montgomery’s midtown neighborhoods call the hat team to put … · 2009-04-16 · steve luker...
TRANSCRIPT
What some folks saw as a negativeresulted in a big opportunity for sev-eral new Montgomery homeownerswho have taken advantage of great realestate values near Montgomery Mall.
One of the first to claim the neigh-borhood as his new home was JackThomas, Jr., the new OperationsDirector appointed by Ohio-basedGlimcher Properties at MontgomeryMall.
Jack, who lived in the region ear-lier, returned to Montgomery from aNY-based realty trust, where he wasresponsible for 12 shopping centers insouth Georgia and north Florida.
“It’s definitely convenient to mywork,” said Jack. “I got a lot of housefor my money,” he said of the 3,200-sq.-ft., 2-story Colonial home he pur-chased only three blocks from theMall.“We’re excited about our forthcomingplans to redevelop the mall and see itreturn to its rightful place servingMidtown, the city and region. I’mexcited to be part of the neighbor-
hood,” he said.Studies show the mall is in the
heart of one of largest employmentand retail sales centers in the RiverRegion.
Another family who’ve recentlypurchased in McGehee Place are Peterand Charlotte Brambir. Peter startedthe Gay Meadows HomeownersAssociation.
They just sold their big house andbig yard with a pool on ColonialDrive, to retire to a smaller gardenhome.
They attended their first home-owners association meeting in Octoberand were surprised to learn how manygreat people they knew who live inMcGehee Place.
The Brambirs said they are close totheir old neighborhood, so they antici-pate staying in contact with friendsand using the same Midtown storespreviously patronized.
Both of the Brambirs wereRealtors after he retired from theUSAF. She retired from the Hat-Team
after eight years in 2003.Sandra Nickel, Realtors participated
in the sale and purchase of both houses.Another financial expert who is
excited to see the renewed interest inthe neighborhood is Troy Hughes, vicepresident and branch manager ofRegions Bank at the entrance toMcGehee Place.
Many of his customers live innearby neighborhoods along McGeheeRoad.
“We think the mall is surroundedby some of the premier residentialareas in Midtown and offer their resi-dents lots of value, choice, safety andconvenience,” he said.
Yes, we list and sell high-end homes in Midtown and the region.
Call the Hat Team to put them to work for you!
• The Kovels
• Jack Nicklaus
• Wolfgang Puck
• Working Smart
• Click and Clack
• Sports Trivia
• Crossword
• Chicken Soup
(334) 834-1500
CAPITOL HEIGHTS CLOVERDALE IDLEWILDNARROW LANEGREEN ACRES
$79,900 $126,900 $149,900 $169,900
GARDEN DISTRICT CLOVERDALECAPITOL HEIGHTSNORMANDALE ESTATES
$112,500 $81,900 $69,900 $179,900
VAUGHN MEADOWS DAVE BRADLEYBRENTWOODEDGEWOOD
$253,000 $299,900 $128,900 $64,900All payment estimates based on a 5% down payment and a 6%, 30-year conventional mortgage.
Talk to one of the Hat Team Specialists. We can show any home in Montgomery. Call 834-1500.
SandraNickelBroker
Billy YoungProductionManager
RustyWilkinsonSr. ListingSpecialist
Denton HawkInvestor Buyer
Specialist
LaurenLayfield
BuyerSpecialist
Pam MasseyBuyer
Specialist
Frank PowellBuyer
Specialist
KathyHenderson
Seller ServicesManager
Steve LukerClosing
Manager
MelissaRobertsClosing
Coordinator
Jim NickelTechnicalManager
$1,108 Month
$460 Month
$1,708 Month
$722 Month
$853 Month
$455 Month
$961 Month
$398 Month
$734 Month
$369 Month
$640 Month
$1,434 Month
FFFFeeeeaaaattttuuuurrrreeeedddd IIIInnnnssss iiiiddddeeee
Shop Midtown First CampaignBenefits Residents and Merchants
McGehee Place is Place of Choice for New Residents
www.hat-lady.com
TOP 300 IN THE U.S.REALTOR® Magazine
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Montgomery’s Midtown Neighborhoods
McGehee Place garden home forsale listed by Catherine Bermanat $245,000.
It’s time for holiday shopping. After lauching our well-received and greatly appreciated “Shop Midtown First”campaign last year, Midtown merchants asked for more, andwe’re repeating the message. SHOP MIDTOWN FIRST!
Before you drive outside the bypass, check the offeringsand convenience of the many stores and unique shopsinside the bypass.• Most are locally owned by people who are your neighbors.• Most carry unique merchandise you’ll not find at the bigbox stores which feature products in bulk. • Most will give you personal service with a smile and offerspecial services like wrapping. Some even offer delivery.
UNIQUE STORESShopping in Midtown means there are a dozen small
community shopping centers from which to choose:• Cloverdale Area: the Old Cloverdale Business Districtalong E. Fairview Ave. and Woodley Rd., and CloverdaleVillage on Cloverdale Rd. and Graham St.• Mulberry Business District: Country Club Center andshops along Mulberry St. and Carter Hill Rd.• McGehee Road area merchants: Gay Meadows Shopping,Olde Town Shopping Village, Montgomery Mall, andColonial Shoppes at McGehee Place and other fine storesalong McGehee Road.• Zelda Business District: Zelda Place, Hillwood Center,
Hillwood Festival and Westminster Shopping.• Others: There are several unique and convenient shopsscattered downtown, on Madison Ave., Mt. Meigs Rd,Highland Ave. Vaughn Rd., and Perry Hill Rd.
All told, there are more than 200 stores (see our com-plete list inside) where you can find great gifts, fill holidayneeds from choosing cards to selecting wrapping papersand shipping, gifts, and you will find places for treats andfood for those, hurried busy days until the end of the year.
SAVINGS NOT WORTH HASSLEThe few cents you may save elsewhere will actually
cost you more in time, gas and wear on your car – not tomention personal frustration.
With the time you’ll save shopping Midtown and notfighting the bypass traffic and big parking lot jams, join usfor the many neighborhood events, open houses and publicperformances celebrating the season (full calendar inside).Join us, too on Saturday, December 11, for a free showingsof Shirley Temple movies at the Capri Theater. It is ourChristmas gift to you and your family.
So this year, join with your neighbors and let’s ShopMidtown First!
-Sandra Nickel
Page 14 • Your Family Home Page 3 • Your Family Home
MOVERS
Resource Guide Thank you to the following Midtown Living Partners for their participation & investment in this publication. When you patronize these companies,please tell them you saw their ad in Sandra Nickel’s Midtown Living.
MORTGAGE
ATTORNEY
PRE-SELL INSPECTIONS
HOME INSPECTION
MORTGAGE MORTGAGE AUTOMOTIVE
INSPECTION
GARY PITTMANMortgage Loan
Officer
8301 Crossland Loop
213-1347
FHA, VA andCONVENTIONAL
LOANS
ResidentialMortgage
Corporation
Take advantageof the historic
low rates!
Apply by phoneSteve & Samye Kermish
270-9100
RMC
SCOTT MCNELLY1200 NEWELL PKWY.
262-6666SMCNELLEY@
ADMIRALMOVERS.COM
FREE ESTIMATESEXPERT PACKINGLOCAL/WORLDWIDE
INTERSTATE AGENTFOR AMERICAN
RED BALL
ROY E.MCBRYAR
ATTORNEY AT LAW
4241 Lomac StreetMontgomery, AL 36106
272-1065FAX 272-5363
FOR ALL YOUR REALESTATE NEEDS
No representation is made that thequality of the legal services to be
provided is greater than the quality oflegal services performed by others.
Smart-PayMortgage
Interest OnlyRates Below Prime!
Up to 100% Financing
WELLSFARGO
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Call Andy LittleHome Mortgage Consultant
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AMS REAL ESTATEINSPECTION, LLC
ALLEN STUCKEY1002 S HULL ST.
834-7969
Real Estate InspectionsPlumbing, Heating/AC,
Electrical, Roof, FoundationPre-Purchase Inspection
Synthetic Stucco Inspection
We make you a betterhome buyer!
Certified HomeInspections
Call: Lee Hester850.4939E-mail:
REAL PROPERTYCONSULTING, LLC.
Where Southern HospitalityMeets Modern Technology
Putting 27 Years of LocalExperience to Work
in Montgomery.
215-4526
John Herzog, CMB
What a blessing it is to live in a city whoseresidents care for one another. Hurricane Ivanhit us personally when a huge tree fell on our S.Lawrence Street house.
Within minutes neighbors were at our doorand Police came to check on us. Over the nextfew hours, the City responded with a variety ofservice persons who removed the trees off ourroof and even out of the yard. Then Utilitycompany personel worked tirelessly to getthings back in working order in the entireneighborhood.
