280 Living February 2023

Briarwood student soars with epilepsy awareness efforts

By JON ANDERSON

For six years, Elaina Burt has watched her cousin, Charlie Wilson, battle epilepsy caused by a gene mutation called SMC1A.

Charlie is nonverbal, stays in a chair all day long and is fed through a tube. She’s on medication for epilepsy, but if she didn’t have the medication, she would continuously have seizures all day, said Burt, a 17-year-old who lives in Riverchase.

“We’ve really had to grapple with the unfairness of that,” Burt said.

Burt, a junior at Briarwood Christian School who was named Miss Jefferson County’s Outstanding Teen last July, decided to take action. She started a nonprofit called Charlie’s Chance and now works to raise awareness about epilepsy, advocate for people suffering from it and raise money to enrich their lives.

See BURT | page A24

Jim Baker, right, and his son Jake run on the indoor track at Ascension St. Vincent’s One Nineteen nine months after Jim suffered a heart attack.

Healing the heart

Brook Highland man’s journey back to health

By LEAH INGRAM EAGLE

It has been 18 months since Jim Baker suffered a heart attack in July 2021. He was 55 years old and in good health and

hadn’t had any previous heart symptoms. The only pill he took each day was a vitamin.

“It caught me completely out of the blue,” Baker said. “I had pain around 1 p.m. and went to the emergency room around 10 p.m. The pain was incredibly bad in my chest, but I still didn’t think I was having a heart attack even when my wife was driving me to the ER.”

See BAKER | page A26

Miss Jefferson County’s Outstanding Teen Elaina Burt, a junior at Briarwood Christian School, stands in front of a plane at Over the Mountain Aviation at the Shelby County Airport. Burt is scheduled to take her Federal Aviation Administration check ride on Feb. 4 to get her private pilot license. Photo by Erin Nelson.

Photo courtesy of Mary Katherine Tullo.

From Arkansas with Love

This Valentine’s season, we’re celebrating a couple with a whole lot of love and the XL SUV that brought them to us! Justin and Blakely drove down from Arkansas to take home their perfect new 2022 GMC Yukon XL. Marriage may be about the journey, but when it comes to finding a new ride, you’ve got to have a destination in mind; we’re honored the Weatherfords chose us! For every love story, there’s Royal!

More about the GMC Yukon

The 2022 GMC Yukon XL excels in both form and function. Tow up to 8,400 lbs. with the available Max Trailering Package. Enjoy Google Built-In services in a 10.2” Premium GMC Infotainment System. Plus, the XL adds extra third-row legroom and 16 cubic feet more cargo space. Explore it all today at Royal Buick GMC.

For every ride there’s Royal.

Royal Buick GMC (205) 778-3721 RoyalBuickGMC.net At the Corner of I-65 and Highway 31 | 3010 Columbiana Road, Vestavia Hills

Justin and Blakely Weatherford with their GMC Yukon XL.

About Us

Editor’s Note By Leah Ingram Eagle

While February is widely known for Valentine’s Day, it is also recognized as American Heart Month as a time to focus on cardiovascular health.

According to the American Heart Association, 84 million people in the U.S. suffer from some form of cardiovascular disease, which can lead to heart attacks, strokes or other serious complications.

Although my dad has had some heart events over the years, and has had several stents put in place, I had never given much thought to my own heart health until recently.

Last fall, I began experiencing rapid heart beats, which I thought may be related to anxiety or stress.

After a few weeks of symptoms, I decided it was time to make an appointment with my primary care physician. He ordered a myriad of tests, and I wore a heart monitor for two weeks.

When all the results came back, this is what we found out:

► The CT results showed no evidence of any coronary calcium (no radiographic evidence of early heart disease).

► Echocardiogram results showed everything was within normal limits

► Heart monitor results showed occasional atrial tachycardia and possibly ventricular tachycardia.

The next step was to follow up

with a cardiologist. I booked an appointment with my dad’s doctor, since he's been seeing him well over a decade. We went over all my prior test results, and he decided it would be best if I take a low dose of Metoprolol. While it is often prescribed for high blood pressure, it also slows down your heart rate and makes it easier for your heart to pump blood around your body.

Since starting the prescription, I’ve only had my symptoms a few times. I go back in April for a follow-up appointment. So this month (and every month), I encourage everyone to take good care of your hearts, and if you experience anything out of the ordinary, pay a visit to your doctor.

PHOTO OF THE MONTH

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Find Us

Pick up the latest issue of 280 Living at the following locations:

► Alabama Outdoors

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► Chelsea High School

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The Spain Park student section cheers as the Jags face Hewitt-Trussville on Jan. 13. Photo by Erin Nelson.

Mayor discusses details of master plan for Chelsea High School

By LEAH INGRAM EAGLE

Since the citizens of Chelsea voted against forming a city school system in July, plans are now underway to partner with other entities on a master plan for Chelsea High School.

Chelsea Mayor Tony Picklesimer said that in early December, he, along with council member Scott Weygand, met with Shelby County Schools Superintendent Lewis Brooks and Assistant Superintendent David Calhoun and presented a master plan for renovations, additions and improvements to CHS and its existing facilities.

The plan was subsequently presented to the entire Chelsea City Council, Westover Mayor Larry Riggins and Shelby County Manager Chad Scroggins. A presentation of the plan has also been given to members of the faculty and administration of the high school.

“This master plan is very extensive,” Picklesimer said. “It includes classroom additions, a cafeteria expansion, an upgrade to the facade of the main building, upgrades to the Lady Hornet Softball Complex, a renovation of the football stadium [for increased seating capacity and addition of restrooms and concession areas] and additional student parking.”

A competition gymnasium and arena and multipurpose facility that can be utilized for indoor training by all sports and activities is the largest part of the master plan. Picklesimer said this facility would allow CHS to host regional sporting events and would include a new locker room space.

The multipurpose building would also include banquet facilities, meeting spaces, additional common areas and a cafeteria and concession area.

“Having a facility like this would set us apart from all other schools in the Shelby County

School System and would be one of the premier facilities in the entire state,” Picklesimer said. “This facility would be something that we could all be very proud of.”

The project will be a partnership between the City of Chelsea, Shelby County Board of Education, the City of Westover and the Shelby County Commission.

Later in January, a public meeting will be held at Chelsea City Hall where Brooks, Calhoun and representatives from Lathan & Associates

Architects will present the plan. The public is encouraged to attend to see the presentation, offer input and ask questions.

“I believe that this project is certainly worthy of our investment and will give our students and our city something to be proud of that is much needed and that will be enjoyed for decades to come,” Picklesimer said.

The presentation date and time will be announced on the city’s social media outlets and website.

Mayor Tony Picklesimer, third from right, discusses details of the master plan for Chelsea High School during the Jan. 3 Chelsea City Council meeting.

Other items on the agenda during the Jan. 3 city council meeting included:

► A proclamation declaring April 24, 2023, as Love Persevering Day in the City of Chelsea.

► Reappointing Bart Pettus, David Ingram, Mark Glausier, Casey Morris, Laura Cruce, Nina Janchenko, Jonathan Gill, John Chamblee and Tiffany Bolen to the Park and Recreation Board.

► Assuming responsibility for streets in Lime Creek Subdivision

► Approval to pay the city’s bills

Photo by Leah Ingram Eagle.

Council approves funds for CPES gym, additional funds for CHS band

By LEAH INGRAM EAGLE

The Chelsea City Council unanimously approved spending $4.2 million for construction of a new gym at Chelsea Park Elementary during its Jan. 17 meeting.

The council authorized the mayor to enter into an agreement with the Shelby County Board of Education for construction of eight additional classrooms and a gymnasium. The county will cover the costs of the classrooms, and funds for the gymnasium will come from the city’s education fund.

“Currently Chelsea Park Elementary School does not have a gymnasium,” Mayor Tony Picklesimer said. “They have an activity room. The Shelby County Board of Education put out a bid to have eight classrooms and a gym built, and the total for that bid was $8.2 million.”

The city also paid for the Forest Oaks Elementary gym when it was built a decade ago. Picklesimer said he is working with Superintendent Lewis Brooks on a payment plan and has suggested the city pay $1 million each October from 2023 to 2025 and pay the remaining balance in October 2026. However, a specific payment arrangement has not been reached.

The project has an estimated completion date of 18 months.

The council also approved an additional $35,000 Nick Grant for the Chelsea High School band to purchase uniforms. The council had previously agreed to pay $70,000 to cover 70% of the cost, but the cost of the uniforms turned out to be more than expected at $140,000 instead $100,000.

