JANUARY 2026
Lifetime
Work OF
Quilting guild honors founder PAGE 18
IN PHOTOS
Christmas in Gardendale PAGE 24
Gllamorous! Local mother-daughter boutique named Alabama Small Business of the Year PAGE 10
659.977.4227 Best Option Restoration of Jefferson County EMAIL US TO LEARN MORE Info@BORofjeffco.com www.BORofjeffco.com
Imagine your home, totally organized!
Custom Closets Garage Cabinets Wall Beds Wall Organizers Pantries
Laundries Wall Units Hobby Rooms Garage Flooring Media Centers and more...
40%
Plus
Free Installation PLUS TAKE AN EXTRA
15% 15
ClosetsbyDesig ClosetsbyDesign SPECIAL FINANCING ®
FOR 18 MONTHS!
Call for a free in home design consultation
205-927-5172
www.closetsbydesign.com Locally Owned and Operated! Licensed and Insured.
GM
Closets Closets byDesign byDesign
®
®
/ Table of Contents /
10/
30
16/
34/
22/
37/
Cover: Gllam Boutique named Alabama Small Business of the Year
Feature: Park and Recreation cheer program takes spotlight
Business News: What’s happening in local businesses
Employee Profile: Firefighter Brett Stewart
Feature: Just Keep Smiling hosts Live with the Characters fundraiser
24/
In Pictures: Christmas in Gardendale
[ 4 ] January 2026 Gardendale Magazine
Shortcut Recipe: Double Stuffed Cinnamon Rolls
38/ 40/ 44/ 46/
School News News from our Neighbors Happenings Calendar
Where You Live. Where You Work.
Count on APS for your
Peace of Mind.
Foundation Repair & Waterproofing
Pest Control & Lawn Care
Over 45 Years of Experience
Call today for your 205-951-9717 free quote. alabamaprofessional.com
January 2026 Gardendale Magazine [ 5 ]
/ About Us / On The Cover About the Cover
Who We Are Gardendale Magazine is published monthly by JBMC Media, a Birmingham-based publishing company. The magazine is available at more than 100 locations throughout Gardendale, free of charge, and is supported by the advertisers within the pages of this magazine. Subscriptions by mail area also available for $40 per year. Visit jbmcmedia.com/magazine-subscriptions to start your subscription. Gardendale Magazine is 100% local; the stories and photos are all about the city of Gardendale, its residents, its businesses, its schools, and its cultural institutions. It’s our promise to you that we will always keep it this way, so that the content and stories are relevant to everyone who calls Gardendale home.
Staff Matthew Allen, Publisher (205) 883-1877 | matthew@jbmcmedia.com Rachel Davis Karr, Content Director (205) 613-7850 | rachel@jbmcmedia.com
PHOTO BY HEATHER WARDEN, WARDEN PHOTOGRAPHY
Samantha and Leila Allen, of Gllam Boutique, celebrated being named Alabama Small Business of the Year in the 1-10 employee category.
Michelle Salem Haynes, Marketing Consultant (205) 381-1311 | michelle@jbmcmedia.com Anthony Bratina, Cover Designer Shweta Bratina, Graphic Designer Emily VanderMey Listo, Operations & Project Manager, Graphic Designer emily@emilylisto.com
Contact Us/Follow Us (205) 883-1877 @GardendaleMagazine
@GardendaleMag
P.O. Box 26432, Birmingham, AL 35260
PROUD MEMBER
• Homeowners 65+ are eligible for exemptions on property taxes! • ASK about special senior tax exemptions! • ASK about exemptions for permanently and totally disabled! • Homestead property owners are eligible for disability-based homestead exemptions!
PUBLISHED BY
[ 6 ] January 2026 Gardendale Magazine
HOUSEHOLD DROP-OFF
2026 Events
(Inclement weather backup, Feb 7)
May 9
9-11:30 AM
June 13
9-11:30 AM
September 12
9-11:30 AM
October 17
8-11:30 AM
January 31
9-11:30 AM
March 14
Electronics/TVs /Paper Shredding Jefferson County Village Water Reclamation Facility 1440 Pleasant Hill Rd, Birmingham, 35224
9-11:30 AM
Electronics/TVs /Paper Shredding Jefferson County Valley Water Reclamation Facility 3923 Clear Water Dr, Bessemer, 35023
April 25
8-11:30 AM
Electronics/TVs /Paper Shredding Birmingham Zoo 2630 Cahaba Rd, Birmingham, 35223
Household Hazardous Waste/ Electronics/TVs/Paper Shredding Site 1: City of Bessemer Laydown Yard 1205 15th Ave N, Bessemer, 35020 Site 2: First Baptist Church of GardendaleSouth Location 940 Main St, Gardendale 35071 Site 3: Classic Car Motoring 3900 Grants Mill Rd, Irondale 35210
Electronics/TVs /Paper Shredding Jefferson County Center Point Satellite Courthouse 2651 Center Point Pkwy, Birmingham, 35215
Electronics/TVs /Paper Shredding Birmingham City Hall / Linn Park 710 20th St N, Birmingham, 35203
Household Hazardous Waste/ Electronics/TVs/Paper Shredding Site 1: Camp Bessemer 3295 King St, Bessemer, 35023
Site 2: Camp Ketona 121 County Shop Rd, Birmingham, 35217
For more information call 205-325-8741 or scan QR code Your digital data is secure and will be destroyed during recycling at no additional cost.
