Issuu

MUM & ME MERCANTILE OWNER • LHS CAREER COACH • SEC FOOTBALL TOWNS

RHYTHM OF LIFE

AN INSIDE LOOK AT THE MUSIC ROOM

PRESS PAWS LCS FACILITY DOG EASES STUDENTS

FALL 2026 LeedsLivingMagazine.com Volume 2 | Issue 3 $4.95

FRIGHT NIGHT

ATROX FACTORY STRIVES TO ENTERTAIN THROUGH FEAR

LeedsLivingMagazine.com 1

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Dinner & Drinks Beautiful Views Live Music by:

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FEATURES

EERIE ENTERTAINMENT Atrox Factory owner Paul Johnson strives to improve the entertainment level of the attraction each year.

38 HIT THE ROAD

TOUCHDOWN TOWNS With autumn months comes the South’s Saturday ritual of tuning in to their favorite college team’s football games. This year, hit the road and experience the game day atmosphere live and in person at one of these SEC college towns.

44 ANTIQUING GUIDE Looking for a new, old favorite piece? Check out this guide for places to go antique shopping throughout the area.

2 Fall 2026

PHOTO BY BRIAN COLLINS | ATOMIC PICTURES

SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

PHOTO BY AMANDA E.H. PRITCHARD

arts & culture

13 Notes on Life: The Music Room’s Guiding Purpose 20 Read this Book: Leeds Library Staff’s Top Language-Learning Reads

schools & sports

21 What a Trooper: LCS Facility Dog Trooper 28 Five Questions For: Catrice Thomas, Leeds High School Career Coach

in every issue 4 Contributors 5 From the Editor 6 The Question 8 Instagram 9 The Guide 46 Out & About 56 My Leeds

LeedsLivingMagazine.com 3

contributors EDITORIAL

Michaela Bankston Anna Grace Breedlove Dave Domescik Avery Forrest Andrew Simonson Madison Smith Noah Wortham

CONTRIBUTORS

Amber Helms Amanda E.H. Pritchard Angie Ruiz Kelsea Schafer

DESIGN

Sydney Allen Jamie Dawkins Morgan Lockhart Lavens Maginnis Miles Maginnis

Amanda E.H. Pritchard, Writer and Photographer

Amanda is Southern with a twist! Her zest for life comes through in her conversational style of writing and photography. From her days reporting for hyper-local newspapers, to writing for regional magazines and national radio networks as well as creating social media content, Amanda’s happiest crafting clever quips and capturing those just-right moments. She enjoys conveying stories because everyone’s got a tale to tell. Over the past 20 years, Amanda has photographed presidential hopefuls, a former assistant district attorney trying his hand as an extra on the hit show “Nashville” and helped business owners feature their finest products.

Amber Helms, Photographer

Amber Helms is the owner of Amber Helms Photography, located in the downtown district of Leeds. A wife and mother of two girls, ages 10 and 6, Amber has been a full-time photographer since 2017. She specializes in weddings, newborns, family and senior sessions, with a focus on capturing genuine moments and timeless imagery. Deeply rooted in her community, she and her family are often found volunteering at local high school football games and supporting events throughout the Moody area. For bookings and inquiries, email amberhelmsphotography@gmail.com, or find her on Facebook (Amber Helms Photography) or Instagram (@ amberhelmsphotos).

MARKETING

Noah Brakefield Evann Campbell Octavia Campbell Rachel Henderson Junaid Khan Rhett McCreight Lauren Morris Tori Smith

Angie Ruiz, Photographer

Until graduation this past May, Angie Ruiz was the head photographer for the Hewitt-Trussville High School yearbook staff with a focus on candids and sports, but she recently branched out to portrait photography. Outside of photography, she loves to go to concerts and movie theaters and play video games. In fall 2026, she plans to attend the University of Alabama as a creative media major. Her work can be found on Instagram at @angierphoto.

ADMINISTRATION Amanda Boothe Carlee Chappell Mary Jo Eskridge Alec Etheredge Stacey Meadows Kayla Reeves Leslie Reeves Jennifer Robertson Brittany Schofield

Kelsea Schafer, Photographer

Kelsea is a student at the University of Alabama, pursuing a news media degree in the College of Communications and Information Sciences. Her passion lies in capturing moments, telling the story and preserving memories. When not in class, she can be found photographing Alabama athletics, spending time with her family and friends or at the lake with her dog, Riley. Kelsea’s work can be found at kelseaschaferphotos.com and on social media @kelseaschaferphotos.

Leeds Living Magazine is published quarterly by Shelby County Newspapers Inc., P.O. Box 947, Columbiana, AL 35051. Leeds Living Magazine is a registered trademark. All contents herein are the sole property of Shelby County Newspapers Inc. [the Publisher]. No part of this periodical may be reproduced without written permission from the Publisher. Please address all correspondence (including but not limited to letters, story ideas and requests to reprint materials) to: Editor, Leeds Living Magazine, P.O. Box 947, Columbiana, AL 35051. Leeds Living Magazine is mailed to select households throughout Leeds, and a limited number of free copies are available at local businesses. Please visit LeedsLivingMagazine.com for a list of those locations. Subscriptions are available at a rate of $14.95 plus tax for one year by visiting LeedsLivingMagazine.com or calling (205) 669-3131, ext. 532. Advertising inquiries may be made by emailing advertise@shelbycountyreporter.com, or by calling (205) 669-3131, ext. 536.