We were without power for a few days, butthankful we came to know some neighbors thatwe previously hadn’t met, a rarity in theGarden District. This story could be repeated inmany Midtown neighborhoods by manyMidtown residents. We have fewer trees tow-ering in the sky, but we have a few more side-walk friends and tall stories to share about a
horrific storm that came our way in midSeptember 2004.
Thanks to all the individuals who helpedone another in this time of need. Thanks to thejournalists, photographers, and reporters whokept us informed of the latest news and fore-casts. Thanks to the utility providers from inand out-of-state who came to our city’s rescue.Thanks to the local folks who will be cleaningup and repairing Ivan’s mess for months.
In the face of crisis, neighbors bandtogether, whether it is in lower Manhattan orMidtown Montgomery. A common need bringsout the best in all of us. Now, perhaps we canwork together on other critical issues that faceour city. We can accomplish a lot in a short timewhen we look after one another and work coop-eratively. God bless you all.
-Sandra Nickel
Storm Brings Out the Best in Midtown
THANKS FOR SHOPPING WITH THESE MERCHANTS.TELL THEM YOU APPRECIATE THEM –
THEY’RE INSIDE THE BYPASS.Uniquely MIDTOWN MERCHANTS
Save time. There�s something worth giving or getting this holiday season from every shop in Zelda Place.
2940 SalonB Barganier Interior AccentsBridals by PenoliaClay, Metal & StoneCAS Gallery & FramesFirst Command FinancialFitness Solutions
Jos. A. Bank ClothiersKlein & SonMoe�s Southwest GrillNancy Paterson�s BistroTalbotsTalbots PetitesTang�s Alterations
The Tobacco LeafUptown ExclusiveWolf Camera Center
Zelda Place
1979 – 2004
25YEARS OF
EXCELLENCE
SAC’S GALLERYMontgomery, AL
SOCIETY OF ARTS & CRAFTS2001 Mulberry Street
Montgomery, AL 36106
Gallery Hours: Tues. – Fri. 10:00 – 4:30 & Sat. 10 – 3
SAC’s 25th Christmas Art & Craft ShowAlcazar Shriners Temple, East Blvd. • Saturday, Nov. 13 and Sunday, Nov. 14
120 Arts & Crafts Booths from artists and crafts persons throughout the Southeast. No Admission Fee • Call (334) 265-9931 for more information or visit,
www.sacsgallery.com/chrshowinfo.html
CAS Gallery & FramesIn Zelda Place
Museum Quality Custom FramingArchival Material
Full Preservation Practices
2960-F Zelda Road • 334.271.3772
CORPORATEART SOURCE
Providing corporate consulting to southern businesses for more than 20 years.
CAS Gallery Fine ArtFine Art AppraisalsFine Art Brokerage
Private Acquisitions/Consulting/Sales
www.casgallery.com
OPEN FOR HOLIDAY SHOPPING
1041 East Fairview Avenue(Next door to Capri Theatre)
334.262.8256
The new location of the beautiful
StonehengeGallery.
SEXTONTIRE & SERVICE CENTER
$5 OFF ANY SERVICEExpires 12/31/04
24-Hour Road Services7 A.M. – 6 P.M.
2718 Zelda Road272-2555
NATIONAL PROPERTYINSPECTIONS
North American's PremierInspection Service
Christopher (Chip) JonesProfessional inspector/owner
Licensed & Insured
Home Seller’s Pre-listing InspectionNew Home Warranty Inspections
Home Buyer's Inspections
467-8616 • fax: [email protected]
www.npiweb.com/cjones
Community involvement – a collectivestrength that makes dreams cometrue. Great thing happen when wework together toward a common goal.At Regions, our dream is to strengthenour community through a spirit ofteamwork. And we are doing our bestto make that dream come true.
The Strength To Help You Do More
MEMBER FDIC1-800-REGIONS
WWW.REGIONS.COM
©2004 Regions Bank P41142-LUC-R2571
Mortgage, Inc.
SEXTON TIRE & SERVICE CENTER
SAC's GalleryARTIST’S RECEPTIONNorma Jean Robinson, OilsSun, Nov. 7, 2 p.m.-4 p.m.
2001 Mulberry St.279-6876
Gallery OneBOOK SIGNING
Charles Rose, In the Midst of LifeThurs., Nov. 11, 5:30 p.m.-7 p.m.
425 Cloverdale Rd269-1114
Mulberry DistrictHOLIDAY OPEN HOUSE
Mulberry, Carter Hill, Club ViewFri., Nov. 12, Sat., Nov. 13, 9 a.m.-4 p.m.,
Sun., Nov. 14, 1 p.m.-4 p.m.,265-3200
SACS GalleryCHRISTMAS OPEN HOUSE
25th Anniversary ShowSat., Nov. 13, 10 a.m.-4 p.m., Sun., 1-4 p.m.
2001 Mulberry St265-9931
Old Alabama Town HOLIDAY CELEBRATION
DOLLS, TOY & TRAIN EXHIBITSFree Exhibit at Loeb Center
301 Columbus St.Nov. 26-Dec. 30
240-4500
SAC's GalleryARTIST'S RECEPTION
Linda Gilliland, DollsSun, Dec. 5, 2 p.m.-4 p.m.
2001 Mulberry St.279-6876
Gallery OneBOOK SIGNING
Montgomery Sketchbook-River RegionThurs., Dec. 9, 5:30 p.m.-7 p.m.
425 Cloverdale Rd.269-1114
Capital HeightsCANDELIGHT TOUR OF HOMES
Sat., Dec. 11, 3:30 p.m.-7 p.m. S. Capital Pkwy.
Advance Tickets on Sale, Area merchants 263-5179
Old Cloverdale Business DistrictOLD CLOVERDALE CHRISTMAS
Sat., Dec. 11, 12 p.m.-8 p.m.Woodley Rd. and E. Fairview Ave.
834-1500
Cottage Hill & Five Points DistrictsCANDLELIGHT TOUR
Starts at Jubilee Center432 S. Goldthwaite
Sun., Dec. 12, 2 p.m.-6 p.m.Advance Tickets on Sale
269-4698
F. Scott & Zelda Fitzgerald MusuemCHRISTMAS OPEN HOUSE
919 Felder Ave.Sun., Dec. 19, 1 p.m.-4 p.m.
264-4222
Upcoming Events in Midtown Neighborhoods
A past Highland Park resident recently wrote a letterreprinted in the neighborhood’s newsletter. She stillresides in Montgomery and has graciously consented tosharing her earlier childhood and wartime experiences,edited for length, with a new generation of residents.Consider the memories that went on in your Old House.
Our Mansion on Poplar StreetAt 5 years old in 1928, my family moved to 502 Poplar
Street (now 2506 on the “edge of town,” There were nopaved streets and no street of any kind south or east ofPoplar.
My father worked with the Singer Sewing MachineCompany. We had only one car, as did most families weknew. My mother stayed at home with my younger brotherand me. My father had lost an arm in his job with the rail-road while he awaited orders to report for military service.
We thought our three-bedroom house on Poplar Streetwas wonderful and my father often said that when he gothome in the afternoon, he felt like he was in a mansion. Itwas certainly far from a mansion compared to houses now(or even then). We were poor but so was everyone weknew, so we never even realized that we were poor untilmuch later.
Soon a few more houses were built around us and webecame friends with all the neighbors. An especially joyfultime for us was the rare occasion when we could stay outafter dark and play together under the street light on thecorner of Ryan and Poplar. We played “May I” and “RedLight” and few things have been as much fun since.
Each afternoon Mother would promise my brother andme that, if we would take a nap, she would order us a Dr.Pepper from the store (on Ryan Street). No drink has evertasted so good as those did. Imagine having two colddrinks delivered for a total of ten cents. Dr. Pepper was abig name then, as now. 10-2-4. Every child knew thatslogan.
I remember my first day of school at HighlandElementary. My mother walked with me that first day andeverything was wonderful.
Another happy occasion was the day I went to thebirthday party of Clyde Wayne Grant, who lived across thestreet.
I somehow won a little porcelain cat band and I haveseveral of the pieces yet. It is hard for children now tounderstand how important something like that was, but wehad so few things, other than necessities, that every toywas cherished. For Christmas I always received a fifty-centdoll (I’m not sure how we knew it cost fifty cents) and anorange. I don’t remember ever having a birthday party butI remember going to a few.
When I was in the third grade, Highland AvenueSchool had a Tom Thumb wedding. I was the bride andHenry Claude Allen was the groom. Mother made mywedding dress out of an old dress of hers. The “wedding”was at night and they charged a quarter to come. That wasbig money back then. The downstairs of the school waspacked and people were sitting on the stairs.
My family was members of Capitol Heights Church ofChrist, but we often went to Highland Avenue Church(now the Crump Community Center) for revivals and spe-cial services. We attended church almost all day on Sundayand when there were revivals sometimes every nightduring the week. We had many church friends as well asneighbors and relatives.
