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Home and Garden; A Memorial Garden in Atlanta; Profile of Donnie Phillips, Landscape Architect; The Perfect House II; Two Remarkable Renovations; Shopping; Bless Their Hearts
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MAY/JUNE 2010 $3.95
noalamag.com
TWO REMARKABLE
RENOVATIONSTHE RETURN OF THE
PERFECT HOMEA FAMILY’S MEMORIAL
GARDEN
2 | No’Ala
1609 Darby DriveEnglish Village
Florence256-764-1237
CUSTOMIZE
IT!Find it…at The French Basket
May/June 2010 | 3
hat do you think of when you think of
home? No matter what image comes to mind, it’s a
special place. It’s where we laugh, spend time with our
family, and make our memories. Home is where we live.
We don’t mean to brag, but our Realtors understand
home better than most. And we back up our words with
an unbeatable track record, with more past Realtors of
the Year and Board presidents than any other local firm.
Each one of us is a hard worker and an expert in the
area’s Real Estate market. So no matter what your idea
of home happens to be, we’re just the people who can
help you find it. Welcome home, Shoals!
W What’s your idea of home?
• LaDonna Mansell • Vicky Phillips • Joy Long • Anne Bernauer • Quint Langstaff • Pumpkin Rhodes • Pam Minetree • Babs Campbell • Robin Smith Bowers • Vance Gray • Linda Boyd • Louis Bailes • BJ Baskin • Susanne Morris • Keith Bevis
• Kay Martin • Sue BeckhamContact us at Renaissance Realty • www.welcomehomeshoals.com • (256) 740-0706
4 | No’Ala
We can print that.
Printing • Office Supplies • Furniture • Gifts
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May/June 2010 | 5
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Original, Hand-Painted Chair by Deborah McDaniel
6 | No’Ala
{ contents}©
2010 Steve Co
le–ww
w.steveco
le.com
ON THE COVER A comfortable place to entertain… in this issue, No’Ala takes you inside someof the most beautiful homes in the Shoals to give you ideas and inspiration you might use in yourown. We also highlight some great outdoor spaces, including a story about a garden tribute bythe children and grandchildren (shown here) of Ann and Gene Harris. Residents of our area havealways been known for their talent and their hospitality—because when it comes to beautifulhomes, there’s no place like the Shoals!
May/June 2010 | 7
May/June 2010Volume 3: Issue 3
• • •
C. Allen TomlinsonEditor-In-Chief
David SimsManaging Editor/Design Director
Contributing WritersJan Hudson
Claire Stewart
Contributing PhotographersDanny Mitchell
Steve Cole
Contributing DesignersJustin Hall
Business ManagerMatthew Liles
Marketing Coordinator/Advertising SalesJeff Linholm
Advertising SalesJonathan Boatright
InternsBethany OliverClaire Stewart
Printing and DistributionPrinters and Stationers, Inc.
• • •
No’Ala is published six times annually by ATSA PO Box 2530, Florence, AL 35630
Phone: 256-766-4222 | Fax: 256-766-4106Toll-free: 800-779-4222
Web: www.noalamag.com
Standard postage paid at Florence, AL.A one-year subscription is $19.95for delivery in the United States.
Signed articles reflect only the views of theauthors and do not necessarily reflect the
views of the editors.Advertisers are solely responsible forthe content of their advertisements.
© 2008-2010 ATSA, All rights reserved.
Send all correspondence toAllen Tomlinson, Editor,
at the postal address above, or by e-mail [email protected].
Letters may be edited for space and style.
To advertise, contact us at:256-766-4222, or [email protected].
The editor will provide writer’s guidelines upon request.
Prospective authors should notsubmit unsolicited manuscripts;
please query the editor first.
No’Ala is printed with vegetable-based inkson 100% recycled paper.
{ contents}
10 Contributors12 Calendar16 Business Profile: Donnie Phillips22 The Return of the Perfect House46 Collecting: Matchstick Art50 A Regal Renovation on Walnut58 Shopping62 Ranch Re-Do in Edgemont70 A Memorial Garden74 Jan Hudson’s Black Thumb78 Twenty Questions for
Real Estate Professionals
8 | No’Ala
© 2010 Steve C
ole
I thought I had pretty good taste, but I certainly know when I’m out-ranked. In this issue of No’Ala, we take a look inside some of the most beautifulhouses in the Shoals, and I’m beginning to think I might need to step aside and letsome of these people take over the job of interior design at my house. The featuredhomes in this issue are comfortable, welcoming, and, in most cases, absolutely stun-ning. This is our second Home and Garden issue, but we learned last time that thisis one of the most popular issues we’ll create this year: there’s something about see-ing the homes that other people live in that inspires us to take a new look at our ownsurroundings, roll up our sleeves, and decorate. And in my case, it inspires me to giveup my pitiful attempts to self-decorate and call in the professionals. I want my houseto look like some of these!
You’re also going to learn a little bit about what a landscape architect does—and it’smore than just garden design! We’re taking an in-depth look at two houses that wererenovated from top to bottom, and we’ve assembled our second Perfect Home, withthe idea that it’s not always under one roof. Even our retail buying guide has prod-ucts for the home and garden that will make you drool. We hope this issue will be areference guide for a long time to come!
There are a couple of things we’d like to point out to our loyal readers, about this issueand about No’Ala in general. Last issue, our printing partner, PSI, switched us torecycled paper and vegetable-based inks, which give the magazine added brightnesswhile at the same time making us feel good about our environmental impact. Withthis issue, we’ve added 16 more pages and gone to a perfect-bound spine—thatmeans instead of staples, the magazine has a flat, glued spine. We also continue togrow our print quantities and our distribution! We’re able to grow because you con-tinue to read No’Ala, and you continue to patronize our advertisers. Our goal is tokeep bringing you the very best of the Shoals area—and we haven’t even begun toscratch the surface!
For those of you who subscribe, a note about what's coming. Our next issue, Enter-tainment, will once again include a surprise that only subscribers receive,underwritten by First Southern Bank. It’s one of the benefits of subscribing, so ifyou’re interested, please visit www.noalamag.com and get on the list! In September,we’ll also take a look at some of the most beautiful people in the region, and we don'talways mean physical beauty, although there's an abundance of that in the Shoals aswell. And then, believe it or not, it will be time for the holidays…we’ll be gettingpumped up about Christmas, and another year will be gone. Time flies when you’rehaving fun!
So, enjoy this issue. If you need me, I’ll probably be on the phone, trying to findsomeone to help me with just about every room in my house. This issue has givenme so many ideas!
May/June 2010 | 9
{ editor’s letter} BY ALLEN TOMLINSON
I give up.
10 | No’Ala
Allen Tomlinson writes advertising copy,marketing plans, articles for this magazine,and grocery lists. When he's not working,he’s counting the days until his second childgraduates from Sewanee (this May) and histhird graduates from Auburn (December,2011). Before he had children, he had a fullhead of hair.
David Sims loves to make things pretty—not necessarily a vocation that will save theWorld, but one that will at least make itmore pleasing to the eye. When he’s notworking on the magazine, he loves swim-ming, eating sugary treats, and singing inhis car.
Matt Liles loves Dr. Pepper, and likes hishamburgers sans ketchup, mustard andmayonnaise—thank you very much. Inaddition to his goal as a professional showersinger, Matt is a student at The Universityof North Alabama, majoring in entertain-ment publicity and promotion, and willreprise his role as managing editor ofNo’Ala’s entertainment issue this July. Matthopes to be just like Simon Cowell in thevery near future.
{ contributing staff}
That guy who carried your groceries theother day? That was Jeff Linholm. And theguy who got the door for you last night?Jeff, too. He was probably the same personwho picked up your garbage after theneighbor’s dog knocked it over, or compli-mented that new dress your husband didn'tnotice. Jeff acquired his boyish charmgrowing up in Cullman, Alabama, and con-tinued being an all-around good guy whenhe moved to Florence. Somehow he gotthrough school un-jaded with a degree inmarketing. When he’s not working, Jeff canbe found watching movies with friends orrunning and hiking local trails.
Jonathan Boatright is native of Waterloo,Alabama, and graduate of The University ofNorth Alabama. He doesn’t commute, butWaterloo is not that far away (really it’snot—honest). He is as dependable as a fox,charming as a sloth, and as southern as cot-ton. Really only one of these statements istrue—the rest are just compliments.
Danny Mitchell has photographed every-one in the tri-state region, when in aprevious life he owned the company thattook school pictures. These days, he says,
shooting pictures of animals (especiallydogs), No’Ala sessions, commercial photosand the occasional portrait or two are muchmore relaxing than trying to get an entireclass of fifth graders to smile.
Bethany Oliver is a senior at the Univer-sity of North Alabama and has been a partof the Shoals area her entire life. As a com-munications major, she enjoys reaching outinto the community and plans to continueworking with people in a non-profit fash-ion. Outside of class, Bethany spends a lotof her time working at the Sweet MagnoliaCafé and taking in the various talentthroughout the area. After graduating thisDecember, she hopes to be Nashville-bound.
Claire Stewart is a sophomore at UNAwith an English major and a marketingminor. She is originally from Vestavia Hills,Alabama. Claire is a member of AlphaGamma Delta, Habitat for Humanity, andthe UNA Honors program. She is ecstaticabout her internship with No’Ala and hopesone day to write for a publication much likethis one.
Jonathan Boatright
Allen Tomlinson David Sims Matt Liles Jeff Linholm
Danny Mitchell Bethany Oliver Claire Stewart
May/June 2010 | 11
12 | No’Ala
MayMay 1Rogersville First Saturday3:00pm–8:00pm; No admission; Live music and merchants line thestreets of downtown Rogersville. (256) 247-9449
May 1 and 2Center Stage presents The Adventures of Tom SawyerCurtain Lecture: 6:30pm, performance: 7:30pm on May 1; CurtainLecture: 2:00pm, performance: 3:00pm on May 2; Ritz Theatre, 111West 3rd Street, Sheffield, Alabama; 256.383.0533 or www.tvaa.netTickets Prices: In Advance: $10.00 for Adults, $8.00 for Students; Atthe Door: $12.00 for Adults, $9.00 for Students
May 3 and 4Ceramic Works by Paveen ChunhaswasdikulKennedy-Douglass Center for the Arts, 217 E. Tuscaloosa St, Flo-rence, AL 35630; 9am–4pm; 256-760-6379; No admission
May 5, 12, 19, 26Wednesdays in May–Music in the Park11:00am–6:00pm; Wilson Park, Florence; No Admission
Live music by area musicians can be heard throughout scenic Wil-son Park on Wednesdays in May. Bring a lawn chair or a blanketand enjoy excellent music in the fresh air and sunshine. Pack a pic-nic lunch or grab a hotdog from area vendors, as you sit back andenjoy the music.