Have a story idea you’d like to see in an upcoming issue?
We want to share what you are excited to read about. Email rachel@jbmcmedia.com to share your story ideas.
CRACKED WINDSHIELDS CAN’T WAIT – NEITHER DO WE!
Locally Owned & Operated Mobile Service available, we’ll come to you
CALL OR TEXT FOR YOUR QUOTE 205-542-7866 January 2026 Gardendale Magazine [ 7 ]
/ Editor’s Note / Apparently this is the 50th issue of the magazine. Wow! I can’t believe that it has been that many. I remain amazed that the magazine has been so welcomed and still generates so much buzz every issue. We have people contact us every month to compliment something or suggest another story, and we LOVE that you are so excited about the product. We have always wanted this to be YOUR magazine and every month you make sure that it is. Thank you for trusting us with so many of your stories and for the ongoing support and help. Every issue there is something that reminds me why this community is so special. In this issue, there are several. Since the first issue, Samantha and Leila Allen have been among our biggest cheerleaders. And we aren’t the only ones. These ladies are at every community event and cheer louder than anyone for the small businesses that set the community apart. The fact that they were recognized as the top business in the state in their size category is amazing and well-deserved. Also, this issue heavily features the city’s Christmas celebrations, which went on despite ongoing inclement weather. Photographer Gary Schultz said he was amazed by the crowds that braved the weather, but his wife laughed at his and explained, “This is Gardendale!” I don’t think I can put it any better than she did. This is Gardendale and it’s just different than other places, in the best of ways. the citizens who live here. Gardendale is a special place and, sometimes, I think we lose sight of that. Rachel Davis Karr, Content Director
[ 8 ] January 2026 Gardendale Magazine
Be Radiant. Charles Hunt II, MD • Sidney Goscinski, PA-C
S P E C I A L I Z I N G I N V E I N T R E AT M E N T S Varicose Veins & Spider Veins M E D S PA T R E AT M E N T S • • • •
Microneedling Laser Treatments Facials Injectables
W E L L N E S S T R E AT M E N T S • • •
Hormone Therapy Weight Loss Intimacy Treatments
Schedule Your Restorative Treatment (205) 823-0151 | alabamavein.com 4721 Chace Circle, Hoover
Moore Style Moore Service Moore Home
Carla Heron, Owner
Licensed & NCEA Certified Esthetician, Permanent Makeup & Tattoo Artist • Microdermabrasion
• Procell, Vi Peel
• Dermaplane
• Cryo therapy for weight loss or pain management
• Oncology, American, & Korean Facials
Call Jessica Moore 205-283-4232
• Permanent Makeup
• Microblading
• Weight Loss Inc. Injections
• Lash Extensions
• IV Drips
• Plasma Lyft
• 4D Baby Sonars
• Full Body Waxing
• Sneak Peek Early Gender Reveal
Call for Your Free Consultation (205) 567-8376 Skinology 2722 Mt. Olive Rd. | Gardendale | skinology4you.com January 2026 Gardendale Magazine [ 9 ]
/ Cover /
Gardendale boutique named top Alabama Small Business STORY BY RACHEL DAVIS KARR There are many places to get clothes and accessories in Gardendale, but people who enter the doors of Gllam Boutique find so much more. The mother-daughter team of Samantha and Leila Allen have created a community that extends far beyond the racks in the store. The ladies were honored at the 2025 State Small Business Awards by being named the top small business in the 1-10 employees category. The business was originally nominated for the award by Gardendale Junior Ambassador Zion Holmes, who talked about the business’ merchandise, but also what makes them stand out in the community. “Gllam Boutique leads in community involvement by actively supporting local events and uplifting other small businesses in Gardendale,” Holmes // Continued on Page 12 //
PHOTO BY HEATHER WARDEN. WARDEN PHOTOGRAPHY
[ 10 ] January 2026 Gardendale Magazine
PHOTO COURTESY OF GLLAM BOUTIQUE AND THE ALABAMA CHAMBERS
WHERE YOUR FECAL MATTERS Ask about our Military, First Responder and Senior Citizen discount
Call us today to schedule! We offer Mortgage Inspections, Septic Repairs & Installs
205-608-8181
reliablesepticllc@gmail.com Scan to learn more
Drain Cleaning Specialist Clogged and Damaged Toilet Repair Clogged Pipeline Repair Water Line Install and Repair Pump Repair
Licensed and Insured
Our mission is to help families create personalized funerals and memorials. Attention to detail like no other. GUARANTEED. Providing funeral and cremation services to north Jefferson County, Alabama, since 1976.
GIVE US A CALL TODAY!