With the neighbors, too, there was much visiting.Everybody knew each other and the adults would sittogether and talk while the children played in the yard.There was no television, but we loved “Amos and Andy,”“Lum and Abner,” “Fibber McGee and Molly,” “Georgeand Gracie,” and later“Wilderness Road.”
There was also no centralheating or air conditioning. In thewinter there was heat only in thekitchen (a wood-burning stovethat also heated water) and,sometimes, a coal fire in theliving room. My father wouldcover the hot coals with ashes atnight and then, in the morning,stir the coals and add a little morecoal. I remember looking into mybedroom mirror and thinking thatthere was no way I could do any-thing with my hair until warmerweather because my bedroomwas so frigid that I could not bearto stay in it except in the bed. Ishall never forget how loved I feltwhen my mother heated a blanketin front of the fire on the coldest nights and then tucked mein with the warmth of the blanket and her love. In thesummer time, we slept with all the windows open and anoscillating fan blowing between bedrooms but it was still sohorribly hot that we lay there awake most of the night.
On Sunday afternoon Daddy usually took us for a ride.That was a treat because we rarely went for a pleasure tripof any kind. Later, he took us to Union Station and parkedso that we could sit and watch the trains come in and leave.Sometimes he would allow us to get out of the car andstand back of the iron fence so that we could see better. Ifwe had enough time, then, before time for church serviceto start, he would park on Dexter Avenue and we would“window shop.”
“In the spring and summer the “vegetable man” (some-times a woman) would bring his produce wagon by thehouse early in the morning. Mother would sit on the porchand shell peas or beans and cook them for dinner.
Dinner was always in the middle of the day and supperwas late afternoon or evening. What was left at dinner wasleft on the table with a cloth over it to keep away the fliesuntil suppertime. and eaten without reheating.
I do not remember anyone getting sick. We had meatonly on Sundays unless the preachers were coming to eat.In the summer Mother “put up” vegetables and jellieswhich carried us through the winters. We almost never hadcanned or snack food, although I always longed for it. Oneof my cousins had Ritz crackers and grape juice forSunday supper and I thought they were rich.
Milk was delivered to front porches and when it wasfreezing, we thought it was a real treat to have frozen milkwith a little sugar in it.
We had chickens in our backyard, as did many families,and for a time we had a cow. The chickens were usuallyreserved for when the preachers came to eat but, once in awhile, we just had relatives over for chicken.
I never had a “ready-made” dress until I was in Lanier.Mother was a wonderful seamstress and made beautifulclothes for me but oh, how I wished for a bought dress.By this time several other families had moved into thestreets near us. Back of us was still only trees and thickets
and little trails that we children made as we explored the“woods.” Children truly got enough exercise back then.
Sometime within that period of my attending elemen-tary school, Poplar Street was paved. Each homeowner hadto contribute his part of the cost, which was a very hardthing to do.
When I finished the fourth grade, the Singer Companytransferred my father to Selma, a real challenge. We rentedour house,and stayed for two years. We rented a house nextto Highland Avenue Elementary School and later furtherdown Highland Avenue until the lease had expired.
By the time we returned to Montgomery, I was in the sev-enth grade at Capitol Heights Junior High School. Soon after-wards, my father lost his job because no one could afford tobuy sewing machines or anything else. For several weeks, hecould find no employment. I shall never forget how veryhappy we all were when he went to work with the
Montgomery Advertiser as a routeforeman, which was a fancy wayto say that he was in charge ofhaving the newspaper thrown onthe porches of the subscribers inCapitol Heights. Life was reallyhard financially for several years.We could not make our mortgagepayments, but very few peoplecould so the banks certainly didn’twant to foreclose and have allthose houses on their hands thatnobody could afford to buy. Whenwe got holes in the soles of ourshoes, my parents went to Kressand bought rubber soles andcemented them on so that wecould wear them another year.Even though we were so poor, lifeat Capitol Heights Junior Highwas so much fun. On weekends
we had proms and progressive dinners.Later I attended Lanier, the only senior high in
Montgomery. Two weeks after I finished high school I mar-ried and my husband and I moved to Birmingham. InDecember 1941 we came home to Poplar Street to visit myparents. On Sunday, December 7, my cousin from next doorcame over and told us “They’ve bombed Pearl Harbor.” Wereally had no idea where Pearl Harbor was but we turned onthe radio and listened to Franklin Roosevelt tell us thatAmerica was at war and the only thing we have to fear is“fear itself.” Very soon my husband decided that he should“sign up,” so he enlisted in the Naval Seabees and our infantson and I came home to Poplar Street to stay with Motherand Daddy for the next three years or so until the war wasover. Unless you have lived through such a war, there is noway to understand how tough it was, not only on those whowere fighting but those families left behind. I didn’t hearfrom Herman for months at a time and then I would receiveten or twelve letters at once.
On VE Day everybody went to churches and prayed allday. Everywhere were billboards of Uncle Sam with hisfinger to his lips saying, “Sh, the enemy is listening.”Several of the boys I went to school with were killed in thewar and others were permanently disabled. I shall neverforget the dancing in the streets when the war was finallyover with everyone kissing everyone else. The world, how-ever, was changed forever and that age of trust and inno-cence was over.
When Herman came home, we remained inMontgomery. That wonderful house on Poplar Streetbecame “home” to my children and their children and mybrother’s children and grandchildren as well.
Both my parents continued to live at 2506 Poplar Streetuntil my father died in 1984 and my mother lived thereuntil her death at age 90 in 1991. It took me several yearsto go through all the memorabilia of those 63 years, but thesweet memories of our “mansion” of love, faith and joywill be with us all the days of our lives and live on formany generations to come.
– Merle Furlong Haynes
A Look Back …Former Resident Remembers Six Decades in Highland Park
Page 7 • Your Family HomePage 10 • Your Family Home
OPEN HOUSES & TOURS
Capital HeightsTREE LIGHTING
Armstrong Park,Madison Ave.
Sat., Dec. 4, 7 p.m.263-5179
Old CloverdaleTREE LIGHTING
Cloverdale ParkSun., Dec. 7, 4 p.m.-5 p.m.
262-2888
Cottage HillsAFTER TOUR PARTY
Jean’s Florist506 Sayre St.
Sun., Dec. 12 6:00 p.m.Tickets at any
Jim Massey Cleaners Branch269-4698
HillwoodNIGHTS OF WHITE LIGHTS
Free EventLocated on all streets, N. of Vaughn
Dec. 12–26, Dusk until271-0606
Highland ParkNEIGHBORHOOD DINNER
Sat., Dec. 18, 7 p.m.Crump Community Center
Bring Covered Dish263-3592
Cloverdale-IdlewildHOLIDAY CAROLS
& BONFIREThurs., December 23, 6:30 p.m.
Dupont Park at Cloverdale BottomsBring Cookies
834-6030
Huntingdon CollegePOEMS OF THE SOUTHRhoda Ellison Writers‚ Festival
Cloverdale Theatre Thur., Nov. 11, 7 p.m
East Fairview Ave.833-4374
Alabama Dance TheaterMISTLE TOE
TU’s Davis Theatre251 Montgomery St
Nov. 12,13, 14, 7:30 p.m. & 2:30 p.m.Box Office 241-2800
Montgomery SymphonyARTIST SEASON PERFORMANCE
featuring Percussionist Kelsy TamayoTU’s Davis Theater 251 Montgomery St
Mon., Nov. 22, 7:30 p.m.Box Office 240-4004
SERVICE OF LESSONS & CAROLS
Lignon Chapel, Free EventThur., Dec. 2, 7:30 p.m.
833-4515
Montgomery BalletTHE NUTCRACKER
TU’s Davis Theatre251 Montgomery St
Thur., Dec. 2-Sun., Dec. 5,2:00 p.m. & 7:30 p.m.Box Office 409-0522
Huntington CollegeTREE LIGHTINGEntrance, Flowers Hall
E. Fairview Ave.Thurs., Dec. 2, 7 p.m.
Montgomery Chorale & Youth ChoraleSOUNDS OF THE HOLIDAYS
Judical Building, 300 Dexter Ave.Fri., Dec. 3, 7:30 p.m. & Sun., Dec. 5, 2:30 p.m.Box Office 265-3737
Huntingdon CollegeCHRISTMAS OPERA
Amahl and the Night Visitors,Clovedale Theater
Sat.-Sun, Dec. 4 p.m.-5 p.m.,2:30 p.m. & Dec. 5, 7:30 p.m.
Tickets 833-4457
City of MontgomeryHOLIDAY PARADE
Dexter Ave.Sat., Dec. 4, 5:30 p.m.
