We make it all about YOU www.yourASEcu.com
Jack Ingram Motors, Inc. JackBlvd. Ingram Motors, Inc. 217 Eastern Montgomery www.JackIngramMercedes.com 217 Eastern Blvd. Montgomery 334-274-4900
www.JackIngramMercedes.com 334-274-4900
- D I S C O V E R -
STORIES T H AT
ACTUALLY
HAVE E THA
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CHARACTERS CONNECT @ THE SHOPPES
DILLARD'S + DSW SHOES + WHITE HOUSE BLACK MARKET KINNUCAN'S + LOFT + FRANCESCA'S + GAP + PIES & PINTS + 60 MORE
16 reply YES Styles and trends to consider
16
Summer Sizzle: Taking it to the Streets
30 don’t ask, doc tells
30
Medical realities revealed
Does Size Matter?
32 Feature Story
22
Mobile Cuisine
36 Special Feature Crusing the Coosa
41 Special Feature Henry Pugh Gets His Day
44 table talk
32
36
Street food with attitude
50 the LIST A Who’s Who of Young Leaders
60 socially SEEN 76 take FIVE
Sensational Scents
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78 Behind the Scenes 80 when? what? where? 96 resource DIRECTORY
ON THE COVER Mobile Cuisine Photo by Stephen Poff
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River Region
MEDICAL · COSMETIC · LASER
DERMATOLOGY & LASER
Dr. Porcia Love | Amanda Brooke, CRNP
Lo PROVIDING THE HIGHEST QUALITY CARE TO OUR PATIENTS IN A COMPASSIONATE AND PERSONALIZED MANNER.
SUMMER
SPECIALS available!
BOTOX · CHEMICAL PEELS · FILLERS · MICRONEEDLING · SPIDER VEIN TREATMENTS · FACIAL REJUVENATION LASER HAIR REMOVAL · SKIN TIGHTENING · SKIN CARE PRODUCTS · FACIALS · WAXING/TINTING
BOTOX
L River Region Dermatology & Laser 2060 Berryhill Road · Montgomery, AL 36117 · (334) 676-3366 · RRDermatologyLaser.com
River Regio
River Region
MEDICAL · COSMETIC · LASER
DERMATOLOGY & LASER
MEET DR. PORCIA LOVE Board Certified Dermatologist
Dr. Porcia Bradford Love is the founder of River Region Dermatology and Laser. She is also a Clinical Assistant Professor at the University of Alabama School of Medicine. A native of Montgomery, Dr. Love graduated Salutatorian from the LAMP Program at Sidney Lanier High School and magna cum laude from the University of Alabama, with a degree in Biology. She received her medical degree from Duke University School of Medicine, completed an Internship in General Surgery at Vanderbilt Medical Center, and her Dermatology residency at Duke University Hospital, where she held the honor of serving as Chief Resident. Dr. Love also completed a clinical research fellowship at the National Institutes of Health, where her research focused on skin cancer in young women and minority populations. She received the National Medical Fellowships David Rogers Memorial Prize and the National Cancer Institute Fellowship Achievement Award for her research.
ove the skin you’re in.
Dr. Love is a Fellow of the American Academy of Dermatology, the American Society of Dermatologic Surgery, the Skin of Color Society, and the Women’s Dermatologic Society.
PROVIDING THE HIGHEST QUALITY CARE TO OUR PATIENTS IN A COMPASSIONATE AND PERSONALIZED MANNER.
MONTHLY
SPECIALS!
X · CHEMICAL PEELS · FILLERS · MICRONEEDLING · SPIDER VEIN TREATMENTS · FACIAL REJUVENATION
LASER HAIR REMOVAL · SKIN TIGHTENING · SKIN CARE PRODUCTS · FACIALS · WAXING/TINTING
on Dermatology & Laser 2060 Berryhill Road · Montgomery, AL 36117 · (334) 676-3366 · RRDermatologyLaser.com
from the GIRLS The River Region Guide for All Things Social vol. 10, Iss.4
After three back-to-back issues, we are closing on the busiest time of the year for us and are very much looking forward to some down time before we welcome two new interns and crank up in full gear again. This issue might be one of my favorites because it is filled with so many things I love. Food trucks, fashion, amazing events, kayaking on the Coosa and Biscuits Baseball. While food trucks have been around for years, they haven’t been as prevalent in Montgomery but that is all about to change. Get excited with us as you read all about it on page 32. We absolutely adore the people and vision behind these food trucks. The Coosa River is the one of the most popular outdoor activities in our area, and our readers sent in some of their favorite pictures showing their fond memories. Follow us on Facebook for some group trips we will be planning this spring and summer. “The LIST” recognizes another fantastic group of individuals doing cool things in our community and leading the forces! If you know someone doing great things worthy of recognition, please nominate them through our online nomination form. Henry Pugh, Jr. is a legend to many of us and we are thrilled that the City recognized him and declared his birthday, April 19, Henry Pugh Day! There are several events taking place every week and we have recapped many of them in our Socially Seen section as well as provided you a calendar with all the upcoming events for May and June. Thank you for allowing us to be your resource for all things social! Happy summer!
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Summer
Photos by Matty Drollette
Sizzle
TA K I N G I T TO T H E S T R E E TS
From outdoor concerts to farmers markets and sporting events, the summer season provides ample opportunity to strut your style in the streets. Summer 2017 is full of upbeat yet casual pieces that bring the fun! It’s all about showing off the shoulders and legs and we’re seeing no shortage of ruffles, floral and stripes. Don’t let the high temps keep you from slaying your style. Here, we feature some of our favorite outfits from local stores.
Left: Easy and breezy, this gauzy, bell-sleeve top by Moon River provides the perfect contrast to these distressed Kut from the Cloth jean shorts. The fuchsia earrings are a fun pop of color. (Welle Studio) Middle: Chambray, stripes, a frayed hem and a cold shoulder, this Vintage Havanna dress is perfection for the summer months. (ElizabethGrace Fashions) Right: These Gianni Bini cropped jeans are complemented by a basic free people top, a look that is completed with this 1. STATE bomber jacket. (Dillard's)
Elizabeth Barrett STYLING + CONSULTING
Left: This Gianni Bini dress features stripes, a cold shoulder and a fun ruffle. What more could you want? (Dillard's) Middle: Here comes the sun in this lace one-shoulder top by Blu Pepper and distressed jeans by Mother. The green statement earrings add an extra flair of whimsy. (Welle Studio) Right: How perfectly paired are the bell sleeves on this Moon River tie-dye, lace-front top with these white flare jeans by Tractr? We love this fresh look. (ElizabethGrace Fashions)
Left: This adorable, one-shoulder, crop top by Free People is casual cool and perfectly paired with these white frayed Joe's Jeans shorts. (Dillard's) Middle: These cropped, flare-hem jeans by Angry Rabbitt are so on trend right now, and they go great with this white-hot, layered, cold-shoulder top by Moon River. (ElizabethGrace Fashions) Right: You're sure to stand out in this adorable, camo mini skirt by Sanctuary, and this Lilla P tee shirt will be a favorite in no time. (Welle Studio)
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Left: A boho beauty, this knot top by Mustard Seed, layered with a suede patchwork vest by Molly Braken and Vintage Havanna distressed denim shorts channel the 70s in all the right ways. (ElizabethGrace Fashions) Middle: Fun and flirty, this floral print swing dress by Mary and Mabel is as comfy as it is cute. (Welle Studio) Right: This Sanctuary off-the-shoulder top paired with white Joe's Jeans is perfect for a day date or a night out. (Dillard's)
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Call us at 334.270.6730 for home and community information or email info@hampsteadliving.com
Town building, design, and construction are an evolving process. The Hampstead master plan, features, floor plans, and pricing may change without notice due to a variety of considerations. Any illustrations are artist’s depictions only and may differ from completed improvements. This is not an offer to sell real estate property. Information is correct but not warranted. Void where prohibited by law. Equal Housing Opportunity. © 2017.
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The Pike Road New Home Community
Size
Does m a tt e r ?
By Dr. Brian Richardson
Y
ou have probably heard the saying, “it’s not the size of the ship, but the motion in the ocean that matters.” The guy with the biggest mouth may shout out that big ships make bigger waves. I think Freud would have an explanation for that type of response, and it deals with overcompensation. There is no doubt an infatuation regarding the size of a man’s private part. I have men ask me on a regular basis, “Doc, can you make it bigger?” My typical response is “No, but I can get you some new eyeglasses to make it look bigger.” The fascination about size often starts as a young boy and continues into adulthood. Women often wonder, “What is the big deal?” The issue of size has probably never been catapulted into the public thought process as much as when
Senator Marco Rubio made a comment about the size of Donald Trumps hands. Within a matter of moments, Trump was proclaiming his hand size was huge, and his other parts matched the length of his digits. The world laughed at this childish exchange between political opponents, and no one needed to explain the implication Rubio was making about Trump. Shortly thereafter, Trump labeled Rubio as “Little Marco.” This type of banter occurs far too often and can have real psychiatric consequences on men. A common misnomer is that hand size, foot size, height or any other physical feature is predictive of the size of a man’s privates. There is little truth or correlation to that common assumption. So, there is no need to buy that extra shoe size as a
don’t ask, doc tells
demonstration of your manhood. There is a reality that obesity or weight gain may cause the size of the penis to appear to shrink. In fact, for every 25 lbs. a man is over his ideal body weight, he may “lose” about 1/4 of an inch in his size. Please don’t take this idea to the extreme and start starving yourself! The penis actually has not changed in size, instead the fat around the pelvis has concealed the external appearance and length of the penis. A study was performed in order to put an end to this common question of a “normal or average” size of a penis. Over 15,000 privates were assessed and 5.2 inches is the average length based on scientific measurements. I bet you would not be surprised if I told you that when men self report their size, it is much bigger. Men tend to stretch things, including the truth. There is a medical condition called micro penis, and it is defined generally as an erect penis that is less than 2 and 3/4 inches. It is typically identified at birth and treatment is available. However, no matter what the kids in the locker room said about you, it actually only affects about 0.6% of the population.
now lost their medical license for fraudulent surgical procedures. Penile stretching devices are available and have been shown to be effective, although none are FDA approved in the US. When I explain that the device needs to be worn for at least four hours per day and for at least six months, most men change their minds about the importance of the matter. Size does not equal satisfaction, and studies have demonstrated that over 85% of women have stated that size is not important to them. The female genitalia has over 15,000 nerve endings whereas the penis has about 4,000. Do the math and you will see that you may not need as much as you think you did to accomplish what you want. In fact, some women have avoided intercourse because a man is—- pause—- “too big.” The male readers will need to reread that sentence and try to comprehend that fact. I would suggest the infatuation with size is actually a detriment to overall sexual health and relationships. Men need to stop worrying, stop bragging and start focusing on loving their partner.
The penis has two important roles biologically, including urinating to expel toxins from the body and ejaculation to transfer sperm for reproduction. Of course, it also is important in providing pleasure during sexual activity and creates a bond during and after intercourse. However, culture and society have implanted an idea that the penis plays a much larger role including manhood, self-worth, self-esteem and dominance. The reality is that beyond the biological purposes intended for the penis, other perceived purposes are created by culture and society. Men have undergone great lengths in order to gain size. Some cultures promote hanging weights on their genitals to increase the size. In Brazil, some men believe a snake bite on their private is the best method of increasing size. There have been surgeries performed for enhancement, however most of those doctors have
Dr. Brian Richardson is a urologist and chief of robotics and minimally invasive surgery at Jackson Hospital and Clinic.
