RSVP 10-Year Anniversary Issue - March/April 2018

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16 reply YES Styles and trends to consider

Tuscany meets the south

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20 Special Feature Infertility Awareness

24 Feature Story RSVP 10 Years

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46 Special Feature

30

The Magic of Dating

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48 the LIST A Who’s Who of Young Leaders

60 Take 5 Favorite Issues

26 20

46 48

62 don’t ask, doc tells Medical realities revealed

Grass Medicine

64 Special Feature

Dougs 2: Hair Therapy

68 socially SEEN Mom Prom Ball Masque

72 when? what? where?

92 resource DIRECTORY

ON THE COVER RSVP Celebrates 10 Years

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Join Our Inner Circle with • Better Benefits • More Savings • Exclusive Access •

d o c u m e n t i n g l i f e a n d l o v e . . . b e a u t i f u l l y s i m p l e. w w w. k i m b o x p h o t o g r a p h y. c o m

from the GIRLS The River Region Guide for All Things Social vol. 11, Iss.2

I

t’s hard to believe we are celebrating our 10-year anniversary. It seems like just yesterday we were working on our business plan and reaching out to our advisory board for advice on getting RSVP rolling!

We have dedicated several pages to the numerous team members, contributors and advertisers that have made this journey a success. We hope it will give you a glimpse into all the hard work, loads of fun and strong relationships built through this publication. Several of our team members are pictured here but there are several others that make up our team. Special thanks to our newest contributing writers, Angela Hardgrave, Liz Vinson and Ashley Whittle Tiedt, whose written words craft the articles you love to read.

This issue also contains several other features we think you will enjoy reading, like the article on Doug’s 2, which has been one of our most loyal supporters for the past ten years. While that sounds like a long time to us, Doug’s 2 has been serving clients for over 40 years and has one of the most successful Aveda salons in the South. We are so thankful for their partnership.

Valiant Cross Academy is making a huge impact on the lives of many young African American men. Started by Anthony Brock three years ago with only 30 students, the program continues to grow and will have a high school class next year thanks to their partnership with Troy University. Valiant Cross is one of the most incredible ministries we have ever seen.

Spring is in the air, and if you are looking for a retreat within a short drive, Dahlonega is a place you will want to check out. Full of history, this best kept secret is equipped with a bed and breakfast with beautiful views, vineyards, hiking trails, shops, restaurants, a first-class spa and a local pub where you can unwind to live music by local singer/songwriters.

Last, but not least, we want to thank our readers for their support and feedback, our advertisers for their incredible partnerships, and our team for all the time and talent they contribute to making RSVP a huge success!

CHEERS!

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RSVP Montgomery, Inc. 505 Cloverdale road, Unit 104 montgomery, al 36106

Kim Traff

The Junior League of Montgomery Presents

Present your Shop, Save, Serve shopping pass to participating retailers and recieve a

20% Discount* *Some exclusions apply

MARCH 22 THROUGH

MARCH 31

Over 180 participating River Region Retailers!

Purchase $30 Shopping Passes from any Junior League Member and at the following locations: The Locker Room| Welle Studio Barbs on Mulberry | Splurge The Shoppes at Eastchase My Kids Attic | You and Me Boutique

jlmontgomery.org /juniorleaguemontgomery

Proceeds from the sale of passes benefit the community projects of the Junior League of Montgomery.

Tuscany

Meets the South 16

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n Northeast Georgia, only an hour away from Atlanta, lies a picturesque little mountain town whose people welcome you like an old, beloved friend. They welcome you to their town, their faces smiling, their arms wide open, to a destination so beautiful, so verdant, it’s as if it’s been plucked from the front of a postcard. It’s a town that’s charming and alluring, yet mysterious and surprising. It’s a town whose streets are lined with art galleries upon art galleries, whose wooded forests are sprinkled with waterfalls upon waterfalls, whose lush hillsides are teeming with vineyards upon vineyards. It’s a town full of wonder, full of life. It’s where Asheville meets Mayberry. Where the bountiful beauty of Tuscany meets the South.

It’s a town like nothing else, both captivating and alluring. It’s Dahlonega.

Upon entering historic downtown Dahlonega, you can’t help but be lured by its authenticity. It’s a town devoid of tourist traps, a town that meets you with an antiquated appeal, a Norman Rockwell-like feel, the town’s center telling tales of the good ole days – days when the pace was slow, calming, even melodic.

Days when there was no muss, no fuss. From an old-fashioned barber shop complete with a spinning blue, red and white striped pole, to a general store chock-full of quirky finds and creaky floors that lend themselves to a feeling of nostalgia, to a movie theater with an old-fashioned marquee, downtown Dahlonega is steeped in stories to tell and memories to endure.

The memories go back to 1828, when Dahlonega was the site of the first major gold rush in the country, and beyond the town’s courthouse, built in 1836, sits Price Memorial Hall, whose peaked roof is made from gold found during this time. This same gold was also used to create the dome of Atlanta’s capitol building, and visitors to Dahlonega can get to know more about the town’s storied gold history by visiting the Dahlonega Gold Museum, taking an underground tour of a former gold mine through Consolidated Gold Mining Company, or panning for gold and gemstones at Crisson Gold Man.

By: Liz Vinson • Photos provided by Dahlonega-Lumpkin County Chamber & Visitors Bureau

But Dahlonega is more than gold. It’s been thought of as being one of the best places to retire, and for good reason, but the town has also become known as a quintessential destination for hikers and lovers of Mother Nature.

At Amicalola Falls State Park, visitors flock to hike to Amicalola Falls, the highest cascading waterfall east of the Mississippi River, where the water gushes and tumbles downward 729 feet from the mountain tops, its size jaw-dropping, mesmerizing.

Once you’ve reached the top, an 8.5-mile trail leads from the park to Springer Mountain, where hikers begin their trek northward to the Appalachian Trail. For the more novice hiker, there are shorter day hikes provided within the 829 stunning acres that make up the park, where lovers of the great outdoors can wind their way through diverse trails that offer spectacular views of North Georgia’s wilderness. Reward yourself afterwards with a trip to Mountain Laurel Creek Inn and Spa, where you can enjoy some R &R and pampering through a

variety of spa services from a hot-stone or deep-tissue massage, to a facial, or a couple’s de-stress package.

In addition to hiking, Dahlonega is known as the heart of Georgia’s wine country, and their top-tier varietals rival Cakebread’s chardonnay or Jordan’s cabernet sauvignon. As you circle away from your bed and breakfast or cozy inn toward one of the town’s six vineyards, you’ll carve your way through the highway, meandering past sprawling farms and enchanting cottages, the mountains rising in the horizon, making you feel transported. It’s as if you’re lost, but pleasantly so. Here, you’re somewhere else. Somewhere where everything is quiet, everything is still. It’s not until you reach 501 Hightower Church Road that you realize you’ve been daydreaming, and as you drive through the entrance of Montaluce Winery and Restaurant, you’re met with an expansive vineyard offering panoramic views of grapevines and emerald hilltops.

Inside, the ambiance is chic and sophisticated, and wine bottles line the wall behind the bar top, tempting you to treat yourself with a bit of wine tasting. Enjoy their red or white flights, or take a leap of faith and go straight for their sparkling mead. While dining, enjoy pan-seared Atlantic salmon or a prime New York strip steak with confit potatoes, shaved brussel sprouts and baby carrots. The next day, head to Wolf Mountain Vineyards, only a short drive away, for another Napa Valley-type experience. Wine maker Brannon Boegner aims to please, so try the Chanteloup, a white wine that favors a pinot grigio, then order a Margherita pizza to eat on the patio that overlooks the wedding pavilion.

For a night out, head to Spirits Tavern for a creative take on a hearty hamburger, or try the oysters and other seafood flown in from around the world at Back Porch Oyster Bar. Owner Lee Creef takes pride in providing Dahlonega with the highest quality of seafood, and the tuna ceviche makes the heart race.

After dinner, head to The Crimson Moon Café located nearby in the heart of downtown. This tiny, intimate music venue is a must while visiting, and like the Bluebird Café in Nashville, singers / songwriters perform in the café’s comfortable and relaxed setting, where the only requirement by patrons is to look and listen. Quickly earning a name for itself as Dahlonega’s best dive bar, The Crimson Moon Café is garnering traffic from artists in Nashville, including Ashley McBryde and Sarah Peacock, who have both performed here.

should be. Here, every room has been decorated flawlessly, and no one room is the same. Gold starburst mirrors juxtapose the dark, wooden walls of one room, while the room beside it is light and elegant, with ivorycolored accent pieces that make you feel as if you’re in a dreamlike oasis. Bought by Zack and Lauren Tumlin as a second home in July of 2017, Tumlin House is quickly gaining momentum as one of Dahlonega’s best accomodations, so bring your friends to enjoy this enviable and affordable retreat that sits only a block away from downtown.

When the time eventually comes to leave this tiny mountain town, chances are, you won’t want to.

You’ll feel an immediate longing to return once you’ve left. After all, the town has everything you need and want, minus the hustle and bustle of its neighboring metropolis. It’s art. It’s theatre. It’s wine. It’s nature.

It’s relaxation and adventure, all mixed into one. It’s Dahlonega.

When sleep gradually calls out to you, you have your pick of where to stay. From Long Mountain Lodge, a bed and breakfast that serves the lightest, airiest and most immaculate tasting waffles, to the newest accommodation in town, Tumlin House, this town has you covered. Should you be traveling to Dahlonega with a group, which many are due to the town’s popularity with weddings, bachelorette parties and family reunions, Tumlin House ups the ante on what an overnight stay in a farmhouse

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AWARENESS NATIONAL INFERTILITY AWARENESS WEEK By: Ashley Whittle Tiedt

I know what you’re thinking, America doesn’t need one more “awareness week” to think about. And you know what? We don’t, so don’t think of this as a week. Think of this as changing the narrative, helping to take away the stigma of the disease called infertility.

The World Health Organization defines infertility as “a disease of the reproductive system defined by the failure to achieve a clinical pregnancy after 12 months or more of regular unprotected sexual intercourse.” One in eight couples suffers from infertility, and there are a variety of reasons that couples are unable to conceive. With odds like this, it is incredibly likely that you know a couple who is suffering.

This is why National Infertility Awareness Week is so important. There are so many suffering and so few talking about this disease. But how can you raise awareness about something you know nothing about? As the mother of an IVF baby, let me hit the high notes for you:

1. It’s not just a women’s issue. A friend once said to me “it’s so great that your husband is willing to put up with all this for you.” The funny thing is my problems were small when it came to our fertility issues. My husband’s issues were the cause of most of the hurdles we jumped.

2. Everyone’s issues are not necessarily similar in nature. If I sat you down in a group

full of infertile couples, each would have their own unique set of issues and treatments.

3. It can take a toll on your marriage and your friendships I am married to a wonderful

man and have some amazing friends, but things change when you struggle with infertility.

The injections make you crazy, irrational and sometimes unsociable. Your friends who are struggling need you to love them through the crazy, even when they aren’t being the best friend to you. They need you, even if they don’t think they do.

What I’ve given you is just a snapshot of infertility.

It’s not earth shattering or life changing, unless you take your newfound knowledge and do something with it. So this April 23- 29th, take a minute to learn a little more and share what you’ve learned with a friend or post it on social media. This Infertility Awareness Week, start a conversation and allow the couples who are struggling in silence to know they have one more ally in a world that tells them to remain silent.

SATURDAY, APRIL 21 11 AM - 2 PM | NEAR GAP Fido Marketplace | Live Music Doggie Splash Zone Food Trucks | Pet Adoptions IN SUPPORT OF

MAR /APR 2018 RSVP 21

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A NEW LIFESTYLE IS calling your name

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Kim Traff 334-354-2577

By: Ashley Whittle Tiedt

I

n 2008, The United States elected its first African American president, Congress bailed out the big three automakers, China hosted the Summer Olympics, Heath Ledger died and a little publication called RSVP Montgomery was born. Despite the economic crash in 2008, two friends in Montgomery, Alabama, were determined to make their dreams of starting a magazine a reality.

Some things have changed since 2008: Kim Traff is now the sole owner and publisher of the magazine. Some staff members have come and gone and come back home again, but the mission remains the same - be the River Region guide for all things social while helping entrepreneurs grow and flourish. “It’s hard to say what the best part of the past 10 years have been. It’s a tight race between several incredible events we have hosted and the solid business relationships we’ve built.

