RSVP Montgomery - September 2011

facebook.com/mpactheater

SEPTEMBER “WEIRD AL” YANKOVIC THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 29, 2011 · 7:30 P.M. Three-time Grammy winner, “Weird Al” has been entertaining audiences for nearly four decades. With favorites like “Amish Paradise,” “Like a Surgeon” and the new Lady Gaga parody “Perform This Way,” he is bringing his unique brand of comedy to the MPAC stage for the first time. His most recent album, Alpocalypse, is his highest-charting album of his career coming in at #9 on the Billboard 200.

O C TO B E R CHICAGO FRIDAY, OCTOBER 14, 2011 · 7:30 P.M. The first American band to chart Top 40 albums in five decades, Chicago continues to impress recording executives and wow audiences across the nation. The band’s style has been copied but never duplicated, and now they are bringing their signature sound to the MPAC stage. Since Chicago started recording, they have amassed 100,000,000 in record sales, 21 Top 10 singles, 5 consecutive Number One albums and 11 Number One singles. Don’t miss this legendary group.

BLACK JACKET SYMPHONY PRESENTS: LED ZEPPELIN IV THURSDAY, OCTOBER 27, 2011 · 8:00 P.M. The wildly successful Black Jacket Symphony returns to the MPAC stage to perform Led Zeppelin’s album “Led Zeppelin IV.” The group uniquely recreates some of the most famous albums in history with a one-of-akind show featuring hand-picked musicians specifically chosen to fulfill each musical detail of the album. The sound is a perfect duplicate of the original. The Black Jacket Symphony will perform the album in its entirety followed by a full set of Led Zeppelin’s greatest hits.

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.

definitions:

Is my insurance agent a friend or a cashier?

in•de•pend•ent in•sur•ance a•gent

[in-de-pen-duh nt in-shoor-uh ns ey-juh nt]

noun 1. an insurance agent who has access to multiple insurance companies.

2. free to represent the client’s best interests.

cap•tive in•sur•ance a•gent

[kap-tiv in-shoor-uh ns ey-juh nt]

noun 1. an insurance agent employed by one insurance company.

2. interests are almost exclusively for the insurance company he represents.

st

ar

ke y

D N E I FR

Friend.

When you think about your insurance agent, what comes to mind? Is it the bad memory of working out the details alone after the already bad memory of the accident? How about the operating system you have to navigate every time you try to call her. And when you submitted your last claim, did you feel more like a friend or a suspect?

Or do you have an agent that cares more about you than her convenience?

Introducing , an independent agency that is loyal to you.

Call or come see us today. We are local to the River Region.

Trip Strickland

210 Commerce St, Montgomery, AL, 36104

trip@mystarke.com

334.263.5535 • www.myStarke.com Some of our trusted carriers:

334.387.4324 334.318.9402

Direct Cell

ADD FLAVOR TO THE FALL The Renaissance Montgomery Hotel & Spa at the Convention Center has options for everyone, whether looking for a place to unwind at the end of the day or a night filled with fine dining. The Exchange Bar & Lounge offers cocktails, beer and world class wines, plus a menu of burgers, sandwiches and more. For a more elegant atmosphere, try The House Restaurant, which features steaks, flatbread pizzas, pastas and other entrees.

Join us at The House for a free Signature Maryland Jumbo Crab Cake appetizer with the purchase of two adult dinner entrees!

Use your smartphone for the QR Code to redeem this special!

RENAISSANCE MONTGOMERY HOTEL & SPA AT THE CONVENTION CENTER 201 Tallapoosa Street Montgomery, AL 36104 t: 334.481.5000 renaissancemontgomery.com facebook.com/TheHouseMontgomery facebook.com/TheExchangeMontgomery 6

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

RSVP SEPT/OCT 2011

Get a quote & be entered to win an Apple TV!

What do you have to lose?

Give us your information once, and we’ll do all the work. We market your coverage to our 15+ insurance carriers, and show you the best option(s). Start your auto, home, or life insurance quote online or by phone. Either way, you’ll be entered to win an Apple TV. And since it’s a local contest, the odds of winning are pretty good. But hurry, the drawing takes place November 1, 2011.

210 Commerce St, Montgomery, AL, 36104

334.263.5535 • www.myStarke.com

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RSVP SEPT/OCT 2011

here,

waves

THE BIGGEST aren’t in our

LAKES.

introducing

LINDA, RESIDENT SINCE 2004

$239,000 f r o m $269,000

WELCH COVE, 3 B e d / 2 b a t h f r o m 4 Bed/3 bath

It’s a place for people from all walks of life, where people actually walk everywhere. It’s where front porches are the favorite room, and where your neighbors are your friends.

It’s where life moves at a slower pace, but everything you need— including EastChase— is a quick 10 minutes away.

It’s simply a better way of life.

life r e f r e s h e d .

PIKE ROAD SCHOOL, ANNOUNCED FOR FALL 2015

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Just 10 minutes from EastChase, take I-85 to Exit 16 to Marler Road Prices subject to change

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RSVP SEPT/OCT 2011

See your future through.

Your future is what you make of it; and making the right decision in choosing a university to continue your education is paramount in bringing that future to fruition. Troy University’s Montgomery Campus has graduate and undergraduate degree options, with day, evening and weekend classes to accommodate any schedule. Call today and see how TROY can help you!

29 complete evening degrees.

Montgomery Campus | 888-357-8843 | Find us on Facebook

| troy.edu SEPT/OCT 2011 RSVP 11

M O R E T H A N 6 0 S H O P S A N D R E S TA U R A N T S , I N C L U D I N G : D I L L A R D ’ S | F R A N C E S C A’ S C O L L E C T I O N S | B U C K L E AMERICAN EAGLE OUTFITTERS | TALBOTS | CHICO’S | CACHÉ | LOFT | GAP | COLDWATER CREEK WILLIAMS -SONOMA | A N N TAY LO R | B A N A N A R E P U B L I C | V I C TO R I A’ S S E C R E T | N E W YO R K & C O M PA N Y N A I L S B Y E L I Z A B E T H | 3 2 ° , A YO G U R T B A R | PA N E R A B R E A D | B O N E F I S H G R I L L | L A J O L L A R E S TA U R A N T O P E N I N G S O O N : D S W S H O E S | YA N K E E C A N D L E | V E R S O N A A C C E S S O R I E S T H E S H O P P E S AT E A S TC H A S E A R E LO C AT E D AT E X I T 9 O F F I - 8 5 N AT TAY LO R R O A D T H E S H O P P E S AT E A S TC H A S E . C O M | FA C E B O O K . C O M / E A S TC H A S E

16 reply YES

Styles and Trends to Consider

Fall Into Style

22 singled OUT For the Love of the Game

28 two are BETTER Unmask your Creativity

30 Feature Story An inside look at ASF’s new leading man: Juri Henley-Cohn

34 socially SEEN

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38 Applause & Appraise 40 the LIST A Who’s Who of Young Leaders

48 IN motion:

Where’s the Next Tee?

50 Special Feature:

eat, breathe, football

52 mommy SAYS SO Training Day

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

56 Take 5 Five Get Your Head in the Game

58 Friends, Trends, Odds & Ends

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Photography by Carter Photography & Design

60 Now Hear This

- a look at local sound

Symphony Turning 13 Black is a Jacket milestone birthday 62 face when?it, what? where? are not and let’s teenagers always76easy to please.

Lucky resource DIRECTORY for us, planning was made easy when birthday girl Payton Traff knew exactly how she wanted to celebrate becoming a teen.

ON THE COVER ASF’s New Leading Man: Juri Henley-Cohn Photo by: Delissa Santos

SEPT/OCT 2011 RSVP 13

from the GIRLS The River Region Guide for All Things Social vol. 4, Iss. 5 publisher kim traff Editors amanda mccoy amanda morrison Creative Director carl adams Contributing Designers bryan carter summer patterson Contributing Photographers bryan carter darren freeman brooke glassford hello gorgeous photography josh moates delissa santos

I

t’s hard to believe that summer has come and gone and that we will soon be trading in our flip flops for boots. But thankfully, the transition is an easy one. We relish fall in all its beauty, excitement and energy. The girls at RSVP love this season, and fall fashion has a whole heck of a lot to do with it.

The spread in Reply Yes features stylish looks paired with must-have fall wardrobe staples and fabulous jewelry. Our passion for fashion resulted in RSVP Montgomery and Hello Gorgeous Photography teaming up for a 2011 Model Search. The RSVP Magazine Release Party in November will include a fall fashion show featuring 15 models with the most votes, and we have almost 40 entries. Voting begins on September 1, so get involved on Facebook and help us select the models you would like to see in our 2012 fashion features.

Halloween is another fun season and isn’t just for kids anymore. Some of our readers sent in their ideas for couples costumes that we hope will trigger creativity between you and your spouse this season.

If you missed Black Jacket Symphony performing Pink Floyd’s Dark Side of the Moon at the Montgomery Performing Arts Centre, you missed an incredible show. It was one of the best shows I have ever attended. I was thrilled to learn they are coming back to MPAC with more incredible shows, including Led Zepplin IV, Michael Jackson’s “Thriller” and Prince’s “Purple Rain.” Check out the feature Blue Sullivan wrote in Now Hear This for more on Black Jacket Symphony, and be sure to get your tickets early as their shows always sell out!

Last but not least, big kudos to the 1,500 paddlers that participated in the Montgomery Dragon Boat Race Festival on August 27. The enthusiasm and creativity behind the team names and team tents were just way too fun. There were nearly 7,000 people downtown for this incredible festival and it was by far the best event I have ever seen in our awesome city. I cannot wait to race again next year!

As always, we want to hear from you. Tell us what you like, love or hate… we have, and will continue to consider all of your comments. If you don’t receive our weekly email blast, be sure to go to our website and sign up to receive the weekly updates so you can be in the know and in the now!

Happy fall!

Contributing Writers doug amos peyton dismukes amanda mccoy brad spear blue sullivan RSVP Team mallory anderson crystal strickland IT Director charles kamerling Advisory Board keith cousins karl dabbs ken woodard mike watson

Photo courtesy Carter Photography & Design

Coming up on the Riverf ront Monday, September 5th (Labor Day) at the Riverwalk Amphitheater. Gates open at 10am.

Music begins at 11am Last act on at 7pm with Riverboat cruise at 8pm. Cruise is only $10 with purchase of a festival ticket. Performing artists: Hart Ramsey, Reggie Hines, Kim Scott, Roman Street, Garibaldi Mariachi Band, Hot 8 Brass Band and The Recreators. Concessions are available and picnic baskets and coolers are permitted. Tickets are $15 in advance and $20 day of.

Saturday, October 8 on the Riverwalk. 1:00-4:00p.m. Come enjoy live music and sample over 100 different wines. Food will be available for purchase by participating restaurants. Tickets are $25. The Renaissance Hotel offers discounted room rates for the Riverwalk Wine Festival at $150 and includes two tickets to the festival. www.riverwalkwinefestival.com Harriott II Wine Cruise- 5:00-7:00p.m. (cruise boards at 4:30). This cruise will sell out so be sure to purchase your tickets in advance! Enjoy live music and concessions while the Harriott II takes you down the River on an evening cruise.

Saturday, October 29 from 8:00-11:30 P.M. Adult Cruise Only. Hors D’oeuvres and cash bar available. Tickets are $39 and can be purchased by calling 334.625.2100.

Coming soon...

More Information funontheriver.net 334-625-2100

reply YES

Fall into

STYLE

With something as fickle as fashion, sometimes it’s challenging to remain on the cutting edge of the trends. With fall quickly closing in, focus your attention on cheering on your favorite college football team, and leave your wardrobe up to us. Here are a few must-have pieces for your fall collection:

Ivory dress with lace sleeves: The Look Boutique. Two-toned sparkles headband, gold and silver layered nugget necklace and garden charms bracelet: Banana Republic. Steve Madden ‘Candence’ boots: Dillard’s.

By Crystal Strickland and Amanda McCoy Photography by Aubrie Moates/Hello Gorgeous Photography Hair and makeup by Rebekah Edwards/Lush Makeup Art 16 RSVP SEPT/OCT 2011

Poppy silk dress and misty grey necklace: hue Studio.

Black sweater and animal print skirt: hue Studio. Shiny stone necklace: Banana Republic.

SEPT/OCT 2011 RSVP 17

Plum chiffon dress and black lace tights: The Look Boutique.

Blue belted denim blazer, python scarf and flare jeans: Gap. 18

RSVP SEPT/OCT 2011

Don’t forget to complete your look with select pieces from Banana Republic:

Garden Charms Bracelet

Swan Beaded Ballet Necklace

Braided Gold Hoops

Beige bow top, skinny jeans, green military jacket: Gap. Antonio Melanie flower shoes: Dillard’s Green Animal Print Clutch

singled OUT

By: Amanda McCoy

A

lthough some of us might not like to admit it, when we find ourselves happily attached, we are guilty of practicing the signage of his last name and secretly have our bridal color scheme already selected. We simply can’t help it.

But when we find our ‘his and her’ plans shattered and his side of the closet now permanently empty, we often wonder, “Why do I do this to myself? I’m out of the game for good.”

He came out of nowhere and blindsided you, and what appeared to be Happily Ever After hastily dissolved into Surviving Thereafter. For me, nights once illustrated by pillow talk and culinary experimentation soon became a blur of blaring Alanis Morissette circa 1995 and cheap wine. No matter the cause of the ending, whether it be one isolated act or the gradual disintegration of the bond, the crushing feeling of failure can’t be shaken. Rather than running the risk of getting tackled again, we remove ourselves from the roster. It might appear that this is succumbing to fear, but sending your heart back out on the field before you’re ready can be lethal. We all need time to mentally and emotionally prepare before we put ourselves through the grind again. Taking this much needed timeout is crucial in the healing process, and we have the right to bench ourselves for as long as we deem necessary.

