Shelby Living December 2012

SHELBY Living Deck the

halls

Rosegate Design helps locals celebrate in style

Holiday

Chic

Hair and makeup trends for winter

Fresh food at

The fragrance of

Tellini’s

gratitude December 2012 • $4.95

Stack candles offer an uplifting message

The Alabama

Rangers

December 2012 | 1

2 | ShelbyLiving.com

December 2012 | 3

FROM THE EDITOR

C

andles play an important role during this time of year.

Many Christians light candles to mark Advent, the season of preparation leading up to Christmas.

Jews also light candles during Hanukkah, which commemorates the rededication of the Holy Temple. Kinara candles, which represent the seven principles of Kwanzaa, are also lit during a week-long celebration of Kwanzaa that begins in late December.

For Shelby County resident Stephanie Lloyd, candles have a special meaning no matter the time of year.

While struggling with infertility and depression, Lloyd stacked stones to remind herself of God’s protection and blessings during life’s challenges, an act inspired by Old Testament stories.

Lloyd’s story had a happy ending.

She is now the mother of four children, but she still stacks stones as a reminder of God’s faithfulness. She created Stack, a luxury line of candles and diffusers with an inspiring message.

“I feel like God gave me the idea of making candles, the idea of lighting and remembering his message,” she said.

Whatever this season means to you, I hope you’ll take a moment to remember the blessings in your life.

I also hope you take the time to read the rest of this issue, which is packed with interesting stories.

We partnered with the lovely ladies of Morgan Ashley Salon to showcase some of the year’s hottest holiday hair and makeup trends. Check out the story on page 15 before you prepare for a holiday party.

Local food guru Nick Pihakis of Jim ‘N Nick’s fame has opened a new restaurant through his partnership, The Fresh Food Company. Tellini’s Italian offers fresh and fast pastas, pizzas and more. Learn more on page 52.

As always, please contact me if you have any questions, comments or suggestions. I hope to hear from you!

Katie McDowell, Editor

Katie.McDowell@ShelbyLiving.com ON THE COVER

Stephanie Lloyd created Stack, a line of luxury candles and diffusers.

Cover design: Amy Baldis Photography: Jon Goering Location: Greystone Cosmetic Center

SHELBY Living eDiTORiAl Katie McDowell Amy Jones Neal Wagner Christine Boatwright Mickel Ponthieux CONTRiBUTORs Lisa Phillips Laura Brookhart David Butler pRODUCTiON Daniel Holmes Jamie Sparacino Amy Baldis Jon Goering mARKeTiNG Alan Brown Thomas LaBoone Nicole Loggins Rhett McCreight Meagan Mims Diane Fant LaShan Johnson Tracy Jones ADmiNisTRATiON Tim Prince Jan Griffey Mary Jo Eskridge Annie McGilvray Hailey Dolbare Christine Roberts

Shelby Living is published monthly by Shelby County Newspapers Inc., P.O. Box 947, Columbiana, AL 35051. Shelby Living is a registered trademark. All contents herein are the sole property of Shelby County Newspapers Inc. [the Publisher]. No part of this periodical may be reproduced without written permission from the Publisher. Please address all correspondence (including but not limited to letters, story ideas and requests to reprint materials) to: Editor, Shelby Living, P.O. Box 947, Columbiana, AL 35051.

Shelby Living is mailed to select households throughout Shelby County, and a limited number of free copies are available at local businesses. Please visit Shelbyliving.com for a list of those locations.

Subscriptions are available at a rate of $12 for one year by emailing subscribe@shelbyliving.com, or calling (205) 669-3131, ext. 21.

Advertising inquiries may be made by emailing advertise@shelbyliving.com, or by calling (205) 6693131, ext. 11.

4 | ShelbyLiving.com

WHAT’S INSIDE

21

features 15 hOliDAy ChiC Find out what’s in style for this holiday season 21 The fRAGRANCe Of GRATiTUDe Local’s luxury line of candles offers an uplifting message 24 ‘Tis The seAsON TO GiVe Find the best gifts for your loved ones in local stores

December 2012 | 5

WHAT’S INSIDE

12

33 in every issue recreation 7

The simple life

8

shORT sTORies

60

shelBy spOTTeD

80

OUT & ABOUT

82

Why i lOVe shelBy COUNTy

arts & culture 10

fARmhOUse mUD Columbiana artist finds inspiration in rustic surroundings

12

The iNCOGNiTO pROJeCT Pelham artist investigates alter egos in new book

14

ReADiNG ROOm Kim Roberts shares book recommendations

6 | ShelbyLiving.com

54 home & food

30

NATURe’s sUsTAiNABle TABle Cooler weather brings out new wildlife and plants

38

RUsTiC eleGANCe Step inside Mark and Dana Gray’s sophisticated retreat in Shoal Creek

33

The COWBOy WAy Shelby County residents participate in the Alabama Rangers

48

DÉCOR AND mORe Rosegate Design keeps home looking chic throughout the year

52

The sWeeT life Couple opens gourmet scone bakery in Pelham

54

The liGhTeR siDe Of iTAliAN Tellini’s Italiano brings a fresh, new twist on tradition

58

fROm heR mOTheR’s TABle A Wilsonville woman shares a beloved family recipe

24

Check out our Christmas gift guide!

THE SIMPLE LIFE

KISS the season

“S

low down, you move too fast.

Gotta make the moment last.”

Easier said than done, right? With the holidays upon us, slowing down is pushed off until after the calendar changes, the kids are back to school and work schedules return to norLisa Phillips, owner of SimpleWorks, mal. For most people, that’s how we Simpleworksmtsp.com think and act. lisa@simpleworksmtsp.com What if today you started thinking 205.981.7733 differently? When things start to get crazy with obligations, family traditions and promises, stop and ask yourself one simple question, “How can I KISS it?” KISS stands for “Keep It Simple, Sweetie.”

Decorate. Only you know whether having 12 decorated trees in your home is overwhelming or normal. For some families, this is a must, and for some, getting one tree up and throwing some tinsel on the branches is overboard. However elaborate or minimal you are with decorating for the holidays, think ahead to when you will take everything down and write it on the calendar. Let time be the motivating factor in decorating for the holidays – both before and after the presents are opened. food. Family traditions play a huge part in the food you bake, eat and give. Ask yourself whether these traditions are still appropriate and appreciated.

“Just because we have always done it this way” is not a reason to continue if it lacks the pizzazz it once had. Make a list of all the things you want to serve, and then prioritize the dishes as ones you want to make or have someone else prepare. Delegate to a restaurant or grocery store or double-bake with a friend. You make two pies and she makes two batches of cookies, then share.

This is a time and money saver. presents. Keep your wrapping simple by using solid-color wrapping paper (or gift bags) and then personalize the ribbon to make it fun and special. By wrapping all the gifts in white paper, you can use green ribbon for grandpa, pink ribbon for grandma, etc. You can use the same wrapping paper or bag year-round and for any occasion.

Festive and simple can live together in your household this year when you learn to KISS. It’s that simple. l

Let time be the motivating factor in decorating for the holidays – both before and after the presents are opened.

December 2012 | 7

SHORT STORIES

UM launches Vallo Opoly The University of Montevallo’s game studies and design program recently released Vallo Opoly, a UM-themed board game based on Monopoly.

The game was developed by students in the program, which is overseen by Dr. Cathlena Martin.

Martin and her students held a launch party for Vallo Opoly and a UM-themed dice game in Reynolds Hall as part of the Founders’ Day events on Oct. 11.

Tyler Smith, a UM senior, helped create Vallo Opoly.

“The hardest part was deciding what two parts of campus were the most important,” he said.

Once those prestige positions were selected – College Night and Palmer Hall – the students easily filled in the other

board positions, which include “car fines,” “life raft debate” and “Carmichael Hall.”

To purchase Vallo Opoly, which costs

Chelsea student named finalist in model search Raven Whitfield has always wanted to be a model.

The 15-year-old Chelsea resident may have just gotten her big break.

Whitfield recently was named one of the five finalists in the Vera Wang Princess Model Search, a contest to identify a new face to represent Wang’s new line at Kohl’s.

Raven, who was the 2012 Miss Chelsea Teen USA and was selected to participate in Birmingham Fashion Week in February 2013, said she was surprised to be selected as a finalist.

She’s also excited by the prospect of breaking into modeling, which is something she’s wanted to do since she was a girl.

“Honestly, I love being in front of a camera,” she said. “I think it’s a lot of fun. Also, you would get to go to new places and visit new cultures. I’d like to do that as well.”

Raven and her mother, Brandy Whitfield, traveled to New York City for 8 | ShelbyLiving.com

the next stage of the competition. Raven and the other four finalists will meet Wang, tour Teen Vogue and participate in a photo shoot for the clothing line.

The overall winner will have her photo shoot appear in Teen Vogue.

—Katie mcDowell

$24.99, visit Montevallo.edu/games and click on the “Vallo Opoly” link.

—Katie mcDowell

Mary Kay awards $20k grant to King’s Home King’s Home, a women’s shelter located in Chelsea, received a $20,000 grant from The Mary Kay Foundation.

In observation of Domestic Violence Awareness Month in October, The Mary Kay Foundation awarded $20,000 grants to more than 150 domestic violence shelters across the country for a total of $3 million.

“Because of caring companies like Mary Kay, King’s Home is able to make a difference in the lives of abused moms and children,” King’s Home President Lew Burdette said.

“What a blessing to have Mary Kay partner with King’s Home’s fight against domestic violence and giving moms and women a chance to start over in life when they need it most.”

—from staff reports

People recognizes Calera teacher People magazine recently honored five teachers across the nation in its first Teacher of the Year competition, and a Calera High School teacher made the cut.

“I’m honored, overwhelmed and just in awe, I guess,” said Copes, a pre-engineering teacher at Calera High.

Copes attended an awards ceremony Oct. Copes 10 in New York City. Copes was nominated for the award by Magnolialand Entertainment last spring. Magnolialand Entertainment is the Alabama-based film company creating the documentary, “Children Changing the World,” which is based on Copes and 10 students’ trip to Honduras to deliver basic utility vehicles and fit amputees with prosthetic legs the students made from Toyota Corolla parts. Copes was contacted by People magazine in September to let him know he made “the short list,” Copes said.

