Vestavia Hills Magazine, Winter 2022

With new treatments, more ground-breaking technologies and teams of top physicians collaborating on every case, the O’Neal Comprehensive Cancer Center provides the most advanced, compassionate care possible. We treat all cancers and are constantly working to provide the victories today that will help ensure better tomorrows.

FEATURES

Cahaba Heights resident Susan Downs, who is also the mother of Miss America 2005 Deidre Downs, wins the 2022 Ms. Senior Alabama pageant.

Of all the times to travel to New Orleans – early spring for Mardi Gras, late spring for Jazz Fest –winter might become your new favorite time.

What should you buy for friends and loved ones this season? Look no further than the shops right around you.

BY HOLLI HOBBS PHOTOGRAPHY

PHOTO

PHOTO BY LAUREN USTAD

contributors

EDITORIAL

Lizzie Bowen

Meg Herndon

Anna Grace Moore

Lauren Sexton

Noah Wortham

CONTRIBUTORS

James Culver

Rachel Culver

Lauren Dowdle

Holli Hobbs

Lucasfilm

Michelle Love

Madoline Markham

Pictures by Anna Grace

Lily Prince Blair Ramsey

Christiana Roussel

Lauren Ustad DESIGN

Jamie Dawkins

Connor Martin-Lively Briana Sansom

MARKETING

Sydney Allen

Octavia Campbell

Evann Campbell

Jessica Caudill

Kari George

Michaela Hancock

Rachel Henderson

Rhett McCreight

Lauren Morris

Viridiana Romero

Tori Montjoy Smith

ADMINISTRATION

Mary Jo Eskridge

Alec Etheredge

Madison King Stacey Meadows

Tim Prince

Brittany Schofield

Savana Tarwater

Anna Willis

Michelle Love, Writer

Michelle loves writing about all of the new and exciting things Birmingham has to offer. She has worked as a freelance and contributing writer for nine years now and in that time has written about the different businesses and people that make this city so unique. When she isn’t writing, Michelle can be found trying out new recipes in her kitchen, while listening to classic rock music or reading a horror novel. She also loves spending time with her family, her boyfriend and her pets, Lola and Moody.

Blair Ramsey, Photographer

Blair is a Vestavia Hills-based photographer whose company, Southern Intrigue Photography, specializes in sports action, portrait and commercial images. Blair and her husband, John, have two sons, Cooper and Cameron, who have both had the privilege of being Auburn cheerleaders. Blair’s work can be found at southernintriguephotography. com, on Instagram @southernintriguephotography and Facebook @southernintrigue.

Lily Prince, Writer

Hailing from Hayden, Alabama, Lily is a Birmingham-Southern student, who’s currently pursuing her bachelor’s degree in English. She enjoys writing, whether it be academic or creative, and has ever since she was a kid. Lily recently finished interning with Hoover’s Magazine this past summer and hopes to begin a career in media when she graduates next fall.

Christiana Roussel, Writer

Where should we have dinner? Where should we go on our next family vacation or couple’s getaway? What kind of shotgun should I buy? These are all queries writer Christiana Roussel has answered in recent months. While food writing is her original passion, she has really enjoyed expanding her repertoire to include travel and sporting activities that might involve an upland adventure. And no, it is not just because there might be a need for new clothes for the expedition.

Vestavia Hills Magazine is published quarterly by Shelby County Newspapers Inc., P.O. Box 947, Columbiana, AL 35051. Vestavia Hills Magazine 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, Vestavia Hills Magazine, P.O. Box 947, Columbiana, AL 35051.

Vestavia Hills Magazine is mailed to select households throughout Vestavia Hills, and a limited number of free copies are available at local businesses. Please visit VestaviaHillsMagazine.com for a list of those locations. Subscriptions are available at a rate of $14.95 plus tax for one year by visiting VestaviaHillsMagazine.com or calling (205) 669-3131, ext. 532.

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ON THE COVER

The Force is Strong

Rising actor and local Liberty Park resident Grant Feely is making a name for himself in Hollywood and in Birmingham, too.

Photo by “Pictures by Anna Grace” Design by Jamie Dawkins

TTo mark an end of an era is to often say goodbye and part ways with tradition and loved ones. Holidays such as Thanksgiving and Christmas should be joyous occasions, right? Everyone sings Christmas carols and decorates their trees in fluorescent splendor. For some, however, holidays can be a drag to trudge through. I am one of those who dred yuletide cheer.

Now, don’t get me wrong, readers. I enjoy turkey on Thanksgiving Day and watching the Thanksgiving Day parade that only until this year did my uncle inform me was not actually called, “The Macy’s Day Parade.” I look forward to Samford, my alma mater’s “Lighting of the Way,” in which the university celebrates the season’s festivities with live music and the lighting of an enormous tree. Though, festivities, I’d argue, are just the perks that holidays often bring. It is the people we share those holidays with that make such moments worthwhile.

For those that have lost, holidays often leave a void unfulfilled in their hearts. My father passed away from a brainstem stroke on October 10, 2020, completely out of the blue. My mother, my sister and I spent what felt like an eternity in the ICU, waiting for him to wake up. He never did. Finally, after grieving a life cut short, my mother decided to send my father home to Heaven in time for the holidays. Being one of the most remarkable RN’s that Birmingham has to offer, she actually was the one to “pull the plug,” literally. She didn’t want anyone else to send him home because she took “till death do us part” quite seriously, and she wanted to ensure his care.

My mother is the strongest woman I know. I remember that first Christmas without my father. We three sat around the Christmas tree just staring into the emerald abyss, wondering how so much decor could yet feel still so empty.

My message to you, readers, (for those that share my faith) is that as the dreaded “joyful occasions embark,” remember that our loved ones are probably celebrating one of the best festivities holidays have to offer in Heaven. Heaven is a place without pain or sorrow. Oh, to hear the angels sing on Christmas morning, rejoicing our Savior’s birth! Won’t that be a sight to see?

I cannot promise holidays will get any easier for anyone with a void, but I can successfully say that new traditions will be made. When one era ends, another begins. So, I wish you all comfort during your grief, joy at the end of your sorrows and above all, to remember to cling fast to those you call dear.

With all the love in my heart, I wish you each a wonderful holiday season.

annagrace.moore@vestaviahillsmagazine.com

@VestaviaHillsMag

@ashley_owensphotography

@josh_ehmke_realtor

CHRISTMAS WITH THE GETTYS

SUNDAY, DEC 11 • 4 & 7:30 pm

Ticket information can be found at shades.org.

SATURDAY, DEC 24 • 1, 3, & 5 pm

This hour-long candlelight experience will set our hearts on the true purpose of the Christmas season.

What are your favorite holiday traditions?

The annual Hanukkah menorah lighting celebration at The Summit and the car menorah parade from Chabad in Mountain Brook into downtown Birmingham!

-Chava Usher

Every year my family picks a movie and goes to the Alabama Theatre to see a classic film.

-Jessica Chisenhall

We play bingo on Christmas Eve with my family! It’s super competitive, and everyone brings the prizes. It’s something I will never not miss!

-Olivia Webb

We buy each child a Christmas ornament that they can take with them when they’re out on their own. We also love driving around, looking at Christmas lights.

-Paula Ruffino

Our family goes to a Christmas Eve candlelight service.

-Melissa Lassiter

Decorating our tree. It’s a labor of love, but it holds cherished family memories.

-Karen Askins

I look forward to family Thanksgiving dinner. I’m thankful for our many blessings.

-Mayor Ashley Curry

When I was growing up, my favorite tradition was riding along with my family to see all of the Christmas/ Hanukkah decorations in our surrounding neighborhoods.

-Michelle Love

M Y L A G O S M Y W A Y

2022 CHRISTMAS HOME TOUR DEC. 8

VIEWINGS FROM 10 A.M.-2 P.M. & 4-8 P.M. Appointed Homes in Mountain Brook and Vestavia Hills

Tour homes, presented by the Samford Legacy League, in all their festive glory at this annual event to benefit the Samford Legacy League’s scholarships. Patrons can enjoy treats at the Samford President’s home, too! The Samford Legacy League is a service organization that is dedicated to funding scholarships for Samford students in challenging circumstances and/or in financial need. Visit samford.edu/legacyleague/ for more information.

THE GUIDE

DEC. 11

Vestavia Hills Holiday Parade

2 P.M.

Liberty Park Sports Complex to Alston Meadows

This family-friendly event is perfect for all ages! Bring the kids to watch as floats

pass down through Liberty Park, and join in on the fun for the celebration afterwards, too! Vendors who are interested in having a booth at the celebration can email chamber@ vestaviahills.org for more information.

DEC. 10

Breakfast with Santa

7:30-10 A.M. Vestavia Hills Civic Center

Join Santa and friends for a pancake breakfast! This breakfast is free and open to the public. Everyone is welcome to attend and get their picture taken, too. This event is courtesy of the City of Vestavia Hills.

MONDAYS THROUGH THE WINTER Ashtanga Yoga

The Birmingham Botanical Gardens

THURSDAYS THROUGH THE WINTER Trivia Night Brock’s Gap Brewing Company

NOV. 25-DEC. 24 Christmas Tree Farm Old Baker Farm

NOV. 29

Tree Lighting Festival Vestavia Hills City Hall

NOV. 29 Christmas Tree Lighting Hoover City Hall

DEC. 1 Mistletoe & Mimosas Lane Parke

DEC. 1

Mountain Brook Holiday Open Houses English Village and Mountain Brook Village

DEC. 1-18 Holiday Spectacular Presented by Red Mountain Theatre Company

DEC. 2 All is Bright Lane Parke

DEC. 2

Birmingham Bulls v. Macon Mayhem Pelham Civic Complex

DEC. 2-4 The Nutcracker Presented by the Lyric Theatre

DEC. 3

Thomas Andrew Art Studio and Gallery Holiday Open House

DEC. 4

Mountain Brook Holiday Parade Mountain Brook Village

DEC. 4

Deep South Magic City Christmas Classic

The Hoover Metropolitan Complex

DEC. 9-22

2022 Holiday Film Series Presented by the Alabama Theatre

DEC. 9

Birmingham Bulls v. Pensacola Ice Flyers Pelham Civic Complex

DEC. 9

White Christmas Viewing Presented by the Alabama Theatre

DEC. 10 Independent Presbyterian Church’s Virtual Holiday Home Tour Virtual Event DEC. 10

Fifth Annual Ugly Sweater Crawl Tin Roof

DEC. 10

Christmas with Act of Congress

The Wright Center at Samford University

DEC. 10

Avondale’s Holiday Market Avondale Brewing Company

DEC. 15

Trans-Siberian Orchestra Presented by Legacy Arena

DEC. 17-18

CASC Gun Show

The Hoover Metropolitan Complex

DEC. 18

Sounds of the Season Presented by Opera Birmingham Brock Recital Hall at Samford University

DEC. 17

Reindeer Dash

DEC. 13

7:30 A.M. Pure Fitness, 1425 Montgomery Highway, Suite 115

The annual reindeer dash 5K and 1-mile fun run is back! Work off all that party food, and better yet, dress as your favorite holiday character for the races! This family-friendly event is open to all, but runners must register ahead of time at runsignup.com. Runners’ fees are $35 for the 5K and $25 for the fun run.

