Leeds Happenings this Week!
The Place to Go to Be in the Know
Check Out this Week's Leeds Happenings
We invite you to check out the scoop with all of the events, happenings, offerings and news snippets in this week's edition of Everyone Leeds.
It's Thanksgiving Day and a time to thank God for our many blessings. There is so much to be thankful for. We're thankful to live in a free country. We're thankful to have a roof over our head and food to eat. Many will sit down to a more than bountiful meal with family and friends. As we reflect, Everyone Leeds would like to take this opportunity to be thankful for you as our readers and subscribers. We appreciate you taking the time from your busy schedule each week to read what Everyone Leeds has to offer.
Thursday night was the perfect example of what Leeds, Alabama is all about. It's community. Everyone had a great time watching the Christmas tree lighting, listening to Leeds High School Band perform, see the excitement in the eyes of children as they each encountered Santa. It was awesome to see everyone working together to make it happen. Again, building community.
As we relax, eat plenty of turkey (and ham) and anticipate a great shopping weekend, remember Leeds when you rush out to shop for Black Friday, Small Business Saturday and Cyber Monday. Check out all the offerings in this publication and take advantage of them. Also, remember Giving Tuesday and make a decision on how you can give back to others and as always...
Shop Leeds. Dine Leeds. Live Leeds. Entertain Leeds.
Leeds Downtown Tree Lighting Brought Crowds to Kick Off the Holiday Season
Francesca's Grand Opening & Ribbon Cutting
The Leeds Area Chamber of Commerce and the City of Leeds held a ribbon cutting at Francesca's located at The Outlet Shops of Grand River in Suite 630 across from Old Navy. Mayor David Miller cut the ribbon in celebration of their grand opening right here just in time for Black Friday shopping week.
Ribbon Cutting Photo L-R: Steven Weems – FBC Leeds, Sandra McGuire – Leeds Area Chamber of Commerce, Francesca’s Staff: Cia Brown, Jasmine Dubose, Katie Fulks, Demetrius Riley, Mayor David Miller, Jeannie Cole – The Outlet Shops of Grand River, Lindsey McEwen, Joey McCain – The Shops, Tarrie Uranza Reve, Adam Armstrong – The Shops, Amanda Sarchet and Chris Oldenburg – ServPro Birmingham
Stop in to see what Francesca's has to offer and take advantage of some incredible deals!
More info: ShopsOfGrandRiver.com
Leeds FBLA Students Attend Fall Leadership Conference
Guest Post & Photos by Darcy Phillips.
Last week, myself and three other FBLA (Future Business Leaders of America) senior members attended the FBLA Fall Leadership Conference or FLC in Orlando, Florida, chaperoned by Leeds High School College and Career Coach, Catrice Thomas. This conference was split into two days. The first day included a motivational speaker and a specific track meant to help improve the skills of FBLA members. We chose to participate in the Leadership track, learning how to organize volunteer projects, how to work and communicate with others and the qualities needed for a successful leader in all areas of life, not just the work field. With 23 different states having members in attendance, we were able to meet kids our age from all over the country including Kentucky, Florida, North Carolina, etc., with whom we will now keep in contact with and hope to see at other FBLA functions. The second day of the conference was filled with workshops led by successful businesses like Men’s Warehouse and volunteer organizations like Lead4Change, which provided opportunities to earn money for our chapter and learn helpful tips and tricks for our careers. The FLC conference has helped prepare us for the business world but also how to lead successful and meaningful lives on the daily.
However, we didn’t just attend the conference while we were in Orlando, we also went to Universal (which was really my favorite part of the trip). This was my first time going to Universal, and to say the least, it was awesome. All of the rides and roller coasters representing movies that I have grown up watching and loving, meeting characters like SpongeBob and Patrick, and visiting the Wizarding World of Harry Potter, gave me the opportunity to really treat this trip like a vacation with my best friends. We drank butterbeer, bought wands, experiencing all the magic the park had to offer. We were able to watch shows and parades, but the best part for me was being able to do something that I have never done before and create lasting memories with people who I’ve grown up with. Another night, we went to Disney Springs and ate dinner at The House of Blues, later going shopping at one of only five M&M stores in the world. Though the hustle and bustle of the crowd was sometimes chaotic, being able to see parts of Disney as well as participating in all of Universal was a chance of a lifetime, one that we got to have because of FBLA. I know that I will always remember the lessons that I learned from the conference and the laughter and excitement of Universal. Trips like these make the anxiety of high school worth it.