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INfeature motion
By: Angela Hardgrave Photos by: Stephen Poff
Photo by Stephen Poff
MONTGOMERY’S The food truck industry has exploded in major cities across the country, and Montgomery is no exception. The City of Montgomery is very supportive of the food truck movement, and those who live and work in the area are excited to have more dining options available here. Some of the trucks currently operating in Montgomery are Southern Smoke Shack, On a Roll, NYC Gyro and Fire Meats Wood, among others. There are even plans in the works by Lomar Benson of Fire Meats Wood to create an app that allows people to see where each food truck is every day. Steve Jones, director of general services for the mayor’s office, graciously agreed to answer questions about the food truck movement. How did the food truck movement begin in Montgomery? SJ: Through studies within our development and planning organizations, we saw that cities of our size and demographic around the Southeast were having success with food trucks. We put together an ad hoc group of both City of Montgomery employees and local business owners and younger, millennial types in the area and took a look at the feasibility of
ON THE MOVE! bringing a food truck ordinance to Montgomery. The community was very receptive to the idea and we got the ball rolling. What food trucks are currently operating in Montgomery? SJ: I don’t know the exact number of food trucks that are operating in Montgomery currently, but I would say the number is north of 20. There are food trucks all over Montgomery on private property. They tend to migrate toward areas where there are large amounts of people employed that don’t have easy access to brick and mortar restaurants. We have only had about five to purchase the food vendor’s license to operate on city right of ways. We hope that number increases as the demand grows. How has the city supported the food truck movement here? SJ: Let me be clear about what we as the City of Montgomery did with our food truck ordinance. We have always allowed mobile food vendors in Montgomery to operate on private property. If you have the permission of the owner of a piece of property, have met all of the business license
By Angela Hardgrave MAY / JUNE 2017 RSVP 33
INfeature motion
requirements from the City of Montgomery, and have met all the set regulations from the Health Department, you have been able to operate a food truck. What we put into an ordinance for the first time was the ability for a mobile food vendor to operate on City of Montgomery right of ways. This allows the food truck to park and do business in designated spots on City of Montgomery streets for the first time. What current locations have been approved, and are there plans to authorize more locations in the future? SJ: As of today, we have five spots that are available for food truck vendors to use. Three are located in the parking lot of the old State House Inn on Madison Avenue next to the Armory and the Farmers Market, and the other two are in designated spots on North Ripley Street in front of the parking lot for the State House and the Gordon Persons Building. We will grow the spots and locations as the needs arise. I didn’t want to start out big and not get any participation. I would much rather start small, and as we get more traction, adjust accordingly. The locations we chose are centered near areas where we have large amounts of employees that may not have time to get to a brick and mortar establishment for lunch. We are hoping this is a convenience for the employees and also a business opportunity for the vendors. Is there any other information you would like readers to know about the food truck movement or even the food/entertainment scene in Montgomery as a whole? SJ: I think this is a prime example of government listening to the citizens of Montgomery and making a good reaction to their request. We cannot fulfill or act upon every request that is brought to the mayor’s office—that is just not possible—but we honestly review all requests we receive, vet them and make our decisions about what serves the public in the best possible way that we can. This is a great example of one of those successes. 34
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Cruising the Coosa By Mark Anderson
Paddling the Coosa is one of my favorite outdoor activities. Thousands of people from all around the Southeast have come to enjoy the fun and excitement the Coosa offers. On the Coosa River, you may be rubbing elbows with the server at a local Montgomery eatery or the CEO of a multimillion dollar company; you never know who you may run into. Whether it’s a canoe cruise with the kiddos, a big float trip with friends or soloing through some of the river’s white water rapids, the Coosa has something for everyone no matter your skill level. I am especially excited about this year’s Coosa River Whitewater festival hosted by the Coosa River Paddling Club. For thirty-one years, the festival has been introducing Central Alabamians to whitewater canoeing and kayaking on the Coosa River in Wetumpka. The festival is being held June 9-11 this year and is a weekend full of fun, entertainment and competition. Many people camp 36
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out at the Coosa Outdoor Center for the whole weekend to enjoy the evening bands and fellowship with other paddlers. The competitions are open to all levels of paddlers and playboaters. Boaters and spectators come from all over the United States to watch the skillful artistry of playboating at the famous Moccasin Gap rapid. The CRPC uses monies raised from the festival each year for various projects and donations, which benefit and enhance the Coosa River for the people and wildlife who enjoy its waters. For more information on the festival, contact Lonnie Carden at 334.202.3050 or Karen at 334.202.1059.
Coosa is outstanding. One often has the opportunity to see osprey, eagles and blue herons and chase several species of game fish. The Coosa is also the home of the magnificent Tulotoma snail, which is an endangered species. The Coosa is perfect for an afternoon or day-long adventure.
Residents of the River Region are a bit spoiled by the fact that we live just a short drive away from both the beach and the lake. Nevertheless, we need to remember that it is the River Region and that we live even closer to one of Alabama’s gems: the Coosa River. The scenery on the
The first mile of the Coosa is a wide expanse of flat water that allows you to become accustomed to your boat. Along the way, there are several rocks to jump from as well as a rope swing.
Two businesses primarily operate livery services on the Coosa; The Coosa Outdoor Center and Coosa River Adventures. They lease both canoes and sit-on-top kayaks. They also provide life jackets. These businesses will transport you to the put-in on the river just below the Lake Jordan Dam.
River Falls, the first mild rapids
on the Coosa, consists of several rapids interspaced with flat water scattered around several islands. This allows you to choose your route as the river splits around these islands. This area is abundant with wildlife, Cahaba lilies and 100-year-old Cyprus trees. It also has some excellent fishing on the eastern branches. River Falls is followed by another area of flat water with dozens of large rocks that are ideal stops for swimming or picnicking. As you paddle through this area, you begin to hear the roar of water from the Coosa’s most notable feature, Moccasin Gap. The river right of “the Gap” is a set of Class III rapids. The river left of the Gap is a Class II. For the inexperienced, you can simply portage over the rocks or paddle far to the left to avoid the larger rapids. The Gap is a great kayaking spot and is frequented by all of the Coosa’s serious kayakers. It is also a wellknown location for witnessing some of Central Alabama’s most epically bad tattoo decisions. The River Center Rock at Moccasin Gap is a great place to swim, get some sun and picnic with your family. There is also a nice swimming hole on the south side of the island! This is a great spot to watch both the serious kayakers surf their boats in the Gap and the fools go swimming after they flip their boats. There are few funnier sights than an old fashioned Coosa “yard sale.”
Just a few tips for the Gap. It is best not paddle the Gap backwards— intentionally or otherwise. It is not at all advisable to stand up and surf your canoe through the center of the Class III side of the Gap. And finally, it is an absolutely terrible idea to leave your boat and swim through the center of the Gap “commando” in your personal flotation device. Unfortunately, I can personally attest to the inadvisability of each of these acts.
moving again as it nears historic downtown Wetumpka. Whether you are a beginner or an experienced paddler, young or more mature, you’ll have a great time “cruising” the Coosa. Get out there and experience one of our area’s natural wonders. Coosa Outdoor Center 334.201.5510 Coosa River Adventures 334.514.0279
There are numerous rapids following Moccasin Gap, with the last rapid being Corn Creek Rapid. Corn Creek has numerous channels with varying levels of difficulty. You can pick a line and test your paddling ability or look for calmer waters and simply enjoy the scenery. If you are paddling with Coosa Outdoor Center, your takeout is to the left after this last major series of rapids. If you are paddling with Coosa River Adventures, you will continue paddling through the flat water stretch until the river starts MAY / JUNE 2017 RSVP 39
Dreamland is moving...
Visit Us Soon at our New Location 12 West Jefferson St. (formerly the Railyard location)
334-273-7427 Ain’t nothing like ‘em nowhere! Ain’t nothing like ‘em nowhere! Ain’t nothing like ‘em nowhere!
Photo by Jonathon Kohn
Henry Pugh, Jr. Gets His Day By Kim Traff
Henry Pugh has been playing music for as long as he can remember. He started playing music at 5 years old in the church and played in his first band with grown musicians when he was 12. Now, in his late 70s, Henry still plays four nights a week, on average. That usually entails a three-night stint playing for his many fans at Sous La Terre, and another playing at private events or at other music venues in town. In person, Henry is an imposingly tall man (6’5”) with huge hands that seem to envelop yours when you give him a handshake. Yet his daunting physicality holds within it a huge heart, a warm charisma and a smile that immediately makes
even strangers feel at home. He is one of Montgomery’s undeniable musical legends so it was fitting that Mayor Todd Strange declared April 19, Henry Pugh, Jr. Day. If you love the sounds of Etta James, Nat King Cole, Louis Armstrong and Ray Charles, you will enjoy listening to Henry Pugh, Jr. You can find him at La Salle Bleu, upstairs at 84 Commerce Street, on Wednesday evenings at 8:30 p.m. or Sous La Terre on Fridays and Saturdays, downstairs at 84 Commerce Street from 1 a.m. until the sun comes up.
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Photos by Caleb Hawk
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Table Talk
ATTITUDE
STREET FOOD
with
By Angela Hardgrave • Photos by Stephen Poff
Earlier this year, IgniteMGM held a pitch competition to award $12,000 to entrepreneurs who contributed to Montgomery in several different ways. The grants were divided into three concepts: a digital/social concept, a community impact art concept and finally a food truck concept. On a Roll, operated by Nick and Davena Jernigan, was one of the three finalists, along with Fire Meats Wood and NYC Gyro, in the food truck competition. On a Roll, who describes themselves as “Good Grub in the Heart of the South,” went on to win IgniteMGM’s food truck competition. Nick Jernigan said, “It was a great event! What really made it awesome was a group of business leaders coming together to support the dream of entrepreneurs. We really appreciate the folks who stepped up to support these groundbreaking ventures that are taking place in Montgomery.” On a Roll had been serving fresh dishes out of a Bullet Airstream on the corner of Tallapoosa and Commerce for a couple of years, but recently moved
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from that area. According to Jernigan, they like to take their food to “wherever the hungry people are.” Their menu includes items like noodles, salads, tacos, tuna, antipasto, pimento cheese, tenderloin, and gulf shrimp, and all their dishes are around $8-$12. Jernigan said, “We offer a variety of deliciousness! It’s a hybrid of the place we live, places we’ve lived, traveled to and places that we hope to travel to. It’s flavorful, healthyleaning food made with local ingredients and with a local and global flair.” The Jernigans are driven by the connection they make with their customers over a love and passion for good food. They treat everyone like family. “Few things compare to breaking bread with folks. We love to see the looks on people’s faces when they start eating something they thought they wouldn’t like,” said Jernigan. “What gives us the most joy are the new and returning customers enjoying our food and warm atmosphere. We are so thankful to each and every one who comes by,
refers someone, or gives us a honk and a wave as they drive by.” It’s obvious their customers love them, too, with the number of five-star reviews on the On a Roll Facebook page. Words like, “fabulous,” “incredible,” “delicious” and “amazing” are just a few of the compliments from their fans. Besides the food truck, the Jernigans also operate Montgomery Super Suppers in the Peppertree Shopping Center on Vaughn Road, where you can stop by and pick up homemade entrees, sides and desserts, as well as individual meals. They also offer a variety of fun cooking classes and catering services. Jernigan said, “We cater! We do everything from boxed lunches to wedding receptions—from 20 people to our largest event for 300—from casual to formal.” Montgomery Super Suppers also participates in the Pepper Place Market, an Alabama Farmers Market that operates in downtown Birmingham. According to the Pepper Place Market website, Super Suppers “has been providing the Montgomery area’s busy families with healthy, take-home meals for over three years. Customers can order online, by phone or stopping by the Peppertree Shopping Center. The Super Suppers team brings their signature house-made pimento cheese and their organic berry lemonade to The Market each visit!”
