280 Living
March 2017 | Volume 10 | Issue 7
neighborly news & entertainment
The Next Level
Spain Park, Chelsea, Briarwood Christian, Westminster and Oak Mountain combine to recognize more than 40 student-athletes who signed National Letters of Intent to continue their academic, athletic pursuits at the college level.
LEAVING A
legacy
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Pursuit of Passion
OMHS graduates leave mark on school through annual color run Oak Mountain High School Color Run founders Mandy Kelly and Mollie Shealy (front) toss pigments into the air with current organizers Emily Anne Beauchaine, Sara Adamson and Kaitlin Manolio outside of Oak Mountain High School. After a rocky start back in 2013, the OMHS Color Run has become an annual event that benefits cancer research at UAB. Photo by Sarah Finnegan. Oak Mountain High School alumna Ryland Lovvorn continues to grow and express herself through her art.
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By ERICA TECHO
T
he first Oak Mountain High School Color Run did not go as expected. Rain washed away the chalked-out running trail, they ran low on T-shirts, and in the end, the fundraiser made around negative $200. Despite that rough start, the Color Run 5K is now entering its fourth year and is continuing to grow. “The first run was just a disaster. I think we had like 100 people turn up,” said Mollie Shealy, one of the founders of the run. OMHS graduates Shealy and Mandy Kelly
A joint project between Shelby County and Alabama State Parks is taking place at Oak Mountain State Park. A new sidewalk from the parking lot to a newly re-established beach is one aspect of the project. Photo by Erica Techo.
organized the first color run in 2013, and while they decided in the fall to host a color run, planning didn’t start until February or March, Kelly said. “We did all the planning, and it was kind of hard,” Kelly said. “It was hectic because it was two 17/18-year-old girls who had never planned a color run or 5K before.” It started as an end-of-the-year fundraiser for Relay for Life through SGA, but both had a greater connection to the cause. Shealy’s grandfather, Donald Reid Ellison, had died three years prior after being diagnosed with lung cancer. Kelly’s grandmother, Susan Adele
Provost Powers, died from a cerebral hemorrhage after she was diagnosed with a rare form of leukemia. For Shealy, organizing a run to raise money for cancer research was the result of a love for her grandfather. She went through the process of seeing him diagnosed and seeing his health complications, and after he died, she wanted to make a change. “After my grandfather passed away, I really had this pull to the fire that I want to help in
See COLOR RUN | page A31
Re-established beach, new amenities to provide extra space for park-goers By ERICA TECHO Visitors to Oak Mountain State Park will have a few more amenities to look forward to as the weather warms up. As part of a joint venture between Shelby County and the Alabama State Parks Division, the back end of Oak Mountain State Park is getting spruced up. Work to re-establish a beach at Beaver Lake as well as build new piers, improve the boat parking area and
See PARK | page A30
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About Us Editor’s Note By Erica Techo This month is the sixth issue of 280 Living for which I have been community editor. Somehow, it feels like the past six months have both flown by and passed slowly, and I have to credit North Shelby County for keeping me busy. Prior to taking on a role as editor, I mainly focused on the articles I was writing or the meetings I was attending, but taking on an editor position has allowed me to look at the bigger picture for the 280 corridor. I’m excited to tell the stories of residents and communities, organizations and government entities. And it doesn’t seem like the stream of stories will slow down anytime soon. As spring arrives this month, we can expect to see an uptick in temperatures — not that we had much of a winter this year, anyhow — and an uptick in activities. In this month’s issue, you’ll find a list of ways to get outside and get active — from 1-mile fun runs and walks to the 50K at Oak Mountain State Park. This month we featured the Oak Mountain High School Color Run, a 5K that was started four years ago by two high school seniors. Despite a rough start
and a rough first year, the 5K has continued every year since, establishing a legacy and honoring the grandparents of founders Mollie Shealy and Mandy Kelly. And as the weather warms up, Shelby County residents will find a few updates at Oak Mountain State Park. The county is working in partnership with Alabama State Parks to reestablish a beach at the back of the park and to construct a few piers for swimming and fishing. With the busy summer months fast approaching, park and county officials hope the extra activity space and amenities will help lessen the burden on OMSP’s front beach and give space for visitors to spread out. We aim to keep our readers up to date on goingson in their community, and I hope this issue fulfills that goal. Have any ideas on something we should cover? Feel free to reach out via email — Erica@ starnespublishing.com.
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280 News
Council approves 2 public safety resolutions By ERICA TECHO The Chelsea City Council tonight approved two resolutions related to public safety, along with several other agenda items. The council approve resolutions to authorize the payment for an additional Shelby County contract law enforcement officer and to make an amendment to the 2016-17 budget for the Chelsea Fire & Rescue Department. An additional “hybrid officer” from the Shelby County Sheriff’s Office will now patrol from 5-9 a.m. and 3-7 p.m. Monday through Friday with a “focus and emphasis on Highway 280.” The payment for the additional officer is $78,000. “Job one for me is to keep our citizens safe,” said Mayor Tony Picklesimer. “That has been my number one priority and will remain my number one priority…. I want you to know this officer, this deputy, his primary focus will be Highway 280 and slowing it down.” During pre-council discussion on the resolution, Councilman Scott Weygand asked about marking the cars that are contract deputies for Chelsea. Councilman Cody Sumners said this was previously done using magnets, but they no longer use those magnets. “It’s on the radar,” Sumners said. The council also approved a resolution amending the Chelsea Fire Department’s budget, adding a merit raise for employees, promoting two part-time employees to full time and promoting one full-time employee to lieutenant. “What these guys do is real life superhero stuff, and we need and we deserve only the best,” Picklesimer said to the audience and members of the fire department at the meeting, “the highly trained, highly qualified and
Members of Chelsea Fire & Rescue shake the hands of the city’s mayor and council following a resolution to amend the fire department’s annual budget. Photo by Erica Techo.
highly committed, and I know you guys are committed. And I know you guys are committed because we were on the lower end of the scale for rewards for what you do, so I hope you will accept this with our gratitude.” Following the passage of the resolution, those in attendance applauded the vote. Aside from public safety, the council passed a resolution authorizing Picklesimer to contract with The Retail Coach, a retail consulting, market research and development firm. “This is an item, a promise that we made to you, that we would find a retail and commercial development recruiter and bring it to Chelsea,” Picklesimer said. “… We’re excited
that they’re going to partner with us and help us grow our city from a retail and commercial development.” Chelsea Fire Chief Wayne Shirley thanked the council for its support of the fire department, and also thanked the fire department for their consistent work and dedication. “They’re the ones who make this department really take care of this community. I’m more proud than I can describe to get to work with such a talented and valuable group of co-workers as I do with Chelsea Fire & Rescue,” Shirley said. Shirley also said that since Jan. 10, when traffic work at the intersection of U.S. 280 and CR 47,
which added red arrows to left turns in the intersection, Chelsea Fire & Rescue has not responded to motor vehicle accidents in that area. Also during the meeting, the council: ► Approved a proclamation declaring April as Sexual Violence Awareness Month. ► Approved a proclamation declaring Feb. 25 as Arbor Day in Chelsea. ► Approved a resolution to update the 2016 Shelby County Hazard Mitigation Plan. This plan opens the door for FEMA help and money, said Shelby County EMA Director Hub Harvey. ► Approved a resolution authorizing Picklesimer to contract with the Greater Shelby Chamber of Commerce for economic development services. ► Approved a resolution for a leadership development agreement with Leadership Shelby County. ► Approved a resolution to purchase light control links for three sports fields in the city. The cost for the light control links is $21,700 and will allow the lights of two ball fields on CR 47 and the CR 39 soccer field to be connected to a system to which all of the other lights are connected. This system allows the lights to be turned on and off on a schedule as well as remotely, preventing unauthorized usage of the lights and preventing the lights from remaining on all night, said Councilman David Ingram. ► Approved to pay the city’s bills. ► Approved a resolution to endorse the city as an applicant in the Alabama Communities of Excellence Program. ► Heard an update from Chelsea High School Vice Principal Matt Stephens, who thanked the school’s PTO for its support and noted construction on 21 new classrooms and a science lab should begin soon.
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March 2017 • A7
Commission passes resolution in support of ATRIP-2 bond issue By ERICA TECHO The Shelby County Commission voiced its support for a 3-cent bond issue called ATRIP-2 during its Feb. 13 meeting. The bond issue was proposed at the Association of County Commissions of Alabama’s 2017 legislative conference, according to the resolution, and received unanimous support of the 53 counties in attendance. “I have vetted this with the highway committee. All comments I’ve received have been favorable,” said County Engineer Randy Cole. ATRIP-2 is based on a gas tax the ACCA is trying to pass and would generate a total of $1.2 billion for the state. This money would be used for road and bridge improvements and could help fund more than 12,000 miles of road resurfacing projects and 450 new bridge structures, according to the resolution. “In Shelby County, total Shelby County, we expect to receive a little over $36 million,” Cole said, adding that 20 percent of that would go to cities. “I’m sure [Chelsea Mayor] Tony [Picklesimer] would like to have some money to work on his own road projects, or to match federal aid or patch potholes or do anything else he wants to do,” Cole said, addressing Picklesimer, who was in attendance. The bond issue would cost average Shelby County residents between $1.50 and $2.71 per month, Cole said. Cole presented the commission with the resolution, asking for them to voice their support of ATRIP-2. ATRIP, which was passed in 2012 by Gov. Robert Bentley, has been successful but was funded through federal money, Cole said. ATRIP-2 will not be federal money, which Cole said will help remove some of the limitations on projects. It could be distributed as needed, without a need for ALDOT approval for road and bridge projects. “We’ll prepare our own plans and run our own projects,” Cole said. “There’s going to be some stipulations that you cannot pull out salaries, you
cannot buy equipment. But you’ll put the money where the rubber meets the road.” County Manager Alex Dudchock noted that the 20 percent for cities is not the only funding to be used within municipal boundaries. Rather, all of the funding the county receives can be used on roads throughout the county, even if those fall into a particular city’s boundaries. “The capacity needs and the improvements relative to enhancements out of the county’s portion of this may very well predominantly be in municipal areas,” Dudchock said in regard to the 80 percent of funding not specifically designated for cities. Cole said he believes about 30 percent of the funding will be used on bridges and 70 percent will be used on roads. Dudchock said he has received questions about projects ALDOT is not doing, even though they are on state roads. Whether or not ATRIP-2 funding would be used for those projects, he said, will be discussed at a later date. “We like to keep our investment up, so we spend a lot of money on resurfacing roads to keep them in good order,” Cole said. “We spend a lot of money on shoulders to keep them in good order. … We don’t have any shortage of projects, and that’s the reason it’s very difficult for me to go fix something that ALDOT does not see to be a problem, when we have problems of our own.” Also at the meeting, the commission: ► Accepted bids on stone and sand for the highway department. ► Approved a resolution for an ADECA grant for a North Lakes connector trail to Lunker Lake at Oak Mountain State Park. ► Heard an update on construction at the Shelby County courthouse and Shelby Administration Building. Work at the courthouse will likely take around 10 months, and the renovation at the administration building should be completed by June, Dudchock said. The next Shelby County Commission meeting is Feb. 28 at 6 p.m. in the Columbiana Public Library.
Water resources conservation and emergency plans approved By ERICA TECHO The Shelby County Commission on Jan. 23 approved a resolution to adopt a water resources conservation and emergency plan. The plan detailed what residential and commercial customers and what wholesale customers of Shelby County Water Services should do in various levels of drought, as well as what triggers the different levels of response. “We’ve been required by the office of water resources with ADECA [Alabama Department of Economic and Community Affairs] to submit a formalized water conservation plan, and that’s what this is,” county Water Services Manager Michael Cain said. “This just puts into writing what we’ve been practicing.” The plan is intended to provide guidance for retail and wholesale customers during a time when water resource availability is hampered either through natural causes, such as a drought, or through mechanical or electrical failures, according to the document. A public hearing was opened before the plan was approved, but no one was present to speak for or against the plan. During the drought in 2007, the county started a water conservation plan with voluntary restrictions. Most customers complied with those restrictions, Cain said, and even though there were plans in place in case further action was needed, it was not necessary to go any further. The commission unanimously approved the resolution regarding the water conservation plan. The commission also approved a resolution to accept a bid for 595 water meters. The meters are used throughout the county’s water system, Cain said, and they will be used both as new meters and to replace old meters. “It just kind of depends. We’ve got a wide array of use of meters out in our system that are fairly old, compared to some that are fairly new,” Cain said. He noted that there are some meters in the Greystone area from the 1990s, while there are some in Westover from the 1970s. “We replace those as we need to.”
County Engineer Randy Cole also told the commission they are gearing up for the state’s upcoming legislative session and plan to ask the Legislature to consider a gas tax to fund ATRIP2, which could create revenue for counties across the state. A benefit of ATRIP-2 is that the funds would not be federal, which ATRIP is, and there would be fewer restrictions. “We could do roads we could not consider with ATRIP,” Cole said. He added that they need the support of commissions throughout the state and may bring a resolution regarding support for ATRIP-2 in front of the commission for consideration as soon as next commission meeting. Also during the meeting: ► County Community Services Manager Reggie Holloway discussed a handout that the commissioners received, which made a recommendation to enact a clause in the county’s cable franchise agreement that automatically renews two cable providers — AT&T and Charter — and to put one provider on a 180-day suspension. This third provider, Zito Media, would be monitored during the 180-day period, and if it does not comply, Holloway said, they would ask for “total suspension and possible termination” of the agreement. Zito serves Shelby and Columbiana, Holloway said. Charter previously gave up its agreement for that area rather than update the system as needed, and Zito has not updated the system either. ► The commission approved a bid for a water treatment liquid. ► The commission approved a resolution to plane, resurface and put a permanent stripe on County Road 13, between the Bibb County line and County Road 52. ► The commission approved a resolution to appoint Senta Goldman to the board of directors of the Eleventh Area of Alabama Opportunity Action Committee, which aims to alleviate the causes and conditions of poverty in communities and to help low income individuals become self-sufficient.
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The Shelby County Planning Commission approved the resubdivision of a lot in the Highland Lakes subdivision during the Feb. 6 meeting. Photos by Erica Techo.
A prescribed burn underway at Oak Mountain State Park. Photo courtesy of Dr. Scot Duncan of Birmingham-Southern College.
Shelby County Planning Commission OKs Highland Lakes lot resubdivision By ERICA TECHO The Shelby County Planning Commission unanimously approved the resubdivision of a lot in the Highland Lakes subdivision. The request came from Wayland Elliot with Eddleman Homes on behalf of Mary Ann Martin, the property owner. The sixth sector, where the lot is located, was first recorded in 1998. During that same year, Martin requested the lot would be combined into one parcel in order to “add some additional acreage to the rear and create a longer backyard,” Principal Planner Kristine Goddard said. The requested subdivision divided the lot into two lots around 53,000 square feet in size, which meet the original acreage. Elliot was present to represent the case, but there were no statements in favor or against
Shelby County Planning Commissioner Jim Davis will serve as the vice chair through the last meeting in February 2018. Photo by Erica Techo.
the request, and the planning commission had no questions regarding the request. It was passed unanimously. Also at the meeting, the planning commission elected Jim Davis to serve as vice chair from March 2017 through the final meeting in February 2018. The next planning commission meeting is set for March 6 at the Shelby County Services Building, located at 1123 County Services Drive.
Controlled burn planned for OMSP By ERICA TECHO Alabama State Parks will have prescribed burns at two locations in Oak Mountain State Park in February/March of this year. A prescribed burn is controlled and planned, and these burns are used to manage growth. The burns at Oak Mountain State Park will take place in the longleaf pine tree zones by the upper fishing lakes and adjacent to the park’s campground. During the burns, steps will be taken to manage smoke and maintain safety in surrounding areas, according to a press release from the Alabama State Department of Conservation and Natural Resources. The Alabama Forestry Commission and Pelham Fire Departments will also be notified and on standby in case they are needed. The burns at OMSP are aimed at enhancing the “stand,” or contiguous area of longleaf pines in the park. The burns will control understory vegetation growing beneath the canopy of the trees such as maple, gum, hickory and oak, and there are future plans to remove mature oak trees within these areas “to reduce competition within the stands,” according to the release. “An ongoing 10-year study of longleaf pine
ecosystems conducted by Dr. Scot Duncan of Birmingham-Southern College recommends controlled burns to help keep these areas open to sunlight and to stimulate the growth of beneficial understory plants,” said Forrest Bailey, natural resources chief for Alabama State Parks. “The State Parks Division feels that if hardwood competition is allowed to grow unchecked, both longleaf locations will be lost and that a valuable, historical plant community will become more degraded if no action is taken.” The longleaf management program at Oak Mountain is a partnership between Alabama State Parks and The Nature Conservancy (TNC) of Alabama. TNC will provide trained personnel, ATV equipment and logistics expertise to assist with the controlled burns. “Alabama’s state parks contain a wealth of unique and important biodiversity, as well as provide important places for people to enjoy the great outdoors,” said Keith Tassin, TNC terrestrial conservation director. “Periodic fire shaped Alabama’s ecosystems and is critical to their restoration and maintenance. This is the first step in restoring the mountain longleaf pine ecosystem that once covered much of the park.”
280Living.com
March 2017 • A9
BRINGING THE HEAT By SYDNEY CROMWELL
Pepper jelly has always been a part of Tim Murphy’s life. His childhood memories include his grandmother standing in her Mobile kitchen, making jams, jellies and preserves. “It’s just an old tradition, and every year she would make a special pepper jelly,” Tim Murphy said. It’s a jelly so good that he brought it with him to Auburn University for tailgates, where his future wife, Heather, first tried it and thought: “This is good stuff.” The couple even gave out jars of pepper jelly at their wedding. “It’s always been a part of our life,” Tim Murphy said. “People loved it.” From his grandmother’s tradition, the Hoover couple created their own recipe and started their business, 5ive Oaks, to spread the goodness. 5ive Oaks started out selling jars at farmers markets in Pepper Place, Ross Bridge and the Summit, Heather Murphy said. Since then, 5ive Oaks jellies can be found at the Piggly Wiggly stores in Homewood, Liberty Park and Bluff Park; Alabama Goods in Homewood; Western Supermarket in Mountain Brook and Vestavia Hills; and other stores in Birmingham, Huntsville, Gadsden, Mobile and the Peach Dish food delivery service in Atlanta. The name, Tim Murphy said, was the hardest part to create. He spent a long time thinking of possibilities before he remembered the set of five oak trees on his grandmother’s land, where he spent much of his childhood climbing trees, riding ATVs, hunting and playing. “What do I really remember from growing up down there? Five Oaks was the first thing that hit me,” he said. The name’s history fits, as Heather Murphy said their jelly has “a feeling of home and a feeling of local tradition.” Naming their company was difficult, but
learning to make pepper jelly was no walk in the park, either. His grandmother made it look easy, but Tim Murphy described his learning experience as “brutal.” “I’ll never forget it, the first time I processed a bunch of habanero peppers,” Tim Murphy said. He didn’t use gloves the first time he handled peppers, and a food processor incident landed pepper juice in his eye. Despite that painful beginning, Tim Murphy said he was determined to push forward. “She’s the master,” he said of his grandmother. “I wanted to be able to go back to her and say, ‘Look what I’ve done.’” After many test batches, the Murphys had a pepper jelly that was the right balance of sweet and spicy, with a red color Tim Murphy said
was difficult to get right without using food dyes. Since then, the 5ive Oaks jelly has been a hit at farmers markets and at stores. Heather Murphy said one of her favorite parts of the business is going to markets to watch people try the jelly for the first time and to hear from regular customers about their favorite recipes with pepper jelly. While it’s commonly served with cream cheese and crackers, Heather Murphy said pepper jelly can also be used with meats or vegetables. The 5ive Oaks website keeps a list of many recipes they’ve heard about or tried themselves. “It’s just so unique with how many things you can do with it,” she said. Tim Murphy said he also likes going to the markets, but for a different reason. His grandmother used to call him “the mouth of the
Hoover couple spreads love with homemade pepper jelly business 5ive Oaks pepper jelly is the creation of Tim and Heather Murphy, Hoover residents who live near Spain Park High School. Photo by Sydney Cromwell.
South” due to his childhood chattiness, and even today, “I could probably talk to a brick wall,” he said. Meeting and talking with his customers is the fun part of the job. “When I get to personally see someone … and I see a reaction, I love it,” he said. Though they only sell the one type of jelly, Tim Murphy said one of his goals for this year is to start developing more flavors such as fruit pepper jelly and other preserves. Heather Murphy said creating those recipes will take “more tinkering in the kitchen.” Tim Murphy said he also wants to continue expanding the stores where 5ive Oaks products sit on the shelves. “I’ve got huge dreams and big ideas for the company,” Tim Murphy said. Learn more at 5iveoaks.com.
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Now Open Joseph Buff has opened a Farmers Insurance office at 109 Foothills Parkway, Suite 112, Chelsea. 701-4924, farmersagent.com/jbuff
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Momma Goldberg’s Deli has opened a new restaurant in the Village at Lee Branch, 210 Doug Baker Blvd., Suite 230-600. 769-6042, mommagoldbergsdeli.com
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Relocations and Renovations
March 2017 • A11 Strauss Financial Group, Inc., 2201 Cahaba Valley Drive, Suite 200, has promoted Arthur Strauss to vice president of the firm. Strauss Financial Group, Inc., is an independent, local, registered financial advisory firm established in 1988. Arthur Strauss primarily works with high net worth clients, health care professionals and millennials. 967-9595, straussfinancial.com
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Skin Wellness Center Dermatology, 398 Chesser Drive, Suite 6, Chelsea, has hired Dr. Deborah Youhn to join its practice. 678-7518, skinwellness.com
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Southlake Orthopaedics, 3686 Grandview Parkway, Suite 430, has hired Dr. Donald A. Deinlein, an orthopaedic spine surgeon, to join their practice. 605-8180, southlakeorthopaedics.com
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Lemak Health has relocated its Birmingham clinic from 720 Montclair Road to a brand-new facility located at 5018 Cahaba River Road. The new facility opened on January 4 and provides greater access and convenience to patients. The clinic is a 20,000-square-foot facility housing two digital X-ray units, a state-of-the-art MRI and C-arm. Drayer Physical Therapy Institute will also provide on-site physical therapy. 453-7550, lemakhealth.com
Anniversaries
News and Accomplishments
The FARM: Functional Athletic Rehabilitation and Movement, 215 Narrows Parkway, Suite A, celebrated its third anniversary in February. 419-1595, chirofarm.com
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Jennifer Flowers, a travel adviser with Brownell Travel, 216 Summit Blvd., Suite 220, was recently named a “Trendsetter” by Luxury Travel Advisor magazine. The list of top-level travel advisers includes just 46 advisers from around the United States. 888-796-2839, brownelltravel.com
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Pure Barre 280, 610 Inverness Corners, celebrated its sixth anniversary on Feb. 28. 991-5224, purebarre.com/al-280
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Logan Deen State Farm Insurance Agency, 5479 Highway 280, Suite 120, is celebrating its third anniversary in March. 582-2030, logandeen.com
SOLUTIONS
Hirings and Promotions
Simply Infused, 5361 Highway 280, Suite 107A, celebrates its second anniversary in March. 408-4231, simply-infused.com
244-1114
Sherry Cole has been named chief nursing officer for Grandview Medical Center, 3690 Grandview Parkway. 971-1000, grandviewhealth.com
SuperiorScape, 8327 County Road 51, Sterrett, is celebrating its 24th anniversary in March. 678-2425, landscapeinbirmingham.com
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Alabama GCL# 43737
A12 • March 2017
280 Living
Little Donkey to open 2nd area site on U.S. 280 By LEAH INGRAM EAGLE After almost five years of success at its Homewood location, Little Donkey is opening a second restaurant in Birmingham, this one on the U.S. 280 corridor. This will be its fourth location, with the other two in Nashville, Tennessee, and Morgantown, West Virginia. The newest location will be in the former Verizon store near Alabama 119, in the shopping center with Big Bad Breakfast. Both restaurants are owned by Fresh Hospitality Group, and chef and managing partner Joshua Gentry is looking forward to expanding their brand to Shelby County, describing the location as “wonderful.” “Some of us live in that part of town, and what we really looked at is we have people that drive to Homewood to come eat,” Gentry said. “Let’s make it easier on them. It’s a great way for us to grow.” He said the other motivation for growing in this area is that they have a great staff, and they don’t want to lose them. “We have a couple of managers and kids that want to be managers,” he said. “If we don’t give them an opportunity, we lose them. We will blend our staff to keep a balance of talent.” They will run a staff of 45 full time and a management team of four. Since the locations are within close proximity, new hires may be able to get some training at the Homewood location. The U.S. 280 location will have a similar look to the one in Homewood. Its size will be about 700 square feet smaller. There will be 142 seats, including a patio. Gentry said space will be lost in the kitchen instead of the dining room. The look will have most of the same features as Homewood, but different elements. It will feature the same wood drop ceiling, exposed vents and wood-paneled wall. The restaurant serves Mexican food with a Southern influence, and both restaurants will have the same menu. Gentry said he and his partner, Nick Pihakis of Jim ’N Nick’s
Homewood restaurant Little Donkey, pictured here, will soon be expanding to the Highway 280 corridor. Photo by Lexi Coon.