I definitely have a heart for local, small businesses,” says Traff. It’s that passion for shopping local that keeps RSVP rolling.

Traff says she sees the magazine as a platform for small business and a way to give back to her community. That passion has developed into a sense of camaraderie.

In a sense, Traff is fighting the small business battle right alongside them.

Not only is the team at RSVP passionate about the local businesses featured in the magazine, but also about the team of contributors they work with that aid in the magazine’s success. Whether it be the folks behind the camera, the talented writers, graphic designers or stylists… the production is definitely a group effort, and the contributors reciprocate the love.

Photographer Josh Moates has been working with RSVP since its start in 2008 and says, “They are so easy to work with and they give you the creative freedom you need to create. I really take ownership in that magazine with the amount of time I have put into it. I love it, and I really love the people behind it!”

Traff says hands down her most valuable assets are team members, Editor Peyton Flowers and Creative Director Carl Adams.

Peyton has worked with RSVP for seven years, first as an intern, then full time before moving away for a year. As soon as she returned she came back to

RSVP and never missed a beat. “Peyton makes everything more fun! Whether it’s finding the silver lining in frustrating circumstances or her hilarious off-the-wall comments, I couldn’t do the job without her,” Traff says. When asked about Carl, Traff laughed and said, “The first day I met Carl, he took one look at the RSVP logo which was really horrible and told us that it had to go. He re-designed the logo (the only one you guys will ever see) and has served as creative director for RSVP ever since. He is talented, reliable, and super funny… no matter what we throw at him last minute, he never loses his cool. He is the longest standing member of our team and we just love him!

If you have followed RSVP over the years, you know they know how to host a party.

Over the last decade, they have created and hosted numerous events including pubcrawls, wine festivals, restaurant hops, casino nights, vintage-themed parties and many magazine release parties. When they aren’t hosting their own events, the team at RSVP is often lending a hand to others trying to get their fundraisers and businesses off the ground. They donate over $10,000 in advertising each year to nonprofit organizations.

Five years ago, in an article similar to this, Traff said the goal of the magazine was to take the words “there’s nothing to do in Montgomery” out of people’s mouth, and as an avid reader, (before and after becoming a contributor) I believe she continues to succeed. But on this 10th anniversary, she hopes people pick up RSVP and get a true and positive pulse of Montgomery.

The magazine’s success wouldn’t be possible without the readers. You are whom they are working for and whom they want to hear from as the magazine celebrates this anniversary. If you have an idea or feedback for the RSVP team, you can email editor@rsvp-montgomery.com.

In 2018, North and South Korea united under one flag in the Olympics for the first time in 12 years, a democrat from Alabama was sworn into Congress for the first time in 25 years, and a well-known RSVP magazine continues to make waves across the River Region.

REFLECTIONS “I love my job because I am doing something different every day – whether it is working with our advertisers (who have become more like family) working on our website, planning a photo shoot or staying up in the wee hours while trying to meet a deadline. Every issue is a physical representation of our hard work, and it is a joy to promote the many events, outstanding businesses and dynamic people in our great city.” - Peyton Flowers “I remember when Kim approached me back in 2008 to shoot some photography for the magazine, I could see the energy in her eyes about the project. I really feed off of other peoples energy when it comes to working together.

So naturally I was excited to be a part of it, and even after these 10 years, it is still as exciting as the first shoot we did.” - Josh Moates “It’s been a joy working with Kim and Peyton and the rest of the RSVP team for 10 years now. It makes my job as the creative director so much easier having all of the talented and passionate people that surround me.”Carl Adams

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BEHIND THE SCENES Wi t h A dv e rt i s e r s

We love working with our advertisers to get the perfect photo shoots for stories and advertisements.

Here’s a look at some of our work… or shall we say fun!

Baker’s Painting & Art

BB Kings

Bama Budweiser

Bustle

ACS

Club Pilates

Dougs 2

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Central

Hampstead Hop

free! INTRO CLASS

Henig Furs

TRY A

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CORE STRENGTH | MIND & BODY CONNECTION FLEXIBILITY | FULL BODY WORKOUT & STRETCH

CLUB PILATES EAST MONTGOMERY 8143 Vaughn Rd., Montgomery, AL 36116 (334) 603-8055 | eastmontgomery@clubpilates.com CLUBPILATES.COM /EASTMONTGOMERY Follow us! Facebook.com/ClubPilatesEastMontgomery

*One free demo class per person; appointment required. Valid at participating location. Call or email studio for details. Franchises available. ©2017 Club Pilates Franchise, LLC.

MAR /APR 2018 RSVP 27

Welle Studio

N’ Shape

Plastic Surgery Associates On A Roll

Rockin’ Jump

Railyard

SOL

SAZA

The Locker Room Vintage Year

The Shoe Shop 28

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MONTGOMERY’S MOST UNIQUE GATHERING SPOT LUNCH & DINNER MENU FEATURING OUR FAMOUS HOT DOGS, LEGENDARY PIMENTO CHEESE AND CROWD PLEASING COOKIE SKILLETS

OUR BEER GARDEN. YOUR PARTY. OUR OUTDOOR BEER GARDEN IS THE PERFECT SPOT FOR HOSTING PRIVATE EVENTS. FOR MORE INFORMATION, CALL 334.260.9110.

MAR. 7 • TAP TAKEOVER WITH WILD HEAVEN BEER MAR. 13 • TRIVIA NIGHT AT THE TIPPING POINT MAR. 17 • ST. PATRICK’S DAY SHINDIG

Eastbrook Flea Market & Antique Mall 425 Coliseum Boulevard 334.277.4027

WE’D LOVE TO CATER YOUR NEXT EVENT. GIVE US A CALL! tippingpointhampstead.com facebook.com/thetippingpoint

In the Know.

In the Now. In your Inbox.

Sign up for our weekly newsletter at www.rsvp-montgomery.com

•

•

334.260.9110

@tippingpointhampstead

EVENTS

From teen and corporate parties to wine events and pub crawls, RSVP has created or assisted with multiple events and fundraisers over the past ten years. Montgomery sure is fun!

Corks in the Courtyard

fiRSt frIDAYS

foOd trUCKs

foOd trUCK

pARK SeatınG

lıVE muSıC

taKE ovER

July 7 • AUGUSt 4

FROM 4:30 TO 8:30 P.M. HAMPSTEAD TOWN CENTER

EACH FRIDAY FEATURES A VARIETY OF MONTGOMERY FOOD TRUCKS INCLUDING:

fıRe mEatS WOod • SoUthern SmokeshacK • eL cAMpEsinO’s nyC gYRO • ON a roLl • tHat’s mY DOg • friOS gOUrmEt pOPS thE alaBAmA SwEet tEa COmPanY DRINKS + FOOD FOR SALE AT HAMPSTEAD RESTAURANTS: THE TIPPING POINT • TASTE • CITY GRILL

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AVIAT O R

Thank you Kim Traff and RSVP Montgomery for

10 YEARS of BRILLIANCE Much of the awakening of Montgomery’s social scene and remarkable downtown revitalization are certainly due to the energy, enthusiasm, style and sophistication delivered by RSVP in those formative years for The Alley and our Downtown Entertainment District. Look forward to another ten years of being “in the know and on the go” with RSVP Montgomery! in Montgomery’s Downtown Entertainment District

www.facebook.com/aviatorbar AlleyBAR . AviatorBAR . SandBAR . Commerce BeerWorks The Bucket . Graham Woods . Numbers . The Upper Room

EVENTS

Corporate Events

Pub Crawls

Casino Parties

Teen Parties

Tom Brokaw Book Signing

Ribbon Cutting 1st Year

MAR /APR 2018 RSVP 33

COMMERCIAL

3 3 4 . 2 62 . 19 58

REAL ESTATE

M o o r e C o m p an yR e al ty . c o m

SOLUTIONS

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Moore Company Realty, Inc. | Moore Property Management, LLC 3 12 C ATOM A S T , S UI TE 2 00 M ON TG OM ER Y , A L 36 104

TEAM & TEAMWORK Our success wouldn’t have been possible without the incredible team of contributors who share their talent, energy, creativity and time with us. There have been times you had to be serious and work under a major time crunch and times we did silly, ridiculous things to get the perfect shots.

You are like family and this is our tribute to you! Cheers to many more years together!

MAR /APR 2018 RSVP 35

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ELOTES

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RSVP MAR /APR 2018

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DID YOU KNOW? One of the things you might’ve noticed about us is that we like to have FUN! Josh Moates, one of our favorite photographers, took the fun to a new level when he started using Photoshop to hide animals in our LIST photos a few years ago. Below are just a few examples of the secrets hidden within our pages you’ll find when you dig a little deeper!

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Fresh Gulf Seafood, Hand Cut Steaks, Excellent Wine & Spirits with Outstanding Service

From office luncheons and receptions to large scale weddings and formal dinners, Vintage Year provides private restaurant dining, gourmet to go and full service catering.

www.vymgm.com

OLD CLOVERDALE

IN motion

“

Magic

The

Dating ” By: Cat Williams

of

I field a lot of questions about my rather unconventional life between NYC and LA. But the questions I hear most have nothing to do with my life in Broadway theater, writing for a fashion magazine, or my giant bank of frequent flyer miles. Nope, people just want to know about my dating life.

It would stand to reason that living in two of the country’s largest and most diverse cities, I would have seen some pretty good dating action. This reasoning would be epically flawed. Quantity does not translate into quality. I’ve spent a lot of time on the front lines, Carrie-Bradshaw style, but the results have been more paltry than ring-finger ready.

There was the Emmy awardwinning television writer whose love for his Jersey Shore vacation home far exceeded any love he could have for an actual human being. I was unaware that real estate in Snooki-ville could be so alluring. But as I learned, the light odor of mildew, a set of royal purple sofas and a foosball table were things with which I could never compete. When a house takes precedence, you take a cab back home to Manhattan.

I met a third-grade teacher at the gym in LA who took me on a dinner date to a food court. And no, he wasn’t 13. After tray eating and an uncomfortable window-shopping excursion, he suggested a fro-yo.

People, I don’t turn down dessert. So we queued up, he requested a sample, and then promptly exited stage left.

Confused, I followed suit minus the sample. “Oh man, you didn’t get one? You really blew it. I could have had yours.” Indeed I did.

I made many an error in judgment that we can file under the moniker of showmance. For you non-theater folk, “showmance” is defined as a burning attraction to someone you would never otherwise find attractive simply because you are quarantined in a theater every waking moment and have no contact with the outside world. I proceeded to embark on a 48-hour crush on Bronson Pinchot who, for the record, becomes aggressively angry if you ask him to throw down the famous Perfect Strangers Balki Bartokomous line, “Don’t be ridiculous.” I’m serious. DO NOT ASK HIM. I barked up the tree of a recovering alcoholic lighting designer, a manorexic actor who food shamed me for eating carbs and dated a well-known TV star famous

for captaining a space ship. None of it ended well.

There was a race car driver from Bel Air obsessed with monster flicks, a self-proclaimed heavy-metal god who raced my Saab (quite illegally) through the LA river, the saxophone player who lost an eye in a childhood rubber band accident, and on and on. But of all the dating anecdotes I could spill, the most pivotal could be summed up in only one word.

Magician.

As a single gal, if you swim in the dating pool long enough you will, at some unexpected moment, hear that dreaded word. It’s a numbers game. Sooner or later you will sit opposite someone who makes a living as a cape-wearing, card-trickperforming, pull-a-rabbit-out-of-ahat magician. I understand needing to put yourself through college, but there are more reasonable options.

Namely bartending, waitressing, temp work or stripping. Magicking as a career is not something I am emotionally stable enough to handle.

It finally happened to me a couple of years ago in the form of a lawyer turned magician. Was he nice? Very.

Was he a gentleman? He was. Could I get past the magic? Nope. But I was curious.

And before you ask, here are the answers. Yes, he wears a cape and a costume purchased at a casino fire sale off the Vegas Strip. Scarves are crucially important. He doesn’t do ventriloquism, it’s a different skill set. Ditto for sword swallowing. He doesn’t currently own a rabbit, he rents one for now. He could use a pretty assistant to saw in half.

Toward the end of the date, he asked me how I felt about disappearing. Truthfully? Not great. And with that, I had everything I needed. I simply could not picture my future self saying, “This is my husband. He’s a tax attorney, but you should see him pull a dove out of his pants.” Look, even Claudia Schiffer finally dumped David Copperfield. And he could list wealthy and famous at the top of his magical resume.