Leeds Community Chorus Autumn Concert was Awesome!
Leeds Community Chorus performed their Autumn Concert on Sunday afternoon at Leeds Arts Council. A large crowd gathered to enjoy a variety of holiday music with plenty of Thanksgiving and Christmas favorites. For more information about Leeds Arts Council and other upcoming events, please visit: LeedsArtsCouncil.org
Submit Your Nominations Now for 2022 Chamber Awards
Nominations are currently being accepted for Business of the Year and Non-Profit of the Year. Please submit up to a one typed page nomination with your candidate of choice no later than November 30, 2022 to Leeds Area Chamber of Commerce.
Qualifications for Nominations:
Business of the Year
Nominee must be a member in good standing with the Leeds Area Chamber of Commerce and has shown an interest in the Leeds community through their involvement.
Non-Profit of the Year
Nominee must be a member in good standing with the Leeds Area Chamber of Commerce and has made a difference in the community and surrounding area.
Your nomination may be:
• Submitted by email to Sandra@LeedsAreaChamber.com
• Mailed to Leeds Area Chamber of Commerce, P. O. Box 900, Leeds, AL 35094
• Dropped off at the Leeds Area Chamber of Commerce office at 7901 Parkway Drive, Leeds, AL 35094 during normal business hours
Awards will be presented at the Annual Awards Luncheon at 11:45 am on Thursday, December 15, 2022 at Leeds First Methodist Church located at 1189 6th Street, Leeds, AL 35094. Reservations for lunch are currently being accepted. Lunch is $15 payable at the door. Door prizes are accepted to advertise your business. Our Awards Luncheon 2022 Event Sponsor is Modern Woodmen Fraternal Financial.
Seeds For Leeds | Leeds Jane Culbreth Library
We're starting a Seed Library! Bring your labeled seed packets to the library to help us grow. Once we have a collection going, we'll make these available to everyone to use!
#SeedsForLeedsLibrary
Dr. Adam Koplon has a New Addition to His Family
Congratulations To Dr. Adam & Savannah!!!!!
Last week, Dr. Adam and his wife Savannah welcomed their second daughter, Nell, just in time for Thanksgiving 
Grand River Drive In
Good times roll here at the drive-in !!! Here is your new movie lineup this week!
MOVIE LINEUP FRIDAY 11/25 & SATURDAY 11/26
Gates open at 5:30pm / Movies begin at 6:30
screen 1: closed for maintenance
screen 2: 6:30pm - The Menu (R) / 8:35pm - Smile (R)
screen 3: 6:30pm - Black Panther: Wakanda Forever (Pg-13) / 9:25pm - Black Adam (Pg-13)
screen 4: 6:30 pm - Strange World (Pg) / 8:30 pm - Dr. Seuss' The Grinch (2018 Animated) (G)
Visit Us Online to View the Movies and Pre-order Tickets Quick and Easy - www.grandriverdrive-in.com
Thursday, November 24
Happy Thanksgiving from Our Family to Yours!!!!
Friday, November 25 - IT'S BLACK FRIDAY!
Black Friday Swag Bag Giveaway & Weekend Sale! | The Outlet Shops Of Grand River
The Outlet Shops of Grand River are gearing up for incredible Black Friday shopping events. Shopping has never been this fun and the deals are just beginning!
Friday, November 25, The Outlet Shops of Grand River will open at 6:00 a.m. with brand sales, promotions, door busters. The stores are stocked and ready for customers to find that perfect gift. Great sales and doorbusters are planned all weekend. The Shops famed SWAG Bag Giveaway will provide even more excitement, fun and incredible prizes to the first 500 customers in line at 6:00 a.m. on Black Friday. Customers have traditionally lined up as early as 4:00 a.m. to receive one of those prized swag bags. The first 500 customers will receive a numbered ticket that can be turned in for a Swag Bag. This year, the total value is over $15,000 in gift cards and prizes. Visit our website for details.