Community Bar-B-Q, took the way they cook their meats and Southern food and applied it to the Mexican palate. “If I go to my grandmother’s house, pinto beans are on the table,” Gentry said. “If you eat a tamale, it smells and tastes like cornbread. We saw a real natural connection with palates and things we eat. If you let a Southerner cook Mexican food, this is what it would look like.”
Some of Little Donkey’s most popular dishes include fried chicken, tamales and tacos. Its menu also features appetizers, burritos, salads and entrées including pork, chicken, beef and steak. Sides include black beans, pinto beans, rice, chipotle slaw, fruit, street-style corn and potatoes. The featured dessert is churros, a fried pastry rolled in cinnamon and sugar with chocolate for dipping. The restaurant also will feature a full bar.
Gentry said he is waiting on the city to give approval before construction can begin, which he hopes is any day now. “My end is restaurants and operations; the city has been a ton of help and made the process go a lot faster because of my partners,” he said. Once construction begins, it will take about 70 days for the build-out. Gentry will start the hiring process about 30 days before they plan to open.
280Living.com
March 2017 • A13
St. Patrick’s Day a ‘big celebration’ along US 280 Here’s a rundown of bars and other places to get your green on
By JESSE CHAMBERS
(6-9 p.m.) and Bedlam (10 p.m-2 a.m.). They also will offer $2 green beer, $5 Bushmills shots and $6 Irish Car Bombs. 980-9891. Facebook at “Courtyard Oyster Bar.” ► Blackwell’s Pub, 3151 Green Valley Road. This popular Cahaba Heights watering hole will celebrate with live music, Irish car bombs, $2 green beer and specials on Jameson whiskey. The pub will offer such Irish-themed food as corned beef and cabbage and shepherd’s pie. 967-3798. blackwellspub.com. ► On Tap Sports Café, 810 Inverness Corners. On Tap will celebrate March 17 with all-day beer specials, including green draft beer, Guinness, Guinness Blonde, Killian’s and Smithwick’s. Irish whiskey will be on special, too. The bar will offer Car Bombs, Jameson shots and Irish coffee. On Tap also will show all the games from day two of NCAA basketball March Madness. 437-1999. ontapsportscafe.com.
To say that St. Patrick’s Day is popular in America is an understatement. The holiday has “spread across the U.S. as one of its biggest cultural celebrations,” and “cities from coast to coast have cultivated their own St. Paddy’s Day traditions,” says wallethub.com. Birmingham is certainly no exception, with plenty of bars and restaurants — including several in the US 280 corridor — where you can eat, drink and get your green on. Here’s a partial list of watering holes — and a couple of other businesses — getting into the St. Patrick’s spirit along US 280.
BARS
► The Red Shamrock. 42 Manning Place, Mt Laurel. The bar will not host its outdoor, multiband Shamfest this year, but rest assured the party will go on. “We always have a band and a big party inside the bar on St. Patrick’s Day,” said co-owner Kay Dailey. The musical duo Whiskey Dix will play March 17 at 8 p.m. There’s no cover. Whiskey Dix is “the best band in Birmingham,” Dailey said, adding that it has “amazing singers” and is “like a comedy club and music.” The Red Shamrock is “always packed” on St. Patrick’s, Dailey said. 408-1515. theredshamrock.com. ► Black Market Bar, 3411 Colonnade Parkway, Suite 800. BMB will offer drink specials and Irish food all day March 11 — the day of the St. Patrick’s Day parade in Five Points South — and again March 17, the actual holiday. The bar will have live music. Last year, it had such food as corned beef sandwiches,
OTHER PLACES TO GO IRISH
The Red Shamrock in Mt Laurel will have live music and festivities in honor of St. Patrick’s Day. File photo.
Reuben sandwiches and cabbage stew. 9678787. evilbartenders.com. ► Tilted Kilt Pub and Eatery, 14 Perimeter Park S. This Scotch-, Irish- and English-flavored pub will celebrate St. Patrick’s Day in a big way, decorating the bar in green and offering drink and shot specials, including “The Belfast Bomb” with Guinness, Jameson whiskey
and Kahlua. They will also have a special food menu from Feb. 26-April 2, featuring such items as fish and chips, Scotch eggs, corned beef and cabbage and shepherd’s pie. 972-0204. birmingham.tiltedkilt.com. ► Courtyard Oyster Bar, 4683 U.S. 280. This seafood restaurant and bar will celebrate St. Patrick’s Day with music from The Ringers
► The Fresh Market in Inverness, 4700 U.S. 280. Fresh Market will get into the St. Patrick’s spirit with plenty of Irish beer, including Guinness, in stock. The bakery will offer decorated desserts, including cupcakes and soda bread. They will stock such Irish staples as cabbage and corned beef brisket. There will even be green flowers. 991-0294. Facebook at “Fresh Market - Inverness/280.” ► Bunch Bakeshop (formerly The Funky Muffin), 4647-B US 280. This gluten-free bakery will offer some Irish-themed items, including sugar cookies and brownies decorated with clover. 408-9825.
A14 • March 2017
280 Living Selena Harrison with Ripple 511 speaks at the Chelsea Business Alliance luncheon on Feb. 8. Photo by Erica Techo.
New retailers and restaurants coming to The Summit By LEXI COON After opening in 1997 and being home to more than 100 stores, The Summit is welcoming five additional tenants in 2017. Starting in February, Abhi and Arhaus will open. Abhi, a restaurant next to Pottery Barn Kids, is owned by the former executive chef for Bamboo on 2nd, Abhi Sainju. According to a press release, the menu is inspired by Sainju’s Nepalese heritage and will feature Asian-inspired plates with new and fresh features. Arhaus, originally opened in 1986 and now with 67 locations nationwide, will be near the Carmike Cinema and will be the first of its retailers in Alabama. As a 15,000-square-foot storefront, the company will offer high-quality furnishings while continuing their passion toward sustaining the Earth, according to a press release. The Summit will also welcome Altar’d State, a fashion boutique that got its start in 2009 in Knoxville. The brand is known for its “on-trend fashion and most anticipated accessories and gifts,” a press release said, and follows its motto “to stand out for good and do its part to change the world for better through giveback campaigns.” Now with 70 stores in 22 states, Altar’d State’s 5,502-square-foot space will be opening in spring near Anthropologie. Anthropologie is also getting an additional neighbor, Hanna Andersson. As a Swedish-inspired brand, Hanna Andersson offers children’s “omni-channel brands” and is known for its classic bold-stripe sleepwear and iconic dresses and T-shirts. Hanna Andersson also has clothing for babies and preteens, a women’s collection called Love Hanna and a home collection called Hanna Home. As their first retail space in Alabama, its 2,000-square-foot storefront will open in the summer. The final newcomer to The Summit is restaurant The Cowfish. Founded in Charlotte, North Carolina, The Cowfish representative Gwen Poth said, “The Cowfish delivers over-the-top burgers, innovative sushi and their signature Burgushi – a fun fusion of the two.” Poth added the restaurant also offers a bento-box combination for those who can’t pick just one option. The Cowfish will open its first Alabama location this summer near Saks Fifth Avenue. For more information, go to thesummitbirmingham.com.
Chelsea business leaders hear keys for social media success at CBA luncheon By ERICA TECHO In a world where customer and business interaction is moving more and more online, many businesses are working to grow their presence on social media websites. During the February Chelsea Business Alliance luncheon, local business owners heard tips for managing and maintaining successful social media websites from Selena Harrison with Ripple 511. Before launching social media accounts, Harrison said it is important to look at target audiences and develop a plan. There are several social media sites, including Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest, Instagram, LinkedIn and others, but not all of those sites fit every business, Harrison said. “It is not necessary to be in every one
of those platforms. What you first need to do is figure out where your audience is,” she said. “… One of the things I talk about with people is that without a plan, you are planning to fail.” An important step is setting up purpose and priorities, she said, because businesses can then look back on those set items before making changes. Wandering off into other areas, Harrison said, could end up being a waste of time and resources. “It comes back to talking to the right people and having the right focus when you’re doing it,” she said. “If you go on Facebook, for instance, and all you do is sell, sell, sell all the time, people are going to stop listening to you.” When it comes to knowing an audience, Harrison said it is important to maintain a solid focus on a specific group. While some companies look at
their audience in a broad scope, narrowing a message to focus on a specific gender, age group or other factor can help a social media campaign succeed. “If you start talking in general … you are going to reach no one,” she said. “… The more specific you get, and you speak their lingo, you’re authentic. And you know your audience, you can also figure out which platforms they’re on.” Chelsea Business Alliance President Dr. Ben Smith announced he plans to step down as president. The decision was not an easy one, he said, and it came as the result of other parts of his life. “Thank you,” he said. “It’s been a great ride. … I’m real pleased with where we are.” The next Chelsea Business Alliance luncheon will be March 8.
280Living.com
Chelsea residents Alexandra and Michael Houghton opened Soccer Post on Valleydale Road in January. Photos by Erica Techo.
Chelsea couple opens soccer equipment shop on Valleydale Road By ERICA TECHO Soccer has long been something Chelsea resident Michael Houghton has enjoyed. Originally from England, he grew up playing soccer and has been a lifelong fan of the sport. Now, he’s hoping to share that passion with others through his new soccer gear store, Soccer Post. Michael Houghton opened Soccer Post with his wife, Alexandra Houghton, in January, but they had considered opening a store for several years. “This has actually been kind of a thought in the back of the mind for a good two and a half, three years,” Alexandra Houghton said. As Chelsea residents, they frequently drove past Sports Blast on U.S. 280 and saw all the soccer games, but did not see a shop dedicated to the The store carries equipment for all ages and all types of needs of soccer players. play, including recreational and professional leagues. “We saw a need for a quality soccer shop in the Hoover/280 corridor, so that is what we want can’t get online,” Alexandra Houghton said. to be for this community,” Alexandra Houghton “We’re looking for that individual that wants said. to touch and feel and see, and walk off with it Their store on Valleydale Road is the first — not sit around for two days and hope it fits Alabama franchise location of Soccer Post. when they get it.” When considering opening a store, Michael When a shopper comes in, Michael HoughHoughton said the support of a franchise is ton said they can either direct them to the something that appealed to them. equipment they are looking for or help them “We looked to opening up a soccer retail determine what equipment is best. store, but we didn’t want to go out on our own,” “Even for novice players who just want to he said. “We wanted to have the backing of kick a ball around, we’ve got that level,” Alexhaving a franchise, having somebody where andra Houghton said. “For the rec leagues, we could go to, help us with suppliers, always whether it’s a little league or an adult league, have that inventory available.” we’ve got that level. For the serious player who Opening through a franchise meant they had is in competition and they’re traveling all over, established connections to vendors, the ability be it the state or the Southeast, we’ve got that to get out-of-stock merchandise in a few days level for them.” and advice for picking a location and setting As they become more established as a store, up the shop. Michael Houghton said they also hope to “Once the ball got rolling, it moved,” Alex- become more involved with the soccer comandra Houghton said. “I think one of the ben- munity in Birmingham. efits to the franchise was they knew what they They would like to become an ambassador were doing. They knew how to advise us kind for the community, providing a gathering place of on some next steps.” and a place to post information, he said, as well The store carries equipment for all ages and as setting up tents with merchandise at tournaall types of play, including recreational and pro- ments in the future. fessional leagues. And because they are a store Both look forward to seeing the store conthat focuses on soccer equipment, they are able tinue to grow. to carry a wider variety of sizes and options, “We haven’t stopped grinning since we Michael Houghton said. opened the doors,” Alexandra Houghton said. They also carry replica jerseys of profes- “The excitement level on our part, I don’t sional soccer teams that cannot always be found believe could be any higher.” in sporting goods stores. Soccer Post is at 5291 Valleydale Road, Unit “Our mission is to provide a variety and ser- 137. For more information, go to soccerpost. vice to our customers and experience that they com or facebook.com/SoccerPostBHM/.
March 2017 • A15
A16 • March 2017
280 Living
Preview of
Chamber
Luncheon
Director discusses regional planning commission’s available programs
March
By ERICA TECHO
Dudchock County Manager Alex Dudchock is set to give a state of the county update at the March South Shelby Chamber of Commerce luncheon. At the 2016 South Shelby Chamber luncheon, Dudchock provided updates on the county’s general fund, which has recovered since the Great Recession, and county projects. The luncheon is set for March 2 at Columbiana First Baptist Church. Networking will start at 11:30 a.m., and lunch will be catered by Bernie’s on Main of Columbiana. The cost is $15 per person, and no RSVP is required. For more information, go to southshelbychamber. com.
The Regional Planning Commission of Greater Birmingham recently updated its website to make information on the services and programs it offers readily available and easy to understand. “One of the things I really wanted to do when we did the new site was to have little videos explaining what our services are because you can go to some websites, they may have 50 pages of text you have to navigate through,” said RPCGB Executive Director Charles Ball. “… So we put the videos on the main page, in case you want just a short overview.” During the February South Shelby Chamber of Commerce luncheon, Ball also sought to explain some of those programs to chamber members, while reviewing ongoing projects. To start his presentation, Ball showed some of the new RPCGB videos, which cover topics such as transportation planning, community planning, economic development and the Medicaid Waiver program. While the Medicaid Waiver program is available for Jefferson County, not Shelby County, Ball said he chose to include it so that luncheon attendees were aware of the program and could let friends, family members or others know it was available. “Unfortunately, a lot of people don’t know about it until they have to know about it,” Ball said. The video on transportation planning discussed past projects such as RPCGB’s access management study on U.S. 280, carpool lanes on Interstate 65, greenway projects in Helena
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Charles Ball, executive director of the Regional Planning Commission of Greater Birmingham, spoke at the Feb. 2 South Shelby Chamber of Commerce luncheon. Photo by Erica Techo.
and Homewood and other projects across the region. It also discussed APPLE transportation project feasibility studies. “Normally when you’re doing a transportation project with federal funds, you’re allowed to do preliminary engineering at the very beginning of the process,” Ball said. “Should you decide, with that pre-engineering work, that you don’t want to do that project, if you use fed [federal] money, you have to pay it back. With the APPLE program, you do not have to pay it back if
you decide not to do the project.” Ball also encouraged individuals to get involved with Shelby County’s ongoing development of a bicycle and pedestrian plan. Public involvement meetings to gain input on where residents hoped to see better bicycle- and pedestrian-friendly amenities were held in January, and the county plans to use that information to develop a plan for future projects. “If there’s a way for you to participate, because this is your plan, make sure you find a way to do that,” Ball said. Sheriff John Samaniego asked Ball if there were plans for a rapid transit system in the works at this time, and Ball said there has been preliminary planning and studies on a potential system. “We call them alternative analyses, which is the first step toward getting federal funding for being able to do a project like that,” Ball said. The RPCGB carved out about $6 million for those preliminary steps, Ball said, and has done studies in downtown Birmingham, along U.S. 280, on I-65 S and on U.S. 11 East and West. The city of Birmingham took three of the regional planning commission’s studies, combined them into one project and applied for a grant for a bus/rapid transit project, Ball said. The city received $20 million for that project, which will likely be up and running in 2019. “I have a dream that one day as a region, we’ll come up with some type of consensus on what we want from a transit standpoint, and then we’ll come up with a dedicated funding source to make that happen,” Ball said.
280Living.com
March 2017 • A17
Chamber
Montevallo professor: Shelby County businesses optimistic about 2017 Rep. Arnold Mooney, center, received the Business Champion Award from the Business County of Alabama during the Greater Shelby Chamber of Commerce’s 36th annual meeting Jan. 25. Photo by Erica Techo.
By ERICA TECHO Members of the Greater Shelby Chamber of Commerce are optimistic about how businesses will do in 2017, according to a survey conducted in partnership with the University of Montevallo’s Stephens College of Business. Starting in October, chamber members were asked to respond to the second annual Shelby County Business Outlook Survey, which polled participants on what they believe affects business and what they thought the business climate would be like in 2017. Stephen Craft, dean of Montevallo’s business school and a professor at the university, presented the survey responses during the chamber’s 36th Annual Meeting at the Pelham Civic Complex on Jan. 25. Around 200 people responded to the survey, which was distributed to chamber members via email. Of respondents, around 63 percent have fewer than 50 full-time employees. “We are definitely getting the perspective of small businesses and high-growth businesses,” Craft said. When asked about the overall 2017 business outlook, 82 percent of respondents said they expect revenue to increase. Only 7.4 percent said they expect it to shrink. “You all are a very optimistic group of people, and that’s a good thing,” Craft added. “That’s a really good thing.” About 43 percent expect full-time employment to increase to a degree and 31 percent expect part-time employment to increase,
Craft said, and 86 percent of respondents expect debt to remain the same. Participants were also polled on what affects job creation in Shelby County, and most said factors such as cost of unemployment insurance, taxes and fees, unemployment insurance and workers compensation do not affect job creation in the county. Factors many believe does impact job creation, Craft said, were difficulty in finding skills and experience and a growth in sales. The need for talent, Craft said is a hurdle many businesses are facing. “Shelby County, like many developed cities and developed economic areas, is in a profound talent crunch,” Craft said. This talent crunch comes from the retirement of the baby boomer generation, and companies having to work to backfill those positions, Craft said.
In summary, Craft said survey responses indicated business owners in Shelby County believe employment will increase, profits will increase, capital investment will continue, and jobs will continue to be created when there is business to be done. Prior to Craft’s speech during the luncheon, new chamber chair Keith Brown was introduced, and he recognized the chairs and vice chairs of the chamber’s work groups and thanked immediate past chair Paul Rogers for his work with the chamber. Rep. Arnold Mooney, of District 43, also received the Business Champion Award from the Business County of Alabama during the luncheon. Mooney received the award based on his leadership, which led to the passing of the Right to Work constitutional amendment, according to a press release.
Preview of
March
Luncheon The Greater Shelby Chamber of Commerce’s March luncheon will focus on green business practices. The chamber launched the Green Business Program in 2013 to recognize Shelby County businesses that are committed to and engaged in environmentally responsible operations and practices. This month’s program will recognize environmentally safe and sustainable business practices and operations. The chamber’s business and industry work group reviews applicants and approves companies that apply for the green business designation. Applications are based on a point system that factors in waste prevention, recycling, purchasing, energy conservation, transportation, water conservation and pollution. Applicants must receive a minimum of 20 total points to be certified. The luncheon will also include a panel, where panelists will discuss how their organizations are engaged in green business practices. The luncheon will be held from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. on Wednesday, March 29, at the Pelham Civic Complex and Ice Arena. The cost is $20 for investors and $30 for future investors, and reservations are required by noon on March 27. Call the chamber at 663-4542 or register online at shelbychamber.org.
A18 • March 2017
280 Living
Sports Eagles aiming for 3 in a row Oak Mountain boys soccer team has won back-to-back Class 7A state titles By SAM CHANDLER The Oak Mountain High School boys soccer team ascended to the tallest of heights in 2016. This season, it will look to stay there. The Eagles enter 2017 fresh off a 28-win campaign that ended with a second straight Class 7A state title. In June, they were rated the top team in the country by USA Today. Head coach Dan DeMasters said his squad’s recent success will make its pursuit of a third consecutive blue trophy even more challenging. Oak Mountain, like most years, will have a sizable target on its back. “I can’t say this enough: To do anything three times is going to be difficult, no matter how much you prepare,” DeMasters said. Oak Mountain’s 2017 season, which kicked off Feb. 13 with a 2-2 tie against Vestavia Hills, marks the fourth year of DeMasters’ decorated tenure. Since he took over in 2014, his teams have tallied 72 wins to only seven losses. Six ties, including two in 2016, also have been recorded during the span. This spring, DeMasters said he’ll
Peach State slate • March 4: Oak Mountain vs. Brookwood (Georgia) • March 10: Oak Mountain vs. Parkview (Georgia) • April 15: Oak Mountain at McIntosh (Georgia)
need to tinker with his team’s recipe for success. The Eagles lost a number of key players from last year’s roster who will need to be replaced. “It’s a different team. It’s a different recipe,” DeMasters said. “So I’ll have to do some different things this year with the guys to prepare them physically and mentally and all that sort of stuff.” DeMasters said his biggest project will be reconstructing his backline, which lost all four starters to graduation. Notably, the departed quartet of Chandler Thomason, Christian Thomason, Brandon Kelly and Jason Webb now plays at the college level. The team also will have to replace shot blocker Ryan Dearmon, whom
Oak Mountain senior Kennedy Davis, a Dartmouth signee, enters the 2016 season with three years of starting experience under his belt. Photo by Sam Chandler.
DeMasters said was “pretty much the best goalkeeper in the state.” “It’s all going to be new, so chemistry’s going to be a big thing, just learning how to play with each other will be a big thing, but I think it will happen,” DeMasters said. The Eagles will have less to worry about on their attack, even with the departure of All-American Hunter Holstad. That’s because they return a veteran core anchored by Kennedy Davis, a Dartmouth signee, and Chad Jeter, the MVP of last spring’s state tournament. DeMasters said he foresees Davis, a four-year starter, filling the hole vacated by Holstad. “That doesn’t happen very often,”
DeMasters said of having a four-year starter like Davis. “That kind of goes to show you what kind of dynamic player he is. He’s going to be our stud, our captain.” DeMasters said two other players to watch for on the attack are junior Clay Holstad, the younger brother of Hunter Holstad, and senior Caleb Van Geffen, an All-State cross-country runner who serves as the team’s “Energizer bunny.” The combination of speed and endurance possessed by Van Geffen meshes well with DeMasters’ tactical approach, which hinges upon movement in the attack. “No matter how old you are or how much skill you have, you’ve got to
work hard and make movement off the ball,” DeMasters said, “because plays happen when you move off the ball.” DeMasters, therefore, places an added emphasis on player fitness. He said his team’s speed, conditioning and overall mental toughness have traditionally set it apart from the competition. “I try to tell my guys that speed kills,” DeMasters said, “and we’re going to try to be faster — and not only faster but more in shape — than other teams to kind of make them run.” DeMasters, it seems, already has found a few ingredients for his new recipe. Time will tell what he cooks up — and how it compares to last season’s sweet result.
280Living.com
March 2017 • A19
Allan perseveres to finish career on high note Manny Allan was unable to wrestle much in his sophomore and junior seasons, due to multiple knee injuries. Given the advice to give up wrestling after multiple knee injuries, Allan came back and put together a phenomenal senior season. Photo courtesy of Jim Pressler.
By KYLE PARMLEY When Manny Allan first saw the sign, he had a totally different picture in his head. “There was a sign at my football practice, saying there were tryouts for wrestling,” Allan said. “Back then, I was really into the WWE, so I was thinking ropes and everything.” His dad allowed him to sign up, but when he walked into the wrestling room for the first time as a fifth-grader, he was surprised. “I thought, ‘This is not what I pictured,’” Allan said. But he stuck with it and quickly became one of the top wrestlers in his class. He won the Metro championship as an eighth-grader at Oak Mountain Middle School, where he wrestled for two years. He moved to Spain Park High School prior to his freshman year, and advanced to the state tournament as a ninth-grader. He was well on his way to putting together an illustrious high school career, one full of eye-popping records and multiple accomplishments. Then adversity struck. A knee injury wiped out nearly all his sophomore season. Allan rehabbed and made it back for the final stretch of the year, but he was unable to qualify for the state tournament. But instead of using that as a propelling force into his junior year, pain struck again. He sustained another knee injury, one that would knock him out for the entire season. “I wanted to quit, because it was my second knee injury,” Allan said. After the initial depression of suffering that injury, he vowed to not let that moment define him, despite the advice others gave him. “Everyone told me I shouldn’t wrestle again, but I said, ‘I’m going to,’” he said. Through the regular season portion of the schedule, Allan lost just one match, to an opponent outside of Alabama. While his coaches were not surprised, Allan certainly was. “I was getting my butt kicked over the summer by kids I used to beat,” Allan said.
“I just kept going to practice every day, and I started getting better. It wasn’t until my first match that I didn’t get taken down once.” Despite being limited for the majority of the last two years, Allan has learned what it takes to be a high-quality wrestler. He cited mental toughness as one of the primary keys to winning or losing a match. He also is a firm believer in the power of a healthy diet.
