No'Ala September/October 2010

The Most Beautiful People in the Shoals And a Few Dogs

SEPT/OCT 2010 $3.95

noalamag.com

Ashley Morrow’s Labor of Love

COMFORTABLE. CASUAL. SOUTHERN. Summertime has never tasted sweeter at Bronzeback Café. This Southern style restaurant, located at the Marriott Shoals Hotel & Spa, has captured the essence of summer with new outdoor seating and a casual attitude. Signature cocktails complement Bronzeback’s savory menu, and the Shoals lush landscaping and elaborate resort pool provide the perfect summer backdrop.

For information or to make reservations, call 256.246.3600 or visit MarriottShoals.com.

MARRIOTT SHOALS HOTEL & SPA 800 Cox Creek Parkway South, Florence, AL 35630 MarriottShoals.com, facebook.com/MarriottShoals A part of the Resort Collection on Alabama’s Robert Trent Jones Golf Trail

© 2010 Marriott International, Inc. 2 | No’Ala

September/October 2010 | 3

Color gets attention.

Get attention for your products or services with full-color printing from PSI, the area’s printing experts.

Printing • Office Supplies Furniture • Gifts 113 North Court Street, Florence AL 35630 256-764-8061

4 | No’Ala

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{ contents }

ON THE COVER Pheobee Saye and Mary Katherine Rowe (below) are just two of 34 Shoals residents shot by some of our most talented local photographers. See the feature (beginning on page 24) for more beautiful portraits.

COVER: Photo by Armosa Studios; Hair by Dwight Cox; Makeup by Natalie Faggioni ABOVE: Photo by Robert Rausch; Hair and Makeup by Tricia Hutchison Coble (www.triciahcoble.com); Assistant: Marisa Keris

6 | No’Ala

September/October 2010 | 7

{ contents } 10 12 16 24 58 70 76 78 82

Contributors Calendar Ashley Morrow’s Labor of Love The Most Beautiful People in the Shoals… …and a Few Dogs Once Upon a Makeover A Bless Your Heart Primer Twenty Questions for Jay Brackin Parting Shot

September/October 2010 Volume 3: Issue 5 ••• C. Allen Tomlinson Editor-In-Chief David Sims Managing Editor/Design Director Contributing Writers Juliann Losey, Sandra Poole, Jennifer Youngblood Contributing Photographers Shana Alexander, Stacy Fulton, Patrick Hood, Danny Mitchell, Robert Rausch, Abraham Rowe, Tera and Wes Wages, Shannon Wells Business Manager Matthew Liles Marketing Coordinator/Advertising Sales Amy Martin Intern Juliann Losey Printing and Distribution Printers and Stationers, Inc. ••• No’Ala is published six times annually by ATSA PO Box 2530, Florence, AL 35630 Phone: 256-766-4222 | Fax: 256-766-4106 Toll-free: 800-779-4222 Web: www.noalamag.com Standard postage paid at Florence, AL. A one-year subscription is $19.95 for delivery in the United States.

Signed articles reflect only the views of the authors and do not necessarily reflect the views of the editors.

Advertisers are solely responsible for the content of their advertisements.

Photo by Captured Studios

© 2008-2010 ATSA, All rights reserved.

Send all correspondence to Allen Tomlinson, Editor, at the postal address above, or by e-mail to atomlinson@atsa-usa.com.

Letters may be edited for space and style.

To advertise, contact us at: 256-766-4222, or sales@noalamag.com.

The editor will provide writer’s guidelines upon request. Prospective authors should not submit unsolicited manuscripts; please query the editor first.

No’Ala is printed with vegetable-based inks on 100% recycled paper.

8 | No’Ala

58

Join us on Facebook: No’Ala Mag

GOLD GAMMA AWARD BEST DESIGN 2009

{ editor’s letter }

BY

DAVID SIMS

It’s still in the eye of the beholder This issue of No’Ala is probably one of the most challenging we’ve ever undertaken.

First, the idea of “beauty” is such a subjective concept: it means something different to everyone. Secondly, there is no way in the world that the No’Ala staff is qualified to determine the most beautiful people in the Shoals, especially since there are thousands of residents here who qualify. Thirdly, we don’t want you to think that we’re shallow or fixated on physical beauty—our concept of beauty incorporates the total package.

Earlier this year, we formed a panel to help. Our panel gave us more than 150 names of people from across the Shoals who are beautiful, inside and out; we compiled the list and asked the panel to whittle it down to their twenty-five top picks. In some cases, married couples, siblings, and even the entire staffs of some local businesses were nominated; you’ll see the results beginning on page 24. To spice it up even more, we divided our list among five of the Shoals area’s most talented photographers, and let them take creative license.

One more thing. The idea of featuring beautiful people is not an original one: national magazines do it all the time. People are fascinated by other people—it’s the most interesting subject matter we could think of. We hope you enjoy this taste of Shoals beauty!

In this issue we also profile local Renaissance woman Ashley Morrow. Ashley has created Cupid for a Cause, an Internet dating site where a portion of the monthly fee is given to the charity of your choice. She’s also turned a costume jewelry hobby into a successful business, works a full-time sales position, and still manages to consult on the side. Find out how she does it all on page 16.

We teased you on the cover by saying we were featuring a few dogs and we didn’t lie. Our staff photographer Danny Mitchell photographed seven good looking rescued dogs owned by some of our loyal Facebook friends. If you are considering adding a furry friend, we hope you’ll consider adopting. Contact the Shoals organization PAWS (Pets Are Worth Saving) at www.shoalspaws.com for more information.

Below: I’m here with Matthew, our very own rescue pup (and No’Ala’s office dog)

In keeping with the theme of this issue, we thought we’d do something special for a local Florence couple Heath and Beth Haddock, who both work for area non-profit organizations. They received a little makeover (not that they needed it) courtesy of some of our favorite (and most generous) advertisers, and we documented the fun.

Finally, our Twenty Questions gets a look by talent agent Jay Brackin, and the mother/daughter writing team of Sandra Poole and Jennifer Youngblood school us in the proper use of the expression, Bless Their Hearts.

We’re always on the look out for interesting people, places and things, and the best way to keep up with us is to friend us on Facebook. Look for us at No’Ala Mag and let us know what you’re up to!

September/October 2010 | 9

{ contributors }

Jennifer Youngblood

Sandra Poole

Danny Mitchell

Patrick Hood Stacy Fulton and Shana Alexander

Abraham Rowe Robert Rausch

Juliann Losey is this issue’s intern, and spent most of her time chasing “beautiful people” to interview them and capture their stories. Juliann is a Technical Writing major at the University of North Alabama.

Sandra Poole grew up in Alder Springs, the setting of Livin’ in High Cotton, her first novel, co-written with her daughter Jennifer. Sandra developed a deep love for literature in a two-classroom country school. For Sandra, writing is a continual journey of discovery. Sandra has a Masters in Business Administration and currently lives in Alabama with her husband and youngest son.

Shannon Wells Wes and Tera Wages

With a Masters in Fine Art, this ADDY award winner approaches design with an eye toward sustainability and environmental concerns.

Robert Rausch has captured the attention of clients like Alabama Chanin, Anthropologie, Billy Reid, Hilton Hotels, Ted’s Montana Grill, The St. Joe Company, and Serenbe. His photography can be found in Elle, Travel & Leisure, Garden & Gun, Southern Living, The New York Times, just to name a few publications.

Robert established GAS Design Center, a design and photography studio in downtown Tuscumbia, Alabama.

From her earliest days, Jennifer Leigh Youngblood has loved to read. She is proud of her southern heritage, believing that, “The oddities that make up the southern culture give it distinction.” Jennifer has a B.A.in English from Brigham Young University-Hawaii.

Abraham Rowe has been a freelance photographer since 2005, specializing in portraits, weddings, commercial, and fine art photography. He lives on an acre of land one mile from downtown Florence, Alabama with his two sons, Jack and Malachi.

Jennifer and her mother, Sandra, write as a team.

Though traveling the globe shooting weddings and commercial work, Tera and Wes Wages base their business, Armosa Studios, in the Shoals area. Armosa has been featured in top wedding magazines and blogs and strives for an “unordinary” style. See more of their work at www.armosastudios.com.

Captured Studios offers a unique combination of two local photographers who each specialize in their artistic passions. Shana Alexander focuses on creating “babylicious” newborn images, while Stacy Fulton focuses on capturing urban-inspired senior images.

Working as a team, they always strive to deliver something new and different with each session, and their style becomes apparent in the final products for each of their clients.

Patrick Hood is a commercial and portrait photographer based in Sheffield whose work ranges from arresting images of products to beautiful shots of interesting people. We last worked with Patrick when he was the chief photographer for Bliss Magazine.

