RSVP Montgomery - Jan/Feb 2012

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JANUARY

LEWIS BLACK SATURDAY, JANUARY 7, 2012 · 8:00 P.M. For Mature Audiences Only A regular on The Daily Show with Jon Stewart, Lewis Black executes a brilliant trifecta as stand-up comedian, actor and author. His critically acclaimed act is showcased over 200 nights a year to sold out audiences throughout Europe, New Zealand, Canada and The United States. Lewis’ live performances provide a cathartic release of anger and disillusionment for his audience.

GREGG ALLMAN WITH OPENING ACT JAIMOE’S JASSSZ BAND WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 11, 2012 · 7:30 P.M. A founding member of the legendary group The Allman Brothers Band, Gregg Allman continues to wow audiences. As a rock and blues singer, keyboardist, guitarist and songwriter, he was inducted with the band into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 1995 and received a Lifetime Achievement Award from the Georgia Music Hall of Fame in 2006. Rolling Stone named him one of the “100 Greatest Singers of All Time.”

BROADWAY AT THE MPAC PRESENTS MONTY PYTHON’S “SPAMALOT” TUESDAY, JANUARY 24, 2012 · 7:30 P.M. Monty Python’s “Spamalot” tells the legendary tale of King Arthur’s quest to find the Holy Grail. However, diverting a bit from the true story, this hilarious musical features a line of beautiful dancing girls, a flatulent Frenchmen and killer rabbits.

Throughout the show Arthur and his servant, Patsy, recruit several knights to accompany him on his quest, including Sir Bedevere, Sir Robin, Sir Lancelot and Sir Galahad. Comedy ensues as they encounter all of your favorite characters.

BROADWAY AT THE MPAC PRESENTS “IN THE HEIGHTS” MONDAY, JANUARY 30, 2012 · 7:30 P.M. “In the Heights” tells the story of a vibrant community in New York’s Washington Heights neighborhood, a place where the coffee from the corner bodega is light and sweet, the windows are always open and the breeze carries the rhythm of three generations of music. It’s a community on the brink of change. Follow the characters as they inspire hopes and dreams for the future and experience the pressures that come with it. In Washington Heights, the biggest struggles can be deciding which traditions you take with you, and which ones you leave behind.

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RSVP JAN/FEB 2012

Tickets for all events can be purchased at the MPAC box office on a walk-up basis or by calling 334.481.5100, or online through Ticketmaster.com. For more information, visit www.mpaconline.org or www.facebook.com/mpactheater.

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RSVP JAN/FEB 2012

Luxury Jewelry, Affordable Prices.

Get the girls together and check out some studs.

Pepper Tree Shopping Center 8161 Vaughn Road 334.396.1919 www.charlottesdiamondjewelers.com

14 reply YES Styles and Trends to Consider

Simply Stunning from Day to Night

16 busy bee 18 singled OUT

The 411 on Single Life

The Cell Phone Curse

22 connections Reasons to Gather

Girlfriend Excursions

24 two are BETTER Ideas for Couples

22

16

Coupons for Couples

26 Feature Story Carrie MacLemore..anything but a Damsel in Distress

32 socially SEEN Events planned by RSVP Montgomery

36 IN motion: You Better Shape Up!

38 Look, Listen, Lounge Hot new music, movies, books, places

40 the LIST

40

A Who’s Who of Young Leaders

54 Take 5 Five A New Take on Tights

56 Friends, Trends, Odds & Ends

58

62

58 Now Hear This A look at local sound

The Goat Hill String Band

62 Behind the Scenes 64 when? what? where?

ON THE COVER Carrie MacLemore Photo by Aubrie Lemon Moates

80 resource DIRECTORY

JAN/FEB 2012 RSVP 9

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RSVP JAN/FEB 2012

from the GIRLS The River Region Guide for All Things Social vol. 5, Iss. 1

O

h how time flies! We just closed out another great year, but we have even bigger plans for 2012. Along with our regular bi-monthly issues, we will have two special editions this year including our very first wedding issue. If you will soon be wed, make sure to contact us for information on how to feature your engagement or wedding. We will also be introducing several exciting features including “Table Talk,” which made its debut in this issue. We have energetic new writers, bright ideas and plans to create more enthusiasm and awareness for all Montgomery has to offer.

Speaking of success, our cover story is just that. Trinity graduate Carrie MacLemore turned New York Actress will be starring in a motion picture that will hit theatres everywhere this March. Enjoy this endearing feature about the girl next door who holds strong to her beliefs while never giving up on her dreams. We compliment her on her achievement on the red carpet and congratulate her on her recent marriage to another Montgomery native.

Valentine’s Day is right around the corner, and we have several great ideas for couples as well as promotions you will find throughout the ads placed in this issue. On the other hand, if you are a single person who thinks “love stinks” and would rather skip February 14 altogether, don’t fret! We have something for you, too!

Absorb all the great info in this issue but don’t stop there. Visit our website and sign up for our email blast so you can stay informed of weekly specials, promotions and area happenings. Thank you for being a loyal reader and for starting another year with us. Cheers!

YOU CAN’T MAKE MUCH DIFFERENCE

FROM THE SIDELINE Our earliest students came to TROY to learn how to lead others. Today, our degree programs continue to attract those looking for careers shaping a life Brett Wilson Group Publisher, Parade Magazine Troy University Alumnus

of purpose... such as business.

If it is in your nature to contribute to the greater community, you’ll find a culture here that knows how to nurture that spirit.

Troy University is not for everybody... it is for those who want to become somebody.

Educate the mind to think, the heart to feel, the body to act.

- TROY Motto 1887

“Ranked Among Top Schools in the Nation” - Forbes Magazine “One of the Best in the Southeast” - Princeton Review

In class • Online • Within reach • troy.edu • Find us on:

Simply Stunning Simply Stunning from day to night Simply Stunning from day to night reply YES

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JAN/FEB 2012 RSVP 15

It’s the New Year and spending less or getting out of debt created by holiday spending is always among the most popular New Year’s Resolutions.

Here are some simple ways to save money without suggesting you live like a pauper or freeze your wallet in a block of ice.

By Kim Traff

Illustration by Christie Schmitz

1. Take a closer look at your taxes.

Before you even start looking elsewhere in your budget to cut costs, start at the source with your paycheck. If you get a tax refund, that means you're overpaying Uncle Sam from the beginning. Boost your take-home pay today by adjusting your tax withholding with your employer. Adding to your take home each week will help.

2. Cook at home.

Busy people tend to have a difficult time planning and preparing meals. When going to the grocery store for your ingredients, make a list. Without a list you will buy items that you simply do not need. It’s even worse when you forget to purchase the actual item you came to the store for in the first place. Couponbug.com will have coupons for about half the items on your list. I saved $32 with coupons on my last trip, and no telling how much by cooking at home instead of eating out.

3. Go family style.

If you refuse to cook at home and don’t plan to take the advice of tip #2, consider these tips.

Most restaurants give huge portions, so consider eating family style and sharing entrees. You’ll save on cost and calories and won’t need that to-go box that you will probably forget at the restaurant anyway. Before you choose your restaurant, check out dealchicken.com or restaurant.com where you can buy coupons that will save you 50-90% on local restaurants and entertainment. Slowing down and taking the time to do a little research can save you several bucks.

4. Brown bag lunch a few days a week.

The average person spends $40 per week eating out for lunch.

For some it is an opportunity to network and improve your career growth and for busy bees, it is lack of time or planning which results in take out and fast food. Find a balance between saving money and making the connection. Taking five minutes out of your hectic morning to make a sandwich will make a difference in your wallet.

5. Disconnect your land line if possible.

Unless you have small kids in the house or older people to take care of, it is more than likely that you will be able to survive with only the mobile phones and can get rid of the land line.

You are paying for unlimited use on your cell so why not use it in your house, too? You can get your Internet via cable.

GDH

Gulf Distributing Holdings, L.L.C.

singled OUT

The Cell

PH O NE Curse

By Mark Anderson

I have been dating a delightful young woman for several weeks now, and to this date, her number currently resides on a slip of paper in my wallet…where it shall remain. There is a simple reason for this – my cell phone is cursed.

The only females to remain in my cell phone beyond the contract renewal date are my mother and a couple female cousins. The entry of a girl’s number into my phone leads to her almost immediate departure from my life. You may consider this simple superstition, paranoia or the early signs of mental degeneration, but the track record speaks for itself.

Laila: Cell Phone Survival Time: 38 hours 36

minutes delete (one month hiatus) 41 hours 10 minutes delete, again.

Ok, this one is completely my fault. Note to self: don’t put a girl’s number in your speed dial when you get it after a somewhat boozy kiss in the parking lot of your favorite watering hole. And by all means, don’t do it twice with the same girl! The first delete was easy; she failed the three shot rule (two calls, one text without reply), but then I run into her again and the same thing happens.

Same bar, same parking lot, but of course, being the one

man brain trust I am, I think to myself, “Well maybe this time it’s for real.” Shocker… it wasn’t. Three and out again. A man’s capacity to make an idiot of himself is at times boundless. Final note: very few great love stories begin with, “Remember the first time you kissed me in that parking lot?”

Kiki: Cell Phone Survival Time: 3 days 2 hours 14 minutes and the length of what I recall as one of the longest, most awkward dinners ever known to mankind.

Although few will admit it, online dating is at the top of the list for single people when they get fed up with the traditional dating process. If you were to Google “online dating quotes,” you should get about a thousand results for “it seemed like a good idea at the time.” Confession time, I tried it and it was not a good idea. Note to self: in today’s electronic age, it is far too easy to create a persona that is an altered version of reality. Example: I had several telephone conversations with one of my matches and she invites me over to her house for dinner. I, of course, think wow, that is really nice of her, not realizing that this is also what people on parole and serving a one year drivers license suspension do for dates. So she sends me her address, I GPS it, and I head out to meet her. As

I pull into her neighborhood littered with derelict cars being used as lawn ornaments, I begin to get an inkling that this may not go as well as I hoped. Unfortunately, before I can successfully execute a U-turn, there she is, in all her glory, sitting on an old couch serving as makeshift patio furniture. At this point I learn a fundamental rule of online dating: ignore the caption, if her profile picture contains more than one person, she is always the homeliest one in the photo. Non-coincidentally, this incident also led to me deleting my online dating account.

Annie: Cell Phone Survival Time:

approximately however long it takes to climb out a window and flee the scene.

The best part of playing softball is having a few beers with the team after (and sometimes before) our games.

Although I rarely need an excuse to drink beer, this is one of the main reasons I play. So I am there and meet a girl looking super cute in her softball uniform. We hit it off, and (even though at this point you are probably thinking I should know better) I promptly enter her number in my phone. It is only after this that she tells me, “You know I have a boyfriend.” Immediately following my momentary contemplation as to why she believes me to have ESP, she follows up with, “Uh oh, here he is. You better go,” indicating the fellow squeezing himself through the front door of the sports bar. Up until this point in my life, I had been entirely unaware that my local community softball league had a mountain gorilla division. Needless to say, I am now entirely in agreement with her opinion that I should be amongst the departed. Thank goodness the restrooms had large windows.

Zena: iPhone Survival Time: 1 minute

Caveat, I am terrible at telling a girl’s age, so this one was not entirely my fault. I’m out on the town and meet this simply stunning and really cool girl, who is out with one of my good female friends; we have mutual friends and hit if off very well. I, of course, get her number and rashly enter it into my phone. The back story here is that earlier that night I said hello to one of my older brother’s good friends who is about a decade or so my senior. So, of bloody course, he walks up 56 seconds after I put down the phone and she greets him with a big smile and a “Hey daddy!”…delete.

Epilogue: I started this column three weeks ago. The “delightful young woman” is now starting to give me those “he might just be fixable” looks accompanied by roughly 10 calls a day just to “check in.” Sooo, let’s give this theory one more test drive. Where’s my cell phone?

Add to Contacts: Scarlett: 334-555-…

JAN/FEB 2012 RSVP 19

connections

Girlfriend Excursions

By Amanda McCoy

In the last Connections, we were treated to a hilarious depiction of Guy’s Night Out by the ultra witty Mark Anderson, but there was one important fallacy…the notion that Girl’s Night Out is tame and unexciting in comparison. The girls have a bone to pick.

Guys seem to hold two basic misconceptions about an evening with the girls: 1.) A group gathered at a spa or nail salon, endlessly discussing makeup and shoes or complaining about our man’s video game obsession.

2.) Inappropriate pillow fights.

I’m not saying that we never assemble for small plates and appletinis or don’t relish the occasional spa day, but boys, don’t underestimate Girl’s Night Out. All-you-can-eat salad? Not a chance. We might not partake in any contests involving bodily functions or punch each other excessively for no apparent reason, but we do know a thing or two about a night out.

It’s an excursion all women value. A brief escape that keeps sanity intact for the woman rushing home after her night shift at the hospital to feed her son breakfast; for the woman, coffee in hand, braving the rush hour commute for a 10 hour day at the office; for the woman dually completing her marketing dissertation and dinner for the family; or merely for the woman that quite

simply, just needs a break. Cyndi Lauper said it best, girls just want to have fun…

In the past, Montgomery based women were required to plan an out-of-town getaway to the sandy shores of the gulf or the streets of Atlanta for a successful Girl’s Night Out. Luckily, this is no longer the case; our city now encompasses a surplus of offerings for the female on the hunt for a night to remember.