He learned that lesson the hard way. In middle school, he was forced to cut a significant amount of weight in just a few weeks, and he said he went most days just eating a single orange. “It’s really hard to wrestle with just an orange [in your stomach],” he said. But after doing some research, he found the balance that worked for him. Now, he eats every
“
I was getting my butt kicked over the summer by kids I used to beat. I just kept going to practice every day, and I started getting better. It wasn’t until my first match that I didn’t get taken down once.
”
MANNY ALLAN
two hours, usually a protein-packed snack. He tries to consume 220 grams of protein per day and 130 grams of healthy fats. That confidence in his diet gives him an edge on the mat over counterparts who attempt to make weight by eating less. “If I go in every single match knowing that I’m going to make weight, I just have the energy,” Allan said. “Hard work helps.” Because Allan’s time on the mat has been limited the last few years, it has taken some time for college programs to take notice of his ability. His strong senior season took care of that quickly. “I thought I wasn’t going to get a scholarship, but colleges started contacting me. I do want to wrestle in college,” Allan said. “He has the ability to excel as a wrestler on the college level,” said his coach at Spain Park, Ryan Thompson. “To be good in college, you have to be good on your feet in the neutral position, and you have to hand-fight and be physical and aggressive, and that’s his strong suit.” As for his goals beyond college? Well, Allan still has “ropes and everything” in mind. “I’d love to go into the WWE. That would be cool,” he said.
A20 • March 2017
280 Living
NATIONAL SIGNING DAY 2017
WILL BATTERSBY ▶ SPORT: Baseball ▶ COLLEGE/UNIVERSITY:
GOING TO THE
NEXT LEVEL N
University of Alabama at Birmingham ▶ LOCATION: Birmingham ▶ MASCOT: Blazers
DYLAN BRADLEY ▶ SPORT: Soccer ▶ COLLEGE/UNIVERSITY:
By KYLE PARMLEY
ational Signing Day was the celebration of another strong year of high school athletics along the U.S. 280 corridor. Spain Park, Chelsea, Briarwood Christian, Oak Mountain and Westminster combined to recognize more than 40 student-athletes as they signed National Letters of Intent to continue their academic and athletic pursuits at the college level. Here’s a brief profile of each student-athlete, sorted by high school:
High Point University ▶ LOCATION: High Point, North Carolina ▶ MASCOT: Panthers
ISABEL CADDO ▶ SPORT: Track and field ▶ COLLEGE/UNIVERSITY: University of Alabama
▶ LOCATION: Tuscaloosa, Alabama
▶ MASCOT: Crimson Tide
Photos by Sarah Finnegan, Kyle Parmley, Sam Chandler and Lexi Coon.
MADISON COBB
RACHEL CUNNINGHAM ▶ SPORT: Soccer ▶ COLLEGE/UNIVERSITY:
▶ SPORT: Swimming ▶ COLLEGE/UNIVERSITY:
University of West Georgia ▶ LOCATION: Carrollton, Georgia ▶ MASCOT: Wolves
DARYN ELLISON
San Diego State University ▶ LOCATION: San Diego, California ▶ MASCOT: Aztecs
DOUGLAS HENZE ▶ SPORT: Tennis ▶ COLLEGE/UNIVERSITY:
▶ SPORT: Football ▶ COLLEGE/UNIVERSITY:
University of Chicago ▶ LOCATION: Chicago, Illinois ▶ MASCOT: Maroons
MARY KATHERINE HORTON
Harvard University ▶ LOCATION: Cambridge, Massachusetts ▶ MASCOT: Crimson
JAMAL JOHNSON
▶ SPORT: Golf ▶ COLLEGE/UNIVERSITY:
▶ SPORT: Basketball ▶ COLLEGE/UNIVERSITY:
▶ LOCATION: Birmingham ▶ MASCOT: Bulldogs
▶ LOCATION: Memphis,
Samford University
JOSIAH JOHNSON
University of Memphis Tennessee
▶ MASCOT: Tigers
JENNA OLSZEWSKI
▶ SPORT: Football ▶ COLLEGE/UNIVERSITY:
▶ SPORT: Softball ▶ COLLEGE/UNIVERSITY:
▶ LOCATION: Williamsburg,
▶ LOCATION: Auburn,
▶ MASCOT: Patriots
▶ MASCOT: Tigers
University of the Cumberlands Kentucky
Auburn University Alabama
280Living.com
March 2017 • A21
A22 • March 2017
280 Living
LINDSAY SONG
JORDAN SUSCE ▶ SPORT: Tennis ▶ COLLEGE/UNIVERSITY:
▶ SPORT: Golf ▶ COLLEGE/UNIVERSITY:
Davidson College ▶ LOCATION: Davidson, North Carolina ▶ MASCOT: Wildcats
MARY KATE TEAGUE
University of Louisville ▶ LOCATION: Louisville, Kentucky ▶ MASCOT: Cardinals
MARY KATHERINE TEDDER
▶ SPORT: Softball ▶ COLLEGE/UNIVERSITY:
▶ SPORT: Softball ▶ COLLEGE/UNIVERSITY:
▶ LOCATION: Huntsville, Alabama ▶ MASCOT: Chargers
▶ LOCATION: Austin, Texas ▶ MASCOT: Longhorns
University of Alabama in Huntsville
MYKAEL WALTON
University of Texas
LARRY WOODEN ▶ SPORT: Football ▶ COLLEGE/UNIVERSITY:
▶ SPORT: Football ▶ COLLEGE/UNIVERSITY:
University of the Cumberlands ▶ LOCATION: Williamsburg, Kentucky ▶ MASCOT: Patriots
ELI ALEXANDER
Arkansas State University ▶ LOCATION: Jonesboro, Arkansas ▶ MASCOT: Red Wolves
PRINCES EMBRY ▶ SPORT: Soccer ▶ COLLEGE/UNIVERSITY:
▶ SPORT: Volleyball ▶ COLLEGE/UNIVERSITY:
University of Alabama in Huntsville
Lawson State Community College ▶ LOCATION: Birmingham ▶ MASCOT: Cougars
▶ LOCATION: Huntsville, Alabama ▶ MASCOT: Chargers
MADELINE GUILLEN ▶ SPORT: Soccer ▶ COLLEGE/UNIVERSITY: University of North Alabama
▶ LOCATION: Florence, Alabama ▶ MASCOT: Lions
TAYLOR HACKETT ▶ SPORT: Volleyball ▶ COLLEGE/UNIVERSITY: Gadsden State Community College ▶ LOCATION: Gadsden, Alabama ▶ MASCOT: Cardinals
280Living.com
March 2017 • A23
SABRINA LANG ▶ SPORT: Soccer ▶ COLLEGE/UNIVERSITY: William Carey University ▶ LOCATION: Hattiesburg, Mississippi ▶ MASCOT: Crusaders
MAURICA MARSH ▶ SPORT: Volleyball ▶ COLLEGE/UNIVERSITY: Edward Waters College ▶ LOCATION: Jacksonville, Florida ▶ MASCOT: Tigers
LEXIE RIGGINS ▶ SPORT: Volleyball ▶ COLLEGE/UNIVERSITY:
Wallace State Community College
▶ LOCATION: Hanceville, Alabama
▶ MASCOT: Lions
KATHRYNE SHOOP ▶ SPORT: Softball ▶ COLLEGE/UNIVERSITY:
Southern Union State Community College ▶ LOCATION: Wadley, Alabama ▶ MASCOT: Bison
KHALARI SOUTH ▶ SPORT: Soccer ▶ COLLEGE/UNIVERSITY:
Meridian Community College
▶ LOCATION: Meridian, Mississippi
▶ MASCOT: Eagles
KENNEDY DAVIS ▶ SPORT: Soccer ▶ COLLEGE/UNIVERSITY: Dartmouth College ▶ LOCATION: Hanover, New Hampshire ▶ MASCOT: Big Green
CHAD JETER ▶ SPORT: Soccer ▶ COLLEGE/UNIVERSITY: University of South Carolina Upstate ▶ LOCATION: Spartanburg, South Carolina ▶ MASCOT: Spartans
A24 • March 2017
280 Living
JACK KOZLEK
LEVI LONG ▶ SPORT: Soccer ▶ COLLEGE/UNIVERSITY:
▶ SPORT: Soccer ▶ COLLEGE/UNIVERSITY:
Belmont Abbey College ▶ LOCATION: Belmont, North Carolina ▶ MASCOT: Crusaders
KENDALL MAYNARD
Andrew College ▶ LOCATION: Cuthbert, Georgia ▶ MASCOT: Fighting Tigers
SARA SCHERER
▶ SPORT: Soccer ▶ COLLEGE/UNIVERSITY:
▶ SPORT: Soccer ▶ COLLEGE/UNIVERSITY:
▶ LOCATION: Birmingham ▶ MASCOT: Panthers
▶ LOCATION: Memphis,
Birmingham-Southern College
LUCY THRASHER
Rhodes College Tennessee
▶ MASCOT: Lynx
MAGGIE ADCOCK ▶ SPORT: Soccer ▶ COLLEGE/UNIVERSITY:
▶ SPORT: Soccer ▶ COLLEGE/UNIVERSITY:
University of Alabama at Birmingham ▶ LOCATION: Birmingham ▶ MASCOT: Blazers
SARAH ADCOCK
Wofford College ▶ LOCATION: Spartanburg, South Carolina ▶ MASCOT: Terriers
GRAHAM CORE ▶ SPORT: Soccer ▶ COLLEGE/UNIVERSITY:
▶ SPORT: Baseball ▶ COLLEGE/UNIVERSITY:
▶ LOCATION: Spartanburg,
▶ LOCATION: Wheaton, Illinois ▶ MASCOT: Thunder
Wofford College
Wheaton College
South Carolina
▶ MASCOT: Terriers
WILSON HAND
SADLER McKEAN ▶ SPORT: Lacrosse ▶ COLLEGE/UNIVERSITY:
▶ SPORT: Swimming ▶ COLLEGE/UNIVERSITY:
Brown University ▶ LOCATION: Providence, Rhode Island ▶ MASCOT: Bears
COLE STEADMAN
University of Notre Dame ▶ LOCATION: South Bend, Indiana ▶ MASCOT: Fighting Irish
SAM STRICKLAND ▶ SPORT: Baseball ▶ COLLEGE/UNIVERSITY:
▶ SPORT: Baseball ▶ COLLEGE/UNIVERSITY:
Birmingham-Southern College ▶ LOCATION: Birmingham ▶ MASCOT: Panthers
CAMRYN NEAL
Samford University ▶ LOCATION: Birmingham ▶ MASCOT: Bulldogs
JACK WILSON ▶ SPORT: Soccer ▶ COLLEGE/UNIVERSITY:
Mississippi College ▶ LOCATION: Clinton, Mississippi ▶ MASCOT: Choctaws
▶ SPORT: Soccer ▶ COLLEGE/UNIVERSITY:
Mercer University ▶ LOCATION: Macon, Georgia ▶ MASCOT: Bears
280Living.com
March 2017 • A25
A26 • March 2017
280 Living
Expectations high for Eagles softball Abby Jones, pictured, and Clara Fuller give the Eagles a pair of quality pitching options. Jones put together a 2.97 earned run average in 99 1/3 innings pitched, while Fuller hurled 111 innings with a 3.72 ERA. Photo by Kyle Parmley.
By KYLE PARMLEY One of the first statements Kaitlin Griffin made to her new softball team was that she expected to make the state tournament. Oak Mountain High School had not reached that stage since 2002 — reaching the consolation final the year following a Class 5A state championship in 2001 — making for some wide-eyed glances and tilted heads. But Griffin knew the talent she was inheriting. “I knew about the program, and I knew the talent they had,” Griffin said upon assuming the head coaching position at Oak Mountain before the 2016 season. Having the likes of Carmyn Greenwood, Ashlee Sanders and O’Neil Roberson made for a potent Eagle lineup. Abby Jones and Clara Fuller in the pitching circle was a duo more than capable of getting the job done. The Eagles soared last season, slugging their way to a phenomenal regular season, good enough to qualify them for the North Central Regional in Tuscaloosa. However, the season ended abruptly there, as Oak Mountain struggled and was eliminated a step shy of its objective. “Our expectations were to be at the state tournament, and we just did not play well at all,” Griffin said. One reason for the Eagles’ struggles in the regional round was their reliance on the home run ball throughout the season, led by Roberson’s school record 21 bombs. With deeper fences than they were accustomed to seeing in the regular season, the offense fell flat. Even with Roberson returning this spring, Griffin hopes to mold the offense into a wellrounded unit. “We’ve got to score runs, small ball and moving runners and everything like that,” she said. “That’s really going to be our focus this year, just hitting the ball hard and having
good at-bats.” With that taste in their mouths, the Eagles are looking to put together another great season in Griffin’s second year at the helm, one that ends at Lagoon Park in Montgomery in the state tournament. “They remember how they felt, and they were all so mad at the end of the tournament. They don’t want to experience that again,” Griffin said. Oak Mountain will have to replace Greenwood and Sanders, who each signed with SEC programs (Greenwood with Auburn, Sanders with Mississippi State). To fill those holes in center field and at shortstop, Griffin will look to slide a pair of lineup regulars over to assume the role. Jenna
Galloway will likely take on the center field spot, after holding down left field last season. Maddie Katona is expected to slide over from third base to shortstop. The Eagles also have their two-headed monster back on the mound with Jones and Fuller. Jones put together a 2.97 earned run average in 99 1/3 innings pitched, while Fuller hurled 111 innings with a 3.72 ERA. “Luckily, we have two good pitchers this year coming back,” Griffin said. “That’s really important for us, because a lot of teams don’t have pitching and luckily, we have two. It’ll be important for us to get them going.” Louisville commit Cassady Greenwood will continue her responsibility of handling the
pitchers from the catcher position. Roberson will spearhead the attack at the plate once again, and has signed with Mississippi State to play beyond her high school years. “She doesn’t want to have that senior slump where she just kind of coasts through the season,” Griffin said. “She really wants to get after it and have another good season, especially after last year. Her expectations from me are the same.” Griffin’s expectations remain consistent from her first year. The Eagles have no other intention than returning to the state tournament, and they will need all hands on deck to ensure that happens.
280Living.com
March 2017 • A27
Sam Towery is part of a big junior class expected to be a big part of the Hornets’ success in 2017. Photo courtesy of Cari Dean.
Hornets eager to rebound with strong season
By KYLE PARMLEY Michael Stallings said he is excited about the prospects of the 2017 season for the Chelsea High School baseball team. Coming off a season that, admittedly, did not go as well as hoped, the Hornets have burned through the offseason on a mission. “We’ve got a very talented group coming back, a high energy group,” Stallings said. “We had a good summer, and we’re looking to build on that coming into the season.” With a bevy of seniors on the 2016 team, expectations were high, but the team fell short of expectations. This year’s team is made up differently, with the majority of the contributions expected to come from the junior class. “We’ve got four great seniors, guys that are really going to contribute and help us, and we’ve got a really strong junior class who we’re going to lean on heavily,” Stallings said. Among those four seniors, three will log innings on the pitching mound, in Connor Burnett, Tristan Sulcer and Josh Gregg. The other is Jacob Burback, who is now in his third year on the varsity team. Then there is that large junior class, many of whom got varsity experience as sophomores last year. Riley Watkins started at first base for the Hornets and hit in the middle of the lineup last season, and he is expected to do the same this season. William Root played every game last season in right field and will take on a significant role again. Brendon Case is making the transition to outfield this spring, as he was an infielder last year. Case already is committed to South Alabama, and he will also see some time on the mound this season. “He’s a great athlete, so I think he’ll do fine,” Stallings said. “He’s got the potential to hit in
the top of our order, and he’s got great speed.” Sam Towery could be one of Chelsea’s top pitchers this spring, along with playing in the infield. Evan Mealins has earned playing time at catcher in the past. “We are really leaning heavy on our juniors,” Stallings said. “Our area’s going to be tough. It’ll be interesting to see how it all pans out. We’re ready to get out there and compete.” Class 6A, Area 8 includes Pelham and Helena, two teams that have always put competitive products on the field. Outside of that junior class, Nolan Forehand was called up to the varsity team after spring break last season and played quality innings on the infield as a freshman. “He’s got really good hands and good footwork. You’re going to be hearing about him,” Stallings said. Looking at the overall makeup of this season’s rosters, the Hornets have high hopes for what could be a successful season. “We’ve got more pitching depth than we’ve had since I’ve been here,” Stallings said. “We’re going to pitch it well.” Stallings said he also has seen an improvement in the team’s overall offensive game, something that he hopes to see the benefit of once the season begins. Defensively, he hopes to see his team improve from last year. “I think we’re going to be able to defend, and that’s going to be the big key,” he said. Ready to make things right in 2017, the Hornets have been itching to get back on the field and reach their goals. The offseason work has been put in. The season brings the opportunity to make it happen on the field. “This group has put in a lot of work in the offseason, and I’m ready to see that pay off,” Stallings said. “I’m ready to see how that translates into season play.”
A28 • March 2017
280 Living
Above: Andrew Harris has been one of the anchors for Spain Park’s bowling team in each of the past two seasons, as the Jags have claimed back-to-back state titles. Left: Ryan Caraway at the AHSAA State Bowling Tournament. Photos by Sarah Finnegan.
Jags bring home 2nd straight bowling title By KYLE PARMLEY The Spain Park High School boys bowling team was in a hole, in danger of being denied the final leap in its quest for a repeat as Class 1A-7A state champions. Then a strike. Then another strike. Then another. Seven strikes later, the Jags looked up to find themselves with a 63-pin lead over Vestavia Hills with one game remaining, a lead they would hold onto to take home a second consecutive blue map, by defeating the Rebels 1,036899 in the finals on Jan. 27 at Oak Mountain Lanes in Pelham. “That just got everybody up. As long as we bowl loose, we bowl well. We were able to
bowl loose,” said Spain Park coach Stephen Hobbs. After an impressive 237 in the first of five games, the Jags held a 32-pin lead over the Rebels, one that was quickly erased in the second game. Vestavia bowled a 186 compared to just 133 for Spain Park, propelling the Rebels into the lead. Spain Park made up some of the gap in the third game, but still trailed by seven pins. Then, the 258 came in the fourth game, catapulting the Jags ahead for good and giving them the triumphant feeling once again. “There’s something about being there already,” Hobbs said. “They’ve already done it, and they have that feeling that they are supposed to win. What I was most proud of is
that they never caved. There was a point in the match where Vestavia was just throwing strike after strike, and we were struggling, but they came back and kept competing and won.” In the final, the Jags put out a lineup including Ryan Caraway, Tucker Contormo, Brady Cooper, Devin Dowdle, Andrew Harris, Jalen Johnson, Matthew Plexico and Wyatt Lumsden. Spain Park earned the second seed following the first day of the state tournament, with the Rebels claiming the top seed. The first day was used to determine seeding, setting up a bracket for the final day of action. The Jags began the day with a 1,002-755 win over Indian Springs. In the quarterfinals, the Jags pulled away in the final game of a tight match, beating Grissom 889-820. Spain
Park eclipsed the 1,000-pin barrier for the second time of the day as the Jags defeated Hewitt-Trussville, 1,022-927, setting up the final against Vestavia Hills. To advance to the state tournament, Spain Park finished in the top four of the South regional the previous weekend. The Lady Jags also advanced to the state tournament, and advanced to the quarterfinals before falling to Thompson in a heartbreaker, 712-711, the second time during the season the Spain Park girls team lost by a single pin. Caroline Parker, Julianna Cross, Mary Katherine Tedder, Ashley Tessman, Taylor Harrington, Alexis Anderson, Lindsay Parker and Josie Bonamy all competed for the Lady Jags at state.
280Living.com
March 2017 • A29
Teammates once again Jenna Olszewski and Abby Tissier to continue long-running relationship on the diamond as Tigers By KYLE PARMLEY Abby Tissier and Jenna Olszewski are near social opposites. Tissier is talkative by nature and attacks new situations with fervor. Olszewski is much more guarded and quiet and approaches inevitable change cautiously. The first time the two met brought out both of their personalities. Olszewski moved to Hoover from Michigan following her sixth-grade year and joined the Birmingham Bolts travel softball program. She was introduced to the team at a summer practice, a group of girls she had never met before. Tissier took Olszewski’s introduction in stride, but when the two saw each other at Bumpus Middle School, an instant bond formed. “I saw her at my school, and I said, ‘Jenna, what’s up?’” Tissier recalled excitedly. “We’ve just kind of grown really close over the years, and I love her.” Olszewski remembers Tissier’s constant energy that first practice and was taken aback. But she came around. “I never thought I would get along with someone like that because I’m so quiet and reserved and not very outgoing unless you know me,” Olszewski said. The two were inseparable as middle-schoolers and as freshmen at Hoover High School. Even though
Olszewski transferred to Spain Park High School before her sophomore year, they still played together with the Bolts through last summer. Their days as teammates are far from over, however. Olszewski committed to play at Auburn University during her freshman year of high school. One of her visits to the Plain made that decision easy. “I went for my visit during the Iron Bowl, when Auburn won the Kick Six game, and we all went crazy, and I knew right then that was where I wanted to be,” Olszewski said. Auburn was always Tissier’s top choice, and she committed a few months after Olszewski. There was never a doubt that the two would make plans to room together. They are convinced they will coexist successfully. “We were so close in middle school and even though she left, we’re still so close,” Tissier said. “I don’t feel like there’s going to be any difficulty with it. We’re going to help each other through hard times.” “We’re both very organized, and she’s very smart,” Olszewski said. “I think we’ll both hold each other accountable and help each other.” The two exceptional talents — Tissier is a catcher, while Olszewski can play several positions on the diamond — are not simply playing for the in-state school that will be happy to compete occasionally. Auburn’s
program has transformed into one with national championship aspirations each season, something that inspires and motivates both. “It’s like the opportunity of a lifetime,” Tissier said, “just to be coached by those coaches and just to be in that atmosphere.” Olszewski sees it as even more of an opportunity after Auburn fell one game short of its first Women’s College World Series victory in 2016, falling in game three to Oklahoma. “It’s very motivating,” she said. “It’s serious business. I wouldn’t go there expecting anything else. It makes you want to work harder, because you know people have unfinished business, after losing last year.” But before the two run off to college, there is one season of high school ball left, and their outlooks on the final season exacerbate their personalities. Tissier shows over-the-top excitement about what lies ahead. “I don’t want [my senior year] to end, but I do want it to end, because I really do want to go to Auburn,” she said. “Everyone is telling me it’s going to be the best four years of my life, and I so believe it. It’s just a really good opportunity.” For Olszewski, playing for Auburn in future years is a “dream come true,” but admitted the conclusion of her high school career will be emotional, especially considering the fact
Jenna Olszewski and Abby Tissier are set to play college softball together at Auburn. Photo courtesy of Jenna Olszewski.
Spain Park finished runner-up at the state tournament last season, and the Lady Jags have aspirations of getting back to that mark. “It’s every person’s dream (to win state). You want to be able to
say you’re the best. It gets you very excited,” Olszewski said. They may be two different people, but they will be joined at the hip for at least four more years beyond this spring.
A30 • March 2017
280 Living Establishing more destinations toward the back of the park not only will help spread out crowds, but it can also introduce visitors to parts of the park they have not explored, Shelby County Chief Development Officer Chad Scroggins said. Photo by Erica Techo.
PARK
CONTINUED from page A1 construct new sidewalks started this fall, and the projects are set to wrap up in late spring, said Shelby County Chief Development Officer Chad Scroggins. Areas of improvement were determined as part of a master plan assessment that took place a few years ago, Scroggins said, and these projects were selected to help give visitors more options at the park. The front of Oak Mountain State Park sees a lot of traffic, Scroggins said, and this will help spread crowds out a bit. “In the summertime, [the front area] can get really, really crowded. It’s where most folks go,” he said. “Whether it’s the beach that’s there, or the boat and kayak rentals or the Alabama Wildlife Center.” The beach is also located right next to the park’s back entrance, which Park Director Kelly Ezell said will help alleviate the lines at the front gate. “I think it will create a draw to a different area of the park,” Ezell said. “Our current beach area and day use area are very crowded, so this will give some other options for people looking for a beach or possibly an area to grill out.” In the 1970s and ’80s, there was a beach at the park’s back two lakes, Scroggins said, but it has grown over in the past several years. To reestablish it, they drained the lake by about eight feet, removed structures in the area and installed sidewalks from the parking lot down to the beach. “It’s just going to be a lovely area,” Ezell said. “It’s going to be very nice, and having a fishing pier and a swimming pier, those will be other great amenities for our guests.” Off that beach, there will be a swimming pier and two fishing piers, along with an established fishing habitat in the lake. The fishing habitat will be built using more than 200 Christmas trees that were recycled this holiday season, Scroggins said. A second beach will also be reestablished by the park’s campgrounds, which Scroggins said helps add another amenity to that area of the park.