Everyone has their own way of handling a split. For some, Rocky Road ice cream and Doris Day movies seems to be the most comforting remedy, while others find consolation in horror films and a dart board with a picture of his face glued. Some swear off dating and adopt a pet instead, and others plunge headfirst into another relationship. No matter what medicine one finds therapeutic, whether it’s distraction, mourning, grievance or anger, we all go through a process before we are ready to really love again. The process may vary with what stage of life we currently reside.

Because I’m young, I’ve been told I have nothing but time, but in a society where a large helping of my peers have already

or are on the brink of exchanging vows, I can’t keep myself from wondering if something is wrong with me if I don’t yet feel ready for marriage. Post college, I’ve dedicated my time to adapting to the challenges of “the real world,” and have recently found myself in a selfish state of coveting to discover what it is that I want out of life. On my last birthday, my mom awarded me with a small token of wisdom scribbled onto a greeting card that read, “Life isn’t about finding yourself, but creating yourself.” It’s a fairly common tagline plastered across refrigerator magnets and Facebook statuses, but the eight small words sparked something in me. Instead of unearthing what we think we are supposed to be, we get to decide for ourselves. This could involve goals, dreams, choices, career paths, friendships and yes, even relationships. This realization is a confounding but beautiful thing.

So for those of us that have found we’ve lost the game, maybe we can find comfort in using this time to dig deep enough to discover what we want the next time around, despite the pain caused and mistakes made. Maybe we’ll never positively know when we’re ready to get back out on the field, but we do know that wounds, no matter how severe, have a way of washing away.

It doesn’t matter how many times we quit, we always end up reaching for the helmet again.

We might put ourselves through hell, but we do it for the love of the game.

SEPT/OCT 2011 RSVP 23

Town building, design, & construction are an evolving process. The Hampstead master plan, features, floor plans, & pricing may change without notice due to a variety of considerations. Any illustrations are artist’s depictions only & may differ from completed improvements. This is not an offer to sell real estate property. Information is correct but not warranted. Void where prohibited by law. Equal Housing Opportunity. Š 2 0 11

SHAPE UP! By: Amanda McCoy Illustration by: Christie Schmitz

For many of us, the idea of reaching for a dumbbell after an 8-hour (or more) work day is nearly unthinkable – the word exercise means chasing your children around the house trying to wrestle them into clean clothes. But most of us are aware that – according to the Center for Disease Control and Prevention – the average adult should complete 2 ½ hours of moderate exercise per week for substantial health benefi ts. The good news is you don’t need to be chained to a gym to get yourself in shape, nor do you need expensive at-home exercise equipment – simply strive to work the following exercises into your everyday life.

Forget the treadmill and take your family for a walk every night after dinner. In addition to exercise, you are also being rewarded with family time without the distraction of TV, video games, music, etc.

Plant a garden. Gardening is exercise in disguise – by tending to it every day, you are burning calories while working toward a goal, and your family is awarded with fresh fruit or vegetables.

Take tennis lessons. Even if your hand eye coordination is below par, taking lessons from a local tennis pro will not only improve your game, but also your fitness level.

Even in the fall, Alabama heat is extreme, so finding the motivation to get outside isn’t easy. Cool off with a family pool day – but remember to do a couple of laps every hour or so.

It’s the little things: It might sound clichéd, but making small tweaks in your everyday life can yield a vast difference long term – start parking in the back of parking lots, do calf raises while cooking dinner, opt for the stairs rather than the elevator or make a goal to work in 20 push-ups every morning.

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路 Fitness Facial 路 Treatment for hard working nails and feet 路 Sun repairing skin care products 路 Keratin Express for great looking hair 2026 Clubview St. - Montgomery www.evesstudiollc.com 334.262.8888 Lauren Webster UAB Softball SEPT/OCT 2011 RSVP 27

two are BETTER

Unmask your creativity Halloween season is creeping up, and we all know that dressing up is not just for Trick-or-Treaters. This season, embrace your inner child and challenge your creative side with your significant other to concoct an original His-and-Her costume. RSVP readers offered a few ideas!

Thanks to everyone who submitted their pictures. We enjoyed all of them!

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

SEPT/OCT 2011 RSVP 29

An inside look at ASF’s new leading man:

Juri HenleyCohn

By Amanda McCoy Photography by Delissa Santos

Juri will be performing in Alabama Shakespeare Festival’s production of Dracula from October 7-30. For ticket information, visit www.asf.net or call the ASF Box Office 800.841.4273.

ehind the hauntingly handsome stare pertinent to his forthcoming role as Bram Stoker’s chilling character Dracula, lies a classic all-American tale of pursuing seemingly unviable dreams. Unlike the typical thespian success story, San Francisco born Juri Henley-Cohn didn’t stem from a childhood saturated with acting classes, nor did he dream of red carpets and Oscars at a young age. Rather, subsequent upon graduating from high school, Juri left his New Haven, Connecticut home to begin his secondary education as a social anthropology major at Harvard University, with no concrete plans for the future.

Although he always found an interest in science, after pouring countless hours into math and science labs, Juri began to question his chosen path. It was pure chance that he befriended an avid theatre patron, and although Juri was skeptical, he accompanied his friend to Harvard’s common casting, where he was given his very first role in an outdoor children’s play titled The Rose and the Ring. And from then on, he never looked back.

Upon the play’s completion, Juri began to immerse himself in HRDC, Harvard’s undergraduate theatre club – and not just in the spotlight. His newfound avocation led him to spend a summer as an apprentice at the renowned Williamstown Theatre Festival, where he acquired a comprehension of all facets of theatre, including

stage management, production, lighting, and yes, even maintenance.

“During that summer, I was given a job picking up cigarette butts outside the theatre with a rubber glove, and even doing that I was happy, happier than I was in labs back at school, because I was around the theatre. It was then I knew that this was what I wanted to do.”

The rising star went on to perform in 11 productions during his time at Harvard and became more enthralled with each succeeding role. When he received his degree, in an unprompted gesture, Juri packed up everything he owned and jetsetted to the West Coast to chase his silver screen dreams.

New to Los Angeles and still relatively green, he enrolled in numerous classes with many talented teachers, including the famously prominent acting coach Larry Moss, whom has also nurtured megastars such as Leonardo DiCaprio and Helen Hunt.

“I owe him so much,” the Eastern European hunk humbly admits. “I took as many classes with Larry as I could. It was only then that I began to get the hang of what I was doing and became any good.”

After years cultivating his craft in the City of Angels, Juri returned East in 2006, where he has continued to gain recognition as an actor in what is a notoriously cutthroat industry. The scene stealer will soon be arriving in Montgomery to bite into Halloween’s most infamous figure, Count Dracula.

“[It’s]…jump out of your seat, grab the stranger next to you and hang on for dear life fun!”

-Louisville.com

October 7–30

Adapted by William McNulty Originally dramatized by John L. Balderson and Hamilton Deane from Bram Stoker’s Dracula

AlAbAmA ShAkeSpeAre FeStivAl

montgomery, Alabama 1.800.841.4273 www.ASF.net

The BigTop

★ Friday ★

Oct

14

7 p.m.

★ ★ ★ ★ ★ ★ ★ ★ in The center ring

Dinner, Dancing Entertainment by THE HOT TODDIES FLAMING CABARET ★ ★ ★ ★ ★ ★ ★ ★

S P O N S O R E D

B Y

Tickets

Call 280-3349 MAOI.org 32

RSVP SEPT/OCT 2011

Photography by

Jon Cook

interactive.advertising.social.media.content

Behind the Camera: (RSVP) How do you get inside the head of a character?

(Juri) I pay really close attention to what the writer wrote; I want to honor the writer and the story. You start getting a sense of the relationships and start layering in all your character’s components at once. You put all the ingredients together a little at time. At the beginning it’s a messy and sloppy process, but with time the character and performance begin to take shape.

(RSVP) How are you going to prepare for your role as Dracula?

(Juri) I have to work at all the components at once. For example, I’m going to start working with the accent at the first rehearsal, even though it will be terrible in the beginning! [laughs] My job is to reveal the character, and tell the story vocally, physically and emotionally. So as I prepare, I search for choices and actions that will reveal the character in all those different ways.

(RSVP) What drew you to the character Dracula?

(Juri) For one, there’s the historic significance and overall cultural impact of the character. I was drawn to it because there’s a very interesting story present. What drives someone to pursue immortality? It speaks to some of our darkest fears. When you look at the need for love, the human desire to conquer death, fear and Dracula’s desire to claim these women (Lucy and Mina), it becomes a much more compelling and, believe it or not, human story.

(RSVP) Do you have a preference among film, TV or theatre?

(Juri) I like it all – it’s all a great challenge. The theatre is where an actor can really grow and take on challenging material. You take the journey of the character from the beginning to the end. Once the curtain goes up, it’s you and your fellow actors and the story. Film and television is great too because it captures the truth – the camera sees everything.

Downtime with our Dracula star: • • • •

Juri and his wife currently live in Brooklyn The newlyweds have a “baby” in their puppy, Magnum PI Kitesurfing is Juri’s outdoor activity of choice You can also find Juri in a CrossFit box, on ski slopes or enthralled in a good book • A true aficionado of his profession, Juri loves to attend the theatre • The Harvard graduate also has a strong interest in environmental science • If he ever retires from acting, Juri would love to go into teaching

Photography by Carter Photography & Design

Turning 13 is a milestone birthday and let’s face it, teenagers are not always easy to please. Lucky for us, planning was made easy when birthday girl Payton Traff knew exactly how she wanted to celebrate becoming a teen.

About 80 friends gathered for a night filled with dancing, mingling and contests as Alley Station’s Ballroom was transformed into “Club PAY.” As co-eds approached entry, their hands were stamped with an official party stamp by a hired security guard who was quite large and intimidating, despite his nickname “Tiny.”

Party go-ers danced the night away to a light show and music from Birmingham’s very own DJ

Daddy as projection screens displayed today’s hottest hit videos. Movie passes and iTunes gift cards were given to the winners of Hula Hoop contests and musical chair games with chairs made from the gentlemen taking a knee.

As guests worked up an appetite, they made their way to the food table with food provided by SaZa and The Deli. “Mocktails” in custom cups garnished with fruit and glowsticks were served from the bar. For those wanting to catch their breath or do a little flirting, the VIP alcoves were the perfect spots to chill.

The candy station surrounding the glittered number “13” ice sculpture created by Chef David Bromley and the beautiful and tasty cupcakes prepared by Cake Designs left sweet tooth cravings for none. Candy bags were available for those wanting to take home a sweet memory.

Superstition may have some convinced that the number 13 is unlucky, but that was definitely not the case for this fabulous birthday celebration. It was a night to remember for all!

The Strickland-Luster Wedding June 11, 2011

Photography by Josh Moates and Kim Box | Kim Box Photography

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RSVP SEPT/OCT 2011

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fairytale 10 years in the making was culminated on June 11 at half past six in the evening at The Oaks Plantation, when our very own Crystal Starr Luster exchanged vows with Robert “Trip” Leonard Strickland III after a decade of courtship. The combined talents of RSVP and event planner Jackie Gaut rendered an enchanting ceremony. Guests were mesmerized as the bride, draped in a stunning Rivini lace gown from The White Room, was escorted down the aisle by her father as The Lamb Family Violin Ensemble harmonized beautifully in the background.

Crystal carried a bouquet of pink and white peonies and roses cut from Dana’s Floral Design that complemented the soft summer theme of the evening. As she reached the end of the aisle, the glowing bride clasped hands with the groom, wearing a tan poplin suit touched with pink and his heart on his sleeve. The pair was married by Reverend John Ed Mathison under a dazzling archway adorned with delicate pink peonies, roses, green hydrangeas, orchids and hanging crystals that subtly danced in the breeze.

Following the ceremony, guests feasted upon a delicious

assortment of Southern style cuisine from Tammy Griffin’s ‘A Catered Affair’ that included pimento cheese burger sliders; giant fried green tomatoes; a ham carving station; chicken, shrimp and beef skewers; mashed potato bar; banana pudding shooters and much more. An elegant five-tiered cake laced with pink ribbon and an indulgent chocolate peanut butter cake were baked by Peggy McKinney, and the feasting selection was topped off with a multi-flavored popcorn station that offered take-home bags. Outside, the lit up dance floor was in a permanent buzz as 2nd Coming Band kept guests dancing into the night. Ladies slid out of their high heels and into pink and brown complimentary flip flops before rocking to the band’s Motown sound. When the evening came to a close, the elated couple was granted farewell with sparklers and then set sail for St. Lucia.

A special thanks to Jackie Gaut of Dana’s Floral Design, Melissa Moore Bogardus Hair and Makeup, A Catered Affair, Kim Box Photography, Darren Freeman Videography, Peggy McKinney Design Productions

Menopause the Musical

By Amanda McCoy Women dread it, men don’t understand it, but everyone is fully aware of the meaning of those two infamous words.