Whether it’s one of the city’s trendy watering holes, dance clubs, upscale dining destinations or merely a living room turned temporary bachelorette pad, there’s always a place to have mandatory femaleonly time.

Married, single or somewhere in between, we as women savor this time together. Debunking the myth, we do not spend the entire night pouring out feelings and consoling one another. Really guys…have you seen the movie “Bridesmaids”?

Rowdy female behavior isn’t limited to the cinema. It’s our chance to ease any apprehension about what the men in our lives think of our “unladylike” behavior; a chance to unwind from the stresses of everyday life; a chance to remember just why the bond of sisterhood is so sacred.

Although we love our happily attached counterparts, if you find yourself without a man this Valentine’s Day, join a few of the RSVP girls for a “Love Stinks” party! Complete with a piñata, cocktails and bonfire, this will be a night to celebrate our singlehood!

Location TBA – call us for more details.

two are BETTER

forfor

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for

By Lindsey Henig

nce you’ve been dating or married for a certain number of years, being creative for Valentine’s Day can prove a bit tricky. We’ve been down the road of roses and wine, a night in an extravagant hotel, dinner and a movie. Ho…Hum…. (Insert yawn).

So this year we decided to recommend something for your special someone that’s a little more homemade.

I’m not talking construction paper hearts, but rather something that will feel like an absolute treat. Since we’re in the age of extreme couponing, we felt it only appropriate to bring that into the most romantic day of the year! Here are a few suggestions for coupons for him, and some for her too, that will give a little something special to the day on which you choose to redeem each one. It’s the perfect way to help stretch Valentine’s Day and keep that love flame-a-flickering!

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For Him

• Man movie: Let’s face it, every time you hit the Rave it’s a chick flick. Just this once, grin and bare it through the manliest movie in theaters so he can see what he really wanted to watch.

• Saturday showdown: Let him invite a few of his buddies over for a football, beer and barbeque Saturday.

This involves letting him be hands off with kids or around the house duties for long enough to clear the cooler and let the grill cool down.

• Yard man: ‘Tis the season for massive amounts of leaves and debris to pile up in your yard. Surprise him one weekend by hiring a yard expert to come and detail the lawn so he doesn’t have to. He’ll love getting rid of that honey-do list!

• Weekend getaway: The one thing most dads crave is guy time. Take the little ones to your parents and send him off to the lake with his buddies and let him recharge his batteries. I can guarantee he’ll be beating down the door Sunday afternoon to get to the kids!

For Her

• Dinner duty: What busy mom or wife wouldn’t love an entire week of someone else being on dinner duty? No worrying with groceries or recipes for just one week does a world of good for us moms.

• Car wash, detail and fill up: As simple as it sounds, there is something about a clean car (inside and out) that makes you feel like you can face the week with confidence! Get her week started off on the right foot with a car that can drive to work, ballet and soccer practice looking sparkly and new!

• Preschool pickup: Why is preschool only four short hours?! It’s amazing what more a mom can get done if someone else could pick up and bring home that busy preschooler. Take your lunch break to bring them home for a week straight, and watch every chore on her list get crossed off.

• Saturday to herself: Whether you’re a working mom or the CEO of your own household, you’re working harder than you ever have trying to balance it all.

Letting her out of all those duties for just one day of the week will refresh her like an entire week’s vacation can. So take the kids to the zoo for the day, and let her relax.

JAN/FEB 2012 RSVP 25

arrie C MacLemore... anything but a Damsel in Distress

By Amanda Morrison

S

ome girls dream of becoming a movie star. Some girls dream of becoming a bride. For Carrie MacLemore, this was the year she achieved both, and unlike the title of her first feature film, she is far from a Damsel in Distress.

This soft spoken Southern belle, now New York actor, was born in Brandon, Mississippi and moved to Montgomery with her family as a pre-teen.

Even before her days as a student at Trinity Presbyterian, she developed a passion for acting. Movies like My Fair Lady captivated this young brunette’s imagination as early as age six, but it was a viewing of independent film Best in Show at the Capri Theatre in Cloverdale that inspired her to uproot and finish her schooling in New York City.

With the support of her parents, she studied acting at prestigious institutions including New York’s T. Schreiber Studio with Peter Miner. Carrie landed guest appearances on hit television shows including Gossip Girl, Law and Order: Special Victims Unit and The Guiding Light.

It was a unique audition that garnered Carrie a featured role in her first film debut, Damsels in Distress. The petite-framed actress delivered a solid reading and grabbed the attention of Oscarnominated director Whit Stillman.

“It is rare for the writer/director to be in the room so early on in the auditions,” she further explained.

“As I was reading my lines I could see him mouthing the words.”

Many up-and-coming actors would have been caught off guard under these circumstances, but Carrie found his presence in the room to be a source of inspiration. She connected with his rare brand of humor and passion for his creation, and while she left with a good feeling, with the chance of rejection ever present, she tried hard not to think about it.

Elated yet composed, Carrie received a call back for her second Damsels audition. She read for a different part, and while it is common for roles to be shuffled around, she soon learned this was not a typical second round. In fact, it concluded with

directives for wardrobe fittings and rehearsal schedules, which led the unassuming Carrie to ask a very important question: “Does this mean I got the part?”

To her joy, she did. As Whit Stillman returned to the director’s chair for the first time in 13 years, he chose Alabama’s Carrie MacLemore to play the role of Heather; the gorgeous pal of four female undergrads. Damsels in Distress is a comedy centered on the trials of this collegiate foursome who become fast friends and seek to make life better for the entire student body. The film debuted to rave reviews at both The Venice Film Festival and The Toronto International Film Festival.

Of her character, Carrie says Heather is “the friend who states the obvious.” While excited to perform comedy, her greatest lesson from Whit was one of subtlety. She learned that a calm delivery is best for making this quirky brand of humor believable to audiences.

Sony Motion Pictures is scheduled to release the film mid-March of

2012. In the meantime, Carrie is scheduled for Los Angeles shortly after the New Year where she will enjoy magazine shoots with her fellow cast mates in Glamour and Town and Country. She also plans to audition for several roles while visiting L.A. Personally, Carrie is enjoying her time as a newlywed to Montgomery’s Streeter Wiatt, whom she blissfully wed this past August. They met three years ago on a blind date to a Debutante Ball and she is thrilled to be married so they can finally live in the same place. Though the couple resides in New York, they are fortunate to have a one-stop destination for visiting family.

Carrie and Streeter’s parents and grandparents all reside in the Montgomery area, so the pair can be spotted in the River Region throughout the year.

to stick with it.” She has been in the business long enough to experience a variety of struggles, including living away from home, and she’s seen several of her peers become burned out from the process.

In contrast, Carrie’s limelight is only growing. Of her performance in Damsels, Elle Canada says, “She is soon to be a familiar face and in the pages of your favorite glossies.” By never giving up and believing in herself, she has both the career and man of her dreams, and the red carpets await her demure disposition in flawless fashion. Be sure to watch for Carrie MacLemore as Damsels in Distress hits theaters everywhere this spring.

Unlike some celebrities, Carrie is bold to admit her faith in Christ and says it is “paramount” to her identity. In fact, it’s what keeps her balanced during the audition process. As far as choosing roles, she agrees this can sometimes limit her choices but says that it’s “tricky in a practical way” and she “feels blessed to have a team of people who respect her boundaries.”

Carrie sweetly advises to those seeking fame in this genre, “Make sure you really want it enough

Carrie’s Counsel: advising Alabama’s young actors • • • • •

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RSVP JAN/FEB 2012

Get involved in school or community productions Develop good taste in films Go through a list of top film classics Read good books See live theater

WHAT’S ON

TAP?

24 DRAFTS, 10 FLAT SCREEN TVS & THE SOUTH’S

BEST BBQ!

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RSVP JAN/FEB 2012

Cloverdale L-3 Stratis

Casino Pub Crawl Night

Photography by Darren Freeman

A

fter multiple successful Riverfront Pub Crawls in downtown Montgomery, and a demand from the community for more, RSVP Montgomery decided to host the first Cloverdale Pub Crawl on November 18.

Photography Brooke Glassford/Colorbox Photography Cloverdale is by one of Montgomery’s earliest neighborhoods. With its two vibrant entertainment Since opening in Julywith 2009, AlleyBAR has beenand and shopping districts numerous restaurants shops that venue includefor art agalleries an independent the host varietyand of creative and arts cinema, it’s no wonder people of all ages continue exciting private events. During the Air Force to consider it one of Montgomery’s choice residential Information Technology Convention that takes areas.

place at the Renaissance Convention Center Pub Crawl participants included in August each year, L-3 StratisTomatinos, has chosenCafé Luisa, El Rey Burrito Lounge, Sinclair’s, The Chop AlleyBAR to host their event three years House at Vintage Year, ROUX, Pine Bar, Bud’s and in aCapri row. Theatre.

This yearGallery was exceptionally The One Art andfun TheasLook AlleyBAR’s Back Alley was transformed into Boutique also kept their doors open late for fashion and connoisseurs.

The citytrolley an art action packed casino with Blackmade Jack,going Texasback and forth between the two entertainment districts of Hold’em, Craps and Roulette from Good Fellas Cloverdale quite convenient.

Gambling of Birmingham.

Attendees enjoyed barbeque provided The Capri Theatre served beer and wine (the only theatre in Montgomery serves alcohol)by and offered

by Dreamland and anthat open bar hosted L-3 free popcorn to guests while showing classic trailers all Stratis. Upon entering, guests gave a monetary evening long. This theatre, built in 1941, is rich with donationand in exchange for “play” money use character charm. Martin McAffery was to brilliant on the gambling tables.

All donations benefited when deciding to show trailers as it was a great way to pull in out of the cold for short periods and give thepeople Wounded Warrior Project, which provides them a taste of this unique venue. The Capri sold out programs and services to severely injured of beer and wine and there was a report that one couple service during the the entire time between stayed andmembers watched trailers night! active duty and transition to civilian life.

MissyAs Mercer, owner of Tomatinos Café Louisa, the donations rolled in and throughout the hired Bane and the Turtle Gang to perform while night, it was difficult to heed Kenny Rogers’ offering specials with the purchase of any pizza and drink advice to, “Never count when it needs specials.

If you haven’t had your a pizzamoney at Tomatinos, you’re sittin’ at the table.” to be on your “to do” list. IT’S DELICIOUS! For those planning to stay out to the wee hours, the buy-one-getone coffee promotion at Café Louisa was a huge hit.

Across the street, El Rey Burrito Lounge kept later hours, offered $1 off Belgian beer and half price chips and salsa, a great starter to the amazing burritos and fajitas, all made with fresh, local ingredients. Owner Tyler Bell and general manager Jonathan Lunsford do a great job with the menu and the service. The atmosphere is super hip and trendy with a cozy interior and patios nestled behind shrubs. Regulars and crawlers kept this stop packed until midnight where the margaritas and beer were flowing.

The Cloverdale location of Sinclair’s has that Cheers (“where everybody knows your name”) atmosphere. You will often find owners Bill & DJ Flippo along with Johnny Sullivan talking with and enjoying their loyal customers. Opting not to have live music so that everyone could enjoy each others’ company, this was a great stop for people who wanted a light bite in lieu of dinner as the appetizers were discounted, the drinks were strong, and the party was on.

Several couples were looking for a fine dining experience when they took the trolley to The Chop House or ROUX. The Chop House offered discounted entrees and complimentary champagne for those dining. After the dinner crowd left, they opened up the bar where the crowd enjoyed drinks and music

by Will Gordon. Ben Skelley, owner and chef at The Chop House, is sure to please. If you are looking for something more upscale and want to impress, bring your date here.

ROUX had more food specials than we can list. Maybe it was because so many of their menu items are out of this world and narrowing the special down to one item was impossible. Pub Crawlers came and went, but as the night went on, it seemed as though the ladies stuck around. We aren’t sure if it was the signature hurricane cocktail that kept them or the musician, Jonathan Bloom.

The unique, tavern atmosphere in Pine Bar has made this one of the most popular watering holes in the City. When you step inside, you feel like you are in another city. The owners, Morgan Bell and brothers Cedrick and Johan Bumer, who are often there, make you feel like family. The live music on the patio provided a laid back, relaxed atmosphere and kept the bar packed from open to close.

Bud’s Bar was on fire. Owner Bud Skinner has a passion for Cloverdale and has been a constant variable through the best and worst of times. His incredible restaurant, Jubilee Seafood, is packed every night with regulars who say, “It just doesn’t get much better!” Bud’s Bar decided to kick off their new menu item, authentic Mexican street tacos, during the pub crawl and they were a huge hit. People flocked to Bud’s to socialize and play pool and didn’t seem to mind the wait due to the one in– one out capacity. Bud’s was rocking long after the RSVP team shut down!

East Montgomery’s Newest Salon is Now Open

Tuesday - Friday 9am-8pm | Saturday 9am-5pm Owner | Master Cosmetologist, Steve Leonard 8073 Eastchase Parkway| Montgomery, AL 36117 Phone: 334.271.3778 | 334.271.3994

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www.aveda.com www.studio4619.com

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The 2011 RSVP Montgomery & Hello Gorgeous

Fashion Show Downtown Montgomery got a taste of Runway Week on November 3 with the 2011 RSVP Montgomery and Hello Gorgeous Fashion Show in the “Back Alley” of AlleyBAR. After an exciting Model Search on Facebook that yielded almost 60 participants, the top 15 girls were invited to walk the luminescent runway, flaunting show stopping holiday attire from local boutiques: hue Studio, Painted Pink, The Look Boutique and Amoré.