Danny Mitchell is a versatile photographer who is recognized almost everywhere he goes, because at one time in his life he took school photos. These days, when he’s not shooting for No’Ala, he’s biking or taking pictures of animals (especially dogs).

10 | No’Ala

© DeLon Imagery

© DeLon Imagery

Juliann Losey

Since 1990, Shannon Wells has been the official photographer for the University of North Alabama, where she also earned a B.F.A. in photography. Shannon is married to Mike Hollander, and is the mother of five children and three dogs. When she is not snapping shots for UNA, Shannon likes cooking, gardening, entertaining, helping the needy, and spontaneously creating stuff. She has been shooting photographs since 1976.

At Cross Point Church of Christ, we believe in fellowship, serving the community, and living for Jesus Christ.

Come Worship With Us

Sunday AM 8:30 and 10:45 • Sunday Bible Classes 9:45 Recovery Assembly 11:00 Sunday PM 6:00 • Wednesday PM 5:30 and 7:00 1350 Cox Creek Parkway Florence, AL 35630 256-764-4073 www.crosspointcoc.org

Upward Soccer Program, which introduces children to Jesus Christ by creating opportunities to serve through sports September/October 2010 | 11

Calendar of events September

Through September 23 Paintings by Roger Dale Brown Kennedy-Douglass Center for the Arts, Florence; 9:00am–4:00pm, Monday–Friday; no admission; 256-760-6379 or florenceal.org September 2-5 Leading Ladies Ritz Theater, 103 W. 3rd St, Sheffield; 7:30pm Thursday–Saturday; 2:00pm Sunday; $10 Adults, $8 Students; 256-383-0533 September 3 First Friday, downtown Florence September 4 First Saturday, downtown Rogersville September 4 Lexington Founders Day No admission; 256-229-9997. Celebrate the founding of the town of Lexington with live music, arts and crafts and a car and truck show.

September 9-12 Dearly Departed Shoals Theatre, Florence; 7:30pm, Thursday–Saturday; 2:00pm Sunday; Ticket prices: In advance: 10.00 Adults, 8.00 for students; At the Door: 12.00 Adults, 10.00 for students.; shoalstheatre.com.

September 11 Celebration: Opening Night at the Huntsville Symphony Orchestra Mark C. Smith Concert Hall, Von Braun Center, Huntsville; 3:30pm; tickets from $28-$69; www.hso.org or 256-539-4818. Includes the world premiere of a work by Gabriela Lena Frank, Tchaikovsky’s Violin Concerto and Stravinsky’s Petrushka.

September 12 Glutzman Plays Schumann, Huntsville Symphony Orchestra Randolph Fine Arts Building, 4915 Garth Road, Huntsville; 7:30pm; tickets from $25-$35; www.hso.org or 256-539-4818. Guest violinist Vadim Gluzman plays Schumann’s Violin Concerto; also featured is Dvoràk’s Serenade in D minor and Beethoven’s Symphony No. 8.

September 12-30 China On My Mind by Painter/Printmaker Conrad Ross Tennessee Valley Museum of Art, 511 N. Water St, Tuscumbia; $5 Adults, $3 Students; 256-383-0533.

September 18 Sticky Wicket Improv Troupe Zodiac Theatre, 8pm; $5; www.shoalstheatre.com

September 23 Gallery Talk by Roger Dale Brown Kennedy-Douglass Center for the Arts, Florence; 6:30pm; no admission; 256-760-6379 or florenceal.org September 26 - October 29 Furniture as Art Tennessee Valley Museum of Art, 511 N. Water St, Tuscumbia; $5 Adults, $3 Students; 256-383-0533. An exhibition of hand crafted contemporary works by master artists Dale Lewis, Graham Campbell, Kimberly Winkle, Craig Nutt, and Bobby Michelson.

September 30 Tailgate Party with Christy Jordan Guillot University Center, UNA campus; Admission $25; 5pm; www.una.edu. UNA is proud to welcome home Human Environmental Sciences alumna Christy Jordan; events will include a book signing, a Tailgate Expo, and a cooking show.

September 30 - October 3 Frankenstein Ritz Theater, 103 W. 3rd St, Sheffield; 7:30pm Thursday–Saturday; 2:00pm Sunday; $10 Adults, $8 Students; 256-383-0533.

October October 1 First Friday, downtown Florence October 2 First Saturday, downtown Rogersville October 1 – 28 Art Expressions: Works by Members of the Shoals Artists Guild Kennedy-Douglass Center for the Arts, Florence; 9:00am–4:00pm, Monday–Friday; no admission; 256-760-6379 or florenceal.org October 2-3 Oktoberfest St. Florian; 11:00am–5:00pm; No admission; 256-740-4141. Each year the town of St. Florian celebrates its rich German heritage with music, artisans, children’s activities, German food and more!

October 2 UNA HOMECOMING October 7 On Stage presents The 5 Browns UNA’s Norton Auditorium; 7:30pm; Admission $25–$35; Students $15; www.shoalsonstage.com. The 5 Browns—Ryan, Melody, Gregory, Deondra and Desirae—all attended New York’s Julliard School, the first family of five siblings ever accepted simultaneously. The New York Post has proclaimed: “One family, five pianos and 50 fingers all add up to the biggest classical music sensation in year….”

Oct. 7-10 Ray Bradbury’s The October Country Zodiac Theatre; 8:00pm Thurs.–Sat, 2:00pm Sun.; $10 Adults, $5 Students—Thurs. Oct. 7 performance: Pay what you can.

Continued page 14

12 | No’Ala

Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Alabama designates Eliza Coffee Memorial Hospital as a

Blue Distinction Center for Cardiac Care ®

ECM Hospital, an affiliate of RegionalCare Hospital Partners, is northwest Alabama’s only comprehensive cardiac care facility, including inpatient cardiac care, a cardiac critical care unit, cardiac rehab, cardiac catheterization and cardiac surgery.

Blue Distinction Centers for Cardiac Care demonstrate ECM Hospital’s commitment to quality care, resulting in better overall outcomes for cardiac patients. ECM meets evidence-based clinical criteria, developed in collaboration with expert physicians’ and medical organizations.

“This designation represents a team approach of not only physicians, but also our well-trained staff, which includes our patient floor staff, emergency department, cath lab and cardiac surgery personnel.”

Dr. William Heaton, Cardiologist “This should be very reassuring to our community that the very best cardiac care is available right here at home.”

Dr. Therese Lango, Cardiologist

Note: Designation as Blue Distinction Centers means these facilities’ overall experience and aggregate data met objective criteria established in collaboration with expert clinicians’ and leading professional organizations’ recommendations. Individual outcomes may vary. To find out which services are covered under your policy at any facilities, please call your local Blue Cross and/or Blue Shield Plan.”

“At ECM we provide specialized, quality heart services and procedures that some think are only found in major medical centers in large metropolitan communities.”

Dr. Doss Cleveland, Cardiothoracic Surgeon www.ecmhospital.com

I’ll help you find that beautiful house you can call your home.

I’m Anne Bernauer and I want to be your Realtor® — for life.

Call 256-740-0706 or 256-757-9008 Paid political advertisement by Committee to Elect Quinton Hanson, 121 Yorkshire Circle, Florence, AL 35630

Email anne@annewillsell.com Visit www.annewillsell.com September/October 2010 | 13

Calendar of events

Continued from page 12

October 9-10 The Tennessee Valley Challenge Cup Regatta Muscle Shoals Sailing Club, 1350 Country Road 411, Killen; races begin at noon on Saturday and 9:30am on Sunday. No admission to watch; to enter, call 256-766-1813.

October 12 A Night at the Theater Florence Camerata, Church of the Good Shepherd, 2001 Cloyd Blvd., Florence; 7:30 p.m.; Adults $12, Students $7. 256-765-4515.

October 14-17 The Dixie Swim Club Shoals Theatre, Florence; 7:30pm, Thursday–Saturday; 2pm Sunday; Admission charged; October 16 Alabama Renaissance Feast Florence/Lauderdale Coliseum, 702 E. Veterans Dr, Florence, 7:00pm; admission charged and must be purchased in advance. 256-760-6418. Wenches and Queens alike will enjoy this authentic Renaissance Feast prepared by world-renowned chef. Participants are encouraged to wear their finest Renaissance attire!

Oct. 23 It’s Magic—International Brotherhood of Magicians Magic Show” Shoals Theatre; 3:00pm and 7:00pm; $7 advance, $8 door. 256-520-5421 October 23-24 Alabama Renaissance Faire Wilson Park, Florence; 10:00am–6:00pm; no admission; 256-740-4141. Voted one of the top 20 events in the Southeast during the month of October, the Alabama Renaissance is a premier event that transforms Wilson Park into Fountain-on-the-Green for an entire weekend. Vendors, demonstrators, and performers will be situated throughout the park for the entire event. Everyone is welcome—especially those clothed in Renaissance attire!

