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December 2023 PUBLISHER

LIFESTYLE LETTER

Amy Bailey | amy.bailey@citylifestyle.com

It's Beginning To Look A Lot Like Christmas That feeling of being a kid on Christmas morning. What a feeling. What if we could carry that feeling with us throughout life? That each day holds something special, something new, something sacred, something magical. So magical in fact that to keep it to ourselves would be a travesty, so we have to share it because the more we share it - the magic gets better and better. One of my favorite Christmas movies is Scrooged. As Bill Murray exclaims during his monologue at the end, “If you believe in this spirit, the miracle will happen, and then you'll want it to happen again tomorrow. It can happen every day...You'll want it everyday of your life, and it can happen to you.” As we grow up, Christmas changes. Families shift, some get bigger while some get smaller with empty chairs at tables. HJ Ingram speaks about 'empty chairs' in Life After Grief. When I moved back to Huntsville 10 years ago, HJ is someone I met who had a lasting impression on me. She had lost her daughter Meg while Meg was a cheerleader at the University of Alabama. Just being in HJ's presence you felt peace and warmth. She spoke with such eloquence, wisdom and grace. I remember being enamored that someone who had experienced a parent's worst nightmare could live with such joy and zest for life. This spirit she carries within her is the difference. Our first Holiday Issue is packed with beautiful gifts, holiday decor, mental well-being, community philanthropy, and a travel piece to escape the winter blues. But during this most wonderful time of year, I hope we remember the spirit of the season. I hope we find ways to share the spirit and spread joy to others. "If you believe in this spirit, the miracle will happen. It can happen to you." Thank you for making 2023 one of the best year's I could ever imagine. Our goal with this magazine is to share the stories of Huntsville to help make our city and its people shine. I am honored to be telling these stories. God Bless You. Long.Live.Print.

PUBLICATION DIR ECTOR

Madeline Sandlin | madeline.sandlin@citylifestyle.com SALES MANAGER

Susan Rogers | susan.rogers@citylifestyle.com COPY EDITOR

Mary Nell Cole INTER N

Mia Rogers STAFF PHOTOGRAPHER

Nadia Kidd CONTR IBUTING WR ITER

Jennifer Lapidus, Sarah Cummins CONTR IBUTING PHOTOGR APHER S

Jennifer Tarkington, Joe Davis

Corporate Team CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Steven Schowengerdt CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER Matthew Perry EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR OF HR Janeane Thompson DIRECTOR OF FIRST IMPRESSIONS Jennifer Robinson TECHNICAL DIRECTOR Josh Klein AD DESIGNER Matthew Endersbe LAYOUT DESIGNER Andi Foster

A M Y B A I L E Y, P U B L I S H E R @HUNTSVILLECITYLIFESTYLE The reviews keep coming, thank you for taking the time to send: "I just love your magazine, I can't wait to get it every month." "This is the best publication." "Your magazine is a masterpiece." "I read it cover to cover, over and over."

Scan QR code to visit our Instagram CIT YLIFEST YLE.COM/HUNTSVILLE |

Learn how to start your own publication at: citylifestyle.com//franchise Proverbs 3:5-6 Huntsville City Lifestyle™ is published monthly by Lifestyle Publications LLC. It is distributed via the US Postal Service to some of the Huntsville area’s most affluent neighborhoods. Articles and advertisements do not necessarily reflect Lifestyle Publications’ opinions. No portion of this magazine may be reproduced in any form without written consent. Lifestyle Publications does not assume responsibility for statements made by advertisers or editorial contributors. Information in Huntsville City Lifestyle™ is gathered from sources considered to be reliable, but

L I F E ST Y LE LE T T E R

the accuracy of all information cannot be guaranteed.

Live the life you so richly deserve. Fleming Farms Senior Living offers support across a continuum of care. Live and play at your own pace within our Independent Living, Assisted Living, and Memory Care residences. Enjoy a balanced lifestyle with amenities to meet your needs.

Schedule a tour today! Call (256) 692-6435 • FlemingFarms.com 4670 Bellewood Drive SE, Huntsville, AL 35802

DECEMBER 2023

inside the issue The Holidays & Giving Issue

F E ATU R E D

D E PA RTM E NTS

22 All Jeweled Up

Lifestyle Letter

City Scene

Fashion Forward B EAU T Y

Travel Journal T R AV EL

House Call HO ME + DES I GN

Locals Only A RTS + C U LT U R E

Mental Wellbeing FI T NES S

Inspired By HEA LT H + WELLNE SS

Giving Back LO CA L S ERV I C ES

Gift Guide S HO PPI NG

Local’s Choice LI FE + C U LT U R E

Events

Inspired by ‘The King’ of music we layered on jewels for an over the top holiday

34 Escape To The Winter Blues The Caribbean island of Anguilla, better than a dream

44 Deck The Halls

Enjoy a Christmas to remember in Huntsville’s historic Twickenham

68 Life After Grief

Hanna Jon Ingram speaks on the grief of losing her daughter and her husband to cancer

O N T H E C OV E R

Photography: Rich Ortiz Home of LeeLee and Austin Ray decorated at Christmas Time.

JEANNE ALLEN

YOUR REALTOR FOR LIFE Let me help guide you through the buying or selling process. I am

Teacher for 25 years

a life-long resident of Huntsville and love this city. I have been a realtor for 23 years. I am very passionate about developing lasting relationships with clients. I truly care about them and their families.

