Gardendale Magazine - October 2021

OCTOBER 2021

Aningels the

Outfield Special players find joy on the diamond PAGE 17

Serving UP COMFORT New restaurant opens its doors

PAGE 14

Historic

DIGS Thompson House gets national attention

PAGE 22

Design Team

"Where Community Meets Progress"

Coming 2023

• 9 Synthetic Turf Baseball & Softball Fields • 1 Synthetic Turf Regulation Football/Soccer Field • • Playgrounds • Walking Trails • Basketball Court • Beach Volleyball • Pickleball • Tennis •

Discover the thriving city of Gardendale in Alabama Are you searching for a small, welcoming part of Alabama with all of the amenities of the big cities? Look no further than Gardendale, which is situated just 15 minutes from the bustling metropolis of downtown Birmingham. Experience incredible live concerts, art exhibits, and all of the modern conveniences of big city living without having to give up a vibrant, local community.

The Medical Mile The Gardendale Medical Mile is an innovative collaboration of healthcare businesses focused on providing exceptional healthcare and wellness services in the area. The Medical Mile is more than just a destination; it’s a journey that captures the success and development of our humble city.

Quality amenities for locals to enjoy We are proud to have an active community in Gardendale that participates in civic endeavors. To facilitate this, we have created a range of destinations and amenities to encourage local participation, such as: Bill Noble Park Civic Center Kenny Clemons Recreational Complex Ace Hardware

Coming 2023

The Crossings at Magnolia City Place

· A Premier Development for Restaurants and Retail ·

Publix TJ Maxx Panera Buffalo Wild Wings Hamburger Heaven

From enjoying our new park to splurging at our new retail developments, there is so much to enjoy at Gardendale that you will need to experience it for yourself to believe it! www.cityofgardendale.com | Phone: 205-631-8789 | Address: 925 Main St, Gardendale, AL 35071

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Gardendale magazine [ 3 ]

/ Table of Contents /

10/

14/

Citizen Spotlight: Darrel “Camera Man” Williamson devotes his time and talent to the Miracle League.

Dining Out: Kemp’s Kitchen has something for every member of the family.

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12/

Nonprofit Spotlight: Bundles of Hope gathers supplies for struggling families.

16/

Angels in the Outfield: Special league brings more than baseball to the city.

/ Table of Contents /

20/

21/ 26/

Kathleen’s Kitchen: Making wings in the air fryer.

22/

Historic Thompson House: Historic home provides backdrop for television show.

28/

Fall Carnival: Gardendale PTA puts on a show.

Rocket Around the Christmas Tree Trail: New event pays tribute to late resident.

Calendar: Don’t miss these events.

Gardendale magazine [ 5 ]

/ About Us / On The Cover / Who We Are Gardendale Magazine is published monthly by JBMC Media, a Birmingham-based publishing company.

The magazine is mailed directly to 8,600+ homes and businesses within the city of Gardendale, and it is solely supported by advertisers within the pages of this magazine.

Gardendale Magazine is 100% local; the stories and photos are all about the city of Gardendale, its residents, its businesses, its schools, and its cultural institutions.

It’s our promise to you that we will always keep it this way, so that the content and stories are relevant to everyone who calls Gardendale home.

About the Cover Our cover features Lane Kendrick, who is a volunteer at the Miracle League in Gardendale and Daniel Hays, one of the players for the league. The Miracle League of Gardendale was founded in 2009 to allow children and adults with special needs to be able to play baseball with their peers. Over the years, many players of all ages have passed through the program. Currently players range in age from 5 to 65. The league helps keep the players healthy, active and social and gives the families chances to support each other.

Cover photograph by Jonny Hallmark

Our Advertisers

Staff

It’s never easy asking businesses to invest in advertising, so we want to give a VERY special thank you to these businesses. Please, support them!

Children’s of Alabama

Norwood Clinic

City of Gardendale

Village Dermatology

Deo Gloria Wood Works

Vulcan Termite & Pest Control

Kemp’s Kitchen

@GardendaleMag

(205) 617-9609 // P.O. Box 26432, Birmingham, AL 35260

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Rachel Davis Karr Content Director (205) 613-7850, rachel@jbmcmedia.com Chris Shelton Marketing Consultant (205) 541-9663, chris@jbmcmedia.com

Contact Us/Follow Us @GardendaleMagazine

Matthew Allen Publisher (205) 617-9609, matthew@jbmcmedia.com

Anthony Bratina Shweta Gamble Graphic Design

/ Editor’s Note / Wow! We have been so grateful to you for the overwhelmingly positive response to our first issue. We received so many wonderful comments and story ideas (look for those in future issues). Our team has decades of experience in magazines and community newspapers, but we have never seen a first issue garner the response this one did.