241-7438
US Air Force Band, Airmen of NoteGLENN MILLER HOLIDAY
CONCERTTU's Davis Theater
251 Montgomery StreetMon. & Tues, Dec. 6 & 7, 7 p.m.
Free, but ticket requiredAvailable at any Region’s
Bank branchCanned food donations
accepted at door
First Baptist Church LIVING CHRISTMAS TREES
Thurs-Sun., Dec. 10, 11, 12 4:30 p.m., 7 p.m. 305 S. Perry St.
ADVANCE TICKET REQUIRED834-6310, 241-5156
Friends of the Public LibraryUSED BOOK SALE:
CHILDREN, NOVELS,TECHNICAL, REFERENCE
Fri. & Sat., Dec. 10-119 a.m. -5 p.m.245 High St.
265-1616
Montgomery SymphonyHOLIDAY POPSTU’s Davis Theater 251 Montgomery St.
Sun. Dec. 12, 2:30 p.m.; Mon. Dec. 13, 7:30 p.m.
Box Office 240-4004
NEIGHBORHOOD EVENTS
UPCOMING DOWNTOWN PUBLICPERFORMANCES
Sandra,
CLOTHING, ACCESSORIES FOR HERAvenue Plus.............................................................Colonial PromenadeChantilly Boutique ................................................................Zelda RoadThe Crate ...........................................Madison Avenue, McGehee RoadDenson’s............................................................................... Zelda RoadThe Elephant Walk........................................................Central ParkwayEve’s Shoes ................................................................Montgomery Mall Express .......................................................................Montgomery Mall The Hob Nob.........................................................Norman Bridge RoadGoody’s.........................................................Colonial Promenade NorthGloria’s ...........................................................................Mulberry StreetJCPenney Women’s Store ..........................................Montgomery MallLady Foot Locker .......................................................Montgomery MallLane Bryant ................................................................Montgomery MallNew York & Company ...............................................Montgomery MallParisian............................................................................McGehee RoadRevenge ......................................................................Montgomery MallMotherhood Maternity ...............................................Montgomery MallRoyal Express.............................................................Montgomery Mall Scentsations ................................................................Montgomery MallTalbots ...................................................................................Zelda RoadThe Sisters’ Place ...........................................................Mulberry StreetTwo Sisters .........................................................................Oxford DriveUniform Plus More ........................................................Mulberry StreetVictoria’s Secret .........................................................Montgomery Mall Wardrobe 4 Success .......................................................Mulberry StreetWet Seal......................................................................Montgomery Mall
CLOTHING, GIFTS FOR HIMJos. A Banks Clothiers ..........................................................Zelda RoadBrenner’s Luggage ........................................................Carter Hill RoadCity Gear ....................................................................Montgomery Mall Echoes of Italy............................................................Montgomery MallExpress Men...............................................................Montgomery MallGoody's .........................................................Colonial Promenade NorthJCPenney Men’s Store ...............................................Montgomery MallThe Locker Room .........................................................Carter Hill RoadMarty’s Mens Clothing ..............................................Montgomery MallNew Ware Fine Men’s Clothing ..................Shoppes at McGehee Place Oxford Street ..............................................................Montgomery MallParisian Store for Men....................................................McGehee RoadS&K Men’s Wear ....................................................Colonial PromenadeThe Tobacco Leaf..................................................................Zelda Road
ACCESSORIES, SERVICES FOR THE BRIDE & GROOMAfter Hours Formal Wear...........................................Montgomery MallAll About Weddings................................................Colonial PromenadeAlways A Brides Maid ...............................................Montgomery MallBrenner’s Luggage ........................................................Carter Hill RoadBridals by Penolia .................................................................Zelda RoadJim Massey Formals & Bridal ......................................Carter Hill RoadLa Shea ........................................................................Clubview AvenuePhotographs by Andre...........................................................Zelda RoadThe Paper Store.............................................................Carter Hill RoadVideo Productions Unlimited................................................Zelda Road
CLOTHING AND TOYS FOR CHILDREN & TEENSBarb’s Giftwears.............................................................Mulberry StreetChildren’s Place..........................................................Montgomery Mall The Children’s Shop.......................................................Mulberry StreetClaire’s Boutique........................................................Montgomery MallThe Dollhouse Shop.......................................................Mulberry StreetKids Corner................................................................Club View AvenueGap Kids.....................................................................Montgomery MallJCPenney ....................................................................Montgomery MallKids Foot Locker........................................................Montgomery MallKids Korner ................................................................Montgomery MallParisian Store for Children.........................................Montgomery MallRave............................................................................Montgomery MallRepeat Performance for Children ..................................Mulberry StreetPatty Cakes ..................................................................West Third StreetD'Livia Boutique ............................................................Mulberry StreetJC Penney for Children ..............................................Montgomery MallRugged Wearhouse..................................................Colonial Promenade
SHOES FOR GOING OUT OR STAYING HOMEFinish Line..................................................................Montgomery MallFoot Locker ................................................................Montgomery MallJCPenney shoe store...................................................Montgomery MallJourneys Shoe.............................................................Montgomery MallParisian .......................................................................Montgomery MallShoe Station ............................................................Colonial PromenadeTwo Sisters Shoe Salon........................Oxford Drive at McGehee RoadUnderground Station Shoe .........................................Montgomery Mall
PERSONAL ACCESSORIES, JEWELRY FOR HER AND HER HOMEApropros .......................................................................Cloverdale RoadGloria’s ...........................................................................Mulberry StreetParisian............................................................................McGehee RoadRosemont Gardens Gift Shop .......................................Carter Hill Road
GIFTS FOR THE GARDENERDW Moody .....................................................................McGehee RoadDimensions ...................................................................Madison Avenue The Lily Pad ...................................................................Mulberry StreetMontgomery Seed & Feed...............................................Dexter AvenuePretty In Pots .............................................................West Fourth StreetSnooty Miss Moody’s.....................................................McGehee Road
GIFTS FOR THE SPORTS MINDEDJust Golf ................................................................................Zelda RoadAdventure Sports II ................................................................Ann StreetDancewear Etc. .........................................................Club View AvenueEd’s Art & Frames ........................................................Carter Hill RoadBama Fever/Tiger Pride .............................................Montgomery MallSports Authority............................................Colonial Promenade NorthSports Cards + NASCAR...........................................Montgomery MallChamps Sports............................................................Montgomery MallFinish Line..................................................................Montgomery Mall
BOOKS FOR SERIOUS READERSBlack Belt Publishers .....................................................Mulberry StreetBooks-A-Million .....................................................Woodmere CrossingCapital Books & News .........................................East Fairview AvenueCollegiate Books Store............................................................Lee StreetNew South Books ........................................Washington & Court Street The Agape Shop/Heaven’s Depot music and Books..........Madison Avenue
ARTWORK, FRAMES, GIFTS FOR ART LOVERSArt & Frames..................................................................Perry Hill RoadEd’s Frames...................................................................Carter Hill RoadCAS Gallery ..........................................................................Zelda RoadGallery One...................................................................Cloverdale RoadGoat Hill Gift Shop .............................................................Union StreetHighland Gallery..........................................................Highland AvenueJeff4son Creations Gallery............................................Madison AvenueMarsha Weber’s Art Source .............................................Woodley RoadNew South Art Shop.................................................Montgomery StreetSACS Gallery .................................................................Mulberry StreetStonehenge Gallery...............................................East Fairview Avenue
FURNITURE, ACCESSORIES, GIFTS FOR THE HOMEBailey’s Radio Hospital Furniture Store ........................N. McDonoughBarganier Interiors.................................................................Zelda RoadBishop-Parker .................................................................McGehee RoadCulp Dimensions Furniture...........................................Madison AvenueCustom Draperies...........................................................Mulberry StreetKing Cotton Fabrics ...........................................................Spruce StreetLee Ann Interiors ...............................................................Vaughn RoadLilies of the Field ........................................................Clubview AvenueDimensions Furniture ...................................................Madison Avenue Stein Mart................................................................Colonial PromenadeStonehenge Lamps........................................................Cloverdale RoadWeaver Furniture...........................................................Madison AvenueCloverdale Oriental Rugs.................................................Woodley RoadOrec Floor Care ......................................................Colonial PromenadeSnooty Miss Moody’s.....................................................McGehee RoadJCPenney Home Store................................................Montgomery Mall