4 Fall 2026

from the editor

ON THE COVER

Fall is my favorite season. The cooler but not cold temperatures, jumping back into a (school) routine, all things pumpkin flavored, the anticipation for the coming holidays and of course, football season—I love them all. Most notably absent from that list is anything to do with the spookier side of the season. I’ve never had a particular interest in horror movies or enjoyed the idea of being scared, and as it turns out, that’s something I have in common with Paul Johnson, owner of Atrox Factory. You’ll have to flip to page 29 to find out much more, but what Paul does enjoy is entertaining others. As the owner of the Southeast’s largest indoor haunted attraction, I find it so intriguing and inspiring that his motivation isn’t a personal love of all things scary but the recognition of others’ admiration for it. After all, if we all had the same interests, life would be quite boring, and I think there is a certain beauty in watching someone else enjoy and excel in something you can’t or don’t want to do. Beyond entertaining, Leeds City Schools Facility Dog Trooper (page 21) and his owner, Officer Bob Talley, are there for students when they need to feel more at ease. While Trooper is trained to comfort people, he still loves to have a good time and enjoys attending P.E. with the students. At The Music Room (page 13), Mark and Alaina Lucas share their love of music to provide others with both ease and enjoyment. While music is a common form of entertainment, it is also known for its healing properties. I hope this issue inspires you to combat both stress and boredom this season even if only a little bit at a time. Find something you like to do, or something someone else likes to do, and do it for that reason. Many of us, or maybe it’s just me, have put having fun at the bottom of our to do list where we never get to it, and in turn, we find ourselves more stressed over life. Put having fun back on your to do list this fall. Take it easy, Michaela Bankston michaela@leedslivingmagazine.com

Fright Night

Atrox Factory owner Paul Johnson strives to entertain people through the frightful attraction. Photo by Brian Collins | Atomic Pictures Design by Miles Maginnis

michaela@leedslivingmagazine.com

LeedsLivingMagazine.com 5

“ ” THE QUESTION

What’s the best game day food?

Rotel dip

- 411 Kids Foundation

Buffalo chicken dip! - Amber Helms

Lil’ smokies!

- Ashley Michelle

7 Layer Dip and corn chips - Donna Gardner Hartley

6 Fall 2026

Wings

- Jessica Echols

Chips and salsa with a cold beer. - Jimmy Morrison

Homemade cheese dip with all the fixins’!

- Kathy Ponder Lemmon

Sausage balls

- Stephen Lunsford

LeedsLivingMagazine.com 7

@leeds.living

Tag us in your Leeds photos on Instagram, and we’ll pick our favorites to regram and publish on this page in each issue.

@earthbornpottery Huge THANK YOU for everyone who supports @earthbornpottery and allows this artist’s dream come true. What makes Earthborn Pottery unique is the heart behind each piece of pottery.

@erin_m_hollis Patriotic Pup-Honey is ready for America’s 250th!

@maegangetshealthy It is truly such an honor to be voted the first Community Champion for Leeds. I absolutely love this little town and the community we’ve created here, and pouring into it so it’s somewhere our kids want to stay forever just makes sense to me!

8 Fall 2026

@theredbarnal Summer intern highlight: Eva Tucker is a kinesiology student at UAB, a Birmingham resident, and an all-around horse lover. With a passion for horses and children with disabilities, Eva decided to spend her summer at The Red Barn. You have been a joy to have, and we are so thankful to have you on the team!

THE GUIDE

HIGH SCHOOL FLAG FOOTBALL

SEPTEMBER & OCTOBER Flag football kicked off the last week of August and continues this month and through October. To stay up to date, follow the team on Instagram (@leedsflagfootball), and see their remaining schedule below.

SEPT. 3: at Springville SEPT. 10: at Talladega SEPT. 15: Tri-match at Anniston SEPT. 16: at Wenonah SEPT. 17: at Midfield SEPT. 22: at Pell City SEPT. 24: at Fairfield SEPT. 29: Tri-match at Home OCT. 1: at Moody OCT. 6: vs. I3 Academy OCT. 8: at Hueytown OCT. 15: at Carver OCT. 20: vs. Springville OCT. 29: vs. Talladega LeedsLivingMagazine.com 9

THE GUIDE AROUND TOWN SEPT. 12 Magic City Octane The Shops of Grand River SEPT. 18 Butterfly Banquet Cedar Grove Baptist Church SEPT. 19 Dolores Hydock Leeds Arts Council SEPT. 20 Tea Party Grand River Pickers

SEPTEMBER & OCTOBER

Varsity Football 7 P.M.

Football season is back! The regular season will continue through the end of next month. The annual Battle of the

SEPT. 4: at Sylacauga SEPT. 11: vs. Central Clay County SEPT. 18: at Anniston SEPT. 25: OPEN OCT. 2: vs. Moody OCT. 9: at Jacksonville

SEPT. 25 Motors on Main Downtown Leeds Bridge returns to Homer Smiles Field at the beginning of October. To stay up to date, follow the team on Instagram (@leedsftbl) and X (@LeedsFTBL), and see their remaining schedule below.

OCT. 16: vs. Alexandria OCT. 23: at Lincoln OCT. 30: at John Carroll

SEPT. 12

We Love Leeds Day 2 P.M. Downtown Leeds We Love Leeds Day returns on Sept. 12, starting at 2 p.m. with a vendor market, live music, kids’ zone and food trucks. At 6 p.m., there will be a community pep rally, followed by a 5K Glow Run at 7 p.m. For more information, visit leedsmainstreet.com. Share your news and events! Email submissions to Michaela@ShelbyCountyNewsmedia.com to be considered for our next issue. 10 Fall 2026

SEPT. 26 Fall Festival & Pumpkin Patch Kickoff Howard Family Holiday Farm SEPT. 27 Railyard Fest Rails and Ales OCT. 1-11 “Into the Woods” Leeds Arts Council OCT. 9-11 Barber Vintage Festival Barber Motorsports Park OCT. 9 Motorcycles by Moonlight Barber Vintage Motorsports Museum OCT. 10 All Tricks No Treats The Shops of Grand River OCT. 10 Leeds Invitational-Leeds High School Cross Country Leeds Memorial Park OCT. 10 Magic City Octane The Shops of Grand River

THE GUIDE OCT. 23 Motors on Main Downtown Leeds OCT. 24 Monster Mash Dash The Shops of Grand River

SEPTEMBER & OCTOBER

High School Volleyball

OCT. 25 Bluegrass at the Barn The Red Barn

Volleyball season continues this month. Senior night is set for Oct. 5 before wrapping up the regular season a few days later. To stay up to date, follow the team on Instagram (@lhsgreen wavevolleyball), and see their remaining schedule below.

