A season of thankfulness
As the golden hues of fall settle over our town and the crisp autumn air reminds us that the holiday season is upon us, I find myself reflecting on the many blessings in my life. November, with its theme of giving thanks, is the perfect time to pause and appreciate all that we hold dear.
First and foremost, I am immensely thankful for my family. They are my constant source of love, support and laughter. Their presence in my life reminds me daily of the importance of cherishing every moment— whether it’s a shared meal, a simple conversation or the joy of just being together.
I’m also deeply grateful for my friends, both near and far. Southern friendships are like none other — they’re built on trust, loyalty and a shared sense of community.
And then there’s this amazing town we all share. Cullman is more than a place to live — it’s a community filled with heart, Southern charm and a strong sense of belonging. Our readers and local businesses are what keep the spirit of Cullman thriving, and for that, I am endlessly thankful. Every story we tell, every event we highlight and every photo we capture is a tribute to you — the people who make Cullman the incredible place it is.
As we gather with our loved ones this Thanksgiving, let’s take a moment to express gratitude for the simple joys — good food, great company and the warmth of community. I’m honored to be able to share these moments with you all, through the pages of Cullman City Lifestyle.
Wishing you and your family a season filled with love, joy and thankfulness.
With gratitude,
November 2024
PUBLISHER
Missy Gurley | missy.gurley@citylifestyle.com
EDITORIAL COORDINATOR
Wendy Sack | wendy.sack@citylifestyle.com
CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHER
Lisa Jones Photography
Corporate Team
CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Steven Schowengerdt
CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER Matthew Perry
EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR OF HR Janeane Thompson
AD DESIGNER Mary Albers
LAYOUT DESIGNER Kelsey Ragain
city scene
1: Cullman Savings Bank’s Matt Townson and John Riley with Kelly Hayes and students at West Elementary 2: United Way of Cullman County’s ribbon cutting 3: Katie Brown and Mary Beth Sellers 4: The new Welcome to Cullman sign outside The Flying Fifty Hotel 5: Rhett Brown and William Eidson visit Nelson at Gervais & Lulu. 6: Alfa Player of the Week - Brodie Cobbs! Congratulations Brodie! 7: Visiting Cullman’s cutest couple - Hans and Frieda - the Hay People!
KATIE BROWN
CULLMAN CITY LIFESTYLE
CULLMAN CITY LIFESTYLE
UNITED WAY OF CULLMAN
CULLMAN SAVINGS BANK
KATHY SIMS
KATIE BROWN
8: Steve and Nancy Moore pose for a photo at the Cullman Oktoberfest Burgermeister Ball. 9: The Bussman boys with their mom, Emily’s, artwork 10: Cheryl, Peggy and Brad Smith looked festive at Cullman’s Burgermeister Ball. Want to be seen in the magazine?
NANCY MOORE
EMILY BUSSMAN
Baker Productions
Baker Productions Recording and Duplication Studios has 24-track digital recording studios, video studios, editing suite, CD/DVD duplication facilities, equipment rental and our repair shop downstairs in the building. Please give us a call if you have any questions about any of our services. Baker Productions now has a division that is Baker Pro Audio and Video. This is the audio and video consultation, design, installation and training division of our company. www.bakerproductions.com
Photography by Baker Productions
Hele Bowls
Hele Bowls is a refreshing spot in Cullman to grab a customized bowl with the freshest ingredients. It has mixed its Hawaiian roots with comforting classics with chef-crafted bowls that can be customized to your dietary needs. Hele Bowls proudly uses recyclable packaging for all bowls and utensils. At Hele Bowls, they try to play a role in helping the environment, for a better, more sustainable future.
Smith Lake Rentals & Sales
Welcome to Smith Lake Rentals & Sales (SLRAS), your premier destination for vacation rentals on beautiful Smith Lake. Since our inception in 2004, we’ve dedicated ourselves to connecting property owners and guests in a way that benefits everyone. Owners enjoy the financial rewards of their lake properties, while guests experience the comfort of home with a range of amenities during their stays.
Photography by Hele Bowls
LIGHTING UP THE
'We're so thankful for the relationships'
ARTICLE BY WENDY SACK | PHOTOGRAPHY BY ALABAMA OUTDOOR LIGHTING
HOLIDAYS
This gorgeous home is highlighted by well-placed
“We’re thankful for the love and support of all of our clients. We recognize that without them, we would not be able to do the work we love!”
Locally owned Alabama Outdoor Lighting is in the midst of its busiest time of the year. But first, Owner Kelley Payne took some time to tell us what she’s thankful for this Thanksgiving season.