The Change. The Alabama Shakespeare Festival embraced this notorious milestone in every female’s life with Menopause the Musical – a hilarious comedy celebrating the beauty (and sometimes misery) of womanhood. Set in every shopaholic’s ultimate temple, Bloomingdale’s, Menopause tells the story of four women, all strangers, going through The Change, one song re-make at a time. From hot flashes to mood swings to the lingerie section, the audience is kept roaring from “Chain of Fools” all the way through “YMCA.” The singing stars all have distinct personas that include the ambitious executive, sporting a designer business suit and huge voice; the charming yet narcissistic soap opera star, petrified of wrinkles; the housewife and former cheerleader that now only cheers when she makes it to the ladies’ room on time; and finally, the wild-haired free spirit that swears by meditation and Prozac. I recommend the musical for women of all ages – you will probably never think of hit classics “What’s Love Got To Do With It?” and “Only You” again (and you’ll have to go to see why), but it’s totally worth it.

Darryl Worley

By Jonalan Wright Photo by Bryan Carter Nothing goes better together than fishing, trucks and good ole’ country music. This is why BassMasters knows exactly how to hook those things together. BassMasters brought in Darryl Worley as a part of the evening entertainment for July’s BassMasters Championship held here in the Capital City, and they really know how to put on a party. Darryl’s ordinary American common sense approach to music offered fans a reassurance that someone feels the same way they do. You can “Keep the Change” as he says. After the unfortunate bus breakdown and technical difficulties, Darryl brought musical heat to the Union Station Train Shed that rivaled the hot Southern summer night.

Playing to a nice size crowd, he provided an hour and ten minutes of music that “Sounds Like Life to Me.” He played through his catalog of must plays from “I Miss My Friend” to the thought provoking 9/11 anthem “Have You Forgotten?” The crowd erupted when they were reminded that “We don’t have to worry about Bin Laden” as he closed the show. For a free show, concert goers were treated to a great evening of music that was worthy of a ticket, but BassMasters never fails to deliver at no charge.

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T H E S H O P P E S AT E A S T C H A S E

GO PINK!

THE MONTH OF OCTOBER Go Pink at your favorite stores and restaurants in October! Join The Shoppes at EastChase, Joy to Life and other partners in a month-long celebration of hope, strength and survival.

To get your Shop Pink Guide and complete schedule of events, drop by Guest Services or visit theshoppesateastchase.com.

SEPT/OCT 2011 RSVP 39

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By Blue Sullivan • Photography

by Josh Moates SEPT/OCT 2011 RSVP 41

KEITH DANIELS Keith Daniels, CEO of Remarkable Properties, believes in the art of the deal. “I enjoy putting deals together that allow a family to acquire a piece of the American Dream,” he enthuses. A graduate in business finance from Troy University and a 10 year veteran of the United States Air Force, Keith began as an Associate Broker with Aronov Realty, where he worked for three years prior to branching out on his own. Those early years were a learning curve in and outside the office, and Keith credits his cousin, Mike Jackson, as the person who has most aided his current success. “He has shown me so much in the area of how to run a business,” Keith explains. “Without him exposing me to the world of Real Estate, I don’t know where I would be today.” Outside of work, Keith and Remarkable Properties have just finished hosting, along with Daniels and Associates, the first Annual Military Appreciation Event titled “Picnic in the Park...

A Hero’s Welcome” at the Ida Bell Young Park. As a proud father himself, Keith is also aggressively putting together a non-profit that will benefit underprivileged children and families. “Our mission is to provide after school activities, counseling and mentorship for kids whose families cannot afford to send them to YMCA’s and the like.”

STEPHANIE HOSKINS

celebrating SAINT JAMES SCHOOL

talent since1955

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.

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Promoting the art of graceful movement is the noble profession of Stephanie Hoskins, Marketing Director for the Montgomery Ballet. At the tender age of 25, Stephanie has already made a name for herself. A graduate from Auburn Montgomery in 2009 with a bachelor’s degree in business administration with a focus in marketing, she is currently working on her MBA at AUM. Where does this ambition and pursuit of excellence come from? “I owe all my success to the love, wisdom and guidance of my parents,” she humbly explains. One part of her vocation has been to promote the Ballet on television, and despite her seeming ease on TV, Stephanie admits to some butterflies the first time she went on air. “I really thought I was going to be sick to my stomach right before,” she says, adding a laugh. “But now it doesn’t bother me at all. I really enjoy it!” Outside of promoting the brilliant dancers and their electric performances, Stephanie is equally busy concocting her own cooking blog, An Aspiring Gourmet Chef (see Look Listen Lounge for more info). When she gets a chance to rest, Stephanie does so with her husband Jeff and their beloved rat terrier, Ophelia. “She is the other love of my life!”

JOSH JOHNSON For Josh Johnson, Meteorologist for WSFA 12, keeping an eye on the sky has been a lifetime activity. “I started drawing weather charts when I was 6 years old,” Josh notes. “When I was 13, I would use our family computer to type up forecasts and fax them to some of my family members at work.” It’s that same dedication that has allowed Josh to work in the business since college. At 19, Josh started doing weather at an ABC affiliate in Meridian while still in school at Mississippi State University. “They paid me $35 per broadcast, barely enough to pay for my gas money to drive back and forth,” he says, laughing. Yet from these modest beginnings came his first full-time position, as Josh was offered the chief meteorologist position at the same ABC station only a few months after his graduation from MSU. In July 2008, Josh joined the WSFA team. Asked what his favorite part about his job, he doesn’t hesitate. “Being on TV isn’t what it’s about for me. I am a weather geek, and I really enjoy meeting and talking to people about the weather.” In addition to his normal duties, Josh speaks to thousands of kids each year about the weather. Also a nature buff, Josh spends his downtime hiking, camping and kayaking with his wife, Mary.

the LIST

SEPT/OCT 2011 RSVP 43

the LIST

MEGHAN COCHRANE Stories of courage and hope are what fuels Meghan Cochrane, Executive Director of the South Alabama Pensacola Muscular Dystrophy Association. The South Alabama Pensacola MDA Chapter serves more than 400 families in 34 counties with over 43 different types of neuromuscular diseases.

“The families we serve have had the biggest impact on my success,” says Meghan. “I work harder and harder every day to fundraise to be able to provide the services we can for our families.” The Auburn Montgomery graduate began as a fundraising coordinator with the MDA. In less than two years, she was promoted to the Executive Director, but despite her quick success, Meghan has faced obstacles.

“I’ve had to overcome the stereotype of being young and inexperienced to lead an office with a million dollar budget,” she notes. “But I love knowing at the end of the day, what I am doing makes a difference in the lives of others.” Locally, MDA recently held a summer camp for the children in the state of Alabama that have a type of muscular dystrophy, and Meghan credits the community for the wonderful support it has provided for events such as this. At home, the former Zeta Tau Alpha-Theta Nu Chapter President relaxes with her husband Brad and their dogs, Charlie and Milo.

SYLVESTER FOLKS Sylvester Folks is the rare sort of Montgomery Police Officer who is both a protector of the peace and a playwright.

Despite what one might assume, the two professions aren’t incompatible. “As a police officer, I love the role of being a public servant,” Sylvester explains. “As a writer, some stories are inspired by the personalities and lives of the citizens I’ve encountered, and others are combinations of my life experiences. “ Upon graduating from Faulkner University, Sylvester began work as a teacher at Prattville Christian Academy. Joining the police force in 2007, he faced the same initial stresses that many young officers face. “The biggest fear I had to overcome was believing in myself and knowing that I would not fail the community or my fellow officers in the time of need.” He credits his family with providing guidance during uncertain times, with his father and uncles having held positions in law enforcement. As a writer, Sylvester credits his grandfather as his greatest influence.

“He was the embodiment of never giving up, no matter what comes at you in life.” As a synthesis of his two vocations, Sylvester finds great joy in producing local education stage plays, and has both written and produced plays “Halo” and “Coloreds of the Confederacy” for Montgomery Public Schools. At home, he enjoys a happy life with his wife and their 10-month-old son, Clark.

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JESSAMYN BOYD With so much emphasis on current news and concerns about the future, it’s easy to overlook the many lessons that can be found in our rich past. For Jessamyn Boyd, Curator for the Alabama Department of Archives and History, preserving the past is her life’s passion. While achieving her master’s degree in historical administration and public history from Florida State University, she also worked with the Alabama Department of Archives and History, the John and Mable Ringling Museum of Art and the Florida State University Heritage Protocol at the College of Nursing, documenting and exhibiting their memorabilia. In her current role, Jessamyn tells the sweeping story of Alabama to others. “I get to share aspects of our history that many people either do not remember or have never heard of,” she explains. “To see the looks on people’s faces when they view a Civil War uniform or the chair that Martin Luther King, Jr. sat in before the Selma to Montgomery March – that’s what I work for.” When she isn’t helping preserve Alabama’s fascinating history, Jessamyn is deeply involved with the Montgomery Humane Society, where she serves on the Board of Directors. She is especially proud of her wonderful Jack Russell terrier, Willoughby. “You may have seen him in the ‘Bark for Your Park’ video,” she adds. “He is such a star!”

JUSTIN TYLER MOODY Offering solid financial footing in an uncertain economy is the mission of Justin Tyler Moody, Residential Investment Realtor for Partners Realty. Justin represents investors that are looking for tangible assets in order to diversify their investment portfolio. In his work, Justin handles everything from single family residential homes to multi-million dollar apartment complexes. He spends hours and hours studying local market transactions and trends, searching for value for his clients. “Having this knowledge of every transaction in every micro community allows me to recognize when an opportunity presents itself,” he explains. “Arming myself with the knowledge to keep my investors, customers and friends ahead of the curve is what I pride myself on.” By involving himself in transactions from a variety of markets, Justin has seen his business thrive when so many others in real estate have been forced to close up shop. He is also an active member of First Baptist Church with his wife Lacey and is a “fanatical” fly fisherman and bow hunter. At home, both he and Lacey have a “son” in the form of their oneyear-old English Bulldog, Scooter.

the LIST

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EDWIN MARTY For Edwin Marty, Executive Director of the Hampstead Institute, rediscovering the vitality of farmland is his life’s passion. After completing an apprenticeship in agroecology at the University of California-Santa Cruz, he worked on agricultural projects around the world, including Mexico, Australia and Mongolia. Ten years ago, Edwin returned to his home in Birmingham to launch a non-profit urban farm called Jones Valley Urban Farm, an institution which has since grown to see immense success. This past summer, Edwin relocated his family to Montgomery and started the Hampstead Institute, a project which includes the development of an urban farm in downtown Montgomery, a suburban farm at Hampstead and the creation of youth education programs that will provide a direct connection to healthy lifestyles. Before returning to Alabama, Edwin felt some trepidation. “I think I feared coming back to the South and being the only person that cared about the issues I’ve been working on,” Edwin explains. “Fortunately…I’ve been overwhelmed with enthusiastic support here in Montgomery.” With his wife Andrea—whom he describes as his greatest influence—and their 1-and-a-half-year-old daughter, Edie, providing love and support, Edwin is excited for the future. In addition to his tireless work with Hampstead Institute, he has authored a new book titled Breaking Through Concrete that will be published in January 2012. For more information, visit www. breakingthroughconcrete.com.

COURTNEY GILES Ensuring a bright future through reading is the job of Courtney Giles, Literacy Specialist at Brewbaker Primary School. Since graduating with a certification in educational administration from Alabama State University and receiving her education specialist degree in elementary education, Courtney has worked in education for nine years, serving as a teacher then reading coach. Today, she believes she’s in exactly the right job.

“It gives me pleasure to collaborate with the teachers, administrators, parents and faculty at large about the tasks and responsibilities that are involved in providing the students we serve with meaningful learning opportunities,” she says. In addition to her mother and father, Courtney credits her community for aiding her in her vocational quest. Her job has rewarded Courtney with a range of opportunities to network and become more aware of societal needs, and this knowledge has spurred her on to write articles on the subject of education. It’s no coincidence that her 8-year-old son Avion has developed a love of reading with his mom’s wonderful influence, as Courtney notes that the bookstore has become their favorite place to visit on the weekends. In addition to her work, Courtney is committed to community involvement as a member of Leadership Montgomery Emerge Torchbearers Class III and is both an aspiring author and Educational Consultant.

JOSEPH WOOD How many people in the River Region can say they are a Master Stylist and a competitive skydiver? Joseph Wood, owner of 2940 Salon-Spa, can proudly say he is both. His journey to entrepreneurial success began 20 years ago. “I started at Itz Robertz Salon on October 1, 1991, making $4.50 an hour as the Shampoo Boy,” he explains. “Thirteen years later, I bought the company.” Joseph takes great pride in the knowledge that has been the only job of his life. “It has been a wonderful road thus far, full of highs and lows and an experience that I would not trade for anything,” he says, advising that the way to happiness is “to find a home and stay there!” Joseph attributes a great deal of his success on his travel throughout the country and the world, noting that these influences have allowed him to create a serene environment at 2940. His also describes the loyalty of his clients and co-workers as an essential component in his good fortune. When he isn’t beautifying the local populace (or jumping out of an airplane), Joseph is a highly active participant in regional events like Joy to Life, Cuts for a Cure, the Turkey Burner 5-K run, Zoo Boo, the Montgomery Half Marathon and the Family Sunshine Center.

SEPT/OCT 2011 RSVP 47

IN motion

By Brad Spear Asking myself how, I get back into the cart disgusted. Just moments ago, I stood on the ninth tee box like a proud father ready to put his beautiful child to bed. Just one more hole.

Nothing could stop me.

Coming off the birdie on eight, all I needed was a par to shoot a personal best on nine holes of golf. I took my Callaway Heavenwood 3-hybrid off the tee to stay short of the water, and I split the fairway. With about 125 yards remaining, I had put myself in perfect position to hit my pitching wedge. I executed my routine meticulously: two practice swings, positioned the club by the ball, settled my feet, interlaced grip and backswing. Gah-blosh! The sound of the line drive skull shot forging its way into the water hit my ears at the exact moment my brain registered the horror of all I had lost.