I have yet to give up on dating. But if eHarmony tosses me a clown next week, I quit.

www.theretireddebutante.com Follow me on Instagram @TheRetiredDebutante MAR /APR 2018 RSVP 47

RSVP MAR /APR 2018 By48Anna Shay Wasden • Photos by Josh Moates / Kim Box Photography

MAR /APR 2018 RSVP 49

the LIST JERI GROCE Jeri Sharpe Groce, CPA, is a senior manager in the Audit & Attestation Group at Warren Averett, LLC. Jeri graduated from the University of Alabama in 2003 and attained her Master of Accountancy in 2004. As a certified public accountant, Jeri serves nonprofit organizations, universities, foundations and other municipalities.

She says, “I love being in our client’s offices and interacting with those who so passionately serve their mission. I get to be a small part of that by helping our clients thrive and building the public’s trust.” Montgomery has always been home for Jeri - it is where her father flew F-16s in the Air Force, where she went on her first date with her husband and where she sends her children to school at St. James School, the same school she attended kindergarten through senior year. Jeri is married to Hunter Groce, and the couple shares two sons, Davis and Miller.

She is currently the president of the board of directors of the Family Sunshine Center. She is also a Torchbearer’s Class V graduate and on the Children’s of Alabama Committee for the Future.

DR. STEVEN SIRMON Dr. Steven Sirmon, a native of Montgomery and graduate of Auburn University, serves the River Region as a dedicated veterinarian. His love for helping people translates through the care he gives their furry friends. He says, “Although I work with dogs and cats, I really love the relationships I have developed over the years with clients and fellow employees.” With over eight years of experience under his belt, Steven just recently opened a new veterinary hospital, Partners for Pets. He owes his success to his family, thanking them for the sacrifices they make through the unpredictable hours he works. Steven and wife Kellie have four children - Hadley, Harper, Josie and Jace. When Steven has time off from his demanding jobs as a veterinarian and father, he can be seen playing golf, watching Auburn sporting events and attending weekly Bible study. He is an involved member of Landmark Church of Christ. Steven serves as a sponsor of Montgomery American Girls Softball, treasurer of Central Alabama Veterinary Medical Association and member of the Jimmy Hitchcock Award Committee.

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BRENT MOESHLIN A longtime lover of comics, Brent Moeshlin decided to translate his passion into a business over eighteen years ago. Quality Comix is a comic business that serves the River Region by providing high-quality collectables. As with any business owner, Brent has seen his fair share of adversity in the marketplace. Luckily for him, he has had many examples to look to for advice throughout the years.“My dad has always owned his own business so growing up and watching him has been the biggest influence on my success and what’s possible in the business world,” he says. Brent’s passion for finding rare collectibles and sharing them with Montgomery is apparent in his work. He highlights the community’s extreme support of Quality Comix. They have participated in dress-up events and featured the business in their podcasts. Brent is married to Megan Moeshlin and has two children, Daylon and Olivia. He enjoys contributing to reading programs and listening to live music in downtown Montgomery. Brent is a competitive swimmer who stays active through basketball and other sports.

KATHERINE MALLINI Working within the human resources realm, Learning and Development Specialist Katherine Mallini serves the employees of Hyundai Motor Manufacturing Alabama, LLC. She says, “I have the ability to make someone’s life a little better. That’s the benefit of being in human resources. People place their trust in you with the expectation that you will offer them the best possible outcome.” Her liberal arts education at Huntingdon College gave her the tools and connections necessary to become the employee she is today. She is very involved in the community and enjoys serving as a member of St. Peter’s Catholic Church, a Conference Advisory Committee member of Troy University Continuing Education and Outreach Leadership, a team captain for the Montgomery Area Food Bank Drive, and a Distinguished Young Women State Committee member. She is an avid animal rescuer and enjoys running in local 5K and half-marathon events. When Katherine is not working or volunteering, she loves spending time with her two “fur babies,” Obie and Penny.

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the LIST JONATHAN AVANT Jonathan Avant, a Montgomery native, has an infectious enthusiasm about life that spills over into his work and volunteerism. He is currently the assistant vice president and businessbanking officer for BBVA Compass Bank and is also a jazz trumpeter. Ten years in the banking industry have served Jonathan Michael Avant well. He says, “The biggest obstacle that I had to overcome was my fear of being too young to be taken seriously. However, I quickly found out that my age allowed for a fresh, innovative approach towards helping my clients run their businesses more safely and efficiently in today’s economy.” His creativity has given him the vision for a better community filled with a productive economy and contributing consumers.

Jonathan volunteers as an ambassador of the Montgomery Chamber of Commerce and on the boards of The Family Guidance’s Success by Six program and Music Education on Wheels. A trumpet player since childhood, Jonathan now co-owns a local live-music studio and plans to release his first jazz and funk album soon. He plans to fulfill his dream of going on tour as a musician in 2019. He and his wife, Jessica, have two daughters, Jazz and Juliana, as well as two dogs named Rocky and Chex.

SUSAN RAINEY Susan Rainey’s career as a Rodan + Fields consultant has skyrocketed over the past few years. After attaining two master’s degrees from Auburn University and working as a kindergarten teacher, Susan elected to begin a new career as the owner of a global dermatological skincare business. She has already earned the honor of becoming an RFx Circle Achiever and Lexus Achiever. She says, “Montgomery’s community comes together to support small businesses and to aid in networking with other professionals. I have been in awe of the support and celebration from people in this town.” In addition to Montgomery’s extreme support of her business, Susan is also very grateful for encouragement from her parents.

Her father, an entrepreneur as well, taught her the importance of hard work and integrity.

Despite her busy career, Susan finds time to enjoy spending time with loved ones and taking advantage of all Montgomery offers. Susan has an English pointer named Ruby Windsor and a boykin spaniel named Angus. She is an avid equestrian, bird hunter and plays the violin and piano. In her spare time, she enjoys billfishing, volunteering at MANE and traveling abroad.

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SHARON SILVERMAN As a first-generation college graduate, Sharon Silverman had many obstacles to overcome.

“I had to overcome the fear that I could not succeed. I guess you can say I found my inner strength and proved myself and some others wrong,” she says. Sharon certainly did just that as she worked diligently to attain a degree from Auburn University Montgomery in nursing and an eventual master’s degree in science from UAB. She is a nurse practitioner that is NeuroVascular board certified and has over 16 years of experience with the neuroscience field. Sharon loves making a difference in people’s lives- giving them comfort in their time of need. Sharon is married to Jeff Silverman and has six childrenGrant, Jack, Josh, Libby, Gabriel and Emilee. As a native of Montgomery, Sharon is excited about the continuous growth of the city. What little free time she gets in her high-demand job she spends traveling, attending sporting games and exercising at NShape Fitness.

ANDREW FITCH Andrew Fitch currently works as a financial advisor at First Command Financial Services.

After Andrew’s enlistment in the Air Force ended, he completed his bachelor’s degree in finance and is now diligently working to complete his MBA. His family fuels his motivation for success.

He says,“My wife and two children are 99.9% my reason for any success. Transitioning out of the military was terrifying and a career as a financial advisor is incredibly difficult when starting out.

If it wasn’t for the support of my family, I would have quit then.” He and wife, Ashley, have two children - Nolan and Rylee. His wife’s current Air Force enlistment brought the couple to Maxwell Air Force Base in Montgomery. He was nervous about starting out in a new city, but notes Montgomery’s community as one of the most supportive and helpful he has seen. He has sponsored many military-based seminars on finances and retirement. He also hosts an event called Stocks and Scotch at Capital City Club each month. Most of his free time is spent supporting his children in their extracurricular activities and holding the honor of being the youngest member of the Montgomery Bridge Club.

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the LIST

ZAC CHAMES Working as a REALTOR and serving as an Air Force Reservist keeps Zac Chames, a Montgomery local, very busy. He is a Marine Corps veteran who currently works for Keller Williams Realty. A graduate of John Patterson Technical School and Troy University, Zac knows the value of hard work. After working as a mortgage loan officer, Zac found his niche for real estate. He says, “What I love most about what I do is helping others accomplish their financial goals through the purchase and sale of real estate. It really is a confidence booster for them.” The loss of his parents- his biggest role models and supporters- has driven him to retain the values they instilled in him. Zac’s free time is spent kayaking, tailgating and spending time with his son, Zaylon. He also volunteers as a team coach with Sonshine Soccer, is an involved member of Maxwell AFB 56ers and is a contributor with YoungLife Montgomery.

SARA DARBY SMITH Sara Darby Smith holds many titles, including clinical mental health counselor, somatic psychotherapist and yoga instructor. Her passion for helping those with chronic health problems is obvious in the work she does at Grace Point Behavioral. The owner of Grace Point Behavioral, Caroline Abolade, has been a tremendous asset in her career. “It was extremely important for me to specialize in somatic psychotherapy due to my passion for helping those with chronic health problems and trauma histories, both of which I have experienced myself,” Sara Darby explains.

Her extensive education background includes degrees from Auburn and Troy Universities.

She also received a specialization in somatic psychotherapy from the Mountain Area Health Education Center in Asheville, North Carolina, while simultaneously training to be a certified yoga instructor. The city of Montgomery has been instrumental in her success so far; the city’s character reflected in its ability to accept such an important service. She cites her husband and parents as her biggest support systems. They helped her achieve things she never considered possible. Sara Darby and husband, Elliott Smith, enjoy traveling, exercising and spending time with their 13-year-old weimaraner, Jazzy, in their free time.

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JENNY STUBBS Jenny Enslen Stubbs, owner of Frios Gourmet Pops, knows the significance of owning a business downtown. She describes Dexter Avenue as full of history and excitement—the perfect place for the newest addition to the Frios’ chain. “When it comes to downtowns, they’re typically the epicenter of a community’s history and are places that cannot be replicated,” she says. Also serving as executive director of Main Street Wetumpka and being a member of area Chambers of Commerce, Jenny has a hand in many aspects of the River Region’s business world. Jenny is a River Region native and is a graduate of The University of Alabama; since her education, she has lived throughout the Southeastern United States and worked in the publishing industry, primarily with health magazines. Jenny credits her husband for motivating her to use challenges in life, such as dealing with her mother’s illness, to make her stronger. She says, “When my mother died of pancreatic cancer three years ago, it was very difficult but helped me to embrace life and make the most of the moments we’re given.” Jenny and her husband, Troy Stubbs, are the proud parents of four children: Isaac, Elsa, Lucas and Bennett.

DANIEL TAYLOR Daniel Taylor works diligently as the assistant principal at Coosooda Elementary School in Elmore County. He obtained his Bachelor of Science degree fromTroy University before going on to complete two master’s degrees from Troy University Montgomery and Auburn University Montgomery, as well as an education specialist degree from AUM. He is currently pursuing a doctorate degree from the University of Alabama Birmingham. Daniel is in his thirteenth year in education, and his favorite parts of his job are the children and the opportunity to make a difference in young lives each day. Daniel’s family plays an important role in his daily happiness and attributes God as his guide. He says, “God placed me with parents who valued and pushed for me to obtain an education. Then God place my wife and numerous friends in my life who motivate me daily.” He and his wife, Jessie, have a three-year-old daughter named Harper Claire.

When Daniel is not serving his school, he is contributing to the Millbrook Men’s Club, an organization striving to better the Millbrook community. He is a member of the First United Methodist Church of Prattville and enjoys the outdoors and fishing.

“We believe that everyone is created in God’s image, and African American young men are definitely not an exception. We are out to prove that there is not an achievement gap as much as it is an opportunity gap. Our goal is to level the playing field by exposing our young men to as much as possible in a highly-rigorous academic setting.” These words by Anthony Brock, principal and co-founder of Valiant Cross Academy, capture the dream that came alive for Brock and his brother, Fred, when they founded the academy in 2015 with the goal to educate and shape the lives of young men in Montgomery.

By: Angela Hardgrave • Photos by: Jon Cook / High 5 Productions

Valiant Cross Academy is an all-male private school based on Christian principles with “an intentional culture of structure and discipline.” It is located on Dexter Avenue in downtown Montgomery in the old historic Dexter Avenue Methodist Church. At its founding in 2015, the academy had thirty students.

Director of Development Kimberly Baker said, “Anthony and Fred Brock went door to door to find the first thirty students. Both men were concerned with the low college-readiness rate of African American males in Montgomery and the challenges that they face. Now we have three grades, sixth through eighth, with ninety students—thirty per grade and two classes per grade. We have a waiting list of hundreds. We plan to add a grade each year until we have reached twelfth grade.”