The response to the issue reaffirmed what I told Matthew when he first approached me about starting this magazine—the people of Gardendale are wonderful, kind and proud of their community.

For me, nothing illustrates the heart of the people in Gardendale quite like the Miracle League, which is featured prominently in this issue of the magazine. I was asked to write a story on the league years ago and, much like our Citizen Spotlight this week, Darrel Williamson, I fell in love. I went back the next season as a volunteer, and it was always the best part of my week. I remember Retha Ware’s sister, Betty, telling me it had been so good for Retha because when they were kids, Retha wasn’t allowed to go to school with other kids, much less play ball. All because she had Down syndrome. Retha died last year, so she isn’t included it this issue’s story, but I will never forget those words ringing in my ears as I watched her triumphantly raising her hands over her head as she came up to bat while Jeff Dennis announced, “Put your hands in the air for Retha Ware!”

The other features in this magazine are no less special to me. The Historic Thompson House is a beautiful facility with a wonderful story. The new Kemp’s Kitchen offers something for every person in the family. In addition, Kathleen Phillips has a recipe to help you make perfect wings in an air fryer, and you can see how much fun we had at the Fall Carnival, benefitting the school.

We value the input from you, our readers. Please let us know what you see in the community that you would like to know about, think would be a great story or who would make a great profile. We want to be your magazine. You can email me at rachel@jmbcmedia.com or call me at (205) 613-7850.

The final thing I would ask of you is to continue supporting our advetiser and let them know you appreciate them providing this magazine to you. Our advertisers in the first magazine were overwhelmed by the inquiries and customers that came their way. I can’t express how rare and wonderful that is for a publication. Please continue to support those sponsors, so we can keep telling the stories that are important to your community. If you are a business owner or decision maker, I ask that you consider placing an ad. We are reaching every home in Gardendale with out magazine and beyond that with our social media and digital edition, as well as word of mouth. If you are interested in advertising, reach out to matthew@jmbcmedia.com, and he will find a plan that works for you.

Rachel Davis Karr, Content Director

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/ Mayor’s Corner / Let’s Hang On to Our Sense of Community!

Webster defines Community as: A unified body of individuals; A group of people with a common characteristic or interest living together within a larger society.

Gardendale has always been known for its strong sense of community. I have been blessed to live here all my life. As our city has grown, fortunately, we have been able to hold on to the basis of what makes this a great place to live and raise a family.

Anytime that we can come together in fun and fellowship, the sense of community is strengthened. Magnolia Festival, Relay for Life, Food Truck Nights, Merry Market, GES Fall Carnival, and the Christmas Parade are just a few of the many events that we are so thankful to have in our community.

All these type activities would not be possible without the support of area residents. If the people were not supportive and willing to be a part of “community” these activities would not be nearly as successful. People must rearrange their schedules, take off work, volunteer their time, etc. One could easily come up with excuses to not participate.

All of these before mentioned activities are held at city facilities. It also takes support from our local government officials and departments to provide our assistance. The city provides resources that all these activities need to be successful. It takes every department providing skilled employees, relative to their areas of expertise. Also, it costs money to provide all this assistance.

Budget concerns are at an all-time high, but any money spent in supporting community events is well worth it.

Another integral part of a special community is care and love. Let someone lose a child to a tragic accident and just observe the outpouring of love that reaches out to this person in a time of need.

Let a tornado come through, whether in our city or a neighboring community, and you’ll see masses of people jump in and work to clean up the aftermath, show up with food and drinks or just give someone who needs it, a hug.

Community is also not relegated to the borders of our city limits. People in this community don’t just live in the city limits of Gardendale. It doesn’t matter exactly where you live, go to church or what school you go to. As a community, we are all one.

Most importantly, as a city grows, if we as a part of a community are not careful, we will lose our sense of community. Just like anything else, you get out of it, what you put into it. Let’s all do our part to ensure that we never lose what this city is all about. I, for one, would not live anywhere else, and I know that hundreds, if not thousands, share in this thought.

Lots of excitement with good things happening throughout the city, I am the most encouraged that I have been during my tenure as Mayor. We are growing and there is lots more to come. But as we grow, remember, let’s all do our part to hold on to our sense of community.

May God continue to bless our city. Greater things are yet to come!