The last purchase was 10 years ago for new jackets only, and pants have been purchased in batches over the years, some of which are now 25 years old, Lawley said.

The band is currently having a donation campaign to raise their 30% of the funds (around $42,000) and has already raised almost $11,000 during the first week. Lawley said he hopes to place the order later this month or in

early February so the uniforms will be in for marching season this fall.

Councilman Casey Morris said the band is a crucial part of Friday night and they are doing their part by raising money to cover 30% of the total cost.

During the mayor’s report, Picklesimer recognized Amber Polk, a Chelsea resident and newly elected Shelby County Board of Education member.

“Whenever I see one of our citizens offer themselves for service in an elected position, it means a lot to me,” he said. “This is a volunteer position that controls the future of our young people in Chelsea and Shelby County. I want to publicly say thank you for your service.”

Polk said it’s an honor to serve the community and she looks forward to the city and

Board of Education working together.

Picklesimer also recognized the 7A State Championship Chelsea High School girls cross-country team, who was in attendance, along with their coaches.

“We are so proud of all of you. You showed us you’re ready to be 7A,” Picklesimer said.

The team also presented the mayor with a commemorative state championship trophy.

The council also:

► Authorized the mayor to enter an agreement with the Shelby County Commission and Shelby County Highway Department for the installation and maintenance of traffic control signals at Shelby County 36 and Shelby County 11.

► Annexed 7.04 acres at 411 Signal Valley Trail

Chelsea Park Elementary School will be getting an 8 classroom addition and new gymnasium.

Important dates

► Feb. 7 and 21: City Council meetings, 6 p.m.

► Feb. 9: ALDOT open house meeting, 4-6 p.m.

► Feb. 25: Kiwanis Pancake Breakfast at Chelsea Community Center, 8 a.m. to noon.

► Declared the former Bernie’s building next to Fire Station 31 as surplus and agreed to sell it. The building will become the new location of HDC Huntstore and Gunsmithing.

Photo by Erin Nelson.

Budget amendments approved for FY23, park and rec grants announced

By LEAH INGRAM EAGLE

The Shelby County Commission adopted several budget amendments for personnel during the Jan. 9 commission meeting. The funds for those positions will not add to the fiscal 2023 budget, but instead will come from fiscal 2022 carryover and fund balance reserves.

Shelby County Manager Chad Scroggins had previously identified opportunities for several efficiency improvements and needs in the staffing structure, and due to the commission’s conservative budgeting, the funds are there to take care of them, he said.

From the general fund, $350,000 of carryover funds from fiscal 2022 will be used for partnering projects to increase and improve recreational opportunities within the county.

Also from the general fund will come the development of a capital asset grant program for EMS Transport Support to purchase vehicles for municipal and district entities. This will be done with $1.3 million of supporting revenue from fiscal 2022.

“A little less than two years ago, we did an incentive program for EMS transport in the county,” Scroggins said. “EMS transport in every county in the state of Alabama is not sufficient. The question is, do we want to sit around and allow it to continue not to be sufficient? Or do we want to try to solve the problem?”

“We're preparing to start an incentive program that purchases the capital for EMS transport, and rely on our municipal partners to provide the personnel of which you know, with EMS transport, you do build insurance so they can then get revenue to offset the costs,” he added

Three positions need to be filled for landfill

and water services, including a pair of two full-time equipment operators at the landfill.

“Our landfill has grown significantly over the years,” Scroggins said. “We have new ADEM policies. … It's going to require us to make sure that we do things differently than we've done in the past.”

This will require an adjustment to the budget of $93,258, which will come from fund reserves.

The Water Services Department will add an assistant superintendent over the water plants, and the $56,432 will be funded from existing budgeted revenues.

a division of Gardner Landscaping LLC

“You need to have one [person] in each [of the plants] to make sure that the system is running at all points in time,” Scroggins said. “Also, it creates a pathway for growth in the future.”

Commissioner Lindsey Allison pointed out the distinction that historically, they do not amend the budget during the year.

“We are not increasing our operational expenses out of the general fund,” Allison said. “We do hold the line of not amending our budget, we stick to our budget through the year — not changing policy — but we have to be flexible and these are designated revenues.

They can only be spent for that.”

Scroggins agreed that it is a very delicate balance and it isn’t done lightly.

Commission Chairman Kevin Morris said he appreciated the open communication and that all of the items had been discussed long before the budget adoption.

“This will make Shelby County the pacesetter with EMS service, and people are going to look at and see how they can replicate it. This is one of the few service gaps all nine of us [commissioners] share equally and being able to do that with carryover funds is amazing.”

The commission also approved park and recreation grants for the fiscal 2023 funding cycle in the amount of $342,049.47. They included the following seven grants:

► City of Harpersville, $13,704.00

► City of Helena, $91,036.97

► Dogwood Community Center, $15,200.00

► Inverness Elementary School, $60,000.00

► Helena Elementary School/PTO, $61,563.50

► Oak Mountain Youth Baseball & Softball Association, $98,045.00

► Oak Mountain High School, $2,500.00

During the county manager’s report, Scroggins mentioned the fitness courts project at Veterans Park on Valleydale Road, a partnership with the city of Hoover, should be complete in a week, and work is also nearing an end at Cahaba River Park in Helena. Over the New Year’s weekend, he said, it was estimated that there were over 250 people hiking at Double Oak Park at one time.

The commission approved the County Rebuild Alabama Annual Report for fiscal 2022, which shows how all of the $2.9 million received was spent.

Commissioner Lindsey Allison, left, discusses the appropriation of commission funds during the Jan. 8 Shelby County Commission meeting. Photo by Leah Ingram Eagle.

Physician-driven, patient-centered kidney care

Nephrology Associates, P.C. 205.226.5900 | NephrologyPC.com

Offices in: Alabaster • Anniston • Bessemer • Birmingham

Clanton • Gadsden • Gardendale • Greystone • Homewood

Jasper • Oneonta • Pell City • Trussville • Winfield

There have been amazing scientific medical advances in medicine in recent years – a non-smoking acquaintance in his 40’s was diagnosed with metastatic lung cancer several years ago, and instead of a life expectancy of 6 months or so, he is living very comfortably taking a pill specifically designed for his cancer, for which he had a genetic predisposition. These incredible and transformative breakthroughs have been seen in many fields of medicine, but unfortunately, advancements in treatment for patients with kidney disease have lagged behind.

Due to the cost and complexity of care of patients with kidney disease, however, one area of innovation for which kidney disease care is becoming a proving ground is care delivery. Patients with chronic kidney disease are generally very medically complex, with higher rates of heart disease, cancer, and even gastrointestinal bleeding than the general population. They have significant care coordination needs focused on preventing worsening of kidney disease, preparation for kidney transplant, and unfortunately preparation for dialysis when appropriate. All of these facets of care require extensive and iterative education; there are many appointments required with various specialists at many different facilities (for which patients require something as simple as transportation); patients with kidney disease often require very extensive and complex medication regimens. Well-intentioned and hard-working nephrologists cannot provide all of this support alone, and deficiencies in support and care lead to worse outcomes for patients, increased hospitalizations, and significantly greater cost to the healthcare system as a whole.

CMS and private insurance companies are acutely aware of these problems. As a result of a combination of the Affordable Care Act of 2010 and the Executive Order Advancing American Kidney Health of 2019, in addition to a change in eligibility for Medicare Advantage plans for patients with End-Stage Kidney Disease (ESKD), we now have an opportunity to partner with both CMS and private insurers to make radical changes to our care delivery models in an effort to increase support, education, and care for patients with kidney disease – and doing so will almost assuredly lower costs.

The phrase being used for these changes in care delivery is “Value-Based Care.” There are a number of healthcare companies attempting to provide some of these services via care management systems run primarily by nurses and other support staff, often remotely, and rarely in partnership with a patient’s physician. In our case, I prefer a phrase that is less catchy but more accurate: “Physician-driven, patient-centered care.” It is physician driven because nephrologists will be taking responsibility and financial risk for every facet of their patients’ care. It is patient-centered because every medical decision we make in partnership with our patients will be guided only by what is best for those individual patients. Now, I would like to think that all of us as physicians have always made decisions for patients based only on what is best for them – but in a

fee-for-service system, we must all recognize that distorted incentives exist that affect how patients are cared for.