VOTED “MONTGOMERY’S BEST BAR FOR COLD BEER”
JOIN US FOR LIVE MUSIC FRIDAYS LUNCH & DINNER • PUB GRUB • COCKTAILS BEER GARDEN • 100+ CRAFT BEER LIST DOG & KID FRIENDLY • INDOOR & OUTDOOR DINING MILL CREEK BREWERY LAUNCH — MAY 17 YELLOWHAMMER TAP TAKEOVER — JUNE 14 CELEBRATE THE 4TH AT THE TIPPING POINT — JULY 4 JOIN US TO WATCH MEN'S SOCCER — JULY 12
The Jernigan’s passion for food and love for their customers shine through in all they do. When asked what they think the future holds for them, they could only say they are “taking it day by day.” Book them for your private events or find them on Facebook for updates and locations of their food truck.
On a Roll
Nick and Davena Jernigan Find them on social media as: @onarollmgm
FOR NEWS and UPDATES on TAP-TAKEOVERS, EVENTS, and SPECIAL RELEASES, LIKE US on FACEBOOK! facebook.com/thetippingpoint
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334.260.9110
Table Talk Syed Nawaz, one of the owners of NYC Gyro, the Montgomery-based food truck and restaurant, once worked in pharmaceuticals in New York City; however, he always had a love for food. To feed that passion, he began working in a bakery that supplied fresh bagels and bread to various locations throughout New York City. From there, he worked in his brother’s restaurant, which is where he gained much of his knowledge and experience in the food industry. Nawaz moved to Montgomery from lower Manhattan in December 2015 for, in his words, “family and a fresh start at life and business.” When he moved here, he brought the authentic Greek and Middle Eastern food he loved with him. His brother, Ali, and Ali’s wife, Ruquayah, already lived here and had all the restaurant savvy needed to run a successful business. The three teamed up to open a small storefront at 15 Commerce Street in downtown Montgomery.
NYC Gyro
NYC Gyro specializes in Greek and Middle Eastern cuisine. Nawaz said, “We have a lot of different delicious foods to choose from, such as Greek-style chicken, lamb gyros, hummus, baba ganoush, falafel, tabouli salad and Greek salad. We also have American food, such as burgers, wings and Philly cheesesteaks, as well as our chef special Pakistani food twice a week.” They also offer organic salads and shakes as well as vegetarian dishes. “We serve a lot of vegetarian options here at our location. Everything is made from scratch, and we make each and every order fresh, just the way our customers like it. We have some items that we have added to our menu named after some of our customers who requested it,” said Nawaz. They also cater and will deliver orders with a $20 minimum. Their storefront is convenient for customers who work downtown, but they plan to park their NYC Gyro food truck on the East side to cater to customers who can’t make it downtown during lunch hours. At a spacious 24 feet, the food truck, equipped with a rotisserie, grill and fryer, will be hard to miss in that part of town. Although this will be Nawaz’s first experience in the food truck business, it is sure to be a success, following in the footsteps of their brick and mortar store. Check their Facebook page to stay in the know! Something new for NYC Gyro is their late night hours, which allows them to serve the bar crowds and also bartenders when they get off work. They are now open from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. Sunday through Thursday and from 9 a.m. to 3 a.m. on Friday and Saturday.
When asked what drives him to do what he does, Nawaz shared, “It’s the passion to make great, quality-tasting food for the satisfaction and pleasure of people in the South…to have them try different kinds of food which are not very common in the South, like lamb gyros and falafel, and also meeting some awesome people that are just like family now.” With their present success, Nawaz and his family are looking to future expansion. He said, “We definitely plan to expand our business and to branch out to different locations upon the many requests from customers who want us to open a spot closer to them as well.” Looking at their Facebook reviews, it’s obvious why the customers would want a convenient location. With comments like “the food is always great” and “the best lamb gyro,” the customers love the deliciously authentic food from NYC Gyro as much as Nawaz and his family love their customers.
NYC Gyro
334-416-8161 nycgyromontgomery.com
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Honea Ins and Fin Svcs Inc Breck Honea ChFC CLU RICP, Agent 9100 Eastchase Parkway, Ste A Montgomery, AL 36117 Bus: 334-272-8423 0907515.1
State Farm Fire and Casualty Company State Farm General Insurance Company, Bloomington, IL
If two men are willing to take a leap of faith, leaving behind state jobs at a juvenile detention center to pursue a passion, then you know it must be good. That’s just what Josh Lord and Lomar Benson did when they started their business, Fire Meats Wood, a food truck they operate in downtown Montgomery. Their menu changes daily, but no matter what day it is, you will find an incredible selection of wood-smoked meats creatively showcased in a variety of dishes. Lord said, “Wood-smoked meat is our motto. We don’t want to be identified as just plain barbecue, though. We’ve created a wide range of menu items, like pulled pork nachos, brisket quesadillas, pork fried rice, tacos, Cuban sandwiches and even gourmet salads. One goal we have is serving quality food. If we wouldn’t feed it to our families, why would we sell it at all?” Both Lord and Benson have had a passion for food that stretches back over many years. Benson said, “I started in the food industry by admiring my uncle’s barbecue catering business and learning what it took to smoke meat about 15 years ago. As I began to follow in his pit-master footsteps, practicing on friends and family, I fell in love with the art of smoking meat. Josh and I realized that we both loved food, so we put our heads together and created
Photo by Wilson Oppert
our company.” Lord has his own history with food as well. He said, “I have always enjoyed cooking and dreamed of owning my own restaurant since I was 13, watching Great Chefs Great Cities on television after school. I’ve always enjoyed watching people prepare food on TV, like Jeff Smith with The Frugal Gourmet, as well as Justin Wilson. I never actually worked in a nice restaurant, only fast food and a bakery. The food truck idea kind of started as a joke. Lomar and I were working together and found out that we had a passion for food. He was into smoking meat, and I was really bent on preparing food in the home as opposed to eating out all the time.” You can find Fire Meats Wood on Tuesdays-Fridays from 11 a.m. until 2 p.m. at the Madison Mini Mart/Gas Station located at the corner of Madison Avenue and North McDonough Street. Benson and Lord currently only have one truck, but they produce some amazing food from it. “Our food truck is actually a trailer we pull with a truck, but we like to call it our mobile kitchen. It’s a big box on wheels. I am proud to say I designed all the graphics and artwork on our trailer BUT only with the help from my partner, Lomar, along with critique from family and friends,” said Lord. Fire Meats Wood also offers catering services, a la carte and on-
site cooking. Lord said, “We love to cater events. Not only that, but we want to offer people the opportunity to have us bring our mobile kitchen to their event. How cool would it be to have a wedding, have us park on the property, have all the food paid for, and people just come to our window and tell us what they want. It makes for a unique experience.” Being in the food industry can create some great memories. Benson said, “My memorable moment has been when our smoked chicken breast sandwich was created by one of our favorite customers, and they named it “The Big Willie.” Lord’s favorite memory goes back a bit further. He said, “When Lomar and I first jumped on this idea, we bought an old 1970’s RV that we were going to convert into a food truck. I remember cutting out the shower with an electric saw, covered in fiberglass, and thinking, ‘Is this a good reason to leave a state job and quit school?’” Neither men know what the years ahead look like, but they love what they do and love serving their customers. They say they’re “driven by the smile on a customer’s face when they enjoy our food.” Lord said, “Only God knows what the future holds. Preparation is our only control. I’m excited!”
Fire Meats Wood
Ave and N McDonough Street www.firemeatswood.com
tapas thursday happy hour from 5-6 Tuesday - saturday www.vymgm.com | 405 Cloverdale Road Montgomery, AL 36106 | 334-819-7215 Tue-Sat: | 5:00 pm – 10:00 pm Sun: | 10:30 am – 2:00 pm
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By Celka • Photos by Josh Moates / 50 Caitlin RSVP MA Y / JUNE 2017
Kim Box Photography
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PERFECT SPACE PERFECT PLACE
Photo Credit: Jessie Barksdale Photography
ELIZABETH BARRETT Elizabeth Barrett holds a degree in marketing that, along with her creativity, supports her growth and success in the retail industry. She has always enjoyed fashion and clothes from a young age and dreamt of owning her own store. She held her first job at Bella, a high-end boutique, at age 16, and after attending college she worked as the manager and buyer at Painted Pink for about four years.Today, she works as an in-house personal shopper and style consultant at Dillard’s in The Shoppes at Eastchase. Having a strong work ethic, determination and being able to accept constructive criticism have all had a positive impact on her success. She says, “I have learned, and am still learning, that failure is actually a good thing and it’s okay to make mistakes. It’s failure that actually makes us better at what we do.” Elizabeth’s favorite thing about her job is that it allows her to be as creative as she wants while leaving a smile on every customer’s face after helping them and ensuring they feel their best. Elizabeth is engaged to William “Davis” Bonham, Jr., and they plan to wed on September 23, 2017. When she is not working, she enjoys playing tennis, exercising, spending time with her friends, fiancé and three dogs, taking on DIY projects, and traveling.
Photo Credit: Kim Box Photography
SELBY DAVIS
The perfect venue for any event! Wedding
the BALLROOM
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Rehearsal the ROOFTOP TERRACE Dinner Stunning sky and city views. Bridesmaid Luncheon
Rustic, elegant and unassuming.
334.277.1077 | A L L E Y S TAT I O N . COM
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Selby Davis, custom homebuilder, remodeler and general contractor, graduated from Auburn University and worked for numerous companies before starting his own business in 2012. His father has been the director of the Home Builders Association of Alabama for 34 years and is his biggest mentor since he introduced him to the business and connected him with Hugh Cole and Nathan Watson— two of the best builders he has ever known. He says, “What I love most is not only building a place for people to live, but building their home that they will have so many memories in. It is such a rewarding feeling walking away after you’ve turned over someone’s keys to their brand new, custom home.” Davis likes to brag on the great families he has been fortunate enough to build for and says he would have no career to be successful in if it wasn’t for this community who has given him the opportunity to be recognized by his peers statewide in different construction project competitions. He stays involved as a board member for the Greater Montgomery Homebuilders Association, as a member of the Montgomery Chamber of Commerce and is accredited by the Better Business Bureau. He has been married to his wife, Sarah, for almost five years and they have 4-year-old identical twin boys, Russ and Jack. When he is not building, he enjoys his time at their family property in Greenville hunting and fishing.
KIESHA FAVOR Kiesha Favor has experienced many difficulties in her life, but that hasn’t stopped her. She is an Operation Iraqi Freedom Veteran, served as a sergeant in the U.S. Army, and did three tours in Iraq. She attended AUM before getting her certificate in medical billing and coding and is currently the denial management assistant in the clinical resource management department at Jackson Hospital. Her job is to ensure patients get as much medical care covered by their insurance as possible. She loves her position because she is able to care for patients—even if it’s behind the scenes. She says being a single mom has not been easy, but her two sons, Jaden and Jordon, have had the biggest influence on her success. They help keep her motivated as she works hard to provide the best environment for them to flourish in. She says, “They keep me going every day. Between their sports and homework, I had classes and homework of my own but pushed through, and I am now allowed to have an amazing career and I’m proud of my accomplishments.” Joining Emerge Montgomery and participating in Leadership Montgomery’s Torchbearers Leadership Course has been an integral part of her success and involvement in the community. In her free time, she enjoys shopping, trying new things and has recently discovered that she enjoys dragon boat racing.
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the LIST
MICHAEL SCHWARTZ
LIFE IS VALUABLE.