GIFTS FOR THE SEAMSTRESSCrazy Needlework..........................................................Mulberry StreetKing Cotton Fabrics ...........................................................Spruce StreetThe Knit Shop...............................................................Carter Hill RoadRose of Sharon .........................................................West Second StreetThe Sewing Room..........................................................Mulberry StreetSarah Howard Stone........................................Boultier & East FairviewTang’s Alterations.....................................Cloverdale Road, Zelda Road
ACCESSARIES FOR THE HOME, BED & BATHBrass Fountain ..............................................................Cloverdale RoadChristine’s Feathered Nest ....................................East Fairview AvenueElla’s .....................................................................East Fairview AvenueFeet in the Creek ............................................................Mulberry StreetSnooty Miss Moody’s.....................................................McGehee RoadStonehenge....................................................................Cloverdale RoadTrade Secret Nail Care ...............................................Montgomery Mall
GIFTS FOR THE HOME & KITCHENCloverdale Oriental Rug Market......................................Woodley RoadGloria’s ...........................................................................Mulberry StreetGigi’s NY Kitchen Co........................Vaughn Road at Central ParkwayPeir One Imports.............................................................McGehee RoadThe Paper Store.............................................................Carter Hill RoadTupperware.................................................................Montgomery Mall
HOLIDAY BAKED, COOKED GOODS TO HELP THE CHEFBruno’s Bakery & Deli ..................................................Perry Hill RoadCafe Louisa ...........................................................East Fairview AvenueCookies by Design..........................................................McGehee RoadChappy’s Deli ..............................................................Carmichael RoadFood World Bakery.........................................................McGehee RoadLiger’s Bakery ................................................................McGehee RoadShashy’s Bakery .............................................................Mulberry StreetSuper Foods Bakery & Deli ...........................................McGehee RoadThe Cookie Company ................................................Montgomery MallWinn Dixie Bakery & Deli ..................Carter Hill Road, Vaughn Road,......................................................East Patton Avenue, Mt. Meigs Road
ELECTRONICS & MUSIC FOR TALKERS,LISTENERS & PLAYERSAllTell Mobile.........................................................Colonial PromenadeBailey Brothers Music ....................................................Jefferson StreetBest Buy..................................................................Woodmere CrossingBlockbuster Video ...................................................Colonial PromenadeCulp Piano & Organ .....................................................Madison AvenueD Image Photo............................................................Montgomery MallEB Games Video Store...............................................Montgomery MallFunky Phones .............................................................Montgomery MallMovie Gallery ...............................................................Carter Hill RoadNextel ......................................Shoppes at McGehee Place, Zelda RoadPremier Video ...............................................................Madison AvenueRadio Shack ..................Colonial Promenade North, Montgomery MallSam Goody.................................................................Montgomery MallVerizon Wireless.........................................................Montgomery MallWolf Camera & Video...........................................................Zelda Road
SEASONAL CARDS, DECORATIONS, WRAPS, FLOWERS Adams Drugs ..................................................................McGehee RoadCVS ..............................................................Forest Avenue, Zelda RoadAl’s Flowers ..................................................................Carter Hill RoadCapital’s Rosemont Gardens..........................................Rosemont PlaceGracie’s English .............................................................Mulberry StreetHallmark.....................................................................Montgomery MallLilies of the Field ........................................................Clubview AvenueMontgomery Curb Market ............................................Madison AvenuePainted Pink....................................................................Mulberry StreetThe Paper Store.............................................................Carter Hill RoadPatty Cakes ..................................................................West Third StreetRichardson’s.....................................................................Woodley RoadRite Aide ........................Olde Town Shopping Square, Perry Hill PlaceThe Sister’s Place ...........................................................Mulberry StreetYesterday’s Memories ....................................................Mulberry StreetThe Medicine Shop.......................................................Madison Avenue
COLLECTIBLES FOR COLLECTORSSports Cards+ NASCAR............................................Montgomery MallThe Hen Pen...................................................................Mulberry StreetThings Remembered ..................................................Montgomery Mall
JEWELRY FOR ALLBarry Lynch, Jeweler ............................................East Fairview AvenueBromberg’s......................................................................McGehee RoadFriedman’s Jewelers ...................................................Montgomery MallGold & Diamonds ......................................................Montgomery MallHarold’s Fine Jewelry ...........................................................Zelda RoadKay Jewelers...............................................................Montgomery MallKlein & Son ..........................................................................Zelda RoadJCPenny Jewelry Store...............................................Montgomery MallJewel Connection .......................................................Montgomery MallJewel Time..................................................................Montgomery Mall New York Jewelry.......................................................Montgomery MallSilver & Gold Connection..........................................Montgomery MallWhitehall Jewellers ....................................................Montgomery MallYesteryears Antique Jewelry...........................................McGehee RoadZales ...........................................................................Montgomery Mall
UNIQUE, SEASONAL GIFTS FOR WHOMEVERBarb’s Next Door ...........................................................Mulberry StreetCottage Collections.......................................................Cloverdale RoadOld Alabama Town .......................................................Columbus StreetGoat Hill Gift Shop .............................................................Union StreetBrenner’s Luggage ........................................................Carter Hill RoadRosemont Gardens Gift Shop .......................................Carter Hill RoadWet Pets ..........................................................................McGehee RoadIn the Mood ....................................................................Mulberry StreetStyle Setters................................................................Montgomery Mall
INEXPENSIVE STOCKING STUFFERSCVS ..............................................................Forest Avenue, Zelda RoadDollar General...............................Colonial Shoppes at McGehee PlaceDollar Tree...............................Colonial Promenade, Montgomery MallIn the Mood ....................................................................Mulberry StreetShades.........................................................................Montgomery MallSunglass Hut...............................................................Montgomery Mall
SPECIALTY FOODS & WINES FOR ANY OCCASIONA+Gourmet...................................................................ClubviewAvenueFilet & Vine...................................................................Cloverdale RoadGNC...............................................Carter Hill Road, Montgomery Mall
ANTIQUES FOR THOSE WHO LOVE THE PASTAntiques and Drapes of Distinction...............................Mulberry StreetBeckett Antiques ...........................................................Cloverdale RoadCloverdale Oriental Rug Market......................................Woodley RoadDe Jais Antiques...........................................................Highland AvenueEmily Dearman Antiques..............................................Cloverdale RoadFrances Edward‚s Antiques ..................................East Fairview AvenueHerron House Antiques......................................................Herron StreetNicole Malone French Antiques................................Goldthwaite StreetOld Cloverdale Antiques...............................................Cloverdale RoadPickwick Antiques..........................................................Perry Hill RoadSheffield Antiques ............................................................Graham StreetTreasure Chest Antiques.................................................Mulberry StreetThe Unicorn Shop Antiques...........................................Mulberry StreetWhimsey Antiques ........................................................Carter Hill Road
HOLIDAY SHIPPING AND MAILINGKinko’s Fed Ex.............................................Colonial Promenade NorthUPS Store ..............................................................................Zelda Road
There’s great shopping in the neighborhoods closer to home. Merchants gowhere they think the customers will be. Most Midtown retail stores are locallyowned. They are unique. Others may not drive in to shop them since their adver-tising dollars may be limited, but if we don’t patronize them, they will leave.When you next shop, thank them for locating in Midtown. Their patronage and
success means others will follow. Let others fight the staled traffic, hunting forparking and the crowds inside the big box stores going for the same look alike-items on their shelves. So save fuel and stress. Midtowners don’t follow thecrowds because they know unique merchandise and memorable gifts in theRiver Region are found in Midtown.
Why Shop Outside the Bypass? Midtowner’s choose the INside track.
INside the bypass,that is.
CONVENIENT MIDTOWN NEIGHBORHOOD SHOPPING GUIDEWhen deciding where to shop for yourself or others, choose from among these close by merchants:
We�ll take You Back In TimeWhen Personal Service Reigned In Montgomery
OPEN HOUSE, FREE MOVIE, SANTA, REFRESHMENTS, MUSICSATURDAY, DECEMBER 11, Noon to 8 p.m.
Unique Shopping • Food • Entertainment
Old Cloverdale
Cloverdale Village
East Fairview Avenue & Woodley Road
The Shops of
MAKE US YOUR FIRST STOPThousands from across the Southeast come to shop with us. Do you?
off Norman Bridge at Cloverdale Road
Apropos • Beckett Antiques • Brass Fountain • Cottage CollectionsEmily Dearman Antiques • Filet & Vine • Gallery One
Old Cloverdale Antiques • Stonehenge Frames & LightingSheffield Antiques • Tangs • Vintage Year Restaurant
Whatever you need this holiday season or throughout the new year, you’ll find it around Zelda.Over 220 Stores, Eateries, Services, Conveniences,
and Professional offices
UNIQUELY MIDTOWN MERCHANTS Holiday Gift Guide for avoiding the bypass
Page 9 • Your Family HomePage 8 • Your Family Home
Mulberry DistrictHoliday Open House
Friday, November 12 • Saturday, November 13 - 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.Sunday, November 14 – 1 p.m. to 4 p.m.
Barb’s on Mulberry, Barb’s Next Door, Feet in the Creek, LaShea, In the Mood, Lilies of the Field, Painted Pink, The Children’s Shop, The Hen Pen,
The Lily Pad, The Unicorn Shop, Treasure Chest Antiques, SAC’s Gallery
Shop MidtownFirst!