(205) 789-6269
RIDOUT’S GARDENDALE CHAPEL & OAKWOOD MEMORIAL GARDENS 2029 Decatur Highway, Gardendale | www.ridoutsgardendalechapel.com
205-631-6252 January 2026 Gardendale Magazine [ 11 ]
/ Cover /
PHOTOS COURTESY OF GLLAM BOUTIQUE AND THE ALABAMA CHAMBERS
// Continued from Page 10// said in the nomination. “They use their platform to highlight causes and celebrations within the community, creating a space that feels connected and supportive. Their dedication to empowering customers and giving back makes them a valuable part of the city’s local culture.” Samantha and Leila were overwhelmed when they were named the winner at the state competition out of 10 finalists. But, as much as they were honored by the award, they still were most touched by the things their community had to say about them. // Continued on Page 14 //
[ 12 ] January 2026 Gardendale Magazine
Ace of the South
EST. 2020
Wood’s Trading Co.
EST. 2020
MONTH OF JAUNARY DEALS AND EVENTS january SAVINGS
january HIGHLIGHTS
ACE air filters buy three get one free Sales sales sales
ACE REWARDS MEMBERS earn $10 coupon When you download and link your ace rewards account with our app
coming soon new brands
Kaytee Buy one get one on select birdseed
Food trucks
Save on select cleaning products from top brands
join our loyalty program to earn free savings
(205)386-3596 WWW.ACEOFTHESOUTH.COM 255 CITY ST, GARDENDALE, AL 35071
S O C I A L S
*PRICE MATCHING NOT VALID ON USED PRODUCTS OR 3RD PARTY SITES
(205)756-7976 WWW.WOODSTRADINGCO.COM
250 CITY ST, GARDENDALE, AL 35071
S O C I A L S
Preventative and Cosmetic Dentistry
Robert T. Underwood, DMD
205.631.8066
New Patients Welcome Financing Available 1038 Mount Olive Rd Gardendale, AL 35071 fieldst owndental ca re .com
We Are Hiring!
Drivers needed for small dump truck company. 40 hours a week with some Saturday work. You must have: -Reliable Transportation -Class B CDL -Medical Card -Good Driving Record Please call (205) 849-0398 for an appointment. January 2026 Gardendale Magazine [ 13 ]
/ Cover /
PHOTO BY HEATHER WARDEN. WARDEN PHOTOGRAPHY
// Continued from Page 12 // “Just reading that nomination was so sweet,” Samantha recalled. “It was nice to hear that people think that way about us.”
In recent years, Gllam has expanded offerings with
In announcing the win, Alabama Chambers said, “Gllam Boutique, Inc, owned by mother-daughter duo Leila and Sam Allen, embodies the spirit of resilience, family, and community that defines small business excellence. Through their dedication, creativity, and deep commitment to Gardendale, they have built more than a boutique — they’ve created a gathering place that uplifts people and strengthens local connections. Their leadership, generosity, and vision make Gllam Boutique a shining example of what it means to serve both business and community with heart.”
their offerings to encompass classic pieces, trendier
[ 14 ] January 2026 Gardendale Magazine
Merged Metal, a permanent jewelry service located inside the boutique and they are constantly updating styles and items to flatter all body types. But the duo knows they can’t be the perfect fit for everyone and take joy in the community they have with the other boutiques. “If we don’t have something, or someone is looking for a specific style that we don’t have, we’ll send them to one of the other boutiques to make sure they find what they want,” Leila said. “And they do the same for us.”
January 2026 Gardendale Magazine [ 15 ]
/ Business News / North Jefferson Academy of Dance honored at Small Business Awards The North Jefferson Academy of Dance was named a finalist in the Alabama Chambers Small Business Awards. The North Jefferson Chamber of Commerce nominated the business and honored them for “their passion for the arts, commitment to excellence, and impact on the local community are truly inspiring.”
Magnolia Real Estate noted at Small Business Awards Magnolia Real Estate Group was recognized as a finalist in the Alabama Chambers Small Business Awards. The North Jefferson Chamber of Commerce nominated the business and said, “This honor reflects their outstanding dedication to serving our community with trust, heart, and professionalism in every real estate journey.”
7 Brews Opens in Fultondale 7 Brew Coffee recently opened on Walker Chapel Road in Fultondale. [ 16 ] January 2026 Gardendale Magazine
Gardendale’s Choice for Family Dentistry Dr. Elizabeth Lucas
Dr. Frankie Jones
SCHEDULE YOUR APPOINTMENT TODAY!
40
% OFF
Chairside Whitening
(205) 285-8298
–OR–
FREE
Clear Aligner Consultation –OR–
FREE
Implant Consultation **Restrctions apply. Call for details.
NEW YEAR. NEW SMILE. m
–Two Co ily m nies pa
One Fa
1603 Decatur Hwy, Gardendale | lumadentistry.com
Solid. Skilled. Local. Renovations & Repairs Custom Improvements & more We’re here to bring your vision to life.
Lee Cusimano Owner (205) 936-3905
ironwoodrenovations205@gmail.com
Integrity. Service. Dedication.
On
Whether you’re buying, selling, or just have questions about the market, we’d love to connect and help in any way we can!
e Vision
Your Local North Jefferson Brand ASK US ABOUT OUR IRONWOOD ADVANTAGE PROGRAM.
Get your house ready to list with no money down.