Along with 16 other practices nationwide, our practice has partnered with Evergreen Nephrology to provide physician-driven patient-centered care to our patients in need. Over the next several years, we expect to provide these expanded services to a majority of our ESKD and advanced CKD patients. We will be doing home visits, providing mental health support services where needed, addressing transportation limitations, education and patient engagement, food insecurity, early support and education for transplant services, medication review and education, just to name a few facets of care we will provide. Using data analytics and other advancements in information technology, we will be accessing all of a patient’s available electronic health information and leveraging that access and predictive modeling to identify and intervene on the highest-risk patients to make their lives better. We will be heavily focused on disease prevention and stabilization to reduce the number of patients who are forced to start dialysis or undergo transplantation; for those who worsen despite our best efforts, we will be helping to coordinate kidney transplantation when possible – hopefully before a patient ever needs dialysis if possible. For those who are forced to start dialysis, we will be highly focused on Home Dialysis modalities which have equivalent outcomes to standard in-center dialysis, but much better quality of life scores at a lower overall cost.

It is a very exciting time in nephrology as a result of these care delivery innovations. Our programs begin for a relatively small number of patients on 1/1/23, and we hope to increase those numbers dramatically over the next several years. I feel certain that our efforts will yield better, happier, and healthier lives for our patients, and I can’t wait to see to see the results.

Thomas Watson, M.D. is Board-Certified in Nephrology and Internal Medicine by the American Board of Internal Medicine. Born in Lexington, KY, he graduated magna cum laude with a degree in Chemistry from Vanderbilt University. Dr. Watson received his medical education in Atlanta at Emory University where he was president of his graduating class. He continued his training in Internal Medicine and Nephrology at New York-Presbyterian Hospital of Cornell University in New York, NY, where he was also honored to serve as assistant chief medical resident.

His interests include chronic kidney disease treatment and prevention, hypertension, electrolyte abnormalities, acute renal failure, and interventional nephrology—for which he is certified by the American Society of Diagnostic and Interventional Nephrology. He performs procedures at the Nephrology Vascular Lab. He is a member of the American Society of Nephrology, the Renal Physicians Association, and the American Society of Diagnostic and Interventional Nephrology.

Thomas H. Watson, M.D.

Business Happenings

NOW OPEN

Sherwin-Williams has opened a new 12,500-square-foot paint store at 6309 Adena Lane in The Shoppes at Adena next to Tattersall Park.

205-734-4547, sherwin-williams.com

Now open at The Summit, Blue Sushi Sake Grill offers soups, salads, nigiri, sashimi, maki and a variety of shared plates. The restaurant is open 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. Monday-Wednesday, 11 a.m. to 9:30 p.m. Thursday, 11 a.m. to 11 p.m. Friday-Saturday and noon-9 p.m. Sunday. 205-922-0880, bluesushisakegrill.com

Now open at The Summit, Teaspoon is a creative, new-age boba tea café serving unique, handcrafted drinks that was established in 2015 in California’s bay area. Hours are 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. Monday-Saturday and 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. Sunday.

205-200-2229, teaspoonlife.com

Papa John’s recently opened in the Chelsea Corners shopping center offering delivery and carryout. papajohns.com

Evereve has opened a new location at The Summit offering curated, contemporary women’s fashion.

205-598-6268, evereve.com

Sonic Drive-In has opened its new restaurant at 30 Meadowview Drive in

the Meadow Brook area, just off U.S. 280. Hours are 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. daily. 205-637-6769, sonicdrivein.com

Mavis Tires & Brakes opened a new location at 6301 Adena Lane at The Shoppes at Adena Lane in Hoover, next to Tattersall Park, on Dec. 29. 205-949-4316, mavis.com

Pizza Hut has opened in the former Taco Bell location in the Publix shopping center on Valleydale Road. This location offers carry out and delivery and is open seven days a week from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. 205-778-1905, pizzahut.com

COMING SOON

The Summit will soon welcome Birmingham’s third location of The Ono Poke restaurant, an intersection of Japanese and Hawaiian cuisine. Guests can enjoy creating their own poke bowls from a variety of fresh ingredients. theonopoke.com

NEWS AND ACCOMPLISHMENTS

Regions, with multiple branches in the U.S. 280 corridor, has been designated as a 2023 Military Friendly Employer and 2023 Military Spouse Friendly Employer by Military Friendly, an organization that measures the commitment of companies to create professional opportunities that leverage military experience. Regions established a career transition program

Business news to share? If you have news to share with the community about a brick-and-mortar business along the 280 Corridor, let us know at 280living.com/about-us

called BRAVE — Building Regions Associate Veteran Experience — specifically for the purpose of supporting veterans and military spouses during their transitions to the civilian workforce. The bank is also a member of the Military Spouse Employment Partnership, a Department of Defense career program connecting military spouses with hundreds of member employers who commit to recruit, hire, promote and retain military spouses. 205-766-8500, regions.com

Warren Averett CPAs and Advisors was recently named as one of the Best Companies to Work for in Alabama. This annual program is in its 13th year, and it was created by Business Alabama magazine and Best Companies Group. This survey and awards program was designed to identify, recognize and honor the best employers in Alabama that benefit the economy, workforce and businesses. The list is made up of more than 30 companies. Warren Averett was ranked second in the Large Companies category.

205-979-4100, warrenaverett.com

Waverly Advisors, formerly WA Asset Management, recently announced the acquisition of Sandifer Wealth Management of Mobile, marking its fourth location in the state. This will be Waverly’s ninth office in the southeast, as the firm looks to continue its expansion moving into the new year. Waverly Advisors Birmingham firm serves Vestavia Hills,

Mountain Brook, Hoover and other surrounding areas.

205-871-3334, waverly-advisors.com

The Hoover City Council has awarded Bama Utility Contractors of Fultondale a $1.56 million contract to improve a sewer pump station in the Applecross community.

205-849-7826

PERSONNEL MOVES

Burn Boot Camp has added Ashley Nolin as a trainer at both the Hoover and Meadow Brook locations. Nolin was a gymnast for 12 years and cheerleader for six years. She graduated from Auburn University with a degree in apparel merchandising and a minor in business. She also is a certified personal trainer and recently won first place in all categories in her first National Physique Committee bodybuilding competition.

205-903-8154, burnbootcamp.com

ANNIVERSARIES

Fancy Fur Pet Grooming & Boutique is celebrating its 15th anniversary at its Inverness location. The company offers specialty pet items and food, as well as grooming for all breeds. 205-408-1693, fancyfurpets.com

CLOSINGS

The Krispy Kreme at 5357 U.S. 280 has closed. krispykreme.com

New pizzeria offers authentic Italian wood-fired pizzas

By GRACE THORNTON

At Capella Pizzeria, more than just the inspiration for the dish comes from Italy.

The ingredients do, too, as well as the training to make the authentic wood-fired pizzas.

Because of that, owner Mehmet Ozbey said he hopes the restaurant — located at 4700 U.S. 280 in the Inverness Village Center — will “feel like a little corner of Italy” for everyone who visits.

“We make Neapolitan-style pizzas,” said Ozbey, who learned the business from his uncle. “My uncle went to Naples and learned there how to make authentic pizza in a woodfired oven.”

Ozbey worked alongside him in North Carolina for eight years making this type of pizza before expanding the business to the Birmingham area recently. Capella Pizzeria, which opened in December, boasts two wood-fired ovens imported from Italy.

“We are so grateful to be here,” Ozbey said.

The menu offers nine signature pizzas along with the opportunity to personalize them. It also has three Italian-inspired salads a Roman salad, which Ozbey said is their most popular; a blue salad, which features blue cheese, blueberries and honey roasted pecans; and a caprese salad, made with fresh tomatoes, basil, buffalo mozzarella, olive oil and vinaigrette.

Ozbey said his favorite item on the menu is the Palermo pizza, which is topped with sausage, sweet peppers and caramelized onions.

He said the Monica — a vegetarian and sauce-free pizza — is also delicious, made with mushrooms, fresh spring onions, garlic, mozzarella and truffle oil.

Many of the ingredients for their menu including their tomato sauce, flour, sweet peppers, pepperoni and sausage — come straight from Italy, and all the food made on site is made fresh every day, Ozbey said.

“Everything is fresh,” he said. “The salad

dressings, cannoli and everything is made daily.”

In addition to the cannoli, they have another popular authentic Italian dessert — gelato as well as a few other options. Drink options include Italian wines and international bottled beers.

Inside the restaurant, the kitchen is open so pizza lovers can watch their dough get tossed, dressed and put into the wood-fired ovens. Italian music adds to the vibe, European sports play on the televisions, and European soccer

jerseys are hung around the room.

And like the kitchen, the dining space is also open — there’s plenty of room to move tables around and make long community-style tables if you like.

“It’s great for parties or family dinners,” Ozbey said.