May 7First Friday, downtown Florence
May 8The Country Shindig7:00pm; Muscle Shoals High School Auditorium, East AvalonAvenue; $7 adults, $5 children 6-12 years, age 5 & under free; Fam-ily oriented Country Music show featuring the host band“Showdown” and a variety of Shoals Area talent. (256) 415-0803
May 8PanacheAn elegant auction for Riverhill School; riverhillschool.org
May 13-16Shoals Community Theatre presents the Zodiac Production ofNoises Off7:30pm Thursday–Saturday; 2pm Sunday; Shoals Theater, 123 N.Seminary St., Florence, AL 35630; Cost: Adults $10; Students $8256-764-1700
May 15-16Arts Alive FestivalWilson Park, Florence; No admission; Stroll through beautiful Wil-son Park and enjoy this juried fine arts and crafts festival featuringartists from across the country. Great food and art activities forchildren make this fun event for the whole family.
May 15Dining With Friends 2010 Dessert ReceptionDavidson Center, U.S. Space and Rocket Center, Huntsville, AL,9:00pm-12:00pm
May 15Rabbit FestivalThe Park on Oak Street, Leighton; Saturday, 8am–8pm; No admis-sion
Unveiling of historic marker. Rabbit petting zoo, arts & crafts, musi-cal entertainment, antique tractors and farm equipment, mulewagons, antique car display and more. (256) 446-8477 or (256)446-5565
May 21Wine Tasting at Sweet Basil CaféJoin Sweet Basil Café and No’Ala magazine for Southern fare andwine pairings. Admission charged. Call (256) 764-5991 for reserva-tions.
May 23Edsel Holden Presents…2:00pm; Shoals Theater, 123 N. Seminary St., Florence, AL 35630Admission charged
In the Shoals, Edsel Holden is known as The Music Man. On Sun-day, Holden shares his favorite musical tunes in a performancefeaturing some of his favorite soloists.256-764-1700
May 29Fourth Annual Cystic Fibrosis Motorcycle Ride and AuctionMcBride School, East Avalon, Muscle Shoals. Biker’s registration8am-10am; ride 10am–12pm; lunch 12pm–1pm; auction at 1pm.Donations for the auction are appreciated and may be dropped offat attorney Tim Milam’s office on Main Street in Tuscumbia
Calendarof events
JUNE 26-27Helen Keller Festivalof the Arts
May/June 2010 | 13
May 29–30CASA Battle of the BandsRiverfront Park, Sheffield; Details to [email protected]
May 31Memorial Day CeremonyColbert County Courthouse, Tuscumbia; 11:00am; No admission
Special ceremony at the Circle of Valor, on the grounds of thecourthouse, to honor all military and to remember the price theypaid for our freedom.(256) 383-0783
JuneJune 1, 8, 15, 22, & 29Tuesday Evening Trolley ToursCorner of Sixth Street and Main Street, Tuscumbia; Two tours eachTuesday. Tours depart at 4:30pm, then again at 6:00pm; $5 per seat
Ride a Tuscumbia Trolley to enjoy an interesting commentary by aguide presenting the history of Tuscumbia and its significant his-toric structures. You will be welcomed into one historic home eachweek. (256) 383-0783
June 4First Friday in downtown Florence
June 4–July 10The Miracle Worker (STS Top 20 EVENT)Gates open at 6:45pm, play begins at 8pm, Friday and Saturdayonly; grounds of Helen Keller’s birthplace, 300 W. North Commons,Tuscumbia$10 reserved seating, $8 general admission(256) 383-4066
June 5Rogersville’s First Saturday
North Alabama African Heritage FestivalWillie Green Center, Tuscumbia; 10am–until; Free; Wallace Ricks(256) 381-1797
June 5 and 6Frontier Day Celebration10:00am–4:00pm; Pope's Tavern, 203 Hermitage Dr, Florence, AL256-760-6439
Step back in time and watch artisans in costume spinning wool,carving wood, working a forge, making brooms, creating cornshuck dolls, and playing dulcimers.No admission
Muscle Shoals Area Street Rod RunSpring Park, Tuscumbia; Free to the public, Saturday: 10:00am–4:00pm; Sunday: 9:00am–Noon; Registration fee to participate
This classic car show showcases all makes and models 1948 or ear-lier. Approximately 200 cars and trucks from across the country arerepresentative of these vehicles. (256) 381-3518, (256) 383-0783 or(800) 344-0783
Continued page 14
David Gardner, Coldwell Banker
Pinnacle Properties
2093 Florence Blvd,Florence, AL 35630Direct: 256.349.0514
www.DavidGardnerHomes.com
David Gardner is the Realtor® to
know when you’relooking for a spot
on the water or a home with a
pool to call your own.
14 | No’Ala
June 12The Country ShindigMuscle Shoals High School Auditorium, East Avalon Avenue7:00pm; $7 adults, $5 children 6-12 years, age 5 & under free
Family oriented country music show featuring the host band“Showdown” and a variety of Shoals Area talent. For more informa-tion: Michelle Bradford (256) 415-0803
Sheffield Founders DayRiverfront Park & Downtown, Sheffield; 10:00am to midnight; con-cert at 8:00pm; No admission except for small charge for children'sactivities; For more information: (256) 383-0250
June 18Wine Tasting at Sweet Basil CaféJoin Sweet Basil Café for delicious foods and wine pairings. Admis-sion charged. Call (256) 764-5991 for reservations.
June 17, 18, 19, 24 and 25Summer Stock at the Ritz presents Nunsense7:30pm; Ritz Theatre, 111 West 3rd Street, Sheffield, Alabama256.383.0533 or www.tvaa.net; Tickets: In Advance: $15.00 forAdults, $10.00 for Students; at the door: $17.50 for Adults, $12.50for Students
June 21–July 162010 Helen Keller Art Show of AlabamaTennessee Valley Museum of Art, 511 North Water Street, Tus-cumbia, Alabama; Exhibition Hours: Sunday, 1:00pm–3:00pm;Monday–Friday, 9:00am–5:00pm; Saturday, June 26th, 10:00am–3:00pm; Sunday, June 27th, 1:00pm–4:00pm; 256.383.0533 orwww.tvaa.net; Admission: Monday–Friday: $5.00 for Adults, $3.00for Students; Sundays: FREE; Saturday, June 26th–FREE; Grouprates available. Group reservations required.
June 21–July 16A Survey of Mastery in Contemporary CraftTennessee Valley Museum of Art, 511 North Water Street, Tus-cumbia, Alabama; Exhibition Hours: Sunday, 1:00pm–3:00pm;Monday–Friday, 9:00am–5:00pm; Saturday, June 26th, 10:00am–3:00pm; Sunday, June 27th, 1:00pm–4:00pm256.383.0533 or www.tvaa.netAdmission: Monday–Friday: $5.00 for Adults, $3.00 for Students;Sundays: FREE; Saturday, June 26th–FREE; Group rates available.Group reservations required.
June 26–27Helen Keller Festival of the ArtsSaturday, June 26, 9:00am–5:00pm; Sunday, June 27, 11:00am–4:00pm; Spring Park, Tuscumbia, Alabama; 256.383.0533 orwww.tvaa.net; No admission
June 276th Annual Lucky Ducky Derby3:00pm; Spring Park, Tuscumbia, Alabama256.383.0533 orwww.tvaa.net
Calendarof events Continued from page 13
Summer weddings. Outdoor par-ties. Barbeques. With innovativeand unique catering solutions forany type or size of event, fromsmall and intimate to large andlavish—dish will create the finestfood experience for your specialevent. Call us today to beginplanning, and make your nextevent fresh.
256.766.2414
open at 11:00 • monday–friday • 118 w. mobile st. • florence
dish makes it summer
May/June 2010 | 15
In February, 2010, U.S. News and World Report named Glenwood Healthcare as one of America’s Best Nursing Homes—one of only two in Alabama named to this prestigious list!
If you or someone you love is a candidate for rehab services, assisted living or long term care, ask around. You’ll probably hear our name a lot. We are dedicated to quality in rehab and long-term care, and we work to earn our great reputation every day. We want to give you a good experience to talk about, too!
• Rehab • Assisted Living • Long-Term Care
______________________________________
211 Ana Drive, Florence, AL 35630 • 256-766-8963 • www.glenwoodhc.com
16 | No’Ala
{ everybody’s business}
What I enjoy most is taking an idea and making it work. I can’t wait to get to work every day, and if I didn’t need the money
I would do this for free!
May/June 2010 | 17
Oh, sure, that’s how he got his start. Donnie’s father moved tothe Shoals to work with TVA as an electrician, but started cut-ting grass and planting shrubs as a part-time job. Pretty soon,it grew to become more than just a yard service, and TingaNursery was born. Donnie grew up surrounded by bloomingthings, and spent his time after school and during the summersworking with his twin brother, Ronnie, an older brother, Jimmy,and their parents in the family nursery.
Tinga was named for a family friend, Jake Tinga. The familyworked long hours, but it was fun and they built a strong busi-ness together. “I still have a problem with roses, though,” admitsDonnie, “because if I misbehaved I got sent to the rose house topull weeds.”
The work was hard, but life was good. That is, until 1970, whenDonnie’s father unexpectedly passed away, while Donnie wasstill a teenager. The family rallied and kept the business going,under the direction of Donnie’s mother and older brotherJimmy. Ronnie and Donnie even took turns going to college: ittook a little longer for the boys to complete their educations,but they did, and each worked hard to help support the brotherwho was in school. Just like the family nursery, educationbecame a family project.