The Birmingham Boys Choir’s Annual Christmas Concert

7 P.M.

The Wright Center at Samford University

Join the Birmingham Boys Choir for its 45th Annual Christmas Concert! The choir will serenade the audience with musical delight, emphasis on paying homage to traditional carols and choral music honoring the birth of Christ. The event is free and open to the public. All ages are welcome to come and worship through

DEC. 13

song. For more information, visit birminghamboyschoir.org.

December Luncheon

11:30 A.M.-1 P.M. Vestavia Country Club

Join the Vestavia Hills Chamber of Commerce for their monthly luncheon! Networking begins at 11:30 a.m., and lunch will be served at noon. Reservations are $25 per person, but late reservations are $30. To reserve your spot, visit business.vestaviahills.org/events/.

EDUCATION

UPDATES FROM VESTAVIA HILLS CITY SCHOOLS

Have you heard? Ten Vestavia Hills students have been accepted into the Alabama School of Fine Arts for the 2022-23 school year!

Congratulations to the following students: Akhil Batchu, math and science; Henry Chen, math and science; Raymond Liu, math and science; Shreyas Keshava, math and science; Shreya Tandon, math and science; Ari Woertz, creative writing; Spencer Bradley, visual arts; Rishika Chakravarty, visual arts; Bobbi Katherine Garcia, visual arts; and Delilah Wilkerson, visual arts.

DEC. 20

Vestavia Hills Menorah Lighting

6-7 P.M.

Vestavia Hills City Hall

Join the friends of the Vestavia Hills Chamber of Commerce for a night of fellowship and a celebration of Hanukkah! There will be refreshments, family-friendly activities and a chance to connect with peers in our community.

DEC. 20-22

Living Nativity Mountain Brook Baptist Church

DEC. 31

Run Undead, Ultra Trail Party Oak Mountain State Park

JAN. 6 Electric Avenue Presented by Iron City Bham

JAN. 14

Alabama Symphony Orchestra Presented by the Alys Stephens Center at UAB

JAN. 16

Birmingham Bulls v. Hunstville Havoc Pelham Civic Complex

JAN. 19-22

The Birmingham Boat Show BJCC

ARTS CULTURE&

EVOKING EMOTION

BY MICHELLE LOVE PHOTOS BY BLAIR RAMSEY

The Birmingham School of Music founder and director Russ Maddox is inspiring students to dream big.

IIn its more than 30 years in operation, the Birmingham School of Music has treated every student who walks through the doors as if they’re going to become a professional musician. It’s an important part of the school’s approach to teaching and has led countless students to careers in music, though the ultimate goal, according to the school’s founder and director Russ Maddox, is to ensure a strong love of music in every student.

“For the most part, music contributes joy, and most people who are listening to music are listening to it for the joy that it brings them,” Russ says. “I try to ensure that, hopefully, all of my students will continue to have an appreciation for the positive complement that music makes to their life.”

Russ opened the school in 1996 in its original

location in Hoover. He was working in advertising for a national magazine and was teaching music in private lessons a few days a week on the side. The next thing he knew, he had 40 students and a waiting list of another 40.

After realizing his true passion for teaching music, Russ decided in June 1996 to go off on his own and open a drum school. It was originally called Birmingham Percussion, but it grew from there over the years to include more teachers and include retail. He says at the time it was the thirdlargest drum shop in the Southeast. In the meantime he worked at Vestavia Hills High School (VHHS) as a drum instructor.

Russ decided to leave VHHS in 2005 to focus his sole energy on the teaching aspect of the school. In 2009 the school moved to its current location in Vestavia off of Highway 31. He then

expanded the school portion of the business by teaching violin, voice, guitar and piano in addition to drums. Currently, the school has 350 students a week with 10 teachers total.

“I have a real passion for teaching kids, so while it gets a little frantic on occasion because of the sheer volume of students coming to this location, I like it,” he says. “I prefer it to be really busy. The students love coming here. This is their sanctuary.”

Students enrolled range in age from 5 years old to their oldest, which Russ says is almost 80. He says while they do cater to people of all ages and demographics, their main percentage of clientele is people ages 5 to 16 years old. He adds that everybody who has a passion for music and wants to learn is welcome to the school.

Russ says the one thing that connects all of his students of any age is how music evokes emotion within them.

“Every single piece of music created has one common thread. That is, it was created to evoke emotion,” he says. “We apply that to all art, and so when you hear a piece of music, it’s going to touch you in a way that most times if you’re not a musician, it’s unexplainable. When young kids are first being exposed to that, it attracts them to want to feel that emotion that is evoked more often. It’s all tied to emotion – no matter the style or genre, music will speak to you.”

Russ says he has found music is not as prominent a part of home life as it once was due to the influx of technology present in its place. As a result, some students aren’t able to express

their musical identity, as Russ calls it, and they need more assistance in finding what music they enjoy and what speaks to them.

While he says the influx of technology taking over the car radio and stereo has impacted his business, it’s more seen as a challenge to expose his younger students to as much music as possible. Russ and his teachers are more than up to the challenge, however, as he says watching his students find their musical identity is a feeling that can’t be matched.

“It’s a really weird time for those of us who are trying to promote music as an integral part of someone’s life when there’s so many other things competing for our attention,” he says. “I’m always reminding my teachers to stay relevant, regardless of your influences through your life up until now. We have to stay focused on what is influencing the youth since it’s our primary client [and priority] to make sure we’re staying relevant to them and be able to relate to them and guide them to make sure music is an important part of their life forever.”

Russ placed an emphasis on the fact that when someone signs up for lessons at the Birmingham School of Music, they’re getting the most thorough

Auburn/Opelika Birmingham Lake Martin

merry christmas!

As we reflect on the past year and on those who have helped us to shape our business, Three Sixty is overwhelmed with gratitude for you - our clients, our community, our family and friends. We are so blessed and grateful to be in this lovely community! We wish you a very happy Christmas Season and a New Year filled with peace and prosperity!

music education possible. All of the school’s instructors have degrees in music and music education, which is something Russ says many other schools and learning outlets aren’t able to say.

“We have a standardized curriculum for everything we teach here,” he says. “We make sure that all the students that come here are getting a proper music education, as well as teaching them the fun stuff they were interested in in the first place.”

Learning music is not only beneficial to the soul, but also to how a student learns, he says. A proper music education is proven to increase a school-age student’s SAT scores significantly.

“When you’re learning something like music, neuroscientists have proven that learning to play music with a proper education opens up a method of learning that otherwise would not be open with your standard academics,” he says. “Learning that standard is the reason why it makes things like math and verbal skills so much easier. It teaches you to communicate in a completely different way. The kid who stands in the corner

quietly suddenly has a voice. The kid who feels like he’s an outcast suddenly has a group of peers. That’s invaluable to these kids.”

Some of the teachers on staff were once students of Russ’s, and even if his students don’t become professional musicians, he hopes their lessons stay with them.

When asked if he could describe the joy he feels from teaching music, Russ chuckled and shook his head.

“I can’t,” he says. “It’s one of those things that it really is unexplainable in the same way I can’t explain the joy or the feeling of performing in front of others. I could never explain that. I’ve thought about it. I’ve tried to explain it to others, but I really can’t. I can tell you that when I’m teaching, it is never a disappointing experience for me to watch them try to learn and [to] see them grasp something that earlier eluded them.”

The school stands apart from others in that there are no long-term contracts, and lessons are continued as long as the students want to continue. Russ says as a result of that, the school’s retention rate is four times the national average

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of other music schools.

The school operates with an emphasis on positive reinforcement and encouragement as opposed to admonishing a student for not excelling at a certain rate. Students’ progress is recorded through what Russ calls “The Path of Progress,” which is a visual path painted on the wall that records how they’re doing. When students first sign up for lessons, they start in the standard lesson program, and their picture goes on the wall as a “Future Performer.” After they’ve been at the school for three months, they are introduced to the “Performer Program.”

As students progress through the Path of Progress, they receive certificates and wristbands that acknowledge their accomplishment and eventually earn trophies, signaling their

“Every single piece of music created has one common thread. That is, it was created to evoke emotion.”

-Russ Maddox

graduation to the next level on the Path.

“One of the most unique parts about our school is that we don’t believe in annual recitals,” Russ says. “It’s not the recital part we don’t believe in, it’s the once-a-year aspect. We’re teaching performance art, and the only way to get good at performing is to perform with regularity. That’s not going to happen with a once-a-year recital.”

They have student concerts every month to allow them the opportunity to perform more regularly, and it gives students the opportunity to attend and relieve their own performance anxiety. The monthly student showcases are held at a local coffee shop in Bluff Park, which Russ says provides a casual and comforting environment for the students to perform. It’s all part of the positive reinforcement Russ pushes at the school, giving students positive incentive to continue their education and to remind them they’re doing a great job.

“I’d love to have 600 students and hopefully, we will one day, but regardless of how many we have, I’m happy that the ones we do have are really interested in learning music,” he says. “They’re coming to get some of that musical joy I’ve been talking about, and that never gets old.”

SCHOOL SPORTS&

THE FORCE IS STRONG

Liberty

Park resident Grant Feely plays Luke Skywalker in Disney+ series, Obi-Wan Kenobi.

BY LAUREN H. DOWDLE PHOTOS BY LUCASFILM, BLAIR RAMSEY & PICTURES BY ANNA GRACE

SSome actors wait their whole lives to get their first big break. For Grant Feely, it took less than a decade to land a role in one of the most iconic franchises of all time.

Now 10 years old, Grant’s dream to become an actor was born after watching behind-the-scenes footage from Netflix’s Stranger Things three years earlier. “I saw how things worked and all of the different things about making a film, and I wanted to be a part of it,” he says.

When Grant expressed interest in acting, his parents took him to Birmingham Children’s Theatre, which is where they heard about Acting Out Academy in Vestavia.

The owner of the academy told his mother, Emily, he was really good and needed an agent. They took the advice and found an agent out of Atlanta and a manager in Los Angeles. Soon, he was auditioning for roles.

“We’re very blessed in Birmingham to have that as a resource,” Emily says. “They were great advocates for Grant and getting him started with his little hobby. We can’t say enough good things about them.”

His acting career began to take off, and he has since been in Netflix’s Creepshow and Echoes, Roku’s Panhandle and a music video, too. But his biggest role to date took him to a galaxy far, far away.

Grant landed the role of a young Luke Skywalker in the Disney+ miniseries, Obi-Wan Kenobi, which was released this past summer. The show follows Obi-Wan Kenobi and his time in exile, following the downfall of his former apprentice, Anakin Skywalker, who turned into Darth Vader. Obi-Wan is tasked with

watching over Anakin’s son, Luke, which is where Grant’s part comes in.

But when Grant first auditioned for the part in April of last year, he didn’t know it was for Luke—only that that they were looking for a boy who was 8 to 10 years old.

A week after his initial audition, Grant had an hour-long callback with the casting director—and a second call the day after where they asked to see every audition tape he’d ever done. By mid-June, he was flown out to Los Angeles for an in-person audition. He was offered the role in early July and told he’d play a young Luke Skywalker.

While the part was a secret until then, Grant had his suspicions that might be it the whole time.

“I was in the studio doing the final audition and saw Darth Vader walking down the hall,” Grant says. “They also put me against a cardboard cutout of Princess Leia.”

That didn’t make it any less

exciting when they told him what role he would be in. “When we found out, we called every person in our family,” Grant says.