Michael Schwartz completed his educational studies at the Culinary Institute of America in Napa Valley and is now an executive and professional chef with an 18-year career with ClubCorp Private Clubs. He says the single biggest influence that has led to his success has been his relationship with God through faith. Doors have opened for him, and it has guided him in areas of wisdom, as it remains the key to all other family, friend and work relationships. Though he loves what he does, it was not always easy for him. He says, “With each step of this journey, I felt I had to earn success. Nothing has been handed to me. That said, I work by three rules: 1) Put the team first 2) Play for the guy next to you and 3) Prep like a warrior.” He thanks the community for their innate support and stays involved with Montgomery by helping in a number of outreach ministries serving soup and sharing his faith with others. He has also had the privilege of cooking for several annual charity fundraiser events. Chef Michael enjoys spending time with his wife, Donna, and his kids, Rebekah and Mindy. He enjoys being creative, digging in the dirt and is currently on a long journey of learning how to paint.
DONNA BEISEL Donna Beisel graduated from Auburn University Montgomery with a bachelor’s degree in secondary education language arts. She is currently the K-12 education coordinator at the Rosa Parks Museum at Troy University after teaching middle school for 13 years. She says the thing she loves most about her career is sharing the story of Rosa Parks, the Montgomery Bus Boycott and Mrs. Parks’ life of activism. She hopes that “history inspires someone else to go out and make a positive change in their own community.” Donna credits other museums and organizations in the area, as well as mentors at Troy University and the Rosa Parks Museum, who have been extremely helpful in sharing information and resources to help her acclimate and grow within the museum field. She also serves the community by helping in outreach projects such as cleaning up neighborhoods and renovating houses for low-income families and being involved in her church. She also enjoys visiting schools and sharing the story of Rosa Parks with children of all ages. She has been married to her husband, Bob, for nearly 22 years. In her free time, she enjoys spending time with her cats, enjoying good coffee and reading books. Donna also enjoys visiting other museums and cultural events and spending time with friends and family.
DREAM BIG. FLY EASY.
MOLLY STONE Molly Stone, a native of Louisiana and Auburn University graduate, is making a true impact on our community. Molly began her career in nonprofits as the development officer at the Montgomery Museum of Fine Arts before becoming the executive director of the Mid-Alabama Coalition for the Homeless in 2010. She recently transitioned to the role of associate executive director of The Wellness Coalition and is excited to be the executive director of the same organization in October of this year. She says, “We have a wonderfully collaborative nonprofit community that works together to achieve goals. I enjoy serving with other groups to solve community-wide problems.” Outside of her job, Molly volunteers with the Junior League of Montgomery, Health Services, Inc., and the Forest Avenue PTA to name a few. She is married to Brandon Stone, an attorney with Stone Law Group in Millbrook, and they have two daughters, 9-year-old Audrey and 4-year-old Anna. They are active members of First Baptist Church of Montgomery where Molly recently completed her seventh year as the children’s Bible drill director and helps in preschool, Sunday school and VBS. They spend their free time enjoying Montgomery’s cultural activities, supporting their alma mater Auburn University and traveling to visit family. Molly is an avid podcast listener and loves reading biographies and watching British television.
SimpleFLY your travel experience.
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the LIST
KATIE BRIGHT SNITIL Katie Bright Snitil graduated from Auburn University and is the membership director at the Capital City Club. She takes pride in representing a club that shares the same values and traditions of the city she calls home, and the opportunity to connect with so many great people while overlooking the beautiful downtown area. Both of her parents had a strong vision of a bigger and better Montgomery, and she was lucky enough to have grown up watching their vision come to life. She says, “The best part is, there are so many who shared that vision with them, including myself, who are still working to make that dream come true. I love this town and will always be one of Montgomery’s biggest cheerleaders!” Katie believes the community is full of incredible people that not only raised her but also provided the knowledge, encouragement and resources she needed to develop and flourish within this strong, always growing environment. Katie is actively involved with the community as an Emerge Montgomery member and has helped serve the Montgomery Humane Society, Prattville YMCA, and Hemophilia & Bleeding Disorders of Alabama. Katie is married to Eric and they have one dog named Bolt. On the weekends, they enjoy spending time at Jackson Lake Island, their family’s land. They love being with family, kayaking and hanging out outdoors.
ROBERT SHIMP Robert Shimp, a Montgomery native, has kept himself busy over the years. He attended Full Sail Center for the Recording Arts in Orlando, Florida, worked at Toast, The Plant, Fantasy, and The Annex recording studios, as well as Mezzanine and other music venues in the San Francisco Bay area. During that time, he was also touring with a few bands, mixing front of house and tour managing. He is currently an audio engineer and admits that becoming an audio engineer is not a traditional job, so he had to overcome anxiety, fear and self-doubt to prove to himself and others that it can be a viable career. His favorite part is getting to help musicians and artists turn concepts into a reality and getting to make a living listening to music. He currently works at Booker T. Washington Magnet High School where he hopes to develop an audio/event technology program. He feels the Montgomery Public School System’s arts program was the center of many of his accomplishments. He says, “Without it I would have been lost and never known about the creative job opportunities available to someone willing to work hard.This town taught me to create what I wanted if it wasn’t readily available, and that nothing good is easy.” He is happily married to Peggy, and they have one daughter, Elena.
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JEREMY KELLY Jeremy Kelly received his bachelor’s degree in mass communications and business from Auburn University Montgomery. When he began college, his father advised him to work toward being an entrepreneur and suggested a career in real estate. He took this sage advice and worked as an agent with Aronov Realty before becoming a broker and established his own independently operated agency, Kelly Realty, LLC. He says the biggest obstacle he had to hurdle to attain success in his career was fear—fear of failure, inadequacy and rejection. Once he was able to master that apprehension and overcome timidity, his career began to grow quickly. Jeremy says the community has contributed to his success by teaching him the power of resilience and grit. He has witnessed the amazing transformation of this city and the accelerated residential and commercial development and believes today’s Montgomery is dynamic and growing. He says, “When running your own business, you must wear many hats. Between selling homes, managing my rental portfolio and periodically flipping houses for profit, I stay very busy. I am also working toward getting my home builders license.” In his spare time, he enjoys reading nonfiction and biographies while relaxing at his neighborhood cigar bar, as well as boxing and hiking with his Siberian husky, Zeus.
JESSICA POWELL Jessica Powell graduated from the University of Alabama with a bachelor’s degree in science commerce and business administration. She became a licensed realtor and is currently employed with New Waters Realty and also works as the marketing director. Growing up, her parents and grandparents were exemplary examples of what hard work means. They helped set the foundation for her professional career. She has overcome her obstacles to get to this place in her career and says, “As a naturally shy person, every step in my career has encouraged me to come out of my shell. I let my light shine, no matter the situation, because you never know whom you’re impacting in the process. A simple smile can go a long way to improve someone’s day.” Jessica says that on any given day you can find her setting up a mini photo shoot, writing blog posts, planning an event, or organizing a new home listing. The versatility of her position makes her day more exciting. She has only lived in Montgomery for about five years, but she says it is wonderful that each area of Montgomery has a different vibe and there always seems to be something fun going on in the community. She enjoys spending time with her husband, Matt, and her one-year-old son, Bryant.
Give yourself the gift of confidence... www.psaom.com
| 6727 Taylor CT. Montgomery, AL 36117
| 334.284.2800
MICHAEL BENTLEY, M.D.,FACS • PATRICK BUDNY, M.D., FACS • J. ALLEN CLARK,III, M.D., FACS • J. DOUGLAS ROBERTSON, M.D., FACS
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Photos by Grace Photography On April 1, The Samaritan Counseling Center and Hampstead hosted the inaugural Hampstead Taste & Tour fundraiser. Fourteen Hampstead residents opened their beautifully-designed private homes for a sold-out event with over 200 attendees. Each homeowner created special food and drink tastings for guests to enjoy as they toured different parts of their homes and patios. Menus ranged from Italian, Asian and Mexican appetizers to a variety of dips, soups, cheeseboards, desserts and even a biscuit bar. The tour allowed attendees to get a taste of décor, floor plans, cuisine and most of all, the beautiful lifestyle and community Hampstead offers. The three-hour tour concluded at The Tipping Point with live music and drawings for fabulous prizes including outdoor speakers, interior design consultations, a digital doorbell, Mosquito Authority packages, lawn care, restaurant gift cards, photography packages and more. Over $25,000 was raised and will allow the Samaritan Counseling Center to expand their center to serve more people in need. The event was such a success that plans are already underway for next year’s tour. Sponsors: Alpha Lumber | Anchor Mortgage | Ball, Ball, Mathews & Novak Bell Media | Blackfinn Ameripub | Capell Howard and Mr. Bob Northcutt City Grill | Cohen Electronics | Forrest Meadows | Guardian Credit Union Henry Tile | Inline Lighting | Interscapes | Hughes Pools JK Lowder Family Foundation | Kim Box Photography | Landscape Workshop Leadingham Rodgers Accounting Firm | Motivated Movers | Mercer Homes Mr. Pete Cobb | Mr. Ben Baker | Mr. Roman Shaul | Shade Tree Landscape Serquest | Taylor Chandler | Texture Crete | The Colonial Company The Vintage Olive | Trustmark Bank | Warren Averett | Waylon Joseph Salon 60
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Photos by Dolores Love
More than 200 people enjoyed a fun night for a great cause when they attended the 2017 Party for Parkinson’s on April 8, 2017, at Wynlakes Country Club. This year’s 7th Annual Party for Parkinson’s guests were treated to dinner and drinks, along with a performance by music group Chevy 6. The annual party benefits the Parkinson’s Association of Central Alabama (PACA), which funds medical research toward a cure for Parkinson’s disease, as well as respite care programs for patients and caregivers in Central Alabama.
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PACA would like to extend special thanks to the sponsors of the 2017 Party for Parkinson’s: ABS Systems, Eddie Cobb; Aegis-Michaud Properties; Arthur Britton Foundation; Adams Drugs; Assured Partners; Dr. Winston Ashurst/Physician’s for Women; Ronnie & Nan Barganier; Dave & Lynda Borden; Goodwyn Mills & Cawood; McDonald & Hagen Wealth Management; Barrie & Laura Harmon; Jackson Thornton; Kwik Kopyshop; John & Candy Lindley; J.K. Lowder Family Foundation; McGriff Auto Service; Next Generation Consulting/Sue Bell Cobb; Rebel Pest Control; River Bank & Trust; Dr. William P. & Marian Saliski, Jr.; Talkington Scott, LLC; Tedford/Tellico, Inc.; David & Alice Thrasher; Turner Insurance & Bonding; Vernon & Lisa Taylor; Dr. Andy & Lisa Weil, Welch Hornsby; Woolard Brothers. To learn more about the PACA, visit www.parkinsonaca.org and like them on Facebook.