October 23 Rogersville Fall Festival 10:00am - 6:00pm; no admission; 256-247-9449.

Each year the town of Rogersville welcomes the change of seasons with its Fall Festival.

Food vendors, arts and crafts and multiple children’s activities, and live music can all be found at the park during this exciting annual event.

Oct. 24 Mars Hill Band Fall Concert Shoals Theatre; 2:00pm; $10 general admission. The Concert will feature the music of Michael Jackson, Neil Diamond and the Group Chicago as well as a Lion King Finale.

October 25-20 Haunted History Ghost Walk Tours of Florence Wilson Park; 7:30pm; Adults $10, Students $8; 256-757-7506. Local historian and author of several ghost publications will lead you on an enchanting walking tour of Historical Florence, sharing the area’s many supernatural occurrences.

Oct. 26 Will Stutts in Journey through the Mind: Edgar Allan Poe Presented by the Florence-Lauderdale Public Library and Pillar of Fire. Shoals Theatre; 7:30pm; Admission: $15 Adults, $10 students; pillarofire@bellsouth.net.

14 | No’Ala

Choosing a divorce lawyer is an important decision...

Robert F. Smith, Attorney, has more than 26 years of experience in divorce and family law matters. He is a Fellow of the American Academy of Matrimonial Lawyers and past chair, Family Law Section of the Alabama State Bar.

The Law Office of Robert F. Smith A Divorce and Family Law Practice www.ShoalsFamilyLaw.com

521 E. Tennessee Street Florence, AL 35630

256.764.2889 No representation is made that the quality of legal services to be performed is greater than the quality of legal services performed by other lawyers.

September/October 2010 | 15

{ everybody’s business }

TEXT BY ALLEN TOMLINSON » PHOTOS BY DANNY MITCHELL ILLUSTRATIONS BY VUIFAH ILLUSTRATIONS

16 | No’Ala

There are people in this world who move so quickly, and in so many different directions, it takes your breath away. For example, you’ll need roller skates to keep up with Ashley Morrow. A pen and pad of paper helps, too, because the ideas come so fast and they are so varied, you’ll want to write them down. Ashley Morrow has things to do, and her mind works fast.

So it might be appropriate that one of the projects she undertook was speed dating.

“Oh, you’ve heard of speed dating,” she says with a wave of her hand. “It’s where you go into a big room and you’re paired up with a ‘date,’ and a timer is set.” She makes air quotes with her hands when she says the word “date.” “You get three minutes to make a good impression, and to ask all of the right questions before you move on to your next date. At the end of the evening, you’ve met ten or fifteen people and you tabulate your scores to see if there are any people you’ve met that might have potential for a real date—the kind that involves dinner and movies.”

As a single professional woman in the Shoals, Ashley had heard of speed dating but she’d never been to an event, much less organized one. That didn’t stop her. “I am an event planner, after all,” she said, “and I figured it had a pretty good chance of success because all of my friends complained about the same thing—there are just no places to go and meet other single professionals.”

But why just host a party, when you could use that party to raise money for a good cause? Ashley’s friends suggested the American Cancer Society, so she named the event “Cupid for a Cure” and set a date.

There were about fifty people at that first event. It was held at Louie Louie’s at the Webster Hotel in Sheffield, and, Ashley admits, she really had to beg the men to come that year. “Men don’t pre-buy tickets to events like this, we learned, so we were a little nervous…but they showed up.” Big River signed on to help promote the event, they set up tables the length of the room, with men on one side and women on the other, decided to limit the speed dates to three minutes, and the games began.

“Everyone had a score sheet, and all you did was mark ‘yes’ or ‘no’ on your sheet,” she said. “It’s really as simple as an old country song! We discovered that most people knew whether the answer was positive or negative within the first thirty seconds. Best of all, it was fun—really fun.”

And it raised about $700 for the Cancer Society. And, one of the couples that met there went on to get married.

So the next year it was a whole lot easier to pull together. “We learned a lot from that first year, and we had grown so much we moved into the

September/October 2010 | 17

“I honestly believe you shouldn’t spend that kind of money on something unless it’s going to make you skinny or smart.”

ballroom at the Webster.

We also changed the date from a Thursday evening to a Saturday. We found that men who work shift work could come on those nights, and they did—from Alabama, Tennessee and Mississippi! Our attendance the second year was almost 200 people…and a couple who attended and met each other there went on to get married.”

The second year raised around $2,000, and on the third year they raised over $3,400. And the third year, there were corporate sponsorships, a better sound system and acoustics, and…well, you guessed it, a couple who met there have gotten very serious about each other, and it’s possible that they will go on to become engaged.

“So, word started to spread about how much fun this was, and a church in Chattanooga contacted me about franchising the idea,” said Ashley. “I started thinking about it, and you know?

Meeting the person of your dreams can change your life. This all has the ability to change people’s lives. So I decided to see if I could come up with a way to do this on a larger scale and change even more lives.”

Introducing Cupid for a Cause. Ashley’s idea is to move the event online, to broaden its reach, and let people sign up for the online dating service by making a donation to a charity of choice. The participants choose where their monthly membership fees go from a long list of national charities, including everything from animal rights groups to AIDs charities to heart, cancer, children’s charities and more. It puts people together, has the potential to change their lives, and it does it while it raises money for good causes. A launch date will be “as soon as the trademark office says we’re registered and ready,” Ashley says; the computer programming and web design are already complete.

M AYBE PART OF ASHLEY’S perpetual motion comes from her claim of dual citizenship. What she means by that, you will learn, is that she has lived in Franklin, Colbert and Lauderdale counties. She went to school in Russellville until the seventh grade, when her parents divorced, and she moved

18 | No’Ala

with her mother to Florence. She finished school at Mars Hill, and then earned a public relations degree from the University of Alabama. “I always thought I wanted to be a child psychologist, but I’m ‘numbers illiterate’ and there was a lot of math involved,” she said.

“I have a minor in psychology, instead.”

Ashley’s dad is a physician in Franklin County, so she thought she might like to be a pharmaceutical salesperson. While she was interviewing, she took a temporary job at Target, where she happened to run into Shoals filmmaker Tonya Holley. “I had interned for Tonya between my junior and senior years in college. Tonya was working on When I Find The Ocean at that time, and she hired me to oversee and hire the extras for the film,” Ashley said. That and a million other things, of course—independent filmmaking is usually staffed with people who wear a whole lot of different hats. Ashley worked there for a year and a half, beginning her career hiring extras and ending it planning the gala film premiere. “Being in this business gave me the math skills I had tried to avoid in college,” she said, “and the work was different and fascinating.”

The world of filmmaking helped Ashley refine her ability to handle multiple projects at the same time. When that tour of duty was over, Ashley began work in the healthcare field, and she’s been in health-related businesses ever since. Currently, she works for a compounding pharmacy that sells a pain cream that can be applied directly to the skin where the pain is occurring. It’s a national company, and it’s growing.

YOU WOULDN’T THINK SOMEONE who has created a speed dating event, invented a charitable dating service for the internet, and has juggled projects to help make a film would need a creative outlet. But Ashley has more energy than the average person.

One year, Ashley went to Arts Alive in Wilson Park, and she became inspired. She saw a black cameo ring from a distance, and she was enraptured—but the $400 price tag set her back.

“I honestly believe you shouldn’t spend that kind of money on something unless it’s going to make you skinny or smart,” she

“Meeting the person of your dreams can change your life.

This all has the ability to change people’s lives.So I decided to see if I could come up with a way to do this on a larger scale and change even more lives.”

September/October 2010 | 19

says, laughing, “so I decided I would just make my own.”

She did some internet research and found cameos online, as well as the pins, rings and other pieces needed to make jewelry. “I love finding items that are one thing and turning them into something else,” she said, and she is always combing junk stores, hobby shops and the internet for items she will be able to change into some type of jewelry, for men and for women.

She’s a fixture at First Fridays, and reception to her jewelry has been great. “I try to make my jewelry fun, lightweight, and inexpensive,” she says, “and I’m being asked for big, bold pieces.” Her line, called “AMO” (for Ashley Morrow) includes headbands, bracelets, earrings, rings, cufflinks, and more. She doesn’t sell anything over $25.

“I love finding items that are one thing and turning them into something else.”

In her spare time—don’t laugh, she doesn’t seem frazzled at all by all of the projects on her plate!—Ashley can be found browsing dollar stores and junk places, looking for items that can be re-invented as dazzling pieces of jewelry. Look for her booth on Court Street at the next First Friday, see the line at Sassy & Classy Boutique in Florence, or visit her online store at www.amojewelry.com.

SO, WHAT’S NEXT? Actually—maybe a long-term relationship. Ashley has met “The Man”, someone with almost as much energy as she has, and they are spending a lot of time together. Ironically, they did not meet at a speed dating event, or through Cupid For a Cause; he’s not involved in the film business, the pharmaceutical business, or the jewelry business. Sit in a room with the two of them and watch the ideas fly.