One person he hadn’t anticipated hearing from was Luke Skywalker himself. Mark Hamill tweeted his support, telling Grant he was chosen for the role for a reason because they knew he would do a wonderful job as a young Luke.

“It was really shocking. I didn’t expect him to respond the day my name got released,” Grant says. “It

was a really nice thing to do. It kind of gave me confidence. He didn’t have to do that. It was amazing.”

While Grant and his family— including his two older brothers— were thrilled about the news, Emily didn’t know what to expect and was a little apprehensive going into the experience, considering the franchise’s considerable fandom. However, those fears vanished when they arrived for filming.

“I think everyone was just so

welcoming, kind and with no egos,” Emily says. “They respected him as an actor. I was really pleased with every aspect of it. It turned out to be a great experience.”

Instead of doing research to prepare for his part in the show, the team wanted him to do just the opposite.

“Before filming started, the director told me not to watch any of the films because she didn’t want me to act like Luke did in the future,” says Grant, who waited

”

“

I was super excited to see the actors, but he didn’t know who they were. I was nervous, but he wasn’t. They were just normal people to him.

–Emily Feely

until after filming to watch all of the movies. “She wanted me to act like a random kid since young Luke doesn’t know anything about the Jedi or force yet.”

The series was shot in Los Angeles, from the studio and locations in Manhattan Beach to a mining pit for the Tatooine scenes. Grant’s character can be seen in three episodes of Obi-Wan Kenobi

Actors like Ewan McGregor and Liam Neeson shared the set with Grant. Most would probably be intimidated by that star power—but not Grant.

“I was super excited to see the actors, but he didn’t know who they were,” Emily says with a laugh. “I was nervous, but he wasn’t. They were just normal people to him.”

The first day on set, though, Emily could sense Grant was a little intimidated by the large scenery and alien species like the Barbadelan and Onodone walking around. But by day

FROM ONE KID TO ANOTHER

Although Grant Feely is still a child himself, he has gained valuable industry experience and insight from his roles and costars. But, his advice for other children looking to break into acting might not be what some might expect.

“TRY NOT TO ACT. MAKE IT AS REAL AS YOU POSSIBLY CAN, SO IT’S NOT YOU ACTING— IT’S YOU BEING IN THE MOMENT WITH THAT PERSON, AND IT’S NOT FAKE,” GRANT SAYS.

He also attributes his success to the instruction and guidance he received during his acting classes. “If you can,” he adds, “you should probably find an acting class that helps you on this journey.”

Helping navigate the mental health system for teens and children.

Services are FREE and confidential. Services provided by phone are not medical advice and should not be considered as such.

Services are provided via telephone by licensed mental health professionals who recommend the most appropriate mental health resources.

PIRC is available seven days a week, from 8 a.m. to 11 p.m.

PIRC is NOT a crisis or suicide hotline. Call for mental health resources.

The PIRC is generously supported by funding from the Anne B. LaRussa Foundation of Hope, United Way of Central Alabama, the Daniel Foundation of Alabama, and the Walker Area Community Foundation.

two, he fell right into his role.

“I loved it. I thought he did a great job,” Emily says. “I watched them film it all, so it was surprising to see what was actually used in the series.”

One of Grant’s favorite parts about being in the series was the stunt work he got to do. “On the last episode, there’s a chase scene where we’re going in the mountains, and I’m on a wire,” he says. “Being able to do the stunt work was really fun.”

Something that surprised Grant about working on the series was how many shots the crew took. “There were so many different angles they did with the camera. It took an hour

to do one 10-second clip,” he says.

When he isn’t in front of the camera, he likes to screen-write, read, travel and cook with his family—and just be a kid. The nowfifth grader at Vestavia Hills Elementary Liberty Park has been able to balance both school and acting with the help of the school.

“His teachers have been amazing,” Emily says. “Being able to act and be in public school has allowed him to keep his friends and just be a 10-yearold boy.”

It will be hard to top his role as a young Luke Skywalker, but Grant’s next goal is to land a leading role. He also enjoys horror and action movies and says he hopes to work in those, too.

“I want to be in the most fun things as possible and have the most experiences possible—and meet the most stars I can,” Grant says.

To follow his career and upcoming roles, check out grantfeely.com.

FIVE QUESTIONS FOR

Dawn Norris

Vestavia Hills Elementary West Counselor

BY LILY PRINCE PHOTO COURTESY OF EMILY REIN

For Vestavia Hills Elementary West (VHEW), Aug. 15-19 is a special week. To begin the school year in an exciting way, the school produces West Way Week. West Way Week is a week dedicated to teaching the students at VHEW the school’s core values: kindness, respect and responsibility. Here, the school counselor, Dawn Norris, talks about the significance of West Way Week.

How did the idea of West Way Week come about?

Dawn says that West Way Week was developed when the staff and a few of the moms at VHEW were trying to find a way to start the year off in an exciting way. They wanted a time to emphasize and celebrate the school’s core values. The week is a time to lay a foundation for the students about what the school believes in.

Why do you think good character should be emphasized in schools?

“I think that treating others kindly is just a human decency,” Dawn says. She believes that teaching children about the core values in school prepares them for their future in the world. She also says that learning about kindness, respect and responsibility gives kids the life skills that they need. “Every day, being together with 800 kids and 100 adults, we interact like a family,” Dawn explains. “So, we have to have certain guidelines and certain ways that we act toward each other that are expected of each other.” She explains that the behavior of the children should always come back to those three core values.

How are each of the character traits specifically being taught to children during West Way Week?

The week starts out on Monday with a day of celebration for all of the core values where the students read books that demonstrate the three character traits. The students also received a magnet of the facility dog, Merlin. Tuesday is the first day that the school begins to emphasize the core values individually, and it focuses on kindness. All of the teachers incorporate kindness into the activities and lessons for the day. The same is done on Wednesday, which centers around respect and Thursday, which is reserved for responsibility. Friday wraps up the week with a celebration of team work. Dawn says that on this day, everyone wears a T-shirt for their favorite team, and the students learn about what it means to work together as a team.

Since the end of West Way Week, have you noticed a difference in the way children at VHEW are treating each other?

“We obviously talk about the West Way every single day,” Dawn says. The West Way

is not something that is only emphasized during West Way Week and forgotten throughout the rest of the semester. Instead, it is the behavior that is expected of students every week. West Way Week introduces those ideas to the students at the beginning of the semester. She says rather than improvement, she has seen that the kids are still using the right treatment towards each other.

What was your favorite part or activity of West Way Week?

As the school counselor at VHEW, Dawn does not always get to experience the events and activities being done in classrooms during West Way Week. One of the things that she did get to see and enjoy were the Merlin magnets. “The kids loved those,” she says. The faculty receives a West Way cookie, which she says they enjoy. Dawn adds that another thing that she really appreciates during West Way Week are the character packs. “They are basically little lessons that myself and my co-counselor create around those core values,” she explains. “They usually include a story book and then a class discussion and some kind of activity.”

BY MICHELLE LOVE PHOTOS BY JAMES AND RACHEL CULVER

Pictured are Davenport’s Pizza Palace owners Yates Norris and Amanda Thames.

WWalking into the new Vestavia location of Davenport’s Pizza Palace, guests are met with the new, sleek aesthetic of the space but also met with that familiar and comforting smell of the classic Davenport’s pizza that the community has grown to love over the past 50-plus years.

The restaurant’s owners, Yates Norris and Amanda Thames, are cousins, and the Davenport’s legacy is something they’ve been exposed to their whole lives. They both grew up visiting the Mountain Brook location, playing games and watching the pizzas being made. When it came time for a new generation to take over, the idea of bringing someone in from outside the family was out of the question.

Amanda has worked as an owner for 12 years, while Yates has been an owner for four years. In their time as owners, they’ve maintained the classic nostalgia the restaurant has become known foralong with that signature Davenport’s square slice.

The road to fame was not overnight, according to

Yates. When his grandfather opened Davenport’s Pizza Palace in its original Mountain Brook location in 1964, the idea of a pizza place wasn’t as typical a business model as it is today. Yates says the initial reaction to a restaurant that solely sold pizza in Mountain Brook was skepticism.

“It was a tough sell in the beginning,” he says. “He was having to go door-to-door to give out samples to people because it wasn’t like how it is now where everybody is familiar with pizza.”

After gaining the community’s support, Davenport’s became a local hit, and the rest is history. It’s never left that spot in Mountain Brook Village on Cahaba Road. Though it’s expanded in size over the years, it’s never stopped offering that same nostalgic charm that has helped build such a strong fan base in its 58 years of existence.

The new location looks to offer that same feeling of nostalgia with an updated (and larger) space. The menu is the same as its predecessor location, but there’s a bar with televisions for people to come

enjoy a beer and watch a game or two. The Vestavia game room has additional arcade games for kids to enjoy, including the always popular Galaga.

It was important to both Yates and Amanda that they bring that same classic feel people love about Davenport’s to the Vestavia location. The Vestavia location is approximately 400 square feet bigger than its original space, according to Yates, and Amanda says the layout spoke to her not just as a business owner, but also as a patron.

“We loved the space when we saw it, and I thought this was for sure a place I would want to take my family,” she says. “We thought it was a really great fit for us, and we just tried really hard to keep as many elements as we could from the original. We know that even though it’s in Vestavia, people want to come and experience those elements

that make us who we are.”

Long-time followers of the pizza restaurant may remember when the owners bought a Vestavia location in the 1980s. Due to the building being sold, the location ended up closing, though the idea of reopening a Vestavia location never left the owners’ minds.

“It’s tough to make that jump, but after we took over we started talking about it casually,” Yates says.

At the end of 2020, Yates and Amanda started looking at empty spaces around town for a potential spot. Yates saw that Moe’s Southwest Grill was leaving the location it had resided in for more than 10 years, and he decided to see if it was an option.

“I cold-called the people who owned the complex, and I asked them if we could work out a deal for

Who needs Santa when you have Shoefly!

that space and they said, ‘Actually, we may have a bigger space that may work better for y’all,’” he explains.

According to Yates, Davenport’s interest in Vestavia City Center’s space coincided with the property owners’ vision for revitalizing the area.

“They were very intentional in what they wanted to put in the area,” Yates says. “They told us how

they wanted to put in the greenspace area for families, and Taco Mama was going to come aboard; so, they were very happy to get us in here to make it work.”

Almost two years later, the location opened on Thursday, Sept. 22. They had originally planned to open in fall 2021, then as the pandemic pushed everything back, they ultimately decided September

100 Colonial Parkway, Suite 100 Alabaster, AL 35007

100 Colonial Parkway, Suite 100 Alabaster, AL 35007

2022 was their best bet. They even held a special ribbon cutting with the city of Vestavia on Thursday, Oct. 27.

Yates says the opening is a long time coming, and they’re happy to be open and providing quality pizza to the community.

“It’s all worked out nicely so far, and we’re happy to be here,” Yates says.

Having the Mountain Brook location already established provided Yates and Amanda with a vision for what they wanted the Vestavia location to be, but building another Davenport’s location from the ground-up was another story.

“We know how Davenport’s should look and how it should run,” Yates says. “But, how do you start from scratch?”

The Vestavia location offers the business new opportunities for growth that the Mountain Brook location simply wasn’t able to, he adds, including outdoor seating and oven space.

