Eric C.

Smith's Station Elementary Sch

The teachers and staff here are caring and good at what they do. They special needs program at Smiths Station Elementary is simply wonderful. Everyone from the school bus driver, to the lunch room manager, to the teacher do a commendable job. My only disappointment is not exactly with the school itself but with the limited funding available here in Alabama...when compared to other states we've lived in.

PROS: wonderful and caring staff
CONS: limited funding for programs in Alabama

See's Candies

The key lime truffles, apple pie truffles, and pecan roll are my all time favorites. I love their "Nuts & Chews" collection. You get a free sample when it's your turn to order. The prices are reasonable and the service is great. They do get very crowded during the Christmas and Valentines Day holidays.

Rocky Mountain Chocolate Fctry

The mouth watering treats here are simply wonderful. I'm especially fond of their english toffee and tiger bark. The caramel/chocolate dipped apples are the best I've ever had. They are huge! Still, the service is lacking a quite brash. I've never had a pleasant experience in this store as far as the service is concerned. They have awesome confections but the service is so poor I have to wonder if it's even worth the trouble.

PROS: tempting treats
CONS: poor service

Brooks Brothers

Brooks Brothers clothing is a good thing. Brooks Brothers clothing at outlet prices are even better. Here at the store, you can find socks, golden fleece polo shirts, suits, etc. The offer quite a lot for men. The womens department seems small and lacking by comparison. The quality of service does not compare to the level of service received at a regular retail Brooks Brother's store.

Waterford Wedgwood Usa

I was able to purchase my wife a numbered Waterford compote here for only $95. The sales staff is very helpful and informative. We especially like visiting the store during the holiday seaon. They have lovely waterford and wedgwood ornaments for purchase. The store has a lot of the Lismore pattern of Waterford in but you can also find Araglin and other patterns as well.

Harvest Buffet

My wife and I enjoy playing BINGO here. You can play by using paper cards or by machine. Dobbers are available for purchase in the Bingo hall. You get a nice discount if you play Bingo on your birhtday. A full dinner is available for purchse as well as a variety of snacks. They even have fresh fruits cups if you're looking for a healthy snack. Try to get a seat near the "caller." The caller must here you if you yell "bingo" or will not get your money.

Leeward Eye Care Inc

I like this Longs because you can purchase a variety of items that are unavailable at their stores back on the mainland. They sell the BEST kulolo moch I've ever had. They also sell taro pancake mix,, hibiscus tea mix, guava jam, etc. The photo department here does a really good job. The service isn't always been commendable. Still, I like it here.

PROS: variety
CONS: workers with attitudes

Gifts From The Heart

My wife collects Dept56 Christmas village houses and I was able to purchase quite a few of them at Gifts From the Heart. They have a really good selection of Dept56 items. You can find patriotic, nautical, and country gifts here. The prices are reasonalbe and the people here are friendly. Parking is plentiful.

Timken Museum of Art

I love the Timken. The price can't be beat. It's free! The collection housed within is really wonderful. The Byzantine works of art are really worth notice. They have a wonderful work by Francois Bouchet that's not to be missed. They even have a gift shop. Taking photographs of the paintings is not allowed.

Museum Of Man

I like the exhibits here although my children didn't like the visit here as much as I did. You get to see the developement of a baby, man through the ages, etc. You can buy some really good freshly made quesadillas here too.

PROS:
CONS: more fun for adults than kids