“When it was my turn to be home working, people would bringtheir landscape plans to the nursery and ask for my help,” saidDonnie. “I would see things that would make more sense orwould look better, and I would suggest them. Pretty soon, peo-ple were asking me to help them with drainage problems and I
DON’T CALLDONNIE PHILLIPS
A NURSERYMAN.
TEXT BY ALLEN TOMLINSONPHOTOS BY DANNY MITCHELL
would pour sidewalks and build structures in their yards. Itexposed me to a lot of design styles, and I learned a lot.”
He also got to know Mac Smith, a local architect with Smith,Kranert and Tomblin Architects in Florence. Mac became hismentor, and encouraged him to go to school to become a land-scape architect. Donnie’s went to the University of Georgia,where he earned his degree in Landscape Architecture. There,he combined his hands-on knowledge of plants with the abil-ity to design outdoor spaces on a grand scale, incorporatingeverything from building outdoor structures to placing build-ings on a site and landscaping around them.
So, what is a landscape architect? “Landscape architects designoutdoor spaces,” said Donnie, “whether they are residential,public spaces and streetscapes, commercial projects or subdi-visions. Much of what I do has to do with site planning. I’veworked on large scale projects, like the UNA campus, and I’veworked on individual projects, like back or front yards for res-idences. But the land and the shape it takes drives every design.I analyze the space and design site improvements, place thestructures, design hardscapes, retaining walls, grading, vegeta-tion, and make sure the overall look is pleasing.”
One of Donnie’s first local design/build projects was RiversEdge Condominiums, overlooking Lake Wilson. Later, heworked on the Medical Mall in Tuscumbia, on Avalon Avenue.“Robbie Martin and Gene Aycock brought me the plans theyhad drawn up, and I looked them over and said I thought Icould do better. They told me to do it, so I did! They liked it, andthey especially liked the fact that the building was completed onbudget and on time.”
One of the most unique of Donnie’s projects was the conver-sion of the University of North Alabama from a regular urbancampus to a pedestrian-based one. Working with architects FitzHill and Hugo Dante, Donnie helped take out the streets andinstall the structures and landscaping that is in place today. Itwas their responsibility to implement the university’s MasterPlan, and they were a good team. The result is one of the mostappealing and beautiful campuses in Alabama—and probablyin the southeast.
Donnie created the comprehensive site plan for DoubleheadResort, and one project he particularly enjoyed was the StanelyRobbins project. In the early 1980s, Mr. Robbins, the founderof Florence-based flooring manufacturer NAFCO, began haul-ing in a million cubic yards of fill to create the island where he
I always shoot for longevity in my design, and I’m always asking myself ‘will it last?’ As far as I’m concerned,
that’s the real key to good design.
18 | No’Ala
May/June 2010 | 19
later built his home. Donnie was hired to design the site plan,including locating the driveways and decks. That projectearned him a prestigious Honor Award from the AmericanSociety of Landscape Architects, the Academy Award of hisprofession.
“The James and Earline McClanahan home in Muscle Shoalswas featured in Southern Living,” says Donnie, rattling off thelist of honors and awards his career has seen. Inez and EdselHolden’s swimming pool earned a 1988 Hall of Fame Award;the Rick and Linda Walter home earned the National Award ofMerit from the National Spa and Pool Institute… and the listgoes on and on. Donnie’s background in design and construc-tion has also led to building designs and additions, includingthe lodge at Doublehead, and the Harvey and Joyce Ann Rob-bins and Clyde and Penny Roberts homes on Wilson Lake
And that’s just a partial list from the Shoals. Much of Donnie’scareer has been spent designing and building outside the area,including a series of regional shopping malls in West Virginia,North Carolina and Virginia, and the Hilton Hotel and Con-ference Center in West Palm Beach, Florida. Donnie was alsoinvolved in the Birmingham Green Project, which is now amature and beautiful part of the downtown streetscape, andwhich won the National Landscape Award from the AmericanAssociation of Nurserymen.
“What I enjoy the most is taking an idea and making it work,”says Donnie. “I like working with the restraints of a site, andthen turning it into something that works for everyone and thateveryone likes—including me. Most days, I can’t wait to get towork, and if I didn’t need the money I would do this for free!”
People are learning more about what a landscape architectdoes, but the biggest mistake most people make is not gettingDonnie involved early enough in the process. “The mark ofgreat landscape architecture is when the project appears to havegrown out of the site,” Donnie says. “I could save people a lotof money if they would start with the site plan.”
Donnie’s heroes are Lawrence Halprin and Thomas Church,legendary landscape architects who revolutionized design andchanged the profession. “Simple is better,” says Donnie, a les-son learned from studying Halprin and Church. “I always shootfor longevity in my design, and I’m always asking myself ‘will itlast?’ As far as I’m concerned, that’s the real key to good design.”
Donnie, his wife, Vicky, who is one of the owners of Renais-sance Realty, and their son, Ben, love making the Shoals theirhome. Donnie and Vicky have come a long way since thosedays when the Phillips boys were taking turns putting eachother through school. The next time you drive past UNA orpast the Conference Center, for which he prepared the site plan,take a moment to reflect on the longevity of those designs.They are timeless, and will endure. That’s the beauty of gooddesign. That’s what Donnie Phillips does best. N
20 | No’Ala
{ guess who I saw}
George Lindsey/UNA Film FestivalMARCH, 2010 VARIOUS LOCATIONS THROUGHOUT THE SHOALS
Lindsey Holt and James Tolkan
Anne Wilson, George Lindsey, and David and Teryl Shields
Ureka Malone, George Lindsey, and Brittany Letsinger
Tammy Irons, Sarah and Bobby Irons
Cynthia Burkhead and David Shields
Jeffrey Bibbee and Virginia Grant
Jeff Addison and Brad Thompson
George Lindsey and Claudia WellsBilly Don Anderson, Steve Holt,
and Liz Anderson
Debbie Moore, Randal Reedand Carrie Moore-Reed
Jeff Addison, Jacob Sanders, Corey Lawson,Clay Thomas, Brad Thompson, and Sam Lott
Tonya Holly and George Lindsey
Jim and Susannah Torres
PHOTOS BY SHANNON WELLS
BJ Cale and George Lindsey
May/June 2010 | 21
Choose a professional whois consistently at the top ofher profession. BABS CAMPBELL
256-740-0706256-366-3090
THE POWDER ROOM | SCOTT AND ELLEN CROSS, FLORENCEThe powder room, properly done, is like the perfect cocktail ring, or the right pair of earrings—it isn’t necessarily thefocal point, but it’s a unique accessory that makes everything else just perfect.
22 | No’Ala
It’s rare to find a house that’s so perfect that every room is a workof art. Instead, it's more common to have a favorite living roomat one friend’s house, a favorite kitchen in another’s, and afavorite bedroom, bath or garden somewhere else.
A year ago, No’Ala set about collecting pictures from some ofour favorite houses, and it turned out to be a reader favorite.The amazing thing was, there were four or five more “perfect”rooms for every one we featured. Therefore, we are pleased topresent another collection of some of the most beautiful roomsin the Shoals, full of inspiration and ideas for you as you build ordecorate your own. This year’s offerings are distinctively differ-ent, but each is unique, stunning… and perfect. It seems thatonce again, we believe that the Perfect Home doesn’t have to beunder one roof.
THEPERFECTHOME II
TEXT BY ALLEN TOMLINSONPHOTOS BY DANNY MITCHELL
Design: Susan Trousdale Interiors; Vanity Skirt: BeverlyKelly; Sconces: CircaLighting; Accessories:Susan Trousdale Interiors
May/June 2010 | 23
24 | No’Ala
The Perfect Home II
THE LIVING ROOM | MIKE AND ELIZABETH WEBB, FLORENCEThe Webb’s Florence living room is filled with light and contains the perfect mixture of new and antique furnishings.There’s something interesting to look at, no matter where you look.
May/June 2010 | 25
Design: Susan Trousdale Interiors; Construction: Wade GilchristBuilders; Draperies: Gail Faulkner, The Drapery Place; Slipcovers:Phyllis Stevenson; Accessories: Halsey House; Ironwork: CraigCarson, Metal Ora; Flowers: Lola’s Gifts and Flowers; Antiquearmoire, mantle, and mirror are gifts from Mike’s mother, Jane Little
Janna Kristen Stoneand Chad Edward Hess
June 19, 2010
Bride’s Name: Janna Kristen StoneBride’s Hometown: Florence, AlabamaBride’s Parents: Ronnie and Jan StoneBride’s Grandparents: Helen Edwards and the late LelandEdwards, Sr.; the late Mr. and Mrs. William S. StoneGroom’s Name: Chad Edward HessGroom’s Hometown: Forest Hills, KentuckyGroom’s Parents: Carolyn Hess and the late Rev. Carl HessGroom’s Grandparents: Nancy Hiel, Margie Hiel and the lateEdward Hiel; the late Mr. and Mrs. Louis HessBride’s Attendants: Jessie Hudson (Maid of Honor), Kim Olive,Whitney Dalton, Meghan Quillen, Ashton Johnson, Kacy Hairell,and Livia OliveGroomsmen: Curtis Hess (Best Man), Paul Hanson, Gabe Reese,Mark Talley, Micah Hammond, and Luke HammondFlower Girl/Ring Bearer: Lilly Ann Olive and Landon OliveCeremony: June 19, 2010, 2:00 p.m., Woodmont BaptistChurch, Florence, AlabamaRehearsal Dinner Information: Dockside, at the home of Dr. and Mrs. James HudsonReception Information: Turtle Point Yacht and Country ClubWedding Coordinator: Faye MannBride’s Gown: AllureBridesmaid’s Gowns: Mori LeeTuxedos: Jim’s Formal WearFlorist: Kaleidoscope Florist and DesignsPhotographer: Jim FrawleyVideographer: Jimmy OliveCaterer: Turtle Point Yacht and Country ClubHair: Patti SchackHoneymoon: Disney WorldRegistries: Lynda’s Loft, Target, BelkParties: Couple’s Shower, given by the Staff of Woodmont Baptist Church; Bridal Tea at Woodmont Baptist Church, given by Friends; Bachelorette Party, given by Bridesmaids; Bridesmaids’ Luncheon, given by Connie Gilley, Pam Byram,and Pam Tate
PHO
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26 | No’Ala
DocksideDining
Let us stock your boat with fresh foodsand wonderful wines. We can also helpprepare all of your summertime parties!