Four other teachers were selected for the honor, including Arwen Imai Matthews, an introductory physics and chemistry teacher in Houston, Texas; Elizabeth Curran, a special education teacher in Newport, N.H.; Jennifer Bohn, a leadership development teacher in Orlando, Fla.; and Robert Vega, a band director in Chicago.

—Christine Boatwright

Local lacrosse players honored Two local students were honored recently for their contributions to high school lacrosse.

David Sauers, a senior at Oak Mountain High School, made the 2012 US Lacrosse Boys’ High School All-Academic list. Max Hines, who recently graduated from Spain Park High School, named a 2012 US Lacrosse Boys’ High School All-American.

During his two years on the OMHS team, Sauers has served as goalie and long stick defender. He has a 4.02 GPA and is a member of National Honor Society and Mu Alpha Theta.

He also has gone to Honduras twice on church mission trips, participated in Habitat for Humanity and played football at OMHS. Hines started on SPHS’ varsity lacrosse team for all four years of high school. He played attack and middle position during his tenure. Hines had a 3.7 GPA and was a member of the French Honor Society, Church of the Highlands Youth Group and was a peer helper.

—Katie mcDowell December 2012 | 9

ARTS & CULTURE

Farmhouse

Mud Columbiana artist finds inspiration in rustic surroundings Story and photographs by lAURA BROOKhART

CLOCKWISE FROM TOP: Farmhouse Mud offers a range of rustic pottery and decorations. Dunkin’s butterfly designs, which she has copyrighted, are made of stoneware clay with paper pulp added. “When they are fired the paper pulp burns off and leaves a beehive effect—channels of nothingness—so they are very lightweight.” Dunkin won first place in 3D mixed media in the recent SCAC Member Exhibit for her sculpture “Totem.” An avid rider, Dunkin also creates horses as art.

10 | ShelbyLiving.com

S

culptor and clay artist Stephanie Dunkin calls her business Farmhouse Mud – mud being another word for clay.

“My inspiration comes from the rustic country charm of southern Shelby County where I live,” she said. “I absolutely love this way of life, and I seem to have developed a special awareness while living here.”

Dunkin’s talent for detailed observation and drawing was discovered in grade school, and with her parents’ support she was enrolled in art classes. After securing her college degree in commercial art, Dunkin co-founded an advertising agency and worked as a magazine editor for about 20 years.

She notes her life was spent in rigid businesses tied to deadlines, and that her publishing job was undermining her health. “When it ended, I realized that God was doing for me what I could not do for myself,” she said.

An on-and-off resident of the Birmingham area since 1993, she moved to Columbiana in 2006 and enrolled in wheelthrowing clay classes at Shelby County Arts Council and also began to experiment with hand building.

While horseback riding in the woods, Dunkin came upon what she calls a ‘skeleton gate’ that was to generate the idea for her Old Farm Gate Series that is sold on Etsy.

“The gate hinges were rope. The wooden slats were thin and weathered. I thought it was just the most beautiful thing,” she said.

She created themed signs to hang on the old farm gate in celebration of birthdays, Valentine’s Day, Easter, Fourth of July, Halloween, Thanksgiving, Christmas and the New Year.

“Here in Columbiana, people just decorate all the time, so these are influenced by that charming trait of our town,” Dunkin said.

Dunkin said the rustic farm and country charm motif is her trademark and it’s very admired by clients all over the world – she even has clients from Israel. “It seems to especially appeal to people who dream of spending time in the country,” she said.

Early on in her new-found love of hand building in clay, she felt trapped in overworking her designs, and her sculptures became too detailed. She shared, “It was such a frustrating time for me filled with prayers for a release from perfectionism.”

Prayers are answered in all sorts of ways, and she soon found her fractured wrist in a cast due to a horse accident. With her movements somewhat restricted, Dunkin decided to practice at loose creations by slapping and tearing clay into very large square discs and round beads, and then combining them into stacks to make a totem.

“My first totem was stacked on a copper pipe, topped with a bird finial and meant to be an outdoor sculpture. It was made to remind me to lighten up,” Dunkin observed.

Dunkin will launch a clothing line of romantic, vintage upcycled garments at the fourth annual SCAC Artist Market on Dec. 1. Her work may also be seen at Farmhousemud. etsy.com. l December 2012 | 11

ARTS & CULTURE

The

Incognito

Project

Pelham artist investigates alter egos in new book

Story by KATie mCDOWell Photographs by TeRRy sTRiCKlAND

O

n a July day in 2010, Terry Strickland’s home was overrun with characters.

Knights, detectives, Greek goddesses and cowboys visited her Pelham home for a party that marked the beginning of a two-and-a-half year journey. The characters, all 25 of them, were Strickland’s friends and family, who were participating in her newest project – a series of paintings that examined people’s alter egos.

“The idea is that we all have some kind of secret self,” Strickland said. “If you weren’t living this life, what kind of life would you be living?”

What was originally planned as an art project evolved into a book – “The Incognito Project.” The book features the 25 paintings, but it also includes behind-thescenes photos, famous quotations about 12 | ShelbyLiving.com

myths and alter egos and commentary from Strickland.

The book was released this fall, and Strickland celebrated with a one-day exhibit of the 25 paintings at the Art Folk Gallery in Birmingham on Nov. 3.

The exhibit was the culmination of several years of work. Strickland, a former graphic illustrator who became a full-time artist in 2005, first came up with the idea in 2008. One of the attractions of the project was that it allowed the models to contribute to the process.

“What I’ve noticed over the years is my models really enjoy the photo shoots,” she said. “I guess I wanted to have that in a planned way. That is why I invited people to be collaborators in the photos and the costumes in the very beginning.”

She worked with the models, including her husband, their two grown children and their daughter-in-law, to develop their alter egos. While some participants had an idea

immediately, others needed some direction.

She borrowed many of the costumes from Samford University’s theater department. Her favorites included a knight’s costume – dented and rusted as if it had actually been through battle – and a lion tamer’s outfit that was adapted from a “Beauty and the Beast” production.

Although she liked the spontaneity that the models brought to the project, Strickland planned the photo shoots to the last detail.

“I designed little thumbnails of how I wanted the models posed and the light for each one,” she said.

The models were invited to a party at Strickland’s studio in her Pelham home.

“I thought it would be fun for everybody to see each other’s egos,” she said.

From noon to 7:30 p.m., Strickland photographed the models. The party was only the beginning of her work. Following it, she steadily painted the photographs, juggling other projects and finishing the

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May 2012

final painting of “The Incognito Project” in mid-September.

The idea for the book came soon after the photo shoot. The Stricklands, who combined have experience in writing, illustrating and art, decided to form a publishing company – Matter Deep Publishing. The company was incorporated in July 2011. “’The Incognito Project” planted the seed for Matter Deep Publishing,” Strickland said.

The company used Kickstarter – a website that raises funds for creative projects – to raise the money to publish the book. The final product is a 128-page, hardcover book with an introduction

by Graham C. Beottcher, the American art curator at the Birmingham Museum of Art. “The (cover of) the book is like a detective file,” Strickland said.

The paintings from “The Incognito Project” fit into Strickland’s style. She puts equal emphasis on concept and technique and prefers trompe l’oeil style, which makes objects appear to be threedimensional.

“I consider myself a contemporary realist,” she said. “I like my work to look like an old master painting, but I like for it to have a contemporary (feel).”

“The Incognito Project” costs $60 and can be ordered by emailing Strickland at terrystr@terrystricklandart.com. For more information, visit TerryStricklandArt.Blogspot.com. l

Welcome to the good life. Welcome to Shelby Living!

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CLOCKWISE FROM FAR LEFT: Strickland’s self-portrait appears on the cover of the book. The Stake-Out, “The Incognito Project,” 16x16, oil on panel.

Athena, “The Incognito Project,” 20x16, oil on panel. Strickland’s son Kyle wore a suit of armor for his portrait. Against a Sea of Troubles, “The Incognito Project,” 20x16, oil on panel.

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December 2012 | 13

ARTS & CULTURE

Reading Room: Kim Roberts

K

Photograph by JON GOeRiNG

im Roberts is the assistant director at Harrison Regional Library, which is the headquarters for Shelby County’s library system. Roberts has a bachelor’s degree in history from the University of Montevallo and master’s degree in library science from University of Alabama. She lives in Alabaster with her husband and their two cats.

What drew you to shelby County?

I’ve lived in Shelby County since my family moved here in 1997. I grew up, went to school and got married here. It’s home and where I plan to raise my future family.

Why do you love to read?

Reading is an escape for me. If I’ve had a bad day or feel overwhelmed, then I just pick up a book and transplant myself into someone else’s drama for a while knowing that everything will be there waiting for me once I resurface.

What’s the first book you remember loving?

The first book I remember reading on my own and really enjoying was “A Wrinkle in Time” by Madeleine

L’Engle. I wouldn’t have read it save a recommendation from my sixth grade teacher. It opened the sci-fi/fantasy genre to me and introduced me to series fiction.

What are your favorite types of books?

I prefer urban fantasy, but will settle for just about any mystery or suspense novel.

I occasionally like a good biography or history and have recently begun reading Southern literature as well.

Why did you decide to pursue a literary career?

I have always liked to help people, and I believe that the written word has power.

Working for the library has allowed me to help people as well as preserve access to all forms of information to all people.

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Kim’s Reading Recommendations: An invisible Thread by schroff and Tresniowski An 11-year-old beggar on a New York street stops a sales executive and she agrees to take him to lunch and thus begins an ongoing friendship.

They meet for dinner every week and learn about each others’ lives.

As their friendship grows closer, they depend on each other more and more – all from her single act of kindness.

The Girl Who Chased the moon by sarah Addison Allen After her mother dies, Emily moves to the small town of Mullaby, N.C. to live with a grandfather she’s never known.

She finds herself in the middle of a family feud and her mother’s past to be a mystery.

In this town full of misfits Emily discovers many curious things, including her grandfather is a small giant, her wallpaper changes with her mood and unexplained lights appear in her backyard.

chic

Holiday

Bold

red lips, smoky

eyes

and

elegant

updos Find out what’s in style for this holiday season.