Ann Marie Cusimano Broker/Owner (205) 478-3006
annmariecusimano@gmail.com
January 2026 Gardendale Magazine [ 17 ]
/ Feature /
45 Years of
QUILTING
[ 18 ] January 2026 Gardendale Magazine
North Jefferson Quilters Guild still going strong STORY AND PHOTOS BY RACHEL DAVIS KARR Four and a half decades ago, Bettye Kimbrell recognized a need to support the Mt. Olive Community Center, so she organized a quilt show and quilting guild to fundraise for the community center. Kimbrell, a master quilter, was renowned for her intricate and unique patterns and tiny, metered stitches. She won the Alabama Folk Heritage Award as well as being one of eleven artists to receive the National Heritage Fellowship from the National
Endowment for the Arts. Her quilts have been displayed at art museums both in the US and in other countries and she won awards at state and national levels. Today, the North Jefferson Quilters Guild still exists as a teaching guild and still hosts annual quilt shows as a fundraiser for the Mt. Olive Community Center where they meet. This year, to celebrate their 45th year, they had a quilt show at East Gardendale Baptist Church, focused on honoring the founder and the part she played in creating a guild that is still
January 2026 Gardendale Magazine [ 19 ]
/ Feature /
thriving after all these years. Kimbrell’s children and grandchildren attended the show with many of her old quilts, including her stained glass quilt, some of her leaf print quilts and . Her grandson even demonstrated the leaf pounding method she used to create botanical prints on many of her quilts, passing on the skills his grandmother taught him as a child. Kimbrell’s story was the feature of many videos featured on PBS and other sites and the book about her life, Out of Whole Cloth, is still available from many booksellers. She died in 2016, but her legacy remains strong in the works she left behind.
[ 20 ] January 2026 Gardendale Magazine
One very special part of the show was a ceremony called Quilts of Valor. The ladies of the guild created and quilted special patriotic quilts and presented them to area veterans as a way of honoring their service. This emotional ceremony allowed the women who lovingly designed, cut and stitched the quilts to recognize the veterans they were honoring. In addition to the quilts displayed, the ceremonies and the display honoring their founder, there was also a sweets shop, raffle, items for sale and many vendor and craft booths outside. For more information on the North Jefferson Quilters Guild, you can reach out to them on Facebook or visit the Mt. Olive Community Center during one of their regular meetings every Tuesday morning at 10 a.m.
50 YEARS
+ COUNTING
Excellence in Christ-Centered Education Gardendale’s Longest Operating K3-12 Christian School Schedule your tour today! 205-631-9318 APPROVED ESP
EDUCATION SERVICE PROVIDER
tabernaclechristian.org
January 2026 Gardendale Magazine [ 21 ]
/ Feature /
Just Keep Smiling enters 11th year of Live with Characters
[ 22 ] January 2026 Gardendale Magazine
STORY BY RACHEL DAVIS KARR PHOTOS COURTESY OF JUST KEEP SMILING
Live with the Characters, a fundraiser show for Just Keep Smiling, enters its 11th year with new surprises. The event allows children to watch the Royal Princesses, friends from kids’ television, superheroes, etc., perform and then interact with the characters afterward. The event serves as the largest fundraiser for the nonprofit organization that helps families whose children have experienced medical crises. Over the last 20 years, the group has helped hundreds of families with everything from gas cards to transportation and even larger items and needs. Many of those helped were never even known to the group–with social workers at Children’s of Alabama alerting the group to community needs resulting from emergent or serious medical conditions in their children.
The volunteer-based organization has been a labor of love for many community members over the last two decades and raising funds has been a large part of the work. As financial challenges have plagued many families, those funds have gotten leaner over the years, but this fundraiser remains one of the main funding sources for their works–along with private donors, sponsorships and other small fundraisers.
to Just Keep Smiling so they can continue to help families with medical needs, visit www.justkeepsmiling.org or mail check to: Just Keep Smiling, PO Box 1565, Gardendale, AL 35071.
The show, full of the most popular characters from the last few years, will be February 21 and there will be two shows–10 a.m. and 2 p.m. Tickets for general admission are $20. There are also 75 VIP tickets available for $35 each, and include a private preshow meet and greet and priority seating. The event is held at Gardendale First Baptist Church. To purchase tickets or make a donation January 2026 Gardendale Magazine [ 23 ]
/ Photos Album: Christmas in Gardendale /
JINGLE BELLS PHOTOS BY GREG SCHULTZ, RACHEL DAVIS KARR AND SUBMITTED BY COMMUNITY MEMBERS
Christmas Village, the annual Christmas parade, Rocket Around the Christmas Tree Trail and numerous other events turn the City of Gardendale into a Christmas wonderland. Each year, many families visit one or more of these as part of their annual traditions. This year, the parade faced bitter cold and torrential rain, but the smiling faces in these pages make it clear that nothing can dampen the holiday spirit.
[ 24 ] January 2026 Gardendale Magazine
January 2026 Gardendale Magazine [ 25 ]
/ Photos Album: Christmas in Gardendale /
[ 26 ] January 2026 Gardendale Magazine
January 2026 Gardendale Magazine [ 27 ]
/ Photos Album: Christmas in Gardendale /
[ 28 ] January 2026 Gardendale Magazine
January 2026 Gardendale Magazine [ 29 ]
/ Feature /
CHEER UP!