“This Thanksgiving, we’re thankful for the opportunity God has allowed us to celebrate another year together with our families and friends,” she said. “This year we are celebrating our 20th year of Christmas light installations, and we’re so thankful for the relationships we have built with so many clients over the years.”
Alabama Outdoor Lighting puts that thankfulness into action in many different ways.
“We’re thankful for the love and support of all of our clients. We recognize that without them, we would not be able to do the work we love!” Payne said. “Each year, we invite our clients to our home to share a one-of-a-kind light experience. In 2023, we hosted over 850 people! The joy and excitement on everyone’s faces is our ultimate reward!”
Alabama Outdoor Lighting donates its Christmas light services to 12 homes throughout Cullman. Payne and her husband Nick are also Silver Feathers of the United Way of Cullman, sponsors of The Little Pink Dress and Cullman’s Christkindlmarkt, and Payne also serves on the board of Restoring Women Outreach.
Payne said the holidays are definitely the busiest time of the year.
“October through December is our busiest time of the year with the excitement of the holidays,” she said. “Gutter lines are definitely the biggest request we get when it comes to Christmas lights. We also offer ground lighting, tree wraps, wreaths and garland. Creating a magical scene that leaves the clients and their family in awe is our passion!
“We ‘illuminate’ the holiday season with a professional team that seamlessly
transforms your home into a festive wonderland with high-quality lights and materials that ensure your home radiates the joy of the season,” said a smiling Payne. “Commercial or residential, we cater to all budgets with various colors, shapes and sizes to add a touch of magic and cheer. As nights grow longer, our landscape lighting services also add an extra layer of safety and protection while showcasing homes, gardens, trees or creating inviting, cozy backyards.”
The Paynes are especially proud of the work they do for the City of Cullman.
“We’re a proud sponsor of Cullman Christkindlmarkt again this year. In 2023, we sponsored Kinderplatz where children could take photos with Santa and Mrs. Claus, write and mail letters to the North Pole or create crafts each night,” Payne said. “Wrapping over 120 trees inside the area was the highlight of the season last year!”
One very unique installation the company did was a few months back, she shared: “This summer, our most unique installations were the lighting for Traditions Bank, the waterfall and the one-of-a-kind truck!”
Owned by Nick and Kelley Payne, Alabama Outdoor Lighting has a team of professional installers who will take care of everything for you. They offer an all-inclusive service that includes installation of custom cut LED lights, maintenance and take down in January.
The Paynes have traveled the U.S. learning the newest techniques, receiving certifications and building relationships with manufacturers to ensure each installation accentuates your home’s architectural features during the design layouts.
www.aloutdoorlighting.com
'Consider us your family'
ARTICLE BY WENDY SACK | PHOTOGRAPHY BY HELE BOWLS
PUTTING THANKFULNESS INTO ACTION
412 Public House Owner Stephen Gannon and Hele Bowls Owner and Manager Sarah Morrow
Local favorite Hele Bowls is serving up something from the heart this Thanksgiving!
Owner and Manager Sarah Morrow shared, “This Thanksgiving, our motivation is simple: to give back. At Hele Bowls, we truly care about our amazing community and want to lend a helping hand. We’ll be opening our doors to offer a free Thanksgiving plate and a bottle of water to anyone in need. Serving begins at noon on Thanksgiving Day and will continue until the food runs out. If you have nowhere to go, we welcome you to join us — consider us your family for the day!”
Morrow and crew put thankfulness into action every day, not just during the holiday season.
“We put thankfulness into action by expressing gratitude to everyone who walks through our doors,” said Morrow. “It’s our rule that every guest leaves with a smile, and we go the extra mile to give back to the community that supports us.
On a personal note, she concluded, “This Thanksgiving, my family and I are deeply thankful for our health, the love of family, the support of friends and the growth of our business.”
Hele Bowls is a specialty restaurant located in downtown Cullman next to 412 Public House. It’s a take-out-only establishment that dishes up healthy bowls with a Hawaiian flair. You can choose from a variety of menu options or even customize or build your own bowl, all made with fresh, organic ingredients. Gluten-free, dairyfree, sugar-free and vegan options are available. And don’t forget the desserts and smoothies!
This writer’s favorite dish? The Huli Huli Chicken Bowl!
www.helebowls.com
410 Second Ave. SE, Cullman
Find Hele Bowls on Facebook at www.facebook.com/helebowls or Instagram at www.instagram.com/helebowls
“I was born in Michigan, with family roots on my father’s side in Hawaii. I am a mother of two and I am married to my high school sweetheart. I was the sous chef at 412 Public House and had a great mentor, Ricardo Nishimura. I fell in love with cooking and knew I wanted to be a chef at a very young age. I love making fun and colorful food that is also healthy.