Story by KATie mCDOWell Photographs by JON GOeRiNG Hair and makeup by mORGAN Ashley sAlON Special thanks to shelley sUmNeR, emily hURsT, JessiCA TUCKeR, hAley TAylOR, JOANNA BAlleNTiNe, mOlly sTilley AND BeTh RUssell December 2012 | 15

Subtle

Sophistication Burgundy eyes are big for the holidays and make a stunning standout. Morgan Ashley stylists kept the rest of Katelyn Welch’s makeup subtle with muted lips and a fresh, glowing complexion. Loose curls are also in style and can be achieved by those with naturally curly or straight hair with the right products.

Vintage

glamour

The 1930s served as inspiration for Maegan Pitt’s look. Pitt’s hair is naturally chest-length, but Morgan Ashley stylists pinned it under for a new look. The hair looks both classic and modern, thanks to the asymmetrical length. The stylists stuck to the vintage look with a dramatic eye and dark lip.

16 | ShelbyLiving.com

A striking

Statement Bright red lips and braids are still in style for the holidays.

Bright red lips keep smiles looking bright and feel festive for the holidays. Morgan Ashley stylists kept the rest of Madeline Anderson’s makeup low-key, save for a sweep of black eyeliner for added drama. Madeline’s updo looks both funky and polished.

The braid can be swapped for a headband if you want to incorporate a little sparkle into your look.

December 2012 | 17

Fun and

Funky

DMD

This swept-back bun is an easy and youthful way to style your hair for a party. Morgan Ashley stylists simply tied Sunny Jones’ hair in a knot and used lots of hairspray to keep it in place. This look is perfect to show off high cheekbones and fun earrings. An orange-red lip is very trendy this season and is sure to make a statement.

18 | ShelbyLiving.com

Easy

Elegance Kim Hull’s naturally curly hair and classic profile served as the inspiration for this elegant look. The long, loose curls are easy for anyone with curly hair to achieve. Morgan Ashley stylists used a pink lip and dark eyeliner to highlight Kim’s porcelain complexion and green eyes.

2

December 2012 | 19

20 | ShelbyLiving.com

Highland Lakes resident Stephanie Lloyd created Stack, a line of luxury candles and diffusers that are available in a wide range of scents.

The

fragrance of

gratitude Local’s luxury line of candles offers an uplifting message

Story by KATie mCDOWell Photography by AllisON leWis & JON GOeRiNG

F

or years, the simple act of stacking stones has offered Stephanie Lloyd comfort and courage during difficult times in her life.

The act was inspired by Old Testament stories that told of the Israelites building altars of stones to serve as a reminder of God’s presence during life’s challenges.

In the fall of 2011, Lloyd decided share that message with others. She created Stack, a line of luxury candles and diffusers with an uplifting message. The candles

are meant to represent an act of gratitude – of remembering God’s protection and blessings during struggles.

“The name came from the Old Testament … how God told the Israelites to stack stones and remember what he’d done in the past and have hope for the future,” she said.

She uses the idea to remind her of her faith in God, as her journey through her 20s and early 30s were difficult. After meeting her husband, Mark, in Birmingham, the two married in their late 20s. They hoped to begin a family immediately, but they struggled with infertility for years, including three miscarriages.

“It was a really hard season of life,” said Stephanie, who was also diagnosed with clinical depression.

The Lloyds decided to adopt, and had just finished the approval process when they discovered Stephanie was pregnant again. Their first child was born in 2003 and three more children followed over the next three years.

“We were like a walking Bible story,” Stephanie said.

When their youngest daughter, Margaret, was 7 months old, Stephanie realized her child had hearing problems.

Diagnosed as profoundly deaf, Margaret, who is now 4, can hear and talk with the December 2012 | 21

22 | ShelbyLiving.com

help of cochlear implants.

Throughout her struggles, Stephanie relied on stacking stones to remind her of God’s presence.

Over the last few years, Stephanie began to look for a way to share the idea with others.

“I really want to share this message,” she said. “I feel like God gave me the idea of making candles, the idea of lighting and remembering his message.”

Stephanie said she also really likes candles – especially expensive candles made with luxury oils. She wanted to offer a high-quality candle at an affordable price.

She located a candlemaker in Alabama, but created the label and packaging herself.

“I wanted something really simple but classic,” she said.

She also chooses the fragrances, and prefers “clean-smelling” candles.

The 25 fragrances include Cashmere, a blend of lavender, cedarwood, coffee, vanilla and patchouli; Seagrove, a blend of

pomegranate, patchouli, sandalwood and vanilla musk; and Fireside, a blend of grey birch, oakmoss and smokey mesquite.

Large candles cost $24 and diffusers $45.

The products are available online and at several local stores, including Plain Jane, Lamb’s Ear and Village Dermatology.

Stack products are now available at 20 boutiques throughout the Southeast, including Atlanta and Charleston.

Stephanie said she often receives emails from customers who have related to Stack’s message. Stephanie said that contact gives her a way to stay focused when the business aspect feels overwhelming. While she would love to see the business continue to grow, she considers Stack her “ministry” and never wants to lose sight of the message.

“I want it to be manageable,” she said.

“The story is my passion. I want it to be about that, even if I have 100 stores.”

For more information, visit Stackcandles.com. l

FAR LEFT: Stephanie also created Stack’s logo and packaging. LEFT: Stephanie and Mark Lloyd have four children, Katherine, Margaret, Anna Caroline and William.

December 2012 | 23

Tis’ the

season to give Find the best gifts for your loved ones in local stores

For the

This quirky knit hat will keep him warm all winter. The Blueberry Hat, $26.99, Plain Jane.

kids

Help your child learn to save early with this colorful elephant “piggy” bank.

Piggy bank, $12.95, J. Allen’s.

Whether it’s a pig, mouse or lion, the Wheely Bug offers a fun mode of transportation for toddlers. Wheely Bugs, $60$80, Favorite Laundry, 100 Croft Street, Birmingham.

24 | ShelbyLiving.com

Your child can share her park adventures and learn how to protect the environment with her cuddly Picnic Pal. Apple Park Picnic Pal, $36, Favorite Laundry.

These Sidekick lunch totes by Stephen Joseph are a fun way to store meals, and proceeds from sales are donated to children’s non-profits. Stephen Joseph lunch tote, $16.99, Plain Jane Children and Gift Shop, 270 Doug Baker Boulevard, #600, Birmingham.

Who’s afraid of the dark? Kids with these friendly flashlights will sleep with ease.

Rechargeable flashlights, $7.95, J. Allen’s.

Buy your child a pair of Tom’s and the company will give a pair of shoes to another child in need.

Tom’s Navy Cord, and Pink Canvas, $29 each, Alabama Outdoors.

December 2012 | 25

For

her

The decorative studs add a bit of toughness to these vibrant blue suede flats. Flats, $96, Agatha Ainsley at Chic Boutique.

These reversible bracelets are fun and funky.

Reversible bracelets, $19.99, Plain Jane.

This scarf is incredibly soft and is sure to brighten up any outfit. Scarf, $17.95, J. Allen’s.

These funky purses will add personality to any outfit.

Large handbag, $129, and mini bag, $79, Chic Boutique.

Cocktail rings are a perfect gift for your favorite friends. Rings, $28-$38, Chic Boutique, 270 Doug Baker Boulevard, #300, Birmingham.

26 | ShelbyLiving.com

Wow your sweetheart with this stunning diamond pendant.

Diamond pendant, $3,495, Paul’s Diamond Center.

This Hobo clutch can be used on its own or as a wallet.

Hobo clutch, $178, J. Allen’s, 37 Buck Creek Plaza, Alabaster.

These quirky slippers will keep her toes warm throughout the winter. Slippers, $26.99 each, Plain Jane.

Services

Plumbing • Heating • Cooling

December 2012 | 27

For The iPhone 5 is thinner, lighter and faster and guaranteed to make him smile on Christmas day. iPhone 5, $799, Best Buy, 4610 U.S. 280, Birmingham.

him

This kit is good for everything – cooking, cleaning, eating and drinking – and it stores easily for transport.

Pinnacle Dualist, $64.95, Alabama Outdoors.

This lightweight jacket is insulated and works as a middle or outer layer depending on the weather.

Arc’Teryx Atom LT Jacket, $199, Alabama Outdoors.

Whether he’s backpacking or in the backyard, this hammock with a bug net will ensure he can relax in peace. Eno Guardian Bug Net Hammock, $54.99, Alabama Outdoors.

28 | ShelbyLiving.com

This trucker-style hat spreads a great message. Roger That hat, $29, Alabama Outdoors.

This sleek Citizen watch tells the time and date.

Citizen Eco-Drive Gents watch, $450, Paul’s Diamond Center, 300 Colonial Park Promenade, #300, Alabaster.

He’ll be ready to check out Shelby County’s new disc golf park with his own discs. Discs, $9.99 each, Alabama Outdoors, 108 Inverness Plaza, Birmingham.

December 2012 | 29

THE WILD SIDE

Nature’s

sustainable Cooler weather brings out new wildlife and plants

table Story and photographs by DAViD BUTleR

CLOCKWISE FROM TOP LEFT: The bright purple beautyberry ends up as sustenance for many birds in Alabama. Yellowbellied sapsuckers migrate to the area each winter.

Approximately 8 percent of robins are albino. Nandina leaves are red before turning to green, and its red berries are toxic to humans. PAGE 29: The American Strawberry bush produces a seed pod that opens up to display bright red berries, which has led some to nickname it “hearts-a-bustin” or “bursting heart.”

30 | ShelbyLiving.com

M

ost anyone who has spent time outdoors on a cool fall day in the South can appreciate the beautiful colors that emerge as the leaves gradually change from green to bright shades of orange, red and brown.

But as cooling temperatures settle over Alabama, both permanent residents and

seasonal birds must find an emerging collection of plants to satisfy hungry appetites and Shelby County is home to an interesting collection.

Year-round residents, like the American Robin (Turdus migratorius), supplement their typical summertime diet of fruits, worms and insects with some of the colorful berries that speckle the browning

landscape. While the robin can be found throughout Alabama, as the leaves begin to drop more opportunities arise to see things that might be missed in the summer months. “I had never seen an albino robin before,� says Donna Kursden. “But this year, as it started cooling off, I noticed this white bird every day in the yard foraging for

December 2012 | 31

berries. It took me a minute to realize what it was. At first, I thought I was seeing a bird I had never seen before, but when I got closer, I realized it was an ordinary robin, just a much different color.”