Master stylists Steve Leonard and Sarah Kelly of Studio 4619 and Mallory Spotswood were on site along with makeup artists Rebekah Edwards of LUSH Makeup Art and Ashley Contin of Sophia G Makeup to give the models a surge of glamour.

When doors opened at 7 p.m., the first 50 guests were greeted with lavish goodie bags before taking their seats around the T-shaped runway brought in by American Tent and Rental Company. Specialty Lighting provided the dazzling stage lighting. As a vibrant European techno mix filled the air, the scintillating show began with each beauty sporting 2-3 different looks from the participating boutiques. The catwalk quickly lit up with ultra chic sequin cocktail dresses, flirty party dresses, casual streetwear and everything in between. Photographers Josh Moates and Tyler Caldwell were at hand to capture the magic.

IN motion

You better shape up!

By Amanda McCoy • Photography by Aubrie Lemon Moates

The sun was yet to pierce the horizon as I locked my apartment door. 5:45 a.m. The bitter cold’s one benefit was that its sting helped me to awaken before the daylight on a December Saturday morning.

Anyone that knows me can tell you, I don’t have a reputation for being a morning person. In fact, I managed to get through my last two years of college without one class before 11 a.m. And although I’ve adapted to the perils of the early daylight, I’ll be honest…6 a.m. on a Saturday? Oh the cruelty…

However, I’ve heard nothing less than amazing testimonials from patrons of Casie Scott’s NShape Ultimate Fitness Bootcamp, and my curiosity proved stronger than my craving for sleep. So I found myself on the empty city roads that morning bound for the frosted fields of the Alabama Shakespeare Festival.

True to form, I arrived just in the nick of time, to find roughly 25 campers aligning their mats on the concrete while pulling dumbbells from their gym bags.

Did I accidentally sign up for expert class? I’m supposed to do cardio exercises with weights?!

Casie simply laughed. “You’re getting off easy, Amanda.”

I wouldn’t exactly use the term ‘easy.’

As Casie began the stretching segment in her cheerful and encouraging tone, I studied my surroundings, astounded by how many bootcamp enthusiasts had attended the early morning camp – many of which had traveled from Millbrook and Prattville. Directing my attention to Casie’s smiling face as she shouted out exercises, I realized just how far she had come in the past year. Her first camp, which occurred the previous January, had an attendance of one in what Casie remembers as a brutally cold winter morning.

“She was so motivated, despite the fact that it was absolutely freezing outside!” reminisces Casie. “It was inspiring.”

One year later, the dedicated young personal trainer now has approximately 30 participants, both a Millbrook/ Prattville and Montgomery camp, and offers classes in the mornings and evenings. Beholding her enthusiasm firsthand, her staggering success in such a short

turnaround hardly comes as a surprise.

Oh no, stretching is over. Now the real work begins.

The self-proclaimed fitness junkie has been active seemingly since birth, immersed in sports for the entire duration of her childhood. And I don’t know the correct term for the exercise she had me performing, but after about 30 seconds of what I can only describe as a backwards push up, I instantly regretted not playing a sport or two myself.

Diverting my attention from the burn in my biceps to Casie, I noticed that she knew all of the campers by name – calling out to them if she identified they were slacking.

“She’s supportive and holds you accountable,” says NShape veteran Kylie Hughes. “She supports us outside of camp too with encouraging texts or Facebook messages. She truly wants everyone to do and feel their best.”

Dawn finally began to break as the camp continued.

After a few reps over the hill and across the icy bridge, we found ourselves at the base of a foundation of stairs.

Oh no.

A sequence of circuit style exercises began with jump rope, kettle weights and an evident look of determination radiating off every participant. At the risk of sounding banal, it was an inspiring sight.

Embarrassingly enough, my endurance was slightly subpar. And this was without free weights. Yet all the campers raged on, pushing themselves with the help of Casie’s positive reinforcement.

“Her camps are exciting,” continues Kylie. “Every day is different, but it’s always a full body workout.”

As the end of the hour closed in, Casie wound down the camp with a series of ab exercises. Although at this point I was able to rejoin, I will humbly admit defeat.

I’m eager for the chance to redeem myself.

Only after my calves stop burning.

By Blue Sullivan

Hello, young sisters and brothers! Does 2012 find you well? Did you spend New Year’s Eve wisely, and by wisely I mean in a blurry haze of friend-and-libation-addled happiness? Like they say, it only comes once a year, right?

Of course, the current date on the calendar (whenever you are reading this) only comes once a year, too. You don’t see people getting dressed up and mobbing downtown for Happy February the 11, do you? What pizzazz does 2/11 lack that 12/31 has in spades?

Look, I get it. We have an endless fascination with the changing of the year—renewal, the yearning for personal growth, the potential for new opportunities, blah blah blah. The point is that if you’ve already fallen short of (or abandoned) your New Year’s resolutions, take heart. You can always establish new ones, regardless of the date’s significance.

To that end, we offer the soothing emotional balm that is our monthly compendium of cool new movies, music, sites, etc. And I better see you out celebrating on Happy February the 11.

LOOK: The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo (2011) In theaters now Maybe this is just a reflection of the harsher world in which we live, but it still confounds me. The biggest literary phenomenon since The Da Vinci Code is a series of books that are absolutely chock-a-block with drugs, beatings, torture (both emotional and psychological) and sexual violence. Yes, I’m talking about that best-selling catalogue of female horror known as The Millennium Trilogy. Stieg Larsson’s books have already sold 50 million copies worldwide and spawned three hit foreign films. This new remake of the first one at least sports both an impeccable cinematic pedigree with David Fincher (“The Social Network,” “The Curious Case of Benjamin Button,” “Seven”) directing and James Bond (aka Daniel Craig) starring. If this is your thing, have at it.

SURF: Damn You, Autocorrect! damnyouautocorrect.com The design, fonts and color scheme of this site are an eyesore that practically screams “wacky!” Fortunately, the content of the site is frequently hilarious, if not exactly quotable in this family forum. The title tells all you need to know.

It’s a compilation of the most embarrassing texts made accidentally absurd or (more often) vulgar by autocorrect. If your friends haven’t told you about this site yet, it may be time to get better friends.

LISTEN: Justice – “On n’ On” This song from the new album by France’s latest version of Daft Punk is like Foster The People’s “Pumped Up Kicks” given a spit shine of 70s synthesizers and a much bigger chorus. It’s a techno group putting down the headsets and house beats to make an arena rock anthem, and it has a chorus which, when heard on headphones, effectively acts as a serotonin-delivery system. Get it, circa now.

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By Blue Sullivan • Photography

by Josh Moates JAN/FEB 2012 RSVP 41

KALONJI A. GILCHRIST Kalonji A. Gilchrist is a man of many interests, describing himself as “IT System Administrator at Raycom Media by day—writer, thespian and devoted philanthropist by night.” After studying computer information systems at Auburn Montgomery and Trenholm Technical College, Kalonji has been in the technology field for 10 years, attaining several IT certifications from CompTIA and Microsoft. Though he’s attained remarkable achievements, the road wasn’t always easy. “The majority of my upbringing was in a low income single parent home in the urban community,” he notes.

“Although it was very challenging at times to stay focused on my aspirations due to negative distractions, I was fortunate enough to have a seasoned and strong family to keep me from falling astray.”

Born as the oldest child and with incredible drive, Kalonji always felt the responsibility of being a leader. Fueled by his creative spirit and compassion, Kalonji also serves as one of the co-producers and host of a monthly event called “Art & Soul” at Pure Artistry Literary Café, and he is among three founding members of the community outreach organization, “Just Keep Giving.” The wine connoisseur’s stage time is not limited to acting – he’s also appeared in numerous local fashion shows and can even be spotted in former pages of RSVP!

CORNELIA GRIFFITH For Cornelia Griffith, Master Aesthetician and Owner of Spa Elia, success here in the River Region represents an additional triumph.

Having grown up in Romania, she attained a special perspective.

“The formative years of my childhood were cast under the pall of communist control and as such there was a backdrop of suffering and even survival to almost every aspect of living,” she explains.

“One learns to appreciate the simpler aspects of life and living when once denied these seemingly given freedoms.” A graduate of the Christine Valmy Institute in Bucharest and Steiner Academy in London, Cornelia credits her success to her parents for their unwavering support and granting the entrepreneur the means to chase her dream. With her parents’ assistance and Cornelia’s natural dedication to hard work, failure was never an option, but that doesn’t mean she was free of worry. She experienced similar trepidation when she opened Spa Elia six months ago, but found encouragement with advice from husband Bobby. “One of his regular expressions is that ‘work is its own reward,’ and if I continue to follow and listen to my heart then no step or experience will be out of place.” Today, Cornelia remains an American success story, one she enjoys with her husband and their “child,” a cocker spaniel named Pookie.

CLAY McINNIS You won’t meet too many people under thirty that are more driven than Clay McInnis, Owner of Southern Eco, LLC. It’s no surprise that in 2009, Clay was selected as one of Business Week’s “Top 25 Entrepreneurs Under 25.” While working toward his degree in Sustainable Entrepreneurship, the Auburn University graduate launched Southern Eco his senior year, which sells small biodiesel equipment to schools, universities, cities and businesses. Although now Clay has an office in our revitalized downtown and a home in Hampstead, he wasn’t always sure he’d live in the River Region after college. “Having grown up in Montgomery, I really wanted to see what was on the other side of things,” he explains. “But as I grew older, I realized how much I wanted to be part of the change and progress the city was going through.” Today, Clay is one of the fresh young minds that are helping shape the capital city, but he is careful to credit his success to his family for their steadfast support. Quite active in the community outside of work, Clay is a board member at Hampstead Institute, a member of Helicity Montgomery and is involved with Common Ground ministries and St. James United Methodist Church. When he finds a spare moment for relaxation, he spends it with his fiancée, Melissa McKinney, and his beloved dog, Grady.

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the LIST

JAN/FEB 2012 RSVP 43

the LIST

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Jennifer Hancock, Director of Membership and Member Services at the Medical Association of the State of Alabama, is a true dynamo. Her resume is a beacon of hard work and achievement that spans more than a decade. In 2001, Jennifer was instrumental in creating Digital Wireless Communications, LLC in Eufaula, Alabama. In 2008, she sold the company and joined Electric Cities of Alabama, a public power association in Montgomery, as the Marketing and Communications Director. In 2010, Jennifer took on her current challenge with the Medical Association, where she oversees all residents, students and young physicians statewide, as well as working on recruiting and retention for the medical association. “I travel all over Alabama meeting with physicians and residents,” she explains. “I believe in protecting the integrity of their profession.” In addition to serving as the executive director for the Alabama Psychiatric Physicians Association and the Alabama Society of Gastrointestinal Endoscopy, Jennifer also recently received accolades for her work when she was recognized by the American Association of Medical Society Executives for MASA’s 2011 My Membership Matters Campaign. With her great success, the proud mother is careful to recognize those who’ve inspired her. “Two very important women—Pam Miller and Carrie Banks— have provided guidance and wisdom to me, both personally and professionally.”

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TERRY BIDDY “I joined a gym when I was eighteen,” explains Terry Biddy, Coowner of Pro Fitness 3D. “I became so inspired with fitness and health that two years later, my brother and I opened our own in Georgia.” Now 25 years later, Terry is just as excited about the fitness profession, and his excitement has been so infectious, that his current business partner began as a client. Highly impressed by Terry’s knowledge and experience, Steve Jackowiak offered to assist him in opening Pro Fitness 3D here in Montgomery. In addition to co-owning the company, Terry continues to work as a personal trainer as his true joy lies in seeing the impact fitness has on the lives of his clients. “There is nothing better than knowing that you helped someone feel better about themselves.” Pro Fitness 3D is a real family affair, with Terry’s beautiful wife Jennifer both running the gym and serving as a personal trainer. When they aren’t at work, he and his wife compete as bodybuilders on the national level. “We live and breathe health and fitness every day,” Terry enthuses. At home, the couple has four wonderful kids – Jon, Crystal,Ali and Zane.

JINA CLARK The resurgence of the River Region in recent years has been a cause for celebration, a celebration thanks in no small part to people like Jina Clark, Marketing Director for the Montgomery Area Chamber of Commerce Convention and Visitor Bureau.

A graduate in early childhood and elementary education from Auburn University at Montgomery, Jina found herself taking on a new challenge after college. “Having a marketing job with an education degree has been quite interesting, although working for the Chamber’s Convention and Visitor Bureau is education,” she explains. “Each day our number one goal is the visitor and educating them on all Montgomery has to offer.” Today, Jina’s job gives her an opportunity to really participate in the city’s growth, but the self-starter participates in area improvement outside of work too.

Truly dedicated to the city’s progression, Jina is a member of the Chamber’s EMERGE program, the Torchbearers Class, the Arts Council of Montgomery’s Board, and she represented the CVB on this year’s Central Alabama Hospitality Association’s Board. Asked what drives her success, Jina can’t inhibit her excitement. “Being a native to the city and wanting Montgomery to be a great place really drives me. I work hard every day to make sure visitors see what I see.”

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JENNIFER HANCOCK

GRACE O’CONNER For Grace O’ Connor, Owner/Photographer for Grace Photography, her profession offers a unique joy. “I love working with my ‘little’ clients,” Grace says. “There is nothing more magical than capturing the look of wonder and discovery on a small child’s face.” The slogan for her business is “Authentic images of childhood,” and Grace is committed to that ideal.