NOV. 7 Valor Fest Downtown Leeds NOV. 14 A Grand River Christmas The Shops of Grand River NOV. 14 Magic City Octane The Shops of Grand River NOV. 27 Grand River’s Golden Ornament Hunt The Shops of Grand River

SEPT. 1: Tri-match at Lincoln SEPT. 3: vs. Ramsay SEPT. 14: at Montevallo SEPT. 21: Tri-match at Tuscaloosa County SEPT. 22: Tri-match at Home SEPT. 24: at Woodlawn SEPT. 26: Corner Classic (Varsity)

SEPT. 26: Pell City Tournament (Junior Varsity) SEPT. 29: vs. Center Point OCT. 1: at Shades Valley OCT. 5: vs. Lincoln (Senior Night) OCT. 6: vs. Moody OCT. 8: Tri-match at Alexandria

LeedsLivingMagazine.com 11

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&CULTURE

ARTS

NOTES ON LIFE

The Music Room invites music into the facets of everyday life by providing music lessons. BY AMANDA BOOTHE PHOTOS BY AMBER HELMS LeedsLivingMagazine.com 13

For more than a decade, a local business has been making music a part of everyday life in downtown Leeds. More than a place simply for lessons, it has become a space where music is taught, shared and woven into the lives of friends, neighbors and families throughout a tight-knit community. Founded in 2013 by musician and percussionist Mark Lucas, who is from the Leeds-Moody area, The Music Room began as little more than a small lesson studio. From those humble beginnings, it has since grown into a thriving musical education business dedicated to expanding the cultural footprint of its community. Today, the studio offers an expansive list of private instruction opportunities in piano, voice, drums, guitar, bass guitar, banjo and ukulele, while also taking its programs beyond the studio walls to serve local organizations throughout the region. “We serve approximately 100 families in studio each year in addition to providing music

14 Fall 2026

programs throughout the week,” Lucas said. “Our mission is to make music accessible as we feel that music is such an important part of the human experience.” Looking back, the idea began as something much smaller in scale. Rewinding to 2013, Lucas was already making a living as a percussionist, songwriter and musician who regularly traveled for work. While bouncing between recording studios in Nashville and Atlanta, Lucas began looking for a base closer to home, somewhere he could teach music when he returned to Alabama. “There weren’t any lessons studios in the area,” he said. “So, I opened up a small studio near the Leeds Arts Council with the

help of my sister, Jessica, offering lessons, camps and art classes.” Over the next few years, what began as a small studio that offered music lessons, camps and art classes organically grew and became an established fixture of the local community. Before long, the public attention and demand outgrew the little space beside the arts council and urged them to relocate to a larger location, a process that would happen multiple times but never lead them away from Downtown Leeds. In 2018, his wife, Alaina Lucas, joined the business. A musician herself, she now helps oversee studio operations in addition to her teaching. Together, the couple has built The Music Room into what it is today, an institution that spreads the belief that music should be accessible to everyone. “The community feedback has been fantastic,” Mark said. “Leeds is a very tight-knit community, and that’s really visible here in the

studio. Even through COVID, people rallied for us, and we were able to make it through. We are so blessed to be in this community.” That sense of community is also reflected in the people who teach at The Music Room. The studio has always experienced low turnover among both instructors and students, with many of its teachers actively participating in the broader Leeds community. “Most of our teachers are active participants in the community who play local shows, perform in musicals at the Leeds Arts Council, teach at local schools and do community storytimes at the bookstore down the street,” Lucas said. As for the students, The Music Room has now been part of their lives for nearly as long as they can remember. Now in its 13th year of operation, many children began taking lessons in kindergarten and have stayed with the program, growing alongside the

LeedsLivingMagazine.com 15

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studio as they develop their musical abilities. “A good number of our students have effectively grown up here,” Mark said, “I can think of a few right now who are in high school and have been at our studio since they were in kindergarten.” In addition to their typical classes, Mark has also worked with those with special needs in the Greater Birmingham Area since before The Music Room’s founding. That work eventually led to the development of The Music Room’s neuro-inclusive music initiative, which recognizes that music education can and should take many forms. Specifically, their programs focus on improving fine and gross motor skills, social skills and music education in an engaging and enjoyable way that is tailored specifically to each student. To benefit the largest number of students possible, The Music

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LeedsLivingMagazine.com 17

18 Fall 2026

Room has even partnered with various nonprofit organizations which focus on helping those with special needs and school systems to bring the music where students are comfortable and already receive services and education. Through this initiative, the studio provides programming for organizations like The Arc of Central Alabama, the Allan Cott School and Glenwood Journey Academy. The studio also offers a limited number of one-onone spots for students with more significant needs. While the business has also grown to include regular instruction at The Grove School, its purpose has remained remarkably consistent. That purpose was detailed by Alaina for the business’s website back in 2018 and still guides the founding philosophy of The Music Room. It reads as follows: “Music can be heard at every birthday party and at every Christmas. It’s there when you feel your first heartbreak, have your first dance, and it’s in your lullabies as you rock your first child to sleep. Music accompanies and communicates our most precious memories, most profound

pains and our greatest joys. At The Music Room, we believe that music is essential to the human experience; broadening horizons, skill building and enriching the mind. Everyone can benefit from having a little more soul, a little more excitement and a little more music in their lives.” For the Lucas family, while the scope of the Music Room has certainly grown, the mission has never changed. The goal is not simply to teach someone how to play a specific instrument or read a sheet of music. It is to help people experience the broader role music can play in their lives. More than a decade after first opening the doors of a small studio, The Music Room has since grown into a place that reaches far beyond the lessons themselves. It has become a place where children grow up, families connect, instructors contribute to the community and people from all walks of life can find a way into the music. For The Music Room, that is the real lesson, music is not simply something to be learned; it is something to be lived.