"Hele Bowls proudly uses recyclable packaging for all our bowls and utensils. At Hele Bowls, we try to play a role in helping the environment, for a better sustainable future."
Hele B cated at 410 SecondA
- Hele Bowls Owner and Manager Sarah Morrow
Hele Bowls
Facial
Breast
‘WHAT'S
IMPORTANT TO THE CLIENT MATTERS TO US ALL’
Q&A WITH EDWARD JONES ADVISORS
ARTICLE BY WENDY SACK PHOTOGRAPHY BY LISA JONES PHOTOGRAPHY
This is the time of year that many people take stock of and give thanks for their blessings. The blessing of financial security and stewardship is one that comes to mind.
We had the opportunity to meet Edward Jones Financial Advisors who serve Cullman to get an idea of the company’s history in Cullman, how to choose the advisor who is right for you and what makes Edward Jones different.
Cullman City Lifestyle: Edward Jones has a rich history in Cullman. Tell me more about how Edward Jones has grown here and served Cullman?
Edward Jones: It is interesting to reflect and appreciate an organization operating and serving a community for over 40 years. Edward Jones started with one small office and has grown to nine offices. These offices for the most part have been led by men and women who have not only run a good business, but also served the community in many different capacities. Oftentimes Edward Jones Advisors partner with some of the great community organizations in Cullman and I think the commitment to serving the community has helped Edward Jones grow to the number of offices.
Cullman City Lifestyle: When potential clients consider working with a Financial Advisor, what is important?
Edward Jones: "Financial Advisor" is now a term that is applied to many different levels of financial professionals. It is vital that potential clients understand what that term really means. A true Financial Advisor is not limited to one or two areas of planning. Brokercheck.finra.org is a website that will let people learn more about Financial Advisors and the backgrounds of the professionals they are considering.
Secondly, relationships are an integral element of the partnership between a client and an advisor. Hard questions are sometimes asked in meetings. Hire a professional
A good Financial Advisor can help you make life-changing decisions.
"Trail Blazers" proudly displayed in an Edward Jones office
Group photo: Front row, left to right, are Katie Brown, CFP®, CRPC™ Financial Advisor; Brian Spaeth - Financial Advisor; and Tony Swihart - Financial Advisor. Back row, left to right, are Richard Widner-Financial Advisor; Devin Allen, CRPC™ - Financial Advisor; Brandy Twilley - Financial Advisor; Maddie Shugarts, CFP®, AAMS™ Financial Advisor; Chris Campbell, AAMS™ Financial Advisor; and Chris Mann - Financial Advisor.
“TED'S LEGACY LIVES ON AS WE ALL WORK TO TAKE CARE OF THE FIRM IN WHICH HE ENTRUSTED US. OUR FIRM EXISTS BECAUSE OF OUR CLIENTS. WHAT IS IMPORTANT TO THE CLIENT MATTERS TO US ALL.”
who helps you feel at ease when those questions are asked. Know that this person wants to learn about you and will continue to serve you even after the initial accounts have been established. A good Financial Advisor can help you make life-changing decisions. Do not make that choice lightly.
Cullman City Lifestyle: How would a client determine which Edward Jones advisor may be best for them?
Edward Jones: Edward Jones has provided a wonderful tool to potential clients called "Edward Jones Match." A short quiz can partner you with the advisor in your area who fits your needs. Just like you will
take the quiz to meet us, as advisors, we have done the same work to see who we can best serve.
If online quizzes are not your preference, each Financial Advisor has a bio that can be viewed to learn more about him or her.
Lastly, pick up the phone and call around to see where you may fit. We want to be sure that we are serving clients that enjoy the relationships we are creating. A quick chat may very well help you determine who you enjoy speaking with about your financial goals.
Cullman City Lifestyle: What makes Edward Jones different?
Edward Jones: Edward Jones still gives clients the personalized relationship they deserve. We are committed to partnering for positive impact to improve the lives of our clients and communities. Our Financial Advisors and support staff strive daily to help our clients achieve their life goals and financial security. Every aspect of the firm's business – from the types of products and services we offer to the locations of our branch offices – is designed to cater to the individual investors in the communities where we live and work. Our Financial Advisors take pride in working with a firm that supports and cares for our communities. Edward D. Jones gave his company to his son Ted Jones. Ted Jones then shared his company with the people who worked for him in the form of a partnership.