“Children see the world just as it is, and being able to be on their level and see things the way they see them is amazing.” With a degree in fashion merchandising and marketing from Western Michigan University, Grace was confident in opening her own business, but was concerned about doing so as a transplant to the River Region. She was surprised at what a great reception she received. “I am thankful that my clients believe in me and my work and share that confidence with their friends and families.”

As an expression of gratitude, she continues to give back to the community through organizations including the Heart Gallery and the Junior League of Montgomery. The rising singer and guitar player is just as active at home and thrives on time spent with her family – husband Dan and four beautiful children.

MICHAEL SHOWS An Intern Architect at 2WR, Michael’s obsession lies in the potential of our surroundings. “I love the idea of creating ‘thoughtful space’ that directly impacts others,” he explains.

“Architecture and design are a challenge that I take very seriously.”

A graduate of the School of Architecture at Auburn University in 2010, Michael has had the opportunity to apprentice with some venerable firms throughout the Southeast, yet he has felt truly invigorated by his time with 2WR. “My current position gives me the opportunity to critique and execute design ideas that are primarily focused on Montgomery’s downtown and urban conditions in general. It’s a rare opportunity that we now have to shape the future of our city.” He also plays a small role in supporting Helicity, a non-profit organization founded by his coworker Johnny Veres, that serves as a catalyst in the movement to make Montgomery a more vibrant and livable city. Outside of the office doors, you will likely find Michael perched at a table in Café Louisa sipping on a latte and dreaming of the future…“well sometimes.”

ANNE RANDLE In this difficult economy, sustainable resources are a blessing for everyone. That’s the good work of Anne Randle, Farm Manager at Hampstead Farms. A part of the Hampstead Institute nonprofit organization, Hampstead Farms has allowed Anne to continue an endeavor she commenced in the Agronomy and Soils Department at Auburn University while working toward her degree in horticulture. While in school, Anne worked at Randle Farms, a sustainable farm just outside Auburn. Working at a similar farm here in Montgomery, she continues to do what she loves most. “I enjoy bridging the gap between people and their food,” she explains. “I know the people I feed from the farm.

I know their names and stories. That connection restores the trust and appreciation in what they’re eating.” Anne’s passion for her work extends beyond her vocation; the avid gardener also farms at home and even keeps a flock of chickens and turkeys.

With her husband Franklin managing his own farm as well, Anne is always busy. “He manages about 400 sheep at his farm in Auburn. So I always get roped into helping him when I have time off,” she says, laughing.

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JAN/FEB 2012 RSVP 47

Table Talk

At times, we all get into a restaurant rut. If you are anything like me, the question, “Where do you want to go for dinner tonight?” usually elicits the same old redundant list of five places. And my response tends to be, “Nowhere. Montgomery never has anything different.” Well, I am here to tell you that I was mistaken—and you might be, too.

a look at Fine Dining

by Mark Leslie Photography by Josh Moates

Recently I went to three of Montgomery’s white tablecloth restaurants to see if I had been missing out on anything, and to my pleasant surprise—I had!

5251 Hampstead High Street • 334.244.0960 Entrée – the evening’s special: Seared Grouper in a Beurre Blanc sauce with Grilled Scallops and Asparagus Dessert – Chocolate Roulade

City Grill, on Montgomery’s Eastside, has been around for 14 years under the ownership and culinary talent of John McCall, who is not a trained chef, but instead considers cooking his “avocation.” I believe I dined at City Grill about 10 years ago, but have no memory of that meal; however, I won’t soon forget my City Grill dinner on a recent Tuesday night.

With a menu featuring a collection of seafood, waterfowl, beef, vegetarian and salmon dishes, there is a wide selection to suit varying tastes.

My selections:

Appetizer – Pan Seared Quail over Gruyere Cheese Grits with Andouille Sausage Gravy Salad – Roasted Beet Salad with Toasted Pecans, Gorgonzola, Red Onions, Arugula and Balsamic Vinaigrette

The quail appetizer was perfectly proportioned with one quail perched (if you’ll forgive the pun) atop a polite serving of grits surrounded with a drizzle of gravy and slices of andouille sausage. The sausage gravy was, well, to die for. I believe the Southern expression is that, “It made me want to slap my mamma!”

The gravy, with the smoky, slightly spicy flavor of the andouille, in combination with the creamy, nutty flavor of the Gruyere grits really came together to complement the subtle gamey nature of the quail. I was glad to see that John restrained himself from making this dish all about the grits, which can sometimes happen in the South. Seriously—the gravy… magnificent!

My beet salad was a colorful collection of red and yellow beets roasted to sweet perfection, while not being overly dressed with the tangy vinaigrette or cheese and roasted pecans—sweet, tangy and smoky all in perfect harmony.

Fresh, tender, flaky and perfectly sized, the grouper entrée arrived right on time after

the salad was cleared. Two scallops, with gorgeous grill marks, flanked the grouper in a beautifully yellow and delicious buerre blanc sauce. Six asparagus spears garnished the plate along with a decorative halved lemon.

First and foremost, I could taste the mild and delicate flavor of the grouper, without it being overwhelmed by the sauce and the same could be said for the scallops—thanks for the saucing restraint John.

As my waiter went through the list of desserts, my brain stopped listening after the mention of Chocolate Roulade—a favorite of mine. A chocolate sponge cake slathered with a layer of whipped cream is rolled jellyroll fashion, chilled and cut into thick slices. John serves his on a layer of crème anglaise (a dessert custard sauce). Can someone “slap their mamma” more than once during a meal? I certainly wanted to do just that!

[Note: City Grill is moving farther down Taylor Road in mid-January to Hampstead.

The décor at Hampstead will really match the quality of John’s food, which is as good as any James Beard award-winning restaurant in Birmingham. I know I’ll be visiting the new location; I hope to see you there!]

MONTGOMERY (334) 213-0046 DINE-IN

•

PRATTVILLE (334) 290-1000

DRIVE-THRU • TAKE-HOME

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CATERING

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on the web at jimnnicks.com twitter.com/jimnnicksbbq jimnnicks.blogspot.com

PRIVATE DINING

Table Talk a look at Fine Dining

121 Montgomery Street • 334.262.2763

My selections:

Appetizer – Fried Green Tomatoes Salad – Roasted Pine Nuts & Spinach Salad Entrée – Steak en Frites Dessert – New Orleans Bread Pudding

The Olive Room was first conceived, designed and owned by Montgomery-based McAlpineTankersley Architecture in the late ‘90s. Bobby McAlpine thought there should be a “big city” restaurant with a “big city vibe” in downtown Montgomery. After 15 years, several ownership/ chef changes, along with a couple of subtle interior changes, the Olive Room still has that “big city vibe” tucked in an intimate setting unprecedented in Montgomery. Ask to sit under the staircase, in the elevator or, for an even more secluded “Big Boss” vibe, ask to sit in the King Pin with its padded banquette walls and closed-circuit TV to view what’s going on in the rest of the restaurant.

New owner Chef Michael Serdula, his bartender Patrick and the knowledgeable Olive Room staff continue that vibe by bringing you varied and eclectic choices, mixed in with some “twisted” classics.

I knew I was in for a new twist on things when the waiter brought freshly baked rosemary/parmesan flatbread with a honey and ancho chile butter to the table. [Once the mild poblano pepper is roasted and peeled, it is referred to as an ancho (“wide”) chile. Don’t worry, this is not a spicy chile pepper.]

The ancho turned the sweetness of the honey butter into an almost maple-flavored butter, really playing on the combination of sweet and smoky against the woodsy-flavored rosemary and salty parmesan cheese of the flatbread. Yum—and I hadn’t even ordered yet!

The Fried Brussels in a Red Wine Vinegar with Parmesan and Truffle Essence caught my eye as an appetizer, but I thought I’d test Chef Michael’s version of the classic fried green tomatoes. Coated with Panko (Japanese bread crumbs), the slices of green tomato were fried until golden and served with arugula and a roasted red pepper-chipotle aioli. The chipotle aioli [Aioli is a garlic, olive oil and egg sauce usually flavored with any number of things] added a sweet and smoky heat to the very crunchy coating of the slightly sour green tomatoes.

A warm sherry vinaigrette with blue cheese, crispy prosciutto and cheery tomatoes topped the spinach with pine nuts salad. My mother used to make a wonderful wilted spinach salad with a warm

vinaigrette during winter when I was a child in northern Illinois. This salad was so much more comforting. Sorry, Mom. In deciding on the entrée, my first choice would have been the Bison Flat Iron Steak until I saw that the fries (frites) which came with the steak were fried in duck fat. Frites in duck fat? Man, I am there! The aged prime rib eye steak was simply seasoned with salt and pepper, cooked to a perfect medium-rare, as I requested, and drizzled with a balsamic vinegar reduction. Great flavor.

The “doggie bag” portion I took home made a great steak sandwich the next day. And the frites?

Stupefacente! (Amazing!)

Bourbon butterscotch sauce and bourbon whipped cream topped the bread pudding. The smooth and buttery sauce made this Southern dessert classic live up to its reputation. The bartender Patrick suggested a Greek dessert wine, Mavrodaphine of Patras Kourtaki, whose powerful bouquet of raisins and dates truly complemented the bread pudding. It was refreshing to see a staff excited to offer new things to their diners.

All the courses portion sizes were a little large— yes, I am not a fan of “bigger is better” when it comes to food; however, Chef Michael’s insightful and playful flavor combinations of sweet, salty, spicy and smoky, along with introducing the Montgomery palate to new some ingredients and delicious twists on the classics, perfectly captured the very “big city vibe” of the Olive Room’s décor and downtown Montgomery’s ongoing rejuvenation.

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MONTGOMERY MARRIOTT PRATTVILLE HOTEL & CONFERENCE CENTER AT CAPITOL HILL 2500 Legends Circle, Prattville, AL 36006 Phone 334.290.1235, marriottcapitolhill.com Part of Alabama’s Resort Collection on The Robert Trent Jones Golf Trail

PCH1312Prattville_RSVP.indd 1

12/21/11 3:20 PM

Table Talk a look at Fine Dining

201 Tallapoosa Street • 334.481.5166 Mustard Glaze Dessert – PB&J Monte Cristo with a Double Shot of Frangelico & Chambord

The House located in The Renaissance Hotel & Spa at the Convention Center downtown beckons Montgomery to do something that has never been a local dining tradition—to come downtown and eat at a hotel restaurant.

If you’ve never considered doing so before, you should.

The menu of Chef John Melton, recognized by the Alabama Restaurant Association and the Alabama Hospitality Association as the 2011 Chef of the Year, offers a wide range of menu selections, price points and organic, farm-grown vegetables—dispelling the preconceived notion that a hotel restaurant is over-priced, only geared toward the businessman’s expense account and serves pre-packaged food.

My selections:

Appetizer – Seared Scallops with Braised Oxtail Ragout Salad – The Wedge with House-made Blue Cheese Dressing and Blistered Tomatoes or with Crumbled Alabama Goat Cheese and Balsamic Vinegar Entrée – Frenched Pork Chop with Brandy

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I was welcomed with a special amuse bouche (“mouth amuser”—a French term meaning a complimentary “bite” prepared and offered by the chef). Sous Chef Mike Wehner served a short rib, small sweet potato polenta cake and a pear and green onion slaw. Small and simply one bite each, these three offerings encapsulated Southern barbeque. Honestly, I could eat the pear and green onion slaw everyday for a month—truly refreshing against the short rib and potato cake.

The scallop appetizer intrigued me by being combined with an oxtail ragout. What I thought might be an unusual combination of flavors actually worked well together as the seared scallop’s velvety middle married deliciously with the velvety lusciousness of the oxtail.

After requesting the Wedge salad, the waiter suggested a goat cheese alternative dressing to the in-house prepared blue. I sampled both and it is difficult to say which I preferred more since they were equally quite good.

The pork chop arrived “frenched” (with the meat and fat trimmed from the end of the bone) on a sizzling cast iron plate drizzled in the mustard glaze and garnished on the side with a roasted half head of garlic. The thick chop, which I had prepared to the “chef’s preference” for doneness, was tender and juicy—perfectly cooked. The brandy mustard glaze was sweet and peppery, and I really

enjoyed mashing the roasted garlic cloves on some of The House’s freshly baked sourdough bread, making this a hearty and warming winter dish.

For dessert, Mike went off menu and prepared a special circular PB&J sandwich made with brioche bread, lightly coated in egg, then fried Monte Cristo sandwich-style and dusted with powdered sugar—a warm and elegant twist on a childhood classic. And to bump this dessert up to adult status, the PB&J Cristo was served with a mixed double shot of Frangelico (hazelnut liqueur) and Chambord (black raspberry liqueur). Shaken gently together with shaved ice and then strained, here was a PB&J-tasting shot. Like eating the sandwich, the berry flavor hits your taste buds first, followed by the nutty flavor of hazelnuts, in this case. Paired with the sandwich, this dessert was a “1, 2” sophisticated knockout.

School lunches would have been so much more fun had my mom packed this in my lunchbox!

I now have three “new” restaurants to add as my answer for, “Where do you want to go for dinner?” My current dilemma is trying to decide which one to go back to first!

Buon Appetito~ Mark In his book (and app), Beyond the Pasta, Mark drew from his extraordinary cooking and language program completed in Viterbo, Italy, to share his life-changing experience and offer a collection of Authentic, delicious Italian recipes. For more information on Mark’s book, visit www.beyondthepasta.com.