“I think it just provides [visitors] more opportunities to get out,” he said. “There’s just more things to do. Bank fishing has been kind of limited at the park, … so to have these fishing piers, just to have multiple options of entertainment is the goal.” While the beach by the campgrounds was already in existence, Ezell said the county is working to make it “more usable and accessible.” There will also be a fishing pier at that beach. Establishing more destinations toward the back of the park not only will help spread out crowds, but it can also introduce visitors to parts of the park they have not explored, Scroggins said. They also hope to be able to accommodate more events, he said, especially on high-volume days during the summer. “We saw that there was some more demand for this back section, so now the park could really have two 5K trail runs that don’t even
have to overlap,” Scroggins said. The updates could be completed as soon as March, Ezell said, just in time for spring break and the warmer weather. Ezell said she hopes the community enjoys the updates, and she hopes they know that anyone who supported Amendment 2 on November’s ballot helped support this project. “I hope it’s positive, and I think it will be,” Ezell said of the public’s reaction. “I would like to say that Amendment 2 has made this kind of thing possible. …We appreciate the legislators who brought that amendment to the ballot, and to the folks who voted to make that amendment, to bring that to where we can keep our funds.” Amendment 2 was to prohibit reallocating state park funds for other uses and to allow the Department of Conservation and Natural Resources to contract with non-state entities for the operation and maintenance of land or facilities in the state park system. It passed with
more than 1.4 million votes, gaining 79.7 percent support. Allowing state parks to keep the funds they take in, Ezell said, was integral for this project. “Amendment 2 made this kind of thing possible,” Ezell said. “I really want people to know that [by] voting for that, we couldn’t commit to this project until we knew that Amendment 2 had passed.” OMSP plans to hold a grand opening for the new amenities as soon as they are open. Other upcoming projects at the park include a family-friendly bike trail from Lunker Lake to the North Trail Head and new mews at the Alabama Wildlife Center, both for the Eurasian eagle owl and a bald eagle that is coming to the wildlife center. The new bike trail, Ezell said, will help alleviate the packed parking OMSP has at the start of the North Trail Head. “We’re expecting great things this year at Oak Mountain State Park,” Ezell said.
280Living.com
March 2017 • A31
COLOR RUN
CONTINUED from page A1 any way possible to help find a cure,” Shealy said. While Kelly’s grandmother, Susan Adele Provost Powers, died before she was born, she grew up hearing stories about Powers and being inspired by her grandmother’s memories. “It made it easier to make it a lot more personal, if we made it in honor of our grandparents, because then it’s like, ‘We’ve all been there. We’ve all been affected by this,’” Kelly said. John Milton, a teacher at OMHS and sponsor for the Color Run, said while he knew Shealy and Kelly were hard workers, the idea of two seniors pulling together a 5K in their last month of school raised a few eyebrows. Once he heard their personal connections to the cause, however, those concerns dissipated. “That’s when I knew that it would work, somehow, some way,” Milton said. The next year, after Shealy and Kelly had graduated and left for college, Milton decided to continue the run and other students in SGA supported the idea. “We sort of have this path, this history, and for me I think it was just the relationship I had built with Mandy and Mollie, and the relationships they built with other students in SGA,” Milton said. “Everyone felt the sense that they wanted to do it for them.” The next year, the Color Run was held in honor of Shealy and Kelly’s grandparents, and money raised went both to Relay for Life and the UAB Comprehensive Cancer Center. Shealy was not surprised that Milton held a second run because he is always dedicated to continuing projects and improving events, she said, but was touched to hear it was held for her grandfather and Kelly’s grandmother. “Milton, he is very active, always thinking of ways to better it,” Shealy said. “I think the only thing that surprised me was that he was willing to name it in honor of our grandparents.” When people come out to run, Milton said they’re not just supporting UAB’s cancer research center.
“
Runners celebrate the end of the Oak Mountain Color Run by throwing extra color powder. Photo courtesy of Oak Mountain High School.
It’s incredible, it’s heartwarming, and it’s so much more than I can put into words.
“It’s a cool story to be a part of because I think everybody who participates in the Color Run, they’re part of that story,” Milton said. “They’re part of that community event that is staying local.” The run, which now takes place around the lake at Oak Mountain State Park, remains completely student led and organized. Providing the ability to organize a big event, Milton said, is something that is beneficial for OMHS students. “It’s still local, it’s still student run,” he said. “Our goal has never been to be a big
”
MOLLIE SHEALY
national event or make $50,000-$60,000. We know there’s sort of a limit to the size of this event, but we like keeping it run by high school students because it’s such a great experience.” The students are responsible for ordering supplies and merchandise like shirts for the event, in addition to reaching out to sponsors. This year’s committee includes committee chair Emily Anne Beauchaine and member Kaitlin Manolio, who said it has been interesting to see the event grow over the years.
When the first run took place, Manolio was a freshman at OMHS and Beauchaine was in middle school. “Every year, there’s a new vendor or a new group of people coming into SGA to help, and they always have new ideas to bring to the table,” Manolio said. “That’s really neat, to see it transform. … It’s really cool to see something two high school girls started impact our community so much.” While the event has grown in number of participants each year, this year the price has dropped from $40 to $25. They chose to decrease the registration cost so that more students could participate, Beauchaine said. The price no longer includes a T-shirt, but when runners pre-register, they will have the option to purchase a Color Run T-shirt as well as other items such as headbands and socks. As organizers, Beauchaine and Manolio are normally too busy to participate in the run, but said they alway hear positive reviews. “I think it just brings one of those events ... that is for any age,” Manolio said. “Any ages can come, it gives back to the community, but it’s also very fun.” “It’s something different that you don’t get to do every day,” Beauchaine said. “You’re in Oak Mountain State Park, you’re getting colored powder thrown at you. It’s just a fun event, and all our money goes to UAB cancer research.” Looking back on the last three races, which have gone from losing $200 in 2013 to raising around $5,000 in 2016, Shealy said it’s an honor to see the community continue to support the cause. “To see it grow, and to have family members, I’ve had family members from Kentucky come down,” she said. “It’s incredible, it’s heartwarming, and it’s so much more than I can put into words.” “People realize this isn’t just a color run,” Kelly said. “This is a color run to raise money to help end cancer.” This year’s OMHS Color Run 5K is set for March 18 at Oak Mountain State Park. Registration starts at 8 a.m., and the run will begin at 9 a.m. In addition to the online registration fee, participants must pay the park entrance fee for OMSP. For more information, go to oakmountaincolorrun.com.
280 Living neighborly news & entertainment
SECTION
B MARCH 2017
Events B4 Community B6 School House B10 Medical Guide B14
following her
PASSION OMHS alumna Ryland Lovvorn continues to grow in her art By ERICA TECHO
A
rt is something Ryland Lovvorn has always enjoyed but for a while did not actively pursue. She wanted to be a nurse for most of her life, but when it came down to applying for college, she had to reassess that goal. “I started looking at schools based on nursing and when it boiled down to it, I had to sit back and think, ‘Do I want to go to medical school and do nursing, or do I want to enhance this love of art I already have?’” said Lovvorn, an Oak Mountain High School graduate and Samford University senior. She ultimately decided to pursue a future in art, “which was a very scary decision, but I’m glad I did it,” Lovvorn said. She now runs her own business, called Ryland Creative. She said she enjoyed coloring books and creative activities
See LOVVORN | page B13 Ryland Lovvorn is an Oak Mountain High School graduate and current Samford University student. Photo courtesy of Ryland Lovvorn.
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March 2017 • B3
B4 • March 2017
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Events
March offers options for action By ERICA TECHO By the time March rolls around, many people have let their New Year’s resolutions fall to the wayside. Whether those resolutions involved getting in shape, staying active or giving back to the community, the organizations along the 280 corridor are providing several options to get back in the swing of things. From family-friendly fun runs to a high-intensity 50K, here are a few options to get active or get involved this month. Judy M. Merritt 5K March 4 8 a.m. Veterans Park Jefferson State Community College is once again hosting the Judy M. Merritt Memorial 5K this March. The event, set for March 4, also includes a 1-mile fun run/walk and family day following the races. All money raised at the event goes toward the Judy M. Merritt Memorial Scholarship fund at Jefferson State. The run first started in 2015, in honor of the school’s 50th anniversary and longtime president Judy Merritt, who died in 2014. The run will be held in Veterans Park, next door to Jefferson State’s Shelby-Hoover campus. Registration costs increased after Feb. 17 to $30 for the 5K, $20 for the 1-mile fun run/walk and $20 for the “virtual race” or sleep-in 5K option. Day-of registration will be available at the same cost. Race registration will kick off at 6:45 a.m., with the 5K starting at 8 a.m. The 1-mile option will start at 9 a.m., and an award ceremony and door prize presentation will follow. Awards will be given to the top three male and female overall winners, and there will be other awards for groups and Jefferson State students, staff or faculty. Following race activities, the family day will continue until noon. It includes a bouncy slide, balloon art, glitter tattoos, field day activities and free food. Families are asked to register online to allow for adequate planning. For more information or to register, go to jeffersonstate.edu and search “Judy M. Merritt Memorial 5K.”
The Judy M. Merritt 5K will take place at Veterans Park on March 4. The run is in memory of Merritt, a former president of Jefferson State Community College. Photo courtesy of David Bobo.
Superhero 5K March 11 9 a.m.-1 p.m. Oak Mountain State Park This year, Owens House is looking for superheroes. Owens House, Shelby County Children’s Advocacy Center, is a Columbiana-based nonprofit that aims to provide free and confidential support to child victims of abuse as well as their non-offending
family members. It provides resources for the child’s safety and to meet the family’s needs. The nonprofit is hosting its third annual Superhero 5K and fun run. The run will take place at Oak Mountain State Park, starting at the Dogwood Pavilion, and all participants are encouraged to don their best superhero capes. In addition to the 5K and 1-mile fun run, there is a free family fun fest that is open to the public. The fun fest includes games,
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March 2017 • B5 hope about the fight against cancer. “Brenda’s really done a great job with making it a fun, family event,” said Lauren Nichols, marketing and communications integration manager at One Nineteen. “I think just over the years, it’s really become such a celebration. It’s a lot of fun for people to come out and bring their whole family.” In addition to the 5K, the 1-mile fun run has developed into a color run, where participants will be covered in colored powder throughout the race. St. Vincent’s One Nineteen also offers health screenings and services throughout the day. Visitors can get $99 mammograms as well as free blood pressure screenings, free vision screenings, free massages for runners and free physical therapy consultations. There will also be a booth set up by One Nineteen’s spa. At last year’s event, the spa had a “sunscreen bar” where runners could try different sunscreens and learn about its importance. The run is Saturday, March 18, and starts at 8 a.m. Day-of registration and packet pickup will start at 7 a.m., and the 1-mile fun run will start at 9 a.m. The event also includes a survivor celebration and balloon release. The cost is $30 for either the 5K or fun run through March 17. For more information, go to runsignup.com and search “conquer cancer run.”
Oak Mountain 50K March 25, 7:30 a.m. sharp Oak Mountain State Park Anyone looking for a real challenge can opt for this year’s Oak Mountain State Park 50K. This is the 18th year for the 50K, which takes participants on a course through forested hills and up climbs with around 600 foot elevation gains. Runners will Runners at the Conquer Cancer 5K at St. Vincent's One Nineteen. The annual race benefits the American Cancer Society. Photo courtesy of St. Vincent's One Nineteen. pass by Peavine Falls and reach their highest elevation of 1,260 feet at Shackleford Point. Registration for the race opened on June 1, face painting, food, inflatables, vendors and other activities. people — is also available. Day-of registration will be $5 extra 2016, and the race has a strict 150-runner limit to ensure there Runners receive lunch and a T-shirt, and there will be lunch per person. available for non-runners for $2. To register, go to active.com and search Owens House Super- is enough at the aid station and enough post-race food for all participants. The race sold out early in 2016. Late registration starts at 8:30 a.m. on March 11, the day of the hero 5K & Fun Run. Race entry is $55 for a T-shirt, with the cost increasing to $75 run, and the 5K starts at 9 a.m. The family fun fest will continue after March 1, and $45 without a T-shirt or $65 after March 1. throughout the early afternoon, until 1 p.m. Pets are welcome Conquer Cancer Run Oak Mountain State Park’s $5 admission fee is not included in to the event, and the parking and entrance fee at Oak Mountain March 18 the race entry cost. State Park will be waived for participants. 8 a.m. Following the race, there will be race commemorative pub Registration is available online and costs $25 for the 5K, $20 St. Vincent’s One Nineteen for the fun run and either $15, $25 or $50 for “couch potato” St. Vincent’s One Nineteen is hosting the 13th annual Brenda glasses for all finishers and awards for the top three male and options, which do not include a race registration, just T-shirts Ladun Conquer Cancer 5K and 1-mile Fun Run. The run raises female finishers. There will also be a cookout following the race. For more information, go to oakmtn50k.com. and varying levels of donations. A team option — $100 for five money for the American Cancer Society and aims to represent
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280 Living
Community Local Distinguished Young Women accepting applications for its program
Gary Nelson of Hendrick Chevrolet, Russell P. Redford Jr. with Folds of Honor, Mark Davis with Vettes 4 Vets, Darlene Tysinger, V4V board member and John O’Malley with Vettes for Vets at a check presentation. Photo courtesy of Russell Redford.
New golf tournament to benefit Folds of Honor foundation By ERICA TECHO March offers a new opportunity to give back through the game of golf. Still Serving Veterans is hosting its first golf tournament — The Patriot Shootout — at Greystone Country Club. The tournament will benefit Folds of Honor, a nonprofit organization that provides educational scholarships for children and spouses of military service members who have died or were disabled. The tournament is part of Patriot Golf Day, a national event started in 2007. Typically taking place over Labor Day weekend, thousands of courses participate by hosting tournaments that benefit Folds of Honor, according to the nonprofit’s website. This inaugural tournament is a first step toward establishing a Folds of
Honor chapter in the Birmingham area, said Still Serving Veterans regional director Al Wood. The tournament is March 27. Registration opens at 10 a.m., and opening ceremonies start at 11:30 a.m. There will be dinner, an awards ceremony and live auction following the tournament. Cost to participate or sponsor the event ranges, but for more information, contact rredford@patriotshootoutal.com. There also will be an inaugural Patriot’s Dinner March 26. Sarah White, the first Folds of Honor scholarship recipient for Alabama and a 2011 graduate of Auburn University, will be the speaker at the dinner. The dinner reception starts at 6 p.m., and tickets are $195 for an individual seat or $350 for a couple.
The Distinguished Young Women program of Jefferson County is accepting applications from high school girls graduating in 2018 and residing in Jefferson County. The deadline for receiving applications is March 5. Wu The program (formerly Jefferson County’s Junior Miss) will take place July 21-22 at Vestavia Hills High School. Interested girls may visit DistinguishedYW. org and click on the icon “Apply Now” to receive an application, or they may contact Chairman Eddie Macksoud at jefferson@distinguishedYW.org or 907-0210. There is no entry fee. Participants compete in the categories of fitness, self expression, interview, scholastics and talent. Last year more than $10,000 in cash-tuition scholarships was awarded and more than $489,000 in college-granted scholarships. The Jefferson County representative will advance to the Distinguished Young Women Program of Alabama in Montgomery, where she will compete for more than $40,000 in cash-tuition scholarships and more than $1,000,000 in
college-granted scholarships. The current Distinguished Young Woman of Jefferson County is Sherry Wu, a senior at Vestavia Hills High School. Founded in 1958 in Mobile, America’s Junior Miss, now Distinguished Young Women, is the largest and oldest national scholarship program for high school girls. During its 60 years of operation, the program has provided life-changing experiences for more than 700,000 young women and has awarded more than $93 million in cash scholarships to young women across the nation. Distinguished Young Women is a scholarship program that inspires high school girls to develop their full, individual potential through a fun, transformative experience that culminates in a celebratory showcase of their accomplishments. National sponsors include the city of Mobile, Mobile County, Encore Rehabilitation, Alabama Power Foundation, Regions Financial Corporation, Master Boat Builders, Sirote & Permutt, Barbara Barrington Jones Family Foundation and Wintzell’s Oyster House. – Submitted by Distinguished Young Women.
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Troop 533’s Michael Coby receives Eagle Scout rank
Michael Coby is a member of Troop 533, chartered by Oak Mountain Presbyterian Church. Photo courtesy of Cliff Hearn.
Michael Coby, a member of Troop 533 chartered by Oak Mountain Presbyterian Church in Shelby County and under the leadership of Scoutmaster Mark Clark, was recently awarded the rank of Eagle Scout by the Boy Scouts of America. Michael’s scouting career began in 2007 as a first-grader and Tiger Cub in Cub Pack 533. Michael enjoyed five years in the Cub Scout Pack, completed the God and Family Program in 2011, participated in four Cub/Webelos Day Camps, competed in five Pinewood Derbies, spent the night on the USS Alabama battleship and earned the highest award in Cub Scouting,
the Arrow of Light in early 2012. Michael crossed over to Boy Scout Troop 533 in spring 2012 and has been to four summer camps at Camp Sequoyah, as well as many monthly outings with the troop that included spelunking, horseback riding, shooting, snorkeling, deep sea fishing, hiking, canoeing, river rafting, snow skiing, camping, cooking and much more. During a trip to the USS Yorktown aircraft carrier in Charleston, he was honored to help the U.S. Park Service fold one of the flags flying over Fort Sumter. Michael has served as a Den Chief and Scribe in his troop, and served as a Head
Chorister with the Birmingham Boys Choir from 2014-15. Michael completed National Youth Leadership Training (NYLT) in June 2016. He is a sophomore at Oak Mountain High School and plays the alto saxophone and bassoon in the band. Special thanks to Mrs. Christy Holt, Oak Mountain Middle School’s social studies teacher, for sponsoring Michael’s Eagle Scout project to refurbish a life-size replica train railcar for use in teaching the sixth-grade Holocaust unit. Michael is the son of Mark and Merrilee Coby. – Submitted by Mark and Merrilee Coby.
OLLI chapters aim to offer seniors opportunity to learn Several days each week, a group of local Birmingham area seniors can be found in a classroom enjoying the opportunity to learn new skills or gain knowledge on a particular topic. The teacher is knowledgeable and, typically, enthusiastic and entertaining. The “students” are attentive, actively engaged and having fun. They are members of the The Osher Lifelong Learning Institute (OLLI) of Greater Birmingham, which was started more than three years ago. It is one of about 120 OLLI chapters that span all 50 states, as well as the District of Columbia. Each of the chapters is affiliated with a university. OLLI of Greater Birmingham, with approximately 200 members, is under the College of Continuing Studies at the University of Alabama. The university supports chapters in Tuscaloosa and Gadsden, as well as Greensboro and Pickens County, with approximately 1,300 total members. In addition, Auburn University also supports an OLLI chapter in the state. Nationally, OLLI was started in 2001 through an educational grant from the Bernard Osher Foundation with the goal of supporting lifelong learning for mature adults. Numerous
studies have demonstrated benefits to seniors who continue to be adult learners and stay mentally active and socially engaged. “Osher Institutes fulfill the promise of education in its best sense: To develop the mind and spirit for a lifetime of purpose and human flourishing,” according to the Osher National Resource Center, based at Northwestern University. With this in mind, the OLLI chapters strive to provide members the opportunity to learn, travel and embrace life in a fun and engaging manner. No tests, no grades, no stress ― just learning for the joy of learning. Just like college, each semester brings the opportunity for members to enroll in new courses that each individual is interested in. The choices of topics are wide ranging. Some courses from the Birmingham chapter include: “What Archaeology Teaches Us About Our Religions and Ourselves”; “American Policies on Economics, Tax, Budget and Social Welfare”; “Chefs and Foods From Other Nations”; “Hands-on Training in Smartphone and Tablet Use”; and “The Rise and Fall of Napoleon Bonaparte.” These are just some
examples of the 15 courses offered in the spring semester. Although there is individual course variability, the courses typically meet once a week for four sessions, each lasting an hour and a half or two hours. OLLI members choose whatever course or courses they want to attend. In addition to courses, each semester offers new opportunities for single session “bonus” programs. There are 14 of these programs offered in Birmingham for the spring. Some of the topics are “Tuskegee Airmen,” “Ask a Vet About Your Pet,” “Go Wild for Native Plants” and “Liver Eating Jeremiah Johnson.” Courses and bonus programs help develop new talents, such a flower arranging or learning a new skill such as chess. Field trip opportunities are also part of the OLLI offerings for members. These can be half-day trips (“Backstage Tour of the Alabama Theatre”) or overnight (“Birds, Beach and Bellingrath”), with more than 20 trips available in the spring semester. The OLLI educational courses and bonus programs are taught by individuals highly knowledgeable on the topic, and many OLLI members end up volunteering to
teach based on their work experience or personal interests. OLLI is a member-driven program, led by volunteer members, and provides opportunities for learning and rich collaboration with other adults. OLLI members often choose to serve on committees to arrange social events, establish curriculum and promote awareness of OLLI to the community. Because of the financial support from the Bernard Osher Foundation, annual OLLI membership is only $25, which includes participation in any or all of the bonus programs and socials offered throughout the year. For OLLI chapters of UA, the single semester fee also allows a member to register for courses at the other chapters, including Tuscaloosa, where there are 80 courses offered in the spring semester. OLLI of GB cordially invites and welcomes any interested senior adult in the area to come and participate in a bonus program or a class session. Please take a look at our website, olli. ua.edu, for a complete list of bonus programs and classes, including locations and times. – Submitted by Glenn Morgan, OLLI.
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March 2017 • B9
Jack Hood. Photo courtesy of Jack Hood.
Hood named president-elect of Birmingham Inn of Court Jack B. Hood, 69, an assistant U.S. attorney in the Civil Division, Northern District of Alabama, is the president-elect of the Birmingham Inn of Court and will serve in that capacity for the next two years. Hood graduated from Jordan Vocational High School in Columbus, Georgia, in 1966. From the University of Georgia, he received an A.B. degree in 1969 and a J.D. degree in 1971. He received a diploma in International Law in 1972 from the University of Cambridge (Darwin College) in the United Kingdom. He is a member of the Alabama, District of Columbia and Georgia bars. He is a former member of the Canal Zone and Tennessee bars. He is a member of the Maritime Law Association of the United States, the American Bar Association, the Birmingham Bar Association and the Birmingham Inn of Court. He has been a JAG Captain in the U.S. Air Force, and he served his active duty in the Canal Zone in Panama. He has been a law professor and a private practitioner. He is an instructor and lecturer for civil courses taught at the U.S. Department of Justice’s National Advocacy Center in Columbia, South Carolina. He is the author and co-author of 46 law books (new editions included in this number), with four books currently published by Thomson Reuters/West. Another of his current books is from West Academic Publishing. He is also the author of six novels. He enjoys folk and bluegrass music, and he plays the fivestring banjo. – Submitted by Jack Hood.
Terry Crutchfield, Connie Cox, Teresa Pfefferkorn, Cat-n-Bird owners Matt and Robyn Lyons and Lori Gronek. Photo courtesy of Lynette Clemmons.
Highland Lakes Women’s Club holds wine tasting at Cat-n-Bird The Highland Lakes Women’s Club met on Tuesday, Feb. 7, at the home of Fran Stainback, president. About 50 members enjoyed a wine tasting shared by Matt and Robyn Lyons of Cat-n-Bird Winery. Their specially crafted chardonnay and a liebfraumilch were created in the soon-to-be-open winery located off of Old Highway 280 in Chelsea. Door prizes, donated by the Birmingham Zoo, Opera Birmingham, Red Mountain Theatre, Everyday Treasures for You and Cat-n-Bird Winery, were
presented to raffle ticket winners. Following a brief business meeting and the presentation by Matt and Robyn Lyons, members enjoyed time socializing and snacking on refreshments. The next general meeting of the club will be April 4 at 7 p.m. Membership is open to residents of Highland Lakes subdivision in North Shelby County. More information on the club and the neighborhood can be found at highlandlakeswc.com. – Submitted by Lynette Clemmons.
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School House
Theater students place in state competition By LEAH INGRAM EAGLE
students their entire four years of high school, and it’s amazing to watch them grow. She looks forward to seeing their progress after high school. “They’re going to do so well (after high school),” she said. “This class has some real talented people in it.”