And the perfect wedding gift for the groom?

A pair of roller skates. He’ll need them to keep up with Ashley. N

20 | No’Ala

September/October 2010 | 21

{ guess who I saw }

Lisa and Frank Niedergeses, and Barry Williams Randy Coleman, Will, Hudson, and Ashley Beadle Jeanette and Steve Berrymand Jason Simmons and Anna Box

Liza and Henri Hill

Mary Edna Corrigan and Dixie Carter

Don and Andrew Maxwell, Amy Montgomery, Susan Maxwell

Kari and Warren Bailey

First Southern Bank’s Local Color Party JULY 23, 2010  DOWNTOWN FLORENCE

Jeff Linholm, and Vicki and Bill Yuille Margaret Fleming, and Mary Anne, Macale, and Avery Rippey Sheila Johnsey and Connie Roberts Sarah and Nathan Ryan

Ry and Daisy Griffin Jennifer and Glenn Harscheid and Owen Lilly 22 | No’Ala

Fredi Boddie, Christi Williams, and Kerri Stancil

Brandi and Britt Blanton

FUN...We love to make good things, cater beautiful parties and events, and even teach you how to prepare food through our cooking classes. We love food...and we think you’ll love our food, too!

1627 Darby Drive, English Village, Florence, Alabama

256-764-5991

The beautiful “Designing Women Team” at Homelenders of the Shoals would like to salute all the Karen McDaniel, Beautiful People of the President, A.R.M.L. Lic#189498 Shoals.

Susan Beckett Lic#189433

Jennifer Michael Lic#189907

Cyndee Oliver Lic#189908

Lynn Francis Lic#189499

HomeLenders of the Shoals, inc 502 E. Dr. Hicks Blvd., Florence · 256-766-7339

September/October 2010 | 23

The

MOST

BEAUTIFUL PEOPLE IN THE SHOALS PHOTOS BY

STACY FULTON & SHANA ALEXANDER (CAPTURED STUDIOS) PATRICK HOOD (PATRICK HOOD PHOTOGRAPHER) ROBERT R AUSCH (GAS DESIGN CENTER) ABRAHAM ROWE (ABRAHAM ROWE PHOTOGRAPHY) TERA & WES WAGES (ARMOSA STUDIOS) TEXT BY JULIANN LOSEY WITH ALLEN TOMLINSON

24 | No’Ala

PHEOBEE SAYE

Hair by Dwight Cox; Makeup by Natalie Faggioni

BY ARMOSA STUDIOS

Pheobee Saye, Senior Event Manager with Marriott Shoals Hotel & Spa. Majored in art history and minored in museum studies in college; amateur photographer; member of Epsilon Sigma Alpha, an organization that raises money for St. Jude and other local charities and aid organizations such as Safeplace.

September/October 2010 | 25

JAMES FAKUNLE

James Fakunle, entrepreneur. James is a triple jumper (hop, step, and jump), and is training to participate in the Olympics in 2012.

26 | No’Ala

1st Assistant: Marisa Keris; 2nd Assistant: Sydney Prather

BY ROBERT R AUSCH

VALLA BROWN

BY CAPTURED STUDIOS

Valla Brown, owner of Maintenance Plus, a heating and air conditioning company. Loves her children and her pets, which currently include three dogs and five cats, and once included a litter of opossums she rescued from the side of the road.

September/October 2010 | 27

BRITT BLANTON

Britt Blanton, District Sales Manager with Yellow Book. Family man and guitarist with the New Beginning House Band at New Beginning Church; their two annual concerts raise money for childrens’ projects.

28 | No’Ala

Assistant: Susan King

BY ABRAHAM ROWE

presents

The Five Browns

Photo: Andrew Southam

Head-turning Style from

Inspirations Hair Salon 214 Ana Drive, Suite D Florence, AL 35630

Ruth Topete, Owner Nikkole Austin 256-767-1338

Thursday, October 7, 7:30pm, at UNA’s Norton Auditorium Tickets available at the door, at the Kennedy-Douglass Center, or online at shoalsonstage.com

“One family, five pianos and 50 fingers add up to the biggest classical music sensation in years...”

—The New York Post The On Stage Season is underwritten in part by a generous grant from CB&S Bank

MEMBER FDIC

September/October 2010 | 29

ROBBIE AND CHAD BURDINE

BY PATRICK HOOD

Chad & Robbie Burdine; Chad is a drummer with Eyes Around, and a basketball record holder. Robbie is a wide receiver on the UNA football team, the same position his father played. Both brothers love sports and music.

30 | No’Ala

Amy Rhuland, fitness instructor and mother. Her Masters degree in physical therapy and knowledge of food and exercise serve her in her career and as a mom; her amazing singing voice is a surprising bonus.

AMY RHULAND

Clothing by Amy Coats Grice; Jewelry by Meords; Hair by Dwight Cox; Makeup by Rachel King at Revelationz

BY ARMOSA STUDIOS

September/October 2010 | 31

DUSTIN RHODES

Dustin Rhodes, professional mixed martial arts/cage fighter. Dustin played baseball at Northwest Shoals Community College.

32 | No’Ala

Hair and Makeup by Kelly Boyd; Assistant: Marisa Keris

BY ROBERT R AUSCH

The weather is great for outdoor dining!

You never know who you’ll see!

Shoals resident Dwight Cox (r) came to hear Country and Western legend Ty Herndon at The Sweet Magnolia Café.

At The Sweet Magnolia Café we offer fabulous food, a wonderful wine list, and delectable desserts. Come experience lunch, dinner, or a glass of wine at Happy Hour in a casual Bistro setting, or on our outdoor patio. THE SWEET MAGNOLIA CAFÉ – A memory each and every time……….

Reservations accepted but not required

AMAZING Steaks • International Cuisine • Gourmet Sandwiches • Paninis • Salads Wine & Beer • Daily Desserts • New York Bagels • Coffee • Cappuccino • Catering • Private Parties • Event Planning

Look at that beautiful smile!

When you feel confident about your smile, the world sees it more often. At Oral and Facial Surgery of the Shoals, our specialty is all of the things that bring that confidence back.

We perform: • Wisdom Tooth Extractions • Dental Implants • Bone Grafting/Reconstruction • Oral Pathology • Facial Laceration Repair • Facial Fracture Repair • Orthognathic Surgery • Orbital Reconstruction • Nasal Reconstruction • ... and more!

Wish you didn’t have to worry about your smile anymore? Need to discuss an oral or facial procedure? Call 256-383-1499 for an appointment. And smile!

(256) 383-1499 398 Ashe Boulevard Sheffield AL 35660 www.oralandfacialoftheshoals.com

Mark R. McIlwain D.M.D., M.D. Christopher B. Nester D.M.D., M.D. Jonathan W. Frederick D.M.D., M.D.

September/October 2010 | 33

EVIE WHITE

BY PATRICK HOOD

Evie White, Integrated Media Consultant for Comcast Spotlight. Goal setter; Evie works with a personal trainer seven days a week and is in the gym at least two days every week.

34 | No’Ala

MAGGIE SLOAN

BY CAPTURED STUDIOS

Maggie Sloan, student majoring in nutrition. Recently participated in We Can! (Ways to Enhance Children’s Activity & Nutrition), a program to remove unhealthy foods from childrens’ diets.

September/October 2010 | 35

{ guess who I saw }

PHOTOS COURTESY OF TIA JACKSON

1st Annual Shoals Area Mothers and Gents Ball JULY 17  E MERALD RIVER HOTEL , SHEFFIELD

36 | No’Ala

JUSTIN MUELLER

BY ROBERT R AUSCH

Justin Mueller, bartender at Outback Steakhouse and UNA student. Eagle Scout; loves working on cars.

September/October 2010 | 37

ALEXANDRA O’STEEN

BY PATRICK HOOD

Alexandra O’Steen, student majoring in radio, television and film at UNA. Huge movie fan and a devoted Harry Potter reader.

38 | No’Ala

Assistant: Susan King

KRISTIN COVINGTON

BY ABRAHAM ROWE

Kristin Leanne Covington, barrel racer and rodeo competitor. Kristin started barrel racing at age three, and she and her husband own four horses.

September/October 2010 | 39

JILL AND CHRIS BOBO

Makeup by Natalie Faggioni

BY ARMOSA STUDIOS

Chris & Jill Bobo, owners of Alabama Land Services and parents of two daughters. Chris is a swimmer and a runner, and Jill loves to hike; the family spends their vacation time in an RV, touring the country.

40 | No’Ala

You can’t look good if your legs don’t look good. If you suffer from varicose veins, discomfort, leg pain or swelling, we can help. Our techniques do not require major surgery and are completely done in an office setting.