ADD SPARKLE TO VALENTINE’S. Start a tradition that goes beyond candy and roses. A trip to the Renaissance Montgomery Hotel & Spa in downtown offers a romantic backdrop for the perfect Valentine’s Day. Visit the spa for a day of pampering and relaxation. Finish the evening with an elegant dinner at The House restaurant, made special with attention to detail and delicious cuisine. For more information or reservations, please call 334.481.5000 or visit www.renaissancemontgomery.com.

Use an app like RedLaser on your smartphone to read the QR code to the left and receive 15% off your next spa treatment on Tuesdays, Wednesdays & Thursdays.

Expires 2/29/2012.

RENAISSANCE MONTGOMERY HOTEL & SPA AT THE CONVENTION CENTER 201 Tallapoosa Street Montgomery AL 36104 t: 334.481.5000

facebook.com/renaissancemontgomery

Part of the Resort Collection on Alabama’s Robert Trent Jones Golf Trail

JAN/FEB 2012 RSVP 53

ANew Take on Tights Photography by Aubrie Lemon Moates

Don’t grieve the faded autumn air – embrace the winter chill with stand out tights this season. The standard black and brown leggings simply won’t suffice any longer. Spruce up your wardrobe and layer your legs with funky patterns, pops of color and luxurious lace.

Dreary weather or not, don’t be afraid of color this winter!

Steal the show in these purple ribbed leggings found at Dillard’s.

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Any lover of lace will find obsession in these footless black and ivory stockings from The Look Boutique.

The elegant and feminine lace radiates romance.

The intricate design of these lace tights from Francesca’s Collections will turn your ensemble into a work of art.

Want to brighten up a simple black dress? Throw in these hot pink tights from Dillard’s, and your look will be anything but ordinary.

These classic hounds tooth tights from Francesca’s Collections will add a touch of sophistication to any outfit, day or night.

Miss Alabama USA is coming to MPAC On January 27 and 28, Montgomery will be hosting the prestigious Miss Alabama USA and Miss Teen Alabama USA pageants for the first time. This exciting event will showcase some of the state’s brightest and most beautiful young women.

Tickets are available at the MPAC box office or on ticketmaster.com, and can be purchased for one or both nights.

Girls Scouts of America turns 100 The nation’s premier leadership organization for girls is turning 100! For a century, Girl Scouts of America has been building girls of courage, confidence and character, who have continued to make the world a better place. Easily one of the most famous of its traditions, the Girl Scout cookie sales, make up nearly half of the top 10 selling cookies in the United States, and proceeds go to benefit troops. Bite into a delicious Girl Scout cookie today!

The House of Suavé Fashion Show Weeks after the fashion extravaganza of the year, The House of Suavé is still the talk of the town. Nearly 700 spectators filled the room to witness Epiphany – the dawn of a new era and the latest fashion designs from designers Perry Varner (DenHim & LeatHer), Adrian Young (F.O.G. House), Keisha K. (Uniquely Me), Valerie Pittman (The Look Boutique), Charles Andrews (Charles Andrews Couture), Shaquoya Jackson (ShaLaJa Swimwear), Julie Reid (J. Couture) and Leon Parham (Moma’s Boy Inc.),coupled with 60 of the surrounding areas most fabulous and exotic models, a breathtaking tribute to the Family Sunshine Center, exciting dance routines, door prizes, various vendors and more. Critics and spectators alike say that the bar has been raised and the show Executive Producer Joe Howard not only gave the city an array of fashion, beauty and style, but also earned his place amongst the titans of Montgomery’s fashion expos.

Jim ‘N Nick’s Famous Cheese Biscuits Jim ‘N Nick’s has long been known for its mouth-watering cheese biscuits, and now customers can take home the mix! Impress guests or give your family a delicious Southern appetizer. The mix is available for purchase at both Jim ‘N Nick’s locations for only $5.99. www.jimnnicks.com

Les Dames The ladies of Les Dames Mystic Society celebrated “Southern Traditions” Friday, November 11 at the Montgomery Country Club. The Queen and members welcomed guests to an enchanted evening of the traditions we love most here in the South: family, friends, music, vacations, football and our Southern gentlemen. The ballroom was transformed into a lavish outdoor garden adorned with magnolias, steeds and ferns for the 55th Annual Ball. Susan Woody, the night’s Master of Ceremonies, kept guests entertained throughout the tableau, and the Queen was presented at its conclusion, escorted by her husband and two daughters. Cold Hard Truth then rocked the night out with a cover of 80s and 90s rock music, and the dance floor was crowded and pumping with energy all night. With gracious Southern hospitality and charm, everyone enjoyed a great evening. Another Southern Tradition was concluded in the Heart of Dixie.

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- a look at local sound

Goat Hill String Band

By Blue Sullivan Photo by Patty Garman

In a city where it seems like every other musician playing the bars covers the same 20 songs by the same 10 classic rock artists, Goat Hill String Band is a welcome anomaly. They chose an eclectic set from the last several decades of popular music. The arrangements approximate what the Foggy Bottom Boys (the fictitious band from the Coen Brothers’ brilliant 2000 film about the 1930s South, O’ Brother Where Art Thou?) might sound if they performed in 2012. They have a wonderfully anachronistic sound that provides a welcome antidote to the ever-pervasive norm of “guy with acoustic guitar plays Allman Brothers cover again.” RSVP sat down with JP Reed, vocalist, guitarist and banjo for the band.

RSVP: Tell us about Goat Hill String Band. How was it formed and when?

JP: First, let me introduce the band. Fred Clements on mandolin/vocals, Aaron Peters on fiddle/vocals, John Garman on upright bass/vocals, and last but not least, me on guitar/ banjo/vocals. In 2008, we were all playing with different groups at the time and had played together on several occasions. Aaron, Fred and John were playing in a country/ bluegrass band called the Coosa River Broadcasters. They had discussed maybe doing more than just bluegrass with bluegrass instruments. They had mentioned maybe taking pop songs and rearranging them to fit our sound in hopes of drawing a

larger and more diverse crowd. Thus Goat Hill String Band was born!

RSVP: Also, where does the name come from?

JP: “Goat Hill String Band” was a name that we agreed would tie us to Montgomery, being that’s the name of the hill where the Alabama state capitol building sits today. All four of us live in Montgomery, and most of our gigs are here, too. We hope that our name gives our fans a sense of ownership.

RSVP: Your set list has a lot more variety than what you always hear from other bands.

JP: We want to play what the crowd wants to hear, but with regards to the classic shout outs for “Freebird,” “Sweet Home Alabama” or ‘The Devil Went Down to Georgia.” We consider these to be a bit taboo for us, since you can hear every other cover band play those songs.

RSVP: How do you come up with your set?

JP: We began rehearsing and arranging songs that had been hits by other bands but just not with the sound we were able to produce. Then we began bringing songs to the table like “Billy Jean” by Michael Jackson and “Take on Me” by the 80s band A-ha. People loved it! So performing pop and rock covers became our trademark and what set us apart from other bands. We could take old and new songs, insert our own crazy

interpretations, and then turn it into something unique. I think one of the reasons people stick around to listen to us is because they are constantly asking, “I wonder what they will play next?”

RSVP: Tell us about your own personal journey to becoming a musician.

JP: I grew up a pretty shy kid. I was never good at sports, and music seemed to be something that came naturally. I like to say that I was baptized into bluegrass at a very young age, so young that some of my first memories are of the Lawrence Mill Opry in Fayette County, Alabama. My father began playing fiddle in a bluegrass band around that time, and I was always privileged to tag along.

RSVP: When did you first start playing with other people?

JP: When it came time to sign up for 6th grade band, I was the first one in line and percussion was first on my list. After all, I had been jamming on a drum set to Metallica songs with my brother in the basement since I was 10. Marching band, jazz band and multiple rock bands throughout high school helped me to develop an appreciation for all genres of music. As I grew older, I began picking up more and more instruments to experiment with. From percussion to guitar to banjo, and I even had a round with bagpipes. It wasn’t until I was in my late teens that I began experimenting with bluegrass.

RSVP: What made you want to play bluegrass?

JP: In college, I discovered artists like Bela Fleck, who had taken the banjo and bluegrass music to an entire level. From that point on, I was devoted to doing something different.

Music is just notes on page, but when played in the right way can haunt the very depths of your soul.

RSVP: What artists influenced your current sound?

JP: For me personally, my primary musical influences vary from the Grateful Dead to Bela Fleck and the Flecktones. As far as the band goes, a love for good ole’ bluegrass is probably something that we all have in common. Bill Monroe, Earl Scruggs, Doc Watson, the list goes on forever. But we all individually have certain things that we can’t get enough of.

John is a huge fan of the precision and artistry of Drum Corps International, or DCI. He travels all summer watching shows and can’t get enough. Aaron is a five time Alabama Old Time Fiddling Champion and some of his biggest influences are Andy Leftwich, Stuart Duncan and Aubrey Haynie.

RSVP: Who were the first artists you remember listening to that made you want to be a musician?

JP: Some of my first memories are watching “Hee Haw” on Saturday evenings with my family. Of course, we didn’t have a choice. “Hee Haw” was more important than the news it seemed. I remember dancing to Ricky Skaggs’ “I’m Just a Country Boy” when I was really young. Also, I remember my parents buying a new car and the song “Africa” by Toto was on the demo tape for the car stereo, which is really funny, because that’s actually a song that we’ve talked about playing in the band.

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RSVP: What contemporary artists do you listen to?

JP: I love Fleet Foxes, Coldplay, Sufjan Stevens, The Punch Brothers, Bela Fleck, Edgar Meyer, Lisa Hannigan, The Avett Brothers, The Wood Brothers…the list could probably get really long.

RSVP: What’s on your iPod right now?

JP: Vince Guaraldi’s Charlie Brown Christmas, Coldplay, Yo Yo Ma, Aaron Copeland, Enigma, Bela Fleck, Fleet Foxes and Radiohead.

RSVP: What artists outside of popular music have influenced your work?

JP: One of my favorite film composers is James Horner. He wrote the scores for Braveheart, Apollo 13, Titanic, Legends of the Fall and many more.

RSVP: How does the Goat Hill String Band choose what it plays?

JP: We typically just bring a new song to the table during practice time. Something that one of us has heard on the radio and thought, “Hey, we could do that song.” We give it a shot and almost immediately know if it will work or be a complete train wreck.

RSVP: Have you guys done any recordings?

JP: We have a demo that can be heard at www.goathillstringband.com. It was made using a single condenser microphone that we gathered around in order to produce the most raw and natural sound. We prefer trying to sound as natural as possible when we play out live. No effects. 100% all natural. We plan to put together a new demo soon and include some of our new material from the past year. We would also like to include pieces of live recordings on that demo.

RSVP: How does live performance influence your work?

JP: We’re there for the audience, and knowing that the music we play makes them happy is what drives us to continue working hard to please them. We do what we do because we love making people happy!

RSVP: What is your favorite live experience, where and why?

JP: We’ve played so many places over the past few years that it’s hard to pick just one – from big weddings to outdoor festivals to everything in between. It’s always great to know that the crowd is loving every song that you play, and the folks there are always very appreciative. When the crowd is into the music, we’re into the music, even though we may have played the song a million times.

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BEHIND THE SCENES... the RSVP team in action!

Tom Brokaw Signing Off

WAKA catches up with RSVP

Wrappin’ with M.H.S.

Pub Crawlin'

RSVP Christmas Party at Hampstead.

To resolutions that last …

Breck Honea, Agent 61 Market Place - Atlanta Hwy Montgomery, AL 36117 Bus: 334-272-8423 www.breckhonea.com

1101456

Happy New Year!

Whether you’ve got one, or 99, we wish you the drive and resolve to get to a better state™.

Like a good neighbor, State Farm is there.® CALL ME TODAY.

State Farm, Home Office, Bloomington, IL JAN/FEB 2012 RSVP 63

when? what? where?

January

Jan 1-24-Re-Used, Recycled, Renewed: The Art of Betty Sue Matthews

Times vary.Troy University Rosa Parks Museum. Exhibit from the collection of Ron Drinkard. For more information about the exhibit programs, contact Viola Moten at 334.241.8701 or vmoten@troy.edu Jan 5-22-In the Book Of… Times vary. Alabama Shakespeare Festival. Enjoy John Walch’s powerful reimagining of The Book of Ruth and see how family, friendship and the American Way are all tested.

For ticket information, call the box office at 1.800.841.4273 or visit www.asf.net

Jan 7-Lewis Black 8 P.M. Montgomery Performing Arts Centre. Enjoy this critically acclaimed comedian when he brings his stand-up to Montgomery. Ticket prices vary. Call 334.481.5100 or visit www.mpaconline.org Jan 9-BCS National Championship: LSU vs. UA 7:30 P.M. Mercedes Benz Superdome, New Orleans. Get your tickets now for the most exciting game of the year and see who will be the next National Champs. Visit www.gotickets.com for ticket information.