Born and raised Huntsvillian

I strive to make your experience in moving to, within or from Huntsville as quick and stress free as possible. Dedicated to finding you the best home at the best price

Jeanne Allen, Owner and Broker Associate 3508 Memorial Pkwy SW, Huntsville (256) 337-7615 www.findinghuntsvillehomes.com

Building relationships that last

Take Your Home From Ordinary To Extraordinary

Since 1946, Brooks & Collier has been one of North Alabama’s favorite retail stores. We specialize in offering you everything you need to make your home unique–inside and out. We strive to bring you a home and garden shopping experience that will keep you coming back for all your indoor and outdoor living needs. We’re your destination for living lively.

brooksandcollier.com • 256-534-2781

DECEMBER 2023

city scene

Where neighbors can see and be seen. 1

JEFF WHITE

JENNIFER TARKINGTON

JEFF WHITE

JENNIFER TARKINGTON

1: The Maleknia Family at Huntsville Museum of Art Rania Matar SHE Event. 2: The Keene family at Huntsville Museum of Art Rania Matar SHE Event. 3: Amy Bailey and Maggie Rees at the Huntsville City Lifestyle Fall Soiree. 4: Marilyn Hull and Mary Susan Johnson at First United Methodist’s Lunch on the Greene serving Narvell’s fried chicken. 5: David and Michele Lucas at First United Methodist’s Lunch on the Greene. CONTINUED >

C I T Y SC E N E

HOLIDAY COCKTAILS windmillbev.com 9 Locations | 1 Near You

CIT Y SCENE CONTINUED

6: Nadia Kidd, Sheyda Aziz, and at Huntsville City Lifestyle Fall Soiree. 7: Tara Dorsey, Chelsea Forbes, Anna Lauren Brown at the Liz Hurley Ribbon Run. 8: Casey Sills and Heather Green at the Liz Hurley Ribbon Run.

Want to be seen in the magazine? Tag your Instagram photos with @HuntsvilleCityLifestyle

PRODUCTS AT YOUR SERVICE At ServisFirst Bank, all our products and services were designed with you in mind. Your personal banker will work with you to find the right, competitive solutions to fit your needs and vision of success. Downtown Banking Center 401 Meridian Street, Suite 100 Huntsville, AL 35801 256.722.7800

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Celebrate Responsibly

THE WEEDEN HOUSE

2023 TWICKENHAM HOMES & LUMINARY TOUR

Spirit of Christmas Past When

From INFO

SATURDAY, DECEMBER 9TH 5-9:00 PM

WWW.WEEDENHOUSEMUSEUM.COM

The following homes will be on tour416 MCCLUNG AVE. 410 LINCOLN STREET 310 WHITE CIRCLE 415 LOCUST AVE. THE WEEDEN HOUSE, 300 GATES AVE. Ticket prices are $20 per adult and $5 for children under 12 and will be available for purchase at the door as well as these locations-

HARRISON BROTHERS HARDWARE THE GREENERY THE CONVENTION AND VISITOR'S CENTER BROOKS AND COLLIER THE WEEDEN HOUSE

Sheyda styled in jewelry from Loring&Company.

ALL JEWELED UP Inspired by ‘The King’ of music we layered on jewels for an over the top holiday

ARTICLE BY AMY BAILEY PHOTOGRAPHY BY JENNIFER TARKINGTON

FASH ION F OR WA R D | BE AUTY

Whether you’ve heard Blue Christmas a thousand times or like to hum along to Here Comes Santa Claus, Christmas and Elvis seem to go hand in hand. With The King’s over the top style as inspiration and playing off some of his favorite outfits, we styled four models in jewels from Loring&Company and Stratton Jewelry that prove the best gifts come in small packages.

Sheyda styled in jewelry from Loring&Company.

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Tiffany styled in jewelry by Doves from Stratton Jewelry.

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Tiffany styled in jewelry by Doves from Stratton Jewelry.

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Anna Elise styled in jewelry from Loring&Company.

FASH ION F OR WA R D | BE AUTY

Anna Elise styled in jewelry from Loring&Company.

CONTINUED >

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Stratton styled in jewelry by Dilamani from Stratton Jewelry.

FASH ION F OR WA R D | BE AUTY

Stratton styled in jewelry by Dilamani from Stratton Jewelry.

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Stratton styled in jewelry by Dilamani from Stratton Jewelry.

FASH ION F OR WA R D | BE AUTY

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2023 November 17 through December 31 Walking Nights

Friday, November 17 through Sunday, November 26 (Closed Thanksgiving) Wednesday, November 29 through Sunday, December 3 Saturday, December 16 through Sunday, December 24 Dog Nights: Mondays and Tuesdays during Walking Nights

Driving Nights

Monday, December 4 - Friday, December 15 Tuesday, December 26 - Sunday, December 31

Tickets on sale at hsvbg.org/galaxy Presented by

GALAXY OF LIGHTS Huntsville Botanical Garden | 4747 Bob Wallace Avenue, Huntsville, AL 35805

ESCAPE TO THE WINTER BLUES The Caribbean island of Anguilla, better than a dream

ARTICLE AND PHOTOGRAPHY BY AMY BAILEY

Lose the crowds and find an island paradise steeped in culture, beauty, and endless shades of blue this resort season. Anguilla may sound exotic (pronounced similarly to vanilla) yet it is just a short flight to this island in the sun that feels worlds away. CONTINUED >

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“Why Anguilla? On this 16-mile long, unspoiled and not overly developed island, there are 33 beautiful white sand beaches. It is also quiet, very quiet, even in high season also known as resort season running December-April.” History shows the ancient tribe of Arawak Indians founded the Leeward Island of Anguilla around 2000 BC. They believed that in these beautiful blue waters creation came to be when the sun and moon escaped from an island cave. The original name the Arawaks called Anguilla was Malliouhana which means ‘arrow-headed sea serpent’ symbolizing the eel-like shape of the island. Anguilla is situated a mere 20 minute boat ride from the Caribbean island of Saint Martin. Though you can fly into Anguilla, there are many more flight options going in and out of Saint Martin’s Princess Juliana International Airport. Why Anguilla? On this 16-mile long, unspoiled and not overly developed island, there are 33 beautiful white sand beaches. It is also quiet, very quiet, even in high season, also known as resort season, running December-April. This more secluded tropical paradise offers peace of mind as you sink your toes into the pillow soft sand, or take a swim among colorful schools of fish with waves gently lapping against your skin. Malliouhana isn’t just the Arawak name of the island, it is also the name of Anguilla’s premier resort located on Meads Bay. Enter the towering open air lobby at Malliouhana and you enter into a technicolor dream. Aquamarine and shades of yellow follow you throughout the hotel which impresses with its impeccably stylish and colorful design. Perhaps the most jaw-dropping design element is the mirrored mosaic tile floor spanning throughout the open air lobby and ocean view balcony. With only 63 rooms on Meads Bay and spacious grounds, the resort is one you can easily disappear to your own private sandy beach or secluded ocean cove. Palm lined pathways lead you to your room or villa. A state of the art gym and decadent spa with services

cultivated around locally sourced ingredients is also found on the property. Malliouhana.com.