“You may not want to hear this, but you have to hit again,” explains my hardhearted brother who sits in the cart next to me. My face sinks a few leagues deeper into my hands, and I move onto asking myself why.

Golfers of all levels experience rounds that leave them asking such questions. Yet, these are not the questions that come to mind when someone asks you to play golf. You never think about the good or bad shots you might play or why you play them. No, the more important questions are “when” and “where.” If you are like me, the “when” is a little out of your control.

However, the following summaries should help provide answers to the always essential question, “Where to play?”

The first time I played the Lagoon Park Golf Course was more than 10 years ago. While I cannot tell you what I shot, I do remember that the fairways were well groomed and plush green.

The trees around the course were strategically placed to make the course challenging, yet inviting. The greens were fast, especially for the Montgomery area, but they took the ball well.

Next to each green and under every tree lived at least one fox squirrel whose size rivaled that of the gopher in Caddyshack. I enjoyed it from the very beginning. It is not the exact same course today, as all courses go through periods of change. Lagoon has had its share. Several years ago the course replaced some of the greens that were struggling, and sometimes such repairs can be detrimental to a course’s livelihood. However, Lagoon is just as beautiful and challenging today as it was 10 years ago. “The City of Montgomery deserves the credit,” explains John Sadie, the general manager and golf professional at Lagoon.

“The City has always been willing to support the golf course and keep it in great condition without charging the public too much to play.” At $25 for 18 holes with a cart on Friday afternoon, he gets no arguments from me. If you can avoid feeding the giant fox squirrels, you won’t find better golfing value.

You don’t have to live in the Montgomery area to know the next course. Truthfully, you don’t even have to live in Alabama. The Robert Trent Jones Golf Trail at Capitol Hill is the only facility on the trail that boasts three championship 18-hole courses. That is 54 full-length holes. There are other stops on the trail with three courses, but one of them is always a short course (all par threes). This unique design allows Capitol Hill the ability to have two and three course shotgun start tournaments. Basically, that means the facility can accommodate some 360-400 players at one time. I have been lucky enough to play in a lot of tournaments there, and I always have a great time. The courses are all beautiful, but very different from each other, the staff is friendly and organized, and most important for me, the food after the tournaments is worth the ticket price. Of course, there is no need to wait for a tournament to enjoy the trail. With the three courses, Capitol Hill is more than capable of handling your golf party any day of the week.

Whether you prefer pot hole bunkers and green mounds (the Senator), pine trees and elevation

changes (the Legislator) or the scenic views of the Alabama River (the Judge), you will not be disappointed.

The story I recalled for you earlier took place at Tallapoosa Lakes, the course I play the most.

Having played it for over 15 years, I was able to pick myself back up and post a pretty good score on the back nine. When I began playing golf, Tallapoosa Lakes wasn’t the exact same course.

The West side was an 18-hole course called River Run, and the East side was an 18-hole course called Kolomi. Now, Tallapoosa Lakes is a combined 36-hole golf facility complete with a fully stocked pro shop and restaurant.

While these sound like big changes, they aren’t the most significant. I have never seen either course in better shape than they are today. I have played both sides in the last month, and I was impressed. The conditions evidence the fact that The Poarch Band of Creek Indians is committed to making Tallapoosa Lakes a golf course any player would be proud to call home.

I spoke with Robby Wallace, the general manager at Tallapoosa Lakes, who said that while they are very excited about the current course conditions, they are even more excited about the upcoming plans. These plans include over seeding the entire course for the cooler seasons, the reconstruction of holes 16 and 17 of the West, along with many other cosmetic changes. Knowing what Tzhe Poarch Band of Creek Indians has been able to do so far, I am eager to see the future of Tallapoosa Lakes. So much so that I foresee myself there this weekend.

My game is not what it once was, so I will likely be questioning a lot of my shots.

The next time you start asking yourself how or why, if you aren’t on the golf course, ask yourself a different question. Specifically, “Where would I rather be?” If you decide one of these golf courses, then you are on your way.

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eat, breathe, football

By Doug Amos It’s often said that in the state of Alabama, football is a religion. And as uncomfortable as that statement may make some, including me, there are stories circulating through our rabid fanbase that sure make you wonder.

Stores close on Iron Bowl Saturday, dueling spouses don’t speak for days and, yes, even sacred ceremonies such as exchanging wedding vows are modified, all because of a football game.

Think I’m exaggerating? Think again.

One needs only to hear the story of a friend of mine (who’ll remain unnamed, of course), who was engaged to be married back in the mid 1980s. Documented stories of couples breaking down the Auburn and Alabama schedules before choosing a wedding date are widespread, but an unfortunate scheduling quirk forced my friend and his future bride to pick the third Saturday in October.

For those of you who are passionate about college football, you see where this is headed. With no other viable options, these two University of Alabama graduates had no other choice – they were to begin their lives together on the same day, and at the same time actually, as one of the oldest and most storied football rivalries in the South taking place in Birmingham. While the Crimson Tide and the Volunteers of Tennessee were doing battle at Legion Field, my friend was at

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a local church, all decked out in a tuxedo.

He and his groomsmen were a creative bunch, however, and had a television smuggled into a back room of the church, allowing them to catch as much of the game as possible. (The primary reason why names and location are being withheld is because the minister who was to perform the ceremony was right there with them to the last possible second.)

One groomsman actually took things a step further, actually numerous steps further.

He was wired for sound. Just picture a Secret Service agent, minus the glasses. During the ceremony, he was listening to every play, doing his best to not reveal any emotion on his face. As the ceremony wound to a close, and the newly married couple made their way out of the sanctuary, the aforementioned minister whispered a question to the only person in the building who could possibly know the answer.

“What’s the score?”

There are no doubt hundreds of similar stories that shed a directed light on what college football means to folks in the Heart of Dixie, many of which would most assuredly confirm just how misguided many fans become each and every fall. Some are just downright unbelievable, making one wonder whether to laugh hysterically or cry.

You might think the following accounts are

fiction. They are not, which even has me shaking my head as I recall them.

There’s the gentleman who had been transferred to a new job out of state, but needed to sell his home in south Alabama before he could move his family with him.

The rabid Auburn fan was literally sick to his stomach when he discovered the buyers of his house were Crimson Tide supporters through and through.

Despite the fact that this transaction would reunite his family, it was a tough pill to swallow. He just couldn’t let it go. When moving weekend arrived, and as all the furniture was being transported to the truck, this gentleman took a few extra sinister minutes back in the living room before departing. Back in the corner, where his big screen television had been located, he knew of a place on the floor where the carpet was easily pulled back. After also manipulating the pad underneath, he took a Sharpie pen and wrote, “War Eagle Forever.” The sick feeling in his gut was gone, and he left for the final time the house he’d lived in for 15 years with a wry smile. It provided one last enjoyable moment for a fan before leaving the state where college football is a yearround phenomenon. By the way, you may ask the question “How do you know that story is true?” Easy answer – the guy is my cousin.

There is no “football season” in Alabama.

SEC WEST

9/3 9/10 9/17 9/24 10/1 10/8 10/15 10/22 10/29 11/5 11/12 11/19 11/26

A M A AB AL

S SA N KA R A

Kent State @Penn State N. Texas Arkansas

Missouri State New Mexico Troy @Alabama Texas A&M

@Florida Vanderbilt @Ole Miss Tennessee Open LSU @Miss. State GA Southern @Auburn

A ID R O FL

SEC EAST

9/3

Florida Atlantic

9/10

UAB

9/17

Tennessee @Kentucky Alabama @LSU

9/24 10/1 10/8 10/15 10/22 10/29 11/5 11/12 11/19 11/26

@Auburn Open Georgia Vanderbilt @S. Carolina Furman Florida State

N UR B AU Utah State Miss.State @Clemson Florida Atlantic @S.Carolina @Arkansas

Auburn Open @Ole Miss @Vanderbilt S.Carolina Tennessee

Florida @LSU Ole Miss Open @Georgia Samford

Miss.State @LSU

Alabama

Y CK U NT E K

A GI R O GE

U LS Oregon Northwestern State @Miss.State

@Memphis @Auburn LSU

@West Virginia Kentucky Florida @Tennessee Auburn Open @Alabama Western Kentucky

Louisiana Tech @Georgia @UAB South Carolina Open @Kentucky

@Ole Miss Arkansas

S.

A IN L RO CA

Boise State S.Carolina

Western Kentucky Central Michigan

East Carolina @Georgia

Coastal Carolina @Ole Miss Miss.State

Louisville Florida @LSU

Navy Vanderbilt Auburn

@Tennessee @Vanderbilt Open @Florida

@S. Carolina Open Jacksonville State Miss.State

Kentucky @Miss.State Open @Tennessee

New Mexico State Auburn

Ole Miss @Vanderbilt

Kentucky @Georgia Tech

@Georgia Tennessee

Football season is broken down into four phases – regular season, recruiting season, spring practice and pre-season. Whether good or bad, we live in one of the few places where this rivalry plays itself out every single day of every single month.

Perhaps no two fanbases are as geographically or personally close as those at Auburn and Alabama. One of the first questions asked of people moving into the state for the first time is “Who is it gonna be – Auburn or Alabama?” And with the back-to-back national championships now safely tucked away, the level of fandom will do nothing but rise from here. It seems so crazy to admit that’s even a possibility.

But when it comes to loving college football, and perhaps getting our priorities a bit out of perspective because of it, nobody can measure up to the fans in our state. Just ask the minister who’s first thought after pronouncing that couple “man and wife” on that allimportant Saturday was who was winning a football game. (You COULD ask him, if only I’d give you his name).

OY TR 9/3 9/10 9/17 9/24 10/1 10/8 10/15 10/22 10/29 11/5 11/12 11/19 11/26 12/3

@Clemson Open @Arkansas Mid. TN State UAB @LA Lafayette LA Monroe @Florida Intern.

Open @Navy North Texas Florida Atlantic @We. Kentucky @Arkansas

E AT T S S. IS M

Tennessee Martin Alabama @Arkansas Ole Miss

E SE S NE N TE

S IS EM L O Brigham Young Southern Illinois @Vanderbilt Georgia @Fresno State Open Alabama Arkansas @Auburn @Kentucky Louisiana Tech LSU @Miss. State

DY N VA

Montana

Elon

Cincinnati @Florida Open

Connecticut Ole Miss @S. Carolina

Buffalo Georgia LSU @Alabama

Open @Alabama Georgia Army

@Arkansas Florida

South Carolina Middle TN State @Arkansas

Arkansas @Florida Kentucky

Citadel Clemson

Vanderbilt @Kentucky

@Tennesee @Wake Forest

ER KN L U FA

N DO G IN NT U H

U AS

@Miss. Valley State @E. Michigan Grambling State @Jackson State Alcorn State @Texas Southern Prairie View A&M Open @Alabama A&M @Univ. AR-Pine Bluff Southern Open Tuskegee* Open

Open Ave Maria Huntingdon @Pikeville Shorter @Belhaven @Cumberland Campbellsville @Bethel Cumberlands Union Open Open Open

@Maryville

@Birmingham Southern Faulkner Hampden-Sydney @Univ. of New Orleans Wittenberg @Trinity Webber Intern.

Open LaGrange @Wesley Open Open Open

mommy SAYS SO

Training Day

By Amanda Zaremba

This is not necessarily the topic I would prefer to discuss, but considering it’s a shattering impact on my life, I suppose it’s a must.

It started as all potty training does.

A general overview, basic sanitation knowledge, and tools were provided (over and over again). Locations were designated, special toddler training assistants were purchased and placed – positive encouragement was abound. But Chase simply wouldn’t budge. He quickly took to the idea of using the toilet for getting rid of “number one,” but the other? No way.

“Disinterested” doesn’t even cover it.

Chase slowly began to protest the idea all together. He’d ask for a diaper every single time. Eventually, he became more self-sufficient and would at least BRING you a diaper and possibly even the wipes.

This was his Everest.

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Yes, I tried everything – we tried everything. But this kid was determined to ‘go’ in some sort of close-to-his-rear garment until the end of time. I was honestly beginning to picture how he’d work that out on a date, at his wedding and even when he had children of his own.

“Tomorrow is today,” my mother told him early Thursday morning. “No, tomorrow,” he’d reply.

It became so involved that when I began refusing to diaper the 3.5-year-old manchild, he’d go get one, lay in the floor and ATTEMPT TO DO IT HIMSELF. Something had to give, and soon, before Chase’s most laudable achievement became diapering himself.

“We should go to the potty!” I was THRILLED. What if this worked?

“OK!!!” and he ran. Literally, he ran to the bathroom.

Oy. Then, last week, something gave. The diapers, which have been removed from the home on multiple occasions, were once again “gone.” Chase had recently begun to tell me (and all those who are around him) that he’d go “tomorrow.”

Friday was a different tomorrow though, and Chase popped up from a land of Legos and building blocks with a face that screamed “bathroom! now!”

A slightly nervous Chase climbed up on the toilet and began his business. Not a few seconds later he exclaimed with pure glee “I can do this!”

That’s right, child of mine, you can. We all do. And with that I gained two fully potty trained children. Thank you, dear sweet Lord.