According to scientists, there are more albino robins than any other species of wild bird, estimating that more than 8 percent of all albino birds in North America are robins.

Another bird that makes Shelby County home is the Yellow-bellied Sapsucker (Sphyrapicus varius), which finds its way to the area during a winter migration from the northernmost United States and Canada.

The sapsucker typically pecks holes in the trunks of trees to feed on the sap that seeps out and the insects that get stuck there. But they also feed on fruits and berries.

These birds all need to eat, and Shelby County is home to many colorful and flavorful berries.

One plant that is attractive to birds is the American Beautyberry (Callicarpa

32 | ShelbyLiving.com

americana). Its bright purple berries make it an easy target for birds, which also makes it difficult to eradicate for those gardeners who don’t wish to see it spread.

Others, however, find it attractive and enjoy seeing the purple berries start to emerge.

“We didn’t know anything about it at first,” said Jason Lowell, a Calera resident.

“We have really tried to find some unique plants that are native, and we like those that have berries because they attract all kinds of birds. One of my favorites is the American strawberry bush, because it has such a unique berry.”

The American strawberry bush (Euonymus americanus), produces a seed pod that opens up to display bright red berries, which has led some to nickname it “hearts-a-bustin” or “bursting heart.”

While the plant is attractive to both birds and deer, humans have also used the plant as a natural diuretic and to treat a cramped stomach.

Nandina (Nandina domestica) is another berry-producing bush, and its prevalence

across the state is a testament to how important the berries are in the fall.

In early spring, Nandina leaves are red before turning to green, making the plant a colorful addition for landscapers, but those berries, which are toxic to humans, are what enable it to spread so quickly through many wooded areas.

“Nandina is considered an invasive species in most states in the South,” Lowell said. “We try to keep it out of our yard, but the berries start showing up in the fall and sometimes last all through the winter, so birds feast on them when there isn’t much else to eat.”

So as winter rolls into Alabama, keep an eye out for some of the many unique and colorful plants and berries that attract birds from near and far and help sustain them through the colder months.

“Until I started to pay attention, I had no idea about some of the things that pop up in the fall,” said Lowell. “I always look forward to seeing the berries come back because I know the winter birds aren’t far behind.” l

RECREATION

The

cowboy way

Story by NeAl WAGNeR Photographs by JON GOeRiNG

O

TOP: Members of The Alabama Rangers chat together before a day of shooting at Brierfield Ironworks Park. ABOVE: The Alabama Rangers wear historically accurate cowboy attire and shoot guns made before 1897 or replicas of those firearms.

n one weekend a month, a portion of Brierfield Ironworks Park is transformed into a bustling scene from a bygone American era. Men wearing leather gun holsters, suspenders and cowboy hats wield guns used in the 1800s as they take turns acting out scenarios usually seen in classic Wild West films.

The Alabama Rangers, who are affiliated with the nationwide Single Action Shooting Society, have been gathering at the ironworks park every second weekend of the month for nearly 20 years.

During their shooting weekends, the Rangers,

December 2012 | 33

Jimmy “Cahawba Kid� Kendrick shares a laugh during a morning shooting session.

34 | ShelbyLiving.com

including many Shelby County residents, don historically accurate cowboy attire, and are allowed to shoot singleaction pistols, lever or pump-action rifles and shotguns made before 1897 — or replicas of those firearms.

“It’s part of my life. It’s something I enjoy doing,” said Alabama Rangers member Phil Hurst, who owns the Blue Phrog Gallery in Montevallo. “It’s the way life used to be.

“Back then, nobody really lived to be 67 like I am today,” Hurst added. “There’s the old saying that ‘God created man and Sam Colt made them equal.’”

On competition days, the organization typically sets up four shooting stations incorporating cowboy-themed items such as a stagecoach and a portable replica of an outhouse.

Each club member then takes turns completing timed shooting challenges.

“We will usually have two pistol stations, a rifle station and a shotgun station,” Hurst said. “You have to shoot targets in order with that specific weapon. If you shoot the wrong target, it’s a five-second penalty.”

The shooters are then ranked based on the amount of time it took them to complete the challenge. In addition to using historic props, each challenge also incorporates a unique story “just to make it fun,” said Alabama Rangers President Jimmy Kendrick, a Calera resident.

“In one scenario, you may be a cattle rustler, another one may have you shooting your way out of a saloon,” Kendrick said. “My favorites are the scenarios where you get to be the good guy.”

Alabama Rangers member Ronny Whitley said the scenarios can sometimes get complex. To recreate a saloon shootout, some stations have even incorporated special glasses designed to make vision blurry.

“We’ve done a scenario where you have to come out of an outhouse and shoot...a clay bird,” Whitley said. “We’ve done stations where you shoot a target and then someone throws an egg into the air for you to shoot.”

Every member of the club also has a nickname — usually one carrying a historic meaning.

“Everybody has an alias. If you come out to shoot and you don’t have one, you’re going to get one and you’re not going to like it,” Hurst said with a laugh.

Hurst’s nickname is “Dead Horse,” which is a reference to Dead Horse Point State Park in Moab, Utah.

“Originally, the Indians would use (Dead Horse Point) to corral horses. They would take what they needed, and just left the rest out there,” Hurst said. “Plus, you can’t beat a dead horse.”

Kendrick’s nickname, “Cahawba Kid,” came from a story tied to Alabama’s first permanent state capital.

“The story is that the city of Cahawba flooded in about 1845 or so, and a mother placed her son in a reed basket and sent him floating down the river,” Kendrick said. “The boy was then recovered in Selma, and nobody knew his name, so they just called him the Cahawba kid.

Blue Phrog Gallery

December 2012 | 35

36 | ShelbyLiving.com

“That name just struck me, because of the history behind it,” Kendrick added.

Most of the shooters own several real and replica cowboy firearms, such as an 1887 Winchester pump-action shotgun and an 1858 Remington pistol.

The guns shoot everything from .45110 bullets to 12-gauge shotgun loads.

“Almost everyone reloads their own ammunition. When you shoot as much as we do, you have to,” Hurst said with a laugh. “You have to be super cautious when you do that. You don’t want to load it too high, and you don’t want to have a squib (where the ammunition charge is too weak and causes the bullet to become stuck in the gun barrel).”

The group also takes many safety precautions on its shooting days. Guns are loaded at one table while a safety officer watches, are shot at a station and then unloaded at a different table.

“Our biggest thing is safety. You’ve got all these people running around with real guns and real bullets,” Hurst said.

Although the group takes its competition and safety aspects seriously, the club members agreed participating in the Alabama Rangers is mostly about fun.

“It’s reliving history, to an extent,” Kendrick said. “You’re experiencing how things used to be.”

“I grew up playing cowboys all my life,” Whitley said. “I’ve always been into this kind of thing.” l PAGE 36-CLOCKWISE FROM TOP: Jimmy “Cahawba Kid” Kendrick and Glen “BB” Hall judge Lois “Parlor House Pearl” Stradtman’s round. Phil “Dead Horse” Hurst shoots through one of the morning session’s scenarios. “Parlor House Pearl” Stradtman is geared up for a morning of shooting.

Most gun carts are homemade with stylistic choices made by each individual Ranger.

December 2012 | 37

HOME & FOOD

Elegance Rustic

Step inside Mark and Dana Gray’s sophisticated retreat in Shoal Creek Story by KATie mCDOWell Photographs by JON GOeRiNG

38 | ShelbyLiving.com

OPPOSITE: A brilliant chandelier lights up Mark and Dana Gray’s holiday table in the dining room.

THIS PAGE: Johnson Brothers Wild Turkey china surrounds a wooden wall clock.

December 2012 | 39

D

ana and Mark Gray’s Shoal Creek home is a study in contrasts.

A 17th century French tapestry and antler candelabras. Tartan upholstered chairs and porcelain china.

Even their dogs – two shaggy, black 40 | ShelbyLiving.com

Newfoundlands named Piper and Macallan – are a seeming contradiction.

Their enormous size belies a sweet temperament.

Dana describes her style as “rustic elegance,” and the theme is carried throughout the two-story home.

“I like the juxtaposition of a crystal chandelier with an old wooden table,” she said.

The Grays were already settled in Shoal Creek in 2006 when they bought their current two-story home from David and Helen Rozendale, who also lived in the

PAGE 40: A grouping of Adirondack chairs set against the home’s cedar shingle exterior creates a classic scene. CLOCKWISE FROM TOP LEFT: A pinecone wreath hangs from a green gingham ribbon in the wine room.

Sprigs of greenery are an understated and elegant nod to the holiday season. Dana created a rustic yet festive table with antler candelabras, gold ornaments and plenty of greenery.

December 2012 | 41

neighborhood.

The Grays were looking at lots to build a home, when they discovered that the Rozendales were looking for a smaller home. The couples decided to trade homes.

“This was the house in which they raised their children,” Dana said. “This was based on a house that belonged to (Helen’s) grandmother.”

That house is known as “East Hill,” and it still stands where it was built in 1859 in Edgefield, S.C. The early Victorian abode was one-story and symmetrical with wide openings between the rooms, high ceilings and a front porch the length of the house.

Dana and Mark loved the history of the home, as well as the symmetry of the design.

“We wanted to keep the integrity of the house structurally,” Mark said.

However, they did want to update some aspects of the house, and they recruited architect Ed Bailey, who designed the Shoal Creek clubhouse and was semiretired at the time, to help them. Some of the changes included opening up the rooms, expanding the master bedroom, adding separate his-and-hers master bathrooms and closets, renovating the kitchen and adding a carriage house for guests.

“We actually lived in the original house and built the guest house, then moved up there and renovated the main house,” Mark said. “We were on property the entire time, which was nice.”

The home opens into a foyer that is flanked by a cigar room – no smoking allowed! – and the dining room and leads into the great room.

The great room features one of the home’s two double-sided fireplaces. A tiger-print ottoman provides a modern element paired with a plush sofa and an antique painting above the fireplace.

The great room leads into the kitchen, where, like many families, the Grays spend much of their time. The alabaster kitchen features marble counters, a subway tile backsplash and a planked white ceiling. Elaborate chandeliers and stainless steel appliances balance the airy 42 | ShelbyLiving.com

PAGE 42: The all-white kitchen feels fresh with its marble counters, white tile backsplash and planked ceilings.