SNORKELING Snorkeling abounds in Anguilla. Who doesn’t want to dive into those crystal clear, thousands of shades of blue? At Malliouhana you can reserve a snorkel and head out to explore straight from the resort’s beach at Meads Bay. However, Shoals Bay is the top destination for snorkeling. Enjoy spotting swarms of fish, stingrays, and even sea turtles.

VISITING A NEARBY CAY Visiting Sandy Island or Prickly Pear, one of Anguilla’s off-shore cays, will be the highlight of your trip. As you approach the tiny cay the hues of blues contrast against the white sands of the beach. Enjoy a lunch of freshly caught spiny lobster or crayfish at one of the small restaurants located on each cay. You may also catch kite surfers on Sandy Island. Dream Yacht Charter offers year round excursions from Anguilla to nearby cays dreamyachtcharter.com.

MOKE RIDE These brightly colored iconic modes of European transportation are available for rent through Moke Anguilla, and they create the perfect way to day trip around the island - beach hopping and exploring local eateries.

LIVE MUSIC Bankie Banx is a music legend in Caribbean, and a visit to Anguilla means a visit to his music venue Dune Preserve on Rendezvous Bay. Dune Preserve offers live music every day of the week, and on weekends Bankie Banx takes the mic himself. This establishment has even been named the World’s Best Beach Bar by CNN. CONTINUED >

T R AV E L J OU R N A L | TR AVE L

“Visiting Sandy Island or Prickly Pear, one of Anguilla’s off-shore cays, will be the highlight of your trip.”

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PETROGLYPHS

Blanchard's

Carved stalagmites and hundred of petroglyphs line Big Spring and Fountain Cave. A visit to one of these underground tourist attractions is a captivating way to learn more about the Arawak Indians and other indigenous tribes that called the Caribbean home.

CULINARY SCENE Perhaps one of my favorite things about Anguilla is the food. Freshly caught seafood of spiny lobster, crayfish, and every kind of fish you can think of abound at all beachside and local restaurants. Another island delicacy for the adventurous foodie goat. Accompanying most dishes are rice, beans, and plantains. Blanchard’s is a favorite. Also try Sharky’s, Da’Vida, Straw Hat, Leon’s, or for a more formal setting, Celeste at Malliouhana. And don’t forget to try roadside barbecue which may leave you feeling a little nostalgic for home. These local, no-frills stops serve up chicken and ribs, rice and peas, and Johnny cakes. Inexpensive and a true taste of local flavor. A short flight from Atlanta and you can be in this island paradise in a matter of hours. The quick boat excursion from Saint Martin to Anguilla makes it feel even more exotic and remote, as if you are on the other side of the world, away from the noise of day-to-day life. CONTINUED >

T R AV E L J OU R N A L | TR AVE L

“Aquamarine and shades of yellow follow you throughout the hotel which impresses with its impeccably stylish and colorful design.”

Wall Of Diver's Helmets at Malliouhana

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Sandy Island

T R AV E L J OU R N A L | TR AVE L

R E S T. R E L A X .

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• Two on-site restaurants

• Full-service spa

• Poolside Bar & Grill

• Private Balcony Hot Tub

• Poolside bar & grill

• Six pools

• Ice cream shop

• Arcade

• Exclusive Spectrum Club Lounge

• Gas Grill on Every Balcony

• Food trucks

• Basketball courts

• Lazy River

• On-site Shopping

• Boutique shopping

• Tennis courts

• Two Outdoor Pools

• Tennis Courts

• Two Indoor Pools

• Playground

• Two Fitness Centers

Book direct through Spectrum Resorts for a worry-free vacation experience.

Spectrum guests receive added benefits includingBeachClubAL.com discounts on on-site dining and shopping, freshly laundered coverlets with every stay and zero down on vacations booked more than 45 days in advance.

When our community thrives, we all prosper. Prosperity is about so much more than money. It’s about living well in a community that is healthy and stable. At Morgan Stanley, we feel fortunate to live in a place that is supported by so many worthy service organizations. Their good deeds make everyone’s life richer.

Left to right: Alex Pols, Pennie Keene, Mark Mantooth

The Mantooth/Pols/Keene Group at Morgan Stanley Alex Pols Senior Vice President Financial Advisor 256-690-5479 Alex.Pols@morganstanley.com Pennie Keene Senior Vice President Financial Advisor 256-690-5801 Penelope.Keene@morganstanley.com Mark Mantooth Managing Director–Wealth Management Financial Advisor 256-690-5456 Mark.Mantooth@morganstanley.com 305 Church Street Huntsville, AL 35801

SUP031 CRC 6008341 10/23 CS 711289 06/23

DECK THE HALLS Enjoy a Christmas to remember in Huntsville’s historic Twickenham

Did you know that Alabama was the first state to make Christmas a holiday? In 1836, Alabama declared Christmas a legal holiday. It was not made an official holiday of the United States until June 26, 1870. Charles Dickens book, A Christmas Carol, was published in 1843 and played a significant role in Christmas becoming a national holiday. Christmas time in downtown Huntsville is a beautiful occasion. Historic homes in the Twickenham district are draped in garland of cedar and magnolia. Entryways are donned up in florals, poinsettias, wreaths, and even citrus. The annual Twickenham Tour of Homes is an event that draws people from across North Alabama giving them an opportunity to step inside these homes all dressed up in their finest holiday attire. The tour is also educational and full of history of the area that gives both residents and visitors an opportunity to learn more about what makes Huntsville so unique. The Morgan-Neal House on Franklin Street is one that is always dressed to the nines at Christmas time. The home was built around 1823 and then remodeled in its current Italianate style in 1855 by owner George Neal. The home has many stories but the one currently being lived out in it, is that of the Ray family. Austin and LeeLee Ray moved into the home a few years ago to raise their