“They’re different, but there are a lot of similarities,” Yates explains. “The biggest things that were lacking in Mountain Brook were the outdoor seating, which we have here aplenty, and also the oven space. Our kitchen in Mountain Brook is so small. We can only fit two sets of ovens

there; whereas, here we’re able to fit three sets of ovens back there, so we can cater to everybody who wants to eat here and get them their pizzas in a timely fashion.”

Catering is another aspect the Vestavia location helps with.

“One thing we can’t do at Mountain Brook is catering for large parties, so if somebody wants to order 30 pizzas, we have to choose between doing that and taking care of our dine-in customers,”

Yates says. “Here, we’re able to handle everything and do catering and also have a good handle on dine-in services.”

Amanda credits their manager at the Mountain Brook location for so much of their success.

“It definitely gives us some peace of mind,” she says. “[The restaurants] are not identical in appearance, but it’s the exact same processes at both stores, so that makes it easier to replicate and do the same things when everything is consistent at

both locations.”

Yates says they were very fortunate to be able to build the staff they currently have, though they’re always looking to bring more people aboard the Davenport’s family.

As with the Mountain Brook location, Amanda says being involved with the community is a top priority, and she explains how they want to repay the Vestavia community for their kindness and support in the few months the Vestavia location has been open. Amanda wants the restaurant to be involved with local charities and school functions, while providing another location for families to make memories. Memories, she says, she never tires of hearing.

“It’s just been so cool and inspiring, and it never gets old that we hear stories everyday about what Davenport’s means to people,” Amanda says. “The other day, we had a man come in from Virginia who said he always stops by the Mountain Brook location, and he’s been coming by since 1964 whenever he’s in town. He remembers what it looked like originally. Hearing stories like that is so special. To be that place that people go for birthdays every year or they come here every year on the night they got engaged at Davenport’s, it means so

much that we’re a part of people’s memories and a part of their lives.”

“It’s cool to expand on the legacy our grandparents started and to make it our own,” Yates adds. “It was certainly a lot easier for us now because you know everybody knows Davenport’s. All the leg work was really done for us, but it’s really surreal that all these people want to come partake in something that you create. We appreciate it, one hundred percent.”

No matter the occasion, Yates and Amanda both agree Davenport’s will always strive to provide that family-friendly atmosphere people have grown to love. Amanda says she wants people to know that the restaurant is not only for families — it’s run by a family, and that adds to the comforting and familiar feel that has made Davenport’s so special.

“We are a third-generation, family-owned restaurant, which is something we’re very proud of,” she says. “We hope that people see us as the neighborhood spot, and just because we have a limited menu, doesn’t mean that you aren’t getting something special every time. It’s a very unique atmosphere and very nostalgic, and we want to provide that to the community as long as they’ll have us.”

DINING GUIDE

2408 PELHAM PKWY

4330 CREEKSIDE AVE • HOOVER, AL 35244 TWINPEAKSRESTAURANT.COM • (205) 203-9461

Twin Peaks Twin Peaks never stops short when it comes to the menu. Holiday season is here! Book your holiday gathering with us. Whether you are in the mood for comfort food or something on the lighter side, we offer made-from-scratch meals that satisfy everyone. Be sure to try our 14 oz. New York Strip Steak.

Half Shell Oyster House

Half Shell Oyster House is here to serve original New Orleans-inspired dishes with Southern hospitality in a distinct and vibrant French Quarter atmosphere. The restaurant is open for lunch and dinner. Try out the Smoky Bacon Shrimp & Grits, which are cheddar cheese grits smothered in a smoky bacon cream sauce with shrimp and topped with shredded Parmesan, chopped bacon and green onions. Lunch is served from 11 a.m. - 3 p.m. Monday - Friday!

Troup’s Pizza Chili and soup have arrived at family-owned Troup’s Pizza for the fall and winter. Smoked brisket chili is a regular staple for the period while the soup rotates weekly. As always, they are also proud to offer fresh, delicious and unpretentious pizza, sandwiches and salads the whole family will enjoy right in your backyard. Chef Terrill Brazelton and his wife, Ashley, have brought their passion and commitment to locallysourced foods by supporting local farmers. Troup’s Pizza is open for lunch Tuesday-Saturday and open for dinner every night.

Vestavia Hills

Local Roots

Local Roots is deeply rooted in the belief that a good meal has the power to bring people together, and breaking bread with others is an experience that feeds our souls as much as it feeds our bodies. Much of our inspiration comes from our generational roots, which lead to our scratch kitchen full of locallysourced ingredients. Whether you want a hearty burger, Southernstaple chicken sandwich or a lighter salad, we’d love to feed you. So grab a friend to share a table, and don’t forget the granddaddy fries!

Mama Coco Mama Coco Cantina in Vestavia is now open! Try the flavorful Salmon served with white rice and cooked with corn and Mango Pico de Gallo. Any dish pairs perfectly with one of the signature margaritas! Mama Coco Cantina has been a Shelby County favorite, and they are ready to serve the Vestavia community! They’re open every day throughout the week for lunch and dinner. They cater, too!

TACO MAMA Stay hungry and be thirsty. At Taco Mama, we believe in supporting our local businesses and serving our guests the freshest ingredients possible. We believe any time is a good time for a margarita. We believe in ice cold cerveza. We believe in people helping people.

Rock N Roll Sushi Sushi is a staple rice dish of Japanese cuisine. At Rock N Roll Sushi we guarantee an amplified dining experience that will have you coming back again

HOME STYLE&

DECK THE HALLS

Samford University’s first family opens their home with warm hospitality to celebrate the season.

BY MADOLINE MARKHAM PHOTOS BY LAUREN USTAD & SAMFORD UNIVERSITY

TThe stately home on Shades Crest Road next to the First Church of the Nazarene is abuzz with parties each Christmas season. With its decked halls, trees and mantles, come hundreds of students, alumni, leadership groups and home tour attendees—all welcomed in by Samford University’s President Beck Taylor and his wife, Julie. While the couple lives in the house with their family, they’re quick to admit it’s a “working home”—and one always ripe with hospitality.

When the Taylors moved into the home in June 2021 with the start of Beck’s new role on campus, they brought some of their family’s furnishings to mesh with others owned by the university for the home. To those they added their own style to it,

working with Sallie Aman at Ruby Ansley Interiors with fresh white paint over its jewel tones and new wallpaper, draperies, rugs and reupholstering.

In addition to the Taylors’ family pieces, the house also features art gifted to the university that the Taylors can rotate and pull from university archives, such as an oil painting of Howard College’s (Samford’s previously named) first president Samuel Sterling Sherman from 1841 that they had restored and reframed.

While the home was built in the 1980s, its architecture was based on a historic home in Natchez, Mississippi, that makes it feel more true to that home’s era. In 2007, Samford purchased the private residence, which conveniently overlooks

Ballroom

This spacious event space overlooking Samford’s campus was added onto the back of the house after the university purchased it to be the president’s home. Garland adds a festive flair to its fireplace for Christmas.

the campus, and added on a ballroom for events, as well as a garage and new master suite to complete the home’s current footprint—all with architecture by Neal Davis of Davis Architecture.

Today, Julie and Beck live in the house with their 15-year-old daughter, Chloe, a sophomore at Vestavia Hills High School, and their golden doodle, Peanut. Their son Zach, 26, is a recording artist in Los Angeles, and their daughter, Lauren, 24, is a medical student at the University of Washington.

When Julie isn’t wearing her hat as First Lady of Samford, she’s hosting even more events in her home as the executive director of the Legacy League. The Legacy League is an auxiliary of the university that raises money for scholarships for students with significant financial need and

challenging life circumstances. Julie says these scholarships impact not just the students’ lives, but also their families’ lives, too. In this role, she opens the home for the Legacy League’s annual Christmas home tour, which features different homes in the area each year but always includes the Samford president’s home where guests are treated to live music and refreshments.

To prepare for the tour and all the home’s many Christmas parties, Julie works with Rita Daffinson of RD Designs to design Christmas trees, mantles and more, all with a white, gold and greenery aesthetic—plus red bows on the front door. It’s all a part of the warmth of hospitality that is more than evident as you talk to Julie about her love for welcoming in countless students, parents and community members into her home.

Dining Room

The biggest difference in this formal space now is its ivory walls, which show off the large tapestry on one of them in a whole new way than it did against the previous red color. Julie topped their personal china with fresh clippings from the yard for her place settings.

Living Room

This room is home to one of five trees in the house that Rita Daffinson of RD Designs styled for Christmas in a white and gold angelic style that Julie requested. Rita designed greenery on the home’s fireplace mantles as well.

Entryway

Gold ribbon dresses this elegant two-story home up for the holidays.

Library

The Taylors’ son is a recording artist, so it’s no surprise the whole family likes to listen to music by the fire in this cozy, wood-paneled room off the kitchen. Not pictured are the room’s built-in bookshelves, which house items Beck was given on his travel to Asia as a part of his previous university president roles, to attend conferences and to teach as an economist.

Solarium

Light spills into this intimate room off the living room as a part of its design, which is based on a historic home in Natchez, Mississippi.

Dickens Christmas Village

This collection of the Taylors reminds them of the time their family has spent in London and Oxford — first for a summer with college students and later for conferences and other family trips.

ABOUT THE HOME TOUR

The Samford University Legacy League’s annual Christmas Home Tour, presented by ARC Realty, raises money for scholarships for students with significant financial need and challenging circumstances. Now in its 12th year, the tour features the Samford President’s home plus several other carefully curated and festively decorated homes in the area.

CHRISTMAS HOME TOUR

Thursday, Dec. 8 10 a.m.-2 p.m., 4-8 p.m.

Advance tickets are required and may be purchased at samford.edu/legacyleague.

Downs takes the Crown

MOTHER OF MISS AMERICA 2005 AND CAHABA HEIGHTS RESIDENT, SUSAN DOWNS, WINS THE 2022 MS. SENIOR ALABAMA PAGEANT.

BY LILY PRINCE PHOTOS BY HOLLI HOBBS PHOTOGRAPHY

TThe Ms. Senior Alabama pageant shines a light on senior women in the state and encourages them to be a part of their community. The organization strives to make the pageant a way for senior women to form bonds with each other, which is precisely what enticed Susan Downs to compete. The Cahaba Heights local, who also teaches at Mountain Brook Elementary School, had never competed in a pageant before. She decided to enter Ms. Senior Alabama and won.

While Susan had not competed in a pageant prior to Ms. Senior Alabama, that is not to say that she is a stranger to the industry, entirely. Susan has been involved with the Ms. Alabama system for years, volunteering as a judge and director for local pageants. She has also coached several contestants on interview skills.

When her daughter, Deidre, needed funding for college, Susan suggested that she navigate the pageantry world because of the scholarship opportunities. Deidre took her mother’s advice and started competing. She won her first preliminary pageant, Miss Shelby County, and that win qualified her for Miss Alabama. Deidre won Miss Alabama in 2004 and continued on a winning streak.

In 2005, Deidre went on to compete in Miss America. While she is quite talented and bright, her win came as a pleasant surprise since she was not as experienced in pageants as contestants of Miss America typically are. Against the odds, she won, making hundreds beam with joy.

Susan recalls watching Deidre be crowned, saying, “It felt surreal.” Susan was proud of her, but it was not something she had ever anticipated. While Deidre may

have some history competing in pageants, Susan had never been in one herself. The closest thing she can think of resembling a pageant that she was in was a beauty walk she did in high school, but it was not exactly the same as a pageant.