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The dream of adding a high school will now be realized, thanks to a partnership with Troy University. Beginning in August of 2018, Valiant Cross Academy’s high school will be located on the campus of Troy University in downtown Montgomery. “We were looking for a building for about a year. We were worried because we were out of space. Now we have an amazing partnership that will be a win-win situation for both Valiant Cross and Troy.

Troy will offer our scholars services on a university level, including instruction, foreign-language classes from the Confucius Institute, and access to the university’s library and Rosa Parks Museum,” said Baker. Anthony

Brock knows this partnership will be highly beneficial to their scholars and will make the goal of a college education an attainable reality in their lives. “We are blessed to partner with Troy University to house our high school. I am happiest that the scholars will have the opportunity to be on a college campus everyday throughout their high school career. We are looking forward to possibly creating student observation and internship opportunities, dual enrollment for our scholars, and also the chance to look at foreignlanguage offerings on campus. Troy University has graciously opened their doors and all of our minds to endless possibilities,” said Brock.

The effect on the lives of the young men and their families has been incredible, and it is evident in every area of their lives. Brock said, “I have seen a tremendous amount of growth from the young men

who attend Valiant Cross Academy. I am proud to say that I see the most growth in their spirituality, maturity and academic prowess.

We are also very happy with the parental support we receive. Our parents are just as hungry to see their young men succeed as we are. It is a true collaboration. The adults connected to the young men have also seen growth. When you sacrifice yourself daily in every way possible to pour into the lives of our scholars, it quickly becomes a labor of love that changes you forever. The scholars were already awesome young people who we are honored to work with every day.” Baker shares the same outlook on the strides they have made in these young lives. She said, “They are challenged academically, but also taught to be leaders and good men—good husbands, fathers and members of their community. They help more at home and are more respectful, both at home and in public. Anthony and Fred Brock have become father figures to them. They are teaching them character, integrity, respect and love. The scholars are told that they are loved daily.

They also have each others’ backs and have formed a brotherhood with each other…a connection they will always have.”

Not only has Valiant Cross changed the lives of their students and families, it has also had an impact on our city. The students are invited to be speakers at community events. There is a waiting list for volunteers, and they regularly have visitors stop by to see the work that’s happening there. Baker said, “Mayor Todd Strange pops by often to say hi. We’ve even had NFL players stop by to visit. It’s happened so much that the scholars aren’t even fazed by it anymore.

I’ve seen grown men cry seeing these boys all together.”

Their impact is reaching beyond the River Region, however. They are competing against larger cities for national grants that use a voting platform. Within the last six months, the community has pulled together to vote, and Valiant Cross has risen to the top of the voting platform. All of the academy’s funding is from private donors—there are no federal dollars received. They raise funds through corporations, grants and individual donors. Some students are able to take advantage of the Alabama Accountability Act, which is a state-funded scholarship program.

As with most organizations that are privately funded, money is their biggest challenge.

That’s where you can help! To find out more about donating to this worthwhile cause, email Kimberly Baker at kimberly@valiantcross.org, or check out their website at valiantcross.org.

The faculty and staff of Valiant Cross see great things for their students’ futures, and they plan to stand behind and support them for as long as they can. They are changing lives so that these young men can go out and change the world. As Kimberly Baker said, “God has truly blessed this place.”

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FAVORITE

ISSUES The past 10 years have brought a lot of exciting moments for our city and the RSVP team. Looking back at past issues is like going back in time, a trip down memory lane reminding us of all the fun we’ve had, progress we’ve made and the people who make putting this little magazine together worth it – YOU! Since each issue is a labor of love, it was hard to narrow down our favorites, but we managed to do it. Here are five of our favorite issues from the past decade.

“What’s Up Downtown” “Just Keep Smiling with Giuliana & Bill Rancic” March/April 2013 We’ve met a lot of fine people through this magazine, but it’s not every day you get to interact with world-famous celebrities.

Television personalities Giuliana and Bill Rancic presented at a local charity event and RSVP had the pleasure of featuring the couple and the event. While we’ve had our fair share of diva-drama in the past, the Rancics were the sweetest to work with. Meeting them at the Just Keep Smiling event was a highlight for the RSVP team!

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May/June 2009 Before downtown Montgomery became the booming entertainment district we love today, there were run-down buildings filled with potential. This issue was released at the peak of the development of downtown’s entertainment scene, and the cover story highlights the openings of now-favorite businesses such as SaZa, AlleyBAR, 129 Coosa and Dreamland BBQ.

“The Spirit of Cloverdale“ Mar/April 2014

“Ultimate Man Guide”

Capturing the old-world charm of the Old Cloverdale district, this issue highlights non-chain, locallyowned hot spots such as El Rey, the Capri Theatre, Derk’s Filet & Vine and more, gives a history of Huntingdon College, and shines a light on legends of the community in the “Faces of Cloverdale” feature.

August 2011 The very first of our special edition issues, the “Ultimate Man Guide,” is special because it is our one-and-only issue dedicated solely to men. It is chock-full of content covering everything from men’s fashion, health issues and bar etiquette. The list of “25 Things a Man Should Never Do (on this planet)” will have every female nodding her head, and the “Bucket List” feature is something every man should read. Let’s hear it for the boys!

“50th Anniversary of Civil Rights Movement” March/April 2015 The year 2015 marked the 50th anniversary of the civil rights movement, and there were many tributes to our city’s role in the movement. This issue was dedicated to the courageous individuals and events that changed history. The cover story features a timeline of the civil rights struggle, and the vibrant cover art is a collection of scenes that were painted by Sunny Paulk on a mural displayed on Lee Street. There’s also a feature on Barrett Bailey, Rob Minervini and Jon Cook, the artists behind the two metal sculptures placed at the beginning and end of the National Historic Civil Rights Trail. You can view their work on the corners of Fairview Avenue and Oak Street and in the 5-Points area roundabout at Montgomery and Clayton Street.

Most of these issues can be viewed digitally on our website at www.rsvp-montgomery.com.

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don’t ask, doc tells

Grass Medicine

By Dr. Brian Richardson

M

edicine is defined by Webster’s dictionary as a substance or preparation used in treating disease. We are all familiar with pharmaceutical or prescription medications that have been studied in trials and approved for usage in patients. We hold fast the belief that these substances are given for the good of the patient with the intent to help prevent or alleviate some condition that may affect the well-being of ourselves, friends and loved ones. Unfortunately, even with the best intent, many prescription medications do cause harm. One doesn’t need to watch television for any extended period of time to find out that the drug created to help you may cause fatigue, diarrhea, spontaneous bleeding, erectile dysfunction, suicidal thoughts… and the list goes on and on. For many patients, even knowing there is a risk with the drug, the possible benefit is well worth it to them. We have an innate desire to avoid pain and suffering.

Pain is a big problem. The opioid crisis we are currently facing was, in part, born out of a desire to treat and prevent pain. Unfortunately, the properties of opioids can lead to addiction and that can ruin or end lives. There are now more deaths 62

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from opioid drug overdoses per year than breast cancer. Fortunately, I have never experienced chronic pain or the consequences of it. As a physician, I see it far too often with many of my patients. As a son, I watched it first hand when my mom battled pancreatic cancer. I would not wish that type of suffering on my worst enemy.

In recent years, there has been a big push by some to go “all natural.” Many patients have either lost faith in traditional medicine or traditional medicine has not been able to meet their needs. Homeopathic concoctions, herbs, spices and essential oils have gained a tremendous amount of attention based on hearsay and testimonials from patients who have been cured of some illness. Do they work? Perhaps they do, perhaps they do not.

Some would argue that drugs sales and medical treatments are such a money-making business that the government, drug companies and even doctors do not want the public to know about the “real cure” for cancer or other medical conditions. This type of conspiracy theory has certainly contributed to the search for alternative medicine and treatments. In my opinion, curiosity leads to a possible cure.

What if there were something that was all natural and might be able to alleviate many of the symptoms of pain? What if you could grow it in your back yard? What if it not only helped alleviate pain but also helped prevent seizures in children? What if it helped cancer patients with nausea and weight loss? What if your family member were at the end of their life and using this all-natural substance helped relieve their anxiety, pain and suffering? Wouldn’t you want to do anything and everything you possibly could to get them that substance? As I watched my mom grimace in pain day after day after day, I was desperate to provide her with anything possible to ease her pain.

For many, the words “medical” and “marijuana” just don’t fit together in the same sentence. The stigma of a pothead creates an image of college kids sitting on the couch, smoking a blunt, munching on chili-cheese Fritos and not contributing to society. The idea that this plant could do anything other than get you high, will not even be considered by some. Is there a potential for abuse? Yes, of course. Should it be legalized for recreational usage? That is a totally different topic. Is there a potential role for marijuana to be used in medicine to help relieve pain and suffering? I would strongly argue, yes! Twenty-nine states have passed laws that allow the use of medical marijuana. Alabama is not included in those 29 states. There has been some movement in that direction, including the passage of Carly’s Law a few years ago. However, many states still classify marijuana in the same category as cocaine or heroin.

Just because something is natural, does not mean it is good for you. Just because something can be abused, doesn’t mean there isn’t a role for it to be used in a positive way. Americans are a compassionate people. The pharmaceutical solution for pain has contributed to the opioid epidemic and the death toll and the number of ruined lives keeps rising. I would encourage everyone to take a step back from the idea that marijuana is just for the stoners and consider the idea that this truly is an “all-natural” plant that could be a part of the solution of treating pain and suffering.

Dr. Brian Richardson is Chief of Robotics and Minimally Invasive Surgery at Jackson Hospital and Clinic.

special feature

Hair Therapy T

By: Ashley Whittle Tiedt • Photos by: Nick Drollette

he smell of all-natural shampoo hits you when you walk into the lobby of Doug’s 2 Salon and Spa. The second you breathe it in, you are transported to a world of pampering, relaxation and the coveted “me time.” That’s just the experience owner and operator Doug Rice wants you to have when you enter his salon.

Rice knew from a young age that he wanted to be a hairdresser. He would watch the stylists at the salon

his mother used and then practice on his little sister.

When he was 14, the owner of the salon gave him a job washing hair. He had a passion even then, but he had to convince his parents to allow him to skip college and head straight to cosmetology school.

“My mom didn’t want me to do it, and my dad didn’t either. They wanted me to go to college. So the last six weeks of high school, they agreed that I could go.

I graduated in May and started cosmetology June first, before they could change their mind.”

Rice moved to Montgomery shortly after graduation.

He worked for three months before moving to another salon. Rice was there for three years before the owner sold the salon to him and three others. In a few years, he had bought the other owners out. After 25 years of owning that salon, Rice decided to expand the salon to include a spa. Ten years later, Doug’s 2 moved to the Peppertree Shopping Center on Vaughn Road and are continuing to ride their wave of success.

After 41 years of hair-raising success it’s safe to say that Doug Rice has seen and heard it all. Perhaps it’s because of the special relationships he has formed with his clients over the years. Rice says, “We’re called hair therapists, because we do many jobs...we’re like the priests. We keep it quiet, because they know they can talk to us…. we know more about families than the families know. I’ve got clients I’ve been serving for the whole 40 years I’ve been in business. I know way more than their kids know. I just tell them it goes in here (points to left ear) and out there (points to right ear) because it’s like talking to a priest. You keep it quiet.” It’s no secret that Rice has a special talent when it comes to styling but he says it’s about building a trusting relationship with clients.

Perhaps what keeps the clients coming back to the salon is the family atmosphere that you are entering into. “My biggest joy is working with people, whether it’s my staff or clients, because that is my life - it’s people,” said Rice. In the early years, the staff attended retreats in Hammond, Louisiana, where they would participate in team-building exercises while learning about teamwork and staying healthy.

The retreats helped the staff to stay connected as family. Rice says they are always looking to better themselves. He also requires that his stylists attend two continuing education classes each year to remain employed.

It’s because of that family relationship that Doug Rice is here today. Thirty-one years ago, he was diagnosed with a kidney disease, Focal Glumaria Sclerosis, and was told he had about five years to find a kidney or he would have to go on dialysis. The doctors discussed the diagnosis with Rice and suggested a new way of life to help combat the disease. He changed his diet and the way he lived and made it 31 years before a transplant was required. When he announced the need for a transplant, many on his team offered to see if they were a match. Guy, his partner of nearly 38 years, had already offered his kidney. Unfortunately, during the surgery, the surgeon tore Rice’s main vein and surgery and the transplant was immediately halted and efforts to save his life were underway.