SAC's GalleryARTIST’S RECEPTIONNorma Jean Robinson, OilsSun, Nov. 7, 2 p.m.-4 p.m.
2001 Mulberry St.279-6876
Gallery OneBOOK SIGNING
Charles Rose, In the Midst of LifeThurs., Nov. 11, 5:30 p.m.-7 p.m.
425 Cloverdale Rd269-1114
Mulberry DistrictHOLIDAY OPEN HOUSE
Mulberry, Carter Hill, Club ViewFri., Nov. 12, Sat., Nov. 13, 9 a.m.-4 p.m.,
Sun., Nov. 14, 1 p.m.-4 p.m.,265-3200
SACS GalleryCHRISTMAS OPEN HOUSE
25th Anniversary ShowSat., Nov. 13, 10 a.m.-4 p.m., Sun., 1-4 p.m.
2001 Mulberry St265-9931
Old Alabama Town HOLIDAY CELEBRATION
DOLLS, TOY & TRAIN EXHIBITSFree Exhibit at Loeb Center
301 Columbus St.Nov. 26-Dec. 30
240-4500
SAC's GalleryARTIST'S RECEPTION
Linda Gilliland, DollsSun, Dec. 5, 2 p.m.-4 p.m.
2001 Mulberry St.279-6876
Gallery OneBOOK SIGNING
Montgomery Sketchbook-River RegionThurs., Dec. 9, 5:30 p.m.-7 p.m.
425 Cloverdale Rd.269-1114
Capital HeightsCANDELIGHT TOUR OF HOMES
Sat., Dec. 11, 3:30 p.m.-7 p.m. S. Capital Pkwy.
Advance Tickets on Sale, Area merchants 263-5179
Old Cloverdale Business DistrictOLD CLOVERDALE CHRISTMAS
Sat., Dec. 11, 12 p.m.-8 p.m.Woodley Rd. and E. Fairview Ave.
834-1500
Cottage Hill & Five Points DistrictsCANDLELIGHT TOUR
Starts at Jubilee Center432 S. Goldthwaite
Sun., Dec. 12, 2 p.m.-6 p.m.Advance Tickets on Sale
269-4698
F. Scott & Zelda Fitzgerald MusuemCHRISTMAS OPEN HOUSE
919 Felder Ave.Sun., Dec. 19, 1 p.m.-4 p.m.
264-4222
Upcoming Events in Midtown Neighborhoods
A past Highland Park resident recently wrote a letterreprinted in the neighborhood’s newsletter. She stillresides in Montgomery and has graciously consented tosharing her earlier childhood and wartime experiences,edited for length, with a new generation of residents.Consider the memories that went on in your Old House.
Our Mansion on Poplar StreetAt 5 years old in 1928, my family moved to 502 Poplar
Street (now 2506 on the “edge of town,” There were nopaved streets and no street of any kind south or east ofPoplar.
My father worked with the Singer Sewing MachineCompany. We had only one car, as did most families weknew. My mother stayed at home with my younger brotherand me. My father had lost an arm in his job with the rail-road while he awaited orders to report for military service.
We thought our three-bedroom house on Poplar Streetwas wonderful and my father often said that when he gothome in the afternoon, he felt like he was in a mansion. Itwas certainly far from a mansion compared to houses now(or even then). We were poor but so was everyone weknew, so we never even realized that we were poor untilmuch later.
Soon a few more houses were built around us and webecame friends with all the neighbors. An especially joyfultime for us was the rare occasion when we could stay outafter dark and play together under the street light on thecorner of Ryan and Poplar. We played “May I” and “RedLight” and few things have been as much fun since.
Each afternoon Mother would promise my brother andme that, if we would take a nap, she would order us a Dr.Pepper from the store (on Ryan Street). No drink has evertasted so good as those did. Imagine having two colddrinks delivered for a total of ten cents. Dr. Pepper was abig name then, as now. 10-2-4. Every child knew thatslogan.
I remember my first day of school at HighlandElementary. My mother walked with me that first day andeverything was wonderful.
Another happy occasion was the day I went to thebirthday party of Clyde Wayne Grant, who lived across thestreet.
I somehow won a little porcelain cat band and I haveseveral of the pieces yet. It is hard for children now tounderstand how important something like that was, but wehad so few things, other than necessities, that every toywas cherished. For Christmas I always received a fifty-centdoll (I’m not sure how we knew it cost fifty cents) and anorange. I don’t remember ever having a birthday party butI remember going to a few.
When I was in the third grade, Highland AvenueSchool had a Tom Thumb wedding. I was the bride andHenry Claude Allen was the groom. Mother made mywedding dress out of an old dress of hers. The “wedding”was at night and they charged a quarter to come. That wasbig money back then. The downstairs of the school waspacked and people were sitting on the stairs.
My family was members of Capitol Heights Church ofChrist, but we often went to Highland Avenue Church(now the Crump Community Center) for revivals and spe-cial services. We attended church almost all day on Sundayand when there were revivals sometimes every nightduring the week. We had many church friends as well asneighbors and relatives.
With the neighbors, too, there was much visiting.Everybody knew each other and the adults would sittogether and talk while the children played in the yard.There was no television, but we loved “Amos and Andy,”“Lum and Abner,” “Fibber McGee and Molly,” “Georgeand Gracie,” and later“Wilderness Road.”
There was also no centralheating or air conditioning. In thewinter there was heat only in thekitchen (a wood-burning stovethat also heated water) and,sometimes, a coal fire in theliving room. My father wouldcover the hot coals with ashes atnight and then, in the morning,stir the coals and add a little morecoal. I remember looking into mybedroom mirror and thinking thatthere was no way I could do any-thing with my hair until warmerweather because my bedroomwas so frigid that I could not bearto stay in it except in the bed. Ishall never forget how loved I feltwhen my mother heated a blanketin front of the fire on the coldest nights and then tucked mein with the warmth of the blanket and her love. In thesummer time, we slept with all the windows open and anoscillating fan blowing between bedrooms but it was still sohorribly hot that we lay there awake most of the night.
On Sunday afternoon Daddy usually took us for a ride.That was a treat because we rarely went for a pleasure tripof any kind. Later, he took us to Union Station and parkedso that we could sit and watch the trains come in and leave.Sometimes he would allow us to get out of the car andstand back of the iron fence so that we could see better. Ifwe had enough time, then, before time for church serviceto start, he would park on Dexter Avenue and we would“window shop.”
“In the spring and summer the “vegetable man” (some-times a woman) would bring his produce wagon by thehouse early in the morning. Mother would sit on the porchand shell peas or beans and cook them for dinner.
Dinner was always in the middle of the day and supperwas late afternoon or evening. What was left at dinner wasleft on the table with a cloth over it to keep away the fliesuntil suppertime. and eaten without reheating.
I do not remember anyone getting sick. We had meatonly on Sundays unless the preachers were coming to eat.In the summer Mother “put up” vegetables and jellieswhich carried us through the winters. We almost never hadcanned or snack food, although I always longed for it. Oneof my cousins had Ritz crackers and grape juice forSunday supper and I thought they were rich.
Milk was delivered to front porches and when it wasfreezing, we thought it was a real treat to have frozen milkwith a little sugar in it.
We had chickens in our backyard, as did many families,and for a time we had a cow. The chickens were usuallyreserved for when the preachers came to eat but, once in awhile, we just had relatives over for chicken.
I never had a “ready-made” dress until I was in Lanier.Mother was a wonderful seamstress and made beautifulclothes for me but oh, how I wished for a bought dress.By this time several other families had moved into thestreets near us. Back of us was still only trees and thickets
and little trails that we children made as we explored the“woods.” Children truly got enough exercise back then.
Sometime within that period of my attending elemen-tary school, Poplar Street was paved. Each homeowner hadto contribute his part of the cost, which was a very hardthing to do.
When I finished the fourth grade, the Singer Companytransferred my father to Selma, a real challenge. We rentedour house,and stayed for two years. We rented a house nextto Highland Avenue Elementary School and later furtherdown Highland Avenue until the lease had expired.