young family. The unique part of this story is that the home was LeeLee’s childhood home. “It means the world to me that so many stages of our lives, so many memories, are all wrapped up in this beautiful family home,” says LeeLee. From the moment you knock on the gorgeous hand carved wooden doors, it is apparent this home is special. Pair the beautiful bones of the home with LeeLee’s keen attention to details and you set the stage for a Christmas scene that rivals any. In the formal living LeeLee places her largest tree covered in colored lights and hand knitted snowflake ornaments by her grandmother. “I have dreamed of living here as an adult for many years, so decorating my first grown-up tree in this house was a dream come true.” LeeLee continues, “Each decoration has a memory. Pulling out my Grandmother Wiginton’s crocheted snowflakes and usin Austin’s May maw’s Christmas china, all of our memories come together as a family.” Taking a turn into the family room you will find a tree with handmade ornaments by her children and stocking with everyone’s name on them hanging from the mantel. The fire gently going gives that cozy feeling and it is no doubt that a lot of love is poured into this room and the holiday season. CONTINUED >

ARTICLE BY AMY BAILEY PHOTOGRAPHY BY RICH ORTIZ

H OU SE CA LL | HOM E + DE S I GN

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The star of the show throughout the year is the lacquered ceiling in the dining room. Local Jack-Of-All-Trades Mike Knox brought the reflective ceiling to life beautifully. The dining room mantel decked with silver trees and LeeLee has set the table with her finest china, crystal, silver, and monogrammed linens. The holiday decor expands in almost every room. The kitchen is a place loved by LeeLee. As an entrepreneur she owned her own restaurant and catering business, Lyn’s Gracious Goodness, started by her mother Lyn. Her and her mother’s culinary talents are well-known in the region. LeeLee smiles, “I am a very sentimental person, and the idea of cooking meals for my children in the same kitchen where my Mama taught me how to cook is very special.” She continues, “My Mama taught me you can heal just about anything with a little love and a meal.” The kitchen is where the Ray family lives out their every day moments as family and their most memorable nights with friends. LeeLee’s favorite thing to make at Christmas is boiled custard and Tipsy balls. Home is where the love is. Home is where beauty is. Home is where the holidays come to life in every way for The Ray family. The Ray’s home was part of the 2022 Twickenham Tour of Homes. This year’s tour will be held Saturday December 9th in coordination with the Twickenham Luminaries 5-9pm. Tickets are $20 per adult and $5 per child. Tickets can be purchased at Harrison Brothers Hardware, Brooks&Collier, The Greenery, and the Convention and Visitor’s Bureau. This year’s homes include: • 310 White Circle • 416 McClung Avenue • 410 Lincoln Street • 415 Locust Avenue • The Weeden House 300 Gates Avenue Chase Creek Strings Group will be playing Christmas music at The Weeden House. Central Presbyterian Church along with Hawthorne Conservatory will be serving warm drinks and hosting a concert. First Methodist Church will be hosting an Open House and have Christmas music and Church of the Nativity offer Christmas carols, cookies and cider. CONTINUED >

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H OU SE CA LL | HOM E + DE S I GN

Stephanie Knows Real Estate 17 Years in the Industry!

Born and raised in our community, Stephanie has an intimate knowledge of Greater Huntsville/Madison County. She has managed sales teams that have sold over 500 homes yearly and generated a total revenue of over $100 Million per year! If you are looking for a composed and assertive agent that will stay in constant communication with you along the way, call Stephanie today!

DIRECT: 256-655-0698

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S t w r o o n l S GAS LIGHT ALLEY l Mrs. Claus’

FRIDAYS & SATURDAYS DECEMBER 1 - 16 5:30pm - 8:30pm

stove.house/snowstroll

DEB BALL ARTICLE BY JENNIFER LAPIDUS PHOTOGRAPHY BY JENNIFER TARKINGTON

In the heart of Alabama lies a gem of Southern culture. For over half a century, the Huntsville Symphony Orchestra Guild Symphony Ball has captivated the community with its debutantes whose grace, beauty, and commitment to philanthropy and furthering musical education is deeply rooted in generations of tradition. This October, the esteemed society of the Huntsville Symphony Orchestra Guild (HSOG) hosted its 60th debutante ball, which has evolved and adapted to the ever-changing times while maintaining its inherent charm and sophistication. Thirty-five college-age young ladies were honored. Each year, music, roses, belles, and ballgowns abound in what is the most spectacular social event of the year in Huntsville, a city steeped in tradition since the mid-nineteenth century and rocketed into international history in the 1950s. It all began in 1964 when a group of visionary women in the Huntsville Civic Symphony Guild sponsored a gala dedicated to combining the social and cultural life of the community by introducing young women to Huntsville society while

LOCA LS ON LY | A RTS + CULTURE

raising funds to purchase an acoustical shell for the Huntsville Civic Symphony (organized in 1954 and today known as the Huntsville Symphony Orchestra). Originally held on a Friday during Symphony Week in early October (so as not to interfere with Saturday college football), this keystone for the social structure of the community was patterned after English aristocratic society practices and included the secret selection of eligible young ladies by an anonymous, female, 9-member debutante board, independent of the Guild, and with the financial support of an advisory board of 7 men. Since the inception of the event, Guild members have had no participation in the selection of the girls to be presented. According to a 1964 Birmingham Post-Herald article, then Guild President Mrs. Milton E. Whitley (Jane) said, “the Guild is neither qualified, nor does it desire, to select the girls to be presented” and “for obvious reasons… the (debutante) board must remain completely anonymous.” The only Guild contact to the debutante board is through the Guild’s Presentation Chairman, who acts as liaison, and that title has exclusively been occupied by only 4 Guild members in CONTINUED >

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the last six decades: Mrs. John H. Wallace III (Bess) 1964-1975, Mrs. Louis George Rambo (Martha) 1976-2002, Mrs. Peter Loftis Lowe (Betsy) 2003-2015, and Mrs. Carl John Gessler, Jr. (Sarah) 2016-present. Past Presentation Chairman Betsy Lowe, who maintained the position for 13 years, said, “it is a year-round job which originally included meeting with each debutante one-on-one, approving of each debutante dress, teaching them how to curtsy, and coordinating the formal presentation during the Ball.” The duties are so extensive, Mr. Randy Roper, whose family came to Huntsville in 1819, has served by the side of the last 3 of 4 Presentation Chairmen since he was age 24. As the Presentation Chairman’s right hand, Mr. Roper has no official title in that capacity, but he has simultaneously been an advisor more than 20 times.