Dine in, carry out, for catering and enter-taining—our fresh approach is known up
and down the river.
1627 Darby Drive, English VillageFlorence, Alabama256-764-5991
Ask about our wine pairing evenings!
LLC
May/June 2010 | 27
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AP Y
THE KITCHEN | JOHN AND EDY CARLTON, FLORENCEEdy Carlton is an unrepentant flea market shopper, but the kitchen she shares with husband John is anything but thriftstore. The rooms are filled with comfy upholstered pieces, antiques, family photos and art, but it’s the light that fills thespace with a golden glow that makes this room so inviting.
28 | No’Ala
The Perfect Home II
May/June 2010 | 29
Design: Edy Carlton; Construction: King & Associates; Draperies:Linda Hogan, All Strings Attached; Accessories/Island: HalseyHouse
30 | No’Ala
From title searches and titleinsurance to loan closings inone of our three convenient
locations, no one in theregion has more
experience than wedo. Our honestyand hard-working
values may dateback 123 years,
but our technol-ogy is strictly21st century.
Visit our web-site to see
how easy wemake it for
you!
Three locations toserve you:
FLORENCE:110 S. PineStreet(256) 764-2141
TUSCUMBIA:301 N. WaterStreet(256) 381-2802
RUSSELLVILLE:202 N. JacksonAve., Suite 100 (256) 332-6092
www.alabamalandservices.com
I look at the entire picture before I make recommendations to help you meetyour financial goals. Call me, and let’s get a conversation started.
If you’re ready to buy or sell ahome, you want to work with aRealtor who’s connected to the
community. And when it comes tothe Shoals, the pros at Cypress
Realty are connected...like no oneelse. We’re ready to connect you
with your next home!
256-764-6151
Beautiful thingsfor the people you love.
1633 Darby Drive, English Village,Florence • 256-767-2056
2404 Woodward Avenue, MuscleShoals • 256-383-1844
www.kaleidoscopeflorist.com
May/June 2010 | 31
The Shoals area has avery good chance athaving an Olympiccontender, as DavidAdamo continues to
train for the 2012Equestrian competition
in London. ButOlympic dreams areexpensive—won’t
you help?
You can make tax-deductible contribu-
tions through theAmerican Horse TrialsAssociation; personalgifts of any size and
corporate sponsorshipsare also appreciated.
For more information,call David’s Manager,
Jim Graham, at 256-436-1747 or visitmeadowrunfarm.com
Thank you!
The Perfect Home II
THE DINING ROOM | DAVID AND FAYE ABRAMSON, FLORENCEWoodlawn is the name of David and Faye Abramson’s 1830 historic home in Florence. The Abramson’s son, Zac Abram-son, designed this formal dining room with one-of-a-kind antiques and family heirlooms, like the Grandfather clock,which was a wedding anniversary present to Faye from David.
32 | No’Ala
May/June 2010 | 33
Design: Zac Abramson, Abramson Antiques; Draperies: RollinsDrapery; Carpet: Towles House of Carpets; Accessories/Glass-ware: The Yellow Door
THE FAMILY ROOM | DAVID AND SARA JEFFERY, FLORENCEDavid and Sara Jeffery’s family room gives the feeling of an elegant apartment in Manhattan’s Upper East Side—which isfitting since the young couple lived and worked in the Big Apple before settling in the Shoals. Sara Jeffery expertly com-bined new pieces and accessories with family treasures and gifts of art to create a warm gathering spot that’s both warmand remarkably chic.
The Perfect Home II
34 | No’Ala
Design: Sara Jeffery; Draperies: Debbie Haden; Pillows: Todd Gill-reath, Todd Gillreath Upholstery; Accessories: The French Basket;Flowers: Lola’s Gifts and Flowers; Styling: Paige Thornton
May/June 2010 | 35
36 | No’Ala
DANNYMITCHELL
PHOTOGRAPHY
Member, Professional Photographers of America
PHOTO RESTORATIONPORTRAITS
COMMERCIALADVERTISING
EVENTSSPORTS
INTERIORSPRODUCT
STOCK
1712 Birmingham StreetSheffield, Alabama 35660
256-386-0944 (office)256-627-3056 (cell)
www.dannymitchell.com
DANNY MITCHELL PHOTOGRAPHY HAS MOVED!1712 BIRMINGHAM STREET IN SHEFFIELD—JUST ACROSS O’NEAL BRIDGE
LARGER FACILITIES · GARDEN AREA
May/June 2010 | 37
Raspberry and Macadamia Nut Brownies. Pecan CheeseBiscuits. Garlic Sweet Crunchy Pickles. All from the
kitchen of Betty Sims, all available online for quick delivery,and all simply delicious. And check out Betty’s
cookbooks, packed full of ideas for cooking and entertaining!Visit www.scrumptiousinc.com or drop by Sweet BasilCafé in English Village, Florence, and discover all of
the Scrumptious delights!www.scrumptiousinc.com
1-877-865-1897 • 256-353-1897 • [email protected]
Now there’s help for those who want to remove unsightly andunwanted facial hair—the ancient art of threading, practicedby Lucia Mitchell. It’s fast, long-lasting and affordable, andyour skin will feel baby soft! Call for your appointmenttoday and learn more about the ancient artof hair removal—threading.
Ronnie’s Cosmetology103 S. Dickson St., Tuscumbia
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256-275-1107 256-381-1770
Lucia
Call 256-740-0706 or256-757-9008Email [email protected] www.annewillsell.com
Call me when you’re ready for ahome and garden of your own.
I’m Anne Bernauer and I want to be your Realtor® — for life.
The Perfect Home II
THE MASTER SUITE | GILES AND DEBORAH MCDANIEL, FLORENCEThe master suite in the Florence home of Giles and Deborah McDaniel has the time-worn feel of a European countryhouse—fitting, because Deborah McDaniel has lovingly filled the rooms with textiles, antiques, and furnishings fromprevious places lived and from trips abroad, including Italy, France, England and Germany.
38 | No’Ala
May/June 2010 | 39
Design: Deborah McDaniel, Allied Member, ASID; Accessories:Noble Passage; The handmade bed is by a Dallas artist. Thedraperies are from India. The painting above the mantle waspainted by Deborah’s Grandfather, and was given to her as a wedding gift.
The Perfect Home II
40 | No’Ala
THE MASTER BATH | LYNN AND MISSY RIDGEWAY, MUSCLE SHOALSThe master bath at Lynn and Missy Ridgeway’s lake house is a study in utilitarian restraint and low-maintenance materi-als, and uses space as efficiently as a luxurious ocean liner. His and Hers sinks and a walk-in shower are just perfect aftera day on Lake Wilson. The palette is masculine and neutral, but reflects the ever-changing colors of its surroundings.
Design: Paige Thornton; Cabinetry/Concrete Counter-tops: Ron Letson, Furnace Hill Mill Works; Accessories:The French Basket
May/June 2010 | 41
THE OUTDOOR LIVING SPACE | DAVE AND NANCY MARBURY, FLORENCEDon’t let the formal layout of Dave and Nancy Marbury’s yard mislead you—this backyard (or, technically, their sideyard) oasis is used nearly year-round by the Florence couple. The pool’s water feature adds sound to the visual beauty,and the space is used for entertaining, exercise and just for relaxation.
The Perfect Home II
42 | No’Ala
May/June 2010 | 43
Design: Will Lambert, Lambert Landscape; Pool Construction:Cox Pools, Birmingham; Construction: Craig Construction;Masonry: Brian Bolen, Bolen Tile Works; Furniture: Ingram's Out-door Furniture, Crimson Casual
The Perfect Home II
THE SCREENED-IN PORCH | CHARLES VAUGHN AND LLOYD MARKS, ROGERSVILLEThe screened-in porch at the Elk River house of Charles Vaughn and Lloyd Marks is much like the rest of the house—aneffortless mix of contemporary pieces, folk art, flea-market finds, and even some of Vaughn’s own furniture designs. “Nomatchy-matchy” seems to be the hard and fast rule here, and the result is a calm and serene getaway from the Huntsvillecouple’s weekday digs. What else would you want your lake house to be? (See page 46 for a glimpse of Vaughn’s extensivecollection of matchstick art.)
44 | No’Ala
May/June 2010 | 45
Design: Charles Vaughn, Vaughn Lumber Company, Inc.
46 | No’Ala
Collections
Matchstick ArtAbove: A selection from Vaughn’s extensive matchstick collectionincluding two houses (one with a removable roof), boxes, and akeg inscribed with the word, “LOVE”. A large church (left) is dis-played in a guest bedroom next to a painting by Tres Taylor.Below, an intricate frame houses an antique photograph. A bed-side table, miniature chest, and house (facing page) are verymuch at home in the couple’s rustic lakehouse.
What do prisoners, mental patients, and kids at summer camphave in common? They have a lot of time on their hands. ChuckVaughn discovered a little-known genre of folk art, generallycreated by prisoners or mental patients, which involves metic-ulously gluing matchsticks into shapes and sculptures. WhenChuck learned about the art form he began collecting it, andtoday has more than forty pieces of Matchstick Art at his lakehome in Rogersville.
The sulfur end of the match has been burned, and artists usethe darker, burned part of the matchstick in the design, some-times creating a flamestitch pattern. Chuck says most of theart involves making a frame or underlayment and then gluingthe matchsticks onto them, many times creating elaborate andcomplicated patterns that can be breathtaking.
Some of Chuck’s pieces are quite large, and most depict housesor log cabins, although he does own one piece that is a mas-sive sailing ship. His collection looks right at home in his rusticlake cabin, but when you focus on each individual piece andnotice the detail, it's truly an amazing art form.