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(205) 663-4200 vulcantermite.com Gardendale magazine [ 9 ]

/ Everyday Folks /

“If I’ve had a bad day, it makes me forget all about it. You can’t be around those kids and have a bad day. By the time I leave, it’s like ‘what bad day?’ ” Darrel Williamson on being a volunteer photographer for The Miracle League [ 10 ] Gardendale magazine

/ Everyday Folks /

‘Camera Man’ reflects on life of service Story by Rachel Davis Karr Darrel Williamson thought the MIracle League sounded like a great idea when Gardendale residents started talking about it over ten years ago. When the field was finally built in 2009 and the league was ready to start playing, Williamson took the field alongside the players, armed with his camera. Initially, Williamson was one of two photographers at the games, but eventually the other guy started going to his grandkids games at the other parks. Williamson kept coming to the games, enamoured by the spirit of the players and families playing.

“I just fell in love with the kids,” Williamson said. “They’re out there doing something they were told they couldn’t do.”

After spending more than 25 years as a professional firefighter and almost 20 as a volunteer firefighter, Williamson has seen some horrific things, but he could always forget them on the field.

“If I’ve had a bad day, it makes me forget all about it,” Williamson said. “You can’t be around those kids and have a bad day. By the time I leave, it’s like ‘what bad day?’”

Wililamson, who is known to most of the players as simply “Camera Man,” still takes the field every week to capture the moments of pure joy and happiness when the players hit the ball, run the bases or celebrate a new achievement. Those pictures are then posted on Facebook for the parents and players to enjoy. Now, he often brings his own five-year-old grandson who also now knows and loves the players and they know him.

While Williamson loves all the players, there have been some over the years that he really connected with. Many of the players have their own sayings or special rituals that Williamson readily participates in. Some players pose for his camera as they run the bases or play the outfield. Some just want a hug and seem oblivious to the camera entirely.

PHOTOS BY JONNY HALLMARK

Darrel Williamson started volunteering for the Miracle League in 2009. “I just fell in love with the kids,” Williamson said. “They’re out there doing something they were told they couldn’t do.”

When he isn’t hanging out with the grandkids, spending time with his family or volunteering at the Miracle League, Williamson helps out at the Pine Hill Farms, preparing Christmas trees for families to enjoy over the holidays.

Williamson isn’t the only volunteer to visit and never leave. One of the league’s organizers, Sam Kendrick, came to the program to be a buddy one night and never left. Although Covid cancelled last year’s seasons and this year has been restricted to family only on the fields, hopefully buddies will be allowed back at the Miracle League next year so more people can experience what keeps Sam and Darrel coming back. Regardless, the player and families at the Miracle League in Gardendale know they can look forward to always seeing the Camera Man waiting for them when they take the field each week.

To volunteer for the Miracle League once buddies are allowed back, visit The Miracle League of Gardendale on Facebook.

Gardendale magazine [ 11 ]

/ Nonprofit /

Bundles of Hope sets record for collection Story and Photos by Rachel Davis Karr The Bundles of Hope Diaper Bank provides diapers to families who need them for their infants or toddlers.

Diapers are necessary for childcare and aren’t covered by any form of government assistance and are often difficult for parents to acquire. The lack of diapers can impact families in many ways, including making childcare difficult because most daycares require a certain number of diapers for the child to be accepted into the facility.

The diaper bank was started in 2014 after a group of women at Mountain Chapel United Methodist Church were planning a baby shower and starting discussing how expensive diapers were and discovered there was a real need in the community.

In 2014, the group held its first diaper drive and gathered over 3,500 diapers. Since then, the group has held an annual diaper drive called “Stuff the Bus” to collect diaper donations from the surrounding community. In 2021, the Stuff the Bus goal was set at an ambitious 400,000 diapers and the group was able to collect a record-setting 430,197 diapers and more than 90,000 wipes.

As of March 2021, the group has distributed 2.7 million diapers to families in need in the Birmingham area.

They currently distribute approximately 75,000 diapers every month.

Every month, each family receives two bundles of diapers, each containing 25 diapers. That is enough to supplement the needs of a child for a week. While it doesn’t completely alleviate the need, it helps them get the number of diapers they need.

Volunteers are needed at the first of each month to bundle diapers. Individuals, churches or groups can also host a diaper drive to benefit the organization.

For more information on Bundles of Hope, visit bundlesdiaperbank.org, call 205-607-2112 or email info@bundlesdiaperbank.org.