“A T T H E A G E O F 1 3 , I H A D NO I DE A W H AT A D E B U T A N T E WA S . S I X Y E A R S L A T E R , I WA S A M A R S H A L AT T H E BA L L A N D H AV E E N J OY E D AT T E N DI NG A S A N E S C O R T, A D V I S O R , O R B E N E FA C T O R E V E R S I N C E .”

LOCA LS ON LY | A RTS + CULTURE

The first Symphony Ball held Friday, October 9, in Dunnavant’s Mall, currently known as the Medical Mall at the corner of Memorial Parkway and Governors Drive. (Dunnavant’s Department Store was the anchor of the shopping center and the mall was the largest space available at the time.) Nine-hundred and seventy coveted invitations were mailed in early September, and nearly 1,000 Huntsvillians attended. The previous day, Huntsville native and current Huntsville Symphony Orchestra CEO Dan Halcomb remembered shopping with his mother and 7-year-old brother in Dunnavant’s after school and seeing the mall draped and tables covered and set. Mr. Halcomb said, “At the age of 13, I had no idea what a debutante was. Six years later, I was a Marshal at the Ball and have enjoyed attending as an escort, advisor, or benefactor ever since.” That Friday evening, twenty-two young women were presented. According to a 1964 Huntsville Times article, “a setting of elegance and formality was achieved with fountains banked with white mums featuring underwater lights” and “white chandeliers with white candles entwined with gold beads and crystal prisms” suspended from the ceiling. Two-thousand and four Symphony Ball Chair, Mrs. Raymond Leroy Livingston, Jr. (Sheryl), recalls from history passed down through Ball Chairs, that “area businesses such as Rutenberg’s, Richards Lighting, and Roper’s Flowers completely transformed the interior space. Tables were covered with white tablecloths sewn by Guild members (as there were no rental companies in Huntsville at the time) and white fabric swags donated CONTINUED >

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by local cotton mills draped every wall and store front.” The Guild created a Versailles Garden scene including white wrought iron furniture, trees, palms, floral arrangements, and custom-made lyre centerpieces antiqued with gold. The lyre-embossed invitation-only event, costing $35 per couple, began promptly at 9:00 p.m. with no admittance after 9:45 p.m. The formal presentation of the debutantes, who wore white ball gowns, 16-button, kidskin, operalength gloves, and carried bouquets of red roses while being escorted by their fathers, was announced by symphony conductor Russell Gerhart at 10:00 p.m. and was followed by a father and daughter dance, a debutante and escort dance, and a champagne breakfast at midnight. Attendees danced the night away to music performed by future “Big Band and Jazz Hall-of-Famer” Claude Thornhill, who at the time was also Tony Bennett’s musical director, until the evening’s end at 1:00 a.m. The musical theme was further carried throughout the event with the use of lyres which remain the symbol of the Ball; gold lyre charms are presented to each debutante to this day. While the core components of the debutante season remain the same, including a steadfast commitment to community service by cleaning violins for the Huntsville Symphony Orchestra Third Grade Violin Program and preparing coloring book kits for pediatric patients at Huntsville Hospital for Women and Children, it also has evolved to embrace the changing times with professionalism and leadership training. While these young women embody the refinement of

LOCA LS ON LY | A RTS + CULTURE

a bygone era, their participation ensures the life of classical music in Huntsville, and their legacy as ambassadors of art and culture will continue to inspire generations yet to come. In a world of constant change, the Huntsville Symphony Orchestra Guild debutantes offer a sense of continuity, reminding us of the immense power of music to transcend time and connect us all. This year’s debutantes include Mary Elizabeth Anderson, Sadie Elizabeth Anglin, Anna Katherine Ayres, Scout Margaret Esmeralda Ann Bender, Madison Renee Bibb, Anna Holland Blackwell, Gabriela Elizabeth Comulada, Samantha Fay Counts, Isabella Ariel Duesing, Suzan Tabory Ellett, Kate Ellen Flowers, Julia Ann Fowler, Anastasia Rachel Jenette Gann, Rani Leela Ginn, Anna Catherine Goodson, Wyndham Karen Herring, Mallory Paige Holland, Virginia Ann Jarres, Margaret Chrystalla Kattos, Kendal Brooke Killian, Betty Jean League, Maggie Grace May, Dollie Meredith Patricia Murray, Clara Grace McManus, Nancy Katherine Owens, Kristen Merrill Parker, Catherine Love Plott, Abbie Elizabeth Rankin, Emery Elizabeth Rexroad, Madeline Kate Slinkard, Elizabeth Park Scholl, Jane Hollaway Simpson, Caroline Robertson Smith, Chloe June Stepien, Sophia Kathleen Wilson. CONTINUED >

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Tis The Season To Be Stressed? It’s beginning to look a lot like Christmas? Or overeating, overspending, grief, anxiety, sadness? For some of us holidays mean excitement and joy and for others of us, we might be feeling a little “bah humbug” with the added stressors that arise. Our lives become inundated with gatherings and shopping all pressured by deadlines, responsibilities, and expectations.

HOLIDAY STRESSORS: Seasonal depression (Seasonal Affective Disorder - SAD): Cooler temperatures and

shorter days trigger a chemical change in the brain. The body creates more melatonin, a hormone that assists in sleep, and the body receives less Vitamin D from sunlight making us feel fatigued and moody. Financial Strain: Increased spending on gifts, food, and social gatherings results in less money spent on self-care. Consumptionbased society and “keeping up with the Joneses” mentality means we will spend more money during the holidays than any other time of year.