Two local high schools competed and placed in the 76th Walter Trumbauer Secondary Theatre Festival at UNA. It featured more than 100 schools across the state and more than 2,000 students competing in one-act plays. After advancing from the district competition in November, students from both Chelsea High School and Spain Park High School walked away with group and individual awards. More than 1,700 students competed in 30 events, in both novice and varsity categories at the state theater competition in December 2016. The teachers and several of the students talked about their experience:
CHELSEA HIGH SCHOOL
The students from Chelsea High School performed “The Yellow Boat,” the story of 8-year-old Benjamin Saar, who contracted the AIDS virus from a bad blood transfusion and died in 1987. His father, David, took his son’s story and turned it into a play. The show also featured the drawings Benjamin created as his health deteriorated. Chelsea theater teacher Francie Gardner said she does a lot of research when selecting shows. She looks for ones that will do well in competition, are well written and have good character development. Although she said it is often difficult to find all of these in a one-act play, she felt “The Yellow Boat” was a good fit for her students. “My husband was sick, and we were reading it together in the hospital, and we were both crying at the end,” Gardner said. “The kids trusted me, and we went with it. I have to give them kudos.” The day before opening night of their
SPAIN PARK
The cast and crew of Spain Park High School’s one-act play “Martin Thurber, Boy Wonder.” Photo courtesy of Eric St. John.
performance at Chelsea High School, Gardner’s husband died. The show did go on, and the students rallied together to make it happen. “The show was not together, and we were allowed to spend the entire next day in the auditorium. We spent the whole day rehearsing,” said Josh Eubanks, who played Benjamin in the play and won Best Actor, One-Act Festival at the Trumbauer Festival. “When we first got the show, we thought no one was going to like it,” Eubanks said. “I didn’t think the audience was going to get the concept of an almost 20-year-old playing an 8-year-old boy. Eubanks also won first place for Solo Acting Male Contemporary Comedic Individual Event for his own original script. “It was a mix of everything I didn’t like about
the Trumbauer Festival; I wrote it a couple of days before we went to district. It was the very last award announced. It took me three minutes to get to the stage because I was shaking and crying,” he said. Other winners included Brantley Waller, who played Benjamin’s child therapist in the play. She won All Star Cast, as well as second place, Solo Acting Female Contemporary Dramatic Individual Event. Kyra Harris won third place for makeup design, for her drawings of the play’s eight characters design and makeup based on each. The students said theirs was one of the most talked-about shows at the competition. “People don’t see the work that goes on behind the scenes,” Waller said. “It’s literal blood, sweat and tears and months of prep.” Gardner said she teaches some of her
The two theater departments share a connection. Spain Park theater teacher Eric St. John previously taught at Chelsea, and Francie Gardner took over the program when he left. Coming in third place, this was the fifth year in a row Spain Park had placed in the top three in the state. They also had nine individual events place in the top three in state. The students wrote their own original play, “Martin Thurber, Boy Wonder.” They also created the costumes and wrote the music. St. John said he was extremely proud of his students. “It makes me happy. Here is something they completely created, and it placed in the top three in the state,” St. John said. The play was about a young boy who was bullied at school and takes a trip into his own imagination. He becomes the sidekick to his favorite comic book hero and helps him fight the villain. It’s about learning to stand up for yourself and do the right thing, win or lose. The day before the competition, they performed for the third-graders at Rocky Ridge Elementary. St. John said it gave his students the energy they needed to perform at the competition. Max Johnson, who played Captain Nebula, the hero of the main character, won Best Supporting Actor at the Trumbauer Festival. He also designed and drew the costumes.
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Spain Park students perform in “Martin Thurber, Boy Wonder,” a play was about a young boy who was bullied at school and takes a trip into his own imagination.
He said the process of writing the play was fun for the class, and they enjoyed doing a comedy this year. “We thought it would be a break from a dramatic play, and they wanted to make people laugh,” Johnson said. “I think it set us apart from the other schools. We enjoy writing them and having a say in what we’re doing; it sets you apart from everyone else. Writing your own stories is more enjoyable.” Barrett Bennett and Cameron Ferguson both won awards for One Act All-Star Cast. Ferguson played the role of Martin Thurber, and Bennett played the bully who transforms into the main villain in the comic book world. Johnson said St. John respects hard work and has a vision for each play. “He knows when to have fun and also when they need to act like a professional theater company,” he said. “He calls us to be more than just a high school theater production.”
One Act Awards ► Best Actor: Josh Eubanks (Chelsea) “The Yellow Boat “ ► Best Supporting Actor: Max Johnson (Spain Park) “Martin Thurber” ► One Act All-Star Cast: Brantley Waller (Chelsea), “The Yellow Boat”; Cameron Ferguson (Spain Park), “Martin Thurber”; Barrett Bennett (Spain Park), “Martin Thurber” ► Best in Show: “Martin Thurber, Boy Wonder” (Spain Park)
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March 2017 • B13
Ryland Lovvorn is a mixed media artist, and she works with prints, weaving, photography and other media. Photo courtesy of Ryland Lovvorn.
She also saw creative people who were surrounded and supported by the comCONTINUED from page B1 munity, which she said demonstrated that art is a viable career path. She felt similar support when she as a kid, but the door to the art world was not really opened until she trans- — surrounded by other artists — was ferred from Westminster School at Oak featured during Birmingham Art Crawl Mountain to Oak Mountain High School in 2016 and sold more pieces than she expected. in her sophomore year. Other times those ideas have been “It was a hard transition [between schools], but the art classes at Oak supported were when she helped create Mountain definitely helped kind of open costumes and props and paint faces for her sorority in Step Sing, an annual event that world to creativity,” Lovvorn said. Her art teacher helped inspire her and at Samford. “This is what I’m gifted at, and I’m other students, including the ones who did not really want to take art, Lovvorn going to use that,” Lovvorn said. “Kind said. The classes also provided a chance of getting to see my gifts used and appreciated has definitely helped.” to dabble in different types of art. After graduating in May, she said She also kicked off her Etsy shop in she hopes to take high school, which time to refine and Lovvorn said was develop her art, pretty much a way but in the long to make money. This is something I’m term, Lovvorn “It very much passionate about, hopes to use her started out as, ‘OK, skills in art therwhat does everyand if it is, the Lord apy. Her parents’ one like? What’s has clearly planned recovery ministry, selling right now?’ called Route 1520, … so I was doing it out for me to take helped encourage floral patterns on it full force and stop her to use her artcups and paintwork as a way to ings and that sort worrying about what help others. of stuff. Not really everyone’s thinking. “You can’t help stuff I’m super RYLAND LOVVORN but just see the passionate about,” Lord all around,” Lovvorn said. she said. “DefiSince she nitely my faith has decided to fully pursue art, however, Lovvorn has grown infiltrated it, and that’s why I want to be more comfortable in her role as an artist. able to use it as a therapy and to help Her courses at Samford University have people in the recovery process. I definitely helped hone her art, she said, but being want to use it in a way that gives back.” Her parents also inspired her to consurrounded by students with set education tracks and career paths — those tinue with art, despite any doubt she had in nursing school or pursuing business about it. “If it weren’t for my parents, I probdegrees — can make the open world of ably wouldn’t even be doing art right art kind of intimidating. “For a long time, I was very hesitant to now,” she said. “Just because my dad take on, ‘I’m an artist. This is what I’m being a creative, my mom being a going to do. This is what I’m passionate dreamer — they’re the reason I really about,’” Lovvorn said. She even pursued stuck with it.” As an artist, Lovvorn said she hopes other majors as ways to apply her art, such as architecture, but did not find any other artists, especially young ones, feel of those paths as fulfilling. A study trip encouraged to pursue their gifts. While abroad to London during fall 2016, how- actively working toward a career involving art was “better late than never,” Lovever, helped calm some of her worries. “After London, I was like — I can do vorn said she wants to make sure others this,” she said. “It doesn’t matter what do not let what other people say or expect people say. This is something I’m pas- to get in their way. “Because I really think I let that hinder sionate about, and if it is, the Lord has clearly planned it out for me to take it my process, and I think if I had just taken full force and stop worrying about what it full force and just gone with it, I’d be interested to kind of see where that everyone’s thinking.” The semester-long trip to London was Ryland would be,” she said. “I would just inspiring for a variety of reasons, Lov- encourage young artists and creatives to vorn said. During that trip, she was able get in a creative community.” For more on Lovvorn’s work, go to to pursue more photography and develop rylandlovvorn.com. that skill.
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B14 • March 2017
MEDICAL SERVICES DIRECTORY SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION
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MEDICAL SERVICES DIRECTORY • SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION
March 2017 • B15
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205-871-9661
alabamaallergy.com
Q: What is an allergist? A: Many people don’t know when to see an allergist or what conditions they specifically treat. A board-certified allergist/ immunologist is a doctor who specializes in allergy, asthma and immunology. Allergists treat both pediatric and adult patients and specialize in the diagnosis and treatment of allergies — environmental, food, drug, insect — asthma, chronic cough, hay fever, skin disorders — eczema and hives — chronic infections and immunologic disorders. Q: Why should I see an allergist instead of my primary physician or another specialist? A: There can be confusion about when to see an allergist versus a primary care physician, ENT, pulmonologist, dermatologist or gastroenterologist. An allergist offers nonsurgical treatment options. Their goal is to identify the underlying cause of your symptoms or abnormal immune response. All of our allergists/ immunologists are certified by the American Board of Allergy and Immunology (ABAI) and have completed at least nine years of medical training, including their fellowship
in allergy and immunology. Allergists are the only type of providers who receive the specialized training to perform and interpret allergy testing, treat complex allergic diseases, asthma and prescribe allergen immunotherapy (allergy shots). Always talk to your primary care physician about your symptoms. If your symptoms are severe or persist after initial
treatment, you may be referred to a specialist. Q: When should I see an allergist? A: Many times we deal with our symptoms without seeking medical attention because they aren’t severe; however, allergies, asthma and immune disorders can be serious, and should be treated seriously.
Many people with different allergic diseases simply don’t realize how severe their condition may be, how much better they could feel with treatment or how their overall quality of life could be improved. Consult an allergist/ immunologist: ► If you have an allergic reaction to a food, insect bite
or sting; ► If you need accurate testing and need to find out what you are, and are not, allergic to ► If your asthma causes frequent symptoms, affects school/work/sleep/exercise, or leads to frequent doctor or emergency room visits, or if an asthma attack has led to hospitalization ► If you have allergy symptoms that affect your lifestyle or lead to recurrent sinus infections ► If your medications (overthe-counter or prescribed) are not helpful in treating allergic rhinitis, asthma or cause unwanted side effects ► If you have hives (urticaria) or swelling (angioedema) ► If you have moderate to severe atopic dermatitis (especially if an infant or child) ► If you desire to reduce your medications or wish to improve, and possibly cure, your allergic rhinitis or asthma through allergy shots ► If you need antibiotics at least once a year or you have sinus infections, recurrent colds or chronic bronchitis ► If you want the most up-to-date and individualized treatment options for your immunological condition. Q: How do I make an appointment? A: Call us at 205-871-9661 or visit us at alabamaallergy.com.
B16 • March 2017
MEDICAL SERVICES DIRECTORY • SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION
SCHAEFFER EYE CENTER Schaeffer Eye Center
www.SchaefferEyeCenter.com
888-987-2020
Q: What is the Schaeffer EyeCare experience? A: Schaeffer Eye Center is a familyowned and operated optometry practice founded over 35 years ago with the mission of providing the very best in cutting edge vision care and style in the region. The Schaeffer EyeCare Experience is based on three core values: science, style and service, which enables us to take care of you and your entire family. Our doctors, clinicians, patient advocates and eyewear consultants are dedicated to provide you comprehensive eyecare, fashion-forward eyewear and exemplary service. Q: What makes Schaeffer Eye Center unique? A: There are many attributes that make Schaeffer Eye Center a unique company. Patient care is at the root of everything we do, which is why Schaeffer Eye Center has a wide spectrum of services, convenient locations and office hours. What makes us really stand out is our team. The Schaeffer team builds and sustains relationships with every patient from check-in to check-out. We know insurance is confusing, and Schaeffer Eye Center patient advocates understand your insurance and billing process to eliminate confusion and stress. Schaeffer Eye Center doctors and clinicians provide a thorough and efficient eye exam to ensure your eyes are healthy and seeing well, and Schaeffer Eye Center eyewear consultants personally help you through the selection processes of frames and sunglasses for your medical needs, facial features, lifestyle and budget. Q: What eyecare services does Schaeffer Eye Center provide? A: Schaeffer Eye Center has a highly trained staff of doctors and clinicians to provide comprehensive eye exams that include advanced medical testing for the entire family. The integration and use of advanced technology is an important part of what separates us from other optometry practices. We are able to detect and provide treatment options for glaucoma, diabetic eye disease and macular degeneration. Investing in advanced treatment options such as LipiFlow allows us to improve the quality of life for patients living with chronic dry eye conditions. Schaeffer Eye Center’s Pediatric Department offers vision therapy, myopia control, concussion management and sports and reading acceleration. Schaeffer LaserVision provides the latest in LASIK surgery with one of the most experienced surgeons in the world conducting surgery on more than 80,000 patients, including 300 eye doctors. Schaeffer Eye Center also provides the largest selection of contact lenses
DR. JACK L. SCHAEFFER,
PRESIDENT AND CEO OF SCHAEFFER EYE CENTER
including toric, multifocal and specialty lenses, and the best selection of eyewear including exclusive brands such as SAMA, SALT. Optics, Robert Marc, Barton Perreira and l.a. Eyeworks.
Q: What does Schaeffer Eye Center support in the community? A: As a local business, Schaeffer Eye Center truly embraces the communitycentric philosophy by supporting many organizations, nonprofits and events. Schaeffer Eye Center is a proud partner of The Birmingham Zoo, supporting the Schaeffer Eye Center Lorikeet Aviary and Wildlife Show. Schaeffer Eye Center commissioned the first piece of art at Red Mountain Park with the addition of Schaeffer Specs to accompany the Schaeffer Eye Center Segway Tours. It is vital for the growth and betterment of our communities to support what is important to our staff and patients. We contribute to numerous nonprofits and organizations including the Arthritis Foundation, Lupus Foundation and American Cancer Society, Camp SAM, Children’s Harbor, Junior League of Birmingham, school athletic programs and Alabama Symphony Orchestra to name a few. Schaeffer Eye Center is also the title sponsor for the Village 2 Village 10K in Mountain Brook on March 11th, where we will also donate eyecare services to economically disadvantaged children in the community on behalf of registrants.
280 Living
280Living.com
MEDICAL SERVICES DIRECTORY • SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION
March 2017 • B17
B18 • March 2017
MEDICAL SERVICES DIRECTORY • SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION
280 Living
SOMERBY ST. VINCENT’S ONE NINETEEN 200 One Nineteen Boulevard
800-914-4870
somerbyseniorliving.com
Q: Many people are curious about what sets Somerby apart. What’s the “Somerby difference” in what you provide to your residents? A: Because our company mission is to inspire and nurture successful living each and every day, Somerby is a place that is full of life. We look for ways throughout the year to inspire and delight our residents and their families. All of our programming is designed to help our residents “Discover Their Spark.” We want our residents to have more opportunities to try new things and continue lifelong learning. Q: So how do your residents discover that spark, and how is Somerby involved? A: We encourage and support positive life choices for our residents. This includes fostering meaningful relationships with not only each other, but also with their families and honoring the history and traditions that are part of their lives. Because of that, we encourage families to visit their loved ones on a regular basis, and we even provide some ways to make that easier on everyone, such as providing guest-suite accommodations at a reasonable price. But we also encourage our residents to explore, grow and find some fun along the way. They meet people who share their interests, form friendships and find ways to share their talents with everyone. Q: Why is U.S. 280 an ideal location for a senior living community? Do you work with any other organizations in the area? A: The 280 corridor has several wooded pockets that make an ideal and beautiful living community. Not only is our location lovely, but our residents also enjoy several perks of living in the area, such as the convenience of off-site shopping and restaurant options. We also have a partnership with St. Vincent’s Health System and offer exclusive, complimentary memberships for our residents to One Nineteen Health
and Wellness Center. Q: There are many amenities off-site, but do you offer anything special on-site for residents at your community? What can a resident do on a daily basis? A: Yes, in addition to our partnership with St. Vincent’s, we have many options to keep our residents active on site, such as our paved walking paths with LifeTrail exercise stations and recreational and social programming. For those who want to look as good as they feel, we also have a barbershop and day spa with hair styling and manicure/pedicure stations. And we believe our dining options are second to none. There’s white linen service at the Chateau Restaurant, casual cuisine at Café One Nineteen, a daily hot breakfast, champagne brunches on Sundays and O’Henry’s coffee. Recreational and social planning is important for keeping our residents active, so we schedule special events throughout the year. Q: What types of living and care
options are available? A: We offer several types of living and care options because there is a wide range of seniors, and their needs can vary from person to person. Those living options include Independent Living, Assisted Living, Memory Care, Respite Care and Therapy. Our residential living options come in several styles, and we offer spacious, open-concept apartment homes and one-, two- and threebedroom floor plans. Q: Why is it important to have a variety of living options available to seniors? A: Life can change, and their needs can change, and we want to ensure their care continues no matter what. Our whole community is designed to accommodate a diverse group of residents. We see this as a way to form long-term relationships with them. Once you become a resident of Somerby, you can remain one even if your health or housing needs change. Q: When is the best time for someone to consider moving to a
senior living community? What do you recommend? A: The best time to consider moving to a retirement community is when you’re able to make the decision for yourself and before a health problem affects your ability to qualify for residency. It’s also when you can take full advantage of all that our community offers. Many people say they wish they had moved to Somerby sooner. If you wait, you may miss out on many of our community’s unique amenities and activities. Of course, moving sooner means not having to care for a big house and lawn, letting go of worries about a future move and relieving your family of having to make decisions on your behalf. Most of our residents say it’s one of the best moves they’ve ever made because of their newfound freedom, enhanced security and expanded options for activities and engagement. When you visit a Somerby community, ask to meet some of our residents. They can give you further insight about how and why they made the decision to move to one of our communities.
280Living.com
MEDICAL SERVICES DIRECTORY • SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION
March 2017 • B19
B20 • March 2017
280 Living
MEDICAL SERVICES DIRECTORY • SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION
CAMELLIA WOMEN’S IMAGING 2068 Valleydale Road, Hoover
544-2828
almammogram.com
Monday-Friday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Q: How does your staff contribute to a great patient experience? A: The entire experience at Camellia is designed to minimize the anxiety associated with breast imaging and make the process as easy as possible. Everyone is friendly and willing to help. They will assist you in scheduling your appointment, getting your old studies, scheduling and arranging for any followup and communicating with your medical team. Q: How is Camellia Imaging different from other imaging centers? A: First, Camellia is one of the only places in Alabama that provides same-day results to all women getting mammograms. Dr. Monika Tataria will look at your mammogram while you are waiting. If anything additional is needed, such as extra mammogram views or an ultrasound, it will be done the same day. At Camellia, you don’t have to wait for a letter or phone call to get your results. Dr. Tataria speaks to every woman after her mammogram, discusses the results and answers any questions. Second, the physician reading your mammogram at Camellia is a fellowshiptrained specialist in breast imaging and breast biopsies. This means that the doctor has had additional training in woman’s imaging to ensure the latest, highest quality and proven techniques are used. Third, we have the latest Hologic 3-D technology that has been shown to increase breast cancer detection and decrease “call-backs.” We are also one of the few places in Alabama to have the capability to do 3-D guided biopsies.
Finally, we accept insurance but offer a concierge-type service. For example, we pick up and drop off films to your doctor’s office to save you the hassle. All follow-up care is coordinated by us.
is treatable. This is the biggest way we change lives. We also help better women’s lives in smaller ways on a daily basis by decreasing their anxiety so they can focus on other things in their busy lives.
Q: How do your services help change patients’ lives? A: Finding breast cancer early can change a woman’s life because early detection can turn what may have been a life-threatening disease into one that
Q: Dr. Tataria, what do you take pride in about your business? A: I take pride in the fact that as a woman, I understand women and have created place that treats them the way they deserve to be treated during a
stressful process. At Camellia, a woman’s feelings are always put first, and she is always treated with consideration and respect. Q: What would you like patients to know before coming into your office for an appointment? A: They should know that we really care and are going to do everything with the highest quality care in a setting that minimizes their stress.
280Living.com
March 2017 • B21
MEDICAL SERVICES DIRECTORY • SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION
CARDIOVASCULAR ASSOCIATES 3980 Colonnade Parkway
510-5000
cvapc.com
Monday-Friday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Q: How do I know if I have Peripheral Arterial Disease? A: PAD is caused by cholesterol build-up in the arteries outside of the heart, often in the legs. People with PAD frequently experience pain in their legs while walking. This most commonly occurs in the calves, but can also affect the thighs and buttocks. Other symptoms include leg fatigue and numbness. Severe PAD may lead to pain in the legs and feet at rest, particularly while trying to sleep at night. Severe PAD may also lead to non-healing wounds on the feet and legs, which, if left untreated, can lead to amputation. Certain people are at higher risk for PAD, including those with a history of cigarette smoking, diabetes or kidney disease.
CHRISTOPHER HUFF, MD, FACC CARDIOLOGIST
Q: When should I seek an evaluation by a Peripheral Arterial Disease specialist? A: If you are experiencing any of the above symptoms, you should bring them to the attention of your primary care doctor, who can then perform a physical exam to assess the presence and strength of pulses in your legs and feet, which can help make the diagnosis. Non-invasive testing to evaluate the blood flow in the legs can also assist in making the diagnosis. If this testing is abnormal, or if the diagnosis remains uncertain, referral to a
PAD specialist is appropriate. Q: What are my options for treatment? A: If symptoms are not lifestyle limiting and there are no wounds, PAD can initially be managed conservatively with medication and a walking program. If symptoms are severe or if there are non-healing wounds, a minimally invasive procedure may be required to improve blood flow to the legs and thus relieve symptoms. Patients can often be safely discharged home the same day of the procedure with only a few days of minor restrictions. Less often, severe PAD requires surgical intervention. Early referral to a PAD specialist for evaluation and management can help prevent the need for surgery. Q: If I am being told I need an amputation, are there other options? A: PAD is the most common cause of lower extremity amputation. With improvement in blood flow to the leg and foot, many major amputations can be avoided. Before undergoing major amputation, it is worth seeking the opinion of a PAD specialist who focuses on amputation prevention. Many patients are told they have no options when in fact therapeutic options do exist.
B22 • March 2017
280 Living
MEDICAL SERVICES DIRECTORY • SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION
HEALTHY SMILES OF BIRMINGHAM 100 Heatherbrooke Park Drive
991-9535
healthysmilesofbirmingham.com
Monday-Thursday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.; Friday, 8 a.m. to 2 p.m.
Q: What services do you offer? A: We offer comprehensive dental care for the entire family, including regular hygiene care, cosmetic dentistry, implant dentistry, same-day in-office crowns, gum disease treatment, TMJ and sleep apnea therapy. Q: What sets your office apart from other Birmingham area dentists? A: Our patients tell us that our customer service is what keeps bringing them back to see us! Sometimes businesses get into such a rush that they forget to take the time to listen well and get to know their clients or patients. We value good, old-fashioned quality customer care and strive to treat each of our patients like we would our own families and friends. Q: How does NuCalm and other technological advances help you provide the best care? A: NuCalm is a wonderful new technology that helps our nervous patients to be able to fully relax, without the risk of side effects from heavy sedation or medications. When our patients are calm, they have a better experience, and we can provide better dentistry. It helps our patients know that they can get the dentistry they need without fear. Two other technologies that help us are CEREC same-day crowns and 3-D imaging. Q: What should patients know before they come in for an appointment? A: Patients should know that they
DR. PAIGE LESTER
are coming to a dental office with team members who are going to do everything they can to provide them with the best care in the friendliest environment. From our front office team to our clinical team, we will work together to figure out what our patients need and how they can most conveniently get it. Q: What is the most frequent question you get from patients, and what is your answer?
A: One of our most frequent questions from new patients is, “Is this going to hurt?” Our current patients would most likely answer, “No!” Dr. Paige Lester and Dr. Joe Garner use modern techniques to numb teeth without many patients even realizing that they just received an anesthetic. We want every patient to be as comfortable as possible, so we go to extra lengths to be gentle.
Q: What is your advice for helping patients improve their dental health? A: Use an electric toothbrush twice a day; floss or use a water-flosser every night; and regularly visit your dentist to catch any potential problems while they are small and manageable. Also, limit sugary, acidic foods and beverages in your diet. Don't be embarrassed to go to the dentist if it's been awhile since you've had dental care. We are here to help, not to judge!