Ted was asked this question: “Why did you give your company away? You would be a multi-millionaire and one of the richest men in America.”
Ted's response was this: "I am the richest man in America. I have a wife who loves me in spite of my faults. I have four dogs. Two love only me. One loves everybody. One loves no one, but still is very loyal. I have a horse I love to ride around the farm, and best of all, she comes when I call her. I have too much to eat and a dry place to sleep. I enjoy my business. I love my farm and my home. I have a few close friends and money has never been my God."
Ted's legacy lives on as we all work to take care of the firm in which he entrusted us. Our firm exists because of our clients. What's important to the client matters to us all.
Edward Jones started with one small office and has grown to nine offices.
Thanksgiving reflections
What are you thankful for?
ARTICLE BY CULLMAN CITY LIFESTYLE | PHOTOGRAPHY BY VARIOUS
The Wootten family
LOGAN BROOKS, EVOLVE FITNESS
What are you thankful for?
“I’m incredibly grateful for the blessing and opportunity God has given me to make a lasting impact on my community by educating individuals on how to live their best quality of life and empowering them to do more and be more.”
LINDSEY BLACKWOOD, GYPSY SOUL ANTIQUES AND THINGS
“I am so very thankful for Jesus, my family, my business and my customers.”
EMILY
GARRETT, RATTLES & RHYMES
“I am so thankful for my family. Thanksgiving is a wonderful time for our family to gather.”
SADIE WOOTTEN
“This year I am particularly thankful for my family, dear friends, our wonderful community of Cullman and, most importantly, God’s continued faithfulness. We are also thankful to host our sixth annual Friendsgiving Dinner this year as we continue to reflect on our blessings.”
Lindsey Blackwood at the ribbon cutting for her business
The Logan family
The Garrett Family (last year before Hatch was born)
ASHLEA CHANCE, MAVENS & MAKERS
“I’m thankful for nightly dinner with family. It gives us all a chance to reconnect over a good meal.”
LESLEY
HYDE, STATE FARM
“I’m so thankful for family, especially my son. I’m thankful that in the highest of highs, literally us standing on top of a volcano in the picture, to the lowest of lows in life, I can always be grateful and thankful for the love that my family has for me and I for them.”
MISSY GURLEY, CULLMAN CITY LIFESTYLE
“I am very thankful for my family and friends! Thanksgiving is my most favorite holiday - gathering with family is why I love it so much. And I cherish each and every one of my friends including the friends I have met while creating Cullman City Lifestyle. Each one is a blessing!”
The Gurley family
Ashlea Chance and her son
Lesley and Colin Hyde
Pre-Thanksgiving TREAT
ARTICLE BY WENDY SACK | PHOTOGRAPHY BY VINCENT DESNOES
A young ballerina in thought
Classic pose
Dancers in rapt attention
Adelicious holiday treat returns this year to the Betty Leeth Haynes Theatre at Wallace State Community College: Ballet South’s production of “The Nutcracker.” Shows are Saturday, Nov. 23, at 2 p.m. and 7 p.m., and Sunday, Nov. 24, at 2 p.m.
Ballet South Artistic Director Brooke Desnoes said preparations for the production began back in January.
“I have been participating in this ballet either as a dancer, rehearsal coach, director or choreographer for the past 40 years, and after all those ‘Nutcrackers’ I always feel it’s
important to make small changes for every new production. Every new staging must offer the dancers, audience and myself a new and fresh experience,” she said. “Our props are made in-house by a wonderful small team of volunteers and our professional costumes are custom made in Eastern Europe. Each new production should be a tribute to Tchaikovsky’s genius and the beauty of his timeless score. I am constantly reminding the dancers to listen to the music and interpret the music. George Balanchine used the expression, ‘See the music, hear the dance.’”
Desnoes talked about why “The Nutcracker” is so special during the
holiday season, saying, “I usually schedule Ballet South’s production the weekend before Thanksgiving because I feel the show puts us in the mood for drinking hot cocoa, building snowmen and spending time with our families. It’s a perfect opener for the holiday season! No matter how old you are, seeing ‘The Nutcracker’ always brings back childhood memories. Hearing its music throws you into the magic of Christmas.”
If you’ve never seen “The Nutcracker,” Desnoes smiled, “It’s about the power of the imagination and the freedom to dream outside the contingencies of adulthood.”
Tickets can be purchased at ballet-south.org
Brooke Desnoes with a student
Ballerinas preparing for "The Nutcracker."
Younger dancers receive instruction.
Brooke Desnoes, in the background, leads a lesson. Dancers take a break.