Gardendale Park and Recreation cheerleaders look to build up program
STORY BY RACHEL DAVIS KARR
back to a thriving program.
PHOTOS COURTESY OF JAMIE ERWIN, GARDENDALE PARK AND RECREATION
This year, Jamie Erwin took the reins of the program as the Youth Cheer Director. She hopes to bring new energy and attention to the program. She, and many others, have served as coaches and helped build the program to teach new, young cheerleaders how to participate in cheer and how to compete.
When most people think of park and recreation, they likely think of baseball/ softball or soccer. Those programs have thrived over the years, while other programs like cheerleading have sometimes canceled their seasons because of low enrollment. But there is a plan in place to revitalize the youth cheer program and it has already bounced
Through the hard work of Erwin and the other women, the cheer program has grown // Continued on Page 32 //
[ 30 ] January 2026 Gardendale Magazine
Love the Drive VOTED BEST Automotive Repair Shop Oil Change Tire Company Transmission Service
Tires, Wheels & Automotive Service
Complete Auto Care
Call Us to Schedule Your Service
• New Tires
• Brakes
(205) 631-0042
• Wheels
• Alignment
• Oil Changes
• Engine Repair
2253 Decatur Hwy, Gardendale
& Replacement
Enjoying this magazine? So are thousands of other people in Gardendale. Support Gardendale Magazine, the city’s premier local publication by advertising your business.
Contact us today, and let’s work together. (205) 883-1877 | advertise@jbmcmedia.com
January 2026 Gardendale Magazine [ 31 ]
/ Feature / and is beginning to make waves. Recently, the teams competed in the North Jefferson Area Competition and brought home numerous team and individual awards: •
1st Grade – Sophomore Division 1: 1st Place Champions
•
3rd Grade – Junior 1 Division: 3rd Place
•
5th Grade – Senior 1 Division: 2nd Place
•
Mia Howard - 3rd place Junior 1 Division
•
Logan Erwin- 4th place Sophomore Division 1
“These girls have shown heart, hustle, and so much spirit all season long,” Erwin said. “Their hard work and dedication truly shine on that mat.” Anyone interested in the program or assisting with the cheer program should contact Erwin through Gardendale Park and Recreation.
RESET. REFRESH. STEP INTO 2026 WITH STRENGTH, MOBILITY, AND A PLAN THAT SUPPORTS YOUR GOALS. Start strong this year with support from a movement expert. Your TherapySouth PT will create a customized exercise program that helps you feel better, move better, and stay motivated. ic off the year with an Annual Movement Screening to understand
your mobility and strength.
Hands on Care, Close to Home and Work GARDENDALE
FULTONDALE
1011 Main Street Gardendale, AL
3471 Lowery Parkway, Suite 107 Fultondale, AL
(205) 651-4350
(205) 849-6566
[ 32 ] January 2026 Gardendale Magazine
Visit TherapySouth and start your year strong. Scan the QR code or give us a call to schedule an appointment.
therapysouth.com
/ Community /
Christmas Magic in Gardendale PHOTOS AND INFORMATION SHARED BY COVENANT PLACE AND COVENANT WOODS Even though the Christmas parade brought cold winds and a little rain, nothing could dampen the joy on the faces of the residents of Covenant Place and Covenant Woods—or the dedication of the incredible staff. Residents stayed cozy on the bus, waving to the crowd and enjoying every smile that passed by. This year’s Covenant theme was, “Elf Magic Brings Christmas Stories to Life,” which truly came alive through the hands and hearts of the Covenant Place and Covenant Woods family. Residents helped paint, decorate and bag hundreds of cookies to share along the parade route. Every book spine, every shimmer of light and every cookie handed out was touched by them. Moments like the Christmas parade remind us why Gardendale is so special. This community shows up—with joy, with love and with open hearts—and our residents feel that deeply. We are grateful to live and serve in a place where the magic of Christmas is still very real. Covenant Place and Covenant Woods received first place in the Gardendale Christmas Parade. January 2026 Gardendale Magazine [ 33 ]
City Employee Spotlight BRETT STEWART, FIRE INSPECTOR AND LIEUTENANT G AR DEN DALE FIRE DE PARTME NT
When Brett Stewart got a chance to transfer into Gardendale Fire and Rescue in 2013, he jumped at the chance to come home, even though it meant leaving his firehouse family in Leeds. He grew up in Mt. Olive, and is raising his own family in the north Jefferson area, but he also values his fire families in Leeds and Gardendale. “I love it here,” Stewart said. “I do miss the guys over there, because there's a bunch of great guys over there too. So I still keep in touch with them.” That solidarity is one of the things that attracted Stewart to the fire service in the first place. “I think there's just a lot of camaraderie,” he explained. “It's almost like the fraternities in college. You spend so much time with each other, I guess. We do. I mean we spend every third day with each other, get to know each other and all take care of each other.” That brotherhood became even more important to Stewart in 2024, when he was diagnosed with stage 4 metastatic colon cancer. His wife of 16 years, four children, his family at the fire department and his community have rallied around him as he undergoes treatment. “It's been some tough weeks, but I still try to come in to work, go to church, go to kids' ball games,” he said. “I’m not slowing down one bit. I can't. I've been really fortunate. I haven't had a lot of effects from it, and so it's been a struggle, but we're getting through it. We're still going to get through it. I really believe that. I had a lot of prayer and a lot of people praying for us. And the guys here, they've bent over backwards to help us out, anything we need, so, even though we're going through this, we're very blessed. That is probably my favorite thing about the fire departments and police departments–it is such a family, truly. I know that sounds very cliché, but it's true. So, I'm just going to keep on going and hopefully the good Lord gets us through it.”