Jan 10-Speed Bingo 6-8:15 P.M. Capital City Club. $12.50 will get you a delicious three course meal and a chance to win fun prizes while playing 15 games of bingo! You will also have a chance to win $50 in food and beverage credits. Call 334.834.8920 or visit www.capitalmontgomery.com Jan 11-60 Minute Coffee 8-9 A.M. COSTCO Wholesale. Begin your day by networking with Chamber executives and community leaders as well as making new contacts. Contact Deborah Pope at 334.240.9431 or dpope@montgomerychamber.com

Thomas O. Patterson, REALTOR® Residential Sales | Aronov Realty (334) Office: 277-2700 | Direct: 399-0454 thomas@thomasopatterson.com Member Montgomery Area Association of Realtors®

7027 Halcyon Park Drive | Montgomery, AL 36117

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Jan 11-Gregg Allman with opening act Jaimoe’s Jasssz Band

7:30 P.M. Montgomery Performing Arts Centre. Enjoy this rock and blues singer and see why he is one of Rolling Stone’s “100 greatest singers of all time.” Ticket prices vary.

Call 334.481.5100 or visit www.mpaconline.org

when? what? where?

12-Lunch and Learn with the Alabama Shakespeare Festival

Jan

12-1 P.M. Capital City Club. $15 per person inclusive. Meet young professionals of the Alabama Shakespeare Festival! ASF is gearing up for the New Year and wants to tell you all about it. Hear about the upcoming season and meet some of the young professionals who bring it all together. Open to the public. For reservations, contact Member Relations Director Ashley Brandle at 334-834-8920 or ashley.brandle@ourclub.com Jan 14, Feb 11-Write It Down 2-4 P.M. Creative Writing Workshop for ages 13 to 18 conducted by RealLife Poets. “Changing minds, one rhyme at a time.” Pre-registration required. For more information, visit www.paLitcafe.com Jan 14, Feb 11-Speak No Evil: Laugh Lounge 8 P.M. Show starts at 9. Pure Artistry Literary Café. Enjoy the best in clean comedy, featuring local and regional comedians. $15 at the door, $10 in advance. For more information, visit www.paLitcafe.com Jan 15-Southern Bridal Show 12-5 P.M. BJCC Arena, Birmingham. Enjoy live entertainment and a fashion show as you browse the South’s largest bridal show. The most trusted photographers, caterers, florists, etc. will be on hand to help you plan your entire wedding! Admission charged. Call 770.736.1979 or visit www.eliteevents.com Jan 15-Jazz Sunday Brunch 5:30-7:30 P.M. Capital City Club. Enjoy live music and great food with an awesome view. The Capital City Club is hosting its second annual Jazz Sunday Brunch. Don’t forget to bring your friends and family as we are sure that you will want to make this an annual tradition! Register online or call the Club at 334-834-8920 today to make your reservations. Members and guests of members only. For membership information, please contact Phyllis Fenn at phyllis.fenn@ourclub.com or www.capitalmontgomery.com Jan 16-MLK Donation Drive Times vary. To commemorate MLK Day, the Volunteer and Information Center is coordinating a donation drive to benefit their nonprofit partners. For more information call 334-264-3335 or visit their website www.handsonriverregion.org Jan 19-2012 State of the City and County 7:30-8:30 A.M. RSA Activity Center. Enjoy breakfast as you get valuable information on the “state of the city” with Montgomery Mayor Todd Strange and “state of the county” with Commissioner Chairman Elton N. Dean Sr. Fees apply.

For more information, contact Brenda King at 334.230.8361 or bking@montgomerychamber.com

where i will grow As Central Alamama’s 21st Century Technology School, Saint James is proud to be on the cutting edge once again... bringing the latest in technology to your child.

Visit our state-of-the-art campus and picture your child soaring to new heights – right from the classroom!

Pre-K4 & Kindergarten Open House Sunday, January 22, 1:30pm All-day and half-day pre-school and kindergarten options available.

for pre k3-12th grade admissions info call 334.273.3000 6010 Vaughn Road, Montgomery stjweb.org English as a second language (ESL) tutoring provided. Saint James School admits students of any race, color, national and ethnic origin to all the rights, privileges, programs and activities generally accorded or made available to students at the school.

JAN/FEB 2012

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when? what? where?

Jan 20- State of our City Address with Mayor Todd Strange 11:30 A.M.-1 P.M. Capital City Club. Montgomery is growing rapidly. The city has big plans to keep this growth possible, and the Mayor wants to tell you all about it! Get all your questions answered at this luncheon as Mayor Todd Strange informs us of all his big plans for the City. $20 includes lunch.

Members and guests of members only. For membership information, please contact Phyllis Fenn at phyllis.fenn@ ourclub.com or 334-834-8920. www.capitalmontgomery.com Jan 21-22-Alabama Horse Council Horse Fair 8 A.M.-6 P.M. Garrett Coliseum. Come out and enjoy vendors, lectures, a silent auction, drill team, cowboy mounted shooters and a breed barn. Admission charged. For more information visit www.alabamahorsecouncil.org or call 205.678.2882 Jan 21-Cruising the Creekwalk 5K and 1 Mile 9 A.M. Doster Center, Downtown Prattville. Pre-registration on www.active.com ends January 15. Early registration is $22 and registration the day of is $25. For more information, contact Thea Langley at 334.365.0295, Mike Miller at 334.491.8000 or visit www.active.com Jan 24- EMERGE Torchbearers Class IV Mixer 5:30-7 P.M. Montgomery Area Visitor Center at the Historic Union Station is calling all young professionals! You are invited to our EMERGE Torchbearers Class IV Mixer. The Torchbearer’s Leadership class is a skills-oriented, experiential leadership development program designed to involve, inform and increase the awareness of selected participants through interaction with community decision-makers. Attend this informational event and gain a better understanding how this leadership course can benefit you! Applications are due February 27th. Register online at www.emergemontgomery. com or email torchbearersalumni@gmail.com for more information.

Jan 24-Monty Python’s Spamalot 7:30 P.M. Montgomery Performing Arts Centre. Broadway at the MPAC presents the hilarious musical, Spamalot. Ticket prices vary. Call 334.481.5100 or visit www.mpaconline.org Jan 26-Business After Hours 5-7 P.M. Mann Wildlife Learning Museum. This popular 2-hour networking event is the perfect place to exchange business cards and meet potential customers. Contact Lynn Norton at 334.240.9431 or Lnorton@montgomerychamber.com Jan 27-“Damn Yankees” 7 P.M. Troy University’s Davis Theatre for the Performing Arts.

For ticket information, call 334.241.9567 Jan 27-28-Miss Alabama USA and Miss Teen Alabama USA Times vary. Montgomery Performing Arts Centre. The preliminaries will be held on Friday evening at 8 p.m., followed by the finals Saturday at 7:30 p.m. Montgomery is hosting this prestigious event for the first time in what will be an exciting show. Admission charged. For more information, visit www. missalabamausa.com 66

RSVP JAN/FEB 2012

when? what? where?

Jan 27-29-Culinary Boot Camp at The Hotel at Auburn

University

Times vary. Come be a part of this hands-on, weekend long event showcasing the best of Alabama culinary talents and products. For more information, call 334.321.3179 or visit www.auhcc.com

phone 334-262-8859

www.129coosa.com

Jan 27-Feb 7-“The 39 Steps” Times vary. Alabama Shakespeare Festival. Four actors play 140 roles in this Tony award-winning Broadway smash that is a combination of Alfred Hitchcock, James Bond and Monty Python. Called an “ingenious, dizzy delight” by the New York Daily News, this is one show you won’t want to miss! For ticket information, call the box office at 1.800.841.4273 or visit www.asf.net Jan 30-“In the Heights” 7:30 P.M. Montgomery Performing Arts Centre. Broadway at the MPAC presents In the Heights, the universal story of a vibrant community in New York’s Washington Heights neighborhood. Ticket prices vary. Call 334.481.5100 or visit www.mpaconline.org for more information.

February Meetings

Parties

Receptions

Feb 1-29-Black Heritage Tours 9 A.M.-12 P.M. Old Alabama Town. Throughout the month of February, Old Alabama Town is offering heritage tours to honor the great sacrifices and struggles endured by Alabama’s early African Americans. Call 334.240.4500, 888.240.5100 or visit www.oldalabamatown.com Feb 3-7-“Travels with My Aunt” Times vary. Alabama Shakespeare Festival. Come enjoy this delightful comedy in which a young man is reunited with his eccentric aunt and an around-the-world adventure begins!

Call the box office at 1.800.841.4273 or visit www.asf.net

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RSVP JAN/FEB 2012

Feb 4-A Vintage Affair 5:30-7 P.M Wynlakes Golf and Country Club. Enjoy a silent auction with 200-300 items and a wine tasting with 10 wine vendors. Dinner will follow at 7:30 with a three course meal and live auction. For more information, call 334.612.8178 or e-mail Ashley.gorum@cancer.org Feb 5-Southern Bridal Faire 1-5 P.M. RSA Activity Center. Come check out this fresh new concept of a bridal expo. The very best professionals from every specialty have been handpicked to help you make the dreams of your special day come true! If you have any questions or want to reserve a space, e-mail info@southernbridalfaire.com Feb 6-Eggs and Issues with Senator Richard Shelby 7:30-8:30 A.M. RSA Activity Center. Join the chamber and Senator Richard Shelby to discuss issues impacting business development, regional projects and the vitality of MaxwellGunter AFB. Fees apply. Contact Brenda King at 334.230.8361 or bking@montgomerychamber.com

when? what? where?

Feb 6- Young Professional of the Year Award 12-1 P.M. Capital City Club. This award recognizes the achievements of a young professional in the River Region between the ages of 22-40, who has demonstrated noteworthy commitment to excellence and community service in his/her profession, and has worked to promote the well-being of his/her community as a whole. Prices vary.

Register online at www.emergemontgomery.com or email torchbearersalumni@gmail.com for more information.

Feb 8-60 Minute Coffee 8-9 A.M. The Deli at Alley Station. Meet potential clients, make important contacts, and network with chamber executives and community leaders. Contact Deborah Pope at 334.240.9431 or dpope@montgomerychamber.com Feb 9-Alabama Lifestyle Expo 8 A.M.-2 P.M. The Caribe Resort in Orange Beach, Alabama. Come take part in the 19th annual Lifestyle Expo.

Residents and visitors can learn about “living in Alabama communities,� including places to see, things to do and healthy living. Free admission. Call 1.800.235.4757 or visit www.alabamaadvantage.com Feb 9-11-2nd Annual Birmingham Fashion Week Times vary. Pepper Place, Birmingham. Local and national designers alongside local and national boutiques will get together to promote and inspire rising stars. Explore the creative talents of Birmingham! Proceeds will benefit Camp Smile-A-Mile. For more information, call 205.977.7202 or visit www.bhamfashionweek.com Feb 10-Carnivale Gala and Masquerade 6-10:30 P.M. Event Center, downtown Opelika. The Masquerade kicks off at 9 P.M. following the Gala. Formal evening of arts and culture targeting business and civic leaders from across Alabama with the aim of spreading the true value of becoming dynamically invested in the arts within their own communities. Nationally recognized performing artist Sarah Kay will be the keynote speaker.

Single tickets and table sponsorships available. Contact Julie Bunkley at 251.605.0145 or at Julie@thelaymangroup.org Feb 10-Rascal Flatts with Sara Evans and Hunter Hayes 7:30 P.M. BJCC Arena, Birmingham. For ticket information, visit www.ticketmaster.com Feb 11-Polar Bear Run 9 A.M. First Baptist Church, downtown Prattville. There will be activities for runners, walkers and fun-seekers of all ages!

Fees apply. Registration closes February 9. Call 334.365.0606 or visit www.active.com for more information.

Feb 11-14-Love on the Harriott II 6:30-9 P.M. Harriott II. $149 per couple, dinner included. The ship will board at 6:30 and cruise from 7 to 9. To purchase tickets, call 334.625.2300 or visit the Riverwalk Box Office on 200 Coosa Street.

JAN/FEB 2012

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Continuing Education Your Center for Lifelong Learning

Computer Training Classes Social Media for Business Nurse Refresher Course Microsoft Office English Book Club

Event Planning Certificate Spring Break Camp Latin Dance Online Classes Basic English

Download your catalog at www.aum.edu/coned or call 244-3804 Add us on Facebook to receive updates on classes and special prices. Search: AUM Continuing Education View our digital catalog

Jan. 27–Feb. 7

A

February 3–7

World Premiere Play

“Warm, edgy and ultimately thought-provoking” –Ed Kauffman, Hollywood Reporter “Fresh and absorbing...” –Robert Faires, The Austin Chronicle

January 5-22

By John Walch

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AlAbAmA ShAkeSpeAre FeStivAl

montgomery, Alabama 1.800.841.4273 www.ASF.net

when? what? where?

Feb 12-Sweetheart Sunday Brunch 11 A.M.-1:30 P.M. Capital City Club. Treat your special someone to Chef Michael’s Sweetheart Sunday Brunch Buffet! Roses will be presented to each lady so make your reservations now. Call the Club at 334.834.8920. For member and guests of members only. For membership information, contact Phyllis Fenn at Phyllis.fenn@ourclub.com or visit www.capitalmontgomery.com Feb 13-14-The Love Songs of Buddy and Elvis 7:30 P.M. Alabama Shakespeare Festival. Bring your sweetheart to ASF to enjoy the love songs of Buddy Holly and Elis Presley. For ticket information, call the box office at 1.800.841.4273 or visit www.asf.net Feb 14-Valentine’s Day in Auburn 5:30-10 P.M. Ariccia Italian Trattoria and Bar, Auburn. You and your valentine can enjoy a plated three course dinner and chocolate confections at Ariccia, the ultimate place for a romantic Valentine’s Day celebration! Call 334.844.5140 for more information or visit www.auariccia.com Feb 14-The Official “Blues Brothers Revue” 7:30-10 P.M. BRHS Auditorium, Alexander City. Come enjoy the only Belushi approved Blues Brothers Revue presented by the Alexander City Arts, Inc. For more information, contact Ron Morgan at 256.234.9806 or visit www.alexandercitychamber.com Feb 14- Valentine’s Day Romantic Dinner Times vary. The Capital City Club. We will be open Monday evening just so you can have a great place to celebrate this special day. Chef Michael has a special “choice of” menu for you and your sweetheart! A rose will be presented to each lady. Seating will be limited, so make your reservations early.