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LeedsLivingMagazine.com 19

ARTS & CULTURE

READ THIS BOOK

Learn Something New Recommendations from

Leeds Jane Culbreth Library Staff

While the library staff likes to provide recommendations for good stories, they also like to provide learning opportunities. Bearing that in mind, the following recommendations represent different kinds of materials available in the Language Learning Collection at the library. In order to complement these items, the library now provides access to Mango Languages, which provides foreign language, sign language and child-focused learning.

New Penguin Parallel Text Short Stories in French

Edited By Richard Coward | Fiction When learning a new language, one of the hardest parts is constantly having to translate new words or figuring out the context of words in written text. This type of book is one way to make this easier. The English translation is on the opposite page, so one can easily read in French and subsequently read the English translation. This speeds up the process of understanding. Classic books such as “Don Quixote” are also available in this parallel format to either help with learning or to deepen understanding of the text.

Complete Spanish Step by Step

By Barbara Bregstein | Textbook “Complete Spanish Step by Step,” a more traditional textbook meant for language learning, is one of many like it available at the library. As these types of books are mostly intended for an educational environment, this book is best for people looking to either homeschool their children or to supplement their education at home. If that’s the goal, the library is a great place to browse options for teaching a new language.

Filipino (Tagalog) Phrasebook and Dictionary

By Lonely Planet | Foreign Language Study Filipino (Tagalog) is one of several language phrasebook & dictionaries by Lonely Planet. These small, portable books are well-suited for travel or brief conversations with acquaintances and not necessarily for in-depth language acquisition. Their small size and handy reference phrases make them ideal for providing communication help in a pinch. Visit the library to check out this one or see the selection of other language offerings.

Korean for K-Pop and K-Drama Fans

By Soohee Kim and Emily Curtis | Foreign Language Study Sometimes, language learning is driven by people’s passions and interests. Whether it is to get the newest manga straight from the source, to access works only available in another language or to simply gain a deeper understanding of one’s favorite things, the love of cultural products can provide motivation to learn. This book, focused on K-Pop and K-Drama, provides something of a back door to people interested in this media to gain a functional understanding of the Korean language. For those with an interest in the subject and learning the language, the combination offered in this book is an effective way to stay engaged.

The Essential Homeschool Preschool and Pre-K Workbook

By Hayley Lewallen | Educational Resource The library’s language learning collection is not solely focused on learning foreign languages but also on encouraging language acquisition in children. While this book is geared toward homeschoolers, the kinds of activities contained therein can be useful to anyone looking to complement their child’s education.

20 Fall 2026

SCHOOL

&SPORTS

WHAT A TROOPER

LCS Facility Dog Trooper loves to have fun with and comfort students. BY AMANDA E.H. PRITCHARD PHOTOS BY AMANDA E.H. PRITCHARD & CONTRIBUTED LeedsLivingMagazine.com 21

Leeds City Schools is celebrating education and community by introducing one of its newest employees—Trooper. A golden retriever who recently turned one, Trooper is a service/therapy dog that is helping not only students but educators throughout the school system. The idea surfaced when School Resource Officer Bob Talley and his wife were led to adopt Trooper by their daughter, Missy Holland. Education is in the family’s bloodline as Holland and her mom are educators alongside Talley and Trooper. “My wife taught 37 years at Briarwood, 10 years at

22 Fall 2026

Leeds and still tutors two days a week now,” Talley said. With hearts for service, Trooper was adopted by a family born to lead. Visiting schools throughout the school system, Trooper is proud to be an “official” LCS employee where his main assignment is guarding Greenies, which makes him smile. “A lot of kids don’t have pets at home; Trooper serves as all our students’ pet,” said Gina Ragan, assistant to the superintendent at LCS. “I know he makes my day when he comes in.” When Ragan met Trooper, it was love at first sight.

“I fell in love right away being such a dog lover,” she said. “The way he responds to people, he can sense if something is wrong. I’m not sure if that’s instinct or his training, but he has such a sweet spirit.” There are numerous stories about Trooper spreading joy, creating connection and bringing people together throughout the school system. One that stands out for Talley is an instance when they visited Leeds High School. “I’m not exactly sure what was going on, but when we came into the school, a young lady was distraught and in tears,” he said. “After spending some time with

LeedsLivingMagazine.com 23

Trooper, by the time we left, she was all smiles.” Trooper also comforted a student with special needs, who he saw laying in the floor. He simply laid down next to the student, and the student started petting him. “We are very careful when going into the schools since everyone does not like dogs,” Talley said. “Trooper has won over non-dog lovers though because he just likes being with the kids, administrators and teachers.” For Ragan, a favorite memory is seeing Trooper relaxed while he eagerly awaited the seniors to do their walk-through at Leeds Elementary School days before graduation. “They’re his kids,” Ragan said. “It was so cute to see him waiting for them so patiently. He was also excited for their graduation.” The seniors loved and enjoyed Trooper so much they threw him an end of the year party at LHS right before graduation, so they could all commemorate the occasion. Including therapy dogs in school systems can have

24 Fall 2026

a great impact because dogs such as Trooper help students, faculty and staff reduce stress and alleviate anxiety. They can also provide social-emotional support and growth and assist in improving academic motivation. Known for their sensitivity, golden retrievers are popular breeds for service and therapy dogs due to them being highly intelligent, having a great demeanor and stature, exhibiting a relaxed state and encompassing an eager-to-please temperament. “This breed of dog is really good with kids and real teachable,” Talley said. “Bringing in Trooper as the Leeds City Schools service/therapy dog is also a good way for me to stay in touch with the students, educators and administrators since I am retired, but still work two days a week.” Dedicating 30 years of his career to serving as a police officer, Talley has served 20 years in school systems, 12 of those years as a school resource officer with LCS.