Mark Pierce Michael Gallops David Peel

Junie Pierce Jim Wilson Coleman Farrior

Bobby Kohn Scott Cawthon Steve Mullis

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We are entering the sweet spot this time of year, ladies and gents. This is the time of year where the weather graciously begins to turn from paintmeltingly hot to breezy, sensual perfection. I have experienced weather all over this country, and I would hold up our fall football evenings against any weather, any place, any time. Maybe you’ve lived here all your life, and you’ve come to take fall in the River Region for granted. Then let this be your reawakening on the first of those brilliant nights. Breathe deep and feel the excited flow of blood through your body. Nights like those are a magical thing, if you only stop to notice.

Following this joyous celebration of the coming of fall to our city, this edition of the triple-L comes to you bearing gifts—fun film, music and a great new blog. You are welcome.

LOOK: Fright Night A recent study in Psychology Today offered a surprising finding about what is the perfect “date” movie—a horror flick. Apparently our brains are wired to respond to fear and arousal in exactly the same way, so every time your date jumps at a scary moment, their brain subconsciously registers desire too. With that in mind, check out this slick remake of an 80s horror classic. Colin Farrell plays a mysterious stranger who moves into a sleepy suburban community. When his teenage neighbor becomes convinced that this stranger is a vampire, all hell breaks loose in a sinister game of cat and mouse. Get ready to hold your date tight, kids.

LISTEN: Foster The People – “Pumped Up Kicks” This debut single from this cool LA collective has become a surprise smash on modern rock radio. Perhaps you can chalk up some of the success to perfect timing. Nothing on radio better captures this time of year. With sleepy beats and the soothing repetition of its catchy, almost-whispered chorus, “Pumped Up Kicks” seems to float on the autumn breeze, urging you like a soft siren to seek out those you love and share in the moment—this one, right now.

SURF: An Aspiring Gourmet Chef

http://anaspiringgourmetchef.blogspot.com/ As a man who has historically sloughed off cooking anything that doesn’t fit comfortably into my microwave, this blog is a bit of a godsend. With easy to follow recipes and instructions, this site has made this lazy bachelor into a burgeoning gourmand. The brainchild of Stephanie Hoskins (featured in The List this month), An Aspiring Gourmet Chef is a destination worth visiting again and again, because Stephanie adds simple (but great) new recipes all the time. The grilled salmon with brown sugar and soy glaze is a personal favorite.

WHAT’S ON

TAP?

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

BEST BBQ!

Auburn Montgomery Certificate Programs Event Planning

Pharmacy Technician

Are you a planner who loves to organize gatherings and wants to put your passion to work?

Are you an executive assistant with experience planning events and who wants to advance your career? This comprehensive certificate program encompases the event and meeting sides of the industry and provides participants with the broadest career opportunities possible. Events range from weddings to concerts, banquets to trade shows and themed parties to conventions.

The variations are endless and so are the opportunities!

Learn to help the pharmacist package or mix prescriptions, maintain client records, refer clients to the pharmacist for counseling, assist with inventory control and purchasing, as well as collect payments and coordinate billing. This program includes 77 hours of classroom instruction, including skills practice, providing a comprehensive review and preperation for the Pharmacy Technician Certification Examination.

Program Dates

Program Dates Sept. 27, 2011 - Dec. 15, 2011 6 - 9:30 p.m. (Tue & Th) AUM Center for Lifelong Learning

Jan. 17 - May 15, 2011 5:45 - 8:45 p.m. (Tues) AUM Center for Lifelong Learning

Register at www.aum.edu/coned or call 244-3804

Get your head in the game As the weather begins to cool, make sure your hair looks hot! Football is in the air, and the five products below are sure to tackle your hair worries all season long.

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Control Force

by Aveda

Full Root Lifting Spray Mousse Substantive

by Living Proof from Kérastase

Achieve a hairstyle that holds all day with this hairspray from Doug’s 2 Salon-Spa. This fastdrying formula with 24hour humidity defense and UV filters will protect your hair the whole game, no matter the weather.

Looking for volume that screams TOUCHDOWN? Look no further than Olivia A Salon for this volume boosting product which is formulated with a unique, proprietary blend of resins that give your style volume and lift that is strong yet flexible and long lasting.

By: Peyton Dismukes

You’re sure to score healthy hair with this product from L´Esprit Salon Da´ Spa. This long lasting hold mousse hydrates the hair while providing solid volume and is packed with vitamin F, collagen, calcium, pomegranate extract and UV filters.

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Dry Shampoo Lift Smooth Infusion Style Prep Smoother Powder by Keratin Complex

by Aveda Get your hair out of the Split End-Zone with this product from 2940 Salon and Spa. The exclusive plant infusion creates a smooth surface on hair that serves as a heat and humidity defense, making styling faster and easier.

Photography by: The Studio at EastChase

Small enough to carry in your purse but strong enough to clean your hair without water, even after hours of tailgating! This dry shampoo lift powder from Eve’s Studio cleanses the scalp and absorbs excess oil while leaving your hair free of odor. This refreshing product is for all hair types and protects your hair’s nutrients.

BassMasters Elite Series Congratulations to Keith Poche (remember him from our May/ June cover?), who was presented with the Wounded Warrior Award during BassMasters Elite Series on July 30.

Montgomery Area Transit System is going green! MATS recently received eight new Hybrid buses to replace buses in use, which will reduce emissions and raise fuel efficiency.

MATS is the first transit system in the state to receive Hybrid buses.

Lush Makeup Art – After five years as a Yeti Coolers

– Parade even more spirit this season with Auburn and Alabama themed Yeti Coolers, found at TLR Outdoors.

Known for its utmost durability and superior ice retention, the Yeti Cooler is built to outlast years of abuse, through camping, hunting, kayaking or tailgating.

master makeup artist, Rebekah Edwards launched Lush Makeup Art in January of this year and has since witnessed unimagined success. Also a hairstylist, Rebekah’s beautiful artistry has been beckoned at weddings, photo shoots, fashion shoots, proms and even cover shoots. She is local to the Montgomery area but is available for travel. You can glimpse her brilliant work in the fashion pages of RSVP, including this issue’s Fall into Style and the July/August cover story of Lauren Leonard’s Leona. Visit lushmakeupart.com or find her on Facebook.

The AUM Center for Lifelong Learning

– The Division of Continuing Education at Auburn University at Montgomery has relocated to the Center for Lifelong Learning located in the Alabama Technacenter Business Park. The newly renovated building now houses all of Continuing Education’s staff offices, in addition to 16 classrooms with projectors and removable walls to compensate for any size group. “This move allows us to create new programs, as well as offer more programs,” offers the Continuing Education Marketing Coordinator Wendy Daehn. “When we were housed on campus, we were very limited because we had to share space with academics, so this has given us the opportunity to grow the Continuing Education department.”

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- a look at local sound

BLACK JACKET SYMPHONY By: Blue Sullivan

Have you ever fallen in love with a classic album from the 60s or 70s and then lamented that you will never have an opportunity to hear it live? The Beatles are beyond resurrection with only Paul and Ringo still with us, and the Stones don’t play much off “Exile on Main Street” in concert anymore.

As for Pink Floyd, their visionary leader Roger Waters and then the rest of the band haven’t been on speaking terms since the early 80s. It’s the curse of the young classic rock aficionado to never hear their favorite songs performed, because fate dictated they were born too late.

Photography by: Mary Margaret Chambliss

Well don’t despair, young rockers, because Black Jacket Symphony is on your side.

Formed in 2009 by J. Willoughby, Black Jacket Symphony has been bringing classic rock ecstasy to audiences in the form of full performances of such seminal rock albums as Pink Floyd’s The Dark Side of the Moon, the Beatles’ Abbey Road and in a highly anticipated show coming to the Montgomery Performing Arts Centre on October 27, Led Zeppelin’s IV. This isn’t just a guy in your local pub doing Allman Brothers covers, either. Each performance features a full band of hand-picked musicians with the absolute intention of re-creating each album’s sound

as perfectly as possible down to the last detail.

The musicians so closely approximate the sound and power of the original songs that, after seeing Black Jacket Symphony perform “Abbey Road,” no less than John Lennon biographer Jude Kessler said, “It wasn’t the Beatles…but if you hadn’t been told, you wouldn’t have known.” In addition to the world class music, Black Jacket Symphony brings a feast for the eyes as well in the form of an incredible light display.

RSVP sat down with J. Willoughby to discuss his acclaimed musical brainchild in advance of his band’s performance in October.

RSVP: How long have you been doing this?

J. Willoughby: The first Black Jacket Symphony show was ‘Abbey Road’ on May 28, 2009.

RSVP: How did the band first come about?

JW: It was my idea. I realized ‘Abbey Road’ was 40 years old. It came to me that these albums were truly symphony of an entire generation.

RSVP: Who or what inspired you to become a musician?

JW: The Beatles. Pure and simple. I became a Beatles fan at the age of five and started taking guitar lessons at six.

RSVP: What were the first records you fell in love with growing up?

JW: ‘Meet The Beatles’ hooked me. Then I bought all the rest after I cut grass to be able to purchase them. From then on because of them, I started checking out other artists they thought were cool. The Rolling Stones, The Who and even Little Richard, Carl Perkins and others.

RSVP: What artists have most influenced your personal musical style?

JW: I know I’m getting redundant but....John Lennon and Paul McCartney are absolutely first. Tom Petty was a big influence later as a band leader and front man.

RSVP: How do you determine what albums you will be performing?

JW: It’s got to be deemed “classic” by our board—me. But I try to take it out of just my personal taste and think long and hard about what the audience wants to hear. Our manager, Jason Rogoff, keeps me in check with this.

RSVP: How is it determined who you will employ for a given performance?

JW: I go through whatever album as closely as I can with a fine tooth comb to find out what will be needed instrumentally. Then we search to find the right person for each part.

RSVP: How much do the visuals aid your own experience performing?

JW: A whole lot. The musicians are all wearing black to try to take the focus off of them individually and make it about the music itself. The video/visual aspects give the audience more to take in, and it is woven in with the performance.

RSVP: What modern artists do you like?

JW: I like some singers/songwriters. Rachel Yamagata is great. I also love Feist.

Matisyahu is amazing.

RSVP: What’s on your iPod right now?

JW: The Doors’ first album, “TheDoors,” because that is what we are currently working on for our next show in Birmingham.

RSVP: What artists outside of music influence your work?

JW: I’m a biography and documentary fan.

Most are about musicians and music though.

I guess I’m obsessed.

RSVP: What has been your favorite live experience?

JW: I’ve been doing this a long time – I have even been on a label as an artist myself. But there are moments in each Black Jacket Symphony show that have been my favorite experiences playing live – ever. People are reverent about these albums. There is something very big and special about seeing people overwhelmed with great music from history.

RSVP: What is in the future for Black Jacket Symphony?

JW: Well, we have our sunglasses on. We are so honored and lucky that this is connecting with so many people that it looks very bright!*

For tickets to upcoming shows and booking information, please email: Hellakopta@gmail.com.

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SEPTEMBER Sept 1-30-Back-to-School at Old Alabama Town 9 A.M.-3 P.M. Old Alabama Town. See what school was like in the 19th century by touring the one-room schoolhouse, complete with the schoolmaster (for guided tours). Individual self-guided tours offered Monday through Saturday. Guided tours available by reservation only and only for groups of 10 or more. 334.240.4500 www.oldalabamatown.com Sept 5- Jazz on the Grass 10 A.M. Riverwalk Amphitheater. Outdoor jazz and blues concert featuring local and nationally known artists. Music begins at 11 with the last act at 7 with Riverboat cruise at 8. Admission charged. Cruise is only $10 with purchase of a festival ticket. www.funontheriver.net Sept 7-Abita Beer Dinner at Roux 7-10 P.M. Roux. Join in for the first Beer Dinner featuring five courses of Abita beer selections and food pairings. Only $40 per person for five courses. Limited reservations available. Call 334.356.3814 or email info@rouxmontgomery.com to claim your spot Sept 9-Corporate Day of Service 8 A.M.-12 P.M. American Red Cross. The Volunteer and Information Center, in partnership with the City of Montgomery and the River Region United Way, has planned a powerful weekend of events to engage and inspire thousands of individuals to promote service on this weekend and beyond in honor of 9/11. Businesses should contact Regina Walker at River Region United Way (334.264.7318) to adopt a project. For more information call 334.264.3335 www.handsonriverregion.org Sept 9-Ballet and the Beasts 7:30 P.M.The Montgomery Zoo. Grab a picnic blanket and lawn chair and enjoy a night under the stars at the Montgomery Zoo. This is a great event for all ages and is free admission. Feel free to bring coolers, picnics and refreshments from home.

Concessions will also be available. For more information call 334.240.4900 or visit www.montgomeryzoo.com or www.montgomeryballet.org Sept 10&24-Jam Session 9 A.M.-12 P.M. Old Alabama Town. Join in for a toe slapping, knee tapping good time at a blue grass jam session held every 2nd and 4th Saturday of the month at Old Alabama Town’s Rose House. Musicians are welcome to bring their acoustic instruments and join the fun. Admission to the Jam Session is free, while tickets to tour Old Alabama Town are available for purchase in the reception center. 334.240.4500 www.oldalabamatown.com 62

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Sept 10-Organic Gardening 101 at the Hampstead

Institute Downtown Farm

10-11:30 A.M. The Hampstead Institute Downtown Farm.

Adults and teens are invited to join in for a hands-on organic gardening session with Farmers Jetson and Anne.

This month’s topic: “Planning and Planting – Decisions for the fall/winter garden.” Cost is $5 for adults and teens (free for kids) and sign up begins at 9:30 a.m.