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Photos by Sellers Pierce
There is nothing better than honoring people we love, especially when it’s done in style! Sisters Alex Pierce and Caroline Gallahar, seniors at Montgomery Academy, were celebrated at a colorful, luau-themed tea hosted by friends and family at The Hampstead Lido Pool. Paper lanterns, a floral balloon arch and tiki bar with mai tai mocktails set the mood as girls mingled and captured selfies with fun props. The menu consisted of chicken skewers, fruit kabobs, pimento cheese and chicken salad sandwiches, but the tiki-themed cake pops and Alice Harris cookies (almost too pretty to eat) proved to be the most popular. This fall, Alex will be attending the College of Charleston, and Caroline will be attending the University of Alabama. Good luck girls! 64
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Kelly Chauvin Carlos - volunteer
The 13th Annual
Autism Crawfish Boil The 13th Annual Autism Mud Bug Ball took place in downtown Montgomery at Railyard Brewing Company on Saturday, April 1, 2017. Over 1,000 people showed up to eat over 4,000 pounds of crawfish, plus all the fixings. The crowd was entertained throughout the day by Blackberry Breeze, The Powell Brothers, Federal Expression, Sam Marsal, Al Bouler, Burnham Wood, Charity Bowden and Brian Hinton of Elite Music Sales. All proceeds will benefit autism services provided by Easter Seals Central Alabama. Last year’s donation topped $30,000, and the event expects to increase significantly this year. Candi Anderson and Kristen Gulino
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Photos by Hillary Andrews
Fred & Donna Michaud
Adam Powell - The Powell Brothers - donated their time for the second year in a row
Britt Powell - The Powell Brothers - donated their time for the second year in a row
Sean Rizzo - volunteer and Fred Michaud - event co-chair
Brad Gill - Committee Member - former owner of past location, Rock Bottom American Pub
Ricky Chauvin - Committee Member and JD - owner, JD Seafood who supply crawfish
Tison Singleton - committee member and Stefania Cumuze - event co-chair
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MAO’s Fashion Variety Show Photos by: Tamarisk Barksdale/NyLah Milan Photography Medical Advocacy and Outreach celebrated its 30th year anniversary by hosting a fashion and variety show to bring community awareness to the fight against HIV/AIDS on February 24, 2017, at My Place Catering and Events. The Fashion and Variety Show featured Alabama State University’s Elite Models and was planned and executed by Derricius Chambers and DaQuentin Davis. MAO’s mission is to educate the public about HIV/AIDS and related
illnesses and how to prevent the transmission of infection. MAO provides culturally competent education, medical and social services to people who are living with and affected by HIV/AIDS and related illnesses. MAO hopes that HIV/AIDS will be eradicated; until that is accomplished, MAO will ensure that all people in its service area living with HIV/AIDS and related illnesses can live a healthy life filled with dignity and respect.
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Baby in Bloom
Hosted by Crystal Strickland, Rebekah Edwards, Mallory Anderson, Kim Traff, Callie Starkie, Macy White and Aubrie Moates.
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Peyton Flowers has been on the RSVP team for over six years, so when she announced the news of her pregnancy, we started planning her baby shower immediately. Friends and family gathered to shower her with love and gifts for her baby boy, Rhettman Steele, who will be arriving later this month. Rhett was spelled out in big blocks at the entrance of the Hampstead Lido Pool, and the event room was adorned with blooms, bunnies and an adorable clothesline with monogrammed onesies. The “momosa” bar offered a variety of juices, fruits and, of course, champagne for the non-expectant mothers! We can’t wait to meet the newest member of the RSVP team!
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Course for Hope
Ann Fornay, Regions’ Senior Vice President and Corporate Contributions Director; Kathy Lovell, Regions’ Americans with Disabilities Act Manager; and Michael Hart, Regions’ Consumer Banking Executive, met a few MANE riders and were given a tour of MANE’s therapeutic riding facility by Program Director Tiffany Atkinson, after Regions committed to being the lead sponsor for Course for Hope 2017. Photo by Julie Reynolds.
MANE’s 2017 Course for Hope is a golf tournament, dinner and auction held every other year at Wynlakes Country Club that helps provide funding for the equineassisted activities program for River Region children and adults who have physical, cognitive, developmental and emotional disabilities. Regions Bank was the lead sponsor for the entire roster of events, which took place on Monday, March 6, 2017.
Lee Ellis tees up to try to win Riverside Chevrolet’s Silverado by getting a hole-in-one. 72
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The tournament started with a lunch, sponsored by Sterling Bank/Synovus. Baptist Health sponsored the practice putting green, and Brasfield & Gorrie sponsored the driving range. The 18 golf hole sponsors were AES Industries; Adams Drugs; Alabama Power Company; Ainsworth Game Technology; Aronov Realty Management, Inc.; Balch & Bingham, LLP; Beasley Allen; CMH Architects; D.R. Horton; Evans Meats and Seafood; Goodwyn, Mills, and Cawood; Habif, Arogeti, & Wynne; Hoar Construction; Neptune Technology Group; Ready Mix USA; Stewart Perry Construction; Sysco Central Alabama; and The W A Williamson Family Foundation. The Course for Hope Golf Tournament par 3 hole-inone prizes included a Jack Ingram Mercedes C300, a Riverside Chevrolet Silverado, and a Rolex watch courtesy of Ware Jewelers. Tournament champions were team United Johnson Brothers’ Mark Mussafer, Keith Rains, Michael Gruber and Kelcey Allison, who won 48” Vizio HDTVs. Runners-up were team D.R. Horton’s Andrew Hancock, Mike Finley, Steven French and Kenny Anderson, who won 40” Vizio HDTVs. Third place winners were team Ready
Granger Thaggard Auctioneers gets the highest bids while entertaining the crowd at MANE’s Course for Hope Dinner and Auction. Photo by Lauren Kay.
Eric Hunter congratulates Tim Hendricks, the winner of the putting contest. Photo by DiAnna Paulk.
MANE’s Course for Hope Dinner and Auction reception committee Lydia Beringer, Tiffany Atkinson, Jenny Brown, and Michelle Parkinson. Photo by Lauren Kay.
Mix USA’s Sid Coleman, Lee Barton, Jeff Kamykowski and John Ives, who won Bushnell laser range finders. After golf, the evening began with a cocktail reception and was followed by a steak dinner, sponsored by Merrill Lynch Private Banking and Investment Group’s Laurie Russell of Montgomery and Rod Westmoreland from Atlanta. During dinner, Granger Thaggard Auctioneers facilitated a live auction including items such as the Regions Suite at a Biscuits’ home game; envious vacations to destinations such as a North Carolina mountain home and resorts in San Diego, Italy, Scotland and the Bahamas; and much more! The “Catch A Miracle” program garnered more than 150 rider scholarships, ensuring that more deserving families than ever before will have access to MANE’s services and resources. Visit MANE’s website, www.maneweb.org, for event updates and information about the benefits of equineassisted activities, volunteering and donating. Please mark your calendars for MANE’s “Raise the Roof” party hosted by Wintzell’s Oyster House at MANE’s therapeutic horseback riding facility on Thursday, October 19, 2017. The next MANE’s Course for Hope Golf Tournament Dinner and Auction is on March 4, 2019!
Mark Snead, President and CEO of Sterling Bank / Synovus addresses those enjoying lunch.
Barry Bledsoe enjoyed playing on event sponsor Regions Bank’s golf team.
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Home & Auto go together. Like you & a good neighbor. Some things in life just go together. Like home and auto insurance from State FarmÂŽ. And you with a good neighbor to help life go right. Save time and money. CALL ME TODAY.
Cedric R Bradford, Agent 420 South Lawrence Street Montgomery, AL 36104 Bus: 334-262-5100 Fax: 334-264-3223 cedric@cedricbradford.com
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State Farm Mutual Automobile Insurance Company, State Farm Indemnity Company, Bloomington, IL State Farm County Mutual Insurance Company of Texas, Dallas, TX State Farm Fire and Casualty Company, State Farm General Insurance Company, Bloomington, IL State Farm Florida Insurance Company, Winter Haven, FL State Farm Lloyds, Richardson, TX
By Kim Traff • Photos by Brooke Glassford / Colorbox Photographers Let’s face it - smell sells. We love it when people tell us we smell good, and we talk about people and places that don’t. It’s just important to us. We asked our readers about their favorite smelling products and found some gems.
For your skin…
Escentric Molecules While it comes in a few different versions, I purchased Molecule 2 and within a week, probably received about 30-40 comments about how good or clean I smelled… even coming in from a sweaty day outside. No, really. Escentric Molecules was launched in 2006 by perfumer Geza Schoen, using only one ingredient - a substance that enhances the wearer’s natural pheromones. The revolutionary results are cult, unisex products that smell different yet no less delicious on every wearer. Available only at Bella in Montgomery or online at high-end boutiques, Molecule is a showstopper. 76
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For the home, office and your overall well being…
Young Living Essential Oils
We are all looking for more balance in our life, and although essential oils have been around for thousands of years, they are becoming more popular as people are discovering the healing benefits first hand. Young Living’s essential oils are far more powerful and pure than any others. Cultivating their own lavender, clary sage, peppermint and other herbs in Utah and Idaho, Young Living has the most technologically advanced distillery for the production of pure essential oils in North America. Whether used as aromatic diffusion, topical application or dietary consumption, there are hundreds of uses including aid with concentration, healing wounds, soothing sore muscles, neutralizing odors, increasing circulation, fighting germs and illness, overall mental health and peace, and so much more. For more information, email our favorite representative, Elena Littlefield, at waylenandelena@knology.net.
For the hands and body…
Inis Energy of the Sea
For your laundry…
Glamorous Wash Looking for something to make dirty laundry a little more exciting? Look no further. The first time you use Tyler Candle Company’s Glamorous Wash will be the last time you ever use anything else on your laundry. Amazing scents float up as you open the dryer door and permeate your entire home. While it’s a little pricey and recommended for delicates and linens, once you smell it you will have a hard time not using it on all your laundry. Available in eight scents and four sizes, mix a few ounces of this with a scent free detergent and be forever changed. If you want a less expensive option, try the dryer sachets that are good for about eight uses! Single ladies… you’re welcome. We call this “man-catcher.” Available at Candle Cabin.
Enriched with sea minerals and hand-harvested seaweed extracts, Inis Energy of the Sea is a clean, unisex fragrance that captures the coolness, clarity and purity of the ocean and makes you feel close to the sea - no matter where you are. Made with a concentrated, nutrient-rich blend of shea butter with added argan oil, this product helps nourish and protect hands and cuticles. Your hands will love you for it! If you love it and want to share the energy with your entire body, try the body scrub and body butter. Created by Fragrance of Ireland, these products are available at Candle Cabin.
For the hair…
Bumble & Bumble Curl Conscious Not only is this line one of the best smelling products we have ever encountered, but the birds nest you’ve been fighting will finally take up refuge somewhere else. Hallelujah!! Add this great product to your daily regimen and you can leave the hair be! While the Curl Conscious line has been around for years, Bumble & Bumble gave it a face lift, adding a few new products and changing the packaging, all while maintaining the intoxicating fragrance and the overall focus on products for curly and wavy hair. Available at Doug’s 2 Salon.
BEHIND THE SCENES... the RSVP team in action!
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when? what? where?
May 3- Reinhardt Lexus Children’s Charity Classic 8 a.m. Arrowhead Country Club. Join us for this annual golf tournament at Arrowhead Country Club benefiting the underprivileged children of the Boys & Girls Ranches of Alabama. Call Lori Johns Rider or Roman Rauccio for team registration or sponsorship information at 334.213.2071. Visit boysandgirlsranches.org. May 3 - Harriott II Daytime Lunch Cruise 11 a.m. Harriott II Riverboat. Have a luxurious lunch aboard the Harriott II. $20 per person. Call 334.625.2100 or visit funinmontgomery.com for more information. May 5- Date Night Movies on the Green Dusk. Riverfront Park. A date night movie will be played on a big blow-up screen in Montgomery’s Riverfront Park starting at dark on the first Fridays in April, May and June. Bring chairs or blankets for seating. Food vendors and a cash bar will be available for purchase. No outside alcohol allowed. Must be at least 18 years or older. Pets welcome. Tickets must be purchased online or at the gate.Visit funinmontgomery.com. May 5, 12, 19, 26 – Harriott II Friday Dinner Cruises 6:30 p.m. Harriott II Riverboat. Spend your Friday nights cruising down the river on the Harriott II while enjoying dinner, live entertainment and a cash bar. Ticket prices will vary. Call 334.625.2100 or visit funontheriver.net.