By the time we returned to Montgomery, I was in the sev-enth grade at Capitol Heights Junior High School. Soon after-wards, my father lost his job because no one could afford tobuy sewing machines or anything else. For several weeks, hecould find no employment. I shall never forget how veryhappy we all were when he went to work with the
Montgomery Advertiser as a routeforeman, which was a fancy wayto say that he was in charge ofhaving the newspaper thrown onthe porches of the subscribers inCapitol Heights. Life was reallyhard financially for several years.We could not make our mortgagepayments, but very few peoplecould so the banks certainly didn’twant to foreclose and have allthose houses on their hands thatnobody could afford to buy. Whenwe got holes in the soles of ourshoes, my parents went to Kressand bought rubber soles andcemented them on so that wecould wear them another year.Even though we were so poor, lifeat Capitol Heights Junior Highwas so much fun. On weekends
we had proms and progressive dinners.Later I attended Lanier, the only senior high in
Montgomery. Two weeks after I finished high school I mar-ried and my husband and I moved to Birmingham. InDecember 1941 we came home to Poplar Street to visit myparents. On Sunday, December 7, my cousin from next doorcame over and told us “They’ve bombed Pearl Harbor.” Wereally had no idea where Pearl Harbor was but we turned onthe radio and listened to Franklin Roosevelt tell us thatAmerica was at war and the only thing we have to fear is“fear itself.” Very soon my husband decided that he should“sign up,” so he enlisted in the Naval Seabees and our infantson and I came home to Poplar Street to stay with Motherand Daddy for the next three years or so until the war wasover. Unless you have lived through such a war, there is noway to understand how tough it was, not only on those whowere fighting but those families left behind. I didn’t hearfrom Herman for months at a time and then I would receiveten or twelve letters at once.
On VE Day everybody went to churches and prayed allday. Everywhere were billboards of Uncle Sam with hisfinger to his lips saying, “Sh, the enemy is listening.”Several of the boys I went to school with were killed in thewar and others were permanently disabled. I shall neverforget the dancing in the streets when the war was finallyover with everyone kissing everyone else. The world, how-ever, was changed forever and that age of trust and inno-cence was over.
When Herman came home, we remained inMontgomery. That wonderful house on Poplar Streetbecame “home” to my children and their children and mybrother’s children and grandchildren as well.
Both my parents continued to live at 2506 Poplar Streetuntil my father died in 1984 and my mother lived thereuntil her death at age 90 in 1991. It took me several yearsto go through all the memorabilia of those 63 years, but thesweet memories of our “mansion” of love, faith and joywill be with us all the days of our lives and live on formany generations to come.
– Merle Furlong Haynes
A Look Back …Former Resident Remembers Six Decades in Highland Park
Page 7 • Your Family HomePage 10 • Your Family Home
OPEN HOUSES & TOURS
Capital HeightsTREE LIGHTING
Armstrong Park,Madison Ave.
Sat., Dec. 4, 7 p.m.263-5179
Old CloverdaleTREE LIGHTING
Cloverdale ParkSun., Dec. 7, 4 p.m.-5 p.m.
262-2888
Cottage HillsAFTER TOUR PARTY
Jean’s Florist506 Sayre St.
Sun., Dec. 12 6:00 p.m.Tickets at any
Jim Massey Cleaners Branch269-4698
HillwoodNIGHTS OF WHITE LIGHTS
Free EventLocated on all streets, N. of Vaughn
Dec. 12–26, Dusk until271-0606
Highland ParkNEIGHBORHOOD DINNER
Sat., Dec. 18, 7 p.m.Crump Community Center
Bring Covered Dish263-3592
Cloverdale-IdlewildHOLIDAY CAROLS
& BONFIREThurs., December 23, 6:30 p.m.
Dupont Park at Cloverdale BottomsBring Cookies
834-6030
Huntingdon CollegePOEMS OF THE SOUTHRhoda Ellison Writers‚ Festival
Cloverdale Theatre Thur., Nov. 11, 7 p.m
East Fairview Ave.833-4374
Alabama Dance TheaterMISTLE TOE
TU’s Davis Theatre251 Montgomery St
Nov. 12,13, 14, 7:30 p.m. & 2:30 p.m.Box Office 241-2800
Montgomery SymphonyARTIST SEASON PERFORMANCE
featuring Percussionist Kelsy TamayoTU’s Davis Theater 251 Montgomery St
Mon., Nov. 22, 7:30 p.m.Box Office 240-4004
SERVICE OF LESSONS & CAROLS
Lignon Chapel, Free EventThur., Dec. 2, 7:30 p.m.
833-4515
Montgomery BalletTHE NUTCRACKER
TU’s Davis Theatre251 Montgomery St
Thur., Dec. 2-Sun., Dec. 5,2:00 p.m. & 7:30 p.m.Box Office 409-0522
Huntington CollegeTREE LIGHTINGEntrance, Flowers Hall
E. Fairview Ave.Thurs., Dec. 2, 7 p.m.
Montgomery Chorale & Youth ChoraleSOUNDS OF THE HOLIDAYS
Judical Building, 300 Dexter Ave.Fri., Dec. 3, 7:30 p.m. & Sun., Dec. 5, 2:30 p.m.Box Office 265-3737
Huntingdon CollegeCHRISTMAS OPERA
Amahl and the Night Visitors,Clovedale Theater
Sat.-Sun, Dec. 4 p.m.-5 p.m.,2:30 p.m. & Dec. 5, 7:30 p.m.
Tickets 833-4457
City of MontgomeryHOLIDAY PARADE
Dexter Ave.Sat., Dec. 4, 5:30 p.m.
241-7438
US Air Force Band, Airmen of NoteGLENN MILLER HOLIDAY
CONCERTTU's Davis Theater
251 Montgomery StreetMon. & Tues, Dec. 6 & 7, 7 p.m.
Free, but ticket requiredAvailable at any Region’s
Bank branchCanned food donations
accepted at door
First Baptist Church LIVING CHRISTMAS TREES
Thurs-Sun., Dec. 10, 11, 12 4:30 p.m., 7 p.m. 305 S. Perry St.
ADVANCE TICKET REQUIRED834-6310, 241-5156
Friends of the Public LibraryUSED BOOK SALE:
CHILDREN, NOVELS,TECHNICAL, REFERENCE
Fri. & Sat., Dec. 10-119 a.m. -5 p.m.245 High St.
265-1616
Montgomery SymphonyHOLIDAY POPSTU’s Davis Theater 251 Montgomery St.
Sun. Dec. 12, 2:30 p.m.; Mon. Dec. 13, 7:30 p.m.
Box Office 240-4004
NEIGHBORHOOD EVENTS
UPCOMING DOWNTOWN PUBLICPERFORMANCES
Sandra,
Page 14 • Your Family Home Page 3 • Your Family Home
MOVERS
Resource Guide Thank you to the following Midtown Living Partners for their participation & investment in this publication. When you patronize these companies,please tell them you saw their ad in Sandra Nickel’s Midtown Living.
MORTGAGE
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8301 Crossland Loop
213-1347
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Take advantageof the historic
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270-9100
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FREE ESTIMATESEXPERT PACKINGLOCAL/WORLDWIDE
INTERSTATE AGENTFOR AMERICAN
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ROY E.MCBRYAR
ATTORNEY AT LAW
4241 Lomac StreetMontgomery, AL 36106
272-1065FAX 272-5363
FOR ALL YOUR REALESTATE NEEDS
No representation is made that thequality of the legal services to be
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834-7969
Real Estate InspectionsPlumbing, Heating/AC,
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Call: Lee Hester850.4939E-mail:
REAL PROPERTYCONSULTING, LLC.
Where Southern HospitalityMeets Modern Technology
Putting 27 Years of LocalExperience to Work
in Montgomery.
215-4526
John Herzog, CMB
What a blessing it is to live in a city whoseresidents care for one another. Hurricane Ivanhit us personally when a huge tree fell on our S.Lawrence Street house.
Within minutes neighbors were at our doorand Police came to check on us. Over the nextfew hours, the City responded with a variety ofservice persons who removed the trees off ourroof and even out of the yard. Then Utilitycompany personel worked tirelessly to getthings back in working order in the entireneighborhood.
We were without power for a few days, butthankful we came to know some neighbors thatwe previously hadn’t met, a rarity in theGarden District. This story could be repeated inmany Midtown neighborhoods by manyMidtown residents. We have fewer trees tow-ering in the sky, but we have a few more side-walk friends and tall stories to share about a
horrific storm that came our way in midSeptember 2004.
Thanks to all the individuals who helpedone another in this time of need. Thanks to thejournalists, photographers, and reporters whokept us informed of the latest news and fore-casts. Thanks to the utility providers from inand out-of-state who came to our city’s rescue.Thanks to the local folks who will be cleaningup and repairing Ivan’s mess for months.
In the face of crisis, neighbors bandtogether, whether it is in lower Manhattan orMidtown Montgomery. A common need bringsout the best in all of us. Now, perhaps we canwork together on other critical issues that faceour city. We can accomplish a lot in a short timewhen we look after one another and work coop-eratively. God bless you all.
-Sandra Nickel
Storm Brings Out the Best in Midtown
THANKS FOR SHOPPING WITH THESE MERCHANTS.TELL THEM YOU APPRECIATE THEM –
THEY’RE INSIDE THE BYPASS.Uniquely MIDTOWN MERCHANTS
Save time. There�s something worth giving or getting this holiday season from every shop in Zelda Place.