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Rice credits his faith in God for giving him peace in such a difficult time. “I just said ‘well it wasn’t in God’s plan.’ I accepted it. I have a lot of faith in God that it is what it is supposed to be and moved on. I was the calmest one of everybody,” Rice said. While Rice’s life was saved, the kidney was not and the search for another kidney began. Staff member Kelly Hoots stepped up and asked to be tested to see if she was a match, and she was. In April of 2017, Rice went in for the second transplant attempt and it was successful. Rice says, “It’s odd for me to look at her everyday and think she’s inside me, but it is also a blessing.”

Now Rice is back in his happy place, behind the chair serving as a hair therapist and “priest” to his clients in Montgomery. “After you’ve worked for 41 years, you learn a lot, and I was going to be a psychiatrist if I hadn’t done this...it was great that the two worked together,” he said. While Rice may consider himself the hair therapist, having his salon and clients to come back to may have been all the therapy he needed after the transplant.

Kelly Hoots & Doug Rice

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2nd Annual February 2nd, 2018

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socially SEEN

T

he 2nd Annual Mom Prom, held on February 2nd, 2018, was an evening of fun as mothers and their sons danced the night away in The Warehouse at Alley Station. Due to the overwhelming success of last year’s event they held two Mom Proms in one night this year. Mom Prom had over 650 mothers and sons attend the two proms making this year a huge success!

The Mom Prom benefits Footprints Ministry, a nonprofit that ministers to families in the neonatal intensive care units in Montgomery. They minister to families through their footprints ministry gift bags and also assist with gas cards, hotel stays and restaurant gift cards. Footprints Ministry also has their “House of Hope” in Montgomery that houses out-of-town NICU families for free while their baby is in the NICU. The dance floor was full of mothers and sons dancing to their favorite party songs. There was even a surprise guest-Poppy, an Australian labradoodle. Poppy is the famous dental assistant at Bush Pediatric Dentistry who was also the ticket sponsor of Mom Prom. Poppy was dressed in a tux and enjoyed greeting all the prom guests. Many former Footprints families were in attendance at Mom Prom, and it was such a joy to see so many former preemie babies healthy and enjoying the night with their mothers!

Delicious food was catered by Debbie Kemsel Catering.

The buffet, sponsored by Baptist Health, included every boy’s favorites - pizza, hot dog sliders, chips and cheese dip, fruit skewers, popcorn with candy toppings, and a Krispy Kreme doughnut wall. Mary Sanders of Mary Me was the event planner and did an amazing job creating a beautiful prom to be remembered. Adorning the tables were floral box centerpieces filled with pink and peach tones of garden roses and greenery designed by Mary Sanders. DJ at Large filled The Warehouse with everyone’s favorite prom songs. Music was graciously sponsored by Loree and Owen Aronov. Fun “prom photos” were taken by Darren Freeman in front of a Mom Prom backdrop and were printed on site and taken home as a memento for the special night. Plans for next year’s Mom Prom are already being made with a few surprises in store!

To learn more about the Footprints Ministry, and to stay up to date on future events, visit www.footprintsministry.info.

Photos by: Big Dreamz Creative

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socially SEEN

BAL MASQUE 55 TH ANNUAL BALL

Photos by: Stephanie Parsons

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he Ladies of Bal Masque celebrated the 55th annual ball by transporting those in attendance to some of the most iconic night clubs in the world. Guests were treated to an adventure that had them “Out All Night with Bal Masque.� Guests entered the Garrett Coliseum by way of the Bal Masque private hangar. They were greeted

by Bal Masque Airlines flight attendants with bags checked and preflight drinks under twinkling lights in the VIP lounge. Shortly after arrival, guests were invited to board the private flight for nightclubbing around the world. The weather was clear and the venue presented a clear starry night with hand-painted backdrops representing each destination.

Landing first in Las Vegas, guests were entertained by members dressed in black, dancing to the modern, fast-paced sounds at the Marquee Day & Nightclub. Samba dancers dressed in purple and gold entertained next in Rio de Janeiro followed by the smooth moves of members dressed in Union Jack shift dresses and white knee boots at the Soundbar in London, England. Following the roar of jet engines, guests were transported to New York and then Nashville where dancers entertained to trendy tunes. The final flight landed guests at the now-famous Club 55, located in Montgomery, Alabama! Guests were welcomed by the 55th Queen of Bal Masque who wore an elegant gold-sequined gown with a boat neck and illusion sleeves. She was clearly the queen of the club! Following the first dance, the club rocked to the sounds of Fly By Radio until last call.

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when? what? where?

March 1 – Art Auction 2018 6-8 p.m. Montgomery Museum of Fine Arts.The MMFA’s 14th biennial Art Auction offers exciting updates to this beloved tradition.Art Auction 2018 will be one evening, a combination of past years’ silent auction and live auction events. The Art Acquisition Committee has gathered artwork from New York, Santa Fe and Charleston, and this year, they have selected a large number of works from prominent New Orleans galleries. Art Auction 2018 is sponsored by Merrill Lynch and Rheem Heart of Comfort. Tickets will be $75 for the evening. Purchase tickets now for this popular, exciting event online at mmfauction.com or call 334.240.4333.

YOU'RE INVITED TO OUR

March 2 – The Westerlies in Concert 7 p.m. The Capri Theatre. The Westerlies hail from NYC and are spending the week in Montgomery! They’ve got a week of exciting outreach planned for our local students with a public concert Friday night in Old Cloverdale. Come hear this brass ensemble weave jazz and folk into traditional chamber music. Tickets benefit ClefWorks outreach programs. Military and student discounts. Can’t make it? Donate a seat to a local student! Visit clefworks.org.

March 2, 9, 16, 23 & 30 – Friday Dinner Cruise 6:30 p.m. Harriott II. Enjoy dinner, live entertainment and a cash bar as you take a relaxing cruise down the river aboard the Harriott II.Ticket prices vary. For more information or to purchase tickets, call 334.625.2100 or visit funinmontgomery.com.

THURSDAY, APRIL 19TH 11AM-7PM JOIN US FOR COMPLIMENTARY FACIAL AND WELLNESS CONSULTS, LIVE DEMOS, SPECIALS AND GIVEAWAYS. RSVP AND RECEIVE A COMPLIMENTARY DERMAPLANE.

1 COMMERCE STREET, SUITE 610, MONTGOMERY 334-676-3700 72

RSVP

MAR /APR 2018

March 3 – First Saturday Community Project 9-11 a.m. EAT South Downtown Farm, 485 Molton St. Join E.A.T. South on the first Saturday of the month for our Community Project. Each month, we tackle a different seasonal project - from garden bed construction, to planting, to weeding. Learn a new skill, make friends, support your urban farm. Join us! Visit eatsouth.org.

March 3 – May 6 – The Miracle Worker Times Vary. Alabama Shakespeare Festival. This classic is based on the true story of Anne Sullivan and her student, blind and mute Helen Keller, who grew up in Tuscumbia, Alabama. Trapped in her own world, Helen is unable to communicate. Anne realizes there is a mind and spirit waiting to be rescued from the dark silence, and her success with Helen finally comes with the utterance of a

when? what? where? single, glorious word: “water.” Visit asf.net.

March 3-4 – The Little Mermaid Times Vary.Troy University’s Davis Theatre.The Alabama Dance Theatre, celebrating its 31st season, will present its annual spring concert featuring “The Little Mermaid and More!” Visit alabamadancetheatre.com.

March 3, 10, 17, 24 & 31 – Saturday Social on the

Harriott II

4:30 p.m. Harriott II. Enjoy live entertainment, a cash bar and concessions as you ride down the river. $25 per adult and $15 per child. Call 334.625.2100 or visit funinmontgomery.com.

March 3 – Montgomery Humane Society’s 3rd Annual Catini Party

6-8 p.m. Montgomery Humane Society, 1150 John Overton Dr. You’re invited to a “Catini” Party! Party food, drinks, silent auction and purrs from our resident cats and kittens. Tickets are $15 and all proceeds will benefit homeless cats/kittens. Pay at the door. Visit montgomeryhumane.com.

March 4 – MACOA’s 24th Annual Culinary Caper 11:30 a.m.Alabama Activity Center, 2012 Dexter Avenue.

Chefs from Montgomery’s finest restaurants will host the 24th Annual “Culinary Caper” to benefit MACOA and Meals on Wheels. Area chefs will prepare and serve their special dishes of the carefully planned menu to guests at a seated luncheon. A silent auction will feature an array of items from spa treatments, jewelry, gourmet dinners, art, clothing, trips, home decor, gift certificates and much more. Tickets $75.00 per person, $750 for table of eight, $1,200 sponsorship table. For more info, contact Chacolby Burns-Johnson at cjohnson@macoa. org, 334.263.0532 or visit macoa.org.

March 4 &17 – MMA First Sundays & Third Saturdays 1-2 p.m. Montgomery Museum of Fine Arts. Learn more about the works of art on view and latest exhibitions at the museum with docent-led tours, offered the first Sunday and third Saturday of each month. These tours are free and open to the public, no reservations required.Visit mmfa.org.

March 5 – Leadership Montgomery Meet & Greet 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Whitley Hall, 231 Montgomery Street. Come meet and greet with your Leadership Montgomery team, Cheryl Lange, our new president and Naomi Kemp, our new program manager! Eat cake, drink punch, look at photos, events, programs, initiatives and more from 1984 to now showing the impact Leadership Montgomery has had in our great city!

March 6, 13 & 20 – Short Course: American

Impressionism

Noon-1 p.m. Montgomery Museum of Fine Arts.

Elisabeth Palmer will engage the topic of American Impressionism in a three-week short course.The course will address the beginnings of Impressionism in France, MAR /APR 2018 RSVP 73 TheChapel_2018_ad001_1-4pg_RSVP.indd 1

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when? what? where? where American painter Mary Cassatt was working, and the evolution of the style in the U.S., where artists such as Childe Hassam and William Merritt Chase adopted the trend. American Impressionism will also examine the concepts that defined the movement, such as an interest in representing contemporary daily life.Visit mmfa.org.

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March 6 – Young Artists 3:45 p.m. Montgomery Museum of Fine Arts. Children, with their caregivers, will enjoy learning to use basic elements of art in our studio. Each class will feature a different project, honing fine motor and social skills. The various series will familiarize participants with a range of art materials and techniques. Class size is limited to 10 students per class.All supplies and materials are provided.

Classes are $8 members/$13 non-members per class, or $30 members/$50 non-members for the series of five classes. Suitable for children ages 3 to 5 with an adult caregiver.Visit mmfa.org.

March 7 & 21 – Artful Yoga Noon. Montgomery Museum of Fine Arts. Led by Nancy Beale. Does your yoga practice need a little artistic inspiration? Join us for this new program to stretch, reflect and relax. Each Artful Yoga session will draw inspiration from collections and exhibitions of the museum.The class is free and suitable for all levels, beginners are welcome.

Guests are encouraged to bring their yoga mats and wear comfortable clothing.Visit mmfa.org.

March 7 & 21 – After School Art I 3:45-4:45 p.m. Montgomery Museum of Fine Arts. This age-based series will include traditional mediums like painting, sculpting and drawing as well as less familiar techniques and media like textiles and mosaics. Class size is limited to 12 students. All supplies and materials are provided. Classes are $80 members/$130 non-members for all eight sessions. Suitable for children ages 6 to 9.

To register, contact Brandy Morrison at edsecy@mmfa. org or call 334.240.4365.Visit mmfa.org.

March 8 – 2018 Women’s Leadership Summit 9 a.m.-2 p.m. Wynlakes Country Club. Join the Junior League of Montgomery for the inaugural Women’s Leadership Summit. Spend the day learning from women at the top of their fields and leave with renewed inspiration for your own goals. The keynote speaker is Felicia Turrentine Wasson, a Fortune 500 executive. Visit JLMontgomery.org for more info.

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March 8,15,22 & 29 – EARTH’S HEART: Connecting

Cultures

2:30-3 p.m. Montgomery Museum of Fine Art. Visit ARTWORKS on Thursday afternoons to learn about the art of Egypt. Each month, participants will explore a different culture. ARTWORKS Educator Kelly Bazan will introduce young learners to the basic greetings, visual arts, music, clothing and traditions of the country in focus.

Connections will also be made to works in the museum’s galleries. This class is free and open to the public, no reservation required (limit 25 students).Visit mmfa.org.