Editor’s Note: Each month we choose a nonprofit to donate a portion of the magazine’s profits. For October, Bundles of Hope is our designated nonprofit. [ 12 ] Gardendale magazine

PHOTO COURTESY OF BUNDLES OF HOPE

Bundles of Hope collects diapers and wipes for families who are in need.

This year, the annual “Stuff the Bus” collection drive set records for diapers collected.

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Better grab a napkin!

838 Odum Road | Gardendale | (205) 608-8125 | kempskitchen.com Mon-Thur, 10:30am-8:30pm; Fri-Sat, 7am-9pm; Sun, 10:30am-3pm Gardendale magazine [ 13 ]

/ Food /

Kemp’s Kitchen offers something for every family

Kemp’s Kitchen offers a variety of meats and vegetables each day on its hot bar.

Story by Rachel Karr Brian Kemp opened his first restaurant because he loved cooking for people. Since he first opened Kemp’s Kitchen in Trussville, he has worked in the business almost every day.

So when he started to notice a large number of his customers were coming from Gardendale, he set his sights on expansion into the city. The new location opening August of 2021.

Although they are similar, the Gardendale location is different from the Trussville location. Both have a variety of meats and vegetables each day and a number of other menu items for // Continued on Page 15 // [ 14 ] Gardendale magazine

PHOTOS COURTESY OF KEMP’S KITCHEN

those who don’t want a meat and vegetable plate. But the look of the restaurants is different and the Gardendale location has a more consistent offering of meats and vegetables on the hot bar, where Trussville tends to do different options daily.

While the hot bar, meat-and-three is what Kemp’s is known for, that’s not all the restaurant has to offer. The menu features specialty items like Keke Fries—nacho cheese covered fries with chopped chicken, cajun ranch and buffalo sauce, the Internetfamous Mr. Beast Burger and other unique items. Regardless of the order, everyone can find something to love at Kemp’s and no one leaves hungry thanks to their generous portions.

// Continued from Page 14 // “I just want it to be the place Gardendale comes together,” Brian said. “That’s why the menu is so diverse—so everyone at the table can get something and be happy.”

offers FitMeals that provide lower calorie or healthier options for pickup from the restaurant.

It’s a perfect option for those trying to lose weight, but who don’t have time to meal prep.

The location also has a bakery where cakes and other items are made in house for the restaurant, as well as special orders for outside events.

These can be birthday cakes or wedding cakes or desserts for other events. The restaurant caters events, and will even be catering Thanksgiving dinner to customers who order it this year.

Kemp wants to be a community member and hopes residents will come to the restaurant, try the food and then give honest feedback. The restaurant also hosts live music every Wednesday night and is planning on hosting a car show in November and Santa in December. As part of that community membership, Kemp’s offers their private room for use to groups for free (although you must call ahead to reserve the room).

For the more health-conscious customers, Kemp’s // Continued on Page 16 //

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// Continued from Page 15 // Although his love for cooking was the reason Brian started the restaurant, it is also something of a ministry for him. He requires that his employees go the extra mile to ensure customer are satisfied and happy during their meal and when they leave.

“The restaurant is based on Christian beliefs and standards, which is a big deal for him,” Kemp’s Kitchen’s marketing director, Daniel Harp, said.

Part of the restaurant’s commitment to Christian

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values is the board at the front of each restaurant labelled “Pay It Forward.” Restaurant patrons can pay for a future meal if they feel inclined and then, if someone needs a little help, they can take the voucher down and have a meal.

Kemp’s Kitchen and Bakery is located at 838 Odum Road and is open seven days a week for lunch and also dinner Monday through Thursday. The restaurant also serves breakfast on Friday and Saturday.

/ Feature /

Angels in the Outfield Special league brings more than baseball to the city.

Story by Rachel Davis Karr A batter comes up to home plate under the bright lights of the field at Luman Harris Park. As the announcer calls her name, she faces the pitcher and swings with all her might. The ball slices through the air and disrupts a game of duck, duck, goose happening in the outfield. Both sets of bleachers cheer the runner on as she rounds the bases. To say it isn’t your traditional little league is an understatement.

Every Thursday night during the fall and Friday night during the spring, a special group gathers on this field to cheer on players of all ages and ability levels. Some of the players hit home runs, while others struggle to hit the ball. Some players run the bases unassisted, while others need someone to push their wheelchair, still others run the bases backwards. All levels of physical ability and understanding of the game are accepted at the Miracle League.