The procedure is covered by most insurances and no hospital stay or time off from work is needed. So if the only thing keeping you from feeling completely beautiful is problems with your legs, give us a call. We can help!

Now in Madison and in the Shoals!

256-383-0423 www.shoalsveincenter.com

Choose a professional who is consistently at the top of her profession.

BABS CAMPBELL 256-740-0706 256-366-3090

256-772-6018 www.madisonveincenter.com

For more information or to make an appointment, call 866-383-0423 Shelby K. Bailey, M.D., F.A.C.S. • William A. Collignon, M.D., F.A.C.S.

DON’T GET WIGGED OUT

The Art of Design René Stamps, Nail Technician and Breast Cancer Survivor

CUSTOM WIG FITTING & STYLING CUT · COLOR · MANICURES · PEDICURES

318 N COURT STREET, FLORENCE · (256) 765-9911

Interiors, Gifts & Furniture (256) 764-1213 or (256) 275-3922 M-F 10-5:30 • Sat 10-2 2575 Hough Road, Florence, behind Cinema 12 September/October 2010 | 41

SANDI MCGEE

BY ROBERT R AUSCH

Sandi McGee, owner, Geronimo Gymnastics and Can You Say Geronimo? Apparel. Sandi is a national instructor, regional and national clinician for USA Gymnastics and a sportswear designer.

42 | No’Ala

Clothing by Billy Reid; Hair by Keith Burbank at China Doll; Makeup by Natalie Faggioni

Joan Leavitt Lane, Jeanne Leavitt Reid, Janice Leavitt Pride. Joan is a dental hygienist at her husband’s periodontal practice; Jeanne is in sales with Billy Reid, her husband’s company, and Janice is a production assistant there. The Leavitt sisters are the youngest of nine children.

JOAN LEAVITT LANE, JEANNE LEAVITT REID, AND JANICE LEAVITT PRIDE

BY ARMOSA STUDIOS

September/October 2010 | 43

BY ROBERT R AUSCH

Mary Katherine Rowe, actress, musician, server at Sweet Magnolia Café. Mother of two who manages to find time to act, play guitar, sing, and write songs and screenplays.

44 | No’Ala

Hair and Makeup by Tricia Hutchison Coble (www.triciahcoble.com); Assistant: Marisa Keris; Photographed at Belmont Mansion, Tuscumbia, Alabama

MARY KATHERINE ROWE

MARECA WATSON

BY CAPTURED STUDIOS

Mareca Watson, student in public relations, Billy Reid intern and server at Sweet Magnolia Café. Loves the water, her family and friends and believes people should “Do what you love.”

September/October 2010 | 45

LUKE MCINTYRE

BY CAPTURED STUDIOS

Luke McIntyre, Florence policeman and youth pastor at Killen Methodist Church. Luke loves fishing, canoeing and his work with the church.

46 | No’Ala

At Hospice of the Shoals, we are a non-profit, community organization.

We were the first hospice in the Shoals, and we have always cared more for the patient than for the bottom line. End of life issues can be difficult, and we understand. If you have any questions about hospice care, we would be happy to sit down with you and your family to discuss them. You have options, even in this stressful time. You can lean on us.

www.hospiceoftheshoals.org

JAMIE HOOD JEWELERS DREAM IT. DESIGN IT. DISCOVER IT.

2504 EAST AVALON AVENUE SUITE A, MUSCLE SHOALS (256) 381-6889 WWW.JAMIEHOODONLINE.COM

September/October 2010 | 47

PAT SANDERS

BY ABRAHAM ROWE

Dr. Pat Sanders, Assistant Professor of Radio, TV and Broadcast Journalism at the University of North Alabama.

Earned her doctorate while raising two teenage children with her husband. The Sanders family is involved in a ministry program to help others on their spiritual path.

48 | No’Ala

MORGAN AND WHITNEY HAMM

BY CAPTURED STUDIOS

Morgan & Whitney Hamm. Morgan is a dance instructor and choreographer; Whitney is a student and pharmacy technician at Hellen Keller Hospital. Sisters and roommates at the University of Alabama; Morgan majored in dance and recently worked as a character performer at Disney World; Whitney is pursuing medical school.

September/October 2010 | 49

{ guess who I saw }

Suzie Yarbrough, Jamie and Christie Connolly, and Liz Irvine Aquil, Dianne, and Myles Lewis Edsel Holden

Serria and Harey Thompson

Beth and Bernie Borosky

Hugo and Norma Villagrana and Family

Curt and Betty Ahrens, and Arlene and Jerry Zuelsdorf Midge Akers and Pat Roden PHOTOS COURTESY OF EDSEL HOLDEN

Edsel Presents the Great American Songbook

The Healing Place Charity Auction and Golf Tournament

M AY 23, 2010  SHOALS THEATRE

JUNE 6&7, 2010  TURTLE POINT YACHT & COUNTRY CLUB Martha Truitt, Lisa and Stewart Cink, Ben Crane and Katherine Anderson

Laura Jane Self and Lori Chapman PHOTOS COURTESY OF MARTHA TRUITT

Matthew and Randy Aldridge Scott Urguhart and Sue Rains

Joel Anderson, Stewart Cink, and Ashley Billingsley

Hugo and Norma Villagrana Ira Butler, Woody Truitt, and George Jones Healing Place Charity Championship Committee

50 | No’Ala

MOCHA MAYES

BY PATRICK HOOD

Mocha Mayes, fitness coordinator at YMCA of the Shoals. Earned a Master’s degree in human performance and health promotions from UNA; devoted to helping children lose weight and live healthier lifestyles.

September/October 2010 | 51

Lindsey & Bart Holt. Lindsey is in sports marketing for Florence-Lauderdale Tourism Department and Bart works for UPS. Both love to cook (especially grilling) and spend a lot of time raising two children.

BART AND LINDSEY HOLT

Makeup by Tiffany Vandiver at Fox Pass; Jewelry by Relique

BY ARMOSA STUDIOS

52 | No’Ala

LOEE MIREE

BY PATRICK HOOD

Loee Miree, mother and sales associate at the Marigail Mathis store. Loee works to promote the humane treatment of animals and confesses to adopting too many stray dogs.

September/October 2010 | 53

HAL AND KIMBERLY HUGHSTON

Hal & Kimberly Hughston, attorney (Hal) and Store Director, Billy Reid (Kimberly). Both love the water, traveling, and education—Kimberly is pursuing her MBA at the University of Alabama.

54 | No’Ala

Stylist: Jonathan Skagfield

BY ABRAHAM ROWE

Annie Marie Irons and Harry Benjamin Ayer, Jr. October 30, 2010

All of the benefits of fruits and vegetables...

Good health is not an option - it’s a necessity. It’s also a lifelong journey!

I’m a Juice Plus+ Wellness Educator, and I can give you more information to help you along that path. Ask me for more information about Juice Plus+ and your good health!

For more information: Lucy Crosby Juice Plus+ Wellness Educator 256-577-8106 www.lcrosbyjuiceplus.com

September/October 2010 | 55

PHOTO BY BUTLER STUDIO

...in a daily capsule.

Bride’s Name: Annie Marie Irons Bride’s Hometown: Florence, Alabama Bride’s Parents: Jay and Carolyn Irons Bride’s Grandparents: Mr. and Mrs. James E. Irons, and Mrs. Agnes McGee and the late John D. McGee, all of Florence Groom’s Name: Harry Benjamin Ayer, Jr. Groom’s Hometown: Rome, Georgia Groom’s Parents: Harry and Patricia Ayer Groom’s Grandparents: Mrs. Grace Mathis and the late Horace Ayer, and Mrs. Alice Johnson and the late Charles Terry, all of Rome Georgia Bridesmaids: Miss Shelly Gerrard of Cullman, Alabama, Maid of Honor; Mrs. Layne Harvell of Grovetown, Georgia, Matron of Honor; Mrs. Erin Atkinson of Alabaster, Alabama; Miss Bethany Inman of Birmingham, Alabama Groomsmen: Mr. Drew Nichols of Rome, Georgia, Best Man; Mr. Drew Evans of Franklin, Tennessee; Mr. Kirt Finnell of Rome, Georgia; Mr. Ryan Somerville of Rome, Georgia Flowergirl: Miss Presleigh Ann Briggs, cousin of the bride Ring Bearer: Mr. Aidan Thomas Churchill, nephew of the groom Ceremony Info: October 30th, 2010, First Baptist Church, Florence, Alabama, 2:00 p.m.