When Susan met some of the contestants from the 2021 Ms. Senior Alabama pageant at a gala, she was impressed by the friendship and camaraderie the women had. She was also struck by the purpose of the pageant.

“I believe very strongly in their mission,” Susan says. “The mission of Ms. Senior Alabama is to empower senior women to stay active and involved in their communities.” Susan wanted to be a part of this and decided to enter the pageant in 2022. Just like her daughter in 2005, Susan defied expectations and won the pageant.

Susan explains that while she may be new to pageants, her service to the school systems remains her top priority.

The 2022 Miss University of North Alabama winner Claire Hendrickson performed a dance routine that delighted fans of all ages.

After graduating from Samford University and the University of Louisville, Susan started her journey in education. Now in her 43rd year of this profession, Susan recalls how her extensive experience as a teacher, a principal and an educational consultant have cultivated her love for investing in children.

Susan briefly retired in 2017 but came back to school when she was offered a position teaching gifted students at Mountain Brook Elementary School. That is where she continues to teach now. She says her favorite part of teaching is the children. They are a big part of why she came back. While

she

“I believe very strongly in their mission. The mission of Ms. Senior Alabama is to empower senior women to stay active and involved in their communities.”

-Susan Downs

JOIN THE MS. SENIOR ALABAMA ORGANIZATION

Those who are interested in competing in Ms. Senior Alabama 2023 can go to mssenioralabama. com/registration-forms and follow the instructions to register.

does love her job, she feels like there are a few misconceptions about what it is really like to be a teacher.

To be frank, Susan explains how she wishes people understood that teachers work more than when school is in session. She thinks that teachers are not always given the recognition they deserve for all of the work that they do.

Outside of the classroom, Susan helps children in other ways besides educating them. She was a single mom for a portion of her life. She raised her two children on her own and during that time, she noticed some things she did not like. She wanted her kids to stay active, but she discovered that having kids in sports can be expensive.

This prompted her to start a nonprofit organization called Kids Play Alabama. The non-profit provides funding to low-income families, so that children can stay active in sports without their parents having to worry about the financial burden.

“We believe that every child deserves

a chance to play,” Susan says. “If a family is struggling financially, their kids sometimes don’t get the same opportunities as other kids.”

Susan believes every child should stay active for many reasons. First and foremost, it helps kids stay healthy. Secondly, children who are active in sports tend to perform well in the classroom. She also believes that it teaches kids a good deal about working together and being leaders.

“It’s a win-win,” she says. “Kids [are able] to have fun but at the same time develop the skills that will help them in life.” Since last January, the organization has received more than 500 applications.

Through helping kids in the classroom and on the ballfield, Susan is impacting future generations of students to both believe in themselves and be inspired that they, too, can beat the odds and achieve anything they set their minds to. Thank you, Susan, for being the change that inspires many.

Up-and-coming musician Evan Riley performed live at the Ms. Senior Alabama pageant, impressing the crowd with her voice’s beauty.

WALTON

A LEGACY OF LEISURE

South Walton’s 26 miles of sugar-white sand beaches in Northwest Florida offer an all-natural escape, yet perfectly blend modern amenities, worldclass cuisine and small town charm into an unforgettable experience.

The days move a bit slower here, and it’s this simplicity – a day spent creating memories at the beach – that draws generations of families back to South Walton.

KINDLING BONDS

While our 16 beach neighborhoods offer beyond-the-beach activities to please everyone in your circle, the focus keeps coming around to our sugar-white sand. Find your perfect beach at VisitSouthWalton.com.

Classic Crescent City

By Christiana Roussel | Photos Contributed

Of all the times to travel to New Orleans – early spring for Mardi Gras, late spring for Jazz Fest – winter might become your new favorite time. As with every season, the Crescent City loves a celebration and a party. Winter holidays are no different, so plan your getaway now to enjoy all the city has to offer, without breaking a sweat.

Photo by Jeff Anding.

Songwriters for generations have tried to distill the essence of New Orleans into their lyrics. From Fats Domino’s “I’m Walking to New Orleans” where he croons, “And I’ve got no time for talkin’ I’ve got to keep on walkin’ ‘Cause New Orleans is my home That’s the reason why I’m goin’ Yes, I’m walkin’ to New Orleans,” this is a city that gets down into your soul.

5 hrs., 4 min. 344 Miles

Tuscaloosa

Alabama

Photo courtesy of New Orleans & Company.

WHERE TO STAY

While there are myriad hotel options in New Orleans, we offer these three which are, quite honestly, destinations in and of themselves. Each offers more than a place to lay your head at night. Just as any host here would do, they want to provide more than a cozy bed and a hot shower. They want to embrace and engage you, they want you to experience their version of New Orleans, they want you to fall head-over-heels in love with the city the way they have. Also, traveling at the holidays will ensure each is gussied up for your visual delight.

Windsor Court

The epitome of old-world style and grace, the Windsor Court Hotel sets the standard for European-level travel in New Orleans. The stately downtown hotel has undergone extensive renovations and upgrades in recent years, which only adds to her charm. From the moment you enter the cloistered walls of the motor court, you will feel wellcared for. Rooms are large and sumptuous. Make time for high tea on the club level; it might become your new favorite tradition. windsorcourthotel.com

Hotel Peter & Paul

New Orleans is a city which revels in rebirth, at every turn. You will find that here in this former school, church and convent that has been given new life as an intimate hotel in the heart of the Marigny. Within a 10-minute walk of the hotel’s front doors, you can explore the entire neighborhood. Bring your camera: the zippy, brightly-painted Creole cottages deserve to have their pictures taken. hotelpeterandpaul.com

Hotel Saint Vincent

Located in the Lower Garden District, Hotel Saint Vincent is as funky as it is elegant. The building itself dates back to 1861 but was renovated and completely updated in 2021. Save time for a pre-prandial nibble at the hotel’s all-day restaurant, San Lorenzo, which is named for the patron saint of cooks. Set aside some of your travel budget for a little pop in to By George, the hotel’s lifestyle boutique, which has the most covetable curated selection of things you never knew you needed but somehow cannot live without. saintvincentnola.com

Pictured is one of Windsor Court’s signature cocktails. Photo courtesy of The Mayfield Group.

Photo by Douglas Friedman.

WHAT TO DO

There’s simply no way to do all you’ll want to do in New Orleans in one visit. Then again, that is kind of the beauty of travel – we get to come back again and again to the places we love.

Vue New Orleans

Start your visit with a visit to Vue New Orleans. From 34 stories up, you’ll get a fantastic 360-degree overview of the city, literally and historically. Whether this is your first or 50th visit to the Crescent City, you will come away, learning something new about the city. vueorleans.com

The Roosevelt Hotel, a Waldorf Astoria Hotel

No holiday visit to New Orleans is complete without visiting the show-stopping display at the Roosevelt Hotel. This year’s display will be revealed on Tuesday, Nov. 29 and promises to feature more than 112,000 lights, 1,600 feet of garland and 4,000 glass ornaments. The hotel lobby spans an entire city block and is truly breath-taking. While the little ones take in the Roosevelt Teddy Bear Tea, perhaps the grown-ups can pop in to the Sazerac Bar for a libation. therooseveltneworleans.com

Christmas at the Waldorf Lobby in the Roosevelt Hotel. Photo by Teg Folks.

Photo by Christian Horan Photography.

New Orleans City Park

New Orleans does so many things well and an abundance of public green spaces is certainly one of those. City Park offers more than 1,400 acres of space to picnic, walk or bike. At the holidays, the largest grove of live oaks in the world get dolled up in thousands of lights for the Celebration in the Oaks. This annual tradition has been going strong since the 1980s with holiday-themed displays, which are practically guaranteed to inspire more than a few sugarplum-filled dreams.

neworleanscitypark.com

Tour the city by bike

Winter months are ideal for being outside and New Orleans’s flat terrain makes bike riding a breeze. There are scads of itineraries online, so be sure to pick one or two before you go and make a day of it.

neworleanscitypark.com

Photo by Zack Smith.

Photo courtesy of New Orleans & Company.

Alexa Pulitzer

To meet Alexa Pulitzer, acclaimed paper and leather-goods designer, is to meet New Orleans. The woman is clearly besotted with her hometown, and her daily work girds that passion. From her ceaseless support of Preservation Hall, to the custom goods she’s created for the National World War II Museum, to the whimsical royal alligator that is synonymous with her affection for this place, Alexa is a New Orleanian through-andthrough.

As Hurricane Katrina bore down on her beloved city, a very pregnant Alexa and her husband fled to Birmingham to literally ride out the storm. Friends housed them, found her an OB/GYN and a printer, so that she could continue to operate her business. Alexa adds, “To this day, I am forever grateful to the incredible people of Birmingham, who opened their arms and hearts to me. They left a magical impression on me and showed me the true meaning of generosity, hospitality and ‘Bless Your Heart!’”

So, before you hit I-59 South, you simply MUST visit Alexa’s eponymous website, alexapulitzer.com, and read what is basically her love letter to New Orleans entitled “Guide to NOLA” at the bottom of the homepage. She updates the listings quarterly to reflect new additions and closings. Learn more about Alexa and check out her work at alexapulitzer.com

Gras World

For many, New Orleans is synonymous with Mardi Gras. To be sure, the annual celebration between Kings’ Day and the start of Lent is a sight to behold and experience. Perhaps responsible for more than $1 billion in revenue for the city, Mardi Gras is serious business. Go behind the scenes at Mardi Gras World to learn the history of Mardi Gras, see how floats are made and maybe take more than a few Instagram-worthy photos. mardigrasworld.com

Take a cooking class

In a city that is renowned for its multitude of represented cuisines, why not take a cooking class and bring the flavors home with you? Explore more at the New Orleans School of Cooking neworleansschoolofcooking.com or do a deeper dive at the Southern Food and Beverage Museum southernfood.org/events-1 or book a private class at New Orleans Culinary and Hospitality Institute nochi.org.

Mardi

Photo courtesy of Alexa Pulitzer.

Photo courtesy of New Orleans & Company.

Photo courtesy of NOCHI.

Photo courtesy of NOCHI.

uAlex Beard Studio – Equal parts work space and studio, travel gallery and wanderlust zone, Alex Beard’s studio is a must-visit. His work is inspired by a love of animals and travels to Africa and is teeming with what he calls “abstract naturalism.” Kids will marvel at the intricacies, and adults will feel a yearning to own a piece. Do it. You’ll never regret buying the art you love. alexbeardstudio.com

uHome Malone – New Orleans gets down in your soul, and you’ll find yourself wanting to bring that bonhomie and joie de vivre back to Birmingham with you. Pop into locally-owned Home Malone for fun door décor or yard art that will remind you of this holiday trip, anytime of year. homemalonenola.com

Stroll Magazine Street

Spend an afternoon bouncing between the fantastic retail emporiums that line this beloved street. You are bound to knock out your entire holiday shopping list in an afternoon – that is, if you don’t get distracted by all the pretty things you want for yourself. Not to be missed:

uDunn & Sonnier – More than a florist, more than an antiques shop, more than you can imagine on every surface and wall. These are the folks responsible for the famed rose display in the lobby of the Windsor Court Hotel – go see them in person and bring home a treasure for your own home. dunnandsonnier.com

uPerlis – Located way uptown, Perlis is the go-to clothing shop here, carrying such brands as Barbour, Peter Millar and local brand TASC. But what you might also know them for is their signature crawfish logo, which will put you in a New Orleans state of mind wherever you are. perlis.com.