Season(ing) of thanks
ARTICLE BY WENDY SACK
PHOTOGRAPHY BY TAYLOR BUCKLEY - PASQUALE’S
Thoughts (and a cocktail recipe!) from Pasquale's
Pasquale’s is back in business in north Cullman, and General Manager Taylor Buckley shares some words about what he’s thankful for this season - and a fun recipe!
“My family and I are thankful for the incredible reception we’ve received from the local community in getting the Pasquale’s name refreshed! I am personally thankful for such an amazing staff that has eased the transition of moving from Orange Beach, Alabama.
“We at Pasquale’s love to support local charities, schools and community outreach programs as much as we are able!
“We are looking forward to curating special pizzas and cocktails that go hand in hand with the special celebrations coming up in the near future. The owners and I are especially looking forward to decorating the restaurant for the holiday season!”
directions:
• 1.5 oz. Wild Turkey 101 Rye
• 1.5 oz. honey simple syrup
• 1 oz. fresh lemon juice
• .25 oz. soda water
• 4-inch rosemary sprig
Step 1. In a cocktail shaker, combine Wild Turkey 101 Rye, honey simple syrup and fresh lemon juice.
Step 2. Fill shaker 3/4 full of ice, cover and shake vigorously until outside of shaker is thoroughly frosted.
Step 3. Place large ice cube or sphere in a double rocks glass, strain cocktail over and top with soda water.
Step 4. Garnish with rosemary sprig and enjoy!
• 1 oz. hot water
• .5 oz. orange blossom honey
directions:
Step 1. Mix hot water and honey in heat-proof container.
Step 2. Stir until honey is completely dissolved.
Step 3. Place in refrigerator and allow to chill for at least 1 hour.
www.pasqualescullman.com
events
A SELECTION OF UPCOMING LOCAL EVENTS
NOVEMBER 1ST - 3RD
Vintage Market Days of North Alabama
Ingalls Harbor Event Center | 10:00 AM
This three-day upscale vintage-inspired market features original art, antiques, clothing, jewelry, handmade treasures, home décor, outdoor furnishings, consumable yummies, seasonal plantings and a little more.
Friday, Nov. 1 | Early Buying Event | 10 a.m.-4 p.m.
Saturday, Nov. 2 | General Admission | 10 a.m.- 4 p.m.
Sunday, Nov. 3 | General Admission | 10 a.m.-3 p.m.
Ingalls Harbor Pavillion, 802-A Wilson St. NW, Decatur, AL
NOVEMBER 2ND
2024 Cullman County Veterans Day Celebration
Cullman Regional Airport | 9:00 AM
Admission and parking are free. Family event designed to tell the story of our veterans and the sacrifices they made to keep our nation free. Huey helicopter rides, free lunch for veterans and spouses, military equipment and aircraft, classic car show, air demos, WWII re-enactors and more. www.cullmanveteransday.com
NOVEMBER 21ST
Cullman County Farm-City Banquet
Loft 212 | 5:00 PM
Live entertainment, a meal and an update on agriculture education. Students of the Year and City Family of the Year. All proceeds from the silent auction will go to Cullman Caring for Kids, Pilot Light Home, Curt's Closet and Good Samaritan Health Clinic. Get tickets at givebutter.com/farm-city24 or Citizens Bank and Trust. cullmanfarmcity25@gmail.com
NOVEMBER 21ST
Christmas Pyramid Lighting & Christkindlmarkt Preview
Depot Park | 5:00 PM
An annual must-see is the Christmas pyramid. Known in German as Weihnachtspyramide, it’s a traditional German decoration of wooden figures that represent different symbols and seasonal elements. Typically the pyramid is hung from the ceiling or set on a small table, but ours is over 40 feet tall and is the tallest one in North America.
NOVEMBER 21ST - DECEMBER 23RD
Cullman Christkindlmarkt
Depot Park | 11:00 AM
This cherished tradition takes place in the heart of downtown Cullman and draws inspiration from Germany’s historic Christmas markets, infusing them with the welcoming spirit of Southern hospitality. It’s a one-of-a-kind experience that invites residents and visitors to join in the festive spirit of the season. Get more details at www.cullmanchristkindlmarkt.com
NOVEMBER 22ND
Christkindlmarkt Parade & Tree Lighting
Warehouse District and Depot Park | 6:00 PM
Join the festivities as we parade through the streets with festive floats, joyful music and holiday cheer, culminating in the spectacular lighting of the Christmas tree. It’s an evening of family fun and holiday magic you won’t want to miss! Get more details at www.cullmanchristkindlmarkt.com