Black Friday Sales: https://shopsofgrandriver.com/sale/
Swag Bag Giveaway Details: https://shopsofgrandriver.com/black-friday-swag-bag-giveaway/
Stephen Wheeler Live at the Rail | Rails & Ales
Live music with Stephen Wheeler 7-11 p.m. Food with Gumbo to Geaux 6-9 p.m.
Info: railsandales.beer
DJ Dance Mix & Karaoke | Van's Bar Leeds
DJ Dance Mix & Karaoke. Come out to sing and dance with us all night long! Join the fun at 7:00 PM. More info: https://www.facebook.com/VansBarLeeds
Saturday, November 26 - IT'S SMALL BUSINESS SATURDAY!
Small Business Saturday
Make sure to shop small business Saturday to support all the local businesses during this holiday season.
3 Reasons to Shop Small
- It keeps your community vibrant.
- It helps create jobs.
- Your support makes our day.
Iron Bowl Party | The American Legion Post 107
Food & Drink Specials
https://www.facebook.com/TheAmericanLegionPost107
Iron Bowl Party | Van's Bar Leeds
It's almost here! Join us for our annual Iron Bowl Party on Saturday, November 26th, at 2:30 PM. Bar and kitchen open at noon. Watch games all day on our BIG SCREENS and enjoy cold beer & VAN'S famous wings.... More Info: https://www.facebook.com/VansBarLeeds
DJ Dance Mix & Karaoke | Van's Bar Leeds
DJ Dance Mix & Karaoke. Come out to sing and dance with us all night long! Join the fun at 7:00 PM. More info: https://www.facebook.com/VansBarLeeds
Sunday, November 27
Happy Sunday
Take time to reflect, celebrate in the church of your choice and enjoy your day!
Christmas Advent series | First Baptist Church Leeds
It’s that time of year here @ FBC Leeds!
Excited to start our Christmas Advent series this Sunday! 8:30 and 10:45 AM! More info: www.facebook.com/firstbaptistleeds
Photos with Santa!| The Outlet Shops Of Grand River
Sunday, Nov 27 | 1-5pm
Location: Christmas Tree by Kay Jewelers (in the event of inclement weather, suite 610 across from Tommy Hilfiger)
Bring your camera to snap photos.
For more information: https://shopsofgrandriver.com/
Monday, November 28 - IT'S CYBER MONDAY!
Order online from your local retailers on CYBER MONDAY!
Save big locally and make this a big year for your local retailers that you know and love! Let's spread the love in Leeds, Alabama!
#CyberMonday #shopLeeds #shoplocal
Hustle & Grind Coffee Mondays | 6a-11a
at the corner of 9th Street & Parkway!
Serving your coffee favorites and more! Hustle & Grind Coffee Company
2X a week starting this week - Mondays and Thursdays!
https://handgcoffee.com/
Masterpiece Monday's at Leeds Theatre & Arts Center | 9a-Noon
Did you know we are open on Mondays from 9-12? Come on down to the #leedsartscouncil to view the art of November's featured artists and have a cup of coffee from the Hustle & Grind truck!
More Info: www.LeedsArtsCouncil.org
Grumpy Old Men | Monday Lunchtime Movie | Leeds Jane Culbreth Library
Monday, November 28th — Grumpy Old Men @11am-1pm
Two old men who have despised each other since they were kids now have a mutual love interest, which makes for the most hilarious Thanksgiving Day scene. For more information, CALL: 205-699-5962 or VISIT: www.LeedsLibrary.com
Leeds Archery Practice | Leeds City Schools
Open practice is happening each week now for any student grades 4-12th on Monday, Tuesday, and Thursday from 3:30-5:00 until Christmas break. No experience needed. Those who have an interest in joining or are new archers we will be there to help you. Further questions, please contact Leeds Archery at archery@leedsk12.org. Looking forward to a great season!!!