That fits with the restaurant’s fabric Capella Pizzeria is a family-owned business. In addition to learning the ropes from his uncle, Ozbey also works alongside his cousins.

Kadir Ozbey puts a fresh siena pizza into a box during the grand opening at Capella Pizzeria in Inverness Village on Jan. 10 Photo by Erin Nelson.

“We’re so grateful to be a part of this community,” he said. “Business has been great; the people here are so supportive, telling everybody they know.”

Ozbey said he’s enjoyed meeting people in the community and seeing them enjoy his family’s craft.

“I love seeing people’s reaction when they try the pizza and love it,” he said. “That’s my motivation for what I do.”

For more information, follow them on Instagram @capellapizzeria.

Overture Tributary | 55+ Active Adult Living Offering Countless Activity Programs at Overture Tributary

Overture Tributary’s celebrated reputation in Birmingham is owed to more than just its first-rate, premium apartment and cottage style homes.

The active adult community’s lifestyle innovation and wellbeing emphasis are perhaps its most significant differentiators. They encompass detailed measures to keep every resident feeling energetic, engaged, fulfilled, and connected with their neighbors. It’s a community whose idea of creating a satisfactory experience does not end with the home finishes and technological conveniences (though those are essential, as well), but continues to include individual wellness in a wide sense of the concept.

Through detailed planning and professional oversight, led by a full-time Lifestyle Coordinator, residents can depend on routine exercise classes and activities to maintain or

further develop their fitness/ health. The community’s extraordinary fitness center is comprehensively outfitted for both individual training and enjoyable group sessions in the adjoining yoga studio. Organized gatherings might also include chess and billiards contests to keep the strategic wheels spinning.

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Retired Chelsea fire truck donated to museum

In December, the Southern Vintage Fire Apparatus Association took possession of the Chelsea Fire & Rescue Department’s 1985 Pierce Engine 31.

Engine 31 was purchased to replace a military deuce and a half, which was being used for fire suppression at the time. The department board members cosigned a loan to purchase the truck, which was the first new fire engine in Chelsea.

At the time, there were several active volunteers who attended weekly meetings to train on the operation of the truck. Chelsea became the “Town of Chelsea” in the late 1990s and around the year 2000, the first paid firefighters were hired, in addition to the volunteers.

The Town of Chelsea secured funding to purchase a 2000 model Quality fire engine (Current Engine 33) and the paid firefighters responded on the Quality, while the volunteers continued to respond on the 1985 Ford Pierce.

In the mid 2000s, as Chelsea continued to grow, the 1985 Ford Pierce truck became a reserve truck. It remained in service as a reserve until 2020 when it was removed from service completely.

In its 35 years of service to the City of Chelsea, it ran thousands of calls in the city and with neighboring departments for mutual aid. Over the years, the truck was used multiple times as a caisson for the funerals of many of the original volunteers. Its final act of service was to stand by at the cemetery during the funeral of Fire Chief Wayne Shirley, the first paid fire chief of Chelsea, in August of 2020. Chief Shirley was very fond of this truck as he started his career in the fire service as a Chelsea Volunteer and responded to countless calls on this truck during that time.

While many decommissioned fire apparatus are either scrapped or donated to smaller

departments, Engine 31 will be on display at the Southern Vintage Fire Apparatus Association

“It has a legacy of serving our city and those around us, as well as playing an enormous part in getting our fire department where it is today and paying tribute to the ones who came before us,” said Fire Chief Joe Lee. “We wanted something

better than that for the ‘85 Engine 31.”

Lee said the department reached out to the Southern Vintage Fire Apparatus Museum in Birmingham, who said not only did they have room for Engine 31, but they came and picked it up themselves.

“Their level of excitement to have it has

definitely reassured us that it is in good hands there,” Lee said. “So now, instead of being cooped up in a bay collecting dust, it will serve as a piece of history for not only the fire service but also the City of Chelsea and how far we’ve come.”

– Submitted by Chelsea Fire & Rescue Department.

Chelsea’s retired Engine 31, a 1985 Pierce, is now on display at the Southern Vintage Fire Apparatus Association. Photo courtesy of Chelsea Fire & Rescue Department.

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Hoover library welcomes four-legged employee

By JON ANDERSON

The staff at the Hoover Public Library has grown to 98 employees over the years, and soon the library will be adding a different kind of employee — one with four legs.

The newest employee, who already is in training, is a 1-year-old standard poodle named Libby. This summer she will become the library’s new facility dog.

Her job will be to make the library a more welcoming place — to be a soothing and calming presence — for both staff and library patrons, library director Amanda Borden said.

One of the primary tasks will be a program that allows children to read to Libby. Some studies have indicated that young children who read out loud to dogs improved their reading skills. Borden said there’s something about reading to a dog that raises the confidence level of children and helps them read better.

But on a more general level, just having a dog in the library helps make it a more inviting atmosphere, Borden said. Dogs help reduce stress and anxiety for many people, she said.

In addition to being at the library, Libby will be used in library outreach at schools and senior centers and be an ambassador for the library at other events.

Libby comes to the library from a dog breeder in Jasper whose business is called Fitzgerald Standard Poodles. She is being trained by a fairly new nonprofit called FIDOS Facility Dogs, based in Bluff Park.

A facility dog is different from a service dog, said Kelly Schaeffer, FIDOS executive director. A service dog is trained to do specific tasks for someone who is disabled to help mitigate that person’s disability, but a facility dog is trained to console and love anyone and everyone who visits a particular facility, Schaeffer said.

Many schools have facility dogs, but Borden said she is not aware of any public libraries that have them, so she’s proud to bring Libby on board at the Hoover Public Library.

Libby had a meet-and-greet time with library staff in December and already has started six months of training to get her adjusted to the library and familiar with the staff. One librarian, Wendy Geist, will be her primary handler and will take Libby into her home.

Geist has worked at the library for 23 years. She spent the past 17 years as a teen librarian but recently moved into the marketing and program librarian role and said she looks forward to bringing Libby into her life and into the library.

She loves animals, and “who wouldn’t want to live with this dog?” Geist said.

Three other librarians are going through special training to be co-handlers, and a few others, including Borden, are going through training to

work with Libby as well.

Borden’s husband, Allen Borden, is a veterinarian and has agreed to provide medical care for Libby at no charge. The library did give a $12,000 donation to FIDOS to cover the care and training for Libby and library staff, with one-third of the money coming from the Friends of the Hoover Library group, one-third coming from the Hoover Public Library Foundation and the rest coming from fundraisers, Borden said.

The library will continue to have fundraisers to help pay for Libby’s food and grooming, she said.

Schaeffer has been getting Libby accustomed to different areas of the library, including the elevator and stairs and different floor surfaces, as

Libby, the Hoover Public Library's new facility dog, gets some loving at a meetand-greet reception with library staff on Dec. 15. At right is Wendy Geist, a librarian who will become Libby's primary handler.

well as accustomed to being around children and large crowds of people. She also is being trained to identify colors, which children find fun when reading to dogs, and not to approach people unless given permission, Schaeffer said.

“She’s really smart,” Schaeffer said. “She learns really fast.”

Borden said she saw how students at Spain Park High School love the police dog, Ace, who works there, and when Spain Park librarian and Hoover Councilman Casey Middlebrooks introduced the idea of a facility dog to her, she loved it.

“I can’t believe she’s going to be here every day,” Borden said. “My job just got 1,000 times better.”

Photo by Jon Anderson

Highlands College featured in 2022 architectural portfolio

TurnerBatson Architects is proud to announce that Highlands College has been selected for publication in Endeavor Business Media’s American School & University 2022 Architectural Portfolio.

It was featured in the November/December 2022 edition of the magazine and online at schooldesigns.com.

An annual competition honoring education design excellence, the Architectural Portfolio spotlights projects representing today’s most effective learning environments.

Highlands College is a biblical higher education institution that exists to train and empower leaders to fulfill the “Great Commission.” The

college was able to purchase a 62-plus-acre former corporate headquarters in a prime Birmingham suburb. The project included a new glass curtain wall addition and a comprehensive renovation of a three-story facility to create a collaborative and relational place for the students and faculty.

Each floor features an open, light-filled circulation space connecting learning studios, practicum spaces and faculty offices. The design intent for these “living laboratories” was to provide a sustainable, engaging facility that connects the users with their environment and with one another.

This includes large expanses of glass to

“share God’s light” and to provide unobstructed views of the outdoors, and natural materials such as wood and concrete to create a tactile, grounded and organic foundation. The use of strong graphics, vivid colors and patterns in textiles and furniture invigorate areas and reinforce the Highlands College brand, creating a vibrant and welcoming college atmosphere.