The players also range in age from 5 to 65. // Continued on Page 19 //

PHOTOS BY JONNY HALLMARK

Nolan Monroe takes his turn at bat during a Miracle League game with help from his mom.

Gardendale magazine [ 17 ]

The Miracle League field is made from a specialized surface to allow wheelchairs to roll easily. On a traditional baseball field, players in wheelchairs or will limited mobility would not be able to participate.

// Continued from Page 17 // Every player has a different story. Some

Katy started playing 10 years ago when she

For all these families, the social aspect of the

have birth injuries, some have degenerative

was just 4 years old. Kathy said the first

game is as important as the physical part of it.

conditions, some were injured by abuse as children, others simply were born with different abilities.

For Katy Fleming, she was born with a portion of her brain outside of her skull. She has had growth delays and other issues related to only having a portion of her brain, but her parents are just grateful she’s still here.

“She embodies what ‘miracle’ means,” Kelly Fleming said. “They told us she wouldn’t live to

benefit they saw was an increase in Katy’s hand/eye coordination, but the longer term benefits were watching their daughter go from a scared little girl to a confident young woman on the field. When Katy first stepped up to bat as a four year old, she was terrified and would even lie down on the plate.

Regardless of what she did, the support from the other families, players and organizers kept coming and now Katy happily bats and runs the bases when it’s her turn. Although

be four hours old, much less four months, much

her mom admits these days it’s more of a

less four years and now she’s 14 years old.”

social event for the young teenager.

// Continued on Page 19 // [ 18 ] Gardendale magazine

Misty Love Cowan has two children at the Miracle League. Her daughter had issues during birth and the umbilical cord was compromised. Doctors told her the infant wouldn’t live, then that she would be immobile, never communicate and only use a feeding tube. But Emma wasn’t listening to the doctors. She started walking and using sign language and a special tablet to communicate.

“She is the most determined child I’ve ever met,” her proud mom, Misty said. “She’s defied odds her whole life.”

The Miracle League program isn’t just for the players. The league allows parents and families an opportunity to network and come together as a community. // Continued from Page 18 // Two years after Emma’s complicated birth, Misty had a son, Matthew. While Matthew seemed healthy, they would later find out that he had a rare genetic disorder, fibromatosis. The disease causes tumors in the connective tissue of the skin. These tumors are usually benign, but can be cancerous in some cases.

The disease is normally passed through families, but in his case, it is a rare spontaneous mutation where no family members have the disorder. Misty had only ever met other parents with children who had the disease at Children’s of Alabama, but he is one of two children at the Miracle League in Gardendale with the disorder. Finding another family that’s facing the same fears and challenges they are has been a godsend for the family.

“My kids couldn’t do regular t-ball,” Misty said. “I had no clue how they would like it, but the first game, they were running around, loving everybody and having a blast. They just let the kids be themselves and not be judged for it. Everybody loves them and helps them.

We’ll be there every year they’ll have us.”

Caroline Pernell echoed that sentiment. She saw

a national news story on the Miracle League and thought it would be a good fit for her son, Patrick, who has autism. When she started researching the program, she found there was already a program in her own city.

“The first night Patrick was a little hesitant about this new experience but the team, coaches, and buddies all welcomed him,” Caroline said. “Before the night was over, he was excitedly running bases. This opportunity is such a blessing for us. He gets to be a part of a team where he is not judged or pressured. He just gets to be himself and have fun.”

She also appreciates the support she receives at the league.

“As a mother it allows me to meet and form support from other parents who truly understand the daily struggles we all face,” Caroline said. “The community has really embraced our team affording us the opportunities to ride in the Christmas parades and have privately hosted parties for the team. Miracle League is the best!”

Gardendale magazine [ 19 ]

/ Recipe of the Month / AIR FRYER HONEY BBQ CHICKEN WINGS

Preheat the air fryer at 375 degrees for 3 minutes.

These Air Fryer Honey BBQ Chicken Wings are sweet and savory, perfect for game day food or any party...even if it’s a party of two!

Cooking them in the air fryer makes them juicy on the inside, crispy like fried chicken on the outside. Slather them in bbq sauce and serve them as classic appetizers or an easy weeknight dinner.

Meanwhile, combine paprika, garlic salt, and pepper.