For details or to pre-register, email Farmer Anne at anne@hampsteadinstitute.org www.hampsteadinstitute.org Sept 10-Artist Lecture 11 A.M. The Troy University Rosa Parks Museum. The museum presents a new exhibit by artist and Tuskegee University assistant art professor, E. Bruce Phillips, Jr. titled “Different Perspectives.” Blending painting, drawing and collage techniques with his unique markings, the collection features provocative works of social commentary, street scenes, runners, dancers, music and jazz scenes, architecture, abstractions and found objects. Free admission. 334.241.8701

Give. GOlf. dine.

Sept 10-3rd Annual Family Fitness Walk/Run 7:30-11:30 A.M. The Shoppes at EastChase. Benefiting the local Big Brothers Big Sisters program, this walk/run features a 5k and 10k course. Free child care, warm up “Boot Camp,” T-shirts, prizes, post run massages and a post run street party add to the excitement. Shopping discounts to the Shoppes at EastChase provided to all participants. Pre-registration is encouraged. Register online at www.active.com or call Family Guidance Center at 334.270.4100.

Around The World in 40 Dishes – Experience an explosion of flavors at this International Food Fair $20 Food/Wine Tasting $15 Food Tasting Only

Sept 11-9/11 Day of Service and Remembrance 2:30-4:30 P.M. Union Station Train Shed. HandsOn River Region is proud to join the City of Montgomery in providing a full afternoon and evening of family friendly volunteer service activities, disaster preparedness information and training and an evening tribute to the victims of 9/11 and those who rose in service following that fateful day. Special Entertainment provided by Ed Pickett and Alabama Full Gospel Baptist Choir, Gulf South District. www.handsonriverregion.org

Members, family and friends – this event is open to all!

Capital City Club, Montgomery October 27, 2011 | 6 – 9 pm

Since 2007, ClubCorp has raised more than $6.5 million in its annual Charity Classic. Join us for our fifth year of giving. This event benefits:

• MdA’s Augie’s Quest • employee Partner Care foundation • Hospitality and Tourism Career Academy at Carver High School

Sept 11-A Concert of Remembrance 2:30 P.M. Alabama Shakespeare Festival. Performance by the Montgomery Chorale, Youth Chorale and Orchestra.

Audience members are invited to submit names of those that died on 9/11 in service for their country or by natural disasters, such as Hurricane Katrina or the Alabama Tornadoes. Admission is $15 for adults and $10 for students and seniors. www.montgomerychorale.org

To participate, go to:

Sept 11-9/11 Signature Event 5-6 P.M. Riverwalk Amphitheater. The 9/11 signature event is a tribute to the victims and heroes of 9/11, the victims and heroes of recent tornadoes, our area’s first responders and all branches of the military who work diligently to keep us safe. The tribute will include a 21 gun salute, music from the Montgomery Chorale and inspirational remarks from special dignitaries. www.handsonriverregion.org

MDA is a not-for-profit voluntary national health agency that supports worldwide research to find the causes, treatments and cures for more than 40 neuromuscular diseases, and provides services to individuals and families affected by neuromuscular diseases. MDA is also the world’s largest provider of services to individuals and families affected by Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (“ALS”), and the largest provider of funds for ALS research. Fitness pioneer Augie Nieto started Augie’s Quest, a fast-track ALS research program, in conjunction with MDA’s ALS Division after his ALS diagnosis in March 2005. MDA is exempt from federal income taxes under Section 501 (c)(3) of the Revenue Code, and is classified as a publicly supported organization under Section 509 (a)(1) of the Internal Revenue Code and qualifies for the maximum charitable contribution deduction by donors.

Employee Partners Care Foundation (www.epcarefoundation.com) is a Section 501 (c)(3) fund established to help Employee Partners and their families in need of financial assistance in times of crisis. Funds for the Employee Partners Care Foundation come from Employee Partner donations as well as private donations, all of which are tax-deductible. ©2011 ClubCorp USA, Inc. All rights reserved.

12981 0811 JB

clubcorpcharityclassic.com or call 334.834.8920

SEPT/OCT 2011 CLB12981-CM_RSVPMag_Ad05.indd 1

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Sept 14-MACC 60 Minute Coffee 8-9 A.M. Center for Lifelong Learning. This monthly member event is the perfect way to begin your day, meet potential clients, make important contacts and network with chamber executives and community leaders.

Sponsored by Auburn Montgomery Outreach. For more information, contact Lynn Norton at 334.240.9431 www.montgomerychamber.com Sept 14-Executive 2 EMERGE Luncheon with Larry Puckett 12 P.M. Capital City Club. Meet one of the most successful CEO’s in the River Region! The Montgomery Area Chamber of Commerce Chairman and President of Larry Puckett Chevrolet, Larry Puckett, will speak about the initiatives at the Chamber and his personal keys to success. Limited to the first 20 people. Reservations required. $10 and includes lunch. Make your reservation at www.emergemontgomery.com Sept 15-MACC Diversity Summit 8 A.M.-6 P.M. Renaissance Montgomery Hotel and Spa at the Convention Center. The Montgomery Area Chamber of Commerce Annual Diversity Summit brings together River Region businesses and civic leaders for workshops and forums relating to diversity and the workplace. Deadline to register is September 9. For more information contact Heidi Powers at 334.240.6863 www.montgomerychamber.com Sept 15-Cops for Christmas 8th Annual Benefit Golf Tournament 8:30 A.M. Lagoon Park Golf Course. All proceeds go directly to underprivileged children and assist in making Christmas wishes come true. For more information, contact either CJ Butterbaugh at 334.241.2831 or Mike Myrick at 334.850.8636

Sept 15-EMERGE/Goodwill Football Kick Off 6:30 P.M. 129 Coosa Street. Alabama v. Auburn, Alabama State v. Troy and Faulkner v. Huntingdon. WHO WILL WIN? Come to 129 Coosa Street and help your favorite school win by donating clothes into their appropriate bins.

Whichever school has the most clothes donated in its bin will earn EMERGE/Goodwill Bragging Rights for the Year!

We will be watching the Mississippi State Bulldogs vs. the LSU Tigers game so wear your favorite team colors! www. emergemontgomery.com Sept 15-Oct 2-“The CompleatWrks of WilmSkhksp” Times vary. Way Off Broadway Theatre, Prattville. WOBT brings something new to their theatre with their production of “The CompleatWrks of WilmSkhksp.” This is a parody of the plays written by William Shakespeare with all of them being performed during the show by only three male actors.

The hilarity of the production is derived from a plethora of costume changes, endless puns and energetic humor. Anyone seeking to laugh until it hurts? This is the ticket. Call for tickets 334.358.0297

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ESCAPE FOR AN EVENING AT OAK TAVERN The Oak Tavern Lounge & Restaurant, located in the Montgomery Marriott Prattville Hotel & Conference Center at Capitol Hill, offers a tempting dinner menu featuring traditional American and Southern-inspired dishes, plus an extensive cocktail list for all occasions. Enjoy a night complemented by live entertainment in the stylish bar or move to the patio to enjoy the fire pits and the scenic views of the perfectly manicured Robert Trent Jones Golf Trail at Capitol Hill.

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

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Sept 16-Ladies Lunch Featuring a Goodwill Industries

Fashion Show

11:30 A.M.-1 P.M. Capital City Club. Enjoy a delicious lunch while enjoying an exciting fashion show featuring a variety of fashions from over the years. Register online or call the Club at 334.834.8920 today to make your reservations! $30 and includes lunch. Members and guests of members only.

For membership information, please contact Phyllis Fenn at phyllis.fenn@ourclub.com or visit www.capitalmontgomery.com Sept 17-Wheelin’ Sportsmen Fishing Round-Up 8 A.M.-1 P.M. Pete Peterson Lodge. Alabama Power Service Organization and Elmore County NWTF bring a fun day of fishing and lunch. Wheelin’ Sportsmen NWTF is a national non-profit organization dedicated to providing opportunities for people with disabilities to enjoy the great outdoors. www.elmorecountynwtf.com Sept 17-Hank Williams’ 88th Birthday Celebration

and Collectors Fair

11 A.M.-3 P.M. Hank Williams Museum.

Come celebrate Hank Williams’ 88th birthday with live tribute music and a collectors fair!

334.262.3600 www.thehankwilliamsmusem.com Sep 22- Business After Hours 5-7 P.M. AlleyBAR. This popular two-hour informal networking after work event is the perfect place to exchange business cards and meet potential customers. People do business with people they know. Be sure to bring plenty of business cards and build your customer base! This is a free member event. Contact Lynn Norton at 334.240.9431 www.montgomerychamber.com Sept 22-Exhibition Opening and Fleishman Lecture 5:30 P.M. Montgomery Museum of Fine Arts. “1934: A New Deal for Artists” exhibition opens and then the Fleishman Lecture, “Wild About Chairs” begins at 7 p.m. The lecture series is sponsored by the Carolyn and Winton Blount Endowment in honor of Larry Fleischman. This year’s Fleischman speaker, Dr. Diane Jacobsen, lends her unique perspective as the collector of the objects featured in The Art of Seating: 200 Years of American Chair Design. www.mmfa.org Sept 22- Purely You Fall Release Pary 5:30 P.M. Pure Salon & Spa 334.481.2875 Sept 22- Zoobilation 6 P.M. The Montgomery Zoo. Join in for a fun-filled night of great tasting food, cocktails, live entertainment, live and silent auctions and plenty more surprises at this adult only fundraiser. All attendees must be 21 years of age or older to attend the event. Admission is $50 per person. Proceeds from this year’s event will be used to build a touch-and-feel Stingray exhibit. www.zoobilationonline.com Sept 23-“Unwine” A Night for the Fight 6-10 P.M. Capital City Club. This wine tasting benefit is raising money for the making strides walk against breast cancer hosted by the American Cancer Society. The event will feature a wine tasting and live music along with a gift basket give away among other treats. $10 admission. For more information email Amber Mann at thefactorymme@gmail.com 66

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Sep 23-Josh Turner 8 P.M.Alabama Theatre, Birmingham. www.ticketmaster.com Sept 23-“Back Yard” BBQ Competition Times vary. State Farmers Market. Brantwood will be having a “Back Yard” BBQ competition benefitting Brantwood Children’s Home. Judging will start at 4 and gates open at 6. There will be vendors and sponsors, and you can buy a ticket to enjoy the food.Tickets are $10, kids 5 and under eat free. For additional information or if interested in becoming a sponsor, competitor or vendor, please contact Amy Waters at awaters@brantwoodchildrenshome.org or 334.265.0784 Sep 24-6th Annual Ready, Set, Grow! Harvest Festival 2011 and Arts & Crafts Fair

8A.M.-5 P.M.Village Green Park,Millbrook.The Harvest Festival celebrates the Ready, Set, Grow! Pumpkin Growing Contest.

Proceeds from the Harvest Festival fund this six-year-old educational program that is offered free to children ages 5-12. www.readysetgrowal.webs.com Sept 24-Annual Titus Bluegrass Festival 10 A.M.-6 P.M. Titus Community Center. This will be a day where a normally quiet, out-of-the-way area in rural Elmore County is magically transformed into a community of great performers, enthusiastic fans, devoted volunteers, nonstop jamming, scrumptious barbeque and booths filled with crafts, cookbooks, and peanuts. Admission is $5 for adults and children under 12 get in free. For more information contact Hinton at 334.567.9059 www.titusbluegrassfestival.com Sept 24-AUM Senator Stampede Run 8:30 A.M. AUM Baseball Complex. www.active.com Sept 25-Bark in the Park 1-5 P.M. Fort Toulouse. A celebration of the bond between owners and their pets! Bring your dog for a fun afternoon of pet games and contests, food, vendors of all kinds, live music, children’s games, demonstrations and much more! Admission charged. 334.567.3377 www.elmorehumane.com Sept 25-Putting on Events Expo 2-5 P.M. Alcazar Shriners. If you are an event planner, DJ or band, caterer, venue, floral designer, photographer, jeweler, bridal company, wedding planner, rental company, videographer, baker, hair stylist, makeup artist, stationary designer, etc. OR if you are planning any event such as a big party, wedding, reception, forum, meeting, birthday or whatever the EVENT...this EXPO is for you! You will meet the experts in this industry that can help make sure that your event is a huge success. Admission is free with a charitable donation of a non-perishable food item that will benefit the Montgomery Area Food Bank. For more information contact Deborah Mollack 334.273.8288 or 334.590.5006 puttingonevents@yahoo.com Sept 28-Sweetwater Beer Dinner at Roux 7-10 P.M. Roux. Join in for a Sweetwater Beer Dinner featuring five courses of Sweetwater beer selections and food pairings. Only $40 per person for five courses. Limited reservations available. Call 334.356.3814 or email info@ rouxmontgomery.com to claim your spot

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Sept 29-Shop ‘Til You Drop Ladies Night Out 6 P.M. Capital City Club. Ladies bring all of your girlfriends to this perfect ladies night out! Join in at the Capital City Club for $2 margaritas and happy hour specials, door prizes, light hors d’oeuvres and all of the shopping you can imagine in one place. 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 www.capitalmontgomery.com Sept 29-VERB 6:30 P.M. Union Station Train Shed. VERB, a project of EMERGE Montgomery Torchbearer’s Leadership Class III, will bridge the gap between organizations in need of volunteers and college students in need of organizations to volunteer for. A video will showcase the organizations and local celebrity speakers will encourage student involvement.