CLOCKWISE FROM TOP LEFT: Helen and David Rozendale built the home and modeled it after an 1859 Victorian home that belonged to Helen’s grandmother. A 17th-century French tapestry hangs in the living room and is one of Dana’s favorite pieces in the house. An animal-print ottoman provides a modern and funky juxtaposition against the rustic décor.

December 2012 | 43

lightness. The real centerpiece of the kitchen is the French La Cornue double oven.

The kitchen leads into the wine room, which is separated from the dining room by another double-sided fireplace.

Next is the living room, where a stunning and massive 17th-century French tapestry demands attention.

“It’s called wallpaper,” she said. “They used it in office buildings instead of having a window.”

She found the tapestry at the Round Top Antiques Show in Texas. Three potential buyers had bid on the tapestry when a downpour caused the vendors to close down briefly. Dana caught only a glimpse of the tapestry as the vendors unrolled it following the storm, but she bid and paid for it immediately. It took significant work to restore and frame the tapestry, but she said it was well worth the effort.

44 | ShelbyLiving.com

“It is my very favorite piece in the house,” she said.

The master bedroom and laundry room are also located on the ground floor, while several guest bedrooms and Dana’s office are located on the second floor.

Guests typically stay in the carriage house, which includes a living area, bedroom and kitchen. Decorated in a more natural style, the carriage house features several bear pelts and antlers – all hunted by neighbors.

The renovation of their home was the jumping point for Dana’s new career as an interior design consultant. She worked with Dana Holcombe on the renovation and learned a few tricks of the trade along the way.

“I had so much fun,” Dana said. “It was one of the reasons I started my business. She’s the one who inspired me, and I learned so much from her.”

Prior to her design career, Dana had

PAGE 44: The carriage house is decorated in a slightly more casual style with animal pelts and antlers found in several rooms. THIS PAGE: A bench hides in the lush greenery.

December 2012 | 45

worked in pharmaceutical sales. Mark works as a dentist, and the two met at school at UAB. In addition to interior design, Dana creates bespoke English gardens. Nature’s Edge, LLC is responsible for the Grays’ lush landscape, but Dana did put in a small garden on the property.

“It’s not quite an English garden,” she said. “It’s mostly filled with conifers, but I have a passion for both.”

The conifers also feature in a beloved Christmas tradition.

“We started a new tradition a couple of years ago where we buy live conifers,” she said. “It’s a tradition to bring the tree in Christmas Eve and all decorate it together.”

After the holidays, they plant the tree in their yard.

The holidays are guaranteed to see the Grays’ house filled. Friends and family often visit, including Mark’s brother and sister-in-law, who also live in Shoal Creek.

Whether they’re staying overnight or just dropping in, the Grays said they welcome all visitors.

“We built this house so we can have big gatherings,” Dana said. l

46 | ShelbyLiving.com

TOP LEFT: A coal basket holds a small fire in one of two double-sided fireplaces.

ABOVE: The French La Cornue double oven is the centerpiece of the kitchen.

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December 2012 | 47

DĂŠcor and

more Rosegate Design keeps homes looking chic throughout the year Story by Katie mcdowell Photographs by Jon Goering

48 | ShelbyLiving.com

PAGE 48: Abby Leib and Nancy Norris help customers with design and decorating at Rosegate Design. CLOCKWISE FROM TOP LEFT: Decorative reindeer hang from a chandelier. A metal calendar counts down the days to Christmas. Rosegate Design created these custom frosted wreaths. Multicolored Christmas ornaments decorate the store.

I

t’s a late October afternoon, but Rosegate Design is ready for Christmas.

Decorated Christmas trees appear in every corner, wreaths hang on walls and Santas, reindeer and snowmen are stuffed into every nook and cranny.

Shoppers greet each other while “Have a Holly Jolly Christmas” plays in the background during a holiday open house.

Rosegate Design offers a range of services — window treatments, upholstery, design consultation, floral arrangements — throughout the year, but Christmas, and the months leading up to the holiday, are the busiest.

“At Christmas, the store is packed,” owner Nancy Norris said.

In addition to the open house and retail services, Norris and Abby Leib, who was recently made a partner in the company, provide consultations both at the store or in a client’s home.

While some homeowners simply want help re-imagining their decorations in a new way, others want to incorporate some of Rosegate Design’s products.

When it comes to smart holiday decorating, Norris and Leib suggest nixing the clutter.

“I’d much rather somebody have something large and pretty, rather than lots of little things,” Norris said.

They said to decorate the focal points of the house, such as the staircase, fireplace mantle, dining room table,

buffet and, of course, the Christmas tree.

Another tip is to update small items that make a big impact, such as bows used for wreaths or tree toppers.

“If it’s been more than a couple of years, (the bow) needs to be changed,” Norris said.

This year, they said popular decorating trends include rustic, funky and elegant.

While themed decorating is fun for Christmas and Thanksgiving, the holidays are also a popular time for overall updates to a home.

“Any holiday, people will decide they want to reupholster furniture or do a new window hanging because they’re having company,” Norris said.

When Rosegate Design opened in 1999, December 2012 | 49

Norris used red and green ribbons to transform a wreath into a chandelier.

it was located in Southside in Birmingham. The store relocated to Highway 280 for several years before moving into its current spot on Highway 119 four years ago.

“We thought of everything you would need in your home and tried to put all of that together,” Norris said of the company’s founding. “We started with 1,000 bolts of fabric, which is what we have now. Then, we started with the floral end of it, where we make custom floral arrangements. We also had a couple of lines of furniture.”

Norris said they have a workshop and an upholsterer to create window treatments and furniture using their fabrics.

Rosegate offers several options for interior design. In some cases, they are part of the design process from beginning to end for a new home. In other cases, they will update a single room using the furniture and décor the owner already has.

“In a day, we may go measure a client for window treatments,” Norris said. “We may go help them pick out a paint color. We may help them rearrange their room or their house.”

Norris, who studied at the Southern Institute of Design, described her own style as eclectic, but she and Leib are comfortable with all styles.

The key, she said, is knowing their clients’ style.

“I would say that is the biggest advantage that Abby and I have,” she said. “We both love people. We spend a lot of time with our customers.”

Rosegate Design is located at 6801 Cahaba Valley Road in Birmingham. For more information, visit Therosegate.com or call 205-980-5014. l 50 | ShelbyLiving.com

December 2012 | 51

HOME & FOOD

The sweet life Couple opens gourmet scone bakery in Pelham

Story by KATie mCDOWell Photographs by JON GOeRiNG

T

he Highland Gourmet Scone Company has come full circle.

Decades ago, the scones were sold in Bonnie Bailey’s deli and bakery, known as Highland Gourmet, on Highland Avenue in Birmingham.

Eventually, the scone production was spun off into a separate business and sold to another family, who operated it as a shipping-only business.

Nine years ago, the company was sold again, this time to Shelby County residents Connie and Mark Wallace, who continued to ship the scones to clients across the country.

Now, the Wallaces have opened a new storefront in Pelham, and they’re looking forward to introducing a new generation 52 | ShelbyLiving.com

to their flavorful gourmet scones.

First, however, they may have to educate their new clients. “A lot of people ask me, ‘What are scones?’” Connie said.

Not quite cookie, biscuit or shortbread, the scone originated in Great Britain, where it is typically served with tea.

“Ours are gourmet scones,” Connie said. “They’re sweeter and richer than your traditional scones.”

The Wallaces offer four flavors of scones: lemon-blueberry, cherryamaretto, hazel crème chocolate chip and the “original.” The original, also known as golden raisin, is made with Bailey’s recipe, which the Wallaces bought along with the “Highland Gourmet” name.

Before the new bakery opened,

Highland Gourmet scones could only be bought in bulk in the company’s trademark golden tins of either 12 or six scones. While the tins are still available by mail or in the store, the bakery now offers individual scones to customers who visit the store.

“We think it’ll be a neat thing to have this new aspect, when you don’t have to buy a whole tin,” Connie said.

Wee-bites, bite-sized scones in all four flavors, are another new offering. Selfserve coffee and tea will also be available, and the Wallaces hope to introduce new flavors of scones in the future.

Connie said the scones aren’t hard to make, but a lot of effort goes into the business. The Wallaces mix, mold

alabaster pediatric dentistry

and bake all of their scones before individually wrapping and packing the treats into tins.

“It’s very labor-intensive,” Connie said. “We’re really particular about the ingredients and we use all-natural things.”

The Wallaces decided to buy the company after returning to the Birmingham area from Ireland, where they worked with a ministry for three years. Owning a scone company seemed like a providential way to stay connected with Great Britain.

Last year, the family decided to make a full commitment to the company and began scouting locations for a bakery. Their new Pelham location includes a small public bakery for walkin customers and plenty of space to accommodate their large shipping business with an expanded kitchen and areas for wrapping and shipping.

The company has always been a family affair for the Wallaces, even more so now that they’ve opened the bakery.

Connie oversees the daily operations, and Mike, who teaches at Briarwood Christian School, typically arrives at Highland Gourmet after school ends. Their three grown children also help out with all aspects of the bakery.

After nine years of operating a shipping business, the Wallaces are looking forward to meeting their customers, whether they’re longtime fans or new converts.

“We have people who have been fans of Highland Gourmet scones since the beginning,” Connie said. “We really like that aspect of our business, getting to know our customers.”

Highland Gourmet Scone Company, located at 210 Cahaba Valley Road in Pelham is open Monday-Thursday from 6 a.m. to 6 p.m. and 6 a.m.-9 p.m. on Fridays and 9 a.m.-1 p.m. on Saturdays. For more information, visit Highlandgourmet.com or call 205-991-0442. l PAGE 52: Highland Gourmet Scones are available in four flavors: golden raisin, lemon-blueberry, cherry-amaretto and hazel crème chocolate chip. TOP: Connie and Mark Wallace, pictured with their son, Matt, recently opened Highland Gourmet Scone Company in Pelham. The Wallaces’ other children are also involved with the business.