“Trooper has won over non-dog lovers though because he just likes being with the kids, administrators and teachers.” -Bob Talley Alongside Talley, Trooper proudly serves as the official facility dog for LCS wearing police badge number 2052299656. It’s been a big year for Trooper. He began a new career with LCS. Then, on June 9, he celebrated his first birthday with a dog-friendly cake. In the afterglow of all the success Trooper has achieved in his first year of life, Talley chuckled when he said, “The only bad thing about Trooper is he sheds, while later adding, “His great achievement is he’s here to make you feel good.” As for who hired Trooper, Talley credited the LCS Board of Education for making it happen. Additionally, Ragan expressed gratitude for Leeds Police Chief Paul Irwin allowing Trooper to make his rounds through the schools and ride

in a Leeds patrol car. To prepare for his assignment, Trooper went through a 12-week course with Three Dimensional Dog Training and earned his certificate of completion on Jan. 22. The training included a special exercise where Trooper had to halt at the front door of a gymnasium but was tempted by bouncing balls and shrills of excitement from the kids playing inside. Trooper also sits on command, visits the court system to comfort people and checks in at the police department. However, his favorite thing is school gymnasiums. “He loves the gym,” Talley said. “One of his favorite things to do is go to P.E. at the middle school and high school. Trooper loves to play.” LeedsLivingMagazine.com 25

While he loves the gym and playing, he is also well loved. At home, the Talleys take care of Trooper, but his colleagues and the students at the schools also cherish him. “He’s definitely the most popular man on campus,” said LCS Superintendent John Moore. Looking forward to continuing his love for play in the new school year, Trooper is a tremendous Greenwave fan and is excited to cheer on the football team as they face opponents on the gridiron once again this fall.

Are you searching for the perfect venue for an upcoming event?

The Leeds Depot and Rowan Oaks are available for event rental. For details, availability, and to reserve either venue please contact LHS at 205-571-1812 or visit our website, LeedsHistoricalSociety.org.

Preserving the Cornerstones of our Past 26 Fall 2026

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SCHOOL & SPORTS

FIVE QUESTIONS FOR

Catrice Thomas Leeds High School Career Coach PHOTO CONTRIBUTED

Catrice Thomas attended the Alabama School of Fine Arts before earning a bachelor’s degree in business and marketing education from North Carolina State University. She also earned a master’s degree in curriculum and instruction from North Carolina State and an education specialist master’s from Auburn University. She has worked in education for 22 years, teaching computer science for 17 and being a career coach for the past 5. This is her 13th year with Leeds City Schools. What led you to your career in education? I’ve always wanted to be a teacher. Originally, I wanted to teach math, but calculus 2 changed my mind. I switched to business and marketing because I love finance and management and how it not only connects to career but your personal life as well. What does a day in your life look like as a career coach? It really depends on the time or year. Right now, I’m having planning meetings with seniors, making sure all students are set up for Dual Enrollment and prepping for career assessments with 6th-12th graders. We also had our first college tour in late August. What is your favorite/most-rewarding part of your job? Although we spend time talking about 28 Fall 2026

specific careers, my favorite part is working with all students on those “essential (soft) skills” that everyone needs to be successful in life regardless of the career title. I love to see students walking in integrity, holding themselves accountable, taking initiative and communicating effectively, all so they can be creative, critical thinkers and problem solvers. What is the most challenging part of your job? Logistically-scheduling. Organizing meetings with students and families is tough because of different schedules. Fortunately, we have been able to add evening office hours and virtual meetings throughout the year to help out. Mentally-Getting students to be brave. So many are fearful of a potential negative outcome, they become stuck and won’t even try. I tell them that I’m here to “un-knot

their nots,” so they can see their potential and unlock their greatness if they have faith and work their plan. What would you like people to know about your job that many do not already know? Although most of my time is spent at the high school, I have the opportunity to work with all students in the district. I may read a book about careers at the primary school or participate in career day at the elementary school. I’ll play The Game of Life at the middle school or help students with interview skills at the high school. I like to say that I’m a partner that they will have throughout their time in the district. I’ll open the door as they come in and hold it open as they go out. The most important thing to note is that the door is always open.

Eer ie

E NT ER T AIN M EN T Atrox Factory owner Paul Johnson strives to improve the entertainment level of the attraction each year.

By Amanda Boothe | Photos by Brian Collins|Atomic Pictures

LeedsLivingMagazine.com 29

30 Fall 2026

For more than two decades, visitors have traveled to Leeds every fall in search of screams, elaborate sets and unforgettable scares at Atrox Factory. Behind one of Alabama’s best-known haunted attractions is a story less about horror and more about family, creativity and an unwavering commitment to evolving the guest experience. Owner Paul Johnson did not set out to build one of the nation’s top-ranked haunted attractions. In fact, he admits horror was not even a passion in the beginning. “I never was a big horror movie fan,” Johnson said. Instead, his journey began in the early 1990s volunteering with Jaycees’ haunted house productions, where he acted, built sets and discovered that entertaining people through fear could be surprisingly rewarding. “It was just kind of interesting,” he said, “I just thought that was a cool thing that was fun, scaring people.” The hobby turned into something much bigger after a conversation with a Moody police officer about how kids need more fun things to do around the community. The officer proceeded to show him an abandoned property that became Slain Manor, the group’s first haunted attraction. Within a few years, its popularity exploded. “People were walking a mile to get to that place,” Johnson said. “We built a reputation.” When the property was lost in 2000, the team searched for a new home before purchasing the former Solomon Trouser Factory in Leeds, where Atrox Factory opened in 2002. The transition was not easy, and the first year brought difficulty. However, the fanbase followed. “The first year was tough,” Johnson said. “We had such a huge fan base with Slain Manor. I knew they would follow.”

“

I never was a big horror movie fan.

”

– Paul Johnson

Today, the once-abandoned industrial building has been transformed into a sprawling haunted attraction that continues to reinvent itself year after year. While many haunted attractions recycle the same layouts each fall, Atrox treats every season like a new production. “If I see something one year that doesn’t work, it’ll get ripped out and changed,” Johnson said. Planning is a full-time gig, often beginning for the following year before the current season opens. “I am already planning what we are going to do next year,” he said. “I already know what we are doing for 2027.” Instead of waiting until summer to begin construction, Atrox now spends months designing custom sets and ordering large-scale pieces that often arrive early in the year. Some individual sets represent investments ranging from $70,000 to more than $300,000. “You want to feel like you’re walking into a movie, and that is the experience we want them to leave with,” Johnson said. Guests will also notice increasingly sophisticated masks and costumes. While earlier years relied on inexpensive latex masks, today’s custom, silicone creations can cost thousands of dollars.