Chuck has built his collection by browsing through areaantique and junk stores, and you might find pieces—or infor-mation about Matchstick Art—in north Florence, along WoodAvenue where there is a concentration of antique dealers; atBellemeade Antique Market on Highway 72; or in any of theother specialty shops in the Shoals who specialize in primitiveor folk art.
May/June 2010 | 47
48 | No’Ala
You don’t have to suffer with painful varicose or uglyspider veins. Varicose veins can be eliminated without surgery or a hospital stay, and treatment iscovered by most insurances. Our new Vein Wavetreatments for spider veins will make your legs look asgood as they feel...without compression stockings, without bruising or scars, and without needles orlasers. You’ll see immediateresults—and you don’t have tostay out of the sun. So relax!We’ll help you get your legsin shape for summer!
For more information or to make an appointment, call 866-383-0423256-383-0423 256-772-6018
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Shelby K. Bailey, M.D., F.A.C.S. • William A. Collignon, M.D., F.A.C.S.
Now in Madison and in the Shoals!
Sarah Elizabeth Vandiver and Benjamin Cole Alexander
May 1, 2010
Sarah Elizabeth Vandiver and Benjamin Cole Alexander havechosen May 1, 2010 for their wedding. The ceremony will beheld in the Interfaith Chapel in Seaside, Florida, with DorianFlynn officiating. A reception will follow.
The bride-elect is the daughter of Mr. John Russell Vandiver andthe late Rosemary Gatlin Vandiver of Florence. She is the grand-daughter of Ms. Betty Ruth Robison of Tuscumbia and the lateMary Sue Brock of Panama City Beach, Florida.
The prospective groom is the son of Mr. and Mrs. Charles DuaneAlexander of Florence. He is the grandson of Mr. and Mrs.Charles Emmitt Alexander and Mr. and Mrs. Glenn FranklinWyatt, all of Florence, and the great-grandson of Mr. and Mrs.Charles Edward Alexander.
Bridesmaids: Jenny Vickery Evers (Matron of Honor), Julie IsbellHargett, Erika Baker Presley, Jennifer Putman, Tiffany Vandiver,Eleanor Parker, Jennifer Miller, Katie AlexanderGroomsmen: Duane Alexander (Best Man and Father of theGroom), Darren Alexander, Kirk Childers, Kevin MageeJohn Whitten; Roman McDonald; Bradley Paradise; Walt VandiverCeremony: Interfaith Chapel, Seaside FloridaRehearsal Dinner: Great Southern Café, Seaside, FloridaReception: Seaside Interfaith Chapel LawnBride’s Gown: Cherry Tree LaneTuxedos: Cherry Tree LaneWedding Bands: Grogan JewelersHoneymoon: Riviera Maya, MexicoRegistries: Yellow Door, Halsey House, Dillard’s, and Pottery BarnParties: Engagement Party, given by Mr. and Mrs. Richard HarrisParker Jr. and Eleanor Parker; Christmas Shower, given by JulieIsbell Hargett, Linda Isbell, Jennifer Putman, Tiffany Vandiver,Kimberly Nesbitt Hughston, and Jennifer Miller; Around theHouse Shower, given by Jenny Vickery Evers, Erika Baker Presleyand Jennifer Miller; Tool and Gadget Shower, given by MaggieGerrard Jenkins, Jenna Dempsey Brewer, Erin Dempsey, AmyCooper, and Danette Kennedy; Bridal Tea, given by CrosspointChurch of Christ; Bridal Tea, given by Brookhill Church of Christ;Bridal Shower Brunch, given by Rhonda Ivey and Brenda Miller;Bridal Shower Brunch, given by Joan Paris, Jana Beaver, JennyRyan, Linda Cutshall, Molly Johnson, Ann Hamilton, and WandaMitchell; Tool and Gadget Party, given by Brookhill Church ofChrist; Bridesmaids’ Luncheon, given by June Darnell, MissyWoodhouse, and Renee Vandiver
PHO
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NC
EJA
MES
May/June 2010 | 49
When you are ready toput down some roots ofyour own, call a Realtor®
who’s grounded andready to help.
Pam MinetreeOffice: 256-740-0706
Cell: [email protected]
www.searchtheshoals.com/pamminetree
ORAL & FACIALSURGERY
of the Shoals
(256) 383-1499398 Ashe BoulevardSheffield AL 35660
www.oralandfacialoftheshoals.com
Mark R. McIlwainD.M.D., M.D.
Christopher B. NesterD.M.D., M.D.
Jonathan W. FrederickD.M.D., M.D.
ProFractional™ Wrinkle Reduction dramaticallyimproves wrinkles, scars and sun damaged skin.
ProFractional™ is a quick and comfortable laser procedureused for improving the overall appearance of your skin.There is minimal recovery time, and ProFractional™ isused to treat:
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Our doctors and medical staff can also consultwith you about other cosmetic surgery proce-dures, including face lifts, eye lifts, brow lifts,orthognathic surgery, scar revision, dentalimplants, submental liposuction, maxillary andmandibular reconstruction surgery, botox andcosmetic fillers. Gift certificates and financingoptions are available.
Wish you didn’t have to worry about your skinanymore? Call 256-383-1499 for an appointment.
STANDINGRENOVATION
50 | No’Ala
TEXT BY ALLEN TOMLINSONPHOTOS BY DANNY MITCHELL
The house has always been majestic, from its location in a promi-nent historic district in Florence. But it was beginning to show its age when the Collins family purchasedthis grand old home and hired Anne Leslie Warren Tompkins, ASID to redo it. The result is a comfort-able showplace, perfect for a growing family and for entertaining.
The house was built in 1917 by the Gullette family, and was later occupied by the Wynn family, “and thebones were strong,” said Anne Leslie. Brooks Collins, a financial advisor, and his family purchased it inAugust of 2007, and in the past three years have redone or reconfigured every part of the home. “Everydoor and window was tagged and numbered,” said Anne Leslie, “and we did the whole house with historicpreservation in mind. We wanted to make it energy efficient, but we wanted it to be true to the neigh-borhood and respectful of its historic tradition.”
Anne Leslie opened up interior spaces and gave it light and air. The dining room is surrounded by Frenchdoors that let light in from almost every angle, and interior walls were moved to capture and take advan-tage of the light. Bathrooms are breathtaking in their use of natural stones, including marble and granite.The kitchen and family rooms flow together to create a huge space for entertaining, and the new drive-way leads to a guesthouse and garage in the backyard which can also be used for overflow entertaining.
The Collins family has two young children and are expecting a third, so the attic was reworked to createplay space for the kids that will change and adapt with them as they grow. Anne Leslie had a real under-standing of the family’s needs, because she has young twins of her own!
Best of all, for Anne Leslie, this project was like returning home. Her parents live at the opposite end ofthe street and were the driving force behind the formation of the Walnut Street Historic District, so work-ing on the Collins home had special meaning for her; Anne Leslie grew up just a hop, skip and a jump away
from this house. That was a few years ago, before she left for Salem College,where she earned a degree in interior design; she worked in New York for14 years before returning to Birmingham, where she lives now.
May/June 2010 | 51
Facing page: Thedining room isdesigned for linger-ing—theupholstered chairsmake for long,leisurely dinners.The living room,right, is the perfectcombination of ele-gant and effortless.Above: the exteriorof the renovatedCollins home.
52 | No’Ala
IT’S ALL IN THE DETAILS The living room’s palette of creamywhites, frosty blues and silver give the room its light and airy feel. Theuse of shutters rather than draperies extends a casual charm that con-tinues throughout the house. Wainscotting, extensive mouldings, anda custom fireplace pay homage to the home’s rich history. Accessoriesand art by Firenze.
May/June 2010 | 53
We wanted to make it energy efficient, but we wanted it to be true to the neighborhood and respectful of its historic tradition.
In the Collins home, the kitchen takes center stage. Expansive stonecountertops, custom built-ins (like the coffee station below), substan-tial bar stools, and a professional range give the room a presence andpower.
54 | No’Ala
Left: The original cabinetry from the Butler’sPantry (including the ice-box) was salvagedduring construction, then reassembled andinstalled in the office. Reproductions of theoriginal blueprints are displayed here as well.The family room, below, with the requisiteflat screen television and comfy furnituremakes the perfect gathering place for thisyoung family.
The Collins family(l to r): Judson, Brooks,Sherrie, and Lila
May/June 2010 | 55
SOURCES» Contractor: TAC Construction; Interior Designer: Anne Leslie Warren Tompkins, ASID (www.wdginy.com); Kitchen Cabinets: Van Tiffin; Bathroom Cabinets: Howard Bragwell, Doors & More; Art and Accessories: Firenze Antiques and Interiors; Antique Rugs: The Flying Carpet
Every door and window was tagged and numbered, and we did the whole house with historic preservation in mind.
56 | No’Ala
Above: The master bedroom includes the original fireplace anda masculine, studded headboard. The master bath, below left,includes custom cabinetry, walk-in shower, and a soaking tub.Below: The Collins’ son’s room and bath are all-boy. The art-work over the mantel can be quickly changed to reflect hisever-changing moods and artistic skills.
May/June 2010 | 57
Designing
HomeLenders of the Shoals, inc502 E. Dr. Hicks Blvd., Florence · 256-766-7339
Digging to Find You the Best Rate
{ shopping}
230 Thread Count Pillow by Comforel($12 Standard, $15 Queen, $18 King)The Pillow Factory (256) 383-8507
Wooden Lamp by Ambience($83.25)
SBS Electric Supply Co.(256) 764-8481
Sailor’s Hurricane Candle ($125)Halsey House
(256) 764-9294
Oriental Rugs (Prices Vary)The Flying Carpet Oriental Rugs
(256) 764-1852
Decorative Salamander Sculpture($93.99)
Across The Pond(256) 765-0322
Stylish 2GB Mini USB Flash Drive($29)
The Yellow Door (256) 766-6950
Glass One Gallon Beverage Server($178.99)
David Christopher’s (256) 764-7008
58 | No’Ala
*The Pillow Factory makes pillows and bedding for many high-end hotel—and they’re located in the Shoals!