Prep Time: 10 mins / Cook Time: 17 mins /Total Time: 27 mins Equipment needed: air fryer Nutrition: Serving: 4 pieces | Makes 5 pieces | Calories: 434kcal 2 pounds fresh chicken wings (Or 20 flats and drums with wing tips removed) 1 1/2 teaspoons paprika 1 1/2 teaspoons garlic salt (1 teaspoon salt & 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder) 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper 1/2 to 2/3 cup honey bbq sauce (I use Sweet Baby Ray’s)

If the chicken wings are whole, first cut them into flats, drums and wing tips. Discard the wing tips or save them to make chicken broth.

To cut them into sections, slice between the joints with a sharp knife on a cutting board.

Either sprinkle the seasoning mixture on both sides of the chicken or place the chicken in a sealable plastic bag and sprinkle the seasoning mixture on them and toss them around to coat.

If your air fryer’s basket rack is nonstick, you don’t have to spray it with oil because you are preheating the rack. If using a metal oven-style air fryer, you can spray it with oil first.

Arrange flats and drums in the air fryer basket in a single layer where they do not touch. Be sure not to crowd them. You will cook them in batches. Air fry at 375 degrees for 10 minutes, turn them over and cook an additional 10 minutes or until golden brown, crispy and the temperature registers 170 degrees on an instant read thermometer placed near the bone.

Brush them with bbq sauce on both sides and cook an additional 1 minute, without turning. Serve with Ranch dressing or more bbq sauce.

Kathleen Phillips provides a seasonal shortcut recipe for our readers each month.

For more of Kathleen’s recipes, visit her blog at GritsandGouda.com or follow her on Facebook or Instagram.

RECIPE SHORTCUTS •

The air fryer shortens the amount of cooking time by almost 3 times less than baking in the oven.

•

Buying chicken wings already cut into drums and flats saves time but does cost a little more.

•

Purchasing a seasoning blend saves time and is convenient if you don’t have many spices on hand. My seasoning blend uses basic seasonings so chances are you already have them.

•

Purchase a barbeque sauce that already has honey in it saves time and money.

•

Use a Ziploc plastic bag to coat the wings in the seasoning for easy clean up and fewer dishes to wash.

•

This is a small-batch recipe for chicken wings using just 2 pounds. You can double it if you have a large oven-style air fryer and are expecting a large crowd to serve as football food.

TIPS FOR CRISPY CHICKEN WINGS

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•

Preheat the air fryer for at least 3 minutes for best results. When the chicken hits the rack, you should hear it sizzle!

•

Do not crowd the chicken wings in the air fryer. The pieces need elbow room and do not need to touch so the heated air can circulate all around each piece.

•

Be sure the skin is dry before cooking. Paper towels work well.

/ Community /

Christmas Tree Trail provides lasting legacy Story by Rachel Karr When Dick Lee died suddenly of a heart attack in 2017, the city of Gardendale was left heartbroken. Lee had been an active community member and friend to the city and his loss was felt in many areas of town.

Lee moved to Gardendale after college and began an illustrious career in banking. During this time, Lee also volunteered for various charitable and civic organizations in the city and beyond. He also spent much of his time at Gardendale First Baptist Church, mentoring individuals in the community and working to spread the word of God. The Dick Lee Memorial Scholarship Fund was established in his honor, and will be presented each year to deserving Gardendale High School seniors. This year, the memorial scholarship fund will be starting a new event in the city this year as a fundraiser. The event, called Rocket Around the Christmas Tree Trail, will offer local groups or businesses a chance to decorate a tree to sit outside the Gardendale CIvic Center from December 2 through the first of the year.

The organization will provide the trees and set them up at the Civic Center, the group, sponsor or organization just has to provide the decorations and dress up the tree. The cost to sponsor a tree is $150, but there are four levels of sponsorship: To reserve a tree for the event, visit the Gardendale Chamber of Commerce website gardendalechamber. com under the “forms” tab.

PHOTO PROVIDED COURTESY OF DICK LEE MEMORIAL SCHOLARSHIP FUND

Dick Lee was an active community member who passed away suddenly in 2017.

Booster Level 1: $150 Listed on social media, tree setup and sponsor sign Booster Level 2: $250 Business or name of sponsor on advertisement sign, highlighted on social media, tree setup and sponsor sign and two t-shirts Booster Level 3: $500 Business or name of sponsor on advertisement sign, logo on social media, tree setup and sponsor sign and four t-shirts Booster Level 4: $1,000 Business or name of sponsor on advertisement sign in larger print, logo on social media, name on entrance sign, tree setup and sponsor sign and six t-shirts Gardendale magazine [ 21 ]

/ Feature /

Thompson House featured on reality competition

EXTERIOR PHOTO COURTESY OF THOMPSON HOUSE

The front of the Historic Thompson House remains largely unchanged since it was first constructed more than a century ago.