280Living.com
March 2017 • B23
MEDICAL SERVICES DIRECTORY • SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION
INVERNESS DERMATOLOGY & LASER 250 Inverness Center Drive Elizabeth S. Jacobson, MD
205-995-5575 Shellie (Maria) Marks, MD
InvernessDerm.com Kathleen Beckum, MD
SKIN@InvernessDerm.com Patricia O’Connor, MD
Mary Beth Templin, PA-C
Inverness Dermatology & Laser utilizes state-of- the-art, non-invasive technology to help our patients achieve their healthiest and most beautiful skin with minimal downtime and discomfort. Q: What sets you apart from other dermatology practices? A: We believe there are many excellent dermatology practices in the Birmingham area, so we can only speak to the strengths of our practice. We have an expert team of board-certified dermatologists, dermatology-certified physician assistants and specially trained staff. We are committed to providing the highest quality of comprehensive, patient-centered care to promote and sustain healthy and beautiful skin. We are experienced in both medical and cosmetic dermatology. We are excited to be the No. 1-ranked Certified CoolSculpting Center in all of Alabama, Mississippi and the Florida Panhandle for 2016. We are also proud to be the No. 1-ranked practice for all Galderma injectables including Dysport, Restylane, Restylane Lyft, Restylane Silk and Sculptra Aesthetic in the state of Alabama. Q: Can you tell us more about CoolSculpting? Does it really work? A: YES! The CoolSculpting procedure safely and PERMANENTLY eliminates stubborn fat without surgery and there is no downtime. This amazing treatment, developed at Harvard University, is FDA approved and uses controlled cooling to safely and permanently eliminate fat. We treat lovehandles, stubborn belly fat, bra
Monday-Friday, 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Meredith Gore, PA-C
intensively trained and certified in their individual roles and responsibilities in the office.
budges, fat under the chin and arms. Q: Are there ways to reverse the damage caused by our hot Alabama sun? A: Absolutely! We have many fantastic options for combating sun damage to fit any budget and lifestyle. No downtime to spare? We now offer the Forever Young BBL treatment. This amazing technology has been scientifically proven to help your skin look better and better as the years pass by! Our Forever Young BBL device exposes damaged skin to a form
of intense pulsed light that stimulates collagen and elastin fibers resulting in reduction of fine lines and wrinkles, brown spots, red spots and freckles.
Q: What should patients know before they come in for an appointment? A: Patients should know that we have a mission in mind when we approach the care of our patients! To fulfill this mission, we are committed to: ► Treat each of our patients in a pleasant and professional manner; ► Strive to make our office enjoyable to visit so our patients will feel at ease; ► Listen to the needs and concerns of our patients; ► Earn the trust and respect of our patients, fellow physicians and our community so they are comfortable referring friends, family and patients; ► Assist our patients in navigating the increasingly complex and complicated world of medical care to the best of our ability; ► Ensure a supportive and compassionate professional environment for our staff and providers; ► Strive for continuous improvement at all levels, utilizing staff and patient feedback to assist us in this endeavor.
Q: How does your staff contribute to a great patient experience? A: Most importantly, our staff are caring and responsible people with positive attitudes! Despite the current challenges both patients and their doctors face in health care, we continue to have a contagious optimism about our specialty and our practice. Our staff are
Q: What is your advice for helping patients improve their dermatological health and appearance? A: Get professional advice! Social media and television send many messages about skin health and beauty that are not evidence-based or optimized for an individual’s needs. Be Your Own Kind of Beautiful!
B24 • March 2017
MEDICAL SERVICES DIRECTORY • SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION
280 Living
NEURALIFE NEUROPATHY & PAIN CENTER 1849 Data Drive, Suite 1, Hoover Q: What do you treat? A: The NeuraLife treatment effectively treats neuropathy and chronic nerve conditions. It is effective regardless of the origin of the neuropathy. We successfully treat symptoms resulting from disease and illness as well as from accidents and injury. Common symptoms include: ► Numbness/burning pain; ► Leg cramping; ► Sharp, electrical-like pain; ► Pain when you walk; ► Difficulty sleeping due to leg and foot discomfort; ► Prickling or tingling feeling in the hands and feet Bottom line: If you have pain because of nerve issues, we can help. Q: Will I have more medications? A: No, we are nonpharmaceutical. Q: Is surgery involved? A: No. Q: Is therapy involved? A: No, we are a non-light therapy, non-physical therapy, non-chiropractic and non-laser practice. Q: Is it safe? A: NeuraLife treatment involves physical science and not chemistry. Therefore, it is considerably more natural and
205- 549-4899
NeuraLifeCenters.com
Monday-Thursday, 8 a.m. to 6 p.m.; Friday, 8 a.m. to noon exercise, with no reported negative side effects.
physiological to the human body. This technology is extremely safe, noninvasive, effective and virtually free of undesired side effects. Q: Is a medical doctor involved? A: Yes, NeuraLife offices are staffed by medically degreed personnel, and each office has a Medical Doctor (MD) as its medical director. Q: Could you elaborate on the history behind your practice? A: The use of electrical signals for various medical treatments has been mentioned since ancient times, with the
earliest man-made records (2750 B.C.) discussing the electrical properties and treatment potential of the Nile catfish, while other compilers describe medical treatment with electric fish by Hippocrates (420 B.C.). In the 1700s, European physicians documented the use of controlled electrical currents from electrostatic generators for numerous medical problems involving pain and circulatory dysfunction. During that period, Benjamin Franklin also documented pain relief by using electrical currents for a number of ailments including frozen shoulder.
Q: What kind of results have you seen? A: Proven studies show objectively measured outcomes in more than 87 percent of patients. The patients had resolved or significantly reduced neuropathy symptoms. One year after treatment, all reporting patients were still pain and symptom free. Positive results from treatment have included: ► Improved balance and stability; ► Improved and pain-free sleeping; ► Reduced swelling and increased blood flow to legs and feet; ► Improved walking and
Q: What are some longterm advantages to these treatments? A: NeuraLife offers safe and effective medically-directed nerve pain treatments to reduce the hyper-irritated state of the nerves. The long-term advantages of this treatment regimen include: ► Avoiding surgery; ► Avoiding the probability of chronic pain; ► Dramatic cost savings in both treatment and subsequent (lifelong) medication costs; ► Potentially returning a disabled patient to daily living; ► Patients able to perform activities of daily living with minimal pain. Q: How will I know I am getting better? A: Patients typically feel improvement as sensation and coordination return, plus a reduction in pain. It’s important to note that in the initial stages — as damaged nerves begins to heal — the return of sensation can sometimes be experienced as pain of varying degrees. This is a normal part of the restorative process and is usually limited in duration, disappearing as treatment progresses and sensation more fully recovers.
280Living.com
MEDICAL SERVICES DIRECTORY • SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION
March 2017 • B25
SKIN WELLNESS CENTER OF ALABAMA 398 Chesser Drive, Suite 6, Chelsea
678-7518
skinwellness.com
Monday-Thursday, 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.; Friday, 8 a.m. to noon
1920 Huntington Road, Homewood
871-7332
skinwellness.com
Monday-Thursday, 7:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.; Friday, 7:30 a.m. to 3 p.m.
DR. DEBORAH YOUHN
Q: You are new to the staff of Skin Wellness Center. How long have you worked in dermatology? A: I’ve been practicing dermatology for about 15 years. Q: Why did you go into this field? A: In medical school I wasn’t really thinking about dermatology until I had the good fortune to work with a very well known dermatologist in Chicago. After decades in the field, he was still so excited about being a dermatologist and being able to help people every day he came into the office. It gave me a real taste of what practicing would be like. I loved the fact that dermatology lets you do so much: pediatric care, skin cancer, laser treatments, pathology, surgery and the list goes on. I also enjoy the detective work that goes along with identifying rare skin diseases that you don't often see. Q: Do you have an area of specialization in your new job? A: In my practice, I primarily focus on the detection and treatment of skin cancer, but I also enjoy treating other general dermatologic conditions like acne, rosacea and eczema. Q: What do you consider to be some of your
professional successes? A: It always feels like a success when a patient leaves the appointment feeling better than when they came in, but it is particularly satisfying when I’m able to find and treat a condition, like skin cancer, early before it can do harm. Q: What do you enjoy about what you do? A: Mostly it’s about the patients. I love getting to know them and often I take care of whole families. It’s really one of the most satisfying aspects of medicine. It’s also great to be in a field where you can really help someone feel better. Many of the conditions we treat may not be life threatening, but if you help someone have clearer skin, it can certainly be life changing for them! Q: Do you have any suggestions for people seeking dermatology help? A: Don’t be afraid to make an appointment! I’m always struck by how many people I see that have some type of growth on their skin that they’ve watched get bigger or darker for years, but were just plain scared to come in. Even serious things, like melanoma, are treatable when detected and treated early. Get checked regularly, wear sunscreen and always remember we’re here to help!
B26 • March 2017
MEDICAL SERVICES DIRECTORY • SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION
280 Living
THERAPYSOUTH 2823 Greystone Commercial Blvd. 100 Chelsea Corners Way, Suite 100, Chelsea
408-1713
therapysouth.com
678-7272
Monday, Wednesday, 7 a.m. to 6 p.m.; Tuesday, Thursday, Friday, 7 a.m. to 5 p.m.
therapysouth.com
Monday, Wednesday, Friday, 7 a.m. to 5 p.m.; Tuesday, Thursday, 8 a.m. to 6 p.m.
Q: What do physical therapists do, and how can they help with an injury? A: Physical therapists are experts at treating movement disorders, including problems with your muscles, bones, joints, ligaments and/or tendons. After a thorough evaluation, your therapist will decide which exercises and handson techniques are needed to maximize your ability to function normally. Q: What are some common misconceptions about physical therapy? A: Many patients think they can only access their physical therapist by referral from a physician. Based on a state law passed in 2012, patients no longer need a referral to see their physical therapist. Many patients also think therapy only consists of exercises that are difficult and painful. Specific exercises that address your individual needs are important to your recovery, but good therapy also consists of hands-on techniques including manipulation, mobilization, myofascial release, massage, manual stretching, dry needling, instrument assisted soft tissue massage, therapeutic taping and other skilled techniques. Throughout the course of your
care, we will appropriately advance your exercises as your pain levels allow. We also use modalities such as heat, ice, electrical stimulation, spinal decompression/traction, ultrasound and iontophoresis. Q: How successful is physical therapy in pain management? A: Most of our patients come to us with pain. Unfortunately, many of the dysfunctions we treat start long before the pain shows up. You can even have pain in an area that is removed from the dysfunction (called referred pain). We are experts in helping you manage and overcome pain so you can return to your normal activities. In some cases, pain is a sign of injury or a normal part of the healing process.
Following your evaluation, your therapist will help explain your pain and show you ways to minimize or eliminate it. Q: Can physical therapy eliminate the need for surgery? A: In some instances, physical therapy can prevent surgery. For example, if a patient has a shoulder that subluxes or has too much movement in the joint, therapy can help by strengthening the rotator cuff and other surrounding muscles to tighten the shoulder joint, preventing the excessive movement. In many cases, therapy prior to surgery or “pre-hab” is also helpful. This allows time for your body to prepare for the surgery and usually results in better outcomes following surgery.
Q: What are some of the main reasons people need physical therapy? A: ► Back pain/bulging discs ► Arthritis ► Balance problems and/or falls ► Tendonitis ► Sports injuries ► Headaches ► Plantar fasciitis ► Muscle strains/ligament sprains ► Bursitis ► Car accidents ► Post-surgical rehab ► Work-related injuries ► Work-place injury prevention and testing ► Ergonomic assessment ► Education and knowledge about body structure and performance ► Injury prevention ► Dizziness
► Proper exercises and technique ► Pelvic pain ► Breast cancer rehab ► Parkinson’s disease Q: What sets TherapySouth apart from other physical therapy clinics? A: TherapySouth was founded on a set of core values that guide the way we do business: faith, family, integrity, service, compassion, fitness, perseverance and giving. Our therapists strive to provide a warm, friendly and professional environment to facilitate your recovery. Our 24 convenient clinic locations with more than 60 physical therapists provide you with hands-on care close to home and work.
280Living.com
MEDICAL SERVICES DIRECTORY • SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION
March 2017 • B27
WEIGH TO WELLNESS 4704 Cahaba River Road
994-2393
aplanforme.com
Monday-Thursday, 8 a.m. to 5:30 p.m.
Q: What is Weigh to Wellness? A: A medically supervised weight loss clinic offering a customized approach with various options including nutritional guidance, protein supplements/meal replacements, prescription medications and injections among many other tools. Our program is uniquely individualized based on your health characteristics, lifestyle and weight loss goals. Whether a patient is looking to lose 10 pounds or 100 pounds, we have a plan for you!
prescription medication (if applicable) or injections that may enhance weight loss. Everything is a la carte! There are NO CONTRACTS and NO SIGN UP FEES.
Q: Who is on the Weigh to Wellness staff? A: Owner Leslie Ellison has acquired a wealth of knowledge with over 21 years of experience in the industry. Dr. Timothy H. Real is the medical director and is board certified by the American Board of Obesity Medicine. We also have fulltime Registered Dietitians and Nutritionists. Our staff is able to recognize many psychological and genetic factors that cause obesity and design processes specific to each of our patients for the best results.
Q: Do I have to follow a specific meal plan or keep a food diary? A: There are many options offered, but the patient picks and chooses the aspects of the program that best fits their lifestyle. Benefits to keeping a food diary are detecting food intolerance, controlling portion sizes, keeping you mindful of nutrition and often identifying triggers to unhealthy eating. Patients who keep a food journal typically lose twice the amount of weight of those that don’t.
Q: What results do patients typically have? A: Patients typically lose an average of 2-5 pounds weekly. It is inspiring to see how excited our patients get when they see great
Q: Does the program have one-on-one counseling that will help develop healthier habits? A: Yes. Patients are typically seen on a weekly or biweekly basis for one-on-one counseling and behavior modification. Accountability and structure is key to every patient’s success.
DR. TIMOTHY H. REAL AND LESLIE ELLISON results. It keeps them motivated and focused! Since opening in June of 2014 we have celebrated over 15,000 pounds lost! Q: How much does the program cost? A: A medical evaluation which includes an EKG, lab tests, body
composition analysis and a physical with Dr. Real is required to start any program — the fee for the medical evaluation is $130. Programs can range from $13-$100 weekly. Costs vary depending on if the patient chooses to use any meal replacements, protein snacks,
Q: Do I have to buy special meals or supplements? A: No, but Weigh to Wellness does offer convenient meal replacements and protein snacks. Most patients love these healthy options because they
are great for grab and go! Q: Does the program provide ways to deal with such issues as social or holiday eating, changes to work schedules, lack of motivation, and injury or illness? A: Yes. There is no perfect time to diet. Our experienced staff is used to working around any of these issues. We encourage each of our patients to think of it as a lifestyle change, not necessarily a diet! Q: Will Dr. Real work with my health care provider if needed (for example, if I lose weight and my blood pressure medications need to be adjusted)? A: Absolutely. We are happy to follow up with your primary care doctor or specialist at any time with your consent. Q: Does the program include a plan to help me keep the weight off once I’ve lost weight? A: “I can’t think of one thing I love that I don’t have to maintain — the oil in my car, the grass on my lawn, the paint on my home,” Ellison said. Yes, we offer a FREE lifetime maintenance program and it is the most important part of the program. Patients can continue to come weekly, biweekly or monthly for maintenance and there is no charge!
B28 • March 2017
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MEDICAL SERVICES DIRECTORY • SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION
280 MEDICAL SUPPLY 11600 County Road 280, Chelsea 678-8755
280medicalsupply.com
Monday-Friday, 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
Q: What makes your medical supply business stand out from others? A: Because I am the owner and the operator, I can deal with each individual person to provide the individual care they deserve. I try to stock medical supply items and equipment that people tend to need on a daily basis or in an emergency that they GEORGIA can’t find it anywhere else. For instance, I don’t know of anywhere around here where a person can walk in and buy catheters or ostomy supplies, with a prescription of course. I have also been known to meet people at my store after closing hours and on the weekends for emergency supplies that they needed. You don’t see that in many places, especially in this industry. Q: What has been your biggest disappointment? A: Not being able to help everyone. The main reason I got into this business was to be able to help people, and because of the ever-changing regulations and competitive bidding, I can’t always do that. Q: With the shrinking reimbursement rates from payers and competitive bidding, how have you survived? A: It hasn’t been easy! I have had to really tighten my belt and streamline operations. I moved my store to this location on Old Highway 280 almost
BIRMINGHAM INTERNAL MEDICINE 7191 Cahaba Valley Road, Suite 300 995-9909 LAY four years ago. It has been fun seeing this old lumber company transform into a medical supply store. There are still a lot of items that I can bill to Medicare. I focus on those items, such as catheters, bracing and diabetic infusion supplies, and I do more cash sales of bathroom safety items, ramps and mobility equipment. I have a store and warehouse full of items used on a daily basis. We also work with all the other payers. Q: What makes you keep going? A: Hands down, my customers. When someone comes by just to say, “Thank you for all your help getting what we needed,” or for the help with their mom or dad — it’s these times I know I am just where God intended me to be, and I wouldn’t be anywhere else. I say this as I’m leaving a friend on a Saturday afternoon to meet someone at my store for a transfer belt and patient alarm so they can bring a dementia patient home.
bimapc.com
Monday-Friday, 7:30 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Q: What are your staff’s qualifications, and how do they contribute to overall patient experience? A: We have board-certified physicians and nurse practitioners, with a fully trained staff of certified medical assistants. From the moment a patient comes to our practice, it has been our overriding commitment to provide a seamless patient experience. We have a streamlined tablet check-in process, which allows multiple patients to directly update their medical history and quickly collect co-pays without the long lines familiar at other practices. We also have a strong focus on electronic communication with our patients, so that after their visit we can reinforce our treatment plan and counsel about concerns that may arise between visits. We are also proud to offer virtual office visits through our patient portal, which allows us to treat simple medical ailments electronically for little more than a standard patient co-pay. Q: How do you distinguish Birmingham Internal Medicine from other similar practices in the area?
A: As a privately owned physician practice, we have the unique opportunity of tailoring our patient experience based on our interests of providing the best primary care possible. Whereas other hospitals or corporate-owned practices may have some physician input into the running of their practice, ours is solely structured on the care and focus that our physician owners have on the doctorpatient relationship. Q: What advice do you have for people looking to improve their overall health and wellness? A: Before starting any wellness program, we would always advise a patient to have a full screening physical to identify any underlying health issues that may put that individual at risk prior to modifying their diet or physical activity levels. In partnership with St. Vincent’s 119 Health and Wellness Center, we have a full suite of health-focused programs, and this comprehensive partnership forms the basis of a practical set of recommendations that a patient can use to improve their overall health and fitness.
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MEDICAL SERVICES DIRECTORY • SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION
CHIROPRACTIC ACUPUNCTURE 2800 Greystone Commercial Blvd., Suite 2B
cahc.biz
408-5600
Monday, Wednesday, Friday, 7:30 a.m. to 1 p.m., 2:30-5 p.m.; Thursday, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Q: How is your clinic different from other chiropractic clinics/ offices? A: Our clinic doesn’t focus on just musculoskeletal issues, but rather the patient as a whole. Many patients come in with underlying conditions such as insomnia, headaches, asthma, tendonitis, diabetes, fibromyalgia, infertility and other conditions. We work with the patient on nutrition, diet and change of lifestyle, then focus on DR. CHERIE JOHNSON team treatment with their physicians. We can refer a patient to the correct physician cover chiropractic care but do not cover for their health concerns that may acupuncture. not be treated by chiropractic or Everyone’s policy is different, so we acupuncture care. Our clinic is involved ask for them to call on chiropractic in many detox programs, blood sugar coverage. Some patients may have to nutrition programs and yeast cleanse first meet a deductible before insurance programs. We provide hair analysis for pays, and some do not. difficult cases or diagnosis. We take pride in taking time and Q: What would I do acupuncture talking with the patient on each visit for? with any health concerns or issues that A: Many patients receive acupuncture may arise. treatment for infertility, low back pain, headaches, neck pain, tendonitis, Q: Does insurance cover bursitis, neuralgia, insomnia, stress, chiropractic or acupuncture? Or do anxiety/depression, sinus and allergies, you take insurance for chiropractic fibromyalgia, knee pain, shoulder pain, or acupuncture? TMJ, muscle spasms, irregular periods A: We primarily take Blue Cross Blue and high blood pressure. Shield insurance but will file other Visit our website for a list of more insurances. Most BCBS policies do conditions.
March 2017 • B29
MICHELSON LASER VISION, INC. 1201 11th Ave. S., Suite 501 969-8100
michelsonlaservision.com
Monday-Thursday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.; Friday, 8 a.m. to noon
Q: What is your range of services? A: We specialize in laser vision correction including LASIK and Photorefractive Keratectomy (PRK). We also specialize in Refractive Lens Surgery; cataract surgery with intraocular implantation; premium refractive cataract surgery to treat astigmatism and presbyopia; and corneal inlays to eliminate reading glasses. We offer comprehensive surgical solutions to correct vision problems for young, middle age and older adults. Refractive surgery no longer includes just LASIK, but also Refractive Lens Surgery where a premium intraocular lens is implanted into the eye providing extended-depth of focus to eliminate the need for reading glasses. Premium intraocular lenses can also simultaneously correct astigmatism. New corneal inlays are now available to eliminate the need for reading glasses. Q: How does your staff contribute to the overall patient experience? A: Our staff is highly trained to provide a concierge experience for all of our patients. Q: What is your approach to incorporating new technology into your practice? A: We utilize the most advanced diagnostic instrumentation to determine the best procedure available to meet the needs of each patient. All LASIK procedures are performed on the newest generation of lasers. Over the past 25 years, I have utilized over 6 generations of laser technology to
ensure the highest quality outcomes. For cataract surgery, we offer the most advanced intraocular lens options including Extended-Depth-Of-Focus premium lens implants during lens replacement and cataract surgery. Our newest technology is the new Raindrop corneal inlay for treatment of Presbyopia to eliminate reading glasses. Q: What sets you apart from other Birmingham eye care practices? A: In 2016, I was named one of the Top 300 innovators in Refractive Cataract Surgery by Ocular Surgery News, an honor that distinguishes me for my accomplishments and contributions to the fields of cataract and laser vision correction surgery. However what truly distinguishes me from my peers is the level of expertise, innovation, and comprehensive care I give my patients and their level of satisfaction when they leave my office.
B30 • March 2017
GROWING UP PEDIATRICS 200 Riverhill Business Park, Suite 250 growinguppediatrics.net 995-0899 Monday, 8 a.m. to 7:30 p.m.; Tuesday-Saturday, 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Q: How often should my baby be eating? A: If it’s possible for you to breast-feed, breast milk is the best food for babies. Expect your newborn to feed about every two hours. Feeding can last anywhere from 10 to 15 minutes on each side. The more the infant nurses from the breast, the quicker your milk will “come in” and the more milk you will be able to produce. Supplementing with formula can sometimes hinder successful breastfeeding. Q: How do I know when to start feeding my baby solid food? A: The practice of introducing solid foods and liquids other than breast milk or formula during the first year of life has varied over time and across cultures. The American Academy of Pediatrics currently recommends that solid foods be introduced around 6 months of age. Whenever you start your child on solids, begin with foods such as mashed bananas or rice cereal. Q: My child/baby has a fever — Now what do I do? A: More than almost any other condition, fever causes parents to worry. Because many types of infection do not
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MEDICAL SERVICES DIRECTORY • SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION
DR. DONNA KENTROS
tolerate elevated temperatures, fever is nature’s way of fending off disease. For this reason, it is not necessary to get your child’s fever back to normal when they are sick. The important factor with fever is identifying the underlying cause for the fever and addressing this problem properly. If you have questions about what to do when your child has a fever, you should call your pediatrician and follow his or her advice.