Galvanic Home Spa ($375) (Includes a Month's Supplyof Facial Gels, NaPca Moisture Mist, and DVD.
Center for Skin Care & Wellness (256) 764-4711
May/June 2010 | 59
Meridian—Casa Stone Dinnerware Collectionby Casafina (Prices Vary Per Piece)
Xtravagance by Susan (256) 764-1018
Metal Lion Fish Sculptureby Ron Olson ($600)
ARTifacts Art Gallery(256) 764-7732
Hand Embroidered, Wool on Linen,Down Accent Pillow ($165)
Firenze Antiques & Interiors(256) 760-1963
Dransfield & Ross Hand TowelsChinese Fretwork ($40) Greek Key ($40)The French Basket (256) 764-1237
White Custom Lamp ($169)Southern Shades & Lighting
(256) 757-0045
Quality Outdoor Furnitureby Crimson Casual (Prices Vary)
Ingram’s Inc.(256) 764-9142
Wooden Serving Tray ($39.99)Terra Noble Carmenere 07 ($18.99)
Nickel & Nickel Sullenger Vineyard Cabernet Sauvignon 06 ($86.99)Domaine De Couron Grenache Rosé 07 ($11.99)
Chateau Montelena Chardonnay 07 ($51.99) The Wine Seller (256) 766-1568
Hand Embroidered AlabamaAccent Pillow ($129)
Elk River Home & Trading Company(256) 247-0345
60 | No’Ala
{ guess who I saw}
Shoals Young Professionals Wine TastingFEBRUARY 11, 2010 A. TOMLINSON/SIMS, FLORENCE
Porter Hill and Randall Matthews
Will and AshleyBeadle
Dillon Hodges
Paul and Allyson Hanson
Danielle Snoddy, Ali Batcher, andMalorie James
Frank Beyer, Carla Weaver, Joey Leavitt, and Edwin Anderson
John Perdue, Tim Burgess, and Alyson and JT Ray
Liza and Porter Hill
PHOTOS COURTESY OF WILL BEADLE
Evie White
Pat Shoemaker
Jimmy Sandlin
Vicki Pounders
Georgia Osborne, and Claire Pebworth
Jeannie Faulkner and Virginia Reed
Pam Kingbury, Joe Rhodes, Beth Lane, andPaige Thornton
Becky Mauldin, Mason Ingram and Ruth Mauldin
Empty Bowl LuncheonMARCH 31, 2010
MARRIOTT SHOALS CONFERENCE CENTER
May/June 2010 | 61
If you or a loved oneneed in-home personal care,
ElderCare Services is your trusted source.
ElderCare is a locally owned andoperated family business, designedexpressly for the purpose of meetingthe needs of Shoals area seniors.
Founded by Jean Gay Mussleman in1996, after she was unable to findreliable, adequate care for her ownfather, ElderCare Services providescaring, compassionate services toShoals seniors and support to their
families.
ElderCare Services allows seniorsto live with dignity, independ-ence and security in their ownhomes. We provide peace ofmind to loved ones who havework and family responsibilitiesor who live far away.
Dee Mussleman and Jean GayMussleman
(256)740-8249
Visit our new offices at 210 E. College Street, Florence, AL
www.eldercareweb.com
At The Sweet Magnolia Café we offer fabulous food, a wonderful
wine list, and delectable desserts. Come experience lunch,
dinner, or a glass of wine at Happy Hour in a casual Bistro
setting, or on our outdoor patio. THE SWEET MAGNOLIA CAFÉ –
A memory each and every time……….Reservations accepted but not required
Intimate. Informal. Irresistible!
AMAZING Steaks • International Cuisine • Gourmet Sandwiches • Paninis • Salads
Wine & Beer • Daily Desserts • New York Bagels • Coffee • Cappuccino
62 | No’Ala
The family room is the favorite room in thenew house and features spectacular beams,and and hand-painted ceiling by ChrisSchweigardt. The painting is by Florenceartist Lisa Wallace.
May/June 2010 | 63
THISBOLDHOUSE
a new place to live? After serious debate, theydecided to stay. The process of remaking the housetook 14 months, during which time the Rieffs movedout and into a rental home nearby. The entire insidewas gutted and the floorplan was reworked toaccommodate the family's needs.
Nothing was untouched. “Our favorite room is thefamily room,” said Burt. The room was added to thefront of the house and has a fireplace and cathedralceilings. The yard is spectacular, and the family enjoysgathering around the grill or having friends over. “Wecall the group that worked on this house the DreamTeam,” said Burt. “Everyone worked together beauti-fully and we enjoyed working with our architect,Phillip Gamble, our building designer, Mike Mitchell,our decorator, Paige Thornton, and Harry Wallace,who designed the landscaping.” The result is a homethat is well suited for a growing family, with all thewarmth and friendliness the Rieff family wanted.
TEXT BY ALLEN TOMLINSONPHOTOS BY DANNY MITCHELL
Our goal was to create a home that was family ori-ented.” Dr. Burt Rieff and his family transformed anordinary rancher into a warm, friendly and family-centered home in a wonderful neighborhood neardowntown Florence. The house is centrally locatedto schools and work, so Allison, 14, and Brandon,12, and parents Burt and Lynne are just where theywant to be, but the house needed some serious help.
The family began renting the home in 1996, and theywere able to purchase it from the church next doorin 2002. By 2007, they had to make a decision: wouldthey completely remodel the house and stay, or find
Before
After
64 | No’Ala
SOURCES» Building Designer: Phillip Gamble; Interior Designer: Paige Thornton, The French Basket; Landscape Architect: Carol Lambdin; General Contractor: Mike MitchellConstruction Co.; Landscape Contractor: Linda and Harry Wallace, Little Cypress Natives; Cabinets: Ron Letson, Furnace Hill Mill Works; Metalwork: Craig Carson, Lucas Stokes,and Aron Carter; Stone Masonry: Bill Hucklebee; Painting (over the fireplace): Lisa Wallace; Accessories: The French Basket, Lola’s Gifts and Flowers, Cypress Creek Antiques;Antique Rugs: The Flying Carpet; Tile and Hardwood Floors: Greg Burnett (Floor Crafters) and Jenkins Brick; Painting: Mark Forsythe Painting; Textured Finish Ceiling (GreatRoom and Master Bedroom): Chris Schweigardt; Antique Furniture Refinishing: Bruce Lewter; Window Treatments/Drapery: Robin Preuit; Windows and Doors: (Vetter)–McDaniel Windows and Doors; Tub, Hardware: Southern Pipe; Upholstered Headboard and Master Bedroom Chair: Kathy Johnson Upholstery; Kitchen Lighting: SBS Electric
“We call the group that worked on this house the ‘Dream Team.’Everyone worked together beautifully.” —Burt Rieff
May/June 2010 | 65
Facing page: The formal dining room is flooded with light during theday. An sitting/study area, left, acts as a family center and sitsbetween the kitchen and formal dining room. Above: the familyroom—the doors are antique reproductions from McDaniel Windowsand Doors. Below: chocolate quartz countertops by Greg Cochran, andan unique brick treatment for the backsplash and hood give it a reno-vated, rather than new, feel.
66 | No’Ala
Above: Designer Paige Thornton took what could have been a wastedspace between the common areas and the master bedroom andturned it into a tidy and useful reading area. The master bedroom, left,with its grand upholstered headboard by Kathy Johnson. Below: themaster bath and dressing areas.
May/June 2010 | 67
Sometimes during thedesign process childrendon’t receive the atten-tion they deserve, butThornton was adamantabout including the Rieffchildren in the decision-making process. Theresult is two rooms thatreflect the children’s per-sonalities and interests,but still tell an cohesivedesign story. Right: Alli-son’s room is bothcolorful and very chic.Brandon’s room, below,has an all-American nau-tical look
68 | No’Ala
The courtyard features beautiful entrancegate and spiral staircase designed by CraigCarson, Lucas Stokes, and Aron Carter, as wellas some unusual faux bois (false wood) chairsand tables.Hidden behind the climbing vineis a stunning waterwall.
The Rieff family—Allison, Burt,Brandon and Lynne prepare dinnerin their outdoor kitchen.
May/June 2010 | 69
May 8th, 8 a.m.—noon, Bevill Center at Northwest Shoals in Muscle Shoals.
This Mother’s Day weekend, encourage your mom to hear a variety of health-relatedtopics of interest to women, including:
• Heart Disease • Cardiac and Vascular Surgery• Women and Sleep Disorders • Herbal Supplements• Hormone Replacement • Nutrition• Depression
This event is free, but reservations are required.Call 256-768-8343 today!
This Mother’s Day Weekend, cometo theWomen’s Heart and
Health Seminar
www.ecmhospital.com www.shoalshospital.com
625 South Cherry Street, Florence, AL 256-764-8481
Landscape lighting makes an impact. Andeven though we sell everything electrical foryour home, it’s the lighting that will get the
attention. Like the Hinkley line of lighting forthe inside and the outside of your home, just
one of the many styles and brands we feature.Set the proper mood for your home, by visitingour lighting showroom—or visit our website at
www.sbselectric.com
70 | No’Ala
PLANTING MEMORIESIN ATLANTA
TEXT BY CLAIRE STEWART » PHOTOS BY STEVE COLE » ART DIRECTION/STYLING BY ANN MARTIN VITTI
Co
urtesy o
f Am
y Wilb
anks A
nn
Martin
Vitti
Everyone loves a beautiful, well kept garden. Some people gardento adopt a healthy hobby, some do it to improve their house’s curb appeal, andsome do it simply for their love of the outdoors. But Amy Wilbanks was movedto create a beautiful garden in Castlewood Park in Buckhead, Georgia for anotherreason—to commemorate her parents and their amazing lives in the Shoals.
Amy’s mother, Ann Harris, was a fixture in Florence. She moved here in 1951,and in the 70’s she began teaching art lessons for children in the Shoals. Later,she studied art under Wendy Van Pelt of Florence and exhibited art at Arts Alive.