Rehearsal Dinner: Dale’s Steakhouse Reception: Turtle Point Yacht and Country Club Reception Entertainment: The Jeff Quillen Band Wedding Coordinator: Faye Mann Bride’s Gown: Madison Town and Country Bridesmaids’ Gowns: Madison Town and Country Tuxedos: Burch and Hatfield Wedding Bands: Tacori Florist: Carl Casiday for Lola’s Gifts & Flowers Photographer: Butler Studio Videographer: Al Hammond of White Owl Productions Wedding Cakes: The Victorian Tea Room Catering: Turtle Point Yacht and Country Club Hair: Kim Johnson of Kimberly’s Honeymoon: Jamaica Registries: Belk, Dillards, Lynda’s Loft, Target Parties: Monogram Shower hosted by Martha and Bethany Inman, and Shelly Gerrard; Around the House Couple’s Shower hosted by friends and family of the groom; Bridal Tea hosted by Irelle Vann and friends; Bridal Tea hosted by friends and family of the bride; Lingerie shower hosted by Erin Atkinson and Layne Harvell; Bridesmaids’ Luncheon hosted by Hilda Irons

Shane, Ashley & Ryan Baker. Shane is a musician, songwriter, and singer; Ashley is a product manager at Tarkett; Ryan is a wealth advisor with Morgan Stanley Smith Barney. Because their father is songwriter Gary Baker, their lives have been full of music.

RYAN BAKER , ASHLEY BAKER AND SHANE BAKER

Assistant: Susan King

BY ABRAHAM ROWE

56 | No’Ala

Beautiful Treats for Fall

Floral Design, Event Planning & Home Accessories (256) 383-2299 · 214 North Montgomery Avenue Sheffield, Alabama

324 North Court St. Florence, AL 35630 256-766-1568 wineseller@att.net

Offering the most unique selection of wine and beer in the Shoals area.

It’s time to tailgate!

Come find your tailgating school supplies at The Wine Seller.

September/October 2010 | 57

M AISIE We rescued Maisie in 2005 from an unregulated shelter, now closed, where she had been chained to a pine tree in sweltering heat without water, covered in dirt, fleas, and ticks. In spite of the miserable conditions she still managed to flash her winning Lab smile when we walked up. The psychologist Erik Erikson once remarked that families don’t raise children—children raise families. So it was that one might say we didn’t find Maisie— she found us.

Callie and Vince Brewton

58 | No’Ala

PHOTOS BY DANNY MITCHELL

According to PAWS (Pets Are Worth Saving) more than 120,000 healthy, adoptable, loving and perfectly healthy dogs and cats were turned in to Alabama shelters and euthanized last year. Because of that, PAWS believes that there's no reason to purchase a pet from a breeder‌ and, in fact, PAWS strongly advises spaying and neutering to combat overpopulation. Great pets are available for adoption, right here at home!

On the next few pages, we’ll introduce you to several dogs who have all been rescued and are now an important part of a loving home. The stories are varied, but one theme ties them all together: these beautiful animals bring joy to their owners every day. Look into their eyes and see if you agree.

If you would like more information about PAWS in the Shoals area, please visit their website at shoalspaws.com. Donations, volunteers and loving families looking for a pet are always welcome!

September/October 2010 | 59

O LIVE We got Olive from the Florence Animal Shelter. She’s been such a wonderful addition to our family, kind of like we were waiting to find her as much as she needed to be found. Also, she’s terribly smart, but don’t all doggie parents say that? But how many puppies do you know who can sit, fetch and lick you to death?

Okay. Don't answer that last part.

Michelle and Jeff Eubanks

60 | No’Ala

M OLLY Molly was the puppy of a nice lady who had taken ill and who was unable to take care of her anymore. She took miss Molly to the shelter hoping she would ďŹ nd a good home. We had some friends who were volunteering at the shelter at this time who thought she was just adorable and took her home with them. Molly and the family dogs just couldn’t get along, so she couldn't stay. When they decided to take Molly back to the shelter, they stopped by our house. We immediately gave her the name Molly and fell absolutely in love with her sweet little face and personality. We adopted her that day and she has been a part of our family ever since.

Lauren Winters

September/October 2010 | 61

S CRAPPY He was shamefully discovered down and out one summer day on a riverbank on the Tennessee River. Lost or forsaken, we will never know. His fur had partially fallen out. He seemed desperate. After avoiding confrontation with our two very large and assertive dogs, he wedged himself between the door of Mike’s 1978 convertible Volkswagen, and in doggie body language begged, “Please rescue me from this Hell-hole.” Mike, being soft hearted and a sucker, fell for his baby browns.

Shannon Wells and Michael Hollander

62 | No’Ala

September/October 2010 | 63

H EIDI One of my friends found Heidi in Birmingham one night, lost and scared and playing in traffic, no collar or tags. She called me immediately (she knows that I've fostered over 80 dogs and will take in anything in need). When she got to me Heidi was a complete mess—emaciated, filthy, exhausted, traumatized—probably three years old but acting much older. She showed very little personality, and I knew it would take several months to learn what she was really like. So I kept her, fully expecting to find her a home. I nursed her back to health, taught her to trust me, and watched as she and my German Shepherd Karma became fast friends. After the second month I knew she would never leave. She is now the most loving, playful, content, beautiful dog I’ve ever had, and she and Karma are inseparable. Watching her transform is the reason I rescue dogs—knowing you’ve made a difference one life at a time.

Jennifer Highfield

64 | No’Ala

When it comes to the art of lighting, we are the masters.

For example, the Aston Court series from Minka Group; a beautiful, elegant and sophisticated statement that is truly . . . a work of art.

625 S. Cherry St. Florence, AL 256-764-8481 www.sbselectric.com

IV therapy in the comfort of your own home.

At North Alabama Infusion and Compounding, we’re a full service pharmacy, offering at-home IV therapy, pain management, custom compounding and much more. Count on us to care.

North Alabama Infusion & Compounding 2709 E. Second Street, Muscle Shoals AL 35661 800-753-4871 • 256-389-9297 Now serving North Mississippi, Southern Tennessee and all of North Alabama, September/October 2010 | 65

N IKKI I grew up with Old English Sheepdogs and I always wanted one. When my daughter was about to turn three, I learned that a family that moved to Florence from Atlanta had an Old English Sheepdog they could no longer take care of. I called immediately and arranged a time to meet her. When the man opened the door, “Nikki” came bounding out to greet us, giving kisses to me, my daughter, and my Mom. Although she was only three she was (and still is) so well mannered and sweet. Nikki has been such a blessing in our lives—she brightens our home and is always doing something to make us laugh.

Elizabeth and David Sharp

66 | No’Ala

Providing Insurance and Financial Services

Myron Gardner, LUTCF 1819 Darby Drive, Florence, AL 35630 Bus 256-764-2234;Cell 256-335-6080 Email myron.gardner.b17k@statefarm.com

Phil Wiginton 419 Cox Boulevard, Sheffield, AL, 35660 Bus 256-383-4521; Cell 256-762-5859 Email phil@philwiginton.com

Dr. Kathy Warner has joined Dr. Hamp Moore at Tomsik Eyecare Now accepting new patients—call for your appointment!

256-767-5000 318E. Tennessee St Florence, AL

September/October 2010 | 67

J ACK In April 2009, we had a City of Florence Planning Department display at Earth Day Fest in Wilson Park. One of my staff planners took a break and ventured over to the Florence Animal Shelter area.

When she returned, she INSISTED that I go back with her to see the orphaned pets, and "one dog in particular”. I must have told her "no" at least five times because I knew what she was up to!

The end.

Jack and his smaller brother were playing together in a wired enclosure. (We later learned that both had been left in the drop box at the shelter when their owners could no longer care for them). The shelter volunteers were walking all of the dogs and I volunteered to walk Jack, just as my husband walked up with my children.

After a long talk as a family, and several hours of getting to know Jack, we simply could not give him back. We cannot imagine our home without him. He is very intelligent and thinks of himself as one of the children, even mimicking their behaviors such as sitting in “people-like” positions and wanting to be as close to us as possible.

Melissa and David Bailey

68 | No’Ala

3928 Jackson Hwy. • Sheffield, AL (In the old Bike’s Plus building)

(256) 248-4021 Come Check Out Our New Fall Lines Arriving Weekly Purses · Pashmina Scarves · Belts Clothing · Hats · Accessories Store Hours Monday–Saturday: 10:00a.m.–6:00p.m.

Sunday: 1:00p.m.–5:00p.m.

See our ad at TimesDaily.com Become a Fan on

Beauty comes from within.

Fresh, healthy food for a beautiful life.

Daily Lunch Wedding Receptions Rehearsal Dinners Showers Corporate Luncheons Intimate Dinners Parties 256.766.2414

Fall at Frolic!

Clothing and Accessories New Arrivals Weekly!