Women's Bible Study | First Baptist Church Leeds
Join Abby Weems for a Bible study in her home beginning Monday, November 28 at 6:30pm (6pm refreshments). There is also an option at FBC on Wednesday nights at 6 PM for those who need childcare or prefer the Wednesday option! *not only for FBC ladies…everyone is welcome!
Here is the link for the book if you’d like to order ahead of time!
Choosing Real: An Invitation to Celebrate When Life Doesn't Go as Planned https://a.co/d/cqM7HcO
More info: www.facebook.com/firstbaptistleeds
Tuesday, November 29 - IT'S GIVING TUESDAY!
It's Giving Tuesday! Open your heart and give to the charity of your choice. Remember our local charities right here in Leeds, Alabama! #GivingTuesday
Here are some Leeds Non-Profits to Consider:
- American Legion Post 107
- Ann's New Life- Friends of the Library
- Community Action Togetherness Services, Inc.
- Knights of Columbus Leeds Council #5597
- Leeds Area Chamber of Commerce
- Leeds Arts Council
- Leeds Education Foundation
- Leeds Historical Society
- Leeds Lions Club
- Leeds Main Street
- Leeds Masonic Lodge #446
- Leeds Outreach
- Moton Community Center
- The Red Barn
- Tri-County Civitan
- Women's Literary Club
Born-to-Read All day drop in | Leeds Jane Culbreth Library
Tuesday, November 29th - All day drop in
This is a no pressure program that can begin at anytime with your children. Pick up a sheet of 100 circles from the library to check off for every book you read to your child. Complete the sheet and get a reward. The goal is to make it to 1,000 books before Kindergarten. Drop in anytime or day to learn more about the program. More info, CALL: 205-699-5962 or VISIT: www.LeedsLibrary.com
Blazin Beats Music Bingo | Rails & Ales
Pop Culture Trivia Challenge is adding to the fun we bring with Blazin' Beats Bingo. This is a fast paced music bingo game where our hosts will play part of songs while you listen and mark them off on your bingo card. This ain't your grandma's bingo! Get ready to hear great music, win prizes and, hopefully, be the first to yell BINGO!!! We bring the fun to Rails and Ales every Tuesday at 7 pm. More Information: Rails & Ales
Line Dancing & Pool Tournament | Van's Bar
Wednesday, November 30
Free Billiards | The Backyard Leeds
Open Mic Night & Weekly Pool Tournaments | Van's Bar
Upcoming Events
Christmas Extravaganza | Leeds Art Council
Please join us for a spectacular Christmas variety show featuring our talented area theatre performers. You won’t want to miss this family friendly event guaranteed to get everyone in the Christmas spirit!
LMS Christmas Concert | LMS Gym
SAVE THE DATE! The LMS Band Christmas Concert will be taking place Tuesday, December 6th at 7:00 PM in the LMS gym. Students will need to report to the Band Room at 6:00 PM. 6th, 7th, & 8th grade bands will all be performing. Students will need to stay for the duration of the entire concert. Please share the flyer on social media & help get the word out!
Shopping, Deals & More
Open Thanksgiving Day | Laney's Country Cooking
Check out Laney's County Cooking Lunch Menu Daily @ Laney's Country Cooking Facebook Page and then come on over and enjoy the taste of real home cooking. Laney's serves home cooked breakfast daily. We use only the freshest ingredients. On Saturdays, we serve an "All you can eat" buffet. Children 10 and under are 1/2 price and seniors receive a 10% discount. For lunch, there is a "All you can eat" buffet that has at least 5 meats, 15 vegetables and casseroles, dessert bar with homemade cakes, pies, and puddings and salad bar.
7601 Parkway Drive, Leeds | (205) 903-9738
Tailgate The Iron Bowl With Rusty's Bar-B-Q
The Iron Bowl is this weekend, and while you never can be sure of the outcome of that game, you can be sure that your tailgate is a WINNER with Rusty’s Bar-B-Q!