A jury of American Institute of Architects Committee on Architecture for Education members and education administrators evaluated submissions from architectural firms, schools and universities across the country. Ninety-four projects were chosen for

publication in AS&U, an educational facilities, purchasing and business administration magazine reaching 57,000 facility planners, school and university administrators and architects with this issue.

This is the competition’s 40th year. As a guide for their evaluations of the designs, the jurors paid special attention to these criteria: welcoming; beauty that inspires joy; seamless integration of indoors and out; promotes collaboration, community and active learning; exhibits innovation throughout; sustainability; budget-conscious; health and safety; and high-quality construction.

– Submitted by TurnerBatson Architects.

The exterior of Highlands college, left, and the interior, right. The facility was featured in the architectural portfolio for Endeavor Business Media’s American School & Universities for 2022. Photo courtesy of Highlands College.

Berry teacher named Hoover’s Secondary Teacher of the Year

By JON ANDERSON

Kevin Pughsley, a sixth grade science teacher at Berry Middle School, was chosen as Hoover’s Secondary Teacher of the Year for the district. He is known for his mastery of content, leadership in instruction and creative and hands-on learning techniques, and is in consideration for Teacher of the Year for the state’s school board district 3.

Pughsley is in his sixth year at Berry Middle and 16th year of teaching overall. He previously taught 10 years as a sixth-grade science teacher at Calera Middle School in the Shelby County school system.

He was named Calera Middle School’s Teacher of the Year in 2008 and 2014, the Shelby County Middle School Teacher of the Year in 2014 and was his school district’s nominee for the Jacksonville State University Teacher Hall of Fame in 2014 and the Alabama Science Teacher Association Middle School Teacher of the Year for 2018.

Pughsley won the Presidential Award for Excellence in Math and Science Teaching in 2018 and was a teacher ambassador for the Alabama Educator Space Camp in 2017. In 2022, he led Berry students to a state championship in Tests in Engineering Aptitude Mathematics and Science, qualifying them to go to nationals in Dallas.

He is the head of the science department at his school, plans professional development for his fellow science teachers and mentors and teaches other teachers through the A Plus College Ready program.

Melissa Hadder, the principal at Berry, when asked how she would describe Pughsley, said it’s hard to narrow it down to one thing because he is the complete package as a teacher.

“Mr. Pughsley is an experienced teacher who works hard to help the students master the content,” Hadder said. “He is a phenomenal teacher and represents Berry very well.”

Pughsley is very skilled in terms of pedagogy, grounded in the content and good at incorporating literacy into the science curriculum, she said. He’s good at relating to middle school students, engaging with them and getting them to ask questions about the content, she said.

Chris Robbins, the chief academic officer for Hoover City Schools, was the principal at Berry when Pughsley was hired and said in a recommendation letter that he knew he had to hire Pughsley the second he began interviewing him.

“His love and concern for children, his ability to relate to adolescents and his thirst for

Kevin Pughsley, a sixth grade Earth science teacher at Berry Middle School, gives instructions on an assignment as the class learns about core samples and geologic columns of the Earth on Jan. 6.

professional growth shined through,” Robbins wrote. “With years of science teaching experience, an unbelievable expanse of expertise and certifications and a heart of gold, the outcome of the interview was a no-brainer.”

Robbins said that when he walked into Pughsley’s classroom, he always noticed that Pughsley’s students were engaged in collaborative discussions with other students in their groups, thinking critically about science standards and working to provide or discover evidence to support or disprove a scientific hypothesis.

Pughsley knows the science standards so well that he looks for and takes advantage of cross-curricular connections with other teachers in his interdisciplinary team, Robbins said. Yet he is continually seeking out opportunities

to grow in his knowledge of the content and standards, Robbins said.

Also, Pughsley possesses many of the personal and social traits necessary to build positive relationships with all his stakeholders, Robbins said.

“Parents, students and co-workers enjoy his consistent and fair approach to working with students,” Robbins wrote. “Kevin has a wonderful sense of humor, which is foundational for working successfully with middle school students.”

Pughsley said he feels blessed and humbled that the teachers at his school chose him to be their Teacher of the Year and that the leaders of the school district see him as a teacher who is making a difference in students’ lives.

“Growing up, I was easily distracted,” he said. “I would get in trouble. Academically, I wasn’t the best either, and I share that with my students. I let them know my pathway that got to here.”

When he was in high school, he had two teachers who showed him that education could be fun, energetic, exciting and engaging for students and that teaching can be tailored to meet the individual needs of learners, he said.

Those teachers made an impact on his life and helped motivate him to choose education as a profession, he said.

Now, he wants to help his students realize that, regardless of any past struggles, they can be successful in school and achieve their dreams, he said.

The last two years of dealing with the COVID-19 pandemic have been very tough for teachers, and he wants to help his fellow teachers realize that they can push through the tough times and find that passion that they originally had, he said.

Photo by Erin Nelson.

Local theater students recognized at Trumbauer Festival

Several theater students at schools along the U.S. 280 corridor were recently recognized at the 82nd Walter Trumbauer Festival, the major event of the Alabama Conference of Theatre, hosted at Troy University in December 2022.

More than 2,300 students from 104 high school theater programs throughout the state participated. There were a total of 1,291 individual theater events, 35 group performances, 14 studio shows and 14 one-act shows.

CHELSEA HIGH SCHOOL PERFORMANCE EVENTS

► Readers Theater, Novice: Claire K., Melora C. — Excellent

► Readers Theater, Varsity: Danni O., Matthew H. — Superior, 3rd place

► Acting 2005-Present, Novice: Jaydah B.

— Superior

► Acting 2005-Present, Varsity: Mady R.

— Excellent

► Musical Pre-1975, Varsity: Mikala B.

— Superior

► Musical Pre-1975, Varsity: Lauren A. — Superior, 2nd Place

► Musical Comedic 1975-2014, Varsity: Catherine B. — Superior

► Musical Comedic 1975-2014, Varsity: Brelyn K. — Superior

► Musical Dramatic 2015-Present, Varsity: Olivia H. — Superior

► Musical Dramatic 2015-Present, Varsity: Lauren A. — Superior

► Musical Jukebox/Pop/Rock, Varsity: Mady R. — Superior

► Duet Musical Comedic, Varsity: Olivia

H., Noah D. — Excellent

CHELSEA HIGH SCHOOL TECHNICAL EVENTS

► Properties Design, Novice: Baylee F.

— Excellent

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► Puppet Design, Varsity: Jackson T.

— Excellent

► Costume Design, Novice: Jackson K. — Superior, 3rd place

► Costume Design, Novice: Delana W.

— Superior

► Costume Design, Varsity: Catherine B.

— Superior, 2nd place

► Makeup Design, Novice: Ashley W.

— Superior

► Makeup Design, Varsity: Melora C. — Superior, 1st place

► Scene Design, Novice: Jenny H.

— Superior

► Lighting Design, Varsity: Riku G.

— Excellent

► Stage Management, Varsity: Kara L.

— Excellent

OAK MOUNTAIN HIGH SCHOOL PERFORMANCE EVENTS

► Solo Dramatic Classical Acting, Novice: Hudson McKinney — 2nd place

► Duet Musical Comedic: Asher Lee, Hudson McKinney — 3rd place

► All Star Cast for Studio Theatre: “Lost to the Light” — Lily Anderson, Asher Lee and Sophia Mitchell

The Walter Trumbauer Festival has provided quality training and performance opportunities for Alabama theater students at the high school level since 1940. Students qualify for the state competition by earning a rating of “superior” at one of seven district festivals.

GROUP EVENTS

► Group Musical: “Stepsisters Lament”

– Submitted by Cindy Harper, The Alabama Conference of Theatre.

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Chelsea High School theater students, left, and Oak Mountain High School theater students, right, both competed in the Trumbauer Festival in December 2022. Photos courtesy of Chelsea and Oak Mountain High School theater departments.

Brooks sworn in for second term as superintendent

By LEAH INGRAM EAGLE

Four years and two days after taking office as the superintendent of Shelby County Schools, Lewis Brooks was sworn in for his second term on Jan. 5. His four year term will go through 2026.

Shelby County Probate Judge Allison Boyd performed the ceremony, as Brooks placed his hand on his grandmother's bible from 1929 with his wife Reisa by his side, as other family members, including his son, mother and brother, looked on.

Board President David Bobo said that the school system is blessed to have Brooks as its leader.