1326 North Pine Street, Florence 256-766-6150 Tuesday–Friday: 10am–5pm Saturday: 11am–4pm

September/October 2010 | 69

open at 11:00 • monday–friday • 118 w. mobile st. • florence

ONCE UPON A MAKEOVER

Nikkole Austin

A Fairytale Transformation for a Deserving Shoals Couple

PHOTOS BY DANNY MITCHELL » ADDITIONAL PHOTOS BY AMY MARTIN AND JULIANN LOSEY

Cindy

Dr. Matthew Coker

(BEFORE)

John Wall

Dr. Sunitha Madasu

EXTREME SHOALS MAKEOVER Left column: Coker Cosmetic and Family Dentistry provided the most lasting part of our makeover. Pictured with Beth and Heath are (from top) Dr. Matthew Coker, Dr. Sunitha Madasu, and Dr. Tamsie Coker.

Dr. Tamsie Coker

70 | No’Ala

Right column: Nikkole Austin from Inspirations Salon, creates Beth’s new “do”, Cindy Deason from Andy’s the Professionals does Beth’s makeup, and John Wall from Dwight Cox and Associates creates Heath’s new look. Finally, the couple caps off an exciting week with a few luxurious treatments at the Marriott Shoals Hotel & Spa.

H

eath and Beth Haddock have careers working for non-profits. Beth is the Director of United Way of the Shoals, and Heath is the Marketing Director for Safeplace, a local shelter for people who have suffered from abuse. The Haddocks spend their lives working on behalf of others—and we thought it was time to do something special for them.

HAPPILY EVER (AFTER)

With the help of some generous local businesses, the Haddocks got a makeover! John Wall at Dwight Cox & Associates styled Heath’s hair and Beth’s hair was styled by Nikkole Austin from Inspirations. Andy’s donated Aveda hair products so the Haddocks could continue to maintain their new “do’s,” and Cindy Deason from Andy’s gave makeup tips to Beth as she prepared her for the photo session. Tan City donated tanning packages and spray tans, to help the two whose jobs keep them behind their desks a great deal of the time; the Marriott Spa pampered them with massages.

For the photo shoot, Audie Mescal dressed Beth and Billy Reid dressed Heath, with a beautiful man’s watch on loan from Jamie Hood Jewelers.

Dish, Sweet Basil and the Sweet Magnolia Café all gave gift cards so the couple could relax and enjoy meals away from home.

The biggest surprise came from Coker Dentistry, who offered to perform a teeth whitening procedure on the couple to show how effective it can be.

Since the Haddocks both work for nonprofits, their health insurance does not cover dental care, and the dentists at Coker found a few issues during the initial consultation. Not only did Coker Cosmetic and Family Dentistry whiten the couple’s teeth, they donated several thousand dollars worth of dental care, with the help of Rohling Dental Lab, who gave the crowns needed for the procedure. That unexpected surprise stunned everyone with its generosity.

The Haddocks are back at work, helping other people…but the memories of their pampering makeover will last for a long time! N

September/October 2010 | 71

{ shopping }

Plaid Scarf ($95) Billy Reid (256) 767-4692 Game Day Dress ($98) Village Shoppe (256) 383-1133 Black Boyfriend Blazer

by Tulle ($70) Audie Mescal (256) 314-6684

UNA Kids T’s ($15, $16.95) Off Campus Bookstore (256) 764-7507

PJ Harlow Loungewear ($40-$84) Marriott Shoals Hotel & Spa (256) 366-8661 Outfit by Doncaster ($1080) Bag ($495) All pieces sold separately Jean McIntyre (256) 394-3660

72 | No’Ala

John Medeiros Bracelet ($100) David Christopher’s (256) 764-7008

Lotus Bracelet ($35) Sidelines (256) 767-0925

Ultimate Accents Hand Painted Chair ($395) Lyda’s Delights (256) 248-4021

Linen Hand Towels ($11-$12) Village Interiors & Specialty Gifts (256) 247-0998 Recycled Metal Jewelry Necklace ($24.95) Bracelet ($31.95) Andy’s (256) 767-2800 Cyma Watch ($995) Jamie Hood Jewelers (256) 381-6889

Antique French Pharmacy Jars ($40-$100) French Basket (256) 764-1237 Swarovski Reading Glasses ($42) Noble Passage Interiors (256) 764-1213

Wooden Dough Bowl ($160) Halsey House (256) 764-9294

September/October 2010 | 73

{ shopping }

Motion EP by Jenny Ray ($5) The Off Campus Bookstore & Rivertown Coffee Co. & More (256) 765-7128

Agadir Hair Care Products ($20-$35.95) Inspirations (256) 767-1338

Scruples White Tea Hair Care Products ($15-$22) Dwight Cox & Associates (256) 765-9911

Beauty by Nature book ($19.95) Osa’s Garden (256) 764-7663

Alabama/Auburn Platters ($42) Sweet Deliveries (256) 383-3770

Rehab. Assisted Living. Long-Term Care.

Trust Glenwood Healthcare to take care of the entire spectrum.

Sometimes you need a little care—and sometimes you need a lot. At Glenwood Healthcare, we provide top-quality compassionate care, from physical rehab services through assisted living to long-term nursing home care. In fact, in February, 2010, U.S. News and World Report named Glenwood Healthcare as one of America’s Best Nursing Homes— one of only two in Alabama named to this prestigious list—and we’re consistently rated a Five Star Facility by the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid. We even received a 2010 Deficiency-Free Survey.

If you or someone you love is a candidate for rehab services, assisted living or long term care, ask around. You’ll probably hear our name a lot. We are dedicated to quality in rehab, assisted living and long-term care, and we work to earn our great reputation every day. We want to give you a good experience to talk about, too!

• Rehab • Assisted Living • Long-Term Care _____________________________________ 211 Ana Drive, Florence, AL 35630 • 256-766-8963 • www.glenwoodhc.com Now accepting new resident applications for long-term care, rehabilitation and assisted living services 74 | No’Ala

{ bless their hearts }

BY

JENNIFER YOUNGBLOOD AND SANDRA POOLE

It’s our way of saying “Honey, I’m so sorry.

I know just how you feel, and I’m glad that today it’s you and not me.”

Bless Your Heart for Beginners “You talk funny!” These are the three words that follow me around like a smelly goat the minute I step my big toe out of the South. I open my mouth to introduce myself or ask something innocent like “Could you please tell me where I can find the restroom?” and the world stops. Then I get a thousand questions fired at me concerning my origin and why it is that I talk with “such a funny accent.”

Now I’m well aware that we Southerners don’t talk like the rest of the world. While everybody else is spitting out the information as fast as they can formulate the thoughts, we refuse to get in a hurry. We take the time to roll our words around and season them up just right before letting them out. I, for one, fail to see the problem with this way of thinking. I’ve never understood why the world gets in so big of a hurry anyhow (but that’s a topic for another discussion).

A southern girl to the core, I have one of those thick drawls that would give Scarlett O’Hara a run for her money, and I’ve never seen the need to change the way I talk—no matter how much ridicule I get. Over the years, I’ve gotten used to the commotion “my accent” causes, and there’s not much a person can say that ruffles my feathers. However, there was that one time…I’d been standing in line at a fast-food restaurant, drooling over the life-sized picture of the double cheeseburger that was plastered on the hanging menu. (Patience is not one of my virtues, and I could’ve sworn I’d stood in line so long that I could actually see my fingernails starting to grow.) And then it happened! It was finally my turn to order! “About time,” I muttered, stepping up to the counter. “I’d like a cheeseburger, onion rings, and a large chocolate shake,” I said.

The girl just stood there, dumbfounded.

Thinking she hadn’t heard me,” I repeated the order—a little slower this time. “One cheeseburger, onion rings, and A LARGE CHOCOLATE SHAKE…please.” And then I gave her that trademark southern smile that’s been known to take me far in life.

She kept standing there—her mouth gaping.

“Hello? I’m trying to place my order. This is a restaurant, right?”

With that she seemed to shake out of her stupor, and gave me this condescending smirk and then said. “Where are you from?”

I looked her straight in the eye. “Alabama.”

A slight snicker followed by a roll of her eyes. “You talk really funny.”

As I said earlier, it takes a lot to get my dander up, but I had one of those out-ofbody experiences where the hair on my neck stood on end, and I had this primeval urge to jerk this overly pierced girl up by her zebra-striped hair and teach her a thing or two (never mind that she outweighed me by at least fifty pounds). Lucky for me, years of southern grace jumped to my rescue.

“You mean you’ve never been to the South?”

“No,” she mumbled.

“Well, bless your heart! Maybe you’ll get there someday.”

And while she was trying to decide if she’d been complimented or insulted, I took the receipt from her fumbling hand and moved on down the counter.

This brings us to the point in question. We’ve all heard it, and most of us have said it, but what does Bless your heart really mean?