HOME CARE ASSISTANCE OF BIRMINGHAM 5291 Valleydale Road 438-6925
homecareassistancebirminghamal.com Open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week
Q: What is home care? A: Home care is rooted in the principle that older adults should be free to age at home with the level of care they need to be safe and comfortable. In its simplest terms, home care means assistance with activities of daily living and household tasks. Ideally, home care also provides meaningful companionship for older adults and peace of mind for their families. Q: What are my options? A: Home care services can be provided by a non-medical home care agency, a Medicare-certified home health agency, a placement/referral agency, a privately hired caregiver or a family member. These options and what differentiates them may be the most confusing aspect of navigating the waters of home care. For example, though a family caregiver can sometimes be the most costeffective decision when caring for an elderly relative, there are a number of downsides including high rates of depression symptoms among family caregivers (40 to 70 percent) and lack of necessary training to ensure the safety and comfort of the loved one. Q: How does home care compare to assisted living facilities? A: Until a few years ago, assisted living facilities (ALFs) were seen as the primary care solution for
aging adults. These facilities were created as an alternative to nursing homes and are typically made up of individual condominiums within a larger community that provides meals, housekeeping, occasional nursing visits and other services. Home care providers, called caregivers, provide the same basic services as facilities, such as light housekeeping, meal preparation and social activities, but also provide a much more customized plan of care tailored to the status, conditions, preferences, hobbies and lifestyle of the individual. Q: Is home care covered by medicare or insurance? A: Unfortunately, Medicare does not cover non-medical home care needs. It will only cover home health care from a certified home health agency; to be approved, an individual must be homebound and have a demonstrable medical need. Traditional health insurance does not cover home care but long-term care insurance does.
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MEDICAL SERVICES DIRECTORY • SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION
ENCORE REHABILITATION 5291 Valleydale Road, Suite 113 408-4123
encorerehab.com
Monday-Friday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Q: Encore Rehabilitation is now offering dry needling at your facilities. How has that helped treat your patients? A: Dry needling provides another treatment modality that allows us to more specifically target tendons and muscles and expedite a patient’s recovery. It has been extremely effective in alleviating chronic neck pain, and we have had very good results with chronic tendinitis of the elbow and plantar fasciitis. Q: Could you share with us a dry needling success story? A: A patient recently came to us who had undergone neck surgery five years ago and was suffering from increasing neck and shoulder pain, in addition to recurrent cervical headaches. The patient had received physical therapy on numerous occasions using the standard treatment techniques (ultrasound, soft tissue mobilization, exercises), with very limited success, and she was referred to us specifically for dry needling. After her first treatment, her pain decreased from a 9/10 to a 4/10, and she did not experience any more cervical headaches after her second treatment. After a month, her pain decreased to a maximum level of 1/10, with only “slight stiffness” in her neck on occasion. The patient’s comment early on in her treatment that was most
MARC R. BERNIER
satisfying to us was, “It’s been so long, I completely forgot what it was like to have almost no pain at all!” Q: Encore modifies treatments based on the needs of each patient. How important is that to your patient’s recovery? A: It is by far the most important component in expediting a patient’s recovery to achieve their goals. Every patient we see is different from the next in regards to their physical weaknesses, pain patterns and goals of therapy — for instance, are they an athlete trying to get back on the field or grandmother who wants to be able to hold her grandchild? We take great pride in the thoroughness of our evaluation process to determine the cause of a patient’s problems, and even greater pride in the amount of attention we pay to them on each visit. This allows us to make sure patient’s are doing exercises correctly, because if they are not, they may be causing more harm than good.
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280 Living neighborly news & entertainment
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Faith C10 Opinion C11 Real Estate C12 Calendar C13
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s days turn warmer, it’s time to start thinking about summertime at last, and no summer is complete without a camp experience. Peruse our guide to learn more about which programs best fit your child’s personality, interest, age and availability. No matter which you choose, it’s time to jump in for fun and adventure this summer.
JOSEPH BRUNO MONTESSORI ACADEMY
Summer camps that challenge and educate Joseph Bruno Montessori Academy offers a vast array of summer programs for three-year-olds through eighth-graders that will enhance your child’s education in the arts, science, math, nature and sports. Camp activities include art activities with a fun flair where students are led through an art class and leave with a work of art each day. Camps also include building and designing activities where students will make structures using a variety of items like Legos and recyclable materials. Additional offerings will include space exploration, cooking, sports and wild safari days. Students will learn valuable collaboration, communication and problem-solving skills in all of our summer camps. Bruno Montessori will also be of-
fering academic camps to keep your brain engaged over the summer. Basic concepts will be reviewed and reinforced in a fun and supportive environment. Be a step ahead when school starts back in the fall. Bruno Montessori’s summer programs are designed to allow children to explore their interests from an early age through creative, fun and challenging experiences. Summer camps are a great introduction to our school and learning environment. Summer camps are led by Bruno Montessori teachers and we welcome the opportunity to get to know you and your family. All camps take place on our beautiful wooded campus, where exploration and curiosity are encouraged and nurtured. Please visit our website at jbma. education for a full list of summer camps and dates.
C2 • March 2017
280 Living
Your Health Today By Dr. Irma Leon Palmer
The role of a chiropractor is commonly confused in our society. A large percentage of individuals would probably say a chiropractor is helpful when you have neck or back pain. You go in ‘in pain’ they adjust the spinal segment back into place and you are good to go! We see this misconception come through the doors of Chiropractic Today often. Individuals who want a quick fix and don’t understand the long-term importance of chiropractic wellness care. It’s important to understand the presence of pain is not the only indicator you are out of alignment. Other indicators informing you your nervous system is not working optimally may be present. For example, a misalignment of either Thoracic 12/Lumbar 1 spinal segmental area and or Lumbar 5/Sacral 1 oftenly produces interruption of the proper elimination of the bowels. Internal symptomatology, such as constipation and IBS issues commonly present themselves well before external lower back pain does. These symptoms are indications of decreased nervous system impulses from the brain to the digestive and elimination system causing an adaptation of function away from the normal. For better or for worse, the body is constantly adapting. Poor posture, fender benders, desk jobs, lack of exercise, lack of stretching, dehydration and so much more can slowly degenerate the health of your spine. External signs such as the incorrect rubbing and wearing down of joints that can lead to knee and hip replacements,
Adapt Up Towards Health
ligament tears, and more will develop as an adaptive response to internal structural compromise. Do you suffer from headaches? Commonly, misalignments of the neck, specifically at Cervical 1/Cervical 2 can impede the function of the sinuses, nasal lymphatic drainage, etc. Do you get allergies, sinus infections, or drainage in the throat constantly throughout the year? That is not ‘human body’ normal. It’s an adaptive state of function away from health. It’s your body’s way of getting your attention and communicating “Houston, we have a problem” , there are issues present. Tingling in the hands, erectile dysfunction, migraines, sluggish digestion….all of these point to the nervous system being an adaptive state away from the correct God given natural health and function we were all born with. AND, most definitely, it is not something you have to live with. Too many people only start listening to their body when pain begins to limit their ability to work or do what they love. How many of us have gotten so used to aches and pains that we forget that they are not normal? Chiropractic wellness care is for more than spinal and muscular pain. It is for total body and life alignment. Your health is like a five-spoked wheel, and in order to have a smooth journey through life, all spokes need attention and proper function. Your health matters! “Health” is a word that can easily be worn out and ignored despite its importance. Truthfully, your health is the activity level of your family, the years you are able to make memories and
meet grandchildren and great grandchildren. Health does not happen by chance. Health is pursued just like quality relationships and making a difference in this lifetime. At Chiropractic Today, our intention is to inspire every practice member to maximize their health potential. Through this medium, everyone stands a better chance of positively impacting our community. We encourage everyone to look inside yourself and realize health is a “whole life” concept. To have an outstanding life with outstanding health, you must pursue the BIG 5 lifestyle. We define this five-spoked wheel as Faith first, Neurological spinal care, Nutrient-loaded foods, Physical exercise that sustains your heart rate for 30 minutes daily, and Guarding and Directing your mind space toward positive thinking! Aligning yourself to live the BIG 5 lifestyle is easy yet difficult because distractions, derailments and habits are the persistent enemy. Ultimately, being genuinely healthy comes down to one’s genuine desire to live in a manner that enhances their health and the lives of those around them. The body’s voice uses pain and symptoms to say that it is out of alignment. Your life circumstances can do the same. Our practice has been focused on guiding individuals towards health and wellness for over two decades. How has your health changed over these years? If you need or want help, let us know. We are a short drive, a click or a call away. Visit us in Inverness Corners or call 205-991-3511.
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HUNTINGTON LEARNING CENTER
Huntington offers summer tutoring sessions Huntington Learning Center is offering summer tutoring sessions so your student can catch up or get ahead for the coming year. “We give personalized attention and tailor make the program for the student,” said Marty Lively, owner of Huntington Learning Center in Vestavia. “We focus on more than homework help. We figure out where their struggle is and work from there at the student’s pace, not ours.” Huntington is the tutoring and test prep leader. Its certified tutors provide individualized instruction in reading, phonics, writing, study skills, elementary and middle school math, algebra through calculus, chemistry and other sciences. It preps for the ACT and SAT, as well as state and standardized exams. Huntington programs develop the skills, confidence, and motivation to help students succeed and meet the needs of state standards. For most students, study skills are not inherent. These aptitudes take time to learn and consistent practice to be most effective. Whether your child is a successful student or struggling with one or more subjects, there are certain essential skills that will build a foundation for his or her success in school and life. Huntington Learning Center focuses on something called executive functions. Executive functions are neurologically based skills that require self-regulation or mental processing. Put simply, they help children focus, prioritize tasks, set goals and work toward them, and stay attentive when studying. These functions include organization, time management, planning and retention. Organization will help the student to keep workspaces tidy and put supplies in places where they can be found easily combined with the ability to stay on top of homework and supplies needed in class and at home. Time management will teach students to organize one’s time with the aid of a planner/calendar in order to maximize work time and deter procrastination. Planning teaches
the ability to manage short-term and long-term to-dos. Retention will teach the ability to retain information and retrieve it later when completing a task. Students will also learn note-taking skills at the summer sessions. “Students need to develop a reliable method of taking notes and make sure their notes record key points covered both in textbook and in the class,” said Lively. The learning center focuses on test-taking skills, as well. “A solid study plan is the core of a good test-taking strategy,” said Lively. “Children who embrace reliable
learning methods and stick to a study schedule are best equipped to perform well on exams, but most need guidance to fine tune their test-taking skills.” Huntington also offers tutoring geared toward standardized testing and college entrance exams. “We also have ACT prep,” said Lively. “This is one on one instruction dynamic because the focus is usually scholarship dollars or entrance into a college or university.” Huntington Learning Center is located at 790 Montgomery Highway, Suite 112, Vestavia Hills, AL. We are in the Vestavia Hills City Center, next to Publix.
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MCWANE SCIENCE CENTER
Come to camp at McWane Science Center
What will your child do over summer vacation? McWane Science Center Summer Camps make learning an unforgettable adventure you just can’t experience anywhere else. In one week of camp, your budding scientist can discover a dinosaur, travel into outer space, design and build a skyscraper, or explore the ocean floor. Various themes and activities allow children to experience something new each day. Blast off in Cosmo Camp, investigate with CSI McWane, or get creative in Smarty Arty Pants Camp. Robotics, cool chemistry,
dive into marine biology or dig paleontology. The flexible programs allow you to choose programs you want for your child for a full week of fun and learning! Summer Camps will be offered for seven weeks beginning June 5 and ending July 28. Each session is a week in length. We will offer morning camps for Pre K and K children from 9 a.m. until 1 p.m. Camps for grades 1 through 7 are from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. every day. Before and aftercare will also be available each day. Don’t miss out on a great program of science and
wonder here at McWane Science Center this summer! We will show your kids how fun science can be for them. Summer Camps: ► June 5 – July 28 ► Each session lasts one week (M-F) ► Grades Pre K and K – 9 a.m. until 1 p.m. ► Grades 1 through 7 – 9 a.m. until 4 p.m. ► Before and aftercare available ► Includes lunch and snack each day
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YMCA OF GREATER BIRMINGHAM
YMCA summer day camp focuses on youth development Youth development is the social, emotional, cognitive, and physical processes that all youth uniquely experience from birth to career. A successful developmental process fulfills children and teens’ innate need to be loved, spiritually grounded, educated, competent and healthy. Trading stories and sharing a favorite book or song with a new friend. Being greeted with smiles and high-fives from staff and teammates after scoring the winning point. Always fitting in, just for being you. This is what Summer Day Camp at the YMCA of Greater Birmingham is all about — ensuring kids get more out of their summer break: more friendships, more achievement, and more belonging. The Y is a place where kids feel safe, welcomed and can express their individuality in an environment that provides positive relationships, encourages parent engagement, and helps children realize their passions and talents. It’s also loads of fun! To learn more or to register, go online to ymcabham.org/best-summer. Other YMCA summer opportunities: ► YMCA Camp Cosby The YMCA of Greater Birmingham’s sleepaway camp, Camp Cosby, offers a one-week, co-ed, safe and structured experience for children ages 6 to 16 on the shores of Logan Martin Lake. YMCA Camp Cosby gives children a chance to play hard, make new friends, and have the adventure of a lifetime in a safe, fun and structured environment. Your camper will develop new skills, gain confidence, make friends and have an amazing experience. campcosby.org
► YMCA Hargis Retreat Unlike other day camp programs, Summer Day Camp at Hargis is really camp! Located on 200+ wooded acres complete with swimming pool, hiking trails, fields for games, rock face for climbing, and our own private lake, it is the perfect backdrop for the traditional camp activities that we offer. Activities include: • Hiking • Fishing • Canoeing • Lake swimming • Archery • Rock climbing ymcabham.org/hargisretreat ► Summer Adventures In Learning (S.A.I.L.) The Summer Adventures In Learning program works with struggling students in grades 3-5 who need extra help. Summer Adventures In Learning is designed to help prevent learning loss, offer chances to explore new interests and skills and close the achievement gap for children from lower income communities. ymcabham.org/sail ► THINGAMAJIG® Invention Convention July 2017 THINGAMAJIG® is a daylong event that combines STEM (science, technology, engineering, and math), active fitness and play, creative eco-art and team challenges into one child-focused festival. Learn more online at ymcabham.org/ thingamajig.
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SHELBY COUNTY SCHOOLS
Keep coming back for more fun Find fun ways to get your child out of the house and having fun with Shelby County Schools summer day and specialty enrichment camps. Students zoned for Shelby County Schools who meet the age requirements and registration deadline can participate in day camps that last throughout the summer. Summer camp is open to incoming kindergarten through outgoing fifth-grade students. Incoming kindergarten students must be 5 by the registration deadline to qualify. Day camp activities include themed games, arts and crafts, educational on-site field trips such as the 4-H Center and Dynamic Education Adventures and offsite field trips such as bowling, skating, swimming, movies and indoor play centers. Parents can choose for their children to participate full time throughout the summer or only certain days a week. Camps are at Forest Oaks Elementary, Calera Elementary, Oak Mountain Intermediate and Helena Intermediate. “Many of our campers come back year after year, so that is encouraging to know that they are choosing to spend their summer with us,” said Shelby County Schools public relations coordinator Cindy Warner. The school system also offers weeklong specialty camps throughout the summer that focus on activities such as art, cheerleading, crafts, culinary, drama, foreign languages, gymnastics and
a variety of STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math) related courses. The age ranges, dates and registration fees for these camps vary. “Even our cooking/culinary camps are teaching skills like reading and math as students learn how to read recipes and use measurements to make something yummy,” Warner said. Day camps are May 30-July 28 (except July 4) from 7 a.m.-6 p.m. Registration for full-time students is $140 per week or $110 per week for students on free and reduced lunches, and partial week students can attend for $35 per day. There is a nonrefundable $35 registration fee. Registration is open now through May 12 and can be done online at ezchildtrack.com/scscomed/parent or call 682-5958. For more information, go to shelbyed.k12.al.us/communityed.
THE ALTAMONT SCHOOL
Keep learning in a variety of classes Summer is the perfect time to try something new, dive deeper into a current interest, fine tune math and English skills or fulfill required courses in a more relaxed environment. Altamont offers a wide array of quality classes, taught by our outstanding faculty, that are both educational and fun. Altamont’s six-week program is open to rising 1st through 12th graders. It includes three separate sections of two-week classes: June 5-16, June 19-30 and July 5-14. Early and after hour care is available. Registration opens February 1 at altamont.recdesk.com. Credit courses: High school credit courses for rising 9th-12th graders include Altamont-required half-credit courses in Speech, Laboratory Technology and Health. Full-credit courses are offered in Honors Geometry and ninth grade Honors Ancient and Medieval Civilizations. Elective classes for rising 3rd-8th grade students include photography, theater, cooking, astronomy and gaming, as well as enrichment classes in math and English. One of our exciting
new offerings this summer is a creative writing/gaming course with Lou Anders, award-winning author of the Thrones & Bones books and game. Sports and music camps: Our popular basketball and soccer day camps are open to players of all skill levels in rising 1st-12th grades. Music offerings include rock band camp, band camp and string camp. Whether it’s enrichment, enlightenment or entertainment, Altamont has what your child needs most this summer — something constructive to do. Enroll today. Registration and course information at altamont.recdesk.com. Contact Dr. Josh Barnard, Summer Program Director, at jbarnard@altamontschool.org.
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280 Living
PIECES OF
CHELSEA
Salvaged Weldon Store materials to be repurposed throughout city By ERICA TECHO The Weldon Store stood in the same spot, at the corner of County Roads 39 and 47 for more than 100 years, before it was torn down in February. Chelsea’s city council first approved plans to dismantle and preserve parts of the Weldon Store during its Jan. 17 meeting. The front of the building was taken off piece by piece before an excavator was brought in on Feb. 9. Chelsea Mayor Tony Picklesimer said the decision to take time to dismantle, rather than topple, the Weldon Store was made to preserve history and use pieces of the store in future projects. “We took 10 days doing what could have been done in three or four hours if we didn’t care about the history, but we did care about the history,” Picklesimer said. The deconstruction process started with removing the front panels of the building, as well as the doors and windows, which will be used at the future Weldon Pavilion in the Chelsea Sports Complex. While there were plans to save the façade of the building and other wood that was salvageable, the room above the store was found to have more materials that can be used in the pavilion. “The entire thing was used with a tongue and
groove hard pine, but it had never been painted. It was absolutely beautiful,” Picklesimer said. The pine will likely be used to line the awning and hallway at Weldon Pavilion. Wood was not only removed for the pavilion, however. As it was taken down, wood from the store was separated into three piles — one for the Weldon Pavilion, one for future projects and one for public consumption. “It was gratifying to be able to harvest and salvage. It was very somber, especially Thursday night,” Picklesimer said. “It was very somber, like the end of an era. But there was some gratification that so much of it could be used.” On Friday, Feb. 10 a crew gathered whatever salvageable materials they could from the collapsed building, including the main posts and beams from inside, which could not be removed while the store was standing. After identifying usable wood that would not be used by the city, community members were able to take a few pieces home. “What I thought would be a two- or threehour process, it lasted all day,” Picklesimer said. “But that was OK because there were literally hundreds of people who came in.” Residents already had constructed pieces to memorialize the Weldon Store just days after it was demolished. One resident, Winston Wilson,
Above: Mayor Tony Picklesimer with a handmade sign that was constructed with wood from the former Weldon Store. Left: A sign that was salvaged from the Weldon Store. Photos by Erica Techo.
donated a piece — a metal cutout of the Weldon Store mounted on reclaimed wood — for display at city hall. Other pieces of the Weldon Store will be placed around city hall in the future, Picklesimer said. The flag from the front of the building was taken down and cared for by the Chelsea Fire Department, who dried and folded it. A flag was first put up on the building after Sept. 11, 2001, and has been replaced as the sun and
elements have aged flags. The flag will be displayed in the council chamber inside of a case constructed of wood from the Weldon Store. A bench found in the store will be cleaned up and put on display in the council chambers as well. “It was the hub of Chelsea for a long, long time — a city center,” Picklesimer said. “And I realize that, and I tried to honor that and continue to try and honor that.”
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C10 • March 2017
280 Living
Faith Life Actually By Kari Kampakis
Tips for tryouts: Confidence, courage and community It’s that time of year again: when girls and guys across the country are gearing up for tryout season and getting physically and mentally prepared. And while I can’t help anyone with physical preparations, I can offer a few thoughts for the mental part. Here are three words to keep in mind: ► Confidence ► Courage ► Community Confidence is feeling good about yourself and your abilities. It’s that sense that you are capable of rising to meet a challenge. To build confidence, you must try. You must put yourself out there and accept the risk of failure. While it’s certainly safer to not try ― and simply sit on the sidelines as other people take risks ― that won’t build confidence. If anything, it’ll stir up jealousy as other people succeed with their attempts. Confidence grows when you face your fears and come out stronger on the other side. It comes from setting goals, working hard to reach your goals, pushing through self-doubt and surprising yourself by learning new skills beyond your comfort zone.
Confidence plays a huge role in your performance during tryouts. When you believe in yourself it shows. It also gives you a special dynamic that helps you to stand out in a crowd. So rather than imagine the worst, picture yourself at your best. Remember how hard you’ve worked, and think about the times when you accomplished a new milestone that made you stop and think, “Wow, I can’t believe I just did that! I’ve come a long way since I started.” Courage is facing your fears even when you’re scared. It’s stepping out to take a chance despite not knowing what the outcome will be. My parents always encouraged me and my siblings to be courageous with tryouts. They believed the experience itself could teach us valuable life skills that we’d need. Before any big event, my father would tell me, “Just do your very best, and leave the results to God.” For me, that took the pressure off. It kept me focused on what I could control instead of the final outcome. I agree that tryouts are never a waste. Whether you make the cut or not, you still gain important skills ― like learning to
perform under pressure ― that can be beneficial later when you interview for jobs, give a speech or do something else that requires your best presentation possible even if you’re nervous or scared. Tryouts are really a chance to practice being brave. Every small act of courage leads to bigger acts of courage, and that may really pay off down the road. Community is looking beyond yourself to connect with other people. It’s understanding how much stronger you are together than you could ever be alone. Competition naturally breeds comparisons. And when you try out for a team, it’s natural to rank yourself against others and feel better or worse as a result. Either way, however, comparison isn’t helpful, and what it ultimately does is create division and isolation instead of unity and support. It’s better ― and more fun ― to approach tryouts with a sense of solidarity and understand how the goal for everyone is to perform at their personal best. The best part of chasing a dream or making a team are the friendships you develop along the way and by adopting a team mindset early, you cultivate a culture
where people may actually encourage and motivate each other. In short, trying out for a team can be exciting and nerve-wracking. It can stretch you in new directions and push you to the brink. Whatever happens, God has a plan for you, and the activities and passions you enjoy today are just a small part of that plan and a prelude to much bigger events that will manifest with time. So be confident, show courage and embrace community. Have faith in yourself and the dreams in your heart, knowing that as long as you do your personal best, you can leave the results to God. Kari Kubiszyn Kampakis is a Birmingham area mom of four girls, columnist and blogger for The Huffington Post. She has written two books for teen and tween girls, “LIKED: Whose Approval Are You Living For?” and “10 Ultimate Truths Girls Should Know,” that are available online and everywhere books are sold. You can join Kari’s Facebook community at “Kari Kampakis, Writer,” visit her blog at karikampakis.com or contact her at kari@ karikampakis.com.
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March 2017 • C11
Opinion My South By Rick Watson Back roads lead to wayside memories My work took me to West AlaOne day when I went with bama in mid-January. The schedhim to “run the baskets,” we disule was loose, and the day was the covered he’d trapped something warmest yet of 2017, so naturally unexpected. We’d tethered the I chose to take the back roads baskets to the bank with a length of wire and when he started pullwhere there’s always something interesting to see. ing in to check the contents, he The route I chose ran by the realized there was something in old house where I was born. At it much heavier than minnows. one point, I came to a piece of When we got it to the top of the property that once belonged to water, we saw something writhmy Aunt Willodean. These days, ing and thrashing inside. Watson Once on the bank, we discovall that’s there is a grove of privets as thick as thatch. I’m not sure who owns that ered it was thick with snakes. There were six cottonmouths in there, and they were not happy. property now. We couldn’t figure out how to free them withMy aunt bought the house and property from the Warren family, who lived there when I was out getting bit, so the next few minutes did not in grade school. The land was on the edge of a go well for these venomous pit vipers. That was small creek, and it often turned into a swamp the summer I refined my fishing techniques. I when it rained. didn’t have the money for fancy rods and reels A clip of memory played through my mind or store-bought rigging, but I did OK. like an old movie, and it helped melt away the I must have looked like Opie from “The Andy miles of my trip. Griffith Show,” walking to the creek bank, a Cane pole fishing was a big part of my young bamboo pole with the line wrapped around it like life. I spent hours catching crickets, digging red stripes on a candy cane. About 18 inches from worms and looking for the perfect fishing spot: the hook was a small section of dried corncob one with plenty of shade and a place to take an that served as a fishing cork. afternoon nap if the notion struck me. The rig was perfect for the brush-gnarled My brother Neil loved to fish, too, but he banks of that little creek, and through the years took bait collection to the next level when he of my youth, I pulled my share of bream and fashioned an old window screen into a minnow bluegill out of those waters. basket trap. I hadn’t thought of these stories in years, but It was cylinder shaped with a cone mouth, and you can always find interesting things when you he used pieces of loaf bread to tempt them inside. take the back roads. The minnows would swim in through the cone to get to the bread. Once inside, they couldn’t Rick Watson is a columnist and author. His find the small opening to escape. latest book, “Life Changes,” is available on It was an ingenious design for catching min- Amazon.com. You can contact him via email at nows and crawfish. rick@homefolkmedia.com.