Entertainment will be provided from local universities. Come out to support your school and find out what community organizations can use helping hands. For more information visit www.emergemontgomery.com Sept 29-Weird Al Yankovic 7:30 P.M. Montgomery Performing Arts Centre. “Weird Al” Yankovic is the biggest selling comedy recording artist of all time. He is touring in support of his first full-length studio album in nearly five years titled Alpocalypse, the highest charting album of his career debuting at #9 on the Billboard 200. 334.481.5100 www.mpaconline.org Sep 30- Hogs and Hens Cookoff Time TBA. www.montgomeryal.gov Sept 30-Oktoberfest at The Tipping Point 6 P.M. The Tipping Point Beer Garden. The second annual Oktoberfest will feature seasonal beer and wine tastings, German inspired bar fare and great music from The John Bull Band and Straighten Up Houston. Tickets available at The Tipping Point. Call 334.260.9110 for details.

Sep 30-Widespread Panic 6:30 P.M. Tuscaloosa Amphitheater. www.ticketmaster.com Sep 30-Montgomery’s Zombie Walk and Zombie Prom 7-11 P.M. Courtyard Square to The Alley. Kick off the Halloween Season with this event to benefit the Montgomery Area Food Bank. Zombies should bring nonperishable food items for donation. Dress as a zombie and follow the hearse down Commerce Street to The Alley where DJ’s will be on hand to rock the undead! This event is sponsored by Montgomery Riverfront Facilities, Fontaine Entertainment and Haunted Hearse tours of Montgomery.

Sept 30-“Unwine” Wine Tasting Benefit for Breast Cancer 8 P.M.-12 A.M. Capital City Club. The Capital City Club in partnership with Factory Music Marketing presents a wine tasting with a twist! Sample a variety of red and white wines, listen to live entertainment, enjoy delicious hors d’oeuvres and listening to stories by inspiring survivors. $10 admission. Proceeds for this event benefit American Cancer Society. For membership information, please contact Phyllis Fenn at phyllis.fenn@ourclub.com or 334.834.8920 www.capitalmontgomery.com SEPT/OCT 2011

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OCTOBER Oct 1-Montgomery Half Marathon 7 A.M. Downtown. The Montgomery Half Marathon presented by Hyundai Motor Manufacturing Alabama and benefiting the Joy to Life Foundation is quickly becoming one of the premier running events in the South. With a half marathon, 5K and kids’ one-mile run, there’s something for everyone! Fee for participants only. www.montgomerymarathon.com Oct 1-9th Annual Find-a-Friend at AUM Humane

Society Adopt-a-thon

10:30 A.M.-1 P.M. Auburn University at Montgomery.

Approximately 25 animal shelters and rescue organizations from across Alabama will gather at AUM for the 9th annual Find-a-Friend at AUM Human Society Adopt-a-thon, organized by the AUM non-profit Leadership Alliance. For more information call 334.244.3350.

Oct 1-31-Harvest Time at Old Alabama Town 9 A.M.-3 P.M. Old Alabama Town. Come down throughout October as they feature Harvest Time in the 1800s.

Join in for tours of the cotton gin and grits mill, and get a first-hand look at farming in the 19th century.

Guided tours available by reservation only, for groups of 10 or more, but individual tours are also available. www.oldalabamatown.com Oct. 1- 31-Dream Field Farms Pumpkin Patch Times vary. Dream Field Farms. Dream Field Farms has pumpkins, hayrides, barn animals, inflatables, corn maze, great food and live entertainment all weekend long. Open seven days a week. Fun for the whole family.

For more information call 334.534.6976 www.dreamfieldfarms.com Oct 2-Taste of the River Region 5:30-6 P.M. (VIP), 6-8 P.M. (general admission). Renaissance Hotel and Convention Center.

Join the Alabama Restaurant Association and The Junior League of Montgomery for a night of fun, food and live entertainment.

Admission charged. For more information visit www.jlmontgomery.org.

Oct 5-Wicked Times vary. The Fox Theatre, Atlanta. www.ticketmaster.com.

Oct 6-Faulkner University Benefit Dinner 7 P.M. Faulkner University, 334.386.7257 www.faulkner.edu Oct 6-Huetopia 7-10 P.M. The Tipping Point. Ladies (and Gentlemen) mark your calendars! The Tipping Point and hue Studio are joining forces once again to bring you the latest in fall/winter styles and cocktails. Come check out amazing clothes, fabulous cocktails, prize giveaways, cosmetic consultations and live music. Call 334.239.8884 or email hsteen@huestudioinc.com for details Oct 7-16-Alabama National Fair Times vary. Garret Coliseum. Midway rides, main stage entertainment, food, information and commercial booths, kids area, livestock and other competition, family faith day, etc. www.alnationalfair.org 70

RSVP SEPT/OCT 2011

when? what? where?

Oct 7-Out and About Montgomery 6-9 P.M. Hampstead. Out and About Montgomery, a project of EMERGE Montgomery Torchbearer’s Leadership Class III, will be hosting a community spotlight which will be the kickoff event spotlighting local musicians and communities of the River Region. Vendors from the Hampstead Community will be present offering specials, discounts and coupons.This event is free and open to the public. For more information visit www.emergemontgomery.com Oct 7-30-Dracula Times vary. Alabama Shakespeare Festival. As the sun sets, Count Dracula rises to seek victims in the darkness of the night and cover of the fog. Lethal fangs wait around every corner. The helpless lie drained of blood at every turn. To scream is to use the last of your breath. Can this carnage be stopped? Don’t miss this gasp-a-minute version of Bram Stoker’s classic tale of horror. For exact dates and times of performances, please call the ASF Box Office at 800.841.4273 or www.asf.net.

Oct 8&22- Jam Session 9 A.M.-12 P.M. Old Alabama Town. Join in for a toe slapping, knee tapping good time at a blue grass jam session held every 2nd and 4th Saturday of the month at Old Alabama Town’s Rose House. Musicians are welcome to bring their acoustic instruments and join the fun. Admission to the Jam Session is free, while tickets to tour Old Alabama Town are available for purchase in the reception center. 334.240.4500 www.oldalabamatown.com.

Oct 8-Organic Gardening 101 at Hampstead Farms 10-11:30 A.M. Hampstead Farms in East Montgomery.

Adults and teens are invited to join us for a handson organic gardening session with Farmers Anne and Jetson. This month’s topic: “Backyard Fruit ProductionUsing Fruit Trees in the Landscape.” Cost is $5 for adults and teens (free for kids.) For details or to pre-register, email Farmer Anne at anne@hampsteadinstitute.org. www.hampsteadinstitute.org Oct 8-Second Annual Riverwalk Wine Festival 1-4 P.M. Montgomery Riverfront Downtown.Event will include wine tastings from 11 different distributors representing more than 100 wineries and live music. Admission is $25 and includes a commemorative wine glass and discount offers on wine purchases, a Harriott II Wine Cruise (beginning at 5) and food samples. www.riverwalkwinefestival.com or www.rsvp-montgomery.com Oct 8-7th Annual Partners In Education (PIE) Walk 1 P.M. Montgomery Zoo. The 7th Annual PIE Walk is to promote awareness of Partners In Education and serves as a fundraiser for PIE’s mentoring and tutoring programs.

Registration begins at 11:30 and includes a t-shirt, admission into the zoo, refreshments and activities. $5 for youth under 18 and $10 for those 18 and over. Corporate sponsorship packages also available. For more information contact Chacolby Burns-Johnson at 334.240.0918 or cburns-johnson@montgomerypie.org www.montgomerypie.org.

SEPT/OCT 2011

RSVP 71

THIS IS

TROY COUNTRY

when? what? where?

Oct 9-Pulitzer Prize Winning Poet Performs Public

Reading at AUM

4:30-6 P.M. Auburn University at Montgomery. Natasha Trethewey, author of three books of poetry, and Phillis Wheatley, Distinguished Chair of Poetry at Emory University, will visit Montgomery to read from her collection, _Bellocq’s Ophelia_, which was inspired by photographs taken of AfricanAmerican prostitutes living in New Orleans in the early 1900s.

She won the Pulitzer Prize in 2007 for Native Guard. The public is invited to hear her read from her work. www.aum.edu Oct 12-MACC 60 Minute Coffee 8-9 A.M. Harper’s (Culinary Arts Department). This monthly member event is the perfect way to begin your day, meet potential clients, make important contacts and network with chamber executives and community leaders. This event is sponsored by Trenholm State Technical College. For more information contact Lynn Norton at 334.240.9431. www.montgomerychamber.com 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

Oct 12-15-23rd Annual Junior League Holiday Market 2011 Times vary. Renaissance Hotel and Convention Center.

This four-day shopping extravaganza will feature a wide variety of specialty booths and a lot of special events for the entire family. Admission charged. 334.288.8816 www.jlmontgomery.org Oct 13-Outstanding in the Field Farm Dinner at

Hampstead Farms

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

11/15/10 10:51 AM

3 P.M. Hampstead Farms. Outstanding in the Field has selected Hampstead Farms and Ham and High’s Chef Joe Wolfson to host an outdoor farm dinner as part of the group’s 2011 international culinary tour, marking the first Outstanding in the Field dinner in Montgomery and the only one in the state of Alabama in 2011. Join us for an unprecedented evening in the field around the long table with local farmers, producers, chefs and fellow diners. Tickets are limited and available now at www.outstandinginthefield.com Oct 13-16, 20-23 & 27-31-ZOO BOO 6-9 P.M. Montgomery Zoo. A safe alternative to Halloween, ZooBoo provides a fun-filled evening of games, treats and costumed characters.

Enjoy educational presentations and the traditional haunted ride. For more information call 334.240.4930 www.montgomeryzoo.com Oct 13, 20 & 27-Painting Landscapes and Cityscapes 6:30-8:30 P.M. Montgomery Museum of Fine Arts. View the inspiring paintings in the exhibition 1934: A New Deal for Artists, and create your own masterpiece in this informative series of classes, designed for the beginner as well as more advanced student. Participants will learn to create interesting compositions and to incorporate architectural components in their paintings. Color and value studies will also be included in the class. Some supplies provided. Price varies. www.mmfa.org Oct 14-Tavern Fest 7-10 P.M. Old Alabama Town. A good time and an even better cause-Landmark Foundation’s annual fall fundraiser brings nothing less than great food, music by Doc Daily and Magnolia Double and a dancing good time to Montgomery’s historic streets. Enjoy the outdoor street festival’s sound of fabulous bands and tease your palette with the guiltiest of Southern pleasures, plus craft beer tasting and fine wine. Admission is $10. www.oldalabamatown.com

72

RSVP SEPT/OCT 2011

when? what? where?

Oct 14-11th Annual Blue Jean Ball 5 P.M. Pat Dye’s Crooked Oaks Hunting Lodge. It’s a night not to be missed by SEC football fans and supporters of the Auburn and Auburn Montgomery nursing schools.

Legendary Auburn University football coach Pat Dye will host the 11th annual Blue Jean Ball at his Notasulga ranch, the Crooked Oaks Hunting Lodge and Quail Hollows Gardens. Proceeds from the event are used to support scholarships, programming and faculty of the AUM and AU Schools of Nursing. For more information call Shelley Grider at 334.244.3032 or visit www.auburn.edu/nursing.

(205) 914-4527

www.chefdavecarvesice.com chefdavecarvesice@hotmail.com

Oct 20-MMFA: Di’Vine’ Lunch 11 A.M.-2 P.M. Montgomery Museum of Fine Art. A partnership with United-Johnson Brothers LLC, featuring a delectable menu paired with select wines. Reservations are recommended. $15 a person plus tax www.mmfa.org Oct 20-Artist on Tap 5-9 P.M. AlleyBAR. Artist on Tap, a project of EMERGE Montgomery Torchbearer’s Leadership Class III, will host an event that will feature works of local artists in a family friendly yet sociable environment. It will include art, live art demonstrations, live music from a local band, door prizes for artists and refreshments provided by area vendors and restaurants. Local artists can showcase their work at the event with a $10 entry fee. Free admission.For more information visit www.emergemontgomery.com Oct 20 & 27-Stained Glass Windows 6-8:30 P.M. Montgomery Museum of Fine Arts. Create an unforgettable holiday gift for someone special or enhance your own home with your uniquely designed window!

Participants in this informative series of seven classes will learn to design, cut, fit together and solder glass to complete a stained glass creation. Most supplies provided. Cost varies. www.mmfa.org Oct 20-International Food Fair 6-9 P.M. Capital City Club. The Capital City Club of Montgomery will host an International Food Fair. Experience an explosion of flavors as you learn about different cultures through the art of food. In addition to the great food, there will be a silent auction with items you won’t want to miss out on! $15 admission. This event is open to non-members. www.capitalmontgomery.com Oct 21-Bingo for Breast Cancer Ladies Lunch 11:30 A.M.-1 P.M. Capital City Club. Enjoy a delicious three-course meal while playing five games of bingo to raise funds for breast cancer research. A portion of all proceeds will be donated to the American Cancer Society’s “Making Strides for Breast Cancer.” $25 per person. Members and guests of members only. www.capitalmontgomery.com Oct 21-23-Talladega 500 Weekend Times vary.

Talladega Superspeedway.

Weekend featuring the NASCAR Camping World Truck Series 250 and the NASCAR Sprint Cup Series Talladega 500.

The Talladega 500 is race No. 6 in the Chase for the NASCAR Sprint Cup. Admission charged. 256.761.4706 www.talladegasuperspeedway.com

SEPT/OCT 2011

RSVP 73

Bank with a Good Neighbor . ®

Breck Honea, Agent State Farm Agent 61 Market Place - Atlanta Hwy Montgomery, AL 36117 Bus: 334-272-8423

1001280

You’ll feel the difference.