"He means so much to us and is a great leader for our school system and we're excited for another term," Bobo said.

After the ceremony, 280 Living spoke to Brooks, who said he is looking forward to a second term serving the students, parents and communities of Shelby County.

"This is a great team of teachers and leaders that I work with, I'm very honored and blessed to be able to serve again," he said. "I'm looking forward to it and am really energized by the opportunity."

As for plans for his second term, Brooks

said the school system is preparing to launch a new strategic plan. Meetings will be held soon with parents, community members and teachers to obtain their opinions.

"We are really pushing innovation, trying to institute innovative programs, whether they be technology programs or career tech programs," Brooks said.

A new partnership will be launched between Shelby County Schools and the University of Montevallo for dual enrollment courses.

"We're looking at innovative programs throughout the district and looking at how we change learning environments," he said. "We are really focusing on building this culture of organizational commitment, where our community members and our teachers understand that they have a commitment to us and that we as a district have a commitment to them.”

Another outreach opportunity Brooks will continue is his podcast, "One on One with Dr. Brooks," in which he interviews students from schools throughout the county.

Newly elected board members Amber Polk and Brian Boatman took part in their first meeting after their swearing in, which took place in December. Brooks said he is excited to work with them and believes they will do a great job.

Indian Springs opens new community commons

Indian Springs School was joined by representatives from Lake Flato Architects, Architecture Works, BL Harbert International, and Indian Springs Village, as well as former Head of School Gareth Vaughn, to commemorate the completion of the Kayser-Samford Community Commons with a ribbon-cutting and dedication ceremony on Dec. 9.

The Kayser-Samford Community Commons serves as the school’s new social hub and dining hall. It is located on the site of the school’s original dining hall, overlooking the campus lake. The facility provides indoor and outdoor seating for the school’s 325 day and boarding students, faculty, staff, and guests to gather and eat. New serving stations feature a variety of meal options prepared in a stateof-the-art kitchen. The facility also provides a private dining space for meetings and events and a lakeside venue for recreation.

“This is a momentous occasion and an exciting new chapter in the life of the school,”

says Head of School Scott Schamberger. “This facility will give the next generation of our students a place to build enduring relationships and develop lifelong friendships.”

Construction on the 12,000-square-foot building began in November 2021. The project's funding was led by Indian Springs alum benefactor Leo Kayser III ’62, for whom the building is named, alongside Kayser’s late classmate and fellow board member, Frank Samford III ’62. Nearly 150 other donors have contributed to the school’s historic capital campaign.

“The new Kayser-Samford Community Commons is the result of the work and investment of many people from many places and different backgrounds, who share the ideal the Indian Springs should be a community that gathers around tables to enjoy and learn from one another,” says Board Chair Elizabeth Goodrich P ’20, ’23.

– Submitted by Indian Springs School.

The new Kayser-Samford Community Commons at Indian Springs School. Photo courtesy of Indian Springs School.

Lewis Brooks, right, takes the oath of office as the superintendent of Shelby County Schools.

Photo by Leah Ingram Eagle.

Lanzi putting finishing touches on storied career

By KYLE PARMLEY

If you are looking for Paul Lanzi, chances are he is in a gym somewhere, putting up shot after shot.

That work ethic has led Lanzi to great success, and he is now the all-time leading scorer at Chelsea High School.

“He’s a gym rat,” Chelsea head basketball coach Nick Baumbaugh said of him. “He puts up shots before school, late at nights, Saturday afternoon; He’s just in the gym a lot.”

Lanzi, a senior, is the fourth of five brothers to come through the Chelsea basketball program. Stephen, Joseph and Matthew preceded him and Anthony will soon follow as a varsity contributor. Joseph is currently still playing at Auburn University in Montgomery.

In other words, Paul Lanzi has seen quite a few Chelsea basketball games over the years.

“It’s been real fun,” he said. “I’ve been watching since Joseph was a freshman in high school, so I’ve been here a long time and seen how things are run and how Coach [Baumbaugh] coaches and how the team works.”

Lanzi and the other four seniors on the Hornets this year are looking to make a postseason run. They aren’t dissuaded by the fact Chelsea has ascended to the Class 7A level and plays in an area with Spain Park, Hewitt-Trussville and Oak Mountain.

“We’ve got a really good team this year, so I’m really excited about what we can do,” Lanzi said.

Chelsea got off to a 5-5 start this season, hanging tough with some stout competition. An overtime loss to Vestavia Hills was among those defeats. But after an overtime loss to Central-Phenix City in December, the Hornets ripped off eight straight wins and began

playing well.

Baumbaugh loves the way the seniors have gelled together and enjoy playing with one another. MJ Conrad, EJ Hudnall, Dylan Brown and Alex Redd have done a great job leading the team and also assimilating the younger players into the fold.

“These guys are great friends,” he said. “Our juniors and seniors, these guys all love each other.”

Baumbaugh also appreciates the way the players have accepted their roles.

“They know Paul is our best player, and he does a good job of finding them as well,” Baumbaugh said. “They’re rooting for each other, and all want to have success together.”

The Hornets caught the attention of other teams in the area last year when they knocked off Mountain Brook in an area contest.

“It was awesome. Everybody was so hyped after that game,” Lanzi said. “It was a great win. We were playing hard-nosed defense and making the extra passes, diving for loose balls and hitting the big shots.”

If Chelsea can get that type of performance from its team consistently down the stretch, the Hornets may be able to back up those postseason hopes.

Lanzi knows he wants to play basketball in college but had not made his decision as of press time.

“He’s earned it,” Baumbaugh said.

The Hornets will play in the Area 6 tournament in early February, with hopes of advancing to the Northeast Regional for the first time since 2016.

Chelsea’s Paul Lanzi (5) shoots a layup in a game against Pelham at Chelsea High School’s Michael Sims Memorial Gymnasium on Dec. 15.

Photo by Erin Nelson.

Metro South middle school football players of year named

By KYLE PARMLEY

The 2022 Metro South Players of the Year were recently announced, recognizing players across the area for standout seasons. In seventh grade, Hewitt-Trussville Middle School and coach Terry Gillespie defeated Berry in the championship game. In eighth grade, Berry Middle and coach Matt Bowden knocked off Pizitz to win the title.

Here are the players named among the best in the Metro South.

► From Berry: Seventh graders Nicolas McKissic, Wyatt Baty, J.D. Thompson and Anderson Walker; eighth graders CJ Cowley, Evan Taylor, Houston Holmes and Connor Greb.

► From Bragg: Seventh graders Urijah Casey, Mark Moody, Chauncey Goodwin and Cohen Corbell; eighth graders Jude Wright, Michael Shelly, Josh Bailey and Reece Kelly.

► From Bumpus: Seventh graders Aiden Callins, Kamryn Foster, Mario Gibbs and Paxton Weatherly; eighth graders Judson Harris, Darion Moseley, Anquan Allen and Andrew Renfroe.

► From Chelsea: Seventh graders Noah Lee, Travion Spell, Hudson Picklesimer and Riaden Sanchez; eighth graders Briston Hardy, Israel Rodriguez, Jaiden Balint and Christian Madrid.

► From Clay-Chalkville: Seventh graders Christian Bennett Richardson, Markell Stephens, Trey Kennedy and Elijah Menyweather; eighth graders Carson Kimbrough, Josh Ivy, Tavaris Powell and Riley Cornutt.

► From Helena: Seventh graders Maddox Johnson, Brayden Jackson, Judorien Sanders and Barack Djalo; eighth graders Jacoby Studmire, Johnathan Roberto, Cole Davis and Reid Lucas.

► From Hewitt-Trussville: Seventh graders Chris Davis, Tyler Wilson, Antonio Wynn and Braxton Wallace; eighth graders Harrison Malone, Riley O’Neill, Jayden Berry and

Cason Cornwell.

► From Homewood: Seventh graders Timothy Roshell, Quincy McGhee, Reid Goldstein and Marcus McGee; eighth graders Jack Myers, Davis Lee, Bryon Long and Landon Pettus.

► From Liberty Park: Seventh graders Braxton Hunt, Powell Curry, Clayton Cox and Nick Smith; eighth graders Zachary Laws, Charles Taaffe, Luke Stubbs and Jackson Deal.

► From Mountain Brook: Seventh graders

Jack DeMedicis, Ryder McMakin, Gray Anderson and Joshua Holloway; eighth graders Luke Waldrop, Miller Crumpton, Graham Smith and Oliver Browning.

► From Oak Mountain: Seventh graders Cooper Campbell, Clayton Cherry, Eli Ervin and Keenan Wolf; eighth graders Luke Kelly, James McCallister, Baroc Willis and William Yoder.