December 2012 | 53

HOME & FOOD

54 | ShelbyLiving.com

The

lighter

side of Italian Tellini’s Italiano brings a fresh, new twist on tradition

Story by ChRisTiNe BOATWRiGhT Photographs by JON GOeRiNG

I

The vegetarian pizza includes mushrooms, onions, roasted red peppers, black olives, artichokes, fresh garlic and mozzarella.

talian food is the most popular food in the world, according to local restaurateur Nick Pihakis. Now, North Shelby has a deliciously fresh Italian restaurant that offers handmade pizza dough, bread, sauces and so much more.

Tellini’s Italiano is the newest sibling in a growing list of “fast, casual” restaurants managed by Fresh Hospitality Group.

The group, which Pihakis founded, also includes local powerhouses such as Jim ‘N Nick’s Bar-B-Q, Taziki’s Mediterranean Café, Riff Burger and Little Donkey Mexican restaurant.

According to Pihakis, Mike Tidwell, who founded the Tellini’s concept three years ago, approached Pihakis to collaborate on the restaurant’s menu.

“My house smelled like an Italian restaurant for six months,” Pihakis said, laughing. He said when he developed the menu for Little Donkey Mexican, he also experimented with Mexican dishes for about half a year, much to his wife’s

chagrin.

Pihakis, who lends his name to Jim ‘N Nick’s, started his career in an Italian restaurant 36 years ago. In 1985, Pihakis’ father, Jim, opened his first Jim ‘N Nick’s barbecue restaurant in Birmingham, with his son by his side.

Tellini’s has locations in Tupelo, Memphis and Huntsville, but Pihakis and his operating partner, Allen Mello, plan for Tellini’s U.S. 280 location to feature both traditional and modern, lighter Italian offerings.

As part of the fresh food philosophy, Tellini’s menu features freshly made breads and pizza dough, as well as homemade sauces. Also, as is the philosophy for all Fresh Hospitality restaurants, the kitchen doesn’t employ a freezer, Pihakis said.

“With Italian food, people’s perception is it’s something they wouldn’t eat for lunch because it’s too heavy,” Pihakis said.

Tellini’s is out to break the stereotype.

The restaurant itself embraces fast, casual dining with class. Customers approach the open kitchen to order, then take a number and filled glasses to either December 2012 | 55

CLOCKWISE FROM TOP LEFT: Tellini’s offers a variety of pastas, including spaghetti marinara, spaghetti arrabbiata, spaghetti with pesto, fettuccine alfredo, cheese tortellini, baked ziti and macaroni and cheese.

Located on Highway 280, the restaurant has a bright, open interior. Desserts, including lemon or strawberry cheesecake, are made fresh daily. PAGE 57: Paninis, including Italian, chicken parmesan, grilled steak and meatball, are pressed and served on homemade bread.

n n n n

www

56 | ShelbyLiving.com

hildrens

org/ on ussion

indoor or patio seating. Servers bring food to the diners and keep glasses refilled.

“We want to add things that were lighter and family friendly, but get a good balance of male to female clientele. With all heavy food, the female clientele isn’t going to eat there,” Pihakis said.

With a location adjacent to the everflowing traffic of U.S. 280, Pihakis said lunchtime appeal is important to the restaurant.

The menu features five salads with an added option of ordering the piadine of the day. A piadine, Pihakis explained, is a salad in a pizza, essentially the fresh ingredients of a salad wrapped in the warmth of a freshly made pizza crust.

Additional lunch options, Pihakis recommended, are the six paninis, which are pressed on homemade bread. The paninis, which range from tomato and fresh mozzarella to chicken Parmesan, range in price from $8-$9.50.

As with any good Italian restaurant, a portion of the menu is devoted to traditional dishes such as lasagna, shrimp

scampi, pizza and a variety of pasta dishes.

Tellini’s uses fresh ingredients to up the stakes.

“Our arrabbiata sauce is made with fresh tomatoes. It’s lighter than regular marinara sauce,” Pihakis said.

The pizzas, which come in eight varieties with an additional build-yourown option, range from $10-$12 and feed two people.

The restaurant also offers wine on tap, a cutting-edge feature Pihakis is “really proud of,” and a feature he’s planning to add to all of the Fresh Hospitality restaurants.

“With no bottles or corks, there’s zero waste,” Pihakis said. “The wine tastes the same every day, and it’s really high-quality wine.

“I wouldn’t come in here and eat lasagna without a glass of wine,” he added.

“It’s good for this kind of environment when people come,” Tellini’s Italiano is located at 4618 Old U.S. 280 in North Shelby. For more information, visit Tellinis.com. l

December 2012 | 57

HOME & FOOD

From her

mother’s table

A Wilsonville woman shares one of her beloved family recipes

Story by ChRisTiNe BOATWRiGhT Photographs by JON GOeRiNG

K

ay Ray said she wasn’t the type of child to tie on an apron, pull up a stool and learn from her mother’s culinary techniques, but she keeps one of her mother’s recipes near and dear.

Ray’s mother’s pecan pie recipe stems from a traditional recipe she found in a magazine years ago.

“It’s the recipe my mother always used,” she said. “I always use it because it’s her recipe.”

Ray, who has been the Wilsonville town clerk since 2002, has lived in the Wilsonville area since she was 4 years old.

Although the recipe is in her church’s cookbook, Ray said she once won a church-cooking contest with the recipe.

“Another woman brought her motherin-law’s recipe, and she was confident she would win, but I won instead. I think I won dishtowels — a big prize,” Ray said, laughing.

Ray said she “experiments” on the people at her church, Wilsonville United Methodist Church.

“They’re my guinea pigs now,” she said with a smile. “When I come in, they ask, ‘What are you experimenting on this time with us?’”

Ray also spends time baking for her five grandchildren.

“The grandkids start about Thanksgiving asking, ‘Where are the gingerbread cookies?’” she said.

58 | ShelbyLiving.com

Ray had only one tip for making the perfect pecan pie.

“My niece made the pie, and when the recipe says to reduce the temperature, she took the pie out of the oven, reduced the temperature, then put the pie back in. It didn’t work,” she said with a laugh.

Ray said her mother was a wonderful cook who catered to everyone at her table.

“I’m not inventive; I make dishes with recipes,” she said. “If someone printed it, they must have tested it.”

Ray’s pecan pie may turn out golden brown, but she did mention the difference between her pie and her mother’s.

“I cheat and buy a Pillsbury piecrust,” Ray said. “My mother made the most fabulous pie crust on the face of the earth.” l

Pecan Pie 2 Tbsp. flour 1/2 cup brown sugar 1/4 tsp. salt 1/2 cup butter 3 eggs 1 cup dark corn syrup 1 tsp. vanilla 1 cup pecan halves

Directions: 1. Preheat oven to 375 degrees.

2. Mix flour, brown sugar and salt together. Melt butter. Beat eggs until bubbly.

3. Add flour mixture, butter, corn syrup and vanilla to eggs.

4. Arrange pecans in bottom of unbaked pastry shell. Pour egg mixture over pecans.

5. Bake 10 minutes. Reduce oven temperature to 325 degrees. Bake 45 minutes oruntil set. Shield crust last 20 minutes.

December 2012 | 59

SHELBY SPOTTED

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Harvest of Hope luncheon

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The Harvest of Hope luncheon benefiting Oak Mountain Missions was held Sept. 18 at the Cahaba Grand Conference Center in Birmingham.

1. Pete Blenboski, David French and Ralph Phillips 2. Lynne Bullock, Shirley Brown, Noma Jean Crews and Colleen Adams 3. Villeta Layton and Bobby Jean Tucker 4. Betty Berry and Reba Hester 5. Brian Nickoles and Natalie King 6. Mary Woodard and Ann Friend 7. Wylma Stewart and JoAnn Hawkins 8. Olivia Weingarten and Debbie Reid 9. Jim and Lacey Poore

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10. Paula and Harvey Campbell 11. T. Digiorgio aand Karen Ford 12. Liz Warren and Martha Black 13. Brenda and Archie Turner 14. Martha Waldrum and Carol Hinshaw

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December 2012 | 61

SHELBY SPOTTED

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6 Riverchase Women’s Club monthly meeting The Riverchase Women’s Club held its monthly meeting Sept.

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1. Zada Malouf and Shelia Williams 2. Gloria Solomon, Virginia Martin and Jean Burnett 3. Nance Kohnen and Mary Anne Levet 4. Susan Freeman and Marie Teague 5. Tiffany Ballard and Kelly Landess 6. Liesa Pitts, Ray Reach, Ann Molony and Anne Lawless 7. Christen Causey and Lark Livingston 8. Gloria Nelson and Laura Cunningham

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Leadership Shelby County

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The Leadership Shelby County Class of 2013 attended its first class day in October. The day included a session on the history of Shelby County and visits to many local attractions within the county.

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1. Bobby Joe Seales and Shelby Patrick 2. Bridgette Jordan-Smith and Calvin Smith.

3. The 2013 LSC class.

December 2012 | 63

SHELBY SPOTTED

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5 2012 Fall Golf Classic

The 2012 Fall Golf Classic benefiting the Birmingham YMCA’s Strong Kids Campaign was held Sept. 27 at Timberline Golf Club in Calera.

1. Sandra Kelly, Suzanna Weimer and Dana Harmon 2. Jim Hayes, Russell Davis and Taylor Burton 3. Dana Harmon and Carol Hamilton 4. Ed Abrams, Malia Douglas and Ken Jernigan 5. Don Sawyer, Heath Debish and Gary Lovelady 6. Lane Vines, Terry McCartney and Calvin Gunn

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Special Equestrians Celebrity Golf Tournament

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The Special Equestrians Celebrity Golf Tournament was held Oct. 4 at Timberline Golf Course in Calera.

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1. Back Row: Thomas Rayam, David Smith, Terry Daniel, Antonio Langham, Smokey Hodge, Buddy Aydelette, Andre Royal, Philip Yost and Edward Butler. Front Row: Chris Vines, Lamonde Russell, Bobby Humphrey, Chris Hammond, Mark Everett, Luvell Bivins, Andre Howard and Joe Cribbs 2. Andre Howard, Bobby Humphrey and Smokey Hodge 3. Greg Smith, Kathleen M. Claybrook and Greg Powell

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You are cordially invited to attend The

SHELBY Living

Bridal Show Sunday, January 6, 2013 1 p.m.-4 p.m. at the Cahaba Grand Conference Center 3660 Grandview Parkway, Birmingham, AL For more information, visit facebook.com/shelbylivingbridalshow.