Photo by Richard Nowitz.

Pictured is Alex doing what he loves: painting. Photo by Bryan Tarnowski.

WHERE TO EAT

You could close your eyes and throw a Mardi Gras doubloon and hit some place great to eat in New Orleans. Be it tables clothed in white linen or weathered wooden high-tops flanked by worn barstools, the same love and pride goes into all the food this town serves up. Make reservations where you can, pack extra patience when you must wait in line. This is by no means an exhaustive list but just a great place to start.

Chemin à la Mer

This sexy and sophisticated spot atop the Four Seasons in downtown New Orleans offers a beautiful river view, with a menu featuring so much of what chef Donald Link and his team do best: take the freshest local ingredients and simply elevate them. Think blue crab boulettes, duck confit, oysters. cheminalamer.com/neworleans.

Frankie & Johnny’s

This uptown neighborhood joint bears the patina of decades of pitchers of local beer, discarded oyster shells and more than a few tall-tales told. Grab a seat and order a couple dozen chargrilled oysters to start – you can look at the rest of the menu later. frankieandjohnnys.net.

Photo by Zack Smith.

Try some oysters at Chemin à la Mer on your next trip! They won’t disappoint.

Photo by Paul Broussard.

Seafood is one thing New Orleans gets right everytime.

Domilise’s Po-Boy and Bar

There are as many iterations of poboys in New Orleans as there are Mardi Gras krewes. You just have to find the kind you like. But the basics must include the freshest bread (usually from Leidenheimer’s bakery) and something good stuffed in between – it could be fried shrimp or oysters but might also be alligator sausage or roast beef. Grab a stack of po-boys at Domilise’s Po-Boy and Bar and head to Audubon Park for a makeshift picnic. domilisespoboys.com.

La Boulangerie

During Mardi Gras season, La Boulangerie turns out some of the most fantastic King Cakes you’ve ever seen (ask them about The Elvis). But this Magazine Street bakery and sandwich shop is renowned year round for the caliber of their fare, which includes croissants, turnovers, bread pudding, savory biscuits, quiche, sandwiches with Butcher ham and Comté cheese, tarts, pies and really great coffee. laboulangerienola.com

Mosquito Supper Club

Founded to celebrate the bounty of the seafaring community that surrounds the Crescent City, the Mosquito Supper Club menu mirrors those waters, with an ebb and flow of what the fishermen haul in. Go hungry and curious; you won’t be disappointed. Reservations through Tock and via email only. mosquitosupperclub.com

Make This at Home

Even if you can’t get to New Orleans for the holidays, you can still have a bit of that Big Easy feeling at home, with this boozy eggnog from Cochon Butcher. Go ahead and double (or triple) the recipe. Jars of this holiday treat will be exactly what your friends and neighbors hope you’ll gift them when you come a-calling.

Cochon Butcher’s Boozy Butcher Eggnog

Ingredients: u 12 eggs u 2 cups sugar u 2 cups milk u 2 cups half-and-half u 2 cups heavy whipping cream u 2 ½ cups spiced rum u ½ cup bourbon u 1 teaspoon salt

Directions:

1) Separate the egg whites and yolks into two clean mixing bowls. There can be no yolks in the white mixture, or they won’t mix correctly.

2) Whip the yolks until light, then add sugar and salt and whip until thick and white and form soft peaks.

3) Fold the whites into the yolks.

4) Add all the dairy and alcohol. Mix thoroughly. Pour into mason jars and seal; label and share, share, share!

Photo by Todd Coleman.

Photo by Joyce Bracey.

La Boulangerie's "King's Cake" is fit for a king, himself. Photo courtesy of New Orleans & Company.

Photo courtesy of Cochon.

GIFT GUIDE holiday

1

1. Handmade Stoneware Tree

These handmade, hand-painted stoneware trees will add to any holiday decor throughout the holiday season and into the new year! Available individually or as a pair. $40-$72. Crestline Pharmacy. 60 Church St, Mountain Brook, AL 35213. (205) 871-0317. facebook.com/ crestlinepharmacy

2. Hale Bob Perfume

Wildflowers Touched Softly by Freshness and Warmth, a Truly Sweet Escape. Floral/ Fruity/Powdery. $50. ShoeFly. 2823 18th St S, Birmingham, AL 35209

3. 14k Yellow Gold 2 Stone Oval and Pear

Shape Ruby w/ Diamond Halo Ring

Dazziling Holiday Eye Candy. This beautiful 2 stone oval and pear shape ruby with diamond halo ring is sure to make this holiday one of a kind. Tis the season to sparkle, shine and shop local. Follow us @southeasternjewelers. $1,265. Southeastern Jewelers. 5299 Valleydale Rd, Birmingham, AL 35242. (205) 980-9030. southeasternjewelers.net

4. Bellemonde Men’s Travel Bags

This brand’s name comes from the French words “belle,” meaning beautiful, and “monde,” meaning world, which is where you can go with these faux suede bags. Whether traveling across town or an ocean, these durable, stain resistant bags will go with you. $20-$32. Rocky Ridge Drug Co. 3346 Morgan Dr, Vestavia Hills, AL 35216. (205) 259-7100. rockyridgedrugco.com

5. Fritsy drinking glasses

With their multi-purpose shape, Fritsy drinking glasses by Saban Glass effortlessly transition from a good-looking durable workhorse to dinner party conversation piece. Best of all, they are available in a jewel box of colors to complement your style. Whether you’re serving up a G&T or water with citrus, our Fritsy drinking glass makes everything look artful. $58. Table Matters. 2402 Montevallo Rd, Mountain Brook, AL 35223. (205) 879-0125. table-matters.com

6.

Julie Vos Charlotte Necklace

Our necklace features glittering marquise-cut stones and delicate freshwater pearls set in a lovely cluster design and suspended from a 17” adjustable rope chain. $135. Bromberg’s. 2800 Cahaba Rd, Mountain Brook, AL 35223. (205) 871-3276. brombergs.com

7.

Velvet Blazer, Inspired Necklace, Gold Purse, & BudDha girl Bracelets

Step 1 Add BuDhaGirl Bracelets to any outfit $35.00- $135.00. Step 2 Pick out a Velvet Blazer $109 with inspired necklace $139. Step 3 Complete your outfit a beautiful Gold satchel to carry all your essentials. $35-$139.00. Hami Boutique. 300 Carlow Ln Suite 101, Birmingham, AL 35242. (205) 834-8833. shophamiboutique.com

8. Oak Street Hair Products

Our detangling spray creates shine without weight. This revolutionary leave-in conditioner strengthens, smooths and detangles. Daily restoring shampoo heals damage caused by daily stresses and styling. Smoothing balm will make the most curly hair soft and straight. All made in the USA, cruelty-free, paraben-free and color-safe. $15.50-$25. Oak Street Hair Group. 125 Oak St, Birmingham, AL 35213. (205) 879-3222. oakstreethairgroup.com

9. Gift Box

Delightfully scented plant-based soaps and skincare products that are handmade daily in our local shops/makeries make wonderful gifts! Our artisan soap bars, bath bombs, shower oils, body butters, body scrubs, laundry soaps & scent boosters all SMELL WONDERFUL! $5 to $59. Buff City Soaps. 3 location stores. See ad for details. buffcitysoap.com

10. 14K Yellow & White Gold Stackable Diamond Bracelets

We have many stackable diamond bracelet styles in stock now, so shop early for the holidays! Diamond stack bracelet prices start around ~$1,300.00, before sales tax. Start around $1,300.00. Shay’s Jewelry. 1678 Montgomery Hwy 103C, Hoover Al 35216. (205) 978-5880. shaysjewelers.com

11. Russel Quilted Crossbody with Fringe Beige

Fringe is in! This quilted crossbody has a suede feel texture with accent fringe on the front magnetic flap. The bag is separated into two compartments by a center zippered section. The chain crossbody strap is removable and pairs perfectly for any occasion! $60. High Cotton Boutique. 415 Chelsea Crossroads, Chelsea, AL 35043. (205) 677-2200. highcottonboutique.com

12. Jordan Skirt

Crafted with vegan leather, this SHUG miniskirt with a bias cut fringe detail and a concealed black zipper closure is the fashion statement of this season. $330. Dukes Clothier. 53 Church St, Mountain Brook, AL 35213. (205) 739-2244. dukesclothier.com

13. Barefoot Dreams Blanket

Wrap yourself in the irresistable softness of Barefoot Dreams. This fabulous throw is a celebrity favorite and a conversation piece to add to any home decor. Pair with a spa gift card for ultimate luxury and relaxation! $180. La Bella Skin & Wellness. 8000 Liberty Pkwy Suite 120, Vestavia Hills, AL 35242. (205) 994-8906. labellabirmingham.com

14. The Pooley Vase

The Pooley vase is a fully glazed ceramic bud vase and it takes all the work and thought out of flower arranging. Simply pop a stem in all or a few of the tubes and voila! Each tube is attached to the base and is individually separated so you can fill just one or fill them all. $33.95. Sweet Pea Garden.

15. Vintage Turkish Yastiks

They are 100% wool and handmade. Extremely durable and easily cleaned. Perfect for bathrooms, doorways, laundry room or mudrooms. Hazel House. 1816 28th Ave S, Homewood, AL 35209. (205) 908-7755. hazel-house.com

16.

Necklace

The perfect statement necklace for the holidays is this vegan leather fringe necklace that is made in Italy by Lelya Gans. $175. Effie’s

17. All About the Eyes Holiday Gift Set

Give your eyes a boost this season with this limited-edition eye essentials kit featuring Obagi’s Elastiderm Eye Cream, Nu-Cil Eyelash Serum and Nu-Cil Eyebrow Serum. Your eye area will experience a firmer, more resilient look while your lashes and brows become more luscious, thicker and more defined. $300 for $450 value.

Rousso Adams Facial Plastic Surgery. 2700 US Hwy 280 Suite No- 300 W, Birmingham, AL 35223. (205) 930-9595. drrousso.com

18.