► From Pizitz: Seventh graders Hudson Mote, Ethan Taylor, Daniel Holmes and Cooper

Cherry; eighth graders Noah Boylan, Jackson Martin, Price LaMaster and Nic Williams.

► From Simmons: Seventh graders Jamal Jones, Jordon Ward, Knox Tyson and Jack Thomason; eighth graders Jovon Pulliam, Joe Johnson, Ashtyn King and Matthew Threatt.

► From Thompson: Seventh graders Boomer Larson, Maleek Billingsley, Dominic Pitts and Mehkii Billingsley; eighth graders Trent McCorvey, Kevin Davis, Cam Pritchett and Ashton Smith.

The seventh grade Metro South players of the year. Photo courtesy of Barry Stephenson.

The AHSAA state softball tournament will remain in Oxford through 2027.

State baseball, softball finals to remain in Oxford, Jacksonville

By KYLE PARMLEY

The Alabama High School Athletic Association announced in early December an agreement to keep the state baseball and softball championships in the same place for at least the next five years.

The AHSAA’s agreement with the city of Oxford and Jacksonville State University will keep the baseball and softball championships in Calhoun County through 2027, with the same setup that was used for the first time in 2022.

Oxford’s Choccolocco Park hosted the state softball tournament for the first time in 2021 and returned in 2022 to complete a two-year contract, after the tournament was held at Montgomery’s Lagoon Park since its inception in 1986.

Moving the softball tournament to Oxford has allowed the state tournament finals in all seven AHSAA classifications to be held at the Signature Field, a stadium designed specifically for softball.

Baseball’s state final series for each of the seven classifications was previously held in

Montgomery, but a scheduling conflict forced the state to relocate those championships last spring.

That led to holding the first game of each classification’s final series at Choccolocco Park, with the second and third games the following day at Jacksonville State University’s Rudy Abbott Field at Jim Case Stadium.

“We are excited to have our state championships in both sports locked in for the next five years and hopefully for many years to come,” said Alvin Briggs, AHSAA executive director.

“Our experience with softball at Choccolocco Park and baseball last spring at Choccolocco Park and JSU was incredible. We had packed crowds for most of our games. Both sites provided real championship experiences and lifelong memories for our teams, schools and communities that traveled to attend.”

Choccolocco Park in Oxford has signature fields for baseball and softball, in addition to a multi-field complex that is utilized for the softball tournament games leading up to each classification’s championship game. The park has hosted many regional and national events throughout the last several years.

Photo by Kyle Parmley.

Varsity Sports Calendar

BASEBALL

BRIARWOOD

Feb. 20: @ John Carroll. 6:30 p.m.

Feb. 23: vs. John Carroll. 6:30 p.m.

Feb. 24: vs. Leeds. 4:30 p.m.

Feb. 28: @ Homewood. 4 p.m.

CHELSEA

Feb. 18: vs. Hartselle. Mountain Brook High School. 2 p.m.

Feb. 21: @ Helena. 6:30 p.m.

Feb. 24: vs. Vestavia Hills. 6:30 p.m.

OAK MOUNTAIN

Feb. 16: Doubleheader @ Brookwood. 4:30 p.m.

Feb. 18: Doubleheader vs. Tuscaloosa County, Athens. Oak Mountain High School. 11 a.m., 4 p.m.

Feb. 21: vs. Pell City. 4:30 p.m.

Feb. 23: vs. Vestavia Hills. 4 p.m.

Feb. 24: Doubleheader vs. Oxford. Oak Mountain High School. 4:30 p.m.

SPAIN PARK

Feb. 17: vs. Helena. 4 p.m.

Feb. 18: Doubleheader vs. Stanhope Elmore, Hueytown. Spain Park High School. 9 a.m., 2 p.m.

Feb. 21: vs. Pelham. 6:30 p.m.

Feb. 23: @ Robertsdale. 7 p.m.

Feb. 24: vs. Spanish Fort. Orange Beach High School. 4:30 p.m.

Feb. 25: Doubleheader vs. Orange Beach, Bayside Academy. Orange Beach High School. 9 a.m.

Feb. 28: @ Tuscaloosa County. 7 p.m.

BASKETBALL

Feb. 2: Chelsea vs. Calera. Girls at 5:30 p.m., boys at 7 p.m.

How My Chamber Investment Works for Me

Shelby County is a great place to live and do business, and The Shelby County Chamber is one of the big reasons why this is true! Our business has experienced consistent growth as we have taken advantage of the numerous business networking opportunities that are available. We also really appreciate the collaborative partnership between the Chamber, the County and all of our municipalities spelled out in ShelbyOne - Next Level Up!their five-year strategic plan. When you also recognize the Chamber’s efforts in business development and support, career readiness and all the ways in which it supports our County, I think you’ll better understand why I believe the future here is so bright! If your organization isn’t a Shelby County Chamber investor yet, we’d strongly recommend it!

Feb. 2: Oak Mountain vs. Chilton County. Girls at 5:30 p.m., boys at 7 p.m.

Feb. 2: Spain Park @ McAdory. Girls at 5:30 p.m., boys at 7 p.m.

Feb. 3: Oak Mountain @ Helena. Girls at 6 p.m., boys at 7:30 p.m.

Feb. 3: Spain Park boys @ Hoover. 7 p.m.

Feb. 4-11: Area tournaments. TBD.

Feb. 15-23: Regional tournaments. TBD.

INDOOR TRACK AND FIELD

Feb. 4: State meet. Birmingham CrossPlex.

SOCCER BRIARWOOD

Feb. 3-4: Boys at Lakeshore Shootout. TBD.

Feb. 7: Girls vs. Thompson. 5 p.m.

Feb. 9-11: Southern Shootout. Foley Sports

Tourism Complex.

Feb. 17: Boys vs. Pinson Valley. 6 p.m.

Feb. 24: vs. Mountain Brook. Girls at 6 p.m., boys at 7:30 p.m.

Feb. 27: Boys vs. Chelsea. 7 p.m.

Feb. 28: Girls @ Homewood. 6 p.m.

CHELSEA

Feb. 11: Boys vs. Springville. 3:30 p.m.

Feb. 14: Girls @ Shades Valley. 5:30 p.m.

Feb. 16: Boys vs. Pelham. 7:30 p.m.

Feb. 21: vs. Gadsden City. Girls at 5:30 p.m., boys at 7:30 p.m.

Feb. 24: Girls vs. Homewood. 6 p.m.

Feb. 27: Girls vs. Northridge. 6 p.m.

Feb. 28: Boys @ Briarwood. 7 p.m.

OAK MOUNTAIN

Feb. 2: Girls vs. Huntsville. 7 p.m.

February 16 - 18, 2023

“Oh Lovely Day”

Feb. 2-4: Boys at Lakeshore Shootout. TBD.

Feb. 6: vs. Tuscaloosa Academy. Girls at 5 p.m., boys at 7 p.m.

Feb. 14: Boys vs. Northridge. 7 p.m.

Feb. 16-18: Girls at Lakeshore Shootout. TBD.

Feb. 18: Boys vs. Northgate. 4 p.m.

Feb. 21: Boys @ Homewood. 7 p.m.

Feb. 24: Boys vs. John Carroll. 7 p.m.

Feb. 28: Girls vs. Cullman. 7 p.m.

SPAIN PARK

Feb. 2: Boys vs. Hoover. Pelham High School. 6:15 p.m.

Feb. 3: Boys vs. Huntsville. Eagle Sports Complex. 8:30 p.m.

Feb. 4: Boys vs. Montgomery Academy. Eagle Sports Complex. 11:30 a.m.

Feb. 6: Girls @ Huntsville. 5:30 p.m.

Feb. 9: Boys at Southern Shootout.

TBD.

Feb. 16: Boys vs. John Carroll. 7 p.m.

Feb. 21: Girls vs. Helena. 5:30 p.m.

Feb. 21: Boys @ Pelham. 7 p.m.

Feb. 24: Girls @ Auburn. 5 p.m.

Feb. 25: Boys vs. Mountain Brook.

Noon.

Feb. 28: Boys vs. Pinson Valley. 6 p.m.

SOFTBALL

BRIARWOOD

Feb. 18: Straughn Round Robin. Straughn High School.

Feb. 21: vs. West Blocton. TBD.

Feb. 23: vs. Jemison. 5:30 p.m.

CHELSEA

Feb. 17-18: Red & Blue Classic. Liberty Park.