Call ahead at 205-699-4766, or order online www.rustysbarbq.com.Click the link to view menu: Rustys bar-b-q menu
Bass Pro Shops (Leeds)
Now through November 27th, pick up your holiday gift cards!
These special gift cards are 10% off. Come get them while supplies last!
10% discount will show in checkout once payment is entered.
Gift card is valid to use starting Christmas Day.
Limit of 5 cards per household.
Beverly's Dance Unlimited
2022 Gift Guide | The Backyard
Our GIFT CARD SALE is live!
Purchase your gift cards next time you stop by and a earn bonus gift card.
Click to view: The Backyard 2022 Gift Guide
Special Restaurant Hours for The Backyard Black Friday Week:
Date: Monday-Wednesday, November 21-23
Times: 10:00 a.m. – 10:00 p.m.
Date: Black Friday, November 25
Times: 1:00 a.m. – 10:00 p.m. with plans to offer a special Black Friday Breakfast
Date: Saturday-Sunday, November 26-27
Times: 10:00 a.m. – 10:00 p.m.
Special Drive-In Schedule for Black Friday Week: November 21-23, 25-26.
For more information: https://shopsofgrandriver.com/
Bargain Bee's
Shop Bargain Bee's, located at 1501 8th Street in Leeds, Alabama across from the post office. Hours are Tuesday through Saturday 10 am to 6 pm.
Earthborn Studios
Check out Earthborn Studios Facebook Page for Pottery deals.
Black Friday Sale | Farmers Home Furniture
Come see us
7480 Parkway Drive
Leeds Al
205-702-4280
For Members Only - Apply for a 20% Tuition Scholarship @ JSU Today
Leeds Area Chamber of Commerce newest program to benefit Chamber Members and their Staff.
Black Friday Sale | LA Salon & Boutique
Open Friday 10-3p and Saturday 10-1p this week only.
LA Salon Boutique
Plus Tanning
on Livery Square
1601 9th Street, Leeds
205.699.3042
Shop this Holiday Season with Mum & Me Mercantile
Black Friday Sale | Overstock Mattress and Beds
Overstock Mattress and Beds will be open Friday and Saturday 10-4.
Black Friday Sale | Pants Store
Black Friday Bucks! Given to the first 300 people at every location the morning of Black Friday! Valid in stores only! 
BLACK FRIDAY DEALS:
20% off Storewide + deals listed below!
Black Friday Bucks- Receive $25 off when you spend $50 or more.
Given to the first 300 customers from 8-9AM at all locations. (ONE coupon per family. Only valid on Black Friday. Vendor exclusions apply. In store ONLY)For more Black Friday Sales Information: Pants Store Black Friday Link
Mills Pharmacy
There's no easier way to get your medications! Ask your Mills pharmacist about #SmartPack packaging. We'll sort all of your monthly meds into easy dosing pouches inside one convenient box at no extra cost. Drop your big box pharmacy and make the move to Mills.
Visit Mills Pharmacy Facebook Page.
Pre Black Friday Sale | Standard Furniture Leeds
Bob Watkins Realty
ESTABLISHED 1967
We specialize in foreclosures!
Call an agent today!!
Andy Watkins
205-352-3322
More Info: bobwatkinsrealty.com/
Spirit Day | Workout Anytime
Join us this Friday for a fun Spirit Day for the annual Iron Bowl 
Let's see which team will be rooted for the most 
Thanksgiving Holiday Staffed Hours 
- Wed. Nov. 23: 8AM - 6 PM
- Thur. Nov. 24: NO STAFF
- Fri. Nov. 25: 10AM - 7PM
This will only affect the usage of tanning. Of course, members can access the club 24/7 
We hope everyone has a safe and wonderful time with family & friends!
Now Hiring
Receptionist / Data Entry | Guardian Systems
Help Wanted - Guardian Systems, Inc. has a position open for a full time receptionist/ data entry person. Must have a good phone voice and excellent computer skills, high school education or equivalent and have a good understanding of math. Guardian Systems offers a full benefit package. Please apply in person at Guardian Systems at 1108 Ashville road Monday thru Friday from 8 am to 5 pm.