Cookie Fix Tins

Cookie Fix tins make great gifts for friends, neighbors, and clients. Prices start at $27 for a tin of eight cookies to $128 for a triple stack of 40 cookies. $27- $128. Cookie Fix. 2854 18th Street South, Homewood, AL 35209. (205) 582-2623. cookiefix.com

19. Holiday Travel Mugs

While you’re shopping for Christmas decor, grab a few gifts too! These 17 oz. cermaic cups with a decorative box will be the perfect little something for someone on your list this year! $19.99. Home Accents. 2750 Pelham Pkwy Pelham, AL 35124. (205) 621-2039. homeaccentsonline.com

20. Claude Dozorme

Claude Dozorme bottle openers, pizza knives and cheese knife sets make the perfect holiday gift. They are handcrafted in France and made of stainless steel with an acrylic handle. $25-$100. A’Mano. 281 Rele St, Mountain Brook, AL 35223. (205) 871-9093. amanogifts.com

21. Gift Basket

Customize a gift basket for your friends and family from your favorite Columbiana Shops! Your favorite bottle of wine from Just a Tish paired with special gift items from The Farm Company will make the sweetest gift this Holiday Season. Give us a call for more details! Just a Tish & The Farm Company. 113 West College St. Suite B Columbiana, AL - 105 A S Main Street #132, Columbiana, AL. (205) 6715267 and (205) 671-5477. justatishwine.com and thefarmcompany.net

22. Melatonik

Give the gift of glowing skin with Melatonik. It repairs, restores and brightens the skin. This non-irritating retinol-alternative stimulates natural antioxidant defenses and restores elasticity. Melatonik is a great pick for all skin types, even sensitive skin. $165. Gunn Dermatology. (205) 4157536. gunndermatology.com

23. Field Guide Whiskey

The dos and don’ts for whisky-food pairings. How to discern complex flavor pattersn to get the most ouf of your glass. How to conduct a tasting. $25. Antique Market on Linden. 2828 Linden Ave, Homewood, AL 35209. (205) 490-1162

24. Inside Out Hoop Earrings

These gorgeous earrings are available from one carat up to...the sky is the limit! They come with patented Core Lock to keep the earrings safely on your ear. Pick one out today for any of the beautiful women in your life! Starting at $2,750. Cummings Jewelry Design. Heights Village, 3166, Birmingham, AL 35243. (205) 298-9144. cummingsjewelrydesign.com

25. Personalized Wooden Tray

These round, wooden trays make great gifts for the holidays, weddings or any other occasion! The 18-inch circle with handles creates endless possibilities for its use. Personalization is included and can say anything you want. Available in 2-3 days. $69. Fun Stuff. 3370 Morgan Dr, Vestavia Hills, AL 35216. (205) 823-3688. funstuffgifts.com

26. Best of Doctor Babor Set

Our Best Of DOCTOR BABOR Set was curated by experts to promote healthy, glowing skin. Everything you need to lift, firm, even skin tone & texture. Cost is $179 with a $412 value. $179. Woodhouse Spa. 125 Summit Blvd, Birmingham, AL 35243. (205) 905-7676. birmingham. woodhousespas.com

27. Cosabella Allure Sleep Set

This cami/boxer sleep set features luxurious and soft lace fro Cosabella’s Allure collection. Color shown is Odisha Gray. $140. The Lingerie Shoppe. 2403 Montevallo Rd, Mountain Brook, AL 35223. (205) 871-8994. thelingerieshoppemtb.com

28. Baobab Collection Luxury Scented Candles and Home Fragrances

All of Baobab Collection’s raw materials come from Europe: Each glass is mouthblown in Poland, a country renowned worldwide for its glass artisans. It is a mineral wax (paraffin) selected for its burning quality. The wicks, made of Egyptian cotton, also come from Germany, and the precious leathers of the limited editions come from the best Italian tanneries. Each olfactory creation is an invitation to an exotic journey. The packaging is designed and manufactured in Belgium. $65 and up. Heezie’s. 81 Church Street, Suite 101, Mountain Brook, Alabama 35213. 205-874-6278. heezies.com

29. Holiday Earrings

These lightweight, trending, seed bead earrings are perfect for any holiday gathering. We offer a huge variety of jewlery for all styles and personalities including formal, bridal and everyday wear. $16. Consigned Design. 72 Fulton Springs Rd, Alabaster, AL 3500. (205) 664-7540. consigned.design

30. Casserole Dish Set

This woven cassrole holder with included Pyrex is great for every recipe in your file. It is a 9x13, 3qt dish. $110. The Cook Store. 2841 Cahaba Rd, Birmingham, AL 35223. (205) 879-5277. thecookstoremtnbrook.com

31. Assorted Gift Boxes

The box features Pearl of my Heart, Rome and wide inner beauty bracelets in Gold Angelina from faith-based jewelry designer, Ronaldo. The box also includes an all-natural olive oil, Italian dip seasoning, a Whitco Bar Mixer and Prosecco bubble bath. Perfect for girls’ night or solo relaxation session! Prices vary depending on bracelet & size of oil. The Mountain Brook Olive Co. 261 Rele St, Mountain Brook, AL 35223. (205) 703-9003. mountainbrookolive.com

32. Nest Candles

Mantooth Interiors is your home for all Nest collections and fragrances. Our large selection of holiday scents make the perfect gift for friends and family! $49. Mantooth. 2813 18th Street South, Homewood, AL 35209. (205) 879-5474.

33. Viking Toys Play Pirate Ship

Viking Toys has made award-winning, high quality toys for kids to explore their world with all their senses. With timeless Scandinavian design where form reflects function in a minimalist and stylish way, these are toys that engage, entice, excite and entertain. And there are no batteries required, it’s kid-powered play. $28. Homewood Toy and Hobby. 2830 18th St S, Birmingham, AL 35209. (205) 879-3986. homewoodtoy-hobby.com

34. Squishable Massive Hamburger

This 32 squishy inches of human-sized hamburger might look good enough to eat but is much better at cuddles! Not into meat? We offer many Squishable products in a variety of shapes and sizes. $250. Swoop. 251 Rele St, Mountain Brook, AL 35223. (205) 803-0886. swoopisfun.com

35.

Pajama Shorts

GiGi’s carries fun printed soft fleece pajama shorts that all girls adore! Each style of shorts have different vibrant patterns and are the perfect gift for any occasion. Starting at $23. Gigi’s. 3140 Heights Village, Birmingham, AL 35243. (205) 593-4586. gigisbham.com

36. Beaded Purses

Help them take their outfit to the next level this holiday season with our selection of beaded coin purses and crossbody bags! $20-$70. Village Dermatology. 2900 Cahaba Rd, Mountain Brook, AL 35223. (205) 877-9773. villagedermatology.net

37.

Matisse Harlow Boots

These western-inspired boots were made for the holidays! With padded insoles and embellished rhinestones, these boots will make any outfit shine this season. $159.98. Shoe Station. 664 Montgomery Hwy, Vestavia Hills, AL 35216. Text STATION to 67464* to receive the best coupons + offers. *Message & data rates may apply. Terms & Conditions: ShoeStation.com/FAQ.

38. Bogg Bag Half Brrr Ombré Collection

Bogg® Brrr and a Half - Fills 1/2 of the Original Bogg® Bag (leaving room for towels, dry snacks and anything else you’d like to bring along). Has a shoulder strap for use with our without the Original Bogg® Bag. Also, has one exterior pocket for keys, a cell phone or other small goods. $35. Village Drug. 300 Carlow Ln #116, Birmingham, AL 35242. (205) 713-8393. villagedrugco.com

39. Tahiti

“America’s Largest Outdoor Kitchen Manufacturer.” Luxury Grill Islands and Bar Islands Your Way. Delivered in 5-10 business days with same day assembly. Visit our showroom for more details. Paradise Grills. 5413 US-280 Suite 104, Hoover, AL 35242. (205) 885-8161. paradisegrillsdirect.com/ showroom/hoover-outdoor-kitchens

A DIFFERENT WAY TO EDUCATE

Evangel Classical Christian School (ECCS), a ministry of Evangel Presbyterian Church (PCA) and located in Alabaster, Alabama, provides a unique approach to education that seeks to develop leaders who are equipped to transform the culture for Christ. All ECCS classes are taught through the lens of Scripture to support an integrated Christian worldview and to shape students’ minds as well as hearts. Students are not expected only to memorize facts for tests, but they are also encouraged and taught to think critically and logically about the world around them and to apply what they are learning to benefit themselves and others.

Evangel seeks to partner with parents to prepare students for their lives through a unique, three-

phased approach to their education that includes the schools of Grammar, Logic, and Rhetoric. Designed with a child’s developmental stages in mind, Grammar School is grades K3 through 5th, Logic is 6th through 8th, and Rhetoric is 9th through 12th. Subjects are not approached as individual disciplines, but rather as a holistic way to look for God, His work, His purpose, and His glory in all creation and through all that they are studying. The classical approach to learning helps build the foundation for students to express themselves thoughtfully to reflect truth with precision, conviction, and clarity.

Parents who are looking for an educational option where their children are nurtured spiritually

and intellectually can find a perfect fit at ECCS. “Classical education is, I think, the only educational system that really gives kids something beautiful to want,” Julie McGuffey, a Rhetoric school faculty member said, “because I want them to love the God who created them and who created all of these subjects.” The “something beautiful” that Mrs. McGuffey speaks about is a love of learning that is fostered by a sincere love of God, His creation, and His will for their lives, for “in Christ, all things hold together” (Colossians 1:17).

Students are not only prepared to have a successful career in college and in the workforce, but they are also guided as a whole person, educated to pursue a life glorifying to God. The school aims for each child to flourish in wisdom, courage,

justice, self-control, faith, hope, and love. Bible classes at every grade level and chapel services further promote spiritual maturity. Student life is also an integral part of ECCS. With clubs like drama and scholar’s bowl, athletics, and a unique house system, students have many options to be involved in various activities.

Ultimately, ECCS seeks to glorify God by shaping the hearts and minds of covenant children through a distinctively classical and unapologetically Christian education with the goal of raising up ambassadors for Christ. If you value a partnership with a school that provides a classical Christian education, then you should consider Evangel Classical Christian School. For more information, please visit the school’s website at evangelclassical.com.

“Classical education is, I think, the only educational system that really gives kids something beautiful to want.”

-Julie McGuffey, faculty

CAHABA HEIGHTS ANNIVERSARY CELEBRATION

PHOTOS BY JAMES AND RACHEL CULVER

On Saturday, Aug. 27, Cahaba Heights residents joined together in fellowship to celebrate the 20th anniversary of the community being annexed into the city of Vestavia Hills. The celebration featured live music by the M-80s, local vendors and delicious food.

Moxley, Sellers, Katie and Adam Campbell

Bradley and Millie Wilkes

Ralph, Brittany and Lucy Norman

Jordan and Noel Hand

Jeremy and Alison Owen with Allison, Hannah and Stewart Joyner

Courtney, Sage, Gaines and Georgia Bradley

Chris, Claire and Pate Williamson

Todd and Kathryn Dorlon with Jeff and Kendall Snider

Vestavia Hills Police Department and Roy Brook

Reid, Callan, Whitney and Adelyn Stewart

Cohen Pickering, Mary Liza Fields and Eleanor Hudson

Mallie Cay Fields and Amelia Ray

BY JAMES AND RACHEL CULVER

Saturday, Sept. 3, merchants gathered in the Vestavia City Center to sell goods and bond with the community.

PHOTOS

VESTAVIA HILLS UNITED METHODIST CHURCH’S FALL FESTIVAL

PHOTOS BY JAMES AND RACHEL CULVER

On Sunday, Sept. 25, Vestavia Hills United Methodist Church held its annual fall festival, which featured family entertainment, free food, music, carnival games and face painting, too.

Matt and Allison Chapman with Maggie and Libby

RayLynn, Madison, Darren and Charity Fish

Hope and Ella Holmes

Maggie Hayes, Claire Creel, Brady Ferrell and Emily Meeks

Laura and Emily Vinson with Kristin and Sarah Grace Mizerany

Julie, Alex and Haynes Reynolds

Maggie, Beckett and Wilder Yates

Katie, Maggie and Livi Duett

Alyssa and Mary Beth Weyandt

Michelle, John and Anna Cole with Terry and Martha Mummert

Rachael Hayes and Anna Watts

The White family

Jacob, Sally and Francis Flynn

Claire, Michael and Finely Covington

PHOTOS BY JAMES AND RACHEL CULVER

On Wednesday, Oct. 26, Vestavia Hills United Methodist Church held its annual Trunk or Treat festival, which featured carnival games, family-friendly activities, decorated trunks and candy galore.