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March 8 – Art Ed Central 4:30-6 p.m. Montgomery Museum of Fine Arts. Art educators are welcome to join us for these FREE monthly workshops and learn more about utilizing the museum as a classroom resource. After informative gallery talks with museum curators, participants enjoy related art lessons in the studio. Light refreshments are served, and certification hours are awarded! Art Ed Central is a regional division of the Alabama Art Education Association, represented by Sally Chambliss (LAMP). To register for workshops, call 334.240.4365.Visit mmfa.org.

March 8- Goya’s Ghosts 5:30-7:30 p.m. Montgomery Museum of Fine Arts. Goya’s Ghosts is a sweeping historical epic, told through the eyes of celebrated Spanish painter Francisco Goya (Stellan Skarsgård). Assistant Curator of Education Elisabeth Palmer will introduce the film and lead a brief discussion following. The museum will provide complimentary popcorn, and beverages will be available for purchase.

Visit mmfa.org.

May 18th and 19th

March 9-25 – Bear Country Times Vary. Alabama Shakespeare Festival. The Southern Writers’ Project world-premiere production of Bear Country returns to the ASF stage for a limited run to commemorate Alabama 200’s 2018 theme, “Honoring Our People.” Meet the legendary Paul “Bear” Bryant as he reminisces about the career that turned him into an icon and dispenses his particular brand of life coaching, which made him a champion to his players on and off the field.Visit asf.net.

March 9 – The Stars Come Out 8-10 p.m. Club 322. The Stars Come Out to support Medical Advocacy & Outreach. Join regional icons, the Divas of evening stage: Venus Shonte Davis, Rona Black Barrett, Lady Jackie, Lee Michaels, Vivian Crawford, and event co-host/MC, Harlow Caldwell “The Hitman” Bauer, for a night of music and enough shade to cover the sun. $10 per person, tickets sold at the door. The show starts at 9 p.m. Proceeds benefit the sexual health education, PrEP, and HIV prevention programs of MAO. Call 800.510.4704.

March 10 – Montgomery Half Marathon & 5k 7 a.m. The Alley Water Tower, downtown Montgomery.

The Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Alabama Montgomery Half Marathon & 5k presented by Hyundai Motor Manufacturing Alabama and Baptist Health races are back! To register, visit themontgomeryhalf.com.

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MAR /APR 2018

March 10 – 19th Annual Enlisted Heritage 5k 7:15 a.m. Riverwalk Stadium. The run is open to the public and all runners are welcome! The funds raised at this event will allow the Heritage Hall to continue providing support for enlisted education programs and the development of museum-quality displays and exhibits that chronicle the contributions of enlisted men and

when? what? where? women throughout aviation history. Visit mmstiming. com/race/2018-enlisted-heritage-5k/.

March 10-11 – Zoo Weekend 9 a.m.-6 p.m. Montgomery Zoo. Enjoy a festive environment with live entertainment, games, rides, bouncy houses, big slides, inflatables, pony and camel rides, and so much more. $15 per adult, $11 per child and toddlers get in free. Contact 334.240.4900 or montgomeryzoo.com.

March 10 – Free Children’s Art Workshop 10-11:30 a.m. & 1-2:30 p.m. Creative Arts Center. The Prattauga Art Guild will host a Free Children’s Art Workshop. Space is limited and reservations are required.

To register or for more information, contact the special events office at 334.595.0854.

March 10 – Dads and Daughters Saturday (D.A.D.S.) 11 a.m.-Noon. Juliette Hampton Morgan Memorial Library. Calling ALL fathers and daughters for storytime, fun and laughs, every 2nd Saturday. There will be singing, dancing and arts and crafts. Call 334.240.4999.

March 10 – ASF Theatre in Mind Noon. Alabama Shakespeare Festival, Festival Theatre.

Spend your Saturday gaining new insights into ASF productions through the acclaimed Theatre in Mind and Bard Talk lecture discussions! Designed around the plays presented each season, you can participate in free preshow discussions, author, cast, designer and director talks.

Hosted by Dr. Susan Willis, ASF’s resident dramaturg, these entertaining and thought-provoking lectures by noted theatre scholars complement a perfect Saturday afternoon at the theatre! Visit asf.net.

March 11 – Anne Goldthwaite as Printmaker 2 p.m. Montgomery Museum of Fine Arts. Join Curator Margaret Lynne Ausfeld and Assistant Curator of Education Elisabeth Palmer for a gallery-based discussion about the graphic work of native-Montgomerian painter and printmaker Anne Goldthwaite. The curators will be discussing Goldthwaite’s early training as a maker of fine art prints in the early twentieth century when women were just beginning to join the ranks of professional printmakers. Participants will take a closer look at impressions and subjects produced during her almost 50-year-long-career in Paris, Montgomery and New York City.Visit mmfa.org.

March 11 – Prattville Pops March Madness 3 p.m. Amphitheatre at Pratt Park. The Prattville Pops will present its annual March Madness Concert, free and open to the public. For more information, contact the special events office at 334.595.0854.

March 14 - Ekphrasis Noon-1 p.m. Montgomery Museum of Fine Arts.

Ekphrasis is a monthly book club for museum members devoted to the history of art. This session led by Margaret Lynne Ausfeld will cover Egyptomania: Our MAR /APR 2018 RSVP 77

when? what? where?

Three Thousand Year Obsession with the Land of the Pharoahs by Bob Brier.Visit mmfa.org.

March 15 - Food For Thought Lunchtime Series Noon. Alabama Departmet of Archives and History, Joseph M. Farley Alabama Power Auditorium. Food For Thought offers a wide range of unique topics spanning centuries of Alabama history. The public is invited to bring a brown bag lunch, complimentary beverages are provided. Admission is always free. March’s lecture is by Scotty Kirkland and Meredith McDonough on The Paper and the Preacher: The Southern Courier and Martin Luther King Jr.Visit archives.state.al.us.

March 15-17- Southeastern Livestock Exposition

Rodeo

Times Vary. Garrett Coliseum. Grab your cowboy boots and hat and head down to the rodeo. Enjoy barrel races, team roping, the Cowboy Cook-Off and so much more.

Ticket prices vary. Call 334.265.1867 or visit slerodeo. com.

March 17 – River Region Comic Con 10 a.m.-6 p.m. Cramton Bowl Multiplex. River Region Comic Con is a first-year multi-genre, veteran-owned convention in Montgomery. The focus will be on comics, gaming, e-sports, technology and film for the area. Rocket City Arcade will be hosting the arcade game room including a Donkey Kong high score tournament. Ticket prices vary. For more info, check out the Facebook event.

MON - SAT: 10 A.M. - 7 P.M. SUN: 1-5 P.M.

March 17 – ASF Theatre in Mind Noon. Alabama Shakespeare Festival, Octagon Stage.

Spend your Saturday gaining new insights into ASF productions through the acclaimed Theatre in Mind and Bard Talk lecture discussions! Designed around the plays presented each season, you can participate in free preshow discussions, author, cast, designer and director talks.

Hosted by Dr. Susan Willis, ASF’s resident dramaturg, these entertaining and thought-provoking lectures by noted theatre scholars complement a perfect Saturday afternoon at the theatre! Visit asf.net.

March 21 - Tales for Tots 10:30-11 a.m. & 11-11:30 a.m. Montgomery Museum of Fine Arts. This monthly program helps develop early learning and fine motor skills through storytelling and a simple craft. Tots and their caregivers will enjoy a fun interactive story and create a make-and-take art project. This program is free and open to the public, no reservation required. Suitable for children ages 2 to 5 with an adult caregiver.Visit mmfa.org.

March 23 – Disney Junior Dance Party On Tour 6 p.m. Montgomery Performing Arts Centre. Are you ready to DANCE? Disney Junior Dance Party On Tour is an all-new, interactive, live concert experience. Sing along to Disney Junior’s greatest hits with your favorite characters. Kids of all ages and their families are invited to get up and dance, play games and join the biggest

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when? what? where? dance party around! Visit mpaconline.org.

March 24 – Farm in the City – Get Planting!

9-11 a.m. EAT South Downtown Farm, 485 Molton St. March is here. The weather is warm. It’s time to plant!

We’ll cover different garden bed preparation techniques (from tilling to double-digging), how to amend your soil, the garden gold that is compost and how to get those transplants from the house to the ground. Visit eatsouth. org.

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March 25 – Family Art Affair & Jazz Jams 2-4 p.m. Montgomery Museum of Fine Arts. Enjoy an afternoon of entertainment for the entire family. Inspired by the work displayed in the Uncommon Territory exhibition, participants will create their own artwork in our studio while listening to jazz music playing throughout the museum.Visit mmfa.org.

March 27 – Max Capital City Classic 6:30 p.m. Riverwalk Stadium. This annual baseball game, hosted in Montgomery between the Auburn Tigers and Alabama Crimson Tide baseball teams, is always a crowdpleasing event for one of the biggest rivalries in college sports.Visit maxcapitalcityclassic.com.

March 29 - ARTtalk 6-8 p.m. Montgomery Museum of Fine Arts. From seasoned artists to those who simply enjoy looking at art, this bi-monthly program invites all aesthetes to engage in friendly art critique! At each meeting, participants may bring one work to share with their fellow artists during the commentary session. Join us for the critique, receive feedback on your art and be inspired by the art of others!

Visit mmfa.org.

March 30 - Moonlight Movies on The Green Sunset. The Shoppes at EastChase. Kick off spring with the family-friendly film SING! Bring the entire family {including pets} and a blanket or chair for this free family night out at The Shoppes. Movie will begin at sundown, so be sure to get there early to grab a spot! Vendors will be on site for food and beverages. Located on The Green, adjacent to Pies and Pints. Visit theshoppesateastchase. com.

March 31 – Borgen Project Information Session Noon–12:30 p.m. Dog Park at Alabama Shakespeare Festival. Join us for an information session promoting The Borgen Project, a nonprofit organization that is striving to end global poverty. Come out and join us to learn more about how you can be involved helping those in poverty.

March 31 – Here Come the Mummies 8 p.m. Montgomery Performing Arts Centre. Here Come the Mummies is an eight-piece, funk-rock band of 5,000-year-old Egyptian mummies with a one-track mind. Their “Terrifying Funk from Beyond the Grave” is sure to get you into them (and possibly vice versa). Visit mpaconline.org.

when? what? where?

April 1 & 21 – MMA First Sundays & Third Saturdays 1-2 p.m. Montgomery Museum of Fine Arts. Learn more about the works of art on view and latest exhibitions at the museum with docent-led tours offered the first Sunday and third Saturday of each month. These tours are free and open to the public, no reservations required.

Visit mmfa.org.

April 1, 8, 15, 22 & 29 – Sunday Blues Cruise 5:30 p.m. Harriott II. Enjoy a sunny Sunday afternoon aboard the Harriott II. Includes live entertainment, cash bar and concessions. $25 per adult and $15 per child.

Birthday packages available. Call 334.625.2100 or visit funinmontgomery.com.

April 3 & 17 – Young Artists 3:45 p.m. Montgomery Museum of Fine Arts. Children, with their caregivers, will enjoy learning to use basic elements of art in our studio. Each class will feature a different project, honing fine motor and social skills. The various series will familiarize participants with a range of art materials and techniques. Class size is limited to 10 students per class.All supplies and materials are provided.

Classes are $8 members/$13 non-members per class, or $30 members/$50 non-members for the series of five classes. Suitable for children ages 3 to 5 with an adult caregiver.Visit mmfa.org.

April 5 – Ai Weiwei: Never Sorry FILM 5:30 p.m. Montgomery Museum of Fine Art. From 2008 to 2010, Beijing-based journalist and filmmaker Alison Klayman documented internationally renowned Chinese artist and activist, Ai Weiwei’s artistic process in preparation for major museum exhibitions, his intimate exchanges with family members, and his increasingly public clashes with the Chinese government. Visit mmfa. org.

April 5 – Biscuits Opening Night 6:35 p.m. Riverwalk Stadium. The Biscuits kick off the 2018 season with a bang! Come usher in the new baseball season against the Biloxi Shuckers with a MAX Fireworks Show and a post-game launch of the Human Cannonball! It’s also Thirsty Thursday. Biscuits vs. Biloxi play April 5-9.Visit biscuitsbaseball.com.