Sisters Amy Wilbanks (left)and Ann Martin Vitti. Below,Gene and Ann Harris (center)and their family.
© 2010 Steve C
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May/June 2010 | 71
Before
PLANT LIST
TreesCrape Myrtle Natchez
ShrubsDwarf Sherwood abeliaBottlebrush BuckeyeKorean BoxwoodGreen Velvet BoxwoodAmerican BoxwoodNuccios pearl CamelliaShi Shi Gashira CamelliaAutumn FernCape GardeniaCreeping GardeniaE. S. HydrangeaOak Leaf HydrangeaDwarf Burford HollyFragrant Tea OliveA. Waterer SpireaConfederate Jasmine
She was Fashion Director for Parisian, and was also a member of the Muscle ShoalsDistrict Service League and a dedicated member of Trinity Episcopal Church. For-tunately, Ann was able to give help and advice to Amy in the early stages of theCastlewood Park garden design, although she passed away in 2009 after a yearlongbattle with cancer.
Ann’s husband, Marvin Eugene (Gene) Harris Jr. of Sheffield, was also a member of theKennedy-Douglass Arts Center and participated in Arts Alive each year. He was orig-inally an engineering executive but in the last 25 years of his life he designedhand-crafted metal jewelry for his company Metalworks. Gene’s jewelry designs wereshowcased in national and local retail stores and in recognized arts and craft showsacross the South. He even designed a commemorative pendant for Rogers Depart-ment Store’s 125th Anniversary. Gene was also a devoted member at Trinity as well asa basketball coach and Scout master. He was diagnosed with COPD near the end of hislife, but he didn’t let that stop him. He held focus groups at the hospital with otherCOPD patients to help them use their oxygen machines. He was also an active mem-ber of “The Easy Breather” support group in the Shoals area and contributed manypractical and helpful solutions to those in need, even designing a breathing apparatusto use in the shower that had a patent pending right before his death in 2006.
So, back to the garden. Amy was chosen to receive a grant from Park Pride, a non-profit in Atlanta, to create the garden in her neighborhood and broke ground in
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Above: CastlewoodPark before the gar-den renovations.
72 | No’Ala
2008. She and her partner, Fluffy Tambke, and Tim Gartland fromHamilton Land Services, started to labor away at the garden, plantingeverything from Crepe Myrtles, Bottlebrush Buckeye, ConfederateJasmine, and multiple varieties of Boxwoods. In the last year of herlife, Ann Harris was able to help Amy in designing the garden; Amywould show her pictures of the garden when she came through Flo-rence and her mother would critique every move, every angle, andevery stone to help make it perfect.
At that point, according to Amy, the park became something very dif-ferent to her. “It became a symbol of everything my parents had taughtme growing up: never give up on a good idea, you can make any envi-ronment beautiful, work with the natural beauty of a space and havepassion. They always told us to believe in yourself and make it happen.”
What better gift could a child give to his or her parents than to createsomething that will last forever? The Castlewood Park project hasbeen dedicated, and one of the bricks in the pathway is devoted toAnn and Gene Harris. But when Amy strolls through the beautifulpark these days, it’s a living reminder of her special parents and thethings they taught her.
For those in the Shoals who knew and loved the Harris family, the gar-den is a fitting tribute to two wonderful artists. Next time you’re inAtlanta, stop by and take a look. You’ll see Ann and Gene’s influenceeverywhere. N
© 2010 Steve C
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May/June 2010 | 73
In 1952, when Mr. J.C. Hamm started his business,helping customers stay comfortable in theirhomes, he might not have imagined it lasting intothe fourth generation. But he built this businesson confidence and trust, and those are principlesthat endure. For all of your heating, cooling andhome comfort needs, trust the professionals at JC Hamm & Sons—keeping you comfortable formore than 58 years.
ABOVE: Mr. J.C. Hamm. LEFT: SonsRick and Gregg Hamm, grandsonChris (holding his son Carter), andLilly and Davis.
Heating • Air Conditioning(256) 764-7386
• Air Purification • Mold Issues • Duct Cleaning
256.718.1010 • lambertlandscape.net
74 | No’Ala
{ bless their hearts}
I’ve recently completed that annual riteof spring: The Trip to Lowe’s. There,hope springs eternal as I survey thebright vista of blooms, beckoning andfull of possibilities. Swept up in themoment, I envision the colorful trans-formation my yard will undergo,conveniently forgetting my knack forplant homicide. This thumb is notmerely sickly chartreuse or even putridpea-green, it is a Black Thumb—certifi-able and undeniable.
I, like you, have drooled over the ver-dant displays of the super-gardenersfeatured in the preceding pages. I have many equally-talented kind andpitying friends— bless their hearts—who offer me “starts,” such as the HerbGarden.
“Here’s a bucket of mint,” a dear one said when I bemoaned my lack thereofwith which to garnish my iced tea. “Just throw it out near a garden hosefaucet, and it will take over.”
Not wanting to risk “just throwing it out,” I carefully tilled, measured, dug,fertilized and lovingly nestled the young plants into their new home. Iwatered and nurtured, awaiting the promised coup. Weeks later, the mes-sage from the black, brittle leaves and shriveled roots was clear: there wasno takeover. My mint had surrendered without so much as a skirmish.
Need I detail the fate of some hearty basil donated by another comradedetermined, perhaps, to encourage a culinary hobby in place of horticul-ture? Bless her heart. “It can’t be killed,” she assured me, never imaginingthe havoc that could be wreaked by an overzealous teenager, packin’ aWeedeater.
There seems to be a pattern emerging here of charitable Green Thumberswho desire to free me from my prison of environmental unfriendliness.Alas, it takes a neighborhood.
Perhaps in response to my neighbors’ praying to do something—anything—about my front yard, the Almighty almost literally knocked me on the headwith a huge tree during one of the numerous thunderstorms last August.
“… I, in my beauty mask, and Pa, with his C-Pap.Had just opened our windows for a rain-serenaded nap.When on the roof overhead there came such a crash.I sprang from my Memoryfoam and ran like a flash.Tripping over the dog, I tore open the door,To be greeted by a jungle, where there’d been none before….”
BY JAN HUDSON
My killer instinct.
Jan Hudson
May/June 2010 | 75
Residential and commercial doors that are functional . . . and beautiful. Trust Shoals Overhead Door to help youselect the door for your application, and then provide service after the sale. Some of the most beautiful entrances in
the Shoals start with a call to Shoals Overhead Door.Visit our showroom at 2402 Woodside Drive, Muscle Shoals
(at the intersection of Wilson Dam Road and 2nd Street)
256.383.DOOR • www.shoalsoverheaddoor.com
The massive oak covered most of the front of the house; andby the time the tree service and roofing trucks had runMotocross on what had previously passed as our front lawn,a one-lovely stand of green weeds was replaced by oozing,rutted red mud.
Neighborhood to the rescue! Pitying neighbors broughtlandscaping magazines, contributed bulbs, pruned, spreadmulch and helped move shrubs—between rains. It was threemonths before there were enough consecutive dry days to laythe sod. (Where is a good drought when you need one?) Thenew pastime on our street became watching our topsoil slideinto the gutter. But our patient friends kept making encour-aging comments about how much better the yard wouldlook, bless their hearts. (Could it possibly look any worse?)
So, here it is springtime, the new lawn is greening up nicely,and the recently-planted annuals provide cheery dots ofcolor here and there. As I relax in the lawn chair, enjoying a
glass of iced tea—sans mint—I’m secretly terrified, wonder-ing how soon the entire scene will reveal its mortality andfade to black.
After all, it’s certainly no coincidence that the State of Ala-bama began issuing license plates to “Save the Cahaba Lily”immediately after I planted some.
Jan Hudson of Florence is a recently empty-nestedworking mom whose freelance writing has been onhiatus for the last ten years, during which her pri-mary creative outlets have been school excuse notes,grocery lists and checks.
“Weeks later, the message from the black, brittle leavesand shriveled roots was clear: there was no takeover.
My mint had surrendered without so much as a skirmish.”
76 | No’Ala
{ guess who I saw}
Shoals Art for Heart BallMARCH 6, 2010 MARRIOTT SHOALS CONFERENCE CENTER
Nikki and Drew Dill
Martha Truitt, Ken Shepski, and Katherine Anderson
Jeff Gordon, Carl Casiday, DavidSims, and Allen Tomlinson
Andy CagleKeith Sims and Pheobee Saye Surender and
Sheela Sandella
Chris Burns
Ajit and Divya Naidu
K.P. and Katy McNeill
Artist Dan Dunn and Brantley Holt
Ralph Holt
Doss Cleveland, Jr.
Donnie and Mary Armstrong,Amy Darby
PHOTOS BY DANNY MITCHELL
Jennifer and Chad RobersonSandi and Audwin McGee
Hank and Laura Self
May/June 2010 | 77
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Tuesday–Friday: 10am–5pmSaturday: 11am–4pm
BJ BaskinAssociate Broker, CRSASP, e-PRO, ABR, [email protected] MorrisAssociate Broker, ASP256-366-5416 • [email protected]
409 East Mobile Street • Florence, AL 35630
Visit our website and see what
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78 | No’Ala
{ 20 questions}
20 Questions for Eleven Realtors
Real estate in the Shoals is unique because… …once someone has lived here—they want to come back
to stay! (Bernauer) …of the wonderful wide spectrum of people that live here.