2940 SalonB Barganier Interior AccentsBridals by PenoliaClay, Metal & StoneCAS Gallery & FramesFirst Command FinancialFitness Solutions
Jos. A. Bank ClothiersKlein & SonMoe�s Southwest GrillNancy Paterson�s BistroTalbotsTalbots PetitesTang�s Alterations
The Tobacco LeafUptown ExclusiveWolf Camera Center
Zelda Place
1979 – 2004
25YEARS OF
EXCELLENCE
SAC’S GALLERYMontgomery, AL
SOCIETY OF ARTS & CRAFTS2001 Mulberry Street
Montgomery, AL 36106
Gallery Hours: Tues. – Fri. 10:00 – 4:30 & Sat. 10 – 3
SAC’s 25th Christmas Art & Craft ShowAlcazar Shriners Temple, East Blvd. • Saturday, Nov. 13 and Sunday, Nov. 14
120 Arts & Crafts Booths from artists and crafts persons throughout the Southeast. No Admission Fee • Call (334) 265-9931 for more information or visit,
www.sacsgallery.com/chrshowinfo.html
CAS Gallery & FramesIn Zelda Place
Museum Quality Custom FramingArchival Material
Full Preservation Practices
2960-F Zelda Road • 334.271.3772
CORPORATEART SOURCE
Providing corporate consulting to southern businesses for more than 20 years.
CAS Gallery Fine ArtFine Art AppraisalsFine Art Brokerage
Private Acquisitions/Consulting/Sales
www.casgallery.com
OPEN FOR HOLIDAY SHOPPING
1041 East Fairview Avenue(Next door to Capri Theatre)
334.262.8256
The new location of the beautiful
StonehengeGallery.
SEXTONTIRE & SERVICE CENTER
$5 OFF ANY SERVICEExpires 12/31/04
24-Hour Road Services7 A.M. – 6 P.M.
2718 Zelda Road272-2555
NATIONAL PROPERTYINSPECTIONS
North American's PremierInspection Service
Christopher (Chip) JonesProfessional inspector/owner
Licensed & Insured
Home Seller’s Pre-listing InspectionNew Home Warranty Inspections
Home Buyer's Inspections
467-8616 • fax: [email protected]
www.npiweb.com/cjones
Community involvement – a collectivestrength that makes dreams cometrue. Great thing happen when wework together toward a common goal.At Regions, our dream is to strengthenour community through a spirit ofteamwork. And we are doing our bestto make that dream come true.
The Strength To Help You Do More
MEMBER FDIC1-800-REGIONS
WWW.REGIONS.COM
©2004 Regions Bank P41142-LUC-R2571
Mortgage, Inc.
SEXTON TIRE & SERVICE CENTER
What some folks saw as a negativeresulted in a big opportunity for sev-eral new Montgomery homeownerswho have taken advantage of great realestate values near Montgomery Mall.
One of the first to claim the neigh-borhood as his new home was JackThomas, Jr., the new OperationsDirector appointed by Ohio-basedGlimcher Properties at MontgomeryMall.
Jack, who lived in the region ear-lier, returned to Montgomery from aNY-based realty trust, where he wasresponsible for 12 shopping centers insouth Georgia and north Florida.
“It’s definitely convenient to mywork,” said Jack. “I got a lot of housefor my money,” he said of the 3,200-sq.-ft., 2-story Colonial home he pur-chased only three blocks from theMall.“We’re excited about our forthcomingplans to redevelop the mall and see itreturn to its rightful place servingMidtown, the city and region. I’mexcited to be part of the neighbor-
hood,” he said.Studies show the mall is in the
heart of one of largest employmentand retail sales centers in the RiverRegion.
Another family who’ve recentlypurchased in McGehee Place are Peterand Charlotte Brambir. Peter startedthe Gay Meadows HomeownersAssociation.
They just sold their big house andbig yard with a pool on ColonialDrive, to retire to a smaller gardenhome.
They attended their first home-owners association meeting in Octoberand were surprised to learn how manygreat people they knew who live inMcGehee Place.
The Brambirs said they are close totheir old neighborhood, so they antici-pate staying in contact with friendsand using the same Midtown storespreviously patronized.
Both of the Brambirs wereRealtors after he retired from theUSAF. She retired from the Hat-Team
after eight years in 2003.Sandra Nickel, Realtors participated
in the sale and purchase of both houses.Another financial expert who is
excited to see the renewed interest inthe neighborhood is Troy Hughes, vicepresident and branch manager ofRegions Bank at the entrance toMcGehee Place.
Many of his customers live innearby neighborhoods along McGeheeRoad.
“We think the mall is surroundedby some of the premier residentialareas in Midtown and offer their resi-dents lots of value, choice, safety andconvenience,” he said.
Yes, we list and sell high-end homes in Midtown and the region.
Call the Hat Team to put them to work for you!
• The Kovels
• Jack Nicklaus
• Wolfgang Puck
• Working Smart
• Click and Clack
• Sports Trivia
• Crossword
• Chicken Soup
(334) 834-1500
CAPITOL HEIGHTS CLOVERDALE IDLEWILDNARROW LANEGREEN ACRES
$79,900 $126,900 $149,900 $169,900
GARDEN DISTRICT CLOVERDALECAPITOL HEIGHTSNORMANDALE ESTATES
$112,500 $81,900 $69,900 $179,900
VAUGHN MEADOWS DAVE BRADLEYBRENTWOODEDGEWOOD
$253,000 $299,900 $128,900 $64,900All payment estimates based on a 5% down payment and a 6%, 30-year conventional mortgage.
Talk to one of the Hat Team Specialists. We can show any home in Montgomery. Call 834-1500.
SandraNickelBroker
Billy YoungProductionManager
RustyWilkinsonSr. ListingSpecialist
Denton HawkInvestor Buyer
Specialist
LaurenLayfield
BuyerSpecialist
Pam MasseyBuyer
Specialist
Frank PowellBuyer
Specialist
KathyHenderson
Seller ServicesManager
Steve LukerClosing
Manager
MelissaRobertsClosing
Coordinator
Jim NickelTechnicalManager
$1,108 Month
$460 Month
$1,708 Month
$722 Month
$853 Month
$455 Month
$961 Month
$398 Month
$734 Month
$369 Month
$640 Month
$1,434 Month
FFFFeeeeaaaattttuuuurrrreeeedddd IIIInnnnssss iiiiddddeeee
Shop Midtown First CampaignBenefits Residents and Merchants
McGehee Place is Place of Choice for New Residents
www.hat-lady.com
TOP 300 IN THE U.S.REALTOR® Magazine
PRES
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Montgomery’s Midtown Neighborhoods
McGehee Place garden home forsale listed by Catherine Bermanat $245,000.
It’s time for holiday shopping. After lauching our well-received and greatly appreciated “Shop Midtown First”campaign last year, Midtown merchants asked for more, andwe’re repeating the message. SHOP MIDTOWN FIRST!
Before you drive outside the bypass, check the offeringsand convenience of the many stores and unique shopsinside the bypass.• Most are locally owned by people who are your neighbors.• Most carry unique merchandise you’ll not find at the bigbox stores which feature products in bulk. • Most will give you personal service with a smile and offerspecial services like wrapping. Some even offer delivery.
UNIQUE STORESShopping in Midtown means there are a dozen small
community shopping centers from which to choose:• Cloverdale Area: the Old Cloverdale Business Districtalong E. Fairview Ave. and Woodley Rd., and CloverdaleVillage on Cloverdale Rd. and Graham St.• Mulberry Business District: Country Club Center andshops along Mulberry St. and Carter Hill Rd.• McGehee Road area merchants: Gay Meadows Shopping,Olde Town Shopping Village, Montgomery Mall, andColonial Shoppes at McGehee Place and other fine storesalong McGehee Road.• Zelda Business District: Zelda Place, Hillwood Center,
Hillwood Festival and Westminster Shopping.• Others: There are several unique and convenient shopsscattered downtown, on Madison Ave., Mt. Meigs Rd,Highland Ave. Vaughn Rd., and Perry Hill Rd.
All told, there are more than 200 stores (see our com-plete list inside) where you can find great gifts, fill holidayneeds from choosing cards to selecting wrapping papersand shipping, gifts, and you will find places for treats andfood for those, hurried busy days until the end of the year.
SAVINGS NOT WORTH HASSLEThe few cents you may save elsewhere will actually
cost you more in time, gas and wear on your car – not tomention personal frustration.
With the time you’ll save shopping Midtown and notfighting the bypass traffic and big parking lot jams, join usfor the many neighborhood events, open houses and publicperformances celebrating the season (full calendar inside).Join us, too on Saturday, December 11, for a free showingsof Shirley Temple movies at the Capri Theater. It is ourChristmas gift to you and your family.
So this year, join with your neighbors and let’s ShopMidtown First!
-Sandra Nickel