C12 • March 2017
280 Living
280
Real Estate Listings MLS #
Zip
Address
Status
Price
773706
35242
1278 Eagle Park Road
New
$309,900
773819
35242
4192 Crossings Lane
New
$330,000
773816
35242
5229 Logan Drive
New
$250,000
773797
35242
1048 Eagle Hollow Drive
New
$425,000
773781
35242
2117 Kirkman Drive
New
$489,900
773749
35242
135 Salisbury Lane
New
$419,000
773729
35242
508 Seven Oaks Park
New
$398,500
773665
35242
1095 Baldwin Lane
New
$439,000
773561
35242
201 Ledge Circle
New
$698,000
773546
35242
4728 Eagle Wood Court
New
$349,900
773512
35242
1037 Linkside Drive
New
$324,900
773640
35242
564 Highland Park Circle
New
$469,900
773487
35242
2005 Drayton Place
New
$449,900
773398
35242
2032 King Stables Road
New
$749,000
773397
35242
1294 Legacy Drive
New
$729,900
773848
35043
231 Shore Front Lane
New
$469,900
773842
35043
189 Shore Front Lane
New
$489,900
773840
35043
177 Wisteria Drive
New
$239,500
773711
35043
448 Lake Chelsea Way
New
$319,900
773705
35043
228 Liberty Ridge Road
New
$239,900
Real estate listings provided by the Birmingham Association of Realtors on Feb. 13. Visit birminghamrealtors.com.
1278 Eagle Park Road
564 Highland Park Circle
280Living.com
March 2017 • C13
Calendar 280 Area Events Thursdays through May 4: Grief Share. 7 p.m. Faith Presbyterian Church (Room A103), 4601 Valleydale Road. Trained facilitators who have experienced grief just like you will guide you through one of life’s most difficult experiences and provide you with the tools to move forward. Visit griefshare. org/ groups/58606. Registration fee: $20 (includes workbook). March 1: Greater Shelby Ambassador Work Group. 11:30 a.m. Greater Shelby Chamber, 1301 County Services Drive, Pelham. Visit business. shelbychamber.org. March 1: Greater Shelby Chamber Small Business Work Group. 4 p.m. Location varies. Visit business.shelbychamber.org. March 2: South Shelby Chamber Luncheon. 11:30 a.m. Columbiana First Baptist Church. Visit southshelbychamber.com/events.
March 3: Greater Shelby Chamber Health Services Work Group. 8:30 a.m. Location varies. Visit business.shelbychamber.org. Visit business. shelbychamber.org. March 6: Greater Shelby Chamber - Small Business Mentorship Program. 8 a.m. Greater Shelby Chamber of Commerce, 1301 County Services Drive, Pelham. Visit business.shelbychamber.org. March 14: Greater Shelby Chamber Education Work Group. 8:30 a.m. Location varies. Visit business.shelbychamber.org. March 15: Greater Shelby Chamber Existing Business & Industry Work Group. 8:30 a.m. Location varies. Visit business.shelbychamber.org. March 21: Greater Shelby Chamber Entrepreneur Roundtable I. 8 a.m. Location TBD. Visit business.
North Shelby Library Kids All month: March Craft. Stop by the Children’s Department to pick up a craft to take home or make in the department. All ages are welcome. Supplies are limited. Mondays: Toddler Tales. 10 a.m. Stories, songs, fingerplays and crafts make up a lively 30-minute program designed especially for short attention spans. Ages 19-36 months. Registration required. Tuesdays: Baby Tales. 10 a.m. A story time designed especially for babies and their caregivers. Stories and music provide interaction for the babies and time for caregivers to talk and share with each other. Ages: Birth to 18 months. Registration Required. Registration will begin one week prior to program date. Wednesdays: Family Storytime with Mr. Mac. 10:45 a.m. Stories, puppets, and lots of music for every member of the family. All ages. No registration. Thursdays: PJ Story Time. 6:30 p.m. Come in your PJs, have milk and cookies, and hear some wonderful bedtime tales. All ages. No registration required. March 4: Lego Club. 10-11:30 a.m. The library provides the Legos, the kids provide the imagination and creativity. Families are welcome to drop in anytime between 10:00 and 11:00 to build spectacular creations. Creations will then go on display in the Children’s Department. All Ages Welcome. No registration is required. March 4: Dr. Seuss Birthday Bash. 10:30 a.m. Come celebrate Dr. Seuss’s birthday with a special party at the North Shelby Library! Featuring snacks, cupcake decorating, science activities, and crafts, this event has something for the whole family! All ages welcome. No registration required. March 7: Baby Tales. 10 a.m. Ages birth-18 months. March 14: Picture Book Club. 10 a.m. Join us for stories, games, crafts, and snacks featuring a different favorite book character each month. All ages welcome. Registration required. March 15: Homeschool Hangout: Turtles of Alabama. 1 p.m. Master Herpetologist Andy Coleman will be sharing which turtles call Alabama and the Birmingham area home. Come see a few of his turtle friends up close. Ages 7-12. Registration required. March 20: Garden Gates. 4 p.m. An hour of hands-on STEM fun with a nature focus, taught by a representative of the Birmingham Botanical Gardens. Get your hands dirty! March 23: Maker Madness. 4 p.m. Join us for an
hour of STEM learning and creativity! We’ll explore a new tech each month - from robotics and electronics to engineering and design, come express yourself with us! For ages 8-12. Registration is required. March 24: Preschool Kitchen Science. 10:30 a.m. Stories, songs and science experiments for preschoolers. March 28: Sensory Storytime. 10 a.m. A snackfree storytime for children with special needs with caregiver support, featuring fun picture books and songs, along with fine and gross motor movement activities. Special supports like fidget toys are available to help children be successful. Registration required.
shelbychamber.org. March 21: Greater Shelby Chamber Entrepreneur Roundtable 280. 11:30 a.m. Location TBD. Visit business.shelbychamber.org. March 26: Patriot’s Dinner. 6 p.m. Greystone Golf and Country Club. Dinner remarks from Sarah White. $195 individual, $350 per couple. March 27: Inaugural Patriot Shoot of Alabama Golf Tournament. Greystone Golf and Country Club. Benefiting the Folds of Honor, providing scholarships to the spouses and children of service members disabled or killed as a result of their military service to our country. Registration starts at $500. March 30: Greater Shelby Chamber Governmental Work Group. 8:30 a.m. Location varies. Visit shelbychamber.org.
Mt Laurel Library March 2: Mt. Laurel Book Club. 7 p.m. March 3 and 17: Toddler Tales. 10 a.m. March 3 and 17: Story Time with Ms. Kristy. 11 a.m. March 11: Crafty Saturday. 10 a.m. March 21: Picture Book Club 4 p.m. March 25: LEGO Club. 11 a.m.
Teens Tuesdays: Coding Club. 4 p.m. Teen Department. Come learn to code with Google CS First! Create and share your own digital stories! Grades 3 – 6. Registration required. Starts March 7. Fridays: Gaming. 3:30-5:45 p.m. Come to the teen department each Friday afternoon for open gaming: board games, card games, Wii, XBOX ONE, and Minecraft. Teens need a parent permission slip on file to attend. Contact Kate at 439-5512 or nsyouth@shelbycounty-al.org for more information. March 6-10: Teen Tech Week Pixel Art. Stop by the teen department to help decorate our windows with pixel art using sticky notes. Contact Kate at 439-5512 or nsyouth@shelbycounty-al.org for more information. March 9: Manga/Comic Book Club. 4 p.m. A whole hour devoted to manga and comic books. Share with each other what we’ve been reading and get ideas of what to read next. Snacks will be served. Contact Kate at 439-5512 or nsyouth@ shelbycounty-al.org for more information. March 13: Anime Night. 6 p.m. Join us in the teen department for an evening of anime. The audience will pick what we watch. Treats will be served and costumes are welcome! Contact Kate at 439-5512 or nsyouth@shelbycounty-al.org for more information. March 16: Teen Leadership Council Meeting. 6 p.m. Teen Leadership Council members contribute to the library and earn community service hours by planning programs and participating in service projects. Contact Kate at 439-5512 or nsyouth@ shelbycounty-al.org for more information. March 16: Try Not to Laugh. 6:30 p.m. How good are you at controlling your funny bone? Come try to be the last person not laughing. Register using our online calendar at www.northshelbylibrary.org. Snacks and prizes! This program was planned by the Teen Leadership Council. Contact Kate at 4395512 or nsyouth@shelbycounty-al.org for more information.
Chelsea Library Wednesdays: The Tot Spot. 10:30 a.m. A 30-minute story time for preschoolers. We read, sing, dance and sometimes craft. Visit chelsealibraryonline.com/calendar.html. Fridays: BYOC - Bring your own crochet (craft). 10 a.m. Audio/Reading room. Visit chelsealibraryonline.com/calendar.html. March 11: Lego Club. 9:30 a.m. For ages 5 and up. Visit chelsealibraryonline.com/ calendar.
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North Shelby Library cont. March 18: Volunteer Day. Help the library and earn community service hours! Volunteers can work 1-2 hours on a variety of tasks. Limit 5 volunteers; must be in grades 6-12. To sign up for a time, please contact Kate at 439-5512 or nsyouth@shelbycounty-al.org. Adult March 7: Computer Comfort. 10-11:30 a.m. Registration Required. $5 deposit required upon registration. Deposit returned upon attendance or when canceling at least 24 hours in advance. An introductory class covering the computer and various basic functions such as computer components and Windows navigation. We will discuss file management and go over other concerns you have about using a computer. March 10: Acrylics 101. 6-8 p.m. Cassidy Cash will be here to teach you how to paint with acrylics. Registration Required. $5 fee. Register at the library March 14: Internet for Beginners. 10 a.m.-noon. Registration Required. $5 deposit required upon registration. Deposit returned upon attendance or when canceling at least 24 hours in advance. The basics of navigating and searching the Internet for those with little to no experience. March 16: North Shelby Library Book Club. 10:30 a.m.-noon. Join us this month as we discuss Dead Wake by Erik Larson. Please call 205.439.5510 or email nsref@shelbycounty-al.org for more information. Registration Required. March 21: Email for Beginners. 10 a.m.-noon. Registration Required. $5 deposit required upon registration. Deposit returned upon attendance or when canceling at least 24 hours in advance. Learn how to use Gmail to send and reply to messages. We will also cover folders, drafts, and attachments. Time permitting we will cover contacts. If you have a Gmail account already, please make sure to bring your password. March 23: Color Therapy. 6-8 p.m. Disconnect from your busy day and just color it out. Registration Required.
280 Living
St. Vincent’s One Nineteen Wednesdays: Baby Café. 10 a.m.-noon. We invite breastfeeding moms to join us for our lactation support group meeting at St. Vincent’s One Nineteen. Moms will have the opportunity to meet with a lactation consultant, as well as network with other breastfeeding moms. The group is designed to give breastfeeding moms encouragement and support, as well as helpful information and tips from our expert. This event is free, but please call Rosie at 930-2807 to reserve your space. March 4: Lupus Support Group. 10 a.m.noon. This group supporting lupus patients and their families will meet the first Saturday of every month at St. Vincent’s One Nineteen. This month a discussion will revolve around a Q & A session. This event is free and is sponsored by the LUPUS Foundation of America-MID-SOUTH Chapter. Call 1-877-865-8787 for more information. March 6 and 20: Next Chapter Book Club/ Greystone Chapter. 4:30-5:15 p.m. Book club meeting follows the Hoover School System calendar. The Next Chapter Book Club (NCBC) offers weekly opportunities for people with developmental disabilities to read and learn together, talk about books, and make friends in a relaxed, community setting. This group meets at St. Vincent’s One Nineteen in the Wellness Area. March 7, 15 and 27: Wake Up to Wellness. 9-11 a.m. To promote healthy living and to highlight the wide range of services and offerings here at St. Vincent’s One Nineteen, we will offer education at various times during the month. Stop by the Front Desk between 9-11 a.m. for the following events: March 7 – Wellness – Wheel of Excitement Nutrition Quiz for National Nutrition Month; March 15 – Fitness – Warm up for Brenda Ladun Conquer Cancer Run; March 27 – Spa - Spring into Healthy Skin. March 7: Thyme to Cook for Kids. 4-6 p.m. Dinner 6-6:45 p.m. Kids, come and have some fun with others your age (six to 12 years old) at
St. Vincent’s One Nineteen making white bean chicken chili, broccoli-cheese cornbread and surprise lemon pie. Parents, meet your young chef at 6 p.m. and let them serve you their special meal. The cost is $25 per child, and $5 per family member with an advanced reservation. Please call 408-6600 by March 3 to register. March 14: Blood Pressure/Body Mass Index Screening. 8-11:30 a.m. A representative from Wellness Services will be screening for blood pressure and BMI in the front entrance of St. Vincent’s One Nineteen. These screenings are free. March 14: Cuisine at One Nineteen: Eli’s Jerusalem Grill. 6-7:30 p.m. If you are passionate about Israeli cuisine or just curious how to make simple authentic dishes that are full flavored, delicious and healthy, come enjoy a demo and dinner with Eli and Laurel Markshtien from Eli's Jerusalem Grill. Bring a friend and experience flavorful organic, non-GMO, and grass-fed cuisine with a taste of wine from Galilee, Israel. Menu includes garlic chicken, rice, couscous, tabouli, hummus and pita and baklava. The cost is $25 per person. Please call 408-6600 for reservations. Childcare available with advanced specified reservations. March 17: More with Less – Maximizing Your Ingredients. 11 a.m.-noon. Wondering what to do with the rest of the fresh herb and box of grain you bought for that special recipe? Join Registered Dietitian Donna Sibley as she shares how to plan meals to use up the ingredients you purchase to avoid waste and enjoy more meals with fewer ingredients. Cost is $12 for recipes and tasting. Please call 408-6600 to register by Wednesday, March 15th. March 18: Brenda La Run. Race at 8 a.m., fun run at 9:15 a.m. The 13th annual Brenda Ladun Conquer Cancer Run will again feature a 5k race and a one-mile color explosion fun run. The event represents the hope that those lost to cancer will never be forgotten – that those who face cancer will be supported – and that one day
we will find a cure for cancer. Participants will receive complimentary food and giveaways from local vendors, as well as free blood pressure and vision screenings, massage for runners and $99 mammograms. To register, visit HYPERLINK "https://runsignup.com/race/al/Birmingham/conquercancerrun" \t "_blank" runsignup.com/race/ al/Birmingham/conquercancerrun. March 20: Comprehensive Diabetes Education. 9 a.m.-1 p.m. If you have diabetes or are at risk, this seminar at St. Vincent’s One Nineteen is a must. A physician’s referral is required, and pre-assessments given preceding the class date. To register, please call 939-7248. March 21: Beautiful Beginnings. 5:30-7 p.m. If you're thinking about starting a family or anticipating the arrival of a new baby, join us at St. Vincent’s One Nineteen for Beautiful Beginnings. This free event brings pregnancy healthcare experts together in one convenient location, just for you. You can expect an evening dedicated to education, resources, answers to your pregnancy related questions and lots of fun. Nosh on delicious hors d'oeuvres, enjoy mocktails and register for door prizes. This event will provide all the information you need about getting ready to have a baby. Space is limited, register now at onenineteen.com for this free event. March 22: Wellness Screenings. 7:30 a.m.-5 p.m. To stay abreast of your numbers, cholesterol, blood glucose, blood pressure, BMI and waist circumference, screenings will be held by appointment at St. Vincent’s One Nineteen. Results and interpretation in fifteen minutes with a simple finger stick. The cost is $20 for members and non-members. Call 408-6550 to register. March 23: Breakfast with the Expert – The MIND Diet for Brain Health. 8-9 a.m. Join Jessica Ivey, RD, a registered dietitian at St. Vincent’s One Nineteen, as she discusses promising research on dietary patterns and their effects on Alzheimer’s disease and dementia. Enjoy this presentation and a light breakfast.
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March 2017 • C15
Area Events March 1-4: AHSAA Boys and Girls High School Basketball Championships. 9 a.m. daily. $10. Visit ahsaa.com.
Samford Theatre. $15 students, $25 general admission. 8 p.m. nightly, 3 p.m. Sundays. Visit virginiasamfordtheatre.org.
March 1: UAB Music Student Recital. 12:20 p.m. Mary Culp Hulsey Recital Hall. Free. Visit uab.edu.
March 17: Winter Jam 2017. 7 p.m. Legacy Arena at the BJCC. $10 general admission. Visit 2017. jamtour.com.
March 2: Birmingham Art Crawl. 5 p.m.-9 p.m. 113 22nd St. N. Meet local artists and performers and buy their work. Visit birminghamartcrawl.com. March 2: UAB men’s basketball vs. Florida Atlantic. 7 p.m. Bartow Arena. $5, $3 ages 3-17, UAB students free with student ID. Visit uabsports.com. March 2: Live at the Lyric- Southern Broussard, Anders Osborne and Luther Dickinson. 8 p.m. Lyric Theatre. $29.50-$49.50. Visit lyricbham.com/events. March 3: Alabama Symphony Orchestra Coffee Concert. 11 a.m. Alys Stephens Center. $18-$34. Visit alabamasymphony.org. March 3: Norah Jones. 8 p.m. BJCC Concert Hall. $40-$108. Visit ticketmaster.com March 3: The Black Jacket Symphony. 8 p.m. Alabama Theatre. Performing “Queen: A Night at the Opera.” $25-$115. Visit alabamatheatre.com/events. March 3-5: Cottontails Arts & Crafts Show. BJCC Exhibition Halls. 10 a.m.-8 p.m. Friday; 10 a.m.-8 p.m. Saturday, Noon-5 p.m. Sunday. $6 adults, $3 children 6-12. Visit christmasvillagefestival.org/cottontails. March 3-5 and 10-12: STARS presents Disney’s Alice in Wonderland, Jr. Virginia Samford Theatre. 7:30 p.m. Friday, 2:30 p.m. Saturday and Sunday. Visit $15-$20. Visit virginiasamfordtheatre.org. March 3-5: Birmingham Ballet: Cinderella. 7:30 p.m. Friday and Saturday, 2 p.m. Saturday and Sunday. $30-$45. Visit birminghamballet.com. March 4: Law Enforcement Torch Run for Special Olympics Polar Plunge. 9:30 a.m. Oak Mountain State Park. $25 per plunger. Visit eventbrite.com. March 4: 2017 Birmingham Heart Ball. 6 p.m. Barber Motorsports Museum. An evening of hope and entertainment benefiting the American Heart Association. Visit americanheartbirmingham.org. March 5: Ahn Trio. 2 p.m. Alys Stephens Center. $42-$78. Visit alysstephens.org. March 5: Rachmaninoff Piano Concerti No. 1 & 2. 7:30 p.m. Mary Culp Hulsey Recital Hall. Presented by the UAB Department of Music, featuring student pianists Mira Walker and Jacob Skiles with Yakov Kasman playing the orchestra reduction. Visit uab.edu.
March 17: Alabama Symphony Orchestra Red Diamond SuperPops! Series. 8 p.m. Alys Stephens Center. $25-$58. Visit alabamasymphony.org. March 17: Live at the Lyric- Sam Bush. 8 p.m. $22-$39.50. Visit lyricbham.com. March 18: Spring Walking Tour - Downtown, A First Look. 9 a.m. and 4 p.m. Vulcan Park and Museum. $10 members, $12 non-members. Registration required. Visit visitvulcan.com. March 18: Southeastern Outings Dayhike. 10 a.m. Lake Guntersville State Park. Depart from Kmart on Green Springs. Call 205-317-6969 for information. March 18-19: Tannehill Trade Days. 8 a.m.-4 p.m. Tannehill State Park. $5 adults, $4 seniors, $3 children. Visit tannehill.org. March 18-19: Alabama Gun Collectors Association Spring Show. 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Saturday; 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Sunday. Visit algca.org. March 18-19: In Her Own Fashion. Red Mountain Theatre Company, Cabaret Theatre. Tickets start at $15. 7:30 p.m. Saturday, 2 p.m. Sunday. Visit redmountaintheatre.org. March 19: Alabama Wildlife Center & Audubon Teaches Nature- Mysteries of Bird Migration. 2 p.m. Alabama Wildlife Center, Oak Mountain State Park. Visit awrc.org. March 19: Southeastern Outings Wildflower Walk. 2 p.m. Wildwood Wildflower Preserve. Depart from parking lot of medical building on Lakeshore Drive. Call 205-417-2777 for information. March 19: Alabama Symphony Youth Orchestra Side by Side. 3 p.m. Alys Stephens Center. $10 adults, $7 ages 12 and under. March 21: The Brain Candy Live Tour: Adam Savage & Michael Stevens.7:30 p.m. BJCC Concert Hall. $30-$76. Visit ticketmaster.com. March 21: UAB music senior flute recital featuring Marta Pirosca. 7:30 p.m. Free. March 23: UAB Music Guest Artist concert. 10:30 a.m. Featuring percussion duo Escape Ten. Free.
March 6: BAO Bingo. 7 p.m. Birmingham AIDS Outreach. $15-$25. Visit birminghamaidsoutreach.org.
March 24: Charlie Wilson’s In It To Win It Tour. 7:30 p.m. Legacy Arena at the BJCC. $49.50-$87. Visit charliewilsontour.com.
March 6-10: Theatre UAB’s 14th Annual Festival of 10-Minute Plays. 7:30 p.m. Alys Stephens Center, Odess Theatre. $5. Visit alysstephens.org.
March 25: Magic City Cycliad. 8 a.m. Railroad Park. Bike ride benefiting the Deep South Cancer Foundation. Visit deepsouthcancer.org.
March 7: UAB Music Guest Artist Recital. 7:30 p.m. Featuring clarinetist Sarunas Jankauskas. Free. Visit uab.edu.
March 25: Rumpshaker 5K and 1M fun run. 8 a.m. Regions Field. Fundraiser for colorectal cancer. Visit rumpshaker5k.com.
March 9: The Fab Four. 7:30 p.m. Alabama Theatre. Beatles tribute band. $17.50-$47.50. Visit alabamatheatre.com.
March 25: Southeastern Outings Potluck Lunch and Easy Dayhike. 9 a.m. Paul Grist State Park near Selma. Three mile hike. Call 205-526-2253 for information.
March 9: UAB Music Chamber Concert. 7:30 p.m. Mary Culp Hulsey Recital Hall. Featuring violinist Julia Sakharova and pianist Yakov Kasman. Free. Visit uab. edu. March 11: SpringFest. 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Hand In Hand. Presented by UCP of Greater Birmingham. Free admission. Food and tickets for games available. Visit ucpbham.com. March 11: Natural Hair and Health Expo. 10 a.m.6 p.m. BJCC Exhibition Hall. $12.75. Visit naturalhairandhealthexpo.com. March 11: Southeastern Outings Dayhike, Sipsey Wilderness, Bankhead National Forest. Time TBA. Four-mile hike Call 205-631-4680 for information. March 11: John Pizzarelli. 8 p.m. Alys Stephens Center. $32-$57. Visit alysstephens.org. March 12: Southeastern Outings Second Sunday Dayhike in Oak Mountain State Park. 1 p.m. Fourmile walk in the woodlands. Depart from the Oak Mountain Park office parking lot. Park admission fee $5/person. Call 205-991-1045 for information. March 16-19 & 23-26: Exit Laughing. Virginia
March 25-26: Repticon Birmingham. Reptile and exotic animal show. 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Saturday, 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Sunday. $12 adult, $5 ages 5-12, under 4, free. Visit repticon.com. March 25: Still Standing: The Melba Moore Story.7:30 p.m. Virginia Samford Theatre. $20-$25. Visit virginiasamfordtheatre.org. March 26: UAB Piano series concert. 4 p.m. Featuring Korean-American pianist Esther Park. $15 general admission, $5 students through 12th grade and UAB employees, UAB students free. Visit uab. edu March 26: Home Free. 7:30 p.m. Alabama Theatre. $25.50-$123. Visit alabamatheatre.com. March 29: UAB Student Recital: Advanced Students. 12:20 p.m. Free. Visit uab.edu. March 30: UAB Music presents Eamon Griffith. 7:30 p.m. Free. Visit uab.edu. March 31-April 1: Alabama Symphony Orchestra EBSCO Masterworks Series. 7:30 p.m. $25-$74. Visit alabamasymphony.org.