April 6 – Over the Edge 1-4 p.m. 40 Four Building, 44 Market Plaza. Join Over The Edge for a unique and thrilling fundraiser for Hope Inspired Ministries. Individuals and businesses will raise money for Hope Inspired Ministries for the opportunity to rappel from the 40 Four Building in downtown Montgomery! For detailed instructions on fundraising or for additional information on the event, please contact Michael Coleman at mscolemanjr@gmail.com or Karen Boan at karenboan@gmail.com, or call Hope Inspired Ministries at 334.649.4330.

April 6,13, 20 & 27 – Friday Dinner Cruise 6:30 p.m. Harriott II. Enjoy dinner, live entertainment and a cash bar as you take a relaxing cruise down the MAR /APR 2018 RSVP 81

From the runways of Paris to the Streets of Montgomery

when? what? where? river aboard the Harriott II. Ticket prices vary. For more information or to purchase tickets, call 334.625.2100 or visit funinmontgomery.com.

April 7 – YMCA Strides for Kids 5k Dash 8:30 a.m. Emory Folmar YMCA Soccer Complex, 300 Brown Springs Road. Cruise through the one-mile fun run or challenge yourself with the 5k race. Cost is $25 for 5k, $10 for fun run. Call 334.269.4362 or visit ymcamontgomery.org.

April 7 – Autism Mud Bug Ball Noon-5 p.m. (VIP and Early Bug 11 a.m.) Dreamland/ Railyard Brewery.All you can eat crawfish boil with all the fixings. We will have live music provided by local bands who donate their talents and play to support the event.

And what would a crawfish boil be without something to cool you off like an ice-cold Allstate Miller/Coors/Abita beverage. Ticket prices vary.Visit autismmudbugball.org.

April 7, 14, 21 & 28 – Saturday Social on the Harriott II 4:30 p.m. Harriott II. Enjoy live entertainment, a cash bar and concessions as you ride down the river. $25 per adult and $15 per child. Call 334.625.2100 or visit funinmontgomery.com.

April 7 – Rodney Carrington 7 p.m. Montgomery Performing Arts Centre. Rodney Carrington is bringing his unique brand of stand-up comedy to Montgomery. The country singer/songwriter has recorded eight major-label comedy albums, which have sold more than two million copies.Visit mpaconline. org.

April 11-12 - The Art of Baking Puppet Show 9:30 & 10:45 a.m. Montgomery Musuem of Art.This public presentation of The Art of Baking Puppet Show, designed for children ages 3 to 6 years old, engages children as they visit a bakery run by colorful animals from different parts of the world. The characters demonstrate how it takes everyone working together to turn the bakery’s yummy treats into art using color, shape and line. Visit mmfa.org.

April 11 - Ekphrasis Noon-1 p.m. Montgomery Museum of Fine Art. Ekphrasis is a monthly book club for museum members devoted to the history of art. This session led by Kaci Norman will cover The Vanishing Velazquez: A 19th Century Bookseller’s Obsession with a Lost Masterpiece by Laura Cumming.Visit mmfa.org.

April 11, 18 & 25 – After School Art I 3:45-4:30 p.m. Montgomery Museum of Fine Arts. This age-based series will include traditional mediums like painting, sculpting and drawing as well as less familiar techniques and media like textiles and mosaics. Class size is limited to 12 students. All supplies and materials are provided. Classes are $80 members/$130 non-members for all eight sessions. Suitable for children ages 6 to 9. To register, call 334.240.4365.Visit mmfa.org.

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April 12, 19, & 26 - Afterschool Art II 4-5 p.m. Montgomery Museum of Fine Arts. Sign your child, ages 10 to 13, up for this fun and engaging class.

They will learn different techniques, both traditional and innovative, while using a variety of materials that will inspire their creativity. $16 class/$62 for the series. Visit mmfa.org.

April 12 - Terrarium Workshop 6-8 p.m. The Shoppes at EastChase. Join us and create your own terrarium at The Shoppes at EastChase. Bring your own glass vessel or choose one from our selection.

Tiny succulents and foliage plants will be available to choose from...along with an assortment of natural pods and crystals to personalize your creation. To purchase tickets, visit theshoppesateastchase.com.

Dr. Steven L. Mackey 1722 Pine St Suite 400 Montgomery, Al 334-263-1400

April 12 – Family Sunshine Center’s Ranch Roundup 6:30–9 p.m. Bartlett Ranch, 755 Old Carter Hill Rd. Join us for the 5th annual Family Sunshine Center’s Ranch Roundup benefit as we raise dollars to end domestic violence and sexual assault. Ranch Roundup is hosted by lead sponsors Serquest and the JK Lowder Family Foundation. This will be an evening of Southern fun including a steak dinner at the cantina, live music and a $10,000 drawdown. Event tickets are $125 and include a drawdown entry. Can’t attend but want to support Family Sunshine Center? DRAWDOWN ONLY tickets available for $50 each. For tickets call 334.206.2121.

April 14 – Autism Funky Fun Run 8-10 a.m. Faulkner University. Join the Autism Society of Alabama and let’s get funky as we bring autism awareness to the community! The Funky Fun Run, previously called the Walk for Autism, is the single-most powerful fundraising event in April that unifies thousands of participants statewide in support of the mission and projects of the Autism Society.We encourage participants to dress FUNKY.Think retro wear - bright colors, tie dye and bell bottoms! Cost includes t-shirt and is $30 for the walk, $35 for 5k.Visit funkyfunrun.com.

April 14 - Native American Family Day 1-4 p.m. Montgomery Museum of Fine Arts. Join us for the fourth Native American Family Day. During this FREE event, the Poarch Band of Creek Indians will share many different aspects of their heritage in fun interactive ways for all ages! There will be dance performances, tribal drumming and artisans demonstrating their skills.We will have hands-on basket weaving, medallion making and clay molding, all in the Poarch Creek tradition. The museum is grateful to the Poarch Band of Creek Indians for its support of Native American Family Day.Visit mmfa.org.

April 15 – Food Truck Takeover Noon-3 p.m. Hampstead. Join us for the spring Food Truck Takeover! Come enjoy food and drinks from a variety of rotating food trucks, including Wharf Casual Seafood, NYC Gyro, On A Roll, El Campesino’s Taqueria, Fire Meats Wood, Smokin’ Wells BBQ, Cheesecake Empori-

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when? what? where? yum, That’s My Dog, Frios Pops, Bruster’s Ice Cream & Alabama Sweet Tea Company. There will be live music.

Great for all ages. Parking located on Long Acre, Mercer Street and in two large Hampstead parking lots. For more info, call 334.356.4598.

April 16-20 – Biscuits vs. Tennessee 6:35 p.m. Riverwalk Stadium. Take me out to the ballgame and watch the Montgomery Biscuits take on the Tennessee Smokies. Promotions each night, including Thirsty Thursday and MAX Fireworks show on Friday.

Visit biscuitsbaseball.com.

The Coast is Here!

April 17-18 – Earth Day Safari 9 a.m.-2 p.m. Montgomery Zoo. Participate in an endangered species scavenger hunt, play Earth Day trivia games, see live animal presentations and enjoy specialized keeper talks at various animal exhibits.

Advanced reservations required. Ticket prices vary.

Contact 334.240.4900 or visit montgomeryzoo.com.

April 17 – Shen Yung 7:30 p.m. Montgomery Performing Arts Centre. Join us for the revival of the 5,000-year cultural history of the Chinese civilization. Dances, music and stories from ancient to modern history, accompanied by a unique orchestra blending Eastern and Western musical instruments all set to a 3D-video backdrop. Visit mpaconline.org.

April 18 – Charlie Robison with Special Guest

Davis Nix

7:30 p.m. Montgomery Performing Arts Centre. Enjoy the tunes of Charlie Robison, a Texas country music singer/songwriter. Visit mpaconline.org.

April 19 – Lawson Aesthetics & Medspa One Year

Anniversary

11 a.m.-7 p.m. 1 Commerce St. Suite 610. You’re invited to our 1-Year Anniversary Party! Join us for complimentary facial and wellness consults, live demos, specials and giveaways. RSVP and receive a complimentary Dermaplane. For more info, call 334.676.3700.

April 19 - Food For Thought Lunchtime Series Noon. Alabama Departmet of Archives and History, Joseph M. Farley Alabama Power Auditorium. Food For Thought offers a wide range of unique topics spanning centuries of Alabama history. The public is invited to bring a brown bag lunch, complimentary beverages are provided. Admission is always free. April’s lecture is by Susan Abram on Forging a Cherokee-American Alliance in the Creek War.Visit archives.state.al.us.

April 19 – College Night 6 p.m. Montgomery Museum of Fine Arts. Find inspiration in the works of the Gulf Coast artists on view in Natural Wonders: The Art of Jacqueline Bishop and Douglas Bourgeois, and come try your hand in our

Explore the taste of the coast Enjoy one of our fresh, fast seafood appetizer options with your friends...or keep it all to yourself! And if you’re looking for a taste of the coast for your next event, give us a call.

From big events to groups ordering lunch in, it would be our pleasure to serve you.

WharfCasualSeafood.com Montgomery 334-676-3200 Prattville 334-285-7046

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when? what? where? studio by creating your own artwork out of recycled materials.Visit mmfa.org.

April 20-May 5 – Twelfth Night Times Vary. Alabama Shakespeare Festival. The lovestruck Duke Orsino moons over Lady Olivia, who is in turn struck with love for a handsome youth. Little does she know, her “youth” is actually a disguised Lady Viola, who is in love with Orsino. Mistaken identities abound in this rambunctious romp, which is one of Shakespeare’s most popular comedies.Visit asf.net.

April 21 - Joy to Life’s Walk of Life 8:30-11 a.m. 101 Tallapoosa St.The Joy to Life Foundation is excited to celebrate their 17th year of the Joy to Life Walk of Life! Run or walk to raise awareness and support for the fight against breast cancer. Once you cross the finish line, it’s time to make your way through the tunnel to Montgomery’s Riverfront Park. Don’t forget your wristband! Inside the park, you’ll enjoy food, drinks, the Mighty Kids Dash, vendors, artists, music and lots more, including the opportunity to meet many of our special sponsors at their sponsor tents.Visit joytolifefoundation. org.

April 21 – Alabama Book Festival 9a.m.-5 p.m. Old Alabama Town. The annual Alabama Book Festival boasts approximately 50 authors and more than 40 vendors and exhibitors. This free, public event is the state’s premier book festival, with some 5,000 people from around the state and the Southeast converging in the capital to meet with and hear from their favorite authors and scholars. A children’s activity area is sure to make this a day of fun for the entire family. The 2018 festival will continue the tradition of promoting reading and literacy to Alabamians of all ages and backgrounds. Call 334.240.4500 or visit alabamabookfestival.org.

April 21 - Fido Fest 11 a.m.-2 p.m. Near Gap at The Shoppes at EastChase.

Raise your furry little paws, Fido Fest is back! This year, we’re going to rock your paws off with live music, local food trucks, vendors and pup-friendly activities. The best part? It’s free! For more info and a list of vendors, visit theshoppesateastchase.com.

April 21 – ASF Theatre in Mind Noon. Alabama Shakespeare Festival, Festival Theatre.

Spend your Saturday gaining new insights into ASF productions through the acclaimed Theatre in Mind and Bard Talk lecture discussions! Designed around the plays presented each season, you can participate in free preshow discussions, author, cast, designer and director talks.

Hosted by Dr. Susan Willis, ASF’s resident dramaturg, these entertaining and thought-provoking lectures by noted theatre scholars complement a perfect Saturday afternoon at the theatre! Visit asf.net.

April 21 - Saint James Church 9th Annual Silent

Auction

2960 Carter Hill Road Montgomery, AL 36106 334 240 2599 Monday - Friday: 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.

Saturday: 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Carrying the finest selection of formal dresses for PROM 2018, mother-of-the-bride or groom, balls and cocktail parties. We also offer the latest in casual outfits, shoes, accessories and handbags. Sizes 0 to 26.

4-6 p.m. Saint James Church, 9045 Vaughn Rd. This NO MAR /APR 2018 RSVP 87

when? what? where?

COST silent auction will benefit youth and children’s missions. Featured items include antique furniture from Montgomery Interior Antiques, Pickwick Antiques, original artwork, jewelry, salon and boutique certificates, gift cards from local businesses, and vacation home rentals. Preview items online at sjlifeauction.com.

OUR DINNER TABLE or yours?

Central, a locally owned restaurant, provides a sophisticated yet relaxed dining experience with fresh, regionally sourced ingredients aimed to provide a unique twist to comforting classics.