Being able to do the job he loves has been a big factor in Stewart’s cancer battle. Most of his job is visiting local businesses and making sure they are in compliance with fire codes, for a very important reason. “If there is an emergency, they'll be able to handle it until we get there,” Stewart explained. “But for the most part, I do that, and I help schedule all of our public education when we go out to the schools, daycares, stuff like that. We bring trucks out there or they come here and all that fun stuff, so that's probably the part I like the most. The outreach and being with the kids, because I got four kids of my own, so all of mine loved it when I came up to their school to see them. And, so I know all the kids really enjoyed coming here. Kids love the fire truck and the fire station.”
We love & support our city workers Adair Tire Pros 2253 Decatur Hwy, Gardendale | (205) 631-0042 [ 34 ] January 2026 Gardendale Magazine
Subscribe & Receive CALL PICKLE FOR...
at your home each month!
SEPTIC TANK CLEANING SEPTIC TANK REPAIRS
GREASE TRAP CLEANING
PUMPS REPLACED & REPAIRED SEWER & DRAIN CLEANING
Scan the QR code
DRAIN JETTING SERVICE
DRAIN LINE CAMERA SERVICE
OR VISIT jbmcmedia.com/magazine-subscriptions
& MORE
Yearly subscription to Gardendale Magazine is $40
FAMILY OWNED SINCE 1967 BLAYSE PICKLE, OWNER
pickleseptic.com
CALL TODAY!
205-631-9423
Why Window World? ENERGY STAR®-certified efficiency
Trusted Quality. Local Expertise. Window World Delivers
Professional installation & service Lifetime warranty for peace of mind Decades of satisfied homeowners
With Pricing Made for Your Family
FLEXIBLE FINANCING OFFERS AVAILABLE! (205) 916-2189 Request a FREE Estimate Today Window World of Central Alabama WindowWorldAlabama.com 135 W Valley Ave, Birmingham, AL 35209
January 2026 Gardendale Magazine [ 35 ]
In The Kitchen with Kathleen Phillips Food Blogger, GritsAndGouda.com
Kathleen Phillips is a food blogger, food stylist, cookbook author, and former Oxmoor House test kitchen director (Southern Living cookbooks). On her food blog, GritsAndGouda.com, she creates Southern shortcut recipes. Follow her on Facebook, Instagram, YouTube and Pinterest.
Double Stuffed Cinnamon Rolls I never really need an excuse to bake something homemade, but since January is National Baking Month, I’m using that as leverage to maybe bake two batches of my Double Stuffed Cinnamon Rolls. If they long wait for the dough and rolls to rise is holding you back, I’m sharing my secret to rising the dough in about half the time! We may not get many snowy days in Alabama, but that shouldn’t stop us from baking homemade sweet rolls like we do! Que the digital fireplace, turn the thermostat down a notch and snuggle up to one of these warm, gooey cinnamon buns. It’s 5 below somewhere!
INGREDIENTS
INSTRUCTIONS
1 cup 2% milk
Pour the milk in a small microwave-safe bowl and add the pieces of butter. Microwave at HIGH for 45 seconds. Stir, and microwave an additional 20 to 25 seconds or until butter melts and instant read or digital thermometer reaches 125 to 130 degrees. You can also do this on the stovetop in a small saucepan.
⅓ cup salted or unsalted butter cut into 4 pieces 3 ½ cups all-purpose or bread flour, divided ¾ teaspoon salt 1 (¼-ounce) package fast rising or Rapid Rise yeast (also called instant) 2 large eggs ¼ cup firmly packed light brown sugar
FILLING 1 ½ cups firmly packed light brown sugar
Beat eggs on medium-low in a heavy-duty stand mixer just until lightly beaten. Combine 2 cups of the flour, yeast, and salt on a paper plate or bowl. Add brown sugar, flour mixture, then hot milk mixture to the eggs in the mixer (in that order) and beat on medium-low until combined. Increase speed to medium and beat 2 minutes. If you have a dough hook for the mixer, put it in now. If not, proceed with regular paddle. Add remaining 1 ½ cups flour and beat at medium speed 3 minutes. The dough will be soft and sticky.
¾ cup salted or unsalted butter, very soft Not tub margarine or spread
Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface (countertop). Cover it with a kitchen towel and let it rest 10 minutes.
1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
FILLING Combine brown sugar, softened butter, and cinnamon. The butter needs to be very soft or it will be hard to spread on the dough.