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May 5, 7- From Darkness Into Light Times vary. Wilson Auditorium at the Montgomery Museum of Fine Art.Witness the sound of our newest performing ensemble, the Montgomery Chamber Chorale, in their spring concert! Ticket prices vary. For more information, call 334.265.3737 or visit montgomerychorale.org. May 6- 39th Annual Combat Cancer Jubilee Run 7 a.m. Old Alabama Town, 301 Columbus Street. Join us for the 39th Annual Combat Cancer Jubilee Run presented by Alfa Life Insurance Company. Proceeds benefit The American Cancer Society’s Relay for Life. 8K Run, 2 Mile Run, 1 Mile Walk,Wellness Expo, Kids Area and other activities are available! Gates open at 7 a.m., 8K starts at 7:30 a.m., 2 Mile Run starts at 8:45 a.m. and 1-Mile Honor/Memory Walk begins at 9:30 a.m. For more information or to register online visit jubileerun.org. May 6- 2017 Montgomery Kidney Walk 8:30 a.m. Baptist Health DeBoer Building. The 30th annual Montgomery Kidney Walk helps fund Alabama Kidney Foundation’s Financial Assistance Program. Our goal is to raise more than $80,000 to provide financial assistance to kidney patients in our region and statewide. Fundraising teams are forming now. Contact Pam Sparks, AKF regional director, at 334.430.8716 or pam@alkidney.org for more information.
when? what? where? May 6- Kentucky Derby Benefiting Hospice of Montgomery 3:30-6:30 p.m. Montgomery Country Club. As Hospice of Montgomery’s largest fundraiser, this event is a fun-filled afternoon affair with a post-position horse draw, exclusive silent auction, bourbon tasting, cigar bar, food, music and viewing of the Kentucky Derby! Please visit hospiceofmontgomery.org for more information. May 6,13,20,27 – Saturday Social on Harriott II 4:30 p.m. Harriott II Riverboat. Enjoy live entertainment, a cash bar and concessions as you ride down the river. $20 per adult and $15 per child. Call 334.625.2100 or visit funinmontgomery.com. May 6- Ranch Roundup 5-8p.m. Bartlett Ranch, 755 Old Carter Hill Road, Pike Road. Join us for a night of dinner, auction, games and fun as the JK Lowder Family Foundation, the Jay L. Smith Family Foundation, Bartlett Ranch and Serquest host the 4th annual Ranch Roundup. The event is catered by Jim and Nicks, and music is provided by the Lo Fi loungers. Several items will be auctioned or raffled off, including a beautiful piece of jewelry from Bryan’s Jewelry, benefiting the Family Sunshine Center in their mission of assisting victims of domestic violence and sexual assault.Tickets are $75.Visit familysunshine.org and follow the Ranch Roundup tab for tickets or call 334.206.2124. May 6- Annual Fitzgerald Museum Gala and Silent Auction 6:30-10 p.m. Union Station Train Shed.The museum’s annual gala is a costume party and fundraiser dedicated to helping preserve one of the last homes of Montgomery’s own Zelda Sayre and her husband, the internationally acclaimed author F. Scott Fitzgerald. Tickets are $50. Call 334.264.4222 for more information. May 7,14,21,28- Music in May at the Waters 4-6 p.m.The Waters in Pike Road. Looking for a fun family event this spring? Join us at The Waters in Pike Road for Music in May! We’ll have LIVE MUSIC at The Square from 4-6pm each Sunday – bring your family & friends out for a fun afternoon! May 7th: Heath Cowen and Brandon Hayes; May 14th: Rachel Wilson; May 21st:Wes Darnell; May 28th: John Emil. For more information, contact 334.272.3200 or visit thewatersal.com. May 7, 21, 28– Harriott II Sunday Blues Cruise 5:30. Harriott II Riverboat. Enjoy a sunny Sunday afternoon aboard the Harriott II. Includes live entertainment, cash bar and concessions. $20 per adult and $15 per child. Call 334.625.2100 or visit funinmontgomery.com. May 8- Culinary Fight Club Blended Burger Battle 6-9 p.m. Central Restaurant. There are thousands of ways to create the perfect burger. On this night, chefs will compete in the ultimate burger battle! 60 minutes. 1 winner. Who will be crowned Montgomery’s Culinary Fight Club Burger Champion? More info and tickets available at culinaryfightclub.com. May 10 – Eggs and Issues with Congressman Mike Rogers 7:30-8:30 a.m. RSA Activity Center. Congressman Rogers will provide an update on activities in Washington DC as they relate to Alabama and the River Region, followed by audience Q&A. $25 for members and $35 for nonmembers. Email Brenda King at bking@ montgomerychamber.com for more information.
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when? what? where? May 11 – Mother’s Day Brunch in Ariccia Trattoria 10:30 a.m. – 2 p.m.Ariccia Trattoria. Give mom the royal treatment at Ariccia Trattoria & Bar this Mother’s Day, where she will dine like a queen at the Mother’s Day Brunch.The chefs will indulge her with dozens of mouth-watering specialties while she spends the day with her family. During brunch, young ones are invited to visit the Kid’s Corner where they can get creative with arts and crafts and make a special gift for mom. Prices range from $45 for adults and $19 for children. Children 5 and under are free. Reservations are required and can be made by calling 334.844.5140 or visiting auhcc.com. May 11-12- A Taste of Greece 11 a.m.- 8 p.m. Greek Orthodox Church, corner of Mt. Meigs and Capital Parkway. Come join us for the 28th Annual Greek Food Festival. Try the traditional dishes of Greece, browse the gift shop for imported items and learn a little about our faith, our families and our fun-loving spirit! Free to attend. Menu prices vary. For more information, call 334.263.1366 or email 28thGreekFestival2017@ gmail.com. May 11- Taste of the Gardens 2017 5-8 p.m. Southern Homes & Gardens. Southern Homes & Gardens (SH&G) and the American Red Cross present the annually held Taste of the Gardens, a benefit for the American Red Cross. The event includes a silent auction featuring works from local artists, tasting from the River Region’s finest restaurants and caterers, wine and live music.Also, during the event, SH&G will offer 20% off some items in the store (see store sales staff for discount details and applicability). Event tickets are $25, and may be purchased at SH&G, Caffco Outlet or at the American Red Cross, Central Alabama. Tickets also will be available at the door the day of the event. For more information, contact Kelly Hodges at 334.260.4040 or email kelly.hodges@redcross.org. May 11- $10,000 Draw Down 6 p.m. Wynlakes Golf & Country Club. The country club is selling 400 numbered tickets for $100 each. Proceeds benefit Mental Health America Montgomery. Each ticket holder and one guest will enjoy a great night of fun, food and a cash bar while supporting this agency. Essentially, the $10,000 winner is the last number pulled. Door prizes available. Additional guests/attendees pay $30. RSVP to 334.262.5500 by May 5. May 11 - Mother’s Day Floral Workshop 6 – 8 p.m. The Shoppes at EastChase. Bring your mom and/or a friend and join The Shoppes at EastChase and Evan G. Cooper for a fun floral workshop. Evan will teach you how to create the perfect Mother’s Day Centerpiece and you’ll also be able to enjoy light bites and wine provided by Whole Foods Montgomery.Tickets are $30 and can be purchased online at theshoppesateastchase.com. May 12 – 60 Minute Coffee 8 a.m. Montgomery Antiques & Interiors, 1955 Eastern Boulevard. This monthly member event is the perfect way to begin your day. Meet potential clients, make important contacts and network with chamber executives and community leaders. For more information, call Sandra Kelley at 334.240.9298. May 12- Prattauga Art Guild Annual Youth Art Show 1-3 p.m. Prattville Creative Arts Center. The Prattauga Art Guild will hold its annual Youth Art Show and will open with an awards 82
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when? what? where? reception.Youth in Autauga County in grades K-12 are invited to submit artwork for the exhibit. For more information, contact the Special Events Office at 334.595.0854 or visit the website at artguild.prattvilleal.gov. May 12- Gala for Gardens 5:30-8:30 p.m. Downtown Farm, 485 Molton Street. Hosted by the River Region Medical Alliance, proceeds benefit creating gardens in local schools through EAT South. A $50 ticket admits one to enjoy food, live music and festivities. Cash bar available. Farm Chic attire. Purchase tickets online at riverregionmedicalalliance.com or by calling 334.324.7312. May 12- Celtic Woman 7:30-9:30 p.m. Montgomery Performing Arts Centre. This multiplatinum Irish music sensation presents DESTINY, an enchanting new show and world concert tour. This unforgettable live concert experience features all new stage designs, stunning wardrobes and magnificent arrangements with superb choreography. Ticket prices vary. Call 334.481.5100 or visit mpaconline.org. May 12-14- Southern Writers’ Project (SWP) All-day event. Alabama Shakespeare Festival. Experience the diverse, varied heritage of the South and take a look at who we are today during the Southern Writers’ Project Festival of New Plays, an event that gives modern-day storytellers a chance to develop their stories by working with actors, directors, dramaturges and an audience. The SWP weekend package includes readings of four plays, mingling with actors and meals for $144 per person. Single readings are available for $15 general admission and $10 for students. For more information, please visit southernwritersproject.net or call 334.271.5353. May 13, 20, 27 - The Shoppes at EastChase Farmers Market 7 a.m. – Noon. Near Dillard’s at The Shoppes at EastChase. The Shoppes at EastChase will kick off the 13th Annual Farmers Market on Saturday, May 13 with a grand celebration featuring chef demonstrations, balloons and face painting for the kids, live music by the Blackbird Pickers and giveaways! The Shoppes at EastChase Farmers Market will be held every Saturday and will run through Saturday, October 28, from 7 a.m. until noon. For more information about The Shoppes at EastChase Farmer Market, contact Guest Services at 334-279-6046. May 12-13 – River Jam Music Festival 6-10 p.m. Union Station Train Shed & Riverwalk Amphitheatre. Enjoy two fun-filled nights of music and fun. FREE ADMISSION both nights! For more information, call 334.625.2100 or visit funinmontgomery.com. May 13- Agape Run For a Mom 5K and Fun Run 7-10:30 a.m. Vaughn Park Church of Christ. Hosted by Agape of Central Alabama, the race will take place at theVaughn Park Church and will continue through the Vaughn Meadows community. Registration for the 5k is now open and ranges from $5 to $30. All proceeds from the Run for a Mom 5k & Fun Run will directly benefit Agape of Central Alabama and its mission to support women, children and families through foster care, adoption and crisis pregnancy counseling. For more info, visit runforamom.org or call 334.272.9466. MAY / JUNE 2017 RSVP 85