LeedsLivingMagazine.com 31

For Johnson, the tight-knit group working with him keeps the business thriving behind the scenes. “It’s really a second family,” he said. Many of the makeup artists, builders, actors, safety personnel and organizers have been with Atrox since the beginning. “Everybody that comes up here, we just consider them part of a family,” he said. “The people that have been with us, they’ve been here since we first got here.” That family atmosphere extends beyond employees. Over the years, Atrox has welcomed more than 140 horror celebrities for guest appearances, including actors known for portraying iconic horror characters. The idea came after attending an industry convention. Since then, Atrox has hosted a long list of horror icons. In selecting them, Johnson said the key isn’t simply booking famous guests, it is making sure they are good with fans. “You don’t want to get somebody in here that’s not good to the fans,” he said. “If they don’t have a good experience, it reflects on us.” Southern hospitality has helped build those relationships. “Our reputation has really gone over and above that,” he said. “They always want to come back.” Despite all the attention paid to scares, elaborate

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34 Fall 2026

scenery and special effects, Johnson insisted Atrox’s top priority isn’t fear. “The first thing that comes to the top of the list is safety,” he said. That philosophy became especially important during the COVID-19 pandemic when Atrox overhauled its operations with timed ticketing, enhanced sanitation and additional health protocols. “We overcame, and it made us better,” Johnson said. Many of those practices remain today. Every costume is washed nightly, and masks are sanitized after use. Backstage areas are cleaned daily, and air treatment systems are used throughout the attraction.

Choose Your Scare Atrox Factory’s regular hours beginning Oct. 2 are 6:30-11 p.m. on Fridays and Saturdays and 6:30-10 p.m. on Sundays, Wednesdays and Thursdays.

WANT LESS SCARE? Oct. 14 the factory is open 7-10 p.m. for a child-friendly night without actors.

WANT MORE SCARE? The last two nights of the fall season, Oct. 31 and Nov. 1, Atrox is turning out the lights from 6:30-10 p.m.

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“I am obsessed with keeping things clean,” he said. Johnson also encourages families to research other haunted attractions before visiting. “Make sure these people have safety protocols in place,” he said. “Make sure they have been inspected.” Although Atrox is designed to create fictional fear, the building itself has developed a reputation for unexplained experiences. Johnson said paranormal investigators have visited the site over the years and reported unsettling encounters. He described stories involving unexplained sounds, strange feelings and reports from investigators who believed they sensed multiple spirits inside the building. “I could feel something, especially in different places in here, and everybody does, like somebody is watching you,” he said. Whether visitors believe those stories or not, they have become another intriguing chapter in the building’s long history. As Halloween approaches each year, Atrox opens for its seasonal run before transforming into its winter attraction, Atroxmas, complete with entirely different scenery, characters, music, scents and themes. Even after decades of operating haunted attractions, Johnson said the greatest reward isn’t hearing screams; it is watching people enjoy themselves. “Our ultimate goal every year is to entertain,” he said. He and his team often monitor security cameras, not to catch frightened guests, but to see their reactions to newly built sets and carefully planned surprises. “We are hoping things work that we create over nine plus months,” he said. “We are up here working.” Ultimately, Atrox isn’t simply about making people afraid. “We’re here to entertain our guests,” Johnson said. “Whether they’re laughing, crying or screaming, you want to make sure they’re entertained.” After nearly 40 years in the haunted attraction industry, that philosophy remains unchanged. Behind every elaborate set, every carefully crafted costume and every perfectly timed scare is a team committed to creating an experience guests will remember long after Halloween has passed. Atrox Factory opens this season on Oct. 2. For more information or to purchase tickets, visit at atroxfactory.com.

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HIT THE ROAD

Touchdown Towns

38 Fall 2026

Where will your weekends take you this fall? With autumn months comes the South’s Saturday ritual of tuning in to their favorite college team’s football games. This year, hit the road and experience the game day atmosphere live and in person. Let this guide help you plan your trip to a nearby college town and read on for details and traditions of several Southeastern Conference (SEC) teams. By Kate Seaver | Photos by Avery Bane-Tennessee Athletics, Hunter Peacock, Jason Homan, Rachel Carswell/ Visit Auburn-Opelika, Steven Bearden Photography, The Bell Hotel, UGA Sports Communications, Visit Auburn-Opelika, Visit Knoxville, Visit Oxford MS, Visit Starkville & Visit Tuscaloosa LeedsLivingMagazine.com 39

HIT THE ROAD

Bryant-Denny Stadium

TUSCALOOSA Closest to the greater Birmingham area is the University of Alabama, located in Tuscaloosa. Although their mascot Big Al is an elephant, they’re more commonly known as the Crimson Tide. The Tide play at Bryant-Denny Stadium, with over 100,000 seats that fans regularly fill up. Dress to represent the team with the classic crimson and white school colors or houndstooth print, popularized by former coach Paul “Bear” Bryant, and learn the song “Dixieland Delight” to feel right at home. For a convenient accommodation close to the action, stay at the Hotel Capstone, which is currently rebranding to Graduate by Hilton. The hotel is located on campus and within walking distance of the stadium. Dine at Avenue Pub for traditional American fare, or try the Thai nachos or pepper jelly chicken sandwich. Need a break from the action? Walk along The Riverwalk, the paved trail along the Black Warrior River near downtown.