Story and Photos by Rachel Davis Karr Shortly after Jugtown was renamed Gardendale, a home was constructed in the center of town—near where the previous namesake jug factory was located. The home, built in 1910, has watched the city grow up around it. Once surrounded by a dairy farm, the Historic Thompson House is now surrounded by the hustle and bustle of the city. Where there were once open fields and dirt roads, the home is now bordered

by Hamburger Heaven on one side and the city’s public safety building on another.

One thing that hasn’t changed in its more than 100 years is the ownership of the house. The same family has owned the house since 1919 and were its first residents.

The German builder from Cullman never lived in the house, and instead sold it to S. T. Thompson in 1919. The Thompson family never left the house, passing it down from generation to generation. // Continued on Page 23 // [ 22 ] Gardendale magazine

PHOTOS BY RACHEL DAVIS KARR

The porch is a favorite area of the Thompson House guests.

// Continued from Page 22 // The front of the Thompson House remains largely unchanged after more than a century of standing regally on Payne Road, so it isn’t hard to imagine what it must have looked like all those years ago. There have been changes to the footprint of the house since it was originally built. An expansion in the 1980s added two bedrooms and two bathrooms on to the back of the house, but largely the main part of the house remained unchanged.

Gardendale attorney Steven Grimes owns the house currently, his mother Katherine Thompson Grimes owned the house until her death. Many of the furniture and decorative items in the house now were parts of her collections and were original to the home. Some of the furniture is more than 100 years old, much like the house.

Stepping through the door is like stepping back in time, but with the comforts of modern amenities.

The house is no longer a permanent residence, but is now used as an event venue for parties and weddings and family reunions. It is also available for rental as on AirBnB. The house features three separate suites, but is rented as a single unit.

The property’s manager, Cindie Davis, personally ensures the house is ready for visitors who book the home and takes pride in the five star rating the property has maintained on the rental site. Her attention to detail and the comfort of the guests has earned the house’s rating. She personally makes sure the house is in perfect shape before visitors check in—down to ironing the sheets on the beds.

“Hospitality is just in my DNA,” Davis said with a laugh. “I want them to feel like they stepped into a five star hotel, even if it’s just for one night. Our visitors seem to enjoy the experience of the house, and I try to go above and beyond.” // Continued on Page 24 //

The original woodwork surrounding the fireplace and bookshelves in the dining room still remains.

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The historic home now features a variety of sleeping options in the various suites. Guests can use some or all of the home’s rooms during their stay.

// Continued from Page 23 // During the pandemic, the home opened up to house traveling health care workers who needed somewhere to stay. Despite the rigorous cleaning required during the pandemic, Davis said the feeling of doing something to help made it worthwhile.

“It allowed us to give back at a time when the house would have been empty otherwise,” Davis said.

Other visitors have rented the house for events in the surrounding areas like travel ball tournaments, Rock the South, conferences and even for family reunions.

The first person to ever rent the house back in 2017 was a woman who was bringing her dad to Birmingham for the senior Olympics. The guestbook at the residence is filled with page after page of guests who added their special memories to the home’s already storied history. A favorite spot of all the guests is the wraparound porch, particularly

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the screen portion along the side of the house that often serves as a venue for small parties or gatherings.

The picturesque house is the perfect backdrop for photos or events and was even chosen earlier this year to serve as the set of a reality show called “Relative Race” which airs on BYU TV (channel 374 on DirecTV, 4369 and 9403 on DIsh Network or available online for those who can’t get it on those providers). On the show, four teams take a 1-day trip across the country to meet relatives they don’t know and compete for $50,000. The show uses DNA to make the connections between the contestants and other relatives and engages them in challenges while racing against the clock. In this episode, the blue team uses the house as a meeting point for a family member who lives in Gardendale. There is no set air date for the episode featuring the property, but all episodes should be available for viewing online after they air.

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facebook: @deogloriawoodworks Instagram: @deogloriawoodworks Gardendale magazine [ 25 ]

/ Calendar / // October 19 Coffee and Christ, The Perfect Blend at Gardendale Mt. Vernon United Methodist Church at 10 a.m. This is perfect for retired residents or those with a flexible work schedule.

// October 19 Gardendale City Council Meeting 6 p.m. at Gardendale City Hall.