Nancy Mosley, Alison McCall, Junie, Pearle Smith, Faith Lenhart and Kenzie Butler

Marketplace

Vestavia Hills Magazine • 205.669.3131

Automation Personnel Services

Hiring IMMEDIATELY For: Automotive Assembly, General Labor, Production, Clerical, Machine Operator, Quality, Carpentry, Welder, Foundry. Positions In: Calera, Clanton, Pelham, Bessemer, McCalla. Walkin applications accepted. Clanton (205)280-0002. Pelham (205)444-9774.

Bama Concrete Now Hiring: Diesel Mechanic 4 Years Minimum Experience. CDL Preferred. Competitive Pay. Great Benefits. Apply in person: 2180 Hwy 87 Alabaster, 35007

$80,000+ Yearly Potential Sales positions available at Burton Campers. Please call Mickey Price for phone interview: 205-668-0075

Chilton and Shelby County Treatment Center Now Hiring Masters in counseling/social work and related fields. Email resume to: donnajoiner53@gmail.com Or call 205-755-4300 for more information.

Kelly Education • Shelby County Schools • Hiring Substitute Teachers. Limitless opportunities for passionate people! • Free pre-hire training • Paid orientation • Ongoing professional development • Steady, yet flexible, work • Weekly pay • Your preference of schools. Contact Anne Gamble: O: 205.682.7062 M: 205.532.1122 anne.gamble@kellyservices.com

Marble Valley Manor. Affordable 1 and 2 Bedroom Apartments for Elderly & Disabled. Many on-site services! 2115 Motes Rd, Sylacauga. 256-245-6500

•TDD#s: 800-548-2547(V) •800-548-2546(T/A).

Office Hours: Mon-Fri, 8am-4pm. Equal Opportunity Provider/ Employer

South Haven Health & Rehab

NOW HIRING!!! • LPN’s & RN’s

-$5,000 Sign-on Bonus for FullTime shift • CNA’s

Apply in person: 3141 Old Columbiana Rd Birmingham,AL-35266

Become a Dental Assistant in ONLY 8 WEEKS! Please visit our website capstonedentalassisting. com or call (205)561-8118 and get your career started!

Now hiring RN’s and LPN’s throughout Alabama! $250 community referral bonus for RN’s and LPN’s. Sign-on Bonuses available at select locations! For more information please contact: Paige Gandolfi Call/text: 724-691-7474 pgandolfi@wexfordhealth.com

Ubique Technologies is hiring forklift operators and production workers.

Starting pay $12.50hr up to $15hr. Apply via Indeed or in person at 1919 7th St S Clanton, AL 35045

O-FLEX METAL FINISHING Maintenance Technicians: 2nd Shift Monday-Thursday 2:30pm-1am Weekend Shift Friday-Sunday 6am-6pm Responsible for maintenance of O-Flex facilities & equipment across all lines & departments. Oversight of preventative maintenance programs. Coordinates continuous improvement activities with Maintenance Team Leader. Starting pay $19-$28 BOE 725 Keystone Drive Clanton, Al 35044

O-FLEX METAL FINISHING Quality Technician Inspects incoming materials, work-inprocess, & finished products.

Maintains inspection and test records. Responsible for control of suspect and/or nonconforming materials and respective records including scrap, defect, and returns. Completes tasks required to submit customer PPAPS, CARS, Internal Audits & O-Flex Business System requirements. Utilizes PLEX Database and heavily relies on the use of tablets, laptops, desktops, and barcode scanners.

$13.50-$16.75/hour

725 Keystone Drive Clanton, Al 35044

O-FLEX METAL FINISHING Facilities Maintenance Technician: Monday-Thursday 4am-2:30pm

Performs routine maintenance tasks in one or more fields (carpentry, electrical, heating, ventilation, air conditioning (HVAC), plumbing, etc.). Cleaning & other tasks as assigned. Fulltime, nonexempt hourly position, reporting to Facilities Supervisor.

Pay $19-$28 BOE

725 Keystone Drive Clanton, Al 35044

VestaviaHillsMagazine.com

O-FLEX METAL FINISHING Shipping/Receiving Material Handler Operates “Sit-Down Front Fork” Lift Truck in a Safe and Efficient Manner in close proximity to personnel and equipment. Must be able to move pallets and racks of material & parts to assist the Department Supervisor/ Team Leader & Production Associates in the efficient daily process of fabricating, anodizing, and assembling quality parts to meet our customer’s delivery requirements. $13-$16.25/hour. 725 Keystone Drive Clanton, Al 35044

O-FLEX METAL FINISHING Rack Mover 1st & 2nd Shift Responsible for the movement of all product & strip racks to and from the anodizing system per the “Cell Flow Process” and “Operational Lay out”. Responsible for 5S of all individual trash cans on the production floor as determined by supervision or other. Starting pay $10.50, $1 shift differential. 725 Keystone Drive Clanton, Al 35044

Dogwood Plumbing LLC – Master Plumber, Master Gasfitter. Licensed & Insured. Senior Discounts. Plumbing • Drain • Gas 205-864-2369 dogwoodplumbingllc@gmail.com

NOW-HIRING CLASS-A CDL DRIVERS in the Birmingham & Childersburg Area.

• Clean driving record and drug test required • Piggyback lift experience a plus • Home Nightly • Benefits offered. Contact: april@ blairblock.com 256-378-3345

Quantum Logistics Hiring Class A Driver. Montgomery, AL. Full or part time. $.48-$.55 per mile. Paid weekly. BCBS Insurance. Home weekend EZ Pass and prepass. Safety & Fuel Bonus. Apply online www.qtmlog.com Call (334)2888106.

NOW HIRING!!! BEST WESTERN PELHAM

• FRONT DESK

• HOUSEKEEPERS

• HANDYMAN “RETIREES ARE WELCOME” CALL OR TEXT 205.908.1305”

BOOKKEEPING QuickBooks Online. Monthly reports, account reconciliations, sales tax payments, W-2 or 1099 payroll. “Pete” Stewart 205-908-7103 pete.keepsbooks@gmail.com

SHELBY CABINETS INC. IS LOOKING FOR AN EXPERIENCED CABINET INSTALLER/BUILDER. MONDAY-FRIDAY COMPETETIVE PAY CALL 205.365.3223.

TOWN OF WILSONVILLE JOB OPENING POSITION: TOWN CLERK COME TO TOWN HALL, 9905 NORTH MAIN STREET FOR JOB DESCRIPTION AND APPLICATION APPLICATIONS WILL BE TAKEN FROM AUGUST 15 – AUGUST 31

Experienced Termite Technician or someone experienced in routeservice work and wants to learn new profession. Work-vehicle/ equipment provided. Must drive straight-shift, have clean driving record/be 21/pass background/ drug test. Training provided. Insurance/401K offered. M-F 7:00-4:30 + 1 Saturday/month. Pay $13hr. Send resume to facsmith@ charter.net

MVP Landscape • Mowing • Edging • Weed Eating • Pruning • Pine Straw • Mulch FREE ESTIMATES! 256-267-4578

University Baptist CDC Pre-K In Montevallo NOW HIRING Auxiliary teachers for First Class 4-year-old Pre-K programs. School year positions with competitive pay. Auxiliary teachers must have Child Development Associate (CDA) or 9hrs Early Childhood Education/Development. Experience in First Class program & bilingual skills a plus. Also looking for substitute teachers. For questions or resumes, contact Lorrie Ozley: universitybaptistcdc@ gmail.com 205-665-4039”

VILLAGGIO COLAFRANCESCO

#1 Gelato in the world straight from Italy and a way of life where work is more than just another job. On Hwy 280 by Cowboy ACCEPTING APPLICATIONS Full & Part Time * Baristas * Cashies * Management Offering Competitive Pay Closed on Sundays Call for an Interview: 205-593-4221

NOW HIRING Custodian/Event

Set-up Performs various duties, Including cleaning and maintaining Civic Center and set-up/ breakdown of events. Pay begins at $14.75/hour, with BCBS insurance, and retirement included in the benefits package. Applicants must have reliable transportation and drug test required. Please contact: 205.978.0166 for application and additional details.

Rusty’s Pool Tech, LLC Rusty offers swimming pool equipment diagnostics, repairs, replacements, programming, add ons and/or upgrades on the following…• Filters • Pumps • Heaters • Lighting • Automation and Variable speed pumps • Automation systems • Timer systems • PVC plumbing issues • Chlorinators • Salt systems • Salt/chlorine conversions • Filtration systems Rusty also offers Pool School for those who would just like to understand their pool equipment better. www.rustyspooltech.com 205.718.2898 (call or text) info@rustyspooltech.com

Now Hiring! Entry Level Field Maintenance Position Benefits include: BCBS Insurance 401K. PTO. Apply in person Bethel Water System 6485 Hwy 61 Wilsonville, Al. 35186

MACHINIST NEEDED

Competitive pay. Benefits. Please call 205-337-2140

WINDER NEEDED Competitive pay. Benefits. Please call 205-337-2140

ELECTRO-MECHANIC NEEDED Competitive pay. Benefits. Please call 205-337-2140

Call Wolf Furniture today! Great Prices! 205-224-3847

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Honoring our Heroes

Veteran’s Day Memorial

The city’s annual Veteran’s Day Memorial and celebration is special to Michelle. Her husband, Lt. Col. Gary Hawkins, passed away last year. He served with the U.S. Air Force and was a captain of the 767 aircraft with FedEx. Remembering those who make sacrifices to preserve our country’s liberties is one theme of freedom the chamber adamantly supports.

MY VESTAVIA HILLS

MICHELLE HAWKINS

President and CEO of the Vestavia Hills Chamber of Commerce

Building Relationships

Satterfield’s Restaurant

“Satterfield’s is my favorite restaurant,” Michelle says. “My youngest son co-oped with them his senior year. He now has joined the 117th Air Refueling Wing at the Alabama Air National Guard. Satterfield’s is a place of fellowship, where the owners invest in the staff to see them succeed in their passions.”

All for One, One for All Waldo’s Chicken and Beer

Partnering in Education

Coffee and Classrooms

As president and CEO of the Vestavia Hills Chamber of Commerce, Michelle says one of her favorite chambersponsored events is Coffee and Classrooms. This past month’s event took place at Dolly Ridge Elementary, which featured a school tour and talks with teachers on bettering school systems. Teachers and students alike remain a top priority for the chamber!

Community Events

Haunt the Hills

The community is always thinking of ways to foster fellowship. “Relationships are key,” Michelle says of engaging younger crowds. The newest event, Haunt the Hills, is in its first year and featured numerous local businesses passing out candy to trick-or-treaters in Wald Park. There were costume contests and even one for the dogs, too.

The chamber recently held a ribbon cutting ceremony at Waldo’s Chicken and Beer, which has exquisite food. The atmosphere is laid back and friendly. While this new eatery draws in crowds, other Cahaba Heights locals such as Troup’s Pizza and Tanology Spray Tan and Beauty Bar do well, too. The common denominator? “From the get go, everyone has supported one another. The volunteer work ethic of people is amazing. They dedicate time to help others in the community,” Michelle explains.