40 Fall 2026

Avenue Pub

The Riverwalk

Hotel Capstone

Jordan-Hare Stadium

AUBURN The next closest SEC destination is the Loveliest Village on the Plains, Auburn University. Just about two hours away from the Birmingham area, the Auburn Tigers play in Jordan-Hare Stadium. Their loud chants of War Eagle originated with an eagle of a Civil War veteran that became their symbol of good luck. Official school colors are orange and navy blue. Stay a short walk away from the stadium at The Collegiate Hotel, a former Auburn dorm renovated by alumni. For a good meal to fuel up before the game, visit the classic Toomer’s Drugs on the corner between campus and downtown. Founded as a drug store in 1896, the establishment Toomer’s Drugs

now serves fresh lemonade, food, ice cream and Auburn memorabilia.

Toomer’s Corner

If the Tigers win, be prepared for the classic tradition of rolling Toomer’s Corner with toilet paper hanging from the tree branches. The Collegiate Hotel

LeedsLivingMagazine.com 41

HIT THE ROAD Davis Wade Stadium

STARKVILLE Less than two and half hours from Birmingham are the Mississippi State Bulldogs in Starkville, Mississippi, occasionally referred to by the nickname, StarkVegas. The Bulldogs play at Davis Wade Stadium in their classic school colors of maroon and white. Mississippi State’s most iconic traditions include the cowbells ringing in victory and the chant of their fight song and slogan, “Hail State.” For a quaint hotel in walking distance from everything on campus and in town, stay at the restored Hotel Chester. Eat some fabulous barbecue at Two Brothers Smoked Meats, where every meal is a hit, especially the pulled pork sandwich.

Hotel Chester

Two Brothers Smoked Meats

OXFORD

Just under three hours from Birmingham is the town of Oxford, Mississippi, home of the University of Mississippi “Ole Miss” Rebels. The Rebels play at Vaught-Hemingway Stadium. Before donning cardinal red and navy blue, learn the words to the “Hotty Toddy” chant. Before kickoff, the entire stadium will lock arms and sway as they sing “Come With Me.”

Vaught-Hemingway Stadium

Bouré

42 Fall 2026

Have a Creole-inspired dinner at Bouré, and eat shrimp and grits and jambalaya on the large balcony overlooking the historic Square. Also located in the Square, The Oliver Hotel is the perfect place to stay on your Oxford visit.

ATHENS

The Bell

Only three and a half hours from Birmingham is Athens, Georgia, home of the University of Georgia Bulldogs. The Dawgs play at Sanford Stadium among a large sea of fans clothed in the school colors of red and black.

Paloma Park

Right before kickoff, point to the trumpeter from the band playing “Battle Hymn of the Bulldog Nation.” After a major win, head to the Chapel Bell as the fans continue an old tradition of ringing the bell throughout the night. For a unique stay close to campus, try The Bell hotel, originally a phone and telegraph building from 1916. While in Athens, make sure to try Taqueria Del Sol and taste the enchiladas and house margarita. Another fun dinner option is Paloma Park for Tex-Mex and live music.

Sanford Stadium

knoxville Farthest from Birmingham on this roundup, but close to many hearts, is the University of Tennessee Volunteers, in Knoxville, Tennessee. The Vols are around four hours away, but the drive is worth seeing the iconic checkered end zones at Neyland Stadium.

The Volunteers’ live mascot is Smokey the bluetick coonhound. Make sure to learn the words to “Rocky Top,” as it will play after each touchdown every game. For the ultimate Tennessee experience, stay at the Graduate Knoxville to fully

get in the mood for your game day. Try eating at Sunspot on the edge of campus for a Southwestern, Caribbean and Latin American meal and daily drink specials. While you’re in town, hit up Knoxville’s Market Square for shops and other restaurants.

Neyland Stadium Sunspot

Market Square

LeedsLivingMagazine.com HomewoodLife.com 43

44 | Special Advertising Section

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Conveniently located at The Shops of Grand River in Leeds, Grand River Pickers offers a curated collection of antiques, vintage finds, furniture, home décor, local art and artisan goods. More than a shopping destination, it’s where creativity and community come together through classes, seasonal markets and special events. Grand River Pickers supports local artists and small businesses while providing visitors a unique shopping experience celebrating craftsmanship and timeless treasures.

Discover unique finds at Vintage Interiors in Pelham! With a broad selection of furniture, artwork, pottery, glassware and more, there’s something to inspire every style. Shoppers love that the store is large enough to offer plenty of variety while still feeling welcoming and easy to explore. With new products arriving every week, there’s always a reason to stop by. Take your time browsing—you never know what special treasure you’ll discover!

44 Fall 2026

Special Advertising Section | 45

ANTIQUING GUIDE

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Yellowhammer Antiques is an upscale antique and vintage mercantile located in Leeds. The 20,000-square-foot space features a unique collection of thoughtfully curated booths showcasing art, furniture, handcrafted items, local goods, true antiques, vintage treasures, one-of-a-kind finds and so much more from a variety of hand-selected vendors. Whether you’re searching for a timeless piece, a unique gift or simply love discovering hidden treasures, Yellowhammer Antiques offers something special for everyone.

Since 1998, French Door Antiques has brought timeless European antiques and exceptional customer service to the Birmingham area. The business opened its Mountain Brook Village location in 2024 with a passion for beautiful, one-of-a-kind pieces. As direct importers of fine European antiques, their team curates unique furniture and décor that blend timeless style with everyday function. Visit French Door Antiques to discover treasures that add character, charm and beauty to your home.

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Bluff Park Vintage

Discover yesterday’s treasures today at Kolectic Treasures in Pell City! With 8,000 square feet and 250 vendors, the store offers a unique shopping experience filled with vintage finds, antiques, home décor, collectibles, gifts and more. Whether you’re searching for something special or enjoying the hunt, there’s always a treasure waiting to be discovered. Kolectic Treasures also has locations in Anniston and Talladega, making it easy to explore even more unique finds!

Bluff Park Vintage is the kind of place where you can come in looking for one thing and leave loving something completely unexpected. With an eclectic mix of vintage clothing, accessories and fun finds, there’s a little something for everyone and no pressure to buy. Come browse, try things on, mix and match and play dress-up for a while. You never know what treasure you’ll discover!

