From Thanksgiving until Christmas, we worked every day to keep up with the demands of the season. I put my head down and go into "Chef" mode and block out all other life events to focus on executing day-to- day operations. Then all of a sudden it's over. We break down the deli for a week's vacation and head home to celebrate the Christmas season. It's very difficult to turn it all off and I find it hard to relax and find the true meaning in the midst of all this chaos.

But then something changes.

It starts with a late night viewing of an old Christmas Classic, then the opening of gifts before church and seeing my kids joy at what Santa has delivered, an inspired homily that touches a chord in the empty spaces of the heart, and then family dinner. I just sit back and listen through the glow of the candles to the stories, and watch the faces glow with joy. Before I know what's happened I am filled with the spirit of Christmas and look forward to the promise of the new year.

We want to thank all of you who brought in clothing and toys for students at McFerran School. I can tell you that the students and teachers at McFerran are extremely grateful for your generosity.

We also want to thank you for your business over the past year -- it means so much to us. We look forward to serving you in 2007 and to making Stevens & Stevens a place you can count on for great food, and great service.



Mark Stevens

Meet ... Allen Clements
AKA: "Big Al"
Position & Duties: Prep, Cashier, Jack-of-all-trades
How long? 5 years
Likely to be found: Trying to get out of work!
What do you like most about your job? The people I work with
Favorite Stevens & Stevens grub: Yellow Submarine
Favorite Stevens & Stevens salad: Caesar with Chicken
Favorite band: Guns n' Roses
Pickles -- love 'em or hate 'em? Hate 'em
Currently reading: Christine by Stephen King
LEO or Velocity? LEO
How are you keeping Louisville weird? By being myself
Proudest moment: Becoming certified in heavy equipment
Favorite Movie: Final Destination 2
Hobbie: Gamer