We also have three unique private event spaces boasting indoor and outdoor functionality. Whether it’s a party for 10 or 300, we can meet and exceed your private event needs.

April 21 – Barra Hookah’s Sixth Year Anniversary 7 p.m. Barra Hookah, 1408 Madison Ave. Come celebrate Barra Hookah’s sixth year anniversary! This party features Rayrex as a special guest DJ from Tallahassee, Florida! Providing strong local support will be longtime resident Barra DJs Treylude, Alien Ear Drum and Clemanzo. Also, in his debut performance, DJ Ray Justice.

19 to enter, 21 to drink. ID’s will be checked. Visit Facebook event for more info.

April 21 – 3 Faces of the King 7:30 p.m. Montgomery Performing Arts Centre. There has never been an American Legend like Elvis Presley.

Experience what it would be like to have The King return to the concert stage to relive all of his greatest moments.

‘3 Faces of the King’ is the national touring show that combines the three most exciting periods of Elvis’ iconic career to tell the musical life and story in song of this astounding American legend.Visit mpaconline.org.

April 26 – National Memorial for Peace and Justice

and Legacy Museum Grand Opening

All Day.The Legacy Musuem, 115 Coosa St.The National Memorial for Peace and Justice will acknowledge an era of racial terror in the United States when thousands of African Americans were lynched and publicly tortured, sometimes in the presence of thousands of people.

The April 26 opening will be accompanied by several days of educational panels and presentations from leading national figures, performances and concerts from acclaimed recording artists, and a large opening ceremony. Timed entry tickets are required for the museum. Memorial tickets: $8, museum tickets: $8, combination tickets: $10. Visit museumandmemorial.eji. org.

April 26-30 – Biscuits vs. Mobile Times Vary. Riverwalk Stadium. Take me out to the ballgame and watch the Montgomery Biscuits take on the Mobile BayBears. Promotions each night, including Thirsty Thursday and MAX Fireworks show on Friday.

Visit biscuitsbaseball.com.

Central Restaurant 129 Coosa St. | Montgomery, AL 36104 www.central129coosa.com @central129coosa | #dineatcentral 88

RSVP

MAR /APR 2018

April 26 – May 6 – Fences Times Vary. Cloverdale Playhouse. A former star of the Negro baseball leagues who was excluded as a black man from the major leagues during his prime, he now works as a garbage man in 1957 Pittsburgh. Troy’s bitterness takes its toll on his relationships with his wife and his son as he struggles to find his place in a frightening world. Fences explores the issues of racial segregation, socially and economically, as well as the heart of a family: fathers and sons, husbands and wives, dreams deferred, and hopes for the future. Ticket prices vary.Visit cloverdaleplayhouse.org.

TEENS CRAVE FREEDOM. PARENTS CRAVE FREE. Bank Freely with Squad Student Banking.

It comes with no monthly fee, a free app, free low balance alerts, free online banking and more. Partner with Trustmark to begin teaching your kids the ins and outs of handling money.

SQUADBANKING.COM |

MEMBER FDIC

Trustmark - RSVP 7.5 x 4.9 HP4C

MAR /APR 2018 RSVP 89

Wrap up your shopping at Tucker Pecan.

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Visit us Downtown-350 N. McDonough St. Mon–Fri 8am-4pm

334.262.4470

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some fresh pecans and pecan candies.

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Get On-Trend Gifts and Accessories for Spring ‘18

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RSVP MAR /APR 2018

when? what? where?

April 26 – Barrel of Blues 6-8 p.m. 333 Mildred St., Cottage Hill Historic District.

Barrel of Blues is the new signature fundraising event for Child Protect, Children’s Advocacy Center and is sure to be the party of the spring!! Enjoy a casual, entertaining evening with delicious food and beverages provided by ServisFirst Bank, a bourbon tasting, silent auction and tunes by blues artist Roger “Hurricane” Wilson at the home of Korie and Christian Lowry in beautiful, historic Cottage Hill. Tickets are $75 per person and may be purchased via EventBrite.

Visit childprotect.org.

NATIVE AMERICAN FAMILY DAY Saturday, April 14, 2018, 1 to 4 p.m.

April 28 – Dino Dig Education Program 10 a.m.-Noon. Montgomery Zoo. Go on an archaeological dig and discover bones from the past. Make new discoveries and new friends. Geared for boys and girls aged 4-10 years old. Advanced reservations are required. $25 per child. Call 334.240.4900 or visit montgomeryzoo.com.

April 28 – 3rd Annual Wings Festival and YMCA Open

House

11:30 a.m. East Family YMCA. The East Family YMCA Wings Festival and Open House is a chance to come together and celebrate our great community while helping the YMCA raise funds to help those in our community afford programs and services in our YMCA who wouldn’t otherwise have the chance to participate. Think your team has what it takes to be voted number one in our wings competition? Register to compete in what is sure to be a fantastic event for our YMCA. Enjoy great chicken wings from our local competitors, refreshments and a day of family fun with activities for children including bouncy houses and splashing in one of our three pools. Visit ymcamontgomery.org.

The Montgomery Museum of Fine Arts celebrates Native American Family Day! During this fun, free event, the Poarch Band of Creek Indians will share many different aspects of their heritage in interactive ways for all ages. There will be dance performances, tribal drumming, and artisans demonstrating their skills. Try your hand at basket weaving, medallion making, and creating in clay, all in the Poarch Creek tradition.

FLIMP FESTIVAL 2018 Saturday, May 5, 10 A.M. to 2 P.M.

April 28 – Veterans of Comedy 8 p.m. Montgomery Performing Arts Centre. Get your tickets now for the Veterans of Comedy Show featuring Nephew Tommy, Bruce Bruce and Comedian JJ. Visit mpaconline.org.

April 28-29 – TroyFest Art & Craft Festival 9 a.m.-5 p.m. (Sat.), 10 a.m.-4 p.m. (Sun.). On the square in downtown Troy. TroyFest, held in honor of Jean Lake, is the premier fine art and craft festival for the Central Alabama region. This weekend-long show draws upwards of 10,000 people to downtown Troy to celebrate the arts. A wonderful selection of art, food, entertainment and activities will be offered for people of all ages. Free admission.Visit troyfestarts.com.

April 30 – Montgomery Symphony Orchestra’s

Subscription Final Concert

7:30 p.m. Troy University’s Davis Theatre. Experience an inspiring performance by the featured soloist and winner of the 2018 Blount-Slawson Competition as the MSO closes the 2017-2018 Season. Ticket prices vary. Visit montgomerysymphony.org.

Sponsored by:

The family-friendly festival will kick off Saturday morning with the Do-Dah Pet Parade! Pets must be costumed to participate and prizes will be awarded. For more information on the event and to pre-register your pet, visit

www.mmfa.org

MAR /APR 2018 RSVP 91

resource directory City Grill, p. 93

Junior League, p. 14

Alabama Shakespeare Festival, p. 77

334.244.0960

jlmontgomery.org

334.271.5353 asf.net

Club Pilates, p. 27

Kim Box, p. 10 334.491.0409 kimboxphotography.com

334.277.5785

334.603.8055 clubpilates.com/ eastmontgomery

AlleyBAR, p. 32

Cohens, p. 11

334.277.4027

334.387-3333

334.277.8890 thinkcohens.com

Lawson Aesthetics, p.

Alfa - Billy Bradford, p. 78

Alley Station, p. 80 334.277.1077 alleystation.com

Arbors on Taylor, p. 73 334.386.2655 thearborsontaylor.com

A.W. Watkins, p. 86 334.538-3961 revdrawwatkins.org

Bama Budweiser, p. 2 334.263.1681 anheuser-busch.com

Barra Hookah, p. 63

Doug’s 2, p. 67 334.396.7120 www.dougs2.com

Dreamland BBQ, p. 41 334.273.7427 dreamlandbbq.com

Dr. Steven Mackey, p. 84 334.263.1400 drstevenmackey.com Embellish, p. 29 334.649.2022 theembellish.com

334.557.1757

Hampstead, p. 4

Baptist Hospital, p. 15

334.270.6730 hampsteadliving.com

Baptistdelivers.com

Candle Cabin, p. 38 334.244.2201

Capital City Club, p. 9 334.834.8920 capitalmontgomery.com Central, p. 88 334.517.1155 central129coosa.com

Chantilly Boutique, p. 87 334.240.2599

Hello Baby, p. 66 hellobabyphoto.com Inline Lighting, p. 93 334.279.9050 inlinelighting.com

Jack Ingram, p. 37 334.274.4900 www.jackingrammercedes.com

Jamison Alexander, p. 86 334.354.4028

Charles Anthony’s at the Pub, p. 72

JF Designs, p. 84 334.450.8867 JRFRICKS@gmail.com

334.281.3911 charlesanthonysatthepub.com

Joseph Salon, p. 63 334.260.9602

92

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Kynard Korner, p. 29

72 334.430.8685

Marquirettes, p. 3 334.612.7099 marquirettes.com Martine Sitbon, p. 82 334.356-3740 blackmartinesitbon.com Montgomery Biscuits Baseball, p. 45 biscuitsbaseball.com

Montgomery Museum of Fine Arts, p. 91 334.240.4333 mmfa.org

Montgomery Regional Airport, p. 74 334.281.5040 flymgm.com

Montgomery Zoo, p. 34

Orangetheory Fitness, p. 8 334.409.2007 montgomery. orangetheoryfitness.com

Partners Realty, p. 22-23 277-1077 partnersrealty.info Plastic Surgery Associates, p. 42 334.284.2800 psaom.com

Pure Barre, p. 82 334.834.7790 purebarre.com/almontgomery 334.356.5154 purebarre.com/ALeastmontgomery

Riverfront Facilities, p. 76 334.625.4400 funinmontgomery.com

River Region TV, p. 78 riverregion.tv

Rockin’ Jump, p. 81 334.239.2587 montgomery.rockinjump.com Shoppes at EastChase, p. 6,21

334.240.4900 montgomeryzoo.com

334.279.6046 theshoppesateastchase.com

Moore Commercial Realty, p. 34

SOL Restaurante Mexicano & Taqueria, p. 38

334.262.1958 moorecompanyrealty.com

New Park Living, p. 95 334.215.9215 newparkliving.com

Newk’s Eatery, p. 75 334.290.4955 newks.com

334.593.8250

Spa at Montgomery, p. 31 334.481-5210 spaatmontgomery.com

State Farm Breck Honea, p. 75 334.272.8423 breckhonea.com

State Farm – Cedric Bradford, p. 79 334.262.5100 cedric@cedricbradford.com

Taste & Tour, p. 5 hampsteadtour.eventbrite.com The Chapel at The Waters, p. 73 205.296.9757 TheChapelatTheWaters.com The Cigar Shoppe, p. 78 334.239.7923

The Furry Kid, p. 89 334.514.0566 The Tipping Point, p. 29 334.260.9110 tippingpointhampstead.com

Troyfest, p. 90 troyfest.com

Trustmark, p. 89 trustmark.com

Tucker Pecan, p. 90 262.4470 tuckerpecan.com

Vintage Cafe, p. 44 334.356.1944 vintagecafemgm.com Vintage Year, p. 44 334.819.7215 vymgm.com

Ware Jewelers, p. 96 334.386.9273 warejewelers.com Welle Studio, p. 83 334.239.8884 wearitwelle.com

Wharf Casual Seafood, p. 85 334.676.3200 WharfCasualSeafood.com Wind Creek Casino, p. 94 334.946.3360 windcreekmontgomery.com MAR /APR 2018 RSVP 93

SHHHHH!

H

idden away at Wind Creek Montgomery is a special place. It’s called Itta Bena, an exquisite dining experience with a taste of Beale Street on the side. From the 10 oz. bone-in pork chop to the 8 oz. filet, every dish at Itta Bena is gourmet southern cuisine. So come on up to the 3rd floor, discover our modern day speakeasy, and enjoy a FREE appetizer on us. But remember, it’s our little secret!

Present this coupon to your server for a:

FREE APPETIZER with an entrée purchase.

Limit one per person per table. Offer expires 4/30/18. May not be used in conjunction with any other offers.

1801 Eddie L. Tullis Rd., Montgomery, AL | WindCreekMontgomery.com | ©2018 Wind Creek Hospitality

BASED ON THE

HAPPINESS,

I’D SAY WE’RE

HOME. New Homes Starting in the Mid $200s 334.215.9215 | newparkliving.com

Between Ray Thorington Road and Taylor Road 1361 BARRET PARK WAY

HOME TO EAST MONTGOMERY

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