With loans, checking, savings and more, State Farm Bank ® can help you with all your banking needs.* And you can bank online, by phone, or by mail.

CALL ME TODAY FOR MORE INFORMATION.

*Some products and services not available in all areas.

State Farm Bank, F.S.B., Bloomington, IL

when? what? where?

Oct 22-23-Spinners 30th Annual “Pumpkin Patch”

Arts and Crafts Show

Times vary.

Spinners Park, Prattville. Artists and craftsmen from throughout the Southeast with original work for sale, entertainment, food, homemade baked goods by Spinners members and more. Free admission. www.spinnersprattville.com Oct 27- Business After Hours 5-7 P.M. Berney Office Solutions. This popular two-hour informal networking after work event is the perfect place to exchange business cards and meet potential customers.

People do business with people they know. This is a free member event. Contact Lynn Norton at 334.240.9431 www.montgomerychamber.com Oct 27- Give. Golf. Dine.

6-9 P.M. Capital City Club, 334.834.8920 www.clubcorpcharityclassic.com Oct 27-Website Creation in the Cloud 6-8 P.M. Montgomery Museum of Fine Arts. Are you interested in setting up a website, but not sure where to begin? This workshop will show you how to use free, cost effective solutions to setting up your own website in the cloud. Cost varies. www.mmfa.org Oct 28-Murder Mystery Dinner 6 P.M. Capital City Club. It’s time again for our Super Sleuths to figure out “who dunnit”! Join in for a Murder Mystery Dinner to help find out who is guilty. Since this event has a Halloween theme, everyone is welcome to wear his or her favorite costume-though not required. $25.95+ per person. Members and guests of members only. www.capitalmontgomery.com Oct 29- Lion Club Chili Cookoff 11 A.M.-3 P.M. Riverwalk Stadium. www.funontheriver.net Oct 29-Haunting on the Harriott II Cruise 8-11:30 P.M. Adult cruise only. Hors d’oeuvres and cash bar available. Tickets are $39 and can be purchased by calling 334.625.2100. www.funontheriver.net Oct 30-Pumpkin Carving Workshop 1-2:30 P.M. Montgomery Museum of Fine Arts. Learn to carve an “artsy” pumpkin in this special workshop. Then enter your artwork in the Jack-O-Lantern contest. Winners will be announced and awards given at 4 p.m. during the Fall Festival. All supplies provided. Workshop limited to 12 family groups. Advance registration required. 334.240.4365 www.mmfa.org

BRENDLE RENTA LS 485 Eastern Blvd • Montgomery, AL 36117

(334) 279-7368 • brendlerentals.com

74

RSVP SEPT/OCT 2011

Oct 30-Fall Festival 2:30-4:30 P.M. Montgomery Museum of Fine Arts. View “artsy” carved pumpkins (and incredible art in the Museum galleries), make tin picture frames and self-portraits in the studio and be entertained by jazz musicians! Halloween costumes are optional. www.mmfa.org

Did you know 1 in 3 children born after 2000 will develop diabetes?

Step Out: Walk to Stop Diabetes Montgomery Saturday, November 5, 2011 at the Alabama Shakespeare Festival

Registration begins at 8 a.m. Race begins at 9 a.m.

More than 12 percent of Alabama’s population has diabetes.

Register to support those suffering and help fund diabetes research, education and advocacy.

Together we can Stop Diabetes.

One step at a time.

To register, or for more information on Step Out and the ADA contact: Aimee Johnson 205-870-5172 ext. 3070 aijohnson@diabetes.org Or visit http://main.diabetes.org/stepoutmontgomery

Scan using your smart phone’s QR reader to learn more about the Montgomery Step Out!

resource directory 129 Coosa Street, p. 66 129 Coosa Street Montgomery,AL 36104 334.262.8859 www.129coosa.com

2940 Salon, p. 47 2940-A Zelda Road Montgomery,AL 36106 334.260.9602 www.2940salonspa.com Alabama Shakespeare Festival, p. 39 1 Festival Drive Montgomery,AL 36117 334.271.5353 www.asf.net

Alfa-Billy Bradford, p. 73 4331 Atlanta Highway Montgomery,AL 36109 334.277.5785

AlleyBAR, p. 3 166 Commerce Street Montgomery,AL 36104 334.387.3333 www.alleybarmontgomery.com Allstate Beverage, p. 59,68 580 Parallel Street Montgomery,AL 36104 334.265.0507 www.allstatebeverage.com/ home/

American Diabetes Association, p. 75 Arbors on Taylor, p. 69 485 Taylor Road Montgomery,AL 36117 334.386.2655 www.thearborsontaylor.com

Arrow Rents & Party Professionals, p. 77 5600 Calmar Drive Montgomery,AL 36116 334.277.0460 www.arrowrents.net

AUM, p. 55 7440 East Drive Montgomery,AL 36117 334.244.3000 www.aum.edu Bama Budweiser, p. 80 2514 Midpark Road Montgomery,AL 36109 334.271.5620 www.bamabud.com

Brendle Rentals, p.74

485 Eastern Boulevard Montgomery,AL 36117 334.279.7368 www.brendlerentals.com

Cantina, p. 59

130 Commerce Street, Suite 103 Montgomery,AL 36104 334.262.2339

Capital City Club, p. 63

201 Monroe Street, Suite 2100 Montgomery,AL 36104 334.834.8920 www.capitalmontgomery.com

Catered Affair, p. 37

9138 Eastchase Parkway Montgomery,AL 36117

Charlottes Jewelry, p. 10

8161 Vaughn Road Montgomery,AL 36116 334.396.1919

Clefworks, p. 65 www.clefworks.com Clint Darby Band, p. 62 334.201.1976 www.clintdarby.com

Colonial Insurance, p. 29

5251 Hampstead High Street, Unit 200 Montgomery,AL 36116 334.270.6824 www.colonial-insurance.com

Cops for Christmas, p. 37 Darren Freeman Photography, p. 62

P.O. Box 240404 Montgomery,AL 36124 334.215.7827 www.darrenphotography.com

Davis Theatre- Troy University, p. 33

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

Dreamland BBQ, p. 55 101 Tallapoosa Street Montgomery,AL 36104 334.273.7427 www.dreamlandbbq.com

hue Studio, p. 17 8155 Vaughn Road Montgomery,AL 36116 334.239.8884 www.huestudioinc.com

EastChase, p. 12, 39

Ice Sculptures by David Bromley, p. 73

7274 Eastchase Lane Montgomery,AL 36117 334.279.6046 www.theshoppesateastchase.com

Emerge

Montgomery, p. 49 600 South Court Street, Suite 544 Montgomery,AL 36104 334.262.2261 www.emergemontgomery.com Eve’s Studio, p. 27 2026 Clubview Street Montgomery,AL 36106 334.262.888 8 www.evesstudiollc.com Faulkner University, p. 75

5345 Atlanta Highway Montgomery,AL 36109 334.386.7210 www.faulkner.edu

DCVI Studios, p. 69

Finiti Electronic Cigarettes, p. 23

Dine and Dash, p. 61

Hampstead, p. 24, 25 5272 Hampstead High Street Montgomery,AL 36116 334.270.6730 www.townofhampstead.com

Prattville,AL 36066 334.358.5606 www.dcvistudios.com

Doug’s 2 Salon-Spa, p. 67 4697 Vaughn Road Montgomery,AL 36106 334.396.7120 www.dougs2.com Dreamfield Farms, p. 38 334.534.6976 www.dreamfieldfarms.com

Hello Gorgeous Photography, p. 21

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

Jim N’ Nicks, p. 71 6415 Atlanta Highway Montgomery,AL 36117 334.213.0046 2250 Cobbs Ford Road Prattville,AL 36066 334.290.1000 www.jimnnicks.com Kim Box Photography, p. 2

West Main Street Prattville,AL 36067 334.491.0409 www.kimboxphotography.com

Lagoon Park, p. 49

2855 Lagoon Park Drive Montgomery,AL 36117 334.271.7000 www.playmontgomerygolf.com

Laser Wellness, p. 72 370 St. Lukes Drive Montgomery,AL 36029 www.alabamalaserwellness.com

Look Boutique, p. 17 www.hellogorgeousphotography.com 1048 East Fairview Montgomery ,AL 36106 334.239.7537 Hob Nob, p. 57, 73 2469 Pinnacle Way 1609 South Decatur Street Prattville,AL 36066 Montgomery,AL 36104 334.290.0928 334.230.9886

C A T E R I N G

• A Rare Occasions, lways Well D one. • The fin

est cuts of meat w ith our unique on -site grilling service, th e freshest selection of fish and the m ost delicious details to complete your ev ent. We keep your guests talking lon g after the event is over.

PepperTree Shopping Center 8101 A Vaughn Road | Montgomery

334.271.6328 | www.steaksnwines.com 76

RSVP SEPT/OCT 2011

LULU’s Attic to Antiques, p. 57 Peppertree Steaks N’ Wines, p. 76 946 Plantation Way Montgomery,AL 36117 334.593.7852

Lush Makeup Art, p. 67 334.315.2863 www.lushmakeupart.com

Mamma Nem’s, p. 66

1200 Eastern Boulevard Montgomery,AL 36117 334.420.6262 www.mammanems.com

Marriott-Legends at Capitol Hill, p. 65

2500 Legends Circle Prattville,AL 36066 334.290.1235 www.marriottcapitolhill.com

8101 Vaughn Road Montgomery,AL 36116 334.271.6328 www.steaksnwines.com

Pickwick Antiques, p. 68 3851 Interstate Court Montgomery,AL 36109 334.279.1481 www.pickwickantiques.com Pine Bar, p. 54 501 Cloverdale Road Montgomery,AL 36106 334.239.9061 www.thepinebar.com Pure, p. 75

4697 Vaughn Road Montgomery,AL 36106 334.481.2875

Momma Goldberg’s Deli, p. 65 Renaissance 7960 Vaughn Road Montgomery,p.6 Montgomery,AL 36116 334.517.1071 www.mommagoldbergdeli.com

Montgomery Aids Outreach, p.32 Montgomery Ballet, p. 64 2101 Eastern Boulevard, Suite 223 Montgomery,AL 36117 334.409.0522 www.montgomeryballet.org Montgomery Humane Society, p. 70

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

Montgomery Museum of Fine Arts, p.33 1 Museum Drive Montgomery,AL 36117 334.240.4369 www.mmfa.org

Montgomery Performing Arts Centre, p. 4

201 Tallapoosa Street Montgomery,AL 36104 334.481.5100 www.mpaconline.org

Montgomery Zoo, p. 27 2301 Coliseum Parkway Montgomery,AL 36110-3250 334.240.4900 myStarke, p. 7

210 Commerce Street Montgomery,AL 36104 334.263.5535 www.mystarke.com

Nails O Naturel, p. 57 8448 Crossland Loop, Suite 163 Montgomery,AL 36117 334.782.4137 www.nailsonaturel.com New Park Living, p. 78 9430 New Park Drive Montgomery,AL 36117 334.215.9215 www.newparkliving.com NShape, p. 64

101 Walker Street Prattville,AL 36066 334.233.8675 nshapefitness@live.com

Obelisk Healthcare, p.18 4705 Woodmere Boulevard Montgomery,AL 36106 334.558.0262 www.obeliskhealthcare.com

201 Tallapoosa Street Montgomery,AL 36104 334.481.5210 www.spaatmontgomery.com

Riverfront Facilities, p. 15

www.funontheriver.net

Riverwalk WIne Fesitval, p. 20

www.rsvp-montgomery.com

Saint James School, p. 42 6010 Vaughn Road Montgomery,AL 36116 334.277.8033 www.stjweb.org SaZa Pizza, p. 8 138 Commerce Street Montgomery,AL 36104 334.495.7292 www.sazapizza.com Starke Agency, p. 5

210 Commerce Street Montgomery,AL 36104 334.263.5535 www.starkeagency.com

State Farm Insurance, p.74

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

Stivers Ford, p. 79 4000 Eastern Boulevard Montgomery,AL 36111 334.613.5024 www.stiversfordlm. dealerconnection.com/ Tallapoosa Lakes, p. 49 1501 Dozier Road Montgomery,AL 36117 334.260.4900 www.tlakesgolf.com

Taylor Crossing, p. 29

100 Taylor Road North Montgomery,AL 36117-6723 334.270.9225 www.taylorcrossingvet. vetsuite.com

The Waters, p. 9 2239 Marler Road Pike Road,AL 36064 334.561.1801 www.thewatersal.com

Troy University, p. 11, 72,77 231 Montgomery Street Montgomery,AL 36104 334.834.1400 www.montgomery.troy.edu

Zoobilation, p. 29

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 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

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11/18/08 9:26:38 AM

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SEPT/OCT 2011 RSVP 79

RAISE A BUD RAISE MONEY FOR MILITARY MILITA T RY FA TA F FAMILIES MILIES

This summer, Budweiser will donate up to $2,000,000 to Folds of Honor, including a donation for every Budweiser sold.* The Folds of Honor Foundation provides education scholarships for the dependants of military service men and women killed or disabled while serving.

So just by enjoying a Budweiser with friends, you’re helping the families of our military heroes that protect our great nation.

Budweiser, Proudly Serving, Those Who Serve. *Maximum donation of $2,000,000 includes $100 for every home run hit in select professional baseball games, 5¢/case of Budweiser sold, 5/26 – 7/10, and $46,500 for Dave Winfield’s 465 career home runs. For details, visit facebook.com/Budweiser

Limited Edition Cans

©2011 Anheuser-Busch, Inc., Budweiser® Beer, St. Louis, MO