Call the Club today at 834-8920. Members and guests of members only. For membership information contact Phyllis Fenn at phyllis.fenn@ourclub.com Feb 15-29-Wicked: A New Musical 7:30 P.M. BJCC Concert Hall, Birmingham. Ticket prices vary.

Visit www.ticketmaster.com to learn more.

Feb 16-Alabama Arts Showcase: Black History Month 5:30-7:30 P.M. Capital City Club. Free to attend, wine tasting is $15. The Alabama Arts Showcase will highlight black artists from Alabama. There will be a variety of wine selections to sample as well as delicious hors d’oeuvres – so don’t miss this fantastic event! Register online or call the Club at 334834-8920 today to make your reservations! Members and guests of members only. For membership information, please contact Phyllis Fenn at phyllis.fenn@ourclub.com or 334834-8920. www.capitalmontgomery.com Feb 16-19-Birmingham Home and Garden Show Times vary. BJCC Arena, Birmingham. This event brings the biggest home, garden and lifestyle celebrities to town and showcases all-new products and services for the home and garden. Admission charged. Visit www.birminghamhomeandgardenshow.com JAN/FEB 2012

RSVP 71

when? what? where?

Left to right: Lynn Akin, Denton Hawk, Kathy Clay, Allison Bird, Alan Williams, Terri Capouya, Angela Bailey and Leslie Jackson

ExpEriEncE thE powEr of a tEam. regions river region mortgage team - exceeding expectations since 1946.

regions mortgage knows that the needs of homebuyers are as different as the homes they are buying. what works for someone else may not work for you. as one of the leading mortgage lenders in the nation, regions mortgage is not only able to offer a wide variety of options, but also the guidance you need to pick the right loan with confidence. fha, Va and conventional Loans investment and Second home Loans Jumbo financing construction-permanent Loans with one-time close feature

main Line: 334.213.1340 8301 crossland Loop montgomery, aL 36117

©2011 Regions Bank. Member FDIC. Subject to qualification, required documentation and credit approval. certain exclusions may apply. Loan terms and availability subject to change. 10/14/11

Feb 17-Lunch with Martha Hawkins 11:30 A.M.-1 P.M. Capital City Club. Author of Finding Martha’s Place and owner of what used to be the soul food restaurant of Montgomery, Martha’s Place, Martha Hawkins’ life is a testament of faith, dreams, love and hope. Come to the Club and hear her motivational story and enjoy a delicious lunch with friends! Call the Club today for your reservations at334. 834.8920. Open to the public. 334-8348920. www.capitalmontgomery.com Feb 17-Bill Cosby 6 and 8:30 P.M. Alabama Theatre, Birmingham. For ticket information visit www.ticketmaster.com Feb 17-18-Ms. Wheelchair Alabama Times vary. Staybridge Suites in Montgomery. This pageant is based on knowledge, attitude and speaking.

The next Ms. Wheelchair will serve as an advocate for all people with disabilities. Call 334.237.4606 or visit www.mswheelchairalabama-usa.org Feb 17-18-Swan Lake Times vary. Montgomery Performing Arts Centre. The Montgomery Ballet presents Swan Lake in co-production with Birmingham’s Alabama Ballet. For ticket information, call 334.409.0522 or visit www.montgomeryballet.org Feb 18-Critter Crawl 5K 9 A.M. Alabama Nature Center Pavilion, Millbrook. Five miles of boardwalks and trails cut through the 350 acres of forests, fields, streams and ponds that all make up the Alabama Nature Center. Awards will be given at the end of the run.

Fees apply. Registration ends February 15. Call 334.285.4550 or visit www.alabamawildlife.org Feb 18-Crank Your Heart Ride 9:30 A.M. Chewacla State Park, Auburn. Being held in conjunction with the 22nd Annual Love Your Heart Run, the Crank Your Heart Ride was introduced in an effort to broaden the Exceptional Outreach Organization’s annual fundraising event and further raise awareness of the many therapeutic programs we support throughout the community.

Registration ends February 16. Fees apply. Visit www.active. com for more information Feb 18-Animal Enrichment Day 10 A.M.-2 P.M. Montgomery Zoo. Learn more about the animals that live in the zoo and discover new facts about some of your favorites. Admission charged. Call 334.240.4900 or visit www.montgomeryzoo.com Feb 18-19-“The Meeting” by Jeff Stetson Times and ticket prices vary. Pure Artistry Literary Café.Visit www.paLitCafe.com for more information.

Feb 19- Vickie Yohe 10:20 A.M. Fresh Anointing House of Worship, Montgomery.

Experience the powerful, dynamic, heartfelt ministry of one of today’s most anointed psalmists,Vickie Yohe. For more info contact 334. 613.3363 or www.anointedchurch.org

72

RSVP JAN/FEB 2012

BRENDLE REN TA LS 485 Eastern Blvd • Montgomery, AL 36117

(334) 279-7368 • brendlerentals.com

when? what? where?

Feb 19-Orion Quartet 3-5 P.M. Montgomery Museum of Fine Arts. Enjoy this classical music quartet and see why they are one of the most sought-after ensembles in the United States.

Performance followed by high tea. Admission charged. For more information, contact Julie Crane at 334.277.3505 or visit www.montgomerychambermusic.org Feb 19- B.B. King 8 P.M. Montgomery Performing Arts Centre. Don’t miss this living legend as he continues to reign as King of the Blues. Ticket prices vary. Call 334.481.5100 or visit www.mpaconline.org Feb 22-LunchWorks 12-1 P.M. Small Business Resource Center. Professionals at all levels can enjoy a light lunch while picking up additional work skills and ideas! Fees apply. Contact Heidi Powers at 334.240.6863 or hpowers@montgomerychamber.com Feb 23-Business After Hours 5-7 P.M. Jack Ingram Motors.This popular 2-hour networking event is the perfect place to exchange business cards and meet potential customers. Contact Lynn Norton at 334.240.9431 or Lnorton@montgomerychamber.com Feb 23-Small Business Expo 5:30-7:30 P.M. Capital City Club. Meet Capital City Club Small Business owners and create mutually beneficial relationships at this great networking event. This is great opportunity to support your local businesses and connect with your community. Register online or call the Club at 334834-8920 today to make your reservations. 334.834.8920 www.capitalmontgomery.com Feb 24-Black Jacket Symphony Presents U2’s “The Joshua Tree”

8 P.M. Montgomery Performing Arts Centre.The Black Jacket Symphony offers a unique concert experience by recreating classic albums in a live performance setting. Ticket prices vary. Call 334.481.5100 or visit www.mpaconline.org Feb 25-Orange Beach Seafood Festival and Antique

Car Show

10 A.M.-5 P.M. Orange Beach Sportsplex. Major fundraising event with arts, crafts and vendors featuring local artisans with handmade wares. Enjoy live music and an impressive car show including classic cars, hot rods and newer models.

Call 251.981.1524 or visit www.orangebeach.ws Feb 25- 3rd Annual “Getting Down with the Dogs”

Drawdown

6 P.M. Bonnie Crest Country Club. $100 will get you a delicious buffet dinner, beverages and a chance to win $10,000. Tickets are for sale at the Humane Shelter in Wetumpka or call Charline Pope at 334.202.1381. www.elmorehumane.org

74

RSVP JAN/FEB 2012

They just want to go where everybody knows their name.

Providing high quality pet health and wellness services to assist your pet in living a longer, happier, and healthier life.

• 24-HOUR HOSPITAL CARE

• NUTRITIONAL COUNSELING

• DAYCARE & BOARDING

• PAIN MANAGEMENT

• ON-SITE DOG POOL

• DENTAL CARE

• MICROCHIPPING

• LASER SURGERY

6897 ATLANTA HIGHWAY MONTGOMERY, AL 36117 Phone: 334-260-8787 www.taylorcrossingvet.com

TROY COUNTRY

They just want to go where everybody knows their name.

Providing high quality pet health and wellness services to assist your pet in living a longer, happier, and healthier life.

• 24-HOUR HOSPITAL CARE

• NUTRITIONAL COUNSELING

• DAYCARE & BOARDING

• PAIN MANAGEMENT

• ON-SITE DOG POOL

• DENTAL CARE

• MICROCHIPPING

• LASER SURGERY

Purchasing a Troy University license plate doesn’t just echo the pride and noble values on which TROY Country stands–it also helps put a student through college. Every plate sold contributes a generous donation to our Trojan Pride Scholarship Fund. Visit your local DMV or call the TROY Alumni Office today for more information at 334-670-3318.

t r o y. e d u

6897 ATLANTA HIGHWAY MONTGOMERY, AL 36117 Phone: 334-260-8787 www.taylorcrossingvet.com

9415.1-ALA-Cartag-3.68x4.9.indd 1

11/15/10 10:51 AM

Sloppy Joe < J

THIS IS

VENUE 411 Cantina Tortilla Grill is the result of mixing the curiosity and passion that our creator, Chef Guillermo Castro (RIP), had for Mexican culture and of course, its food. After opening the successful, upscale tapa-style Sol y Luna Restaurant in Birmingham over a decade ago, a new idea started to brew.

To create a Taqueria that not only featured the most popular dishes from Mexican cuisine, but plenty of delicious foods from all over the world. Our menu is what Guillermo used to call “A celebration of street food from around the world.” To complement such menu, the atmosphere of the restaurant was designed around colorful buildings which represent the old-style Mexican cantinas, where patrons are welcomed in the warmest possible way by our employees; and that too, was part of Guillermo’s idea: A place where customers feel themselves more like a family member than a client.

So Cantina Tortilla Grill was born, and after a superb response from our first two restaurants in Birmingham, we opened our third store and the first franchise last May here in Montgomery at The Alley Station.

Our Services

• Lunch and dinner service at all three locations (visit our website for details about our hours of operation) • Happy hour: 5 to 7 p.m., (Fall/Winter Hours) Margaritas $5, domestic beer $2 and imported beer $3.

• Private parties: reservations for private parties and events are available.

Want to have your friends and family together for the Superbowl? We can do that. The Oscars? We’re in. Anything you want, call us in advance and make your reservation.

• Catering: Services available across the Montgomery Area – including the Terrace at The Alley, right above our Montgomery location.

• Special events: to keep the spiciness in life, we regularly organize special events with DJs, tequila tasting, dancing and other fun activities.

• We also offer gift certificates, and believe us, that lucky person you’re giving the certificate to is going to be happy and satisfied. Promise!

• Enjoy the beautiful patios and outdoor bar, while drinking award winning beverages and chatting with our warm and friendly employees.

Follow us on Facebook.com/cantina.tortilla.grill .We look forward to serving you at our Montgomery store, located at 130 Commerce Street, Suite 103. Call us at 334.262.2339 or visit www.cantinatortillagrill.com.

Warm Regards from The Cantina Team.

76

RSVP JAN/FEB 2012

VENUE 411

The New Hob Nob, LLC is an up-scale retail clothing store, specializing in women’s clothing, hats and shoes. Also visit The New Hob for the best selection of women’s and men’s accessories. This is a family owned, operated and managed boutique that opened its doors in April of 1994 in the Historic District of Old Cloverdale. Come see why this store was voted #1 in Women’s Clothing and Award Winner for Special Gifts in the 2011 Montgomery Advertiser’s Readers’ Choice Awards. The atmosphere of The New Hob Nob has a charming ambiance that makes our customers comfortable and want to stay awhile. What’s important is how people feel when they step into “The New Hob Nob.” With a Full-Service staff that caters to your every desire, there is no need to shop anywhere else. The New Hob Nob carries ladies clothing from a wide variety of designers in sizes 2-34. A variety of clothing can be found here, including business, business casual, cosmopolitan, after five, bridal and formal wear. And to complete the look we have a host of purses, jewelry, belts, hats, hosiery, hair accessories and shoes as far as the eye can see.

To better serve our customers, “Lingerie by the Hob Nob” was opened in 2008. This store has all the unmentionables you will need to put a new spark in your life. No matter what the occasion or reason, The New Hob Nob has something to fit you and your budget.

Follow us on Facebook at www.facebook.com/thenewhobnob

(205) 914-4527

www.chefdavecarvesice.com chefdavecarvesice@hotmail.com

JAN/FEB 2012 RSVP 77

GDH

Gulf Distributing Holdings, L.L.C.

78

RSVP JAN/FEB 2012

Herron Aesthetics Mark Herron, MD, of Herron Dermatology, whom has long provided superior care to the Montgomery community, welcomes Master Aesthetician Michela King to his practice.

With resolute passion for exceptional care, Michela offers a variety of quality services that treat all facets of skincare conditions.

After extensive training at the School of Skin in Roswell, Georgia, Michela is thrilled to bring her expertise to her hometown.

The following treatments are available:

Microdermabrasion, sensi peel, ultra peel forte, dermaplane, triple peel microdermabrasion, blue peel radiance, Botox, fillers, lip wax and eyebrow shaping and clean-up.