FOR MANY THE HOLIDAYS BRING HEIGHTENED STRESS, HERE ARE TIPS TO HELP BALANCE AND CALM

ARTICLE BY SARAH CUMMINS | PHOTOGRAPHY BY NADIA KIDD

M EN TA L WE LLB E IN G | FITNE S S

Poor diet and busy schedules: A diet of high fat and sugary foods during the holidays coupled with an increase in social activities means less time at the gym and fewer home-cooked meals. Family time: Heated conversations over political and religious views can trigger a mental regression that can lead to coping mechanisms like alcohol, drugs or overeating. Grief and loss: Anyone who has lost someone is challenged during the holidays. Grief has no predictable timeline and the holidays can trigger an onset of overwhelm or depression. There is a lot of pressure to “be happy” despite common feelings of loneliness or isolation. Our energy is depleted trying to put on a happy face to avoid judgement or questions. As a yoga therapist, I work one-on-one with many clients to overcome these strains on mental health during the holidays and throughout the year. Yoga has an incredible ability to keep our mental health in check during stressful periods of life. While movement is a key component to our mental and physical health it is just one piece of yoga.Yoga in its entirety is an ancient lifestyle of discipline and mindfulness.

THE FOLLOWING ARE SKILLSETS I USE TO HELP COPE WITH THE STRESS OF THE HOLIDAYS AND BEYOND:

Feel Your Feelings: Your feelings are meant to be felt. Give yourself ample opportunity to be present with what you are feeling and reach out for help with a trusted person in your life if you need to talk it through. Maintain Reasonable Expectations: The yogic skill of non-attachment is the ability to enjoy the journey by living in the present moment. Let go of the worry that the meal you are making or the gift you are buying won’t be good enough. Instead remain in the present and enjoy the process of cooking, shopping, and being with loved ones. Free yourself of the expectations. If you have never been able to impress your mother-in-law with your sweet potato pie, you probably never will, so let that go! Have an Attitude of Gratitude: Very few of us can be unhappy when we think of all the things for which we are grateful. Contentment allows us to accept and appreciate what we have and helps us to resist the habit to focus on what could be better or compare ourselves others. Practice Self-Care: The skill of self-discipline in yoga is the ability to stick to your routine even when you are busy. That means maintaining your healthy habits like exercise, healthy food choices, time for quiet reflection, or meditation and prayer. Yoga also teaches us to see negativity, old habits or thought patterns for what they are and assists us in releasing those things we no longer want or need in our life. Just Breathe: Something as simple as breathing practices can be a great way to regulate our nervous system. The next time you feel overwhelmed, stressed, anxious, or depressed try focusing on your breath. One of my favorite breathing techniques is called box breath. Try it: Inhale for a count of 4, retain your breath for a count of 4, exhale for a count of 4, and then remain empty for a count of 4. Repeat.

“We have been programmed to try to control every situation and letting go isn’t easy. ”

Set Boundaries: Practice the yogic discipline of non-harming. Know your limits. Limit who you spend time with and how much. Just because you are related or love them doesn’t mean you need negativity. It’s ok to say no! You don’t have to say yes to every event, invitation, or volunteer opportunity. Pick the things that mean the most to you and focus your energy there. Reserve Your Energy: Consider what current tasks are draining your vitality and either delegate by asking for help or let it go completely. Be aware of how your energy feels when doing certain activities and decide how to cultivate a life that isn’t draining.

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“Be aware of how your energy feels when doing certain activities and decide how to cultivate a life that isn’t draining.”

Take Time to Rest: We live in a busy society and rest is seen as negative or lazy. However, rest is vital to our wellness. The downfall of the holidays is that very few of us find the time for respite. Yoga teaches to focus on the present. In the quiet of the present moment, peace becomes easy. Surrender to What Is: There are many things outside of our control; relationships, weather, illness, the grocery store sold out of cranberry sauce. We have been programmed to try to control every situation and

M EN TA L WE LLB E IN G | FITNE S S

letting go isn’t easy. The teaching of surrender, is a path to peace and one of the most difficult practices of yoga. Surrendering is not weakness; it is strength in knowing when we need to change course or go with the flow of life. Surrender is knowing when we need to bend, so we don’t break. You are not alone in the process. For pricing, scheduling, classes, retreats and group events with Waterfall Yoga Therapy: www.waterfallyogallc.com

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Life After Grief

Hanna Jon Ingram speaks on the grief of losing her daughter and her husband to cancer ARTICLE BY AMY BAILEY | PHOTOGRAPHY BY NADIA KIDD

I NSP IR E D BY | HEA LTH + W E LLNE S S

There is something you notice immediately when you meet Hanna Jon Ingram, it is the peace, the joy, the grace that exudes from her words and from her presence. Knowing the deep losses she has endured, it is a quality to behold. Hanna Jon lost her daughter Meg to brain cancer while Meg was a college cheerleader at the University of Alabama. She and her husband Lance lived out a parent’s biggest fear - losing a child. In and out of hospitals and doctor’s visits, they walked every step of that heart wrenching journey with a faith and reliance on God. In fact it is this deep relationship with God that they each would credit getting them through those dark days. In early 2022, Hanna Jon lost Lance to cancer. HJ, as she is called by friends, knows loss better than most, yet she continues to live and thrive through strength and grace. With holidays come intense feelings of grief for many, HJ shares what she has learned on her journey and how she continues to put one foot in front of the other.

WHAT DO YOU FIND THE HARDEST ABOUT THE HOLIDAYS? The empty chair. But, we are pretty good about focusing more on who IS here instead of who is NOT. We’ll toast in memory and share stories. We may shed a few tears, but we are thankful for the time we had. We accept it was time for them to go and rest in the assurance we will see them again. We are more happy than sad.

WHAT ARE THE BEST WAYS YOU HAVE FOUND TO DEAL WITH GRIEF? Talking about it. I’m handling it differently with Lance’s passing than I did with Meg’s. I’m allowing myself to feel more and to face it head on with authenticity (it’s not always pretty.) I think that our

society does us no favors in “expecting” us to return to “normal” after we bury our loved ones. We should do a better job of understanding that our lives will not be the same again. That doesn’t mean we won’t have great, happy lives, but we can do a better job of helping those who have lost people to assimilate back into their new lives. We can demonstrate compassion better. Grief never totally goes away. It softens, and it becomes easier, but even years later something can trigger us and we feel the wave of grief again. Being authentic about that and unashamed actually helps others going through it. We need to be a little more “real” and a lot less buttoned up about what grief is really like. Grief is messy and that’s ok.