// October 22 Library Ladies Day Out: The Great Pumpkin Patch in Hayden. The group will meet at The Great Pumpkin Patch at 10:30 a.m. and go on a hayride to pick a pumpkin. The cost is $10 per person and the event is for adults only.

// October 28 Net90 5-6:30 p.m. at Buffalo Wild Wings. The Gardendale Chamber of Commerce hosts a 90-minute networking event.

// October 29 Social Cafe: Fantastic Friday Book Club at the Gardendale Library. DIscussion of “Dachshund Through the Snow” by David Rosenfelt. Social Cafe meets every Friday at 10:30 a.m. for coffee, conversations and activities. Adults only.

// October 31 Trunk or Treat at the Gardendale Police Department. Bring your little one (or not so little one) to the police department for the trunk or treat event from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m.

// November 1 Holiday Cooking Show at the Gardendale CIvic Center. Kathleen Phillips hosts her annual cooking show to teach attendees her shortcuts for holiday cooking. The event and live auction benefits the Outdoor Ability Foundation. Tickets are on sale now.

// November 5 Social Cafe: Bingo at the Gardendale Public Library. Call the library to reserve a spot for free Bingo. Small prizes offered. Social Cafe meets every Friday at 10:30 a.m. for coffee, conversations and activities. Adults only. [ 26 ] Gardendale magazine

// November 6 Giant Purple People Saver Disc Golf Tournament held at Magnolia Links in Gardendale. All proceeds go to the American Cancer Society. Register at discgolfscene.com/GPPS3

// November 6 Cinema with Sunni at the Gardendale Library.

Bring a brown bag lunch and enjoy a free movie and some hot popcorn. Call the library for title and details. Rate G or PG Hallmark-style mystery.

Adults only.

// November 12 -13 Christmas Arts and Crafts Show at the Gardendale Civic Center. The show is presented by the North Arts Council. The show will feature more than 85 booths. Friday, the show will be from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. and Saturday from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Admission and parking are free.

// Ongoing The Gardendale Library is currently taking donations for its food pantry. Commonly needed items include: tooth brushes, toothpaste, deodorant, socks, canned foods and dry goods.

Donations can be dropped off at the library during regular business hours.

To have your event or item added to the calendar, email it to rachel@jbmcmedia.com.

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/ Family Fun /

Fall Carnival The Gardendale Fall Carnival is the largest annual fundraiser for the Gardendale Elementary School’s PTA. The event features booths from every class, as well as rides, games, entertainment. The silent auction inside the civic center and city leaders cooking out are also part of the fun for kids of all ages.

PHOTOS BY RACHEL DAVIS KARR

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/ Family Fun /

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/ Family Fun /

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FULTONDALE After Hours Care Natasha Workman, CRNP (205) 250-6424 339 Walkers Chapel Plz., Ste. 115 Fultondale Internal Medicine Dr. Doug Alford Troy Henderson, CRNP (205) 849-9811 1604 Stouts Rd. Imaging (205) 250-6830 339 Walker Chapel Plz., Ste. 101 Plaza Internal Medicine Dr. Kelli Grinder (205) 250-6400 339 Walker Chapel Plz., Ste. 115

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Dr. Robert Robinson Dr. Blake Pearson Dr. Walter Haynes Dr. Elizabeth Kuhn Wendy Conner, CRNP Analyn Blair, CRNP (205) 250-6805 3535 Grandview Pkwy., Bldg. 1, Ste. 150

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Bariatric and Robotic General Surgery Dr. Andrew DeWitt (205) 502-4400 2660 10th Ave. S., POB I, Ste. 222 Brookwood Clinic Dr. Mark Adams Dr. Walter Dunn Jenna Bosch, CRNP (205) 250-8100 513 Brookwood Blvd., Medical Office D, Ste. 200 General Surgery Dr. Raleigh Kent III (205) 250-6068 513 Brookwood Blvd., Medical Office D, Ste. 200 Ophthalmology Dr. John Owen (205) 250-6042 One Independence Dr., Ste. 700 Pulmonology Dr. Karl Schroeder (205) 250-8910 3570 Grandview Pkwy., Ste. 100

GARDENDALE Gardendale Clinic Dr. Fred Patton Dr. Elizabeth Carstensen (205) 631-5671 527 Fieldstown Rd., Ste. C Gardendale Primary Care Dr. Gilbert Douglas IV Emily Snider, CRNP (205) 631-0055 313 Fieldstown Rd., Ste. 103 North Gardendale Primary Care Dr. Alan Hanley (205) 631-2124 2650 Decatur Hwy.

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