“I chose this field knowing I would have the opportunity to greatly influence the way people feel about themselves.

Working with Dr. Herron, we give the most advanced and non-invasive treatments to meet our patients’ goals. It is a very emotionally rewarding profession.”

– Michela King

Call today for a consultation 334.322.6311 7260 Halcyon Summit Drive • www.herrondermatology.com

resource directory 129 Coosa Street, p. 68 129 Coosa Street Montgomery, AL 36104 334.262.8859 129coosa.com

Academy Events, p. 28

17 Coosa Street Montgomery, AL 36104 334.318.3047 academychefs@cs.com

Alabama Shakespeare Festival, p.70 One Festival Drive Montgomery, AL 36117 334.271.5353 asf.net

Arbors on Taylor, p. 71 485 Taylor Road Montgomery, AL 36117 334.386.2655 thearborsontaylor.com Arrow Rents & Party Professionals, p. 81

5600 Calmar Drive Montgomery, AL 36116 334.277.0460 arrowrents.net

AUM, p. 70

7440 East Drive Montgomery, AL 36117 334.244.3000 aum.edu

AlleyBAR, p.3 166 Commerce Street Montgomery, AL 36104 334.387.3333 alleybarmontgomery.com

Barbara Bonds, p. 29 7051 Fain Park Dr. Suite 200 Montgomery, AL 36117 334.215.4492

Alley Station, p. 45

201 South Union Street Montgomery, AL 36104 334.263.8800 2465 Eastern Blvd Montgomery, AL 36117 334.271.1831 baumhowers.com

130 Commerce Street Montgomery, AL 36104 334.277.1077 alleystation.com

Alfa-Billy Bradford, p. 76

4331 Atlanta Highway Montgomery, AL 36109 334.277.5785

All Med/Pri-Med, p.23 4305 Atlanta Highway 334.271.7051 34 Taylor Road North 334.272.7639 2815 East Boulevard 334.271.4545 1595 East Main Street, Prattville 334.361.3171 4452 US Highway 231, Wetumpka 334.567.8400 goallmed.com Allstate Beverage, p. 17, 78 130 6th Street Montgomery, AL 36104 334.265.0507 allstatebeverage.com

Baumhowers, p. 72

Brendle Rentals, p. 73 485 Eastern Boulevard Montgomery, AL 36117 334.279.7368 brendlerentals.com

Cantina, p. 67 130 Commerce Street, Suite 103 Montgomery, AL 36104 334.262.2339 cantinatortillagrill.com Capital City Club, p. 59 201 Monroe Street, Suite 2100 Montgomery, AL 36104 334.834.8920 capitalmontgomery.com

Charlottes Jewelry, p. 8 8161 Vaughn Road Montgomery, AL 36116 334.396.1919 charlottesdiamondjewelers.

American Cancer Society, com 74 3054 McGehee Road City Grill, p. 49 Montgomery, AL 36111 5251 Hampstead High 334.612.8177 Street cancer.org Montgomery, AL 36116 334.244.0960 American Rental and Tent Company, p. 30

3371 Atlanta Highway Montgomery, AL 36109 334.277.6443

80

Clefworks, p.66

www.clefworks.org

RSVP JAN/FEB 2012

Colorbox, p. 7

334.491.0409 colorboxphotographers.com

Corner on Dentistry, p. 39

Dr. Camille Phillips-DMD 2415 Central Parkway Montgomery, AL 36106 334.277.2424 thecornerondentistry.com

Darren Freeman Photography, p. 60

334.215.7827 darrenphotography.com

David Bromley Ice Sculpture, p. 77

P.O. Box 130681 Birmingham, AL 35213 205.914.4527 chefdavecarvesice.com

Davis Theatre- Troy University, p. 55

251 Montgomery Street Montgomery, AL 36104 334.241.9567 montgomery.troy.edu/davis

Filet and Vine, p. 49 431 Cloverdale Road Montgomery, AL 36106 334.262.8888 filetandvine.com www.gracephotographystudio. com

Lingerie by Hob Nob, p. 77 1609 South Decatur Street Montgomery, AL 36104 334.230.9886

Hampstead, p. 20-21

Look Boutique, p.33

5251 Hampstead High Street Montgomery, AL 36116 334.270.6730 hampsteadliving.com

Heidi’s Fine Jewelry, p. 63

7857 Vaughn Road Montgomery, AL 36117 334.239.7700 heidisfinejewelry.com

Hello Gorgeous Photography, p. 31

hellogorgeousphotography.com

Herron Dermatology, p. 79 7260 Halcyon Summit Drive Montgomery, AL 36117 334.277.3332 herrondermatology.com

Dreamland BBQ, p. 29

Emerge Montgomery, p.34, 73 600 South Court Street, Suite 544 Montgomery, AL 36104 334.262.2261 emergemontgomery.com

hue Studio, p 69.

8155 Vaughn Road Montgomery, AL 36116 334.239.8884 huestudioinc.com .

Jack Ingram, p. 84 227 Eastern Blvd.

Montgomery, AL 36117 334.260.7213 jackingramaudi.com

Enlove Photography, p. 67 334.561.0107 enlovephotographyanddesign. com

ER Med, p. 37 Baptist Medical Center East 400 Taylor Road Montgomery, AL 36117 Baptist Medical Center South 2105 East South Boulevard Montgomery, AL 36116 Prattville Baptist Hospital 124 South Memorial Drive Prattville, AL 36067 334.272.1050 ER-med.org Eve’s Studio, p. 68

2026 Clubview Street Montgomery, AL 36106 334.262.8888 evesstudiollc.com

Faulkner University, p. 76 5345 Atlanta Highway Montgomery, AL 36109 334.386.7210 faulkner.edu

334.264.1116 lesliebaileycatering.com

Grace Photography, p. 46

Hob Nob, p. 55 1603 South Decatur Street Montgomery, AL 36104 334.263.2254

101 Tallapoosa Street Montgomery, AL 36104 334.273.7427 dreamlandbbq.com

Leslie Bailey Extraordinary Events, p.74

Jim N’ Nicks, p.49 6415 Atlanta Highway Montgomery, AL 36117 334.213.0046 2250 Cobbs Ford Road Prattville, AL 36066 334.290.1000 jimnnicks.com Kim Box Photography, p.5 West Main Street Prattville, AL 36067 334.491.0409 kimboxphotography.com

Laser Wellness, p.25,61 370 St. Lukes Drive Montgomery, AL 36029 334.213.0700 alabamalaserwellness.com Lemongrass Salon and Spa, p.69

5251 Hampstead High Street, Unit 105 Montgomery, AL 36116 334.356.5495 lemongrasssalonandspaal.com

1048 East Fairview Montgomery, AL 36106 334.239.7537 2469 Pinnacle Way Prattville, AL 36066 334.290.0928

LULU’s Attic to Antiques, p.29 946 Plantation Way Montgomery, AL 36117 334.593.7852

Marquirettes, p.2

7818 Vaughn Road Montgomery, AL 36116 334.270.0074 marquirettes.com

Marriott-Legends at Capitol Hill, p. 51 2500 Legends Circle Prattville, AL 36066 334.290.1235 marriottcapitolhill.com

Mini-Flex Storage, p.73 4220 Troy Highway Montgomery, AL 36116 334.281.4446 aminiflexstorage.com alabamatruckrentals.com

Momma Goldberg’s Deli, p.71 7960 Vaughn Road Montgomery, AL 36116 334.517.1071 mommagoldbergdeli.com

Montgomery Ballet, p.64

2101 Eastern Boulevard, Suite 223 Montgomery, AL 36117 334.409.0522 montgomeryballet.org

Montgomery Humane Society, p.57

1150 John Overton Drive Montgomery, AL 36110 334.409.0622 montgomeryhumane.com

Montgomery Museum of Fine Arts, p.39

One Museum Drive Montgomery, AL 36117 334.240.4369 mmfa.org

Montgomery Performing Arts Centre, p.4 201 Tallapoosa Street Montgomery, AL 36104 334.481.5100 mpaconline.org

Montgomery Zoo, p.63 2301 Coliseum Parkway Montgomery, AL 36110-3250 334.240.4900 montgomeryzoo.com

Serotonin Plus, p.39

MOTIV8, p.77 334.201.6844 motiv8america.com

287 Mitylene Park Drive Montgomery, AL 36117 653 McQueen Smith Road Prattville, AL 36066 334.782.5081 spweightlossmd.com spdiet.com

Nails O Naturel, p.55

Southern Bridal

NShape, p.66

State Farm Insurance, p.63

8448 Crossland Loop, Suite 163 Faire, p.15 Southernbridalfaire.com Montgomery, AL 36117 334.782.4137 Spa Elia, p.42 nailsonaturel.com 8243 Old Federal Road Montgomery, AL 36117 New Park Living, p.82 334.239.9300 9430 New Park Drive spaeliamontgomery.com Montgomery, AL 36117 334.215.9215 Spa at Renaissance newparkliving.com Montgomery, p.53 201 Tallapoosa Street Nikki P. Montgomery, AL 36104 Photography, p.75 334.481.5210 334.221.3715 spaatmontgomery.com nikkipphotography.com 334.233.8675 nshapefitness@live.com

Obelisk Healthcare, p.19 4705 Woodmere Boulevard Montgomery, AL 36106 334.558.0262 obeliskhealthcare.com Palomar Plus, p.83 8193 Vaughn Road Montgomery, AL 36116 334.270.0105 palomarplus.com

Breck Honea 61 Market Place Montgomery, AL 36117 334.272.8423 breckhonea.com

Studio 4619, p.34 8073 Eastchase Parkway Montgomery, AL 36117 334.271.3778

Regions Mortgage, p.72 8301 Crossland Loop Montgomery, AL 36117 334.213.1340 regionsmortgage.com

Taylor Crossing, p.75 6897 Atlanta Highway Montgomery, AL 36117 334.260-8787 taylorcrossingvet.com

The Tipping Point, p. 20 5015 Hampstead High Street Montgomery, AL 36116 334.260.9110 tippingpointhampstead. com

Riverfront Facilities, p.51

Thomas Patterson,

Pine Bar, p. 33 501 Cloverdale Road Montgomery, AL 36106 334.239.9061 thepinebar.com

334.625.2100 funontheriver.net

RSVP Bridal Ad, p.10 334.356.4598 rsvp-montgomery.com Saint James School, p.65 6010 Vaughn Road Montgomery, AL 36116 334.273.3000 stjweb.org SaZa Pizza, p.6

138 Commerce Street Montgomery, AL 36104 334.495.7292 sazapizza.com

p. 64 Aronov Realty, p.

334.399.0454 Thomas@ ThomasOPatterson.com

Troy University,

p.13, 75 troy.edu

Troy University at Montgomery, p.81

231 Montgomery Street Montgomery, AL 36104 334.834.1400 montgomery.troy.edu

Talk.Meet.Learn.

Laugh.Dance.Dine.

Discover Whitley Hall Montgomery’s former Whitley Hotel is today a state-of-the-art conference center, banquet hall and educational center.

• Perfect for seminars, workshops, receptions, dinners, luncheons and other social or professional events • Advanced wireless audio/visual equipment • Large and small classrooms available • Computer labs with Internet access • Full-service catering • Free parking

The Waters, p.11 334.273.3200 watersal.com

Learn more at 334-241-9543 or e-mail kbedsole@troy.edu

6790-2-ALA-MONT-WhitleyHall 4.95x4.9.indd 1

A future of opportunities

6790-2-ALA-MONT 4.95X4.9

11/18/08 9:26:38 AM

New Park News New Home Prices. New Builders.

Now from the high $100s!

W

hatever your new home needs, we can make them happen at New Park.

With a variety of new floor plans starting in the high $100s to custom homes designed just for you, there’s a New Park lifestyle that will fit your budget. G

A New Way of Life With Features No Other Neighborhood Can Offer!

N

ew Park is the River Region’s only new home neighborhood that

offers a variety of beautiful home styles with an array of price options—ranging from the perfect starter home to custom dream homes—located in the city’s popular east side and home to Montgomery’s newest elementary

T H I S

J U S T

I N

school and YMCA! Live where life is a breeze. At New Park!

New is Smarter.

G

Don’t settle for a foreclosure or

a short sale home. Discover the better value of a brand new home in New Park.

New Plans & Features New Energy Efficient Options Means Less Upkeep & Maintenance

New Convenience!

James W. Wilson Jr. Elementary and Johnnie Carr Middle School, entering their third year of serving New Park families.

New Schools! Montgomery’s East-Side High School Announced.

W

hen you live at New Park, you’ll be within walking distance of

E X T R A !

E X T R A !

Move In Ready Homes!

Come by and take a tour today.

New Park Welcomes Our Newest Builder D.R. HORTON!

Montgomery’s newest Elementary School and Middle School. Plus, the location for Montgomery’s new east-side high school was recently Road Construction is underway on Taylor Road to Ray Thorington Road Connector so getting to Taylor Road, I-85 and Highway 231 will be even easier!

announced and it’s only two miles from New Park.

NEW PARK PARTNERS WITH EARTH FARE TO PROVIDE A WELCOME HOME BASKET JUST FOR YOU.

For the latest neighborhood news and promotions, follow us on Facebook.®

G

The new neighborhood from Jim Wilson & Associates

334.215.9215 newparkliving.com

New Park Drive, off Ray Thorington Road

added service is our policy added options, too

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