WHAT ARE YOUR FONDEST MEMORIES OF THE HOLIDAYS? Hot chocolate, egg nog (Mimi’s recipe), dancing in the living room, watching Home Alone, laughter, guessing what’s under the tree, Christmas Eve Candlelight service singing Silent Night – and hoping it’s NOT my kid setting her hair on fire. Meg’s last Christmas Madalyn took her to Cecil Ashburn and they decorated a Christmas tree together – and all of her friends joined to decorate the tree.

HOW DO YOU VIEW GRIEF? As crazy as it sounds, I view grief as an opportunity. Don’t get me wrong – it’s hard and some days are so painful I can’t breathe. But, on days when I’m clear headed and focused, the opportunity is there. Opportunity to be grateful to have experienced the love that came before the grief. Opportunity to learn and refine myself, values and purpose. Opportunity to reflect. Opportunity to lean on God and grow in my love and trust in Him. And, opportunity to serve others going through grief. CONTINUED >

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HOW HAS YOUR FAITH GOTTEN YOU THROUGH THESE TIMES? Simply, I would not have gotten through these times without my Faith. We’ve dealt with serious cancer situations since 2005. But, when Meg was diagnosed in 2006, it was a “put your money where your mouth is” opportunity. It’s easy to say we have faith – until we are faced with an opportunity to live it out. We are told “in this life you will have trouble”. The lessons I’ve learned so far include acceptance of circumstance (asking “why” to questions you may never get answered creates unrest in my opinion), assurance of my future, and embracing that death is part of the circle of life (we need to stop being afraid to discuss this.) Having a strong faith doesn’t take the pain away, but it allows me to be content and comfortable that God can use all things for his glory if we allow. My prayer is that I walk in a way that allows others experiencing struggles to know there is joy in spite of the pain.

WHAT WOULD YOU TELL SOMEONE WHO HAS RECENTLY SUFFERED A LOSS? To allow yourself to feel the pain of the loss and deal with the emotions. Then, when life gets quiet – everyone returns to their lives and there you are with the loss – be intentional about what you want your life to look like. Write it down and take 1 small step each day. Ask a close friend to be your accountability partner. Start a gratitude journal. Every single day take time at the end of the day to write down 3 things that brought you joy that day - even the tiniest little thing. This will CHANGE YOUR LIFE. It sure changed mine. I started my gratitude journal in 2006.

WHAT LEGACY DO YOU HOPE TO LEAVE WITH YOUR DAUGHTER AND GRANDCHILDREN? There are a few things I would hope to be my legacy. The first is being an example of how to “pay it forward”. I’m a strong believer than when you think you’ve got it bad, go serve – get outside of yourself. We have had a lot of opportunity in our family to support people who have gone through similar circumstance. We are here to support one another and “pay it forward”, if you will. CONTINUED >

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I NSP IR E D BY | HEA LTH + W E LLNE S S

Another thing I hope will be a legacy is how I model resiliency and strive to embrace joy. Life throws us curveballs, but it doesn’t mean we have a bad life. If Madalyn and the grandbabies can take anything from me I hope it will be that they see I work hard to embrace the joy and find beauty in each day. As a final thing, I hope I leave a legacy of living a loving, happy, authentic life. If this grief journey has taught me anything, it has taught me to tell people that I love them. To live life with no regrets. I encourage all of you to let the walls down a little bit – tell people you love them. Give them a hug. It will make for a richness and a depth to life that is so sweet.

WHAT SIGNS LET YOU KNOW THAT LANCE AND MEG ARE STILL WITH YOU? It is funny things like when I wake up at 3am. That was always when Meg and

I had good conversation when she was sick. Now, when I wake up at 3am I just say “Hi baby, what’s on your mind?” With Lance it is mockingbirds. Lance had a special connection with mockingbirds, especially after Meg died. Now, they show up in pairs and I feel like Meg and Lance are watching over me, encouraging me. And also, “our songs” seem to come on at just the right times. I feel very close to them regularly.

WHAT HAS GRIEF TAUGHT YOU? Grief has taught me to be more present in my life and to carve out toxicity. It has also taught me to spend more time on things that matter – faith, family, friends, giving back to our community – and to not get too caught up in negativity. Grief has taught me to set boundaries and to live more intentionally. In many ways grief has taught me to soften my rough edges.

CONTINUED >

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I NSP IR E D BY | HEA LTH + W E LLNE S S

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IT’S TIME TO SHOP THE NEW ENVY

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Sleep In Heavenly Peace

F U L LY- F U R N I S H E D B E D S TO T H O S E I N N E E D

ARTICLE BY AMY BAILEY PHOTOGRAPHY BY NADIA KIDD

Many of us cannot imagine what it is like to not sleep in a bed. Having your own bed is a source of comfort, peace, stability, security, and love. A good night’s rest is so vital to our brain’s development, especially to the development of children. It is estimated 3% of children do not sleep in a bed. What would you do if you were to learn, that right here in our own city of Huntsville, children across the city are sleeping on floors, sharing mats with their other siblings, and have no idea what it is like to sleep in a comfortable, safe bed? Sleep in Heavenly Peace had its start like many other charities, in a garage. It was Christmas time, a time of joy and happiness, a time of giving and love, but also a time of bitter, cold weather and snowstorms. A project, that was started with the build of one bed for a single family developed into something bigger. With the wood left over from the first bunk, another idea surfaced, “Who else could benefit from this bunk?” Sleep In Heavenly Peace is a volunteer driven nonprofit organization driven to delivering handmade, fully-furnished beds to children in need. SHP’s mission is to tackle bedlessness which is estimated at 3% of the population.