LeedsLivingMagazine.com 45

OUT & ABOUT

CREEK BANK FESTIVAL

PHOTOS BY AMANDA E.H. PRITCHARD

On Saturday, May 16, at Leeds Memorial Park, many gathered for a full day of festivities at the 31st annual Leeds Creek Bank Festival, hosted by the Leeds Area Chamber of Commerce. 1.

Emma Stone, Jillian and Turner Horne and Kathy and Alan Montgomery

Clay and Amber Vines

Baylee Mizell

Marcus and Miles Brown

Michael Sorrell

Tucker, Tensley and Elizabeth Austin

Monica Torres and Skyler Jones

Pam Carman and Penny “Lucky” Babin

Linda Neal and Genie Nichols

10. David, Maegan, Charlie and Jonah Dockery 11. Ensley Crabtree 12. Shayna and Kaia Gurley 13. Sandra Bailey and Tricia Noell

46 Fall 2026

OUT & ABOUT

LeedsLivingMagazine.com 47

OUT & ABOUT

AMERICA’S 250TH CELEBRATION

PHOTOS BY ANGIE RUIZ

On June 13, several organizations came together to transform Downtown Leeds into a celebration of America’s semiquincentennial. 1.

David and Diane Crawley and Susan Moore

Miranda and Greg O’Barr

Johnathan and Amanda Miller, Jay Brown, Derrick Blackshear and Beth Keller

Robert Thompson

Annette McGuire and Emma Cox

Amber Yeackle and Julie Hubbard

Cathy Karr and Linda Neal

Frank and Joan Dawson

Jennie Kruse, Casie Feltman and Brandon Kruse

10. Bret Dunsker, Brady Thomas and Ryan Templeton 11. Anthony Gramling and Clare Townsend

48 Fall 2026

OUT & ABOUT

Paul Perry & Associates Moody, AL

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LeedsLivingMagazine.com 49

OUT & ABOUT

LEEDS FARMERS MARKET

8 6

PHOTOS BY AMANDA E.H. PRITCHARD

On Thursday, July 30, patrons stopped by the weekly Leeds Farmers Market to purchase produce, baked goods, flowers and more. 1.

Zack, Cecily and Tiffany Scarvey

Patricia and Jennifer Gonzalex

Ricky Willingham

Hannah and Bayleigh Kirkpatrick

The Swader Family

Corina Karr

Tracy Smith and Harper Cribb

Vovvie and Ratus Johnson

Katelyn and Kristie Finn

10. Elle and Julia Banks 11. Lauren Brown, Molly Nichols, Cheryl Harper and Patricia Horne 12. Kaiden, Sandreca and Kenneth Howard 13. Traci and Danny Greenberg

50 Fall 2026

OUT & ABOUT

Thank you FOR VOTING US

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2606 Moody Pkwy, Moody, AL 35004 LeedsLivingMagazine.com 51

OUT & ABOUT

MOTORS ON MAIN

PHOTOS BY KELSEA SCHAFER

On Friday, July 24, the monthly cruise-in filled the streets of Downtown Leeds with Magic Moments as this month’s featured nonprofit. 1.

Courtney Carson, Rachel Rounsaville and Anne Madison Adcock

Charlie and Britney Hudson

Denton and Mary

Kenzie, Kason and Talon

The Mitchell Family

Jessica and Josh

Christy and Rod Bunn

Buddy Jones and Katherine

Braxston and Bayleigh

10. Brooks and Molly Smitherman 11. The McLaughlin Family 12. Tommy and Andrew Kennedy 13. Logan, Josh, Abby, Kim and Matt 14. Yando and Stella

52 Fall 2026

OUT & ABOUT

LeedsLivingMagazine.com 53

OUT & ABOUT

MOTORS ON MAIN CONTINUED

PHOTOS BY KELSEA SCHAFER

On Friday, July 24, the monthly cruise-in filled the streets of Downtown Leeds with Magic Moments as this month’s featured nonprofit. 15. Lisa and Paul 16. Bree and Gabe 17. Tyler Schafer, Stormi Peters and Jen Cooper

18. Hailey and Bear Harris 19. Frankie and Camille 20. The Culberson Family 21. Collin and Lynleigh 22. Steven and Kerri Burson and Doug Davis 23. Jaxson, Porter, and Chase 24. Haily, Britney, Memphis, Sawyer, Brooklyn, and Kenna 25. Chad Whitlock and Chase Davis 26. Stephanie and Debbie 27. The Harkins Family

54 Fall 2026

OUT & ABOUT

FREE COMMEMORATIVE GLASS

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MY LEEDS

NEVA REARDON Owner of Mum & Me Mercantile

Local Talent

Music in the Garden I enjoy supporting Green Up Garden Shop’s Music in the Garden on Thursday nights. The talent showcased makes me proud to be part of this great town, with the bonus of a beautiful atmosphere combining colorful flowers and people.

Community Fellowship

Historic Walk A favorite is the Historic Walk that the Leeds Historical Society sponsors. Every spring is a new decade where the merchants and community dress up and create the ambiance of that era. I can’t leave out the others that I have enjoyed so much, such as Mardi and Mistletoe on Main and Motors on Main because they bring the community together to celebrate.

Sentimental Spots

St. Theresa’s Catholic Church I enjoy solitude at St. Theresa’s Catholic Church. It is where I go to find peace and be close to my faith. We welcome our new priest, Father Weiss, but I will always miss Father Bean. I am looking forward to a new chapter in our church.

Making Memories

Mum & Me Mercantile My favorite part of Leeds is our store, Mum & Me Mercantile, located in downtown Leeds across from the Pants Store and next door to The Music Room. We are heading into the 10th year of business with our fabulous staff and customers that have become friends.

Outdoor Sites

Gazebo Park The place I like to go sit and relax is Gazebo Park. I love the magnolia mural by Julie Watters. It is one of the many improvements that Leeds Main Street has sponsored in the downtown area.

56 Fall 2026

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58 Fall 2026