December 2012 | 65

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Mt. Laurel Elementary Renaissance Fair

Mt Laurel Elementary School held a Renaissance Fair on Sept. 28.

1. Korbin, Kwa and Karter Long 2. Jennifer, Brandon and Marianna Martinez 3. Nancy and Avery McClain 4. Amanda and Isiah Saddler 5. Corey, Amy, Carter, Avery and Ansley Dotson 6. Jessica and Bennett Naylor 7. Leah McCartha and Alex Chenault 8. Scott, Christy and Emma Underwood 9. Laura, Ashley and Lexie Clinton

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10. Traci and Gabe Griffin 11. Jeremy and Alayna Johnson 12. Joy and Jill Hindman and Mia Robertson 13. MacKenzie and Morgan Spray 14. Sarah Quick and Lyndsey Knecht

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December 2012 | 67

SHELBY SPOTTED

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Deep Roots Gardening Dinner

Hilltop Montessori School in Mt Laurel hosted a “Deep Roots Gardening Dinner,” catered by Stone’s Throw Bar and Grill executive chef Chris Harrigan, on Sept. 30.

1. Eric Fox and Michele Scott Wilensky 2. Marie and John Freeman 3. Susan Desmond and Regina Newsome 4. Heather Burns, Tammy Ruff and Melissa Ipsan 5.Michele Scott Wilensky and Chris Harrigan 6. Selena Harrison and Kevin Harrison 7. James and Barbara Byrd and Michele Scott Wilensky

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The Alabaster Parks and Recreation Department held its annual Bark in the Park day at Veterans Park on Oct. 6.

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1. Bethany Wakefield, Eliot Ingram and Teeka the dog 2. Theresa and Pete Peterson and their dog, Lili 3. John Hawkins and his dog, Bono 4. Christine Goguen, Benjamin Goguen, Susann Kircher, Tanner Goguen and Bella the dog 5. Austin Mowles and his dog, Nico 6. Heather and Kendal Burns and their dog, Titan 7. Tesla Noble, her daughter Laynie and their dog, Loupin

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December 2012 | 69

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Lifeline R(un) For One

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The Lifeline R(un) For One was held at Veterans Park Sept. 29.

1. Liz Brock, Amy Schaeffer and Anna English 2. Boyd Christenberry, Mackenzie Hill, Selah Christenberry, Elise Christenberry, Poppi Christenberry and Kim Christenberry 3. Caroline Bowlin and Ramsey Pursell 4. Ashleigh McIntosh, Lacey Pulley and Heather Pulley 5. Dee and Josh Wilder 6. Jessica and Josh Bordas 7. JC, Sam, Jason and John David Ellerbee 8. Reannon Holman and Natalie Valentine 9. Constadina Long and Amy Brasher

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10. Kesha Franklin and Isaiah Marbury 11. Rachel Ferguson and Maggie Parker 12. Susanna Joy Schor, Susie Schor, Summer Schor and Julia Wolnski 13. Brad and Amber Dorsett 14. Lynn Beckett, Anni Zheng and Ashley Belyeu

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December 2012 | 71

SHELBY SPOTTED

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JDRF Walk to Cure

The JDRF Walk to Cure Diabetes was held Sept. 23 at Veterans Park.

1. Abbey McCarthy, Carolyn Cleary, Riley McCarthy and Jill McCarthy 2. Katie, Gina, Anne, Marti, Cathy and John Sherman 3. Hannah Davidson and Alina Pitman 4. Rachel Botta, Maggie Cleary and Heather Turpening 5. Britney Brown and Logan McCabe 6. Josh and Steven Peters 7. Gentry Williams, Emma Honeywell and Grace Choi 8. Penny Fuller, Brittany Fuller and Tiffany Latta 9. Owen, Jennifer, Isabelle, Matt and Graham Willis.

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10. Anthony Davis and Dawn Lawson.

11. Morgan Carter and Madison Bassett 12. Brooke Hollingsworth, Haley Hollingsworth and Jewell Metheny 13. Robbie Phillips and Sara Hood 14. Jacky Harris, Bobbie Harris, Kristen Harris and Janice Webb

Chevrolet

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December 2012 | 73

SHELBY SPOTTED

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Chelsea Homecoming Parade

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The Chelsea High School homecoming parade was on Oct. 7.

1. Aynsley Davis, Mallory Heisler, Haley Hagin and Cami Luntz 2. Front row: Courtney Carter, Kaitlyn Seesholtz, Preston Sorrell and Laurel Tolbert. Back row: Tony Thompson, Davis Shoemaker and Sean Fant 3. Mike and Angie Swiney with Bryant Rodgers 4. Inez Persall and Jill Reyer 5. Amanda, Rob and Tejh Hardin 6. Becky, Daniel and Jenna Shirley 7. Madison VanHousen, Sara Saint and Abby Clark 8. Maleah Burdette, Olivia Dew and Suzie Lee 9. Mallory, Susan and Roy Cooper

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Montevallo Fire Prevention Parade

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The Montevallo Fire Prevention Parade Oct. 6 in downtown Montevallo.

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1. Reese and Riley Cost 2. Nicholas and Heather Burnett with Jesse and Christina Russell 3. Nadarius Smith, Dezirea White, Anthony Ross, Zaire White and Jaurice Smith 4. Brody and Shane Stoudenmier 5. Jacob Reynolds and Alyssa Fryee 6. Tre and Nick Wilson 7. Jalynn Jones and Diamond Farrington

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Welcome to the good life.

Welcome to Shelby Living!

Subscribe today

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to receive a copy in your mailbox monthly!

r, e yea for on sues 12 is

• • • •

Arts & Culture Local Fashions Unique Home Features Monthly calendar of events and happenings

SHELBY Living To Subscribe visit ShelbyLiving.com or call 669-3131

December 2012 | 75

SHELBY SPOTTED

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Chelsea Day

Chelsea Day was held on the lawn of Chelsea City Hall on Oct. 6.

1. Casey Hall, Barbi Arevel and LeeAnne Hall 2. J.J. Davis, Tray Davis, Quintin Dorough, Kaleb Appling, Zane Lovelady and Hunter Preisendorfer 3. Erin Morris and Buzz 4. Nanette and Rick Mayfield 5. Adam, Shanon and Cardina Cress 6. Jean Ziegret and Dixie Marie 7. David Ingram, Edna Sealy and Jenni Russell 8. Elna Hanson and Olene Wiginton 9. Chynna, Diamond and Peter Wren

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10. Joe, Holly, Alex and Kiki Hardy 11. Francie and Joey Icolano 12. Brianna, Kimmie, Levi and Eddie Braden 13. Greg and Michelle Lovelady 14. Abby, Val, Emma and Joe Harvey

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December 2012 | 77

SHELBY SPOTTED

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Calera Chamber Golf Tournament

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The Calera Chamber of Commerce Golf Tournament was held Oct. 8 at Timberline Golf Club in Calera.

1. Stan Shotts, Jeremy Allen, Mike Hope, amd Don Collier 2. Jeff Picklesimer, John Schilleci, Chip Oelschlaeger, and George Walling 3. Pat Huffman and Stephanie Busby 4. Gail Blankenship and Jon Graham 5. Holly Stanley and Lisa Beasley 6. Ron Van Erve 7. Tom Velo and Lonnie Layton 8. Charles Byars and Pat Shugrue 9. Dennis Hulsey, Keith Cummings, Chuck Pervis, and Ryan Watson

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Montevallo Mayor’s Breakfast

The city of Montevallo’s third annual Mayor’s Breakfast Honoring Hometown Heroes was Oct. 12 at American Village.

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1. Teri Strickland, Kimberly Hunter and Brenda Knight 2. Front row: Tyelyn Maddox and Alasha Reed. Last row: Zoe Dukes and Kanan Harbuck 3. Ben McCrory and Libbie Rodgers 4. Ray Hamilton and Anita Glover 5. Pete Walker and Angel Tillman 6. Taylor Lawrence and Rep. April Weaver 7. Taylor Lawrence and Ben McCrory 8. Sharon Anderson and Ben McCrory 9. Linda Easterling and Allie Williams December 2012 | 79

OUT & ABOUT The Nutcracker

Alabaster Christmas Parade

Ongoing

Christmas Tree farm Old Baker Farm’s Choose and Cut Christmas Tree Farm is open daily from 9 a.m.-dark through Dec. 24. Fee scale for trees range from $15-$100.

Available trees include Virginia Pine, Leyland Cypress, Caroline Sapphire and Red Cedar. Cash or check only. Old Baker Farm is located at 1041 Farmingdale Road in Harpersville. Visit Oldbakerfarm.com. photography Roundtable The Shelby County Arts Council holds a photography roundtable on the first Wednesday of each month from 6-8 p.m. at 104 Mildred Street in Columbiana. Join facilitator Hank Siegel to share advice, tips, ideas and knowledge. All photographers from amateurs to professionals are invited. $5 participation fee.

Visit. Shelbycountyartscouncil. com.

Dec. 1, 8, 15

santa special The Heart of Dixie Railroad Museum will host train rides with Santa. Every child receives a gift. Tickets and information at HODRRM.org or 205-7578383

Dec. 1

Artist market 80 | ShelbyLiving.com

The Shelby County Arts Council will host its annual artist market at its gallery in Columbiana on Dec. 1 from 8:30 a.m.-3:30 p.m.

Opera scenes The University of Montevallo Opera will present scenes from various operas Nov. 30 and Dec. 1 in LeBaron Recital Hall at 7:30 p.m. helena Christmas parade The 42nd annual Helena Christmas Parade will be held Saturday, Dec. 1 at 1:30 p.m.

This year’s theme is “Merry Christmas, Y’all.”

Alabaster Christmas parade Alabaster Christmas Parade is set for Saturday, Dec. 1 at 10 a.m. on Highway 31 from Keystone Plaza to Buck Creek Park. Parade theme is “Christmas Wonderland on Main Street.”

Tour of homes The Columbiana Tour of Homes will be held Dec. 1 from 11 a.m.-3 p.m. The tour will feature four homes and two businesses, and the theme is “Hometown Christmas.”