Vanilla Icing 2 ¼ cups powdered sugar 2 tablespoons whole milk or half and half (adjust for icing thickness) ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
Divide dough in half. Cover half of the dough with towel. Roll the first half into a 14"x12" rectangle. Spread half of the filling on the rectangle to within ½ inch of the edges. Starting at the short end, roll up the dough into a log and pinch the edges to seal them closed. Place the
[ 36 ] January 2026 Gardendale Magazine
TIP FOR FASTER RISING Make your own proofing box to create 85F°. Turn cold oven to 350F°. Set a timer for 1 minute. Turn oven oven. This should create the perfect temperature for the dough to rise faster than room temperature.
log so the seam is on the bottom. Use dental floss or a sharp knife to cut the log into about 1 ¼' slices. (This will give you 10 slices). Or cut into twelve (1") slices. Repeat with remaining dough and filling. Place 10 of the 1 ¼" slices amoung two 9-inch round or square baking pans or dishes. Cover with a kitchen towel and let rise in a warm place 30 to 45 minutes or until doubled its original size. See Tip below for faster rising. Preheat oven to 375 degrees. Uncover and bake the cinnamon rolls at 375 degrees for 20 minutes or until golden on the tops and do not spring back when touched in the middle. I would rather slightly under bake mine than over bake them if I'm in doubt of doneness. Overbaked rolls equals dry and crumbly. VANILLA ICING While the rolls bake, combine powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla in a medium-size bowl. If you powdered sugar has lumps in it, run it through a wire mesh strainer by pressing it with a spoon. Remove the cinnamon rolls from the oven and let rest 5 to 8 minutes. This will be a LONG 5 minutes because the cinnamon aroma will be tempting you. Generously pour the icing over the rolls. Wait 5 minutes, then enjoy!
MEDICARE MADE EASY Do you know all your Medicare options? Your Local Agents at The Harrison Agency are here to help you navigate Medicare.
We advise Seniors on all their Medicare options as well as give recommendations, without influencing any one carrier over another or any one plan over another. We are focused on helping Seniors to navigate through all the red tape and figure out what truly benefits them most.
Pam Harrison
Licensed Insurance Agent pam@theharrisonagencyllc.com
Call Us for fee free help navigating the Medicare Maze
Tammy Jones
Licensed Insurance Agent tammy@theharrisonagencyllc.com
www. theharrisonagencyllc.com @pamela-harrison-ioa
@theharrisonagencyllc
205-514-9568 Please note: Some insurance carriers do not contract with independent agents. Therefore, we do not offer every plan in your area. Any information we provide is limited to those plans we do offer in your area. Please contact Medicare.gov or 1-800-MEDICARE to get information on all your options.
Chinese Sushi & Hibachi Order Online kumosushiasian.com
Open 6 Days a Week KUMO Sushi & Asian 835 Odum Road, Gardendale Across Odum Rd from Walmart
205-285-5250 205-285-9910
Closed Monday
Tues-Thurs 11am-2:30 pm 4pm-9:30 pm Friday: 11am-2:30pm 4 pm-10:30 pm Sat-Sun: 11-am-9:30pm
Schedule a Tour Today 205.849.2352 200 North Pine Hill Rd, Birmingham, AL 35217
Loving Excellence In Senior Care
January 2026 Gardendale Magazine [ 37 ]
/ School News /
SRES Kindergarten Parade Snow Rogers Elementary School’s kindergarten had their “Balloons Over Broadway” parade after they learned about the history of the Macy’s Thanksgiving parade.
GHS Cheer Gardendale High School CHeer brought home 1st Place in Large Varsity in the 2025 Jefferson County Cheer Competition and 2nd place in the Super Varsity Non Tumbling division at the Magic City Regional. [ 38 ] January 2026 Gardendale Magazine
/ School News /
GES Newcomb Gardendale Elementary brought the heat at the annual Staff vs. Students Newcomb game, all while supporting GHS Christmas Visions. The students showed up ready to play and brought their A game, but the teachers rallied, laughed, stretched some muscles they forgot they had, and regained the title of 2025 Newcomb Champs.
Bragg Students of the Month Congratulations to Bragg Middle School’s November Students of the Month. These students were chosen by their teachers for their hard work, a great display of character and their willingness to go above and beyond. Students of the Month are treated to lunch, courtesy of Buffalo Wild Wings in Gardendale and given gift certificates, courtesy of Sonic. •
6th Grade - Foster Ma & Aubrey Armstead
•
7th Grade - Allison Reynolds & Brent Webb
•
8th Grade - Julianna Cruse & Chloe Berendt
Tabernacle Football Awards For their efforts during the 2025 Varsity Football season, four of Tabernacle players received awards from the Christian Football Association: junior Landn Ervin (quarterback), sophomore Aden Garrett (defensive lineman), senior Tucker Andrews (defensive back), and senior Austin Batson (defensive end).
January 2026 Gardendale Magazine [ 39 ]
/ News from our Neighbors / Fultondale opens Public Safety Training Center The City of Fultondale officially opened its new Public Safety Training Center with a ribbon cutting ceremony with the North Jefferson Chamber of Commerce. This addition to the city will serve as a shared space for ongoing training, education, and collaboration; strengthening the skills of those who serve and protect the community every day.