Now, before all of you dyed-in-the-wool Southerners get your drawers in a wad and start hollering that I’m preaching to the choir, let me continue. “Bless your heart” is not something that you have to explain to Southerners. We all understand it because it’s our language. We all know that it has many meanings, kind of like how the word aloha means hello, goodbye, and I love you in Hawaiian. It all depends on how you use it. Like I said

76 | No’Ala

earlier, I used to think that everybody knew what “bless your heart” meant, and it wasn’t until my experience with hamburger girl that I realized that the term could be confusing to foreigners. So, here are a few simple definitions you can use the next time a Yankee or Westerner starts carrying on about the way we talk.

1. “Bless your heart” is a form of empathy. It’s like giving someone a great, big hug. When a friend starts complaining about her rotten boss, her no count husband, and how the kids are driving her crazy, we just shake our heads and look her in the eye and give her a heartfelt “bless your heart.” It’s our way of saying “Honey, I’m so sorry. I know just how you feel, and I’m glad that today it’s you and not me.”

2. When your cousin Susie does something just plain dumb, and your aunt Margaret calls you up to tell you about it, you just listen real close and utter a few “bless her hearts” when she pauses long enough to draw in a breath. That way you’ll both know that even though Susie doesn’t have enough sense to blow up a pea, she’s still family after all, and we love her anyway.

3. In the South, we believe in being polite even if it kills us. So, when we just can’t fight the urge to say something nasty, we follow it up with a “bless her heart” just to make us feel better.

“Look at that poor woman trying to jog around that track. Her rear-end is dragging a trail, bless her heart.”

4. Probably the most important way we use “bless your heart” is so we can identify each other. When I’m far from home and feeling all alone, I just throw out a few “bless your hearts” into the conversation and see what happens. If the person I’m talking to gets this confused look like I’ve just sprouted another head, then I just go on to the next person and do the same thing until finally I hear that familiar twang that’s sweeter than a melody and then come those beautiful words “Well, bless your heart.”

That’s when I know I’m home—even though I’m a thousand miles away.

So the next time someone comes up and puts an arm around you and offers a heart-felt “bless your heart,” you’d better count your lucky stars that you’re in a place where people still care enough to say it. Yes, indeed. Bless your heart, and God bless the hearts of all Southerners!

noteworthy Huntsville Symphony Orchestra 2010 | 2011 Season Celebration: Opening Night Saturday, September 11, 2010, at 7:30 p.m.

Gluzman Plays Schumann Sunday, September 12, 2010, at 3:30 p.m.

From Medtner to Mother Goose Saturday, November 13, 2010, at 7:30 p.m.

HSO Presents An Nollaig: An Irish Christmas with Eileen Ivers Thursday, December 2, 2010, at 7:30 p.m.

Canadian Brass Countdown Friday, December 31, 2010, at 7:30 p.m.

The Red Violin Saturday, January 22, 2011, at 7:30 p.m.

Eroica Sunday, January 30, 2011, at 3:30 p.m.

The Russians Are Coming!

Saturday, February 12, 2011, at 7:30 p.m.

FREE Family Concert Saturday, February 26, 2011, at 1:30 p.m.

Bolcom, Barber and Beethoven Sunday, February 27, 2011, at 3:30 p.m.

Beyond Fantasies and Fairytales: An Evening with Jodi Benson and Gary Mauer Saturday, March 12, 2011, at 7:30 p.m.

Providence and Percussion Saturday, March 19, 2011, at 7:30 p.m.

A Fond Farewell Saturday, April 16, 2011, at 7:00 p.m.

Tickets on sale now.

Call 256-539-4818, or visit www.hso.org.

First-time Subscribers Receive 50% Off! Subscribe anytime—subscriptions are prorated as the season progresses.

Special discount on hotel accommodations at the Huntsville Marriott for No’Ala readers.

Call the HSO office for more information.

You can order signed copies of Jennifer and Sandra’s books (personalized to you) through their website at www.jenniferyoungblood.com.

They are also available through Amazon.com, or locally through Books-a-Million.

September/October 2010 | 77

{ 20 questions }

20 Questions for Jay Brackin, Talent Agent Real beauty…

Starts from within.

Real beauty is NOT… A self-absorbed attitude.

The one thing about this business that still surprises me is…

The lack of professionalism and communication skills.

Sometime it's our first impression of you, so make the best of it.

The one thing we will not tolerate is…

Laziness, and not showing up for an assignment. Those are your fast tickets out of here.

Schools that teach modeling…

Have a great opportunity, but are, in my opinion, not worth the hundreds to thousands of dollars they want up front. All of the ones that I am aware of teach material that is either out-of-date or not relevant in today’s market.

When I’m out and about, the people who catch my eye…

Are the ones who have great individual style and who come across very natural and healthy looking. If it is someone older, I love to see them embracing their age with confidence, and not trying to be a youngling.

For goodness sake…

Pay attention to details!

When people hear I run a modeling agency, they always think…

About the glamour that television and magazines portray. They don’t understand that it's real work.

This business has changed in the last twenty years…

Because of the World economy, Internet, viral marketing, natural disaster, war, and high-profile celebrity.

What people don’t know about modeling is…

That few people will make it to stardom compared to the number who will try.

…but something never change…

Like, everyone has an opinion. So the key at the end of the day is to examine the similarities between your opinion and theirs and make decisions from there.

My worst nightmare is…

The mother who calls to say her six month old has expressed an interest in modeling. I told her to call Oprah because she had a little genius. This is a true story!

If I didn’t do this, I’d become a…

Now that you’ve mentioned it, I’m back in school determining just that.

My dream client is…

Appreciative of the work we do, is open to suggestion, and definitely pays on time!

Our biggest success…

Has been maintaining a successful and well respected agency for over 22 years from Birmingham, Alabama— with national and international recognition, clients, and connections.

The reason your grandbaby probably won’t be a good model is…

Because of Mom and Dad. No, seriously, it takes more than just a cute cooing expression. Let's face it—all babies are beautiful, but even the little ones must have an engaging personality.

And the reason your grandbaby might be a good model is…

First and foremost, having excellent parents. Stage parents can kill a career quicker than anything.

A model’s life is…

Not easy, and and often filled with rejection.

78 | No’Ala

We tell our models before they go on assignment…

To remember that they are representing us as a whole, and by all means be on time and be prepared!

One word of advice…

Never take anything related to this business personally.

It all comes down to marketability. More clients will say “no” rather than “yes,” and it is very rare for someone to make it to super stardom. Do your research and do not get caught up in the fantasy of it all.

Jay Brackin is the Agency Director of Real People Models & Talent in Birmingham, Alabama.

Ironically, he does not like to be photographed himself, so he sent along a photo of his dog, Hank.

Hank Brackin

DANNY MITCHELL PHOTOGRAPHY

PHOTO RESTORATION SENIOR PORTRAITS COMMERCIAL ADVERTISING EVENTS SPORTS INTERIORS PRODUCT STOCK 1712 Birmingham Street Sheffield, Alabama 35660 256-386-0944 (office) 256-627-3056 (cell) www.dannymitchell.com

Member, Professional Photographers of America

{ guess who I saw }

Jane and Roger Haddock Van and Cellie Morgan, Beth and Andy Keyse Sheila and Dennis Upchurch, Caroline Jackson, and Camille Walters

Martha Joe and Emmy Daniel

Virginia Phillips, Johnny Archer, and Gunther Sigle

Rhonda Dillard and Margaret deWolfe

Alice Flowers PHOTOS BY DANNY MITCHELL

Riverboat Cruise to Benefit the St. Francis Fund

An Evening at the Buffler House

JULY 25, 2010  TENNESSEE RIVER

AUGUST 7, 2010  ST. FLORIAN

Debbie Wilson and Alison Stanfield

Sr. Mary Adrian and Sr. Tonette

Caitlin and Cecily Wall Sarah Ware and Charlotte Tomlinson

Carole and Keith Medley Paul Bernauer and Lariat Geronimo 80 | No’Ala

Carol Ann Jent and Mary Alice Meyer

Katie and Susan Beckett

114 North Court Street Florence, AL 35630 | 256.767.4692 | www.billyreid.com

September/October 2010 | 81

UNA VS. DELTA STATE » BRALY STADIUM, FLORENCE » THURSDAY, OCTOBER 15, 2009 » 9:05 P.M.

{ parting shot }

82 | No’Ala BY

SHANNON WELLS

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MEMBER FDIC

Loan subject to credit approval

Problems with wisdom teeth?

Are you a candidate for a dental implant?

Dr. Jonathan Frederick If you’re facing tooth extraction or need dental implants, we can help. We treat many conditions of the face, including trauma, infection, pathology, cosmetic surgery and skin lesions. In our business, we’re not just fixing faces—we’re changing lives. Call for a consultation today and let’s get started!

• Mark R. McIlwain, DMD, MD • Christopher B. Nester, DMD, MD • Jonathan W. Frederick, DMD, MD 398 Ashe Boulevard, Sheffield, AL 35660 • 2126 Helton Drive, Florence AL 35630 www.oralandfacialoftheshoals.com

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