Tickets cost $10 in advance and $12 on the day of the tour. Tickets are available at Total Eye Care Clinic, Corner Barbershop, Shelby County Museum and Archives and Columbiana Family Dentistry.

For more information, call Ouida Mayfield at 669-7813.

Dec. 2

Great Amazing Adventure Race Kids in grades 1-12 pair up with a parent, grandparent, sibling or mentor and compete in a series of fun challenges modeled after the show The Amazing Race. For teams of two (adult/kid or kid/kid), one or both contestants must be a student in grades 1-12.

Teams race around a onemile cross country course that includes up to eight funfilled challenge stations. Cue cards at each station instruct teams to complete a task (game, relay, obstacle course) before proceeding to the next challenge station. The team that reaches the finish line with the fastest overall time wins. The race is scheduled for Sunday, Dec. 2 at 1 p.m. at Oak Mountain State Park in Pelham.

Dec. 3

montevallo Chorale Christmas Concert This community choir, under the direction of music alumna, Maria Hanvy Wilson, and composed of students and community volunteers, will present a program of holiday selections and other choral works. This concert is free

and the public is invited. For more information, please call 665-6670. Monday, Dec. 3 from 7:30-8:30 p.m. at LeBaron Recital Hall.

Dec. 3-6

student Art exhibit The University of Montevallo will feature a BFA Student Art Exhibition at Bloch Art Gallery Dec. 3-6.

Dec. 4-6

see the White house in Gingerbread Enjoy a delicious lunch in Liberty Hall, patterned after the East Room of the White House. Meet George Washington and America’s founders. Tour the President’s House and Colonial Chapel.

Enjoy the lovely miniature Christmas Village and train.

Offered Tuesday-Thursday, Dec. 4 – 6 at 10:30 a.m. and noon. Tour and Lunch: $25, per person.

Reservation only: 665-3535, ext. 1031 or christmas@americanvillage. org.

Dec. 6

Vincent Christmas parade The Vincent Christmas Parade is scheduled for Thursday, Dec. 6 at 6 p.m.

Columbiana parade

Christmas

Columbiana’s “Hometown Christmas” Parade will be held Thursday, Dec. 6 at 7 p.m. The parade will include a band, grand marshal, floats, fire engines and Santa Claus. For more information, call Ouida Mayfield at 669-7813.

Dec. 6-8

“Greetings” The South City Theatre, 3640 Highway 26 in Alabaster, will perform the comedy “Greetings.”

Andy has a sweet Catholic mother, a sour Catholic father and a mentally disabled younger brother named Mickey. When Andy brings his Jewish atheist fiance to meet the folks on Christmas Eve, his worst fears about family blow ups are realized. But Mickey, whose entire vocabulary is “oh boy” and “wow,” suddenly says “Greetings!” An ancient, wise and witty spirit who is set upon healing the family has borrowed Mickey’s body.

The SCT’s website calls it “a delightful holiday production.”

Performances will be held Dec. 6-8 and 13-15 at 8 p.m. A matinee will be held Dec. 9 at 2 p.m. For tickets, call 621-2128 or visit Southcitytheatre.com.

Dec. 7

Reading with santa Reading with Santa at the Westover Library, located at 3312 Westover Road in City Hall, will be Dec. 7 at 7 p.m.

Dec. 7-8

musical Cabaret The University of Montevallo theater department will perform a musical cabaret at Chichester Black Box Theatre at 7:30 p.m.

Dec. 8

AWC holiday Craft and Bake sale Share the spirit of the holidays with friends and family by purchasing homemade goodies and handmade crafts at the Alabama Wildlife Center’s annual Craft and Bake Sale.

The fundaiser is scheduled for Saturday, Dec. 8 from 10 a.m.-2 p.m. at Veterans Park in Hoover.

Calera Christmas parade The Calera Christmas Parade will be held Saturday, Dec. 8 at 2 p.m. Call the Calera Chamber office at 205-668-3023 for more details.

Westover Christmas parade The Westover Christmas Parade is schedule for Saturday, Dec. 8 at 10 a.m.

The Decked Out Dash Don your Santa suits, elf shoes, jingle bells and tacky holiday sweaters for this annual run. Runners and walkers will receive an official race T-shirt and a fun run bag full of goodies. Prizes and giveaways will be awarded.

Proceeds will benefit children and adults with intellectual

disabilities served by The Arc of Jefferson County. The run will be held Dec. 8 at 8 a.m. at Oak Mountain State Park in Pelham. Registration is $25.

Visit Active.com.

Dec. 8-9

The Nutcracker Stevan Grebel’s The Nutcracker is schedule for Saturday, Dec. 8 at 2:30 and 7 p.m. and Sunday, Dec. 9 at 2:30 p.m. The Alabama Youth Ballet, a community cast and professionals from around Alabama will be dancing in this eighth annual production at Pelham High School Theatre.

The Nutcracker Boutique, sponsored by the Alabama Youth Ballet Guild, will have gift and memorabilia items for purchase. All seats are reserved: $10 general, $15 orchestra. Call 987-7234 or visit Grebeldance.com.

Visiting Writers series Indian Springs School will host poets Adam Vines and Amish Trivedi for the ISS Fall 2012 Visiting Writers Series on Dec. 10 at 7:30 p.m. in the school library. Free and open to the public. Info: Dray@ indiansprings.org or Jsmith@ indiansprings.org.

Dec. 13

pet Adoption Drive The American Red Cross and Shelby Humane Society are partnering to save the lives people and pets with a blood drive on Thursday, Dec. 13. All

presenting blood and platelet donors at the Caldwell Trace Donor center will be eligible to adopt a pet from the Shelby Humane Society for free. The pets will be spayed/neutered, microchipped and vacinated to date. The Caldwell Trace Donor Center will serve as a drop off point for items needed at the SHS. Their wish list includes: kitty litter, canned and dry food for dogs and cats, blankets, towels, bleach, fabulouso or other cleaners, mops, brooms, toys, collars, leashes, crates, gates and dog houses. Visit Redcrossblood. com.

Dec. 15

Disc Golf Birmingham’s Christmas Classic will be held at Dec. 15 at Inverness Disc Golf Park in Hoover. For more information, contact Justin Littrell at 205531-8121 or email Justin@ discgolfbirmingham.com.

Christmas and Cocoa with santa Head to downtown Columbiana for Christmas and Cocoa with Santa on Saturday, Dec. 15 from 10 a.m.-2 p.m.

Bring your own camera.

Chelsea Christmas parade Chelsea’s Christmas Parade is scheduled for Dec. 15 at 10 a.m.

Do you have an event you would like to include in our calendar?

Email katie.mcdowell@ shelbyliving.com.

Disc Golf

South City Theatre December 2012 | 81

WHY I LOVE SHELBY COUNTY

Rep. Mike Hill A lifelong resident looks back

R

ep. Mike Hill was first elected to the state House of Representatives in 1986. He and Carol, his wife of 41 years, have three children: Hayden Jeffries, a teacher at Elvin Hill Elementary; Jon Michael, who died when he was 16; and Hunter, who works in Memphis, Tenn. The Hills, who live in Columbiana, also have three grandchildren.

What do you love about Shelby County?

I have watched it grow from a rural county to the sprawling metropolitan county that we now live in. Columbiana was considered a large town compared to all the other cities when I was growing up. Now it is very small compared to the areas of growth and I think that is why I love it so. But all parts of the county are equally as beautiful with its lakes and mountains, subdivisions and shopping centers, and timber and farmland. In my younger days, we had to drive to Birmingham for almost everything, but now, everything we need is within 10 to 15 minutes from anywhere in Shelby County.

Why did you decide to seek elected office?

I was a page in the legislature for John Lewis Cates when I was 12 and I had never seen anything as exciting.

When it was over, I knew that I wanted to come back one day. My father, Elvin Hill, one of the greatest men I have ever known, was an elected official for most of my adolescent life. Even though I said I hated campaigning, the interest in serving was always there. When I finally got to a point in my career that I could serve, I jumped into the fire.

What do you think is the most overlooked issue facing the state right now?

In some areas of the state, the children are not benefiting from their 82 | ShelbyLiving.com

Written by KATie mCDOWell education as they should. As our school system continues to improve and prosper, I feel we need to help parents to get more involved in their children’s education.

I believe that kids are only going to get out of school what their parents require them to get out of it. If parents don’t stand behind the educators and reinforce the education at home, then the children will not reach their full potential and our state will not meet national standards.

What is the proudest moment of your political career?

I think it was the first piece of major legislation that I passed which was the Home Builders Licensing Act. It was probably the toughest piece of legislation I ever passed, got its final approval in the Senate as the clock struck midnight on the very last day of the session, and has impacted the state in a positive way.

Who is your role model?

I know he is only a fictional character, but Atticus Finch in the book “To Kill a Mockingbird” has been an inspiration in my life. On almost every major and controversial issue I have faced in Montgomery, I would find myself asking, “What would Atticus do in this situation?” I really don’t want to give him “the big head,” but Butch Ellis is my “real life” mentor and friend, my Atticus Finch.

What’s your favorite Christmas memory?

Getting my first bicycle and riding it all over town early on Christmas morning knowing that I had to be the coolest guy on earth. I had learned to ride on my sister Peg’s “girlie” bike and I was ready to be a man.

What’s your favorite Christmas song?

“O Holy Night.”

How does your family celebrate Christmas?

Our family celebration starts with the candlelight service on Christmas Eve at First Baptist Church of Columbiana.

It is such an inspirational way to begin the Christmas celebration. It helps us stay grounded and remember that, first and foremost, Christ is the center of our holiday. I don’t think we have ever missed one of these services. My whole family then gathers for a light meal, knowing the next day brings more food than any of us should ever eat in one day.

On Christmas morning, the fun begins as all us, along with my siblings and parents, would get up early to go and watch the grandchildren see what Santa has brought.

They aren’t allowed downstairs until we all arrive! (Torture!) My sweet daughter, Hayden, would then serve breakfast for us all. In the past, we would always head to my parents’ house for a big Christmas dinner and the opening of what seemed like thousands of presents and lots of fun. Most of the time it would end with leftovers and a movie for all.

With the loss of my dad recently, we will be forced to change some traditions this year. But the love we have for one another, and missing those who cannot be with us, will never change.

Peace on earth starts here.

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