when? what? where? May 13- OATHS 20th Annual Herb Day 8 a.m. – 3 p.m. Old Alabama Town. OATHS will fill Old Alabama Town with herb plant vendors, growing tips, cooking demonstrations, medicinal herbs, children’s activities, and viewings and music in the gardens! Event is free to the public.Visit oathsblog.com. May 14 – Mother’s Day at the Montgomery Zoo 9 a.m.- 5:30 p.m. Montgomery Zoo. Free admission for moms! Celebrate Mother’s Day at the Montgomery Zoo. All moms receive FREE admission to the Montgomery Zoo and Mann Wildlife Learning Museum.Visit montgomeryzoo.com for more information. May 14- Mother’s Day at Central Restaurant 11a.m.- 2 p.m. Central Restaurant. Celebrate mom with an amazing brunch buffet at Central this year. Need a Mother’s Day gift? Give mom the gift of Central! Get a FREE $10 bonus card for yourself when you buy a $50 gift card for mom! Gift cards available inside Central or online at central129coosa.com. May 14 – Mother’s Day Dinner Cruise on the Harriott II 6:30 p.m. Harriott II Riverboat. Take mom to an elegant dinner on the river. Ticket prices vary. Cruise will include lunch, a rose for mom, live entertainment and a cash bar. Call 334.625.2100 or visit funinmontgomery.com. May 16- Trivia Tuesday 8 p.m. Blackfinn Ameripub. Grab your five smartest friends for Trivia Night! Teams of six or less. 20 questions about history, movies, science, geography, food, and drink, with an intermission. Winner receives a $50 gift card and bragging rights! For more information, contact Makenzie Bosley at mbosley@blackfinnmontgomery.com. May 17- Mill Creek Brewery Launch Time TBD.The Tipping Point. Come out and enjoy an evening of live music, pub grub and craft beers. Dog and kid friendly. Outdoor and indoor dining. For more information, visit our Facebook page or call 334.260.9110. May 18 - Stylist Sessions: Upping Your Social Media Game 6-8 p.m. The Shoppes at EastChase, near Bath + Body Works. Snap, post, repeat; seems pretty simple, right? Well, believe it or not, there are tons to learn when it comes to making the most of social media! Come out to hear from a social media expert and learn how to revamp your brand or personal social media presence, refresh your social channels and so much more! Tickets are $15 per person and can be purchased online at theshoppesateastchase.com. May 18- Capri Classics: Bonnie and Clyde 7:30 p.m. Capri Theatre. It’s the Great Depression, and there are bills to pay. Clyde Barrow decides to make his money the more exciting way - through crime. When he tries to steal a car, the owner’s daughter, Bonnie decides his life is more exciting than hers, and they team up to go on a crime spree together. As if law enforcement doesn’t have enough reason to catch them, the robberies soon turn violent.Ticket prices vary. Call 334.262.4858 for more information. May 19- Riverbend Brewfest 6-9 p.m. Riverfront Park.This unique event will feature live music, local food vendors and a large selection of local, regional and nationally renowned craft, seasonal, specialty and micro-brewed beers. Tickets for the Brews Cruise sold separately.Visit funinmontgomery.com for more information. 86
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when? what? where? May 19- Brews Cruise 9:30 p.m. Harriott II Riverboat. Spend your Friday night after Brewfest cruising down the river while enjoying concessions, live entertainment and a cash bar. Ticket prices will vary. Call 334.625.2100 or visit funontheriver.net May 20- Montgomery Biscuits Firework Show Times vary. Biscuits Stadium. Stay after the Biscuits take on Jackson for an incredible fireworks show. Great for the whole family. For more information, visit biscuitsbaseball.com or call 334.323.2255. May 20- Prattville/Autauga Farmers Market Grand
Opening
7 a.m. – Noon. Prattville Farmers Market.The Farmers Market will feature fruits and vegetables from local growers. There also will be fresh baked goods, honey, handmade soaps, music and a chef creating something tasty from products from the local growers. For more information about the Farmers Market, contact the Special Events Office at 334.595.0854 or visit prattvilleal.gov. May 20- Mayor’s Bike Ride 9:45 a.m. Upper Kingston Park, Prattville. As part of the National Kids to Parks Day, Mayor Bill Gillespie, Jr. will hold his annual bike ride. Riders 8 and older will take off from Upper Kingston Park and riders 7 and younger will begin at the Chamber of Commerce. All riders will end at Pratt Park by Stanley Jensen Stadium to enjoy Touch A Truck. These events are FREE and open to the public. Bike riders must wear helmets. For more information, contact the Special Events Office at 334.595.0854 or visit prattvilleal.gov. May 20- Touch A Truck 10 a.m. Pratt Park by Stanley Jensen Stadium, Prattville. Touch A truck will include fire trucks, police vehicles, backhoes, dump trucks, tractor-trailer rigs, racecars and more for the children to explore and learn about.These events are FREE and open to the public. For more information, contact the Special Events Office at 334.595.0854 or visit prattvilleal.gov. May 20- Antique & Classic Car & Truck Show 10 a.m.- 3 p.m. Union Station Train Shed. Bring the whole family and enjoy live entertainment. Awarding top 25 cars and “Best of Show.” Proceeds benefit the Adullam House. Entry fee is $20. For more information, call Bill Moses at 334.300.1333 or visit funinmontgomery.com. May 20- EAT South presents: Worm Wrangling and
Compost Critters
10 a.m.- Noon. E.A.T. South Downtown Farm, 485 Molton Street. EAT South will teach you how to feed the night critters, and they will turn your food waste into compost gold! This events is FREE and open to the public. For more information, call 334.422.9331 or visit facebook.com/events/1829520887311967 for more information. May 21- Yoga at the Fitzgerald Museum 4:30-5:45 p.m. Scott and Zelda Fitzgerald Museum. Join others in the community to take part in a marvelous yoga class offered by MJ Yoga! Don’t miss this opportunity to enjoy a fulfilling and rewarding yoga experience at one of Montgomery’s many MAY / JUNE 2017 RSVP 89
when? what? where? historic and unique landmarks. The class is only $10 and all proceeds go toward the Fitzgerald Museum. And don’t forget to check out some of the sweet MJ Yoga apparel that will be on site! For more information, please call 334.398.8161 or visit facebook. com/events/1856864911257313/. May 25- Business After Hours 5 p.m. Answered Prayer Home Care Services, 4101-C Wall Street. This popular after-work networking event is the perfect place to exchange business cards and meet potential customers. People do business with people they know. Be sure to bring plenty of business cards and build your customer base! Event is free for chamber members. Email lnorton@montgomerychamber.com for more information. May 26 – The Sounds of Motown 5 p.m. – Midnight. Union Station Train Shed. Enjoy this FREE event to kick off the Rev. Dr. A.W. Watkins Charity Golf Tournament, featuring musical acts by saxophonist Kelley O’Neal, Deundray Robinson and Soul Funk Band, DJ66, and Official Clutch Band. There will be food and drink vendors. Lawn chairs welcome, coolers not allowed.Visit revdrawwatkins.org. May 26 – Montgomery Symphony Jubilee Pops Concert 7-9 p.m. Alabama Department of Archives. The Montgomery Symphony will kick off the Memorial Day weekend with a free outdoor concert. Picnic baskets, coolers, lawn chairs and blankets are all welcome at this free concert. Visit montgomerysymphony. org for more information. May 27 – Rev. Dr. A.W. Watkins Charity Golf Tournament
7:30 a.m. Robert Trent Jones Golf Course, Prattville. Support the Reverend Dr. A.W. Watkins Scholarship Foundation. HOLEIN-ONE WINS 2017 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 LT. Registration begins at 7:30 a.m. with tee-off at 8:30 a.m. Enjoy 18 holes of golf (including cart), lunch, door prizes and an exciting awards banquet... all for just $100 per player. Sponsorship opportunities are available. Please pre-register by going to revdrawwatkins.com or contacting Yolanda Watkins, 334.538.3961 yolandawatkins01@hotmail.com. All proceeds go to Rev. Dr. A.W.Watkins Scholarship Fund. May 28- Late Night Memorial Day Cruise 9-11 p.m. Harriott II Riverboat. Enjoy your evening aboard the Harriott II. Includes live entertainment, cash bar and concessions. $15 per adult. Call 334.625.2100 or visit funinmontgomery.com. June 1, 8, 15, 22, 29 - Sounds of Summer 7-9 p.m.The Shoppes at EastChase, near Gap.Those sweet, sweet, sounds of summer are back at The Shoppes at EastChase! This weekly {free} music series is open to the public, so grab a chair, blanket and your friends for a night of fun at The Shoppes. Local food trucks and restaurants including Blackfinn Ameripub, Frios, That’s My Dog, Fire Meats Wood and Sol Taqueria will be serving up food and drinks too! Bring the kids for free face painting, balloons and bounce houses! For a complete listing of bands, visit www.theshoppesateastchase.com. June 2- Date Night Movies on the Green Dusk. A date night movie will be played on a big blow-up screen down in Montgomery’s Riverfront Park starting at dark on the first Friday’s in April, May and June. Bring chairs or blankets for seating.
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when? what? where? Food vendors and a cash bar will be available for purchase. No outside alcohol allowed. Must be at least 18 years or older. Pets welcome. Tickets must be purchased online or at the gate. Visit funinmontgomery.com. June 2,9,16,23,30 – Harriott II Friday Dinner Cruises 6:30 p.m. Harriott II Riverboat. Spend your Friday nights cruising down the river on the Harriott II while enjoying dinner, live entertainment and a cash bar. Ticket prices will vary. Call 334.625.2100 or visit funinmontgomery.com. June 3, 10, 17, 24 - The Shoppes at EastChase Farmers
Market
7 a.m. – Noon. Near Dillard’s at The Shoppes at EastChase. The Shoppes at EastChase Farmers Market will be held every Saturday and will run through Saturday, October 28, from 7 a.m. until noon. For more information about The Shoppes at EastChase Farmer Market, contact Guest Services at 334-279-6046. June 3– March for Babies 9 a.m. Baptist Health DeBoer Building. Join the March of Dimes event with friends, family or coworkers. The event will help raise funds to support children in the Montgomery community. Visit marchofdimes.org. June 3,10,17,24 – Saturday Summer Lunch Cruises 11 a.m. Harriott II Riverboat. Spend your summer on the river. Tickets prices to include lunch are $20, without lunch are $12. Call 334.625.2100 or visit funinmontgomery.com. June 3,10,17,24 – Harriott II Saturday Dinner Cruises 6:30 p.m. Harriott II Riverboat. Enjoy live entertainment, a cash bar and concessions as you ride down the river.Ticket prices will vary. Call 334.625.2100 or visit funinmontgomery.com. June 3,10,17,24 – Saturday Party Cruises 10:30 p.m.- Midnight Harriott II Riverboat. Every Saturday night in June, come out for a great night cruising down the river. $15 per person. Includes live entertainment, cash bar and concessions. Call 334.625.2100 or visit funinmontgomery.com. June 4,11,18,25 – Harriott II Sunday Blues Cruise 5:30 p.m. Harriott II Riverboat. Enjoy a sunny Sunday afternoon aboard the Harriott II. Includes live entertainment, cash bar and concessions. $20 per adult and $15 per child. Call 334.625.2100 or visit funinmontgomery.com. June 5-30 – Zoo Summer Camp 8 a.m.-5 p.m. daily. Montgomery Zoo. Zoo Summer Camp is a fun-filled, educational wildlife experience. Geared for kids 5-12 years old, boys and girls, half and full-day camps available. Camp activities include scavenger hunts, behind the scene tours, live animal presentations and much more. Fee is $180.There are four separate weeks of camp.Visit montomgeryzoo.com. June 6- Summer Spectacular Concert 7-9 p.m. Saint James United Methodist Church. The Capitol Sounds Concert Band will perform selections from “The Planets” by British composer Gustav Holst, and the Slavonic March by Russian composer Peter Tchaikovsky. In addition, the band will perform a medley from the Gershwin opera “Porgy and Bess” as well as a symphonic suite from “Star Trek.” The event is free to MAY / JUNE RSVP 91
when? what? where? the public, but donations are gladly accepted and will go toward performances for the upcoming 2017-18 season. For more information, call 334.625.4661or visit capitolsounds.org.
The Coast is Here!