Their homes reflect their character. (Mansell)…our area has so much to offer. The cultural resources
and natural resources here are like none other. A college town on a river—what could be better? (Morris)
I know people have found the perfect house for themwhen…
…their faces light up and they start mentally placing their furniture and the children start picking their rooms. (Phillips)
…they can’t stop talking about it! (Minetree)…I’ve actually had clients that walked into a foyer and said,
“This is it”, an immediate “ah-ha” moment. (Morris)
When it comes to picking a home, men always… …place emphasis on the garage, basement and structural
issues. They usually see the house “as it is” and not what it could be. (Phillips)
…want to know about the structural aspect of the home. (Neese)
…figure out if their toys (boat, motorcycle, car) will fit in the garage. (Minetree)
…lots of men just want to know where their easy-chair is going. (Morris)
And women always……ask about the size of the walk-in closets and ask “do the
window treatments stay?” (Gardner)
…respond to “fluff ” in the decor. Bad paint color choices can turn them away from a house. Often they want a house to be perfect before they move in, even knowing that everything will be changed. (Dean)
…want a functional, recently updated kitchen and bath. (Neese)
…want an updated kitchen even if they never cook. (Mansell)
…get what they want—usually! (Campbell)
The most unusual feature I’ve seen in a house is……a sauna—in the South! (Baskin) …unbelievably detailed, custom trim work and luxury
bath fixtures in a 1000 sq. ft., $39,000 house I currently have on the market. You wouldn’t believe it! (Phillips)
…a set of chains hanging from the ceiling in the basement of someone’s home. Not sure what the chains were for (did not ask) but they were certainly an unusual feature. (Gardner)
…an escape tunnel from a safe room, built to give the homeowners a way out of the house in case the door to the basement is blocked by falling debris. Personally, I thought it was a secret way out of the house if the policecame. (Dean)
My advice to someone who is about to start looking for a home is…
…to make a wish list of what is important to you in a house. (Bernauer)
…to get pre-approved with your bank or mortgage broker. It helps simplify the home buying process by saving valuable time, and the buyer knows what his or her mortgage payment will be before they look at house. (Gardner)
…write down what the features are that are important to you in order of importance. Make sure you let your Realtor have the list up front. Also, even more importantly, if you will need financing, spend the 15 minutes necessary to speak with a local, reputable lender and ask to be pre-qualified. That is helpful in order to see if you are comfortable with possible rates, payments, etc, and when you accompany an offer with a prequalification, it can help you negotiate a better price. (Rogers)
My advice to someone who is about to list their house is…
…get the price right the first time. Look carefully at the comparables and don’t overprice a house just because it is precious to you. Get the house clean and in good order before you begin to show it. Get it staged. (Dean)
…get your house in “parade ready” condition and remember that “clutter eats equity”. (Baskin)
…make yourself familiar with what’s on the market in your
The RealtorsBJ BaskinAnne BernauerBabs CampbellCharlotte DeanDavid GardnerLaDonna MansellPam MinetreeSuzanne MorrisShirley NeeseVicky PhillipsJeannie Rogers
May/June 2010 | 79
Ken Mitchell • 256-765-7020 • 877-765-7020Fax: 256-760-7040 • 250 S. Poplar Street, Florence, AL 35630
Ken Mitchell knows telephone systems, networks and more.
area, and in your home’s price range. Look to see which Realtor that you think has a “pulse on your market”. Andstart doing the little chores that you’ve been putting off around your home. Your Realtor should be able to help you make your “to-do list” in order to have your house sell before the competition sells! (Rogers)
…open the front door and walk in, as if you were looking at the house—make a list of things that would bother you—be honest with yourself! (Bernauer)
If you’re getting a house ready to sell, NEVER… …remodel or over-improve the house beyond what the
neighborhood or area will support. (Phillips) …do it without the help of an experienced and licensed
Realtor. (Rogers) …try to sell it yourself initially. Let a professional
introduce it to the market and take advantage of the professional’s advice. (Dean)
…Never paint like you see on television. Paint a neutral color—no purple! (Bernauer)
…go out of town and leave the animals home alone. (Minetree)
…but ALWAYS…de-clutter—then de-clutter again. (Bernauer) …make sure it is clean and uncluttered. Edit everything!
(Phillips) …de-clutter your home. Remove as many personal photos
as you can. Get an early start on boxing those up. Also, removing unused furniture will help show off the space that your home has to offer. (Gardner)
…ask for a list of homes that have sold recently in your neighborhood in order to price your house effectively. (Rogers)
…make your house “parade ready,” with helpful hints and advice from your Realtor, to show potential buyers. (Campbell)
…scrub it till it gleams. (Mansell)…consider if you do have animals that some people are
allergic, fearful, and even have very discriminating noses. (Minetree)
The biggest mistake home buyers make is……overpricing, overpricing, overpricing. Often relying on
the word of “someone” who offered an opinion about the house—this “someone” is invariably an individual who knows nothing about real estate! (Dean)
…not getting pre-qualified for a loan first, before starting their mission of purchasing a home. (Neese)
I wish people knew this about the real estate market inthe Shoals…
…A house in the Shoals is still the best buy for your money in real estate anywhere. (Dean)
…that our market is OK! We have survived! We have not been affected by the economy like many parts of the country. (Campbell)
…Housing decline has not hit the Shoals yet and I believe we will all be fine…slow recovery is good. (Neese)
…we are seldom on “trend”. What’s happening nationally usually has nothing to do with our local market. (Mansell)
80 | No’Ala
If you want to sell your house, the most effective way tospend money to get it ready is…
…to get it professionally staged—get the advice of a professional about any updates you plan to do. (Dean)
…to have a attractive well kept nicely landscaped entrance to the home, make the inside Q-Tip clean and clutter-free and neutralize the paint colors. (Baskin)
…to call a certified and insured home inspector so you cancomplete any repairs necessary. (Neese)
…deep cleaning and decluttering, painting and making sure anything electrical and mechanical is in good working order. This applies to both the interior and exterior of a home. (Morris)
Don’t waste your time and money on……new furniture, draperies or landscaping if the home isn’t
clean! (Phillips) …“big ticket” items—let the buyer do that, but make it
easy for them… (Bernauer) …trying to sell your home by owner…hire a Realtor with
expertise! (Campbell)…knick knacks…clutter free sells! (Mansell)…high stylized makeovers. Leave the canvas clean enough
for the new buyers to pain their own picture. (Minetree)
I predict that in 50 years every home will……incorporate the use of technology to control the
functions of a home. (Baskin) …have solar panels. (Bernauer) …will be energy efficient. (Gardner) …will be smaller with several family members living under
one roof. (Neese)
I predict in ten years that the real estate market in theShoals will…
…be hotter than ever. As the economy recovers, our local industries will thrive, waterfront property values will continue to rise, land/acreage prices will continue to rise, and demand for homes will continue to rise. (Gardner)
…will continue to be stable. (Neese)…will be stronger than ever. We can’t keep our area a
secret forever…the word is already leaking out. (Mansell)
The recession changed things here by……making it difficult to borrow money. (Baskin) …making it harder to get a mortgage. All the more reason
to get preapproved with a local lender. (Phillips) …allowing buyers to take advantage of incentives created
for harder-hit markets. Buyers have benefited from the low interest rates and from tax credits. (Morris)
People are attracted to the Shoals because… …of its location by the Tennessee River, recreation and
education opportunities, favorable housing costs, low property taxes and proximity to larger cities like Huntsville, Memphis and Nashville. (Baskin)
…it is an absolutely wonderful place to call home! The lakesystem with the water sports that accompany it, the small Southern town feel, the art and cultural community and events, friendly people, fine golf courses, beautiful state of the art library, low cost of living, and quality of life continue to attract newcomers to our area. (Rogers)
…we have so much to offer: beautiful lakes, golf courses, good school systems, community activities, and overall agood quality of living! (Campbell)
…of a wonderful quality of life! The Tennessee River and incredible “Shoals” music—those two things separate us from every other small city in the South! (Minetree)
If I were not a Realtor, I would……be an attorney, a banker, or an appraiser, as they all
relate to the real estate industry… or for more fun… a cruise director. (Campbell)
…I would be a landscaper…love the outdoors. (Mansell)…retired, but working as a volunteer in my community.
(Morris)
My secret to success as a Realtor is……hard work. Trying to think ahead on each transaction so
that you don’t have any surprises, networking with otherprofessionals, communicating with customers on a regular basis, all seem to have helped me be successful. (Rogers)
…to listen to what people want and always be honest with people. (Gardner)
…loving my job! (Minetree)
It’s not just a house……it is a place where loved ones grow old together, a place
families play together, a place Christmas memories are made, a place where your child makes birthday party memories, it is a place where we laugh and cry, a place we spend time with friends, a place where we feel safe; itis a place we call home. (Gardner)
…it’s the biggest investment we have, so the transition from one house to the next needs to be treated with seriousness and professionalism. A Realtor can help thatinvestment remain intact and facilitate a sale from the first stage of getting the home ready to closing out and transferring the deed. For a buyer, getting the right home certainly increases the chances that you have made a smart investment. (Rogers)
…it’s a place we’ve helped you find to live so that you can shelter yourself and those you love. It’s your haven and we’ve help you find that special place that you can call home. (Dean)
…It is an investment, your home and the place where you make memories for your family that are enduring for years to come. (Baskin)
…it’s a home! (Campbell)…As George Carlin said, “It’s the place where we keep our
stuff ”, and hopefully where we make sweet memories. (Morris) N
May/June 2010 | 81
2504 EAST AVALON AVENUESUITE A, MUSCLE SHOALS (256) 381-6889
WWW.JAMIEHOODONLINE.COM
IT’S WHAT JUNE BRIDESARE WEARING THIS YEAR
Floral Design, Event Planning, & Home Accessories(256) 383-2299 · 214 North Montgomery Avenue · Sheffield, Alabama
A Friend of the Bride’s Since 1976
{ parting shot} BY DANNY MITCHELL
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82 | No’Ala
Five convenient locations to serve you.www.firstsouthern.com
For more than 75 years, First SouthernBank has been the home lending
specialist in the Shoals. If you havedreams of becoming a homeowner, or
even of remodeling the home you’re in,these are the people to talk to.
Can we help you with your home financing needs?
Debbie Poole303 N. Pine Street, Florence • 256-718-4237
Brenda Crittenden1027 E. Avalon Ave., Muscle Shoals
• 256-718-4241
With an asthma inhaler from Milner Rushing, he never misses a game.
Familiar Faces, Expert Care • www.mrdrugs.com
869 Florence Blvd.Florence, AL 35630
256-764-4700
202 W. Avalon Ave.Muscle Shoals, AL 35661
256-386-5220
2602 Hough Rd.Florence, AL 35630
256-740-5515