G IV IN G BAC K | LOCA L SERVI CE S

The local chapter of SHP in Huntsville began in 2022. Chapter CEO Mary Ena Heath says, “In just over a year Sleep In Heavenly Peace has delivered over 350 beds, and there is currently a waiting list for over 100 beds.” It is a Saturday morning and volunteers gather to do every step of the bed making process. They cure the wood, they drill, they hammer, they put the bunks together, they make up the beds and will deliver to children ready for a good night’s sleep. Many Huntsville companies are sponsoring a ‘Build A Bed’ as well as local men’s and women’s groups, bible classes, book clubs. In 2024, Sleep In Heavenly Peace hopes to partner with high school shop classes to help meet the increasing demands for beds. Sherika Gaines, a mother who has seen first hand the positive impact of Sleep In Heavenly Peace, says, “When Sleep In Heavenly Peace delivered my children’s beds, I’m not gonna lie, I cried. They each got in their bed, all 3 of them, and started squealing, ‘This is my bed!’” Sherika has two 3 year old twin girls and a 9 year old. She continues, “I feel like Sleep In Heavenly Peace is definitely doing God’s work. For single mothers like me they give us hope. They restore a piece of our lives.” She adds, “It is nice to have a group that genuinely cares about where people are and what they need. It showed me the power of God and gave me hope when I had turned down every other avenue. Sleep In Heavenly Peace reached out willing to help without hesitation.” Sherika now plans to give back herself by volunteering to ‘Build A Bed’ whenever she can.

“Having your own bed is a source of comfort, peace, stability, security, and love. It is estimated 3% of children do not sleep in a bed.” If you would like to sponsor a ‘Build A Bed’, volunteer to help in the building process, or help deliver beds to families, visit https://shpbeds.org/chapter/ al-huntsville. You will see future dates for community ‘Build A Bed’ events and also contact information. Sleep In Heavenly Peace is a 100% volunteer funded organization. All donations stay right here in our community serving Huntsville’s children.

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The City Lifestyle

Giving Campaign

2023 86

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“

This Giving Campaign is all about personally impacting the lives of people we know with an unexpected check in the mail just to say that someone thought of them this holiday season.”

The annual City Lifestyle Giving Campaign is in its 4th year. Last holiday season we gave away over $300,000 to help 116 individuals and families in need, but we need your help to make it happen again this year. With nominations flooding in from community members and leaders such as judges, police officers, teachers, nurses, social workers, mentors and readers like you, we were able to reach people who might otherwise go unnoticed. Perhaps you know of a single parent struggling to provide for their family, an elderly person who has experienced loss, someone enduring a health issue, a co-worker suffering a sudden, unexpected tragedy or a neighbor with a financial hardship who has fallen between the cracks of getting assistance. Chances are you know someone with a specific need, even if no one else does. “We believe in giving back and serving the communities where we live in a real and tangible way,” says Steven Schowengerdt, CEO and founder of City Lifestyle. “This Giving Campaign is about personally impacting the lives of people we know with an unexpected check in the mail just to say that someone thought of them during this holiday season.” “We believe God has blessed our company with continued success, so we in turn want to be a blessing to others,” Matthew Perry, President of City Lifestyle adds. City Lifestyle has also enacted an internal giving program whereby every employee in the company receives $100 to give away to someone in the community. “The idea is to encourage our employees to keep giving on their own,” Steven says. “Taking care of one another and blessing others is truly rewarding and it perpetuates a cycle of giving. It’s extremely important to me as a person and as a company to foster a culture of generosity.”

Scan Code to

Nominate Nominations accepted Nov. 27 – Dec. 10, 2023

Follow @CityLifestyle on Instagram for reminders! To submit a nomination, follow @CityLifestyle on Instagram and fill out the form found in the bio link. All entries will be read, and because this is not a raffle, there is no need to nominate someone more than once. The amount given to each recipient will be based on need. All nominations and recipients will be kept confidential. D ECEMB ER 2 0 2 3 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM/H UN TS V I L L E

DECEMBER 2023

events A curated selection of the most intriguing upcoming events in our area. D E C E M BE R 1 ST- 3 1 ST

Galaxy Of Lights

D E C E M BE R 1 ST- 1 0 T H

A Christmas Carol

D EC E M BE R 5T H

H UN TS VILLE BOTAN ICAL GAR DE NS | 5 :30 P M Join the tradition of this winter light show with thousands of twinkling lights and displays. There are various ways to enjoy: walking, driving, dog nights, and even a 3k and 5k race.

VBC PLAY HOUS E Huntsville’s most beloved family holiday tradition returns to the Fantasy Playhouse stage for the 33rd year this December. Take a trip in time through the past, present, and future with Mr. Scrooge, three Christmas Spirits, and all the whimsical characters of London town. With more theater magic than ever before, this Charles Dickens classic will delight all ages as an inspiration to keep Christmas in our hearts all year long. $22 Adults; $17 Children 18 and under. Evening and Matinee

Holiday Magic Dinner

BURRITT MUS EUM | 6:00 PM This 30 year tradition is Burritt's longest running fundraiser. Experience the magic of the holidays on the mountain. Visit burrittonthemountain.com for more information. CONTINUED >

EVE N TS

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EVENTS CONTINUED

DECEMBER 8TH

The Nutcracker

MA R K C . S MI T H C O NC E RT H A L L V B C December heralds Huntsville Ballet's 54th production of The Nutcracker performed with The Huntsville Symphony Orchestra. Running December 8-10 visit Huntsvilleballet.org for tickets and times.

DECEMBER 9 TH

Twickenham Christmas Tour Of Homes

T WI C K E NH A M H I STO R I C DI ST R I C T | 5 :30 P M Held Saturday December 9th in coordination with the Twickenham Luminaries 5-9pm. Tickets are $20 per adult and $5 per child. Tickets can be purchased at Harrison Brothers Hardware, Brooks&Collier, The Greenery, and the Convention and Visitor's Bureau. This year's homes include: • 310 White Circle • 416 McClung Avenue • 410 Lincoln Street • 415 Locust Avenue • The Weeden House 300 Gates Avenue

DECEMBER 15TH

Mean Girls

MA R K C . S MI T H C O NC E RT H A L L V B C | 7 :0 0 P M Tina Fey's award-winning Broadway musical comes to Huntsville and is sure to be a favorite among women of all ages.

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