June 6- Trivia Tuesday 8 p.m. Blackfinn Ameripub. Grab your five smartest friends for Trivia Night! Teams of six or less. 20 questions about history, movies, science, geography, food and drink, with an intermission. Winner receives a $50 gift card and bragging rights! For more information, contact Makenzie Bosley at mbosley@blackfinnmontgomery.com. June 8- A+ Banquet 6:30 p.m. Prattville Marriott Legends Conference Center. The Autauga Education Foundation (AEF) is excited to announce Troy Trojan Coach Neal Brown as this year’s special guest speaker at their A+ Banquet. Attendance and sponsorship of the banquet enables funding and community support to attract and support excellent teachers, promote outstanding student academic achievement and character development, and strengthen the region’s economic vitality and reputation. Sponsorship opportunities are available and individual tickets are $100. For more information, please contact AEF at 334.312-7047 or amy@autaugaef.org. Tickets and table sponsorships can be purchased online at autaugaef.org. June 10- Montgomery Biscuits Firework Show Times vary. Biscuits Stadium. Stay after the Biscuits take on Chattanooga for an incredible fireworks show. Great for the whole family. For more information, visit biscuitsbaseball.com or call 334.323.2255. June 13- Huey Lewis and the News 7:30 p.m. Montgomery Performing Arts Centre. Come out and enjoy your evening listening to Californian rock/pop Henry Lewis sing and play harmonica for his band. Ticket prices vary. Visit mpaconline.org.
served blackened, broiled, or crispy Join us for fresh, fast seafood in our relaxed atmosphere where kids eat free on Thursday nights. 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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June 14- Yellowhammer Tap Takeover Time TBD. The Tipping Point. Come out and enjoy an evening of live music, pub grub and craft beers. Dog and kid friendly. Outdoor and indoor dining. For more information, visit our Facebook page or call 33.260.9110. June 14- 60 Minute Coffee 8 a.m. Brantwood Children’s Home, 1309 Upper Wetumpka Road. This monthly member event is the perfect way to begin your day. Meet potential clients, make important contacts and network with chamber executives and community leaders. For more information, call Sandra Kelley at 334.240.9298. June 15 – Military Appreciation Day 9 a.m.-5:30 p.m. Montgomery Zoo. Free admission for all military personnel (retired and active duty) and their dependent family members.Visit montgomeryzoo.com. June 15- Capri Classics: Raising Arizona 7:30 p.m. Capri Theatre. Ed, a police officer, and her husband, Hi, an allegedly reformed criminal, can’t have any kids of their own. Meanwhile, local businessman, Nathan Arizona just had five kids. At once. That’s just unfair. To give you a hint of their madcap
when? what? where? misadventures - Hi’s former cellmates escape prison and come to visit and take the baby along to rob a bank, Hi turns to robbing convenience stores again to get diapers, and Ed turns into a reluctant getaway driver. On top of it all, a bounty hunter is after the baby with the intention of selling the kid on the black market. Ticket prices vary. For more information, call 334.262.4858. June 16- Montgomery Boss Babes Brunch and Business Expo
9 a.m. – 3 p.m. The Renaissance Hotel and Spa. The Montgomery Boss Babes Brunch is back and better than before. In addition to our networking brunch, we are also having a business expo filled with dynamic workshops and speakers who are going to help you take your business to the next level. There will be workshops on social media, marketing, business formation, networking and more! Take your business and network to the next level! For more information, visit info@operationevolve.com. June 18 – Father’s Day at the Montgomery Zoo 9 a.m.- 5:30 p.m. Montgomery Zoo. Free admission for dads. Celebrate Father’s Day at the Montgomery Zoo. All dads receive FREE admission to the Montgomery Zoo and Mann Wildlife Learning Museum.Visit montgomeryzoo.com.
In the Know. In the Now.
In your Inbox.
June 18 – Father’s Day Dinner Cruise 6:30 p.m. Harriott II Riverboat. Show dad how much you care! Ticket prices are $46 per adult, $26 per child, Patio $25 per adult & $20 per child. Cruise will include dinner, a coffee mug for dad, live entertainment and a cash bar. Call 334.625.2100 or visit funinmontgomery.com. June 20- Trivia Tuesday 8 p.m. Blackfinn Ameripub. Grab your five smartest friends for Trivia Night! Teams of six or less. 20 questions about history, movies, science, geography, food, and drink, with an intermission. Winner receives a $50 gift card and bragging rights! For more information, contact Makenzie Bosley at mbosley@blackfinnmontgomery.com. June 24 – Cycling for Sight 8 a.m. – Noon.Tallapoosa Lakes Convention Center. Choose either a 21-mile or 45-mile route and enjoy the beautiful rural roads of east Montgomery County. Held by the Montgomery Lions Club, the event aims to stop preventable blindness.Visit montgomerylionsclub.com.
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MAY / JUNE 2017
June 29- Business After Hours 5 p.m.TBD.This popular after-work networking event is the perfect place to exchange business cards and meet potential customers. People do business with people they know. Be sure to bring plenty of business cards and build your customer base! Event is free for chamber members. Email lnorton@montgomerychamber.com for more information.
GRADUATIONS Alabama Christian Academy May 21 – 2:30 PM Frazier United Methodist Church Autauga Academy May 19 – 7 PM Autauga Academy Football Field East Memorial Christian Academy May 19 – 7 PM East Memorial Baptist Church Eastwood Christian School May 19 – 7 PM The Sanctuary on Campus Edgewood Academy May 18 – 7 PM Wetumpka Civic Center Evangel Christian Academy May 26 – 7 PM Evangel Temple Sanctuary Hooper Academy May 18 – 7 PM Montgomery Performing Arts Centre Jeff Davis High School May 19 – 6 PM Alabama State University Lee High School May 21 – 6 PM The Dome at Alabama State University Loveless Academic Magnet Program May 16 – 5:15 PM First Baptist Church Macon-East Montgomery Academy May 22 – 7 PM First Baptist Montgomery Marbury High School May 24 – 6:30 PM Montgomery Renaissance Hotel Montgomery Academy May 25 – 7 PM Montgomery Academy Courtyard Montgomery Catholic May 23 – 7 PM Montgomery Catholic Football Field Prattville High School May 25 – 7 PM The Dome at Alabama State University Saint James School May 22 – 6 PM Saint James Gymnasium Stanhope Elmore High School May 22 – 7 PM The Dome at Alabama State University South Montgomery County Academy May 19 – 7 PM South Montgomery County Academy Campus
resource directory Alabama Shakespeare Festival, p. 86 334.271.5353 asf.net
Alfa - Billy Bradford, p. 91 334.277.5785
Alley Station, p. 52
Central, p. 85
Inline Lighting, p. 97
Riverbend Brewfest, p. 88
334.279.9050 inlinelighting.com
334.625.2100 funinmontgomery.com
Jack Ingram, p. 5
River Region Dermatology, p. 8
central129coosa.com 334.517.1121
334.274.4900 www.jackingrammercedes.com
Charles Anthony’s at the Pub, p. 91
Jamison Alexander Studio, p. 84
334.281.3911 charlesanthonysatthepub.com
City Grill, p. 97
334.354.4028 Joseph Salon, p. 79 334.260.9602
334.676.3366 RRDermatologyLaser.com
Rockin Jump, p. 89 334.239.2587 montgomery.rockinjump.com Shoppes at EastChase, p. 6
334.277.1077 alleystation.com
334.244.0960
Kim Box, p. 15
Arbors on Taylor, p. 80 334.386.2655 thearborsontaylor.com
334.491.0409 colorboxphotographers.com
Kynard Korner, p. 79
ASE Credit Union, p. 4
Dillard’s, p. 19
yourasecu.com
334.244.6442 dillards.com
SOL Restaurante Mexicano Montgomery Regional Airport, p. 55 & Taqueria, p. 59
A.W. Watkins, p. 87
334.491.0409 Colorbox Photographers, p. 9 kimboxphotography.com
revdrawwatkins.org
Doug’s 2, p. 90
B & B Bartending, p. 74
334.396.7120 www.dougs2.com
334.263.1681 anheuser-busch.com
Dreamland BBQ, p. 40
Bama Budweiser, p. 2
334.273.7427 dreamlandbbq.com
334.263.1681 anheuser-busch.com
Dr. Steven Mackey, p. 80
Biscuits Baseball, p. 35
334.263.1400 drstevenmackey.com
334.233.2255 biscuitsbaseball.com
Elizabeth Grace Fashions,
Blackfinn Ameripub, p. 11 334.356.7350 blackfinnameripub.com
p. 59 334.612.9836 elizabethgracefashions.com
Escapology, p. 81 Burgwin Studios, p. 45
334.281.5040 flymgm.com
334.593.8250
Montgomery Zoo, p. 84
Southern Homes & Gardens, p. 26
334.240.4900 montgomeryzoo.com
334.387.0040 SHandG.com
New Park Living, p. 99
Spa at The Renaissance, p. 12
334.215.9215 newparkliving.com
Newk’s Eatery, p. 93
334.481.5210 renaissancemontgomery.com
334.290.4955 newks.com
State Farm Breck Honea, p. 47
Orangetheory Fitness, p. 14
334.272.8423 breckhonea.com
334.409.2007 Montgomery.orangetheoryfitness.com
Pine Bar, p. 63
State Farm – Cedric Bradford, p. 75 334.262.5100 cedric@cedricbradford.com
Hampstead, p. 27
Steineker & Dillon Plastic Surgery Associates, p. 58 Denistry, p. 26
334.270.6730 hampsteadliving.com
Capital City Club, p. 13
Hello Baby, p. 28
334.834.8920 capitalmontgomery.com
hellobabyphoto.com
Herron Dermatology, p. 94 334.277.3332 herrondermatology.com RSVP MAY / JUNE 2017
334.277.4027
Escapology.com
334.244.2201
96
Simply Sow, p. 79 simplysow.com
334.239.9061 thepinebar.com
burgwinstudios.com
Candle Cabin, p. 93
334.279.6046 theshoppesateastchase.com
334.284.2800 psaom.com
334.269.8534 steineikeranddillon.com
Pure Barre, p. 83
Taylor Crossing Animal Hospital, p. 3
334.834.7790 purebarre.com/al-montgomery 334.356.5154 purebarre.com/AL-eastmontgomery
334.260.8787 taylorcrossingvet.com
The Barkery, p. 38 334.239.9255 thebarkery.dog
The Chapel at The Waters, p. 87 205.296.9757 TheChapelatTheWaters.com
The Cigar Shoppe, p. 91 334.239.7923
The Tipping Point, p. 45 334.260.9110 tippingpointhampstead.com
The Waters, p. 29 334.272.3200 thewatersal.com
Touch of Class, p. 95 334.284.2673 thewatersal.com
Trustmark, p. 83 trustmark.com
Vintage Olive, p. 82 334.260.3700 thevintageolive.com
Vintage Year, p. 49 334.819.7215 vymgm.com
Ware Jewelers, p. 100 334.386.9273 warejewelers.com Welle Studio, p. 90 334.239.8884 wearitwelle.com
Wharf Casual Seafood, p. 92 334.676.3200 WharfCasualSeafood.com
Wind Creek Casino, p. 98 windcreekmontgomery.com
MAY / JUNE 2017 RSVP 97
At Wind Creek Montgomery, we do it all. From the rehearsal dinner at Itta Bena, to the big event in our spacious Ramblin’ Hall ballroom, to lodging for your wedding party, all you have to worry about is saying “I do.” For more information please contact: sales@WindCreekMontgomery.com or call direct at (334) 567-1283.
FIND YOUR WINNING MOMENT. 1801 Eddie L. Tullis Rd. • Montgomery, AL 36117 (866)WIND-360 | WindCreekMontgomery.com © 2017 Wind Creek Hospitality
That home you’ve been looking for? It’s here.
New Park is this year’s CENTRAL SITE for the
Parade of Homes. Come see us and check out the The Greater Montgomery Home Builders Association’s
Ideal Home on
July 8& 9 and July 15 &16. SHOWCASING SIX OF THE RIVER REGION’S BEST HOME BUILDERS: w Meadows Construction w Hugh Cole Builder, Inc. w Milton Strickland Builders, Inc. w Lowder New Homes w Mathews Development Co., LLC w New Age Builders, LLC
COME VISIT US at The 2017
Home to East Montgomery 334.215.9215 | newparkliving.com | 9430 Park Crossing
Between Ray Thorington Road and Taylor Road A JIM WILSON & ASSOCIATES DEVELOPMENT