Morris Blue Spoon Chili Fest Winners The Morris Blue Spoon Chili Fest Winners were announced after the competition. The People’s Choice winners were:
[ 40 ] January 2026 Gardendale Magazine
•
1st Place: American Legion (336 votes)
•
2nd Place: Tie: Grilldaddy and Morris Fire (183 votes)
•
3rd Place: Mack Truck Shop (141 votes)
•
Grand Champion Belt winners were:
•
1st Place: Mack Truck Shop (18 points)
•
2nd Place: American Legion (16.2 points)
•
3rd Place: Morris Youth 6/7 (15.6 points)
•
Team Spirit Award winner: Mack Truck Shop
January 2026 Gardendale Magazine [ 41 ]
/ News from our Neighbors / Fultondale Cheer earns bid to Nationals Fultondale High School’s Varsity Cheerleaders won 3rd place at the Smoky Mountain Championship and earned a bid to Nationals.
MJHS Cheerleaders place 2nd in county cheer competition Mortimer Jordan High School’s Cheerleaders placed second in the Jefferson County Cheer Competition.
[ 42 ] January 2026 Gardendale Magazine
SEEING CRACKS?
CALL PARROT for your structural assessment SERVICES
Locally Owned & Operated Serving the Greater Birmingham Area
AL HBLB #24347
205-668-2626
INFO@PARROTSTRUCTURAL.COM | PARROTSTRUCTURAL.COM
Ι Foundation Repair Ι Soil Stabilization Ι Basement Wall Repair Ι Helical Piers Ι Pressure Grouting
Keeping Gardendale’s Kids Healthy since 2004 Dr. Patricia Harris | Dr. Suzanne Stuckey 1127 Pecan Avenue • Suite 100, Gardendale
Call 205-608-2055
healthykidsofgardendale.com January 2026 Gardendale Magazine [ 43 ]
/ Happenings /
Mayor and Police Department pose for annual photo Mayor Stan Hogeland and the Gardendale Police Department continued the tradition of taking a photo together on the night of the annual Christmas Parade.
Morro promoted to Gardendale Police Sergeant Sean Morro was recently promotion to Sergeant within the Gardendale Police Department. His wife and son pinned his new Sergeant’s badge. [ 44 ] January 2026 Gardendale Magazine
Gardendale Council recognized Allstars The Gardendale 6U Maroon Allstars were honored for a great 2025 season. The team was declared the 2025 USSSA Region 4 Gold Bracket Champions, USSSA 6U 7A State Champions and USSSA World Series 4th Place. This talented group overcame many obstacles on their way to a season record of 14-2 during Regional, State and World series games. The team and coaches are pictured with Mayor Stan Hogeland as they receive the proclamation from the Mayor.
Ice Rink at Bill Noble As part of the holiday celebration, Bill Noble opened an ice rink for skating during the month of December.
TAG presents ELF Jr., The Musical The Arts in Gardendale presented a performance of ELF Jr., The Musical over the holidays.
January 2026 Gardendale Magazine [ 45 ]
/ Calendar /
Live with the Characters Live with the Characters, the fundraiser for Just Keep Smiling, is back again this year with the most popular characters from movies and television. The show will be presented on February 21 at 10 a.m. and 2 p.m. Tickets are found at JustKeepSmiling.org.
Golden Eagles The Gardendale Golden Eagles meet on the second Friday of the month at the Gardendale Senior Center beginning at 12:15 pm and ending at 1:30 pm. The group is open to anyone 55 or older and features lunch speakers and fun day trips.
Stock Little Free Library Help us stock our Little Free Library! We are in need of children’s and young adult books in good to perfect condition to stock our Little Free Library (LFL) located by the soccer fields off of Fieldstown Road. Donations can be placed directly in the LFL or you can bring them to the front desk at the library.
Library Food Pantry Our library food pantry always need the following items: hearty soups/stews/chili, varieties of canned chicken/ tuna/ham, single-sized and normal cereal, granola type bars, fruit cups, peanut butter, jelly, oatmeal/grits packets, pasta and Alfredo and other sauces and any toiletries. We take food only if it is not outdated and not opened.
[ 46 ] January 2026 Gardendale Magazine
Historical Museum Hours The Kermit E. Dooley Gardendale Historical Museum (170 Bell Street) will be open to the public every Thursday and Saturday from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. The museum is maintained and operated by the Gardendale Historical Society.
MyGardendale For a complete list of events and happenings, visit MyGardendale. com to see an interactive calendar.
To have an item added to our calendar, please send information to rachel@jbmcmedia.com.
It’s All Here.
Start here to learn more!
Bessemer Campus 1100 9th Ave SW, Bessemer, AL 35022 Birmingham Campus 3060 Wilson Road, SW Birmingham, AL 35221
205-925-2515
www.lawsonstate.edu
Dr. Cynthia T. Anthony President
January 2026 Gardendale Magazine [ 47 ]
Extraordinary
Assisted Living Residences Serving Gardendale since 2002
Call to schedule your tour (205) 608-2200 covenant-place.com 1409 Thompson Circle, Gardendale @ CovenantPlaceandCovenantWoods [ 48 ] January 2026 Gardendale Magazine