Thank you.
Linda Miller, President
Guardian Systems, Inc.
P.O. Box 190
Leeds, AL 35094
Telephone 205-699-6647
Fax 205-699-3882
www.gsilab.com
Helping Others
Christmas For Kids | Dunnavant Ladies Auxiliary
Please, we need you help. We are in need of new, unwrapped toys. The kids are wanting make believe kitchens, TRUCKS ,CARS, 2T JACKETS TO 6T for BOTH BOY AND GIRLS. PLEASE DROP OFF at Dollar General beside Scott's or please drop to Albert at 8615 Swafford Ave or please take to Mt. Hebron Baptist Church on Friday and Saturday from 9am till 12pm - or please make a monetary donation to help purchase items. You may send it to P.O. Box 1313, Leeds, AL 35094 or send it to 2617 Eastern Valley Rd. Please help the kids in care of CATS.
ANGEL TREE | The Outlet Shops Of Grand River
ANGEL TREE
Give Hope. Get Joy.
Fri, Nov 11 – Mon, Dec 5
Location: Outside the Food Court under the Atrium
Select a tag from the Angel Tree, purchase a gift, and return it to the Angel Tree by Dec. 5. Everyone that selects a tag will be entered into a drawing for a $205 gift card to The Outlet Shops of Grand River.
We are excited to announce that @selectshades has joined us this year with the Salvation Army Angel Tree. Everyone who brings in a toy will be entered to win!
*Visit shopsofgrandriver.com for details & rules.
Toys For Tots at Workout Anytime 
Help us give back to the community and give a child the best Christmas! We have joined Toys for Tots this year; the boxes will be taken by December 12th. 
This Week's Recipe
CROCKPOT MASHED POTATOES
Crockpot Mashed Potatoes are an easy, hands-off way to enjoy creamy, velvety mashed potatoes. Seasoned with garlic and parmesan, these slow cooker mashed potatoes are not only the easiest way to prepare mashed potatoes, but also one of the tastiest!
EVERYONE LEEDS WANTS YOUR VIDEOS!
Everyone Leeds need your help! We want your videos! We want to know why you love leeds and the best way to communicate that is through a short selfie video. All you have to do is to record your video on your iPhone or Android and send it to us. Don't worry about messing up! You can record as many takes as you want until you get it like you want it to be - just 30-60 seconds of you sharing why you love our wonderful City of Leeds. We know that Everyone Loves Leeds, but we want to know why YOU LOVE LEEDS! You may email your video to us at everyoneleeds@gmail.com or share it with us on Google Drive. Your video will be shared on our Everyone Leeds website (www.EveryoneLeeds.com) and our social media. We look forward to hearing why you love Leeds! #ILoveLeeds
Don't worry! If you're camera shy, you can still get in the news. We'll be happy to accept your written blurb!
Let Everyone Leeds Share Your News!
Community is important so that's why we want your news. Whether you have a heart-warming story about the people of Leeds, a local business, an upcoming event or a bit of history that you would like to share, we're all ears here at Everyone Leeds. Everyone Leeds is a positive platform to help you get your news out so please send us your news and happenings each week!
Would your business like to be featured here?
If you are a member of the Leeds Area Chamber of Commerce and have a business or an upcoming event in Leeds, Alabama, you could be featured on this weekly e-blast. Please submit your upcoming event(s) or special offering and we will be happy to include it!
LOOKING FOR A LOCAL VENDOR?
Are you looking for certain product or service from a local vendor? Check out the Business Directory at Leeds Area Chamber of Commerce and choose a chamber member.
If you are a local business and not a chamber member, maybe it's time! For more information, visit www.LeedsAreaChamber.com.
KEEP UP WITH LEEDS HAPPENINGS WITH US
To keep up with what's happening in Leeds, be sure to SUBSCRIBE to get this weekly e-blast direct to your inbox and visit our website often!
#everyoneleeds #leedshappenings #happeningleeds #historicleeds #leedsalabama #dineleeds #shopleeds #entertainleeds #visitleeds #thingstodo #events #minutesfrombham #buildingcommunity