BREAST CANCER SURVIVORS

Often feel tired? If so and interested in exercising regularly under the supervision of exercise specialists, you may qualify for UAB’s ROME study.

Feb. 23: vs. Mountain Brook. 5 p.m.

Feb. 28: vs. Helena. 4:30 p.m.

OAK MOUNTAIN

Feb. 16: vs. Hoover. 4:30 p.m.

Feb. 17-18: Thompson Tournament. Veterans Park

Feb. 23: vs. Vestavia Hills. 4:30 p.m.

Feb. 28: vs. Thompson. TBD.

SPAIN PARK

Feb. 17-18: Thompson Tournament. Veterans Park.

Feb. 21: vs. Tuscaloosa County. 4:30 p.m.

Feb. 23: vs. Austin. 5 p.m.

Feb. 24-25: Hillcrest Tournament. Bowers Park.

Feb. 28: vs. Hoover. 4:30 p.m.

CONTINUED from page A1

She took it upon herself to organize a fundraising gala for Epilepsy Foundation Alabama this past November. The gala, Wings of Hope, drew about 200 people and raised more than $32,000.

Sara Franklin, a regional director for the Epilepsy Foundation who lives and works in Hoover, said she has been blown away by Burt and her contributions to the cause over the past two years.

Burt served as an ambassador for the Epilepsy Foundation, helping with events and encouraging family and friends to support seizure training so more people will know how to respond and help people when seizures occur.

She also helped call and email state legislators to gain support for the Seizure Safe Schools Act, which was passed by the Alabama Legislature and signed by Gov. Kay Ivey in the spring of 2021 and went into effect this school year. The act allows non-medical school personnel who are trained to administer nasal anti-seizure medication to do so in emergency situations when a school nurse is not on campus.

Burt has been a tremendous help, Franklin said. “She’s just had so many good ideas about how to raise epilepsy awareness and train people in seizure first aid,” Franklin said.

Also, Franklin was impressed that Burt took her support to the next level by coming up with the idea for a fundraising gala and organizing it herself, with some assistance from her mom. The event sold out and was a great success, Franklin said.

With limited staff, the Epilepsy Foundation Alabama organization didn’t have the bandwidth to do that themselves, Franklin said.

The Wings of Hope Gala was held at the Southern Museum of Flight, enabling Burt to combine her passion for epilepsy awareness with her passion for flying.

From a young age, she always thought flying was something she would like to try, she said. Her grandfather, Bob Wall, is a pilot

and paid for Burt’s first flying lesson as a 16th birthday present.

“I just fell in love from there,” she said.

“It’s really just snowballed into one of my

favorite passions.”

Her friends thought she was crazy for wanting to fly a plane, but she liked the challenge of doing something in a

male-dominated field, she said. She hopes to study aviation at Auburn University and become a commercial airline pilot for Delta, she said.

Burt flies with Over the Mountain Aviation at the Shelby County Airport. She already has completed her first solo flight, first cross-country solo flight and first night flight and is scheduled for her Federal Aviation Administration check ride on Feb. 4 to get her private pilot license, she said.

While Burt is Miss Jefferson County’s Outstanding Teen for 2023, she hasn’t been in a lot of those types of competitions. So far, she has been in only three. She won her very first preliminary and became Miss Leeds Area’s Outstanding Teen in June 2021 and went on to be named second runner-up in the Miss Alabama’s Outstanding Teen competition in March 2022. The Miss Jefferson County’s Outstanding Teen competition last year was her third competition, and her fourth will be the Miss Alabama’s Outstanding Teen competition this coming March.

Burt said she feels honored to represent Jefferson County in this year’s state competition and has been thrilled to have already received $25,000 in scholarships through these competitions.

She won the Jessica Baeder Community Service Award at the state competition last year for her work involving epilepsy awareness.

In addition to flying planes and working to battle epilepsy, Burt has several other hobbies. She has been a member of the track team and cheerleading squad at Briarwood since her freshman year and currently participates on both the varsity sideline football and basketball cheerleading squads and varsity competitive cheer squad.

She also has been dancing since age 2 and currently dances with the Birmingham Dance Theatre in Hoover. When she was younger, she did many types of dancing, including ballet, hip hop, jazz, tap and clogging, but she now focuses on ballet en pointe, which is the talent she performs in the scholarship competitions.

Burt is the daughter of Zane Burt and Eric and Kalika Gibbons.

Miss Jefferson County’s Outstanding Teen Elaina Burt and her 6-year-old cousin, Charlie Wilson. Burt started the nonprofit Charlie’s Chance to raise awareness for epilepsy. Photo courtesy of Elaina Burt.

Once he made it to the hospital, Baker learned that he had four blockages and his “widowmaker” artery was 100% blocked. He had two stents placed and would have two more the following month.

After his surgeries were complete, Baker’s physician, Dr. David Cox, advised him to enter a cardiac rehabilitation program to help with his recovery. Baker continues to do well and is grateful for this second chance at life.

WHAT IS CARDIAC REHAB?

Cardiac rehab is a medically supervised program designed to improve a patient’s cardiovascular health after a heart attack, heart failure, angioplasty or heart surgery. The goal is to accelerate recovery and get them back to daily activities.

According to the American Heart Association, it is considered standard care for a patient’s recovery. However, many patients do not take advantage of the program. A study published in June 2022 showed that only 25% of cardiac patients seek cardiac rehab after a heart event.

Baker not only took part in the 12-week cardiac rehab course at Ascension St. Vincent’s One Nineteen; his nurses described him as a model patient.

“I wanted to get better. That was my goal — to ensure I can live as long as I possibly can,” Baker said.

Cox said cardiac rehab is just as effective as, if not more effective than, any other kind of medication therapy given.

“The importance of cardiac rehab is to get people more active and decrease future events,” Cox said. “Cardiac rehab after a MI [myocardial infarction] should be recommended to everyone. Usually cost is never an issue, and the intervention has no downside, really only an upside.”

Cardiac rehab is set up similar to a gym environment where patients use different apparatuses that are overseen by nurses with cardiac experience. They are Advanced Cardiovascular Life Support trained and equipped to deal with emergencies. The 12-week program usually

consists of three weekly sessions lasting one to two hours each.

“The goal is to do an initial assessment and progressively check vital signs, blood pressure and increase the level of exercise,” Cox said. “Some people may initially wonder why they are there or think it’s not much of a benefit. It’s tailored to [the patient’s] age and pre-existing functional capacity after a heart attack, and it would depend on the level of the heart attack.”

A SPECIAL BOND

Nurse Natalie Bailey and exercise physiologist Mary Katherine Tullo were with Baker

every step of the way during his cardiac rehab at Ascension St. Vincent’s One Nineteen.

Tullo describes Baker as the patient that every nurse wants to have, adding that the entire time he was in rehab, he wanted to know what his goals were and then met them. Once he reached a goal, he would want a new one.

“When we first met Jim, he didn’t understand everything,” Tullo said. “He was very inquisitive and would ask questions, and we would just talk the whole time. We saw him go through this complete lifestyle change and focus on his health. He was determined and wanted to understand why he went through what he did, in order

to change so that it would not happen again.”

Bailey describes Baker as one of the most determined people she has ever seen.

“He always had a positive attitude,” Baker said. “Jim really listened and absorbed everything we gave him and applied it to his everyday life. He set a goal and was going to accomplish it and not let anything get in his way. He’s a dream patient.”

Bailey and Tullo assisted Baker with cardio exercise (treadmill and stationary bike) before he progressed to jogging and strength training. Baker gets emotional when talking about the two. “Their gentleness, kindness and

Nurse Natalie Bailey, left, and exercise physiologist Mary Katherine Tullo hold a ribbon and wait for Jim Baker to arrive at the finish line of his celebratory 5K on the indoor track at Ascension St. Vincent’s One Nineteen. Photos courtesy of Mary Katherine Tullo.

Baker, in yellow, holds a certificate of achievement at the finish line with his support team, from left: Natalie Bailey, his son Jake, his wife Susan and Mary Katherine Tullo.

What are the symptoms of heart attack?

► Chest pain or discomfort. Most heart attacks involve discomfort in the center or left side of the chest that lasts for more than a few minutes or that goes away and comes back. The discomfort can feel like uncomfortable pressure, squeezing, fullness or pain.

► Feeling weak, light-headed or faint. You may also break out into a cold sweat.

► Pain or discomfort in the jaw, neck or back.

► Pain or discomfort in one or both arms or shoulders.

► Shortness of breath. This often comes along with chest discomfort, but shortness of breath also can happen before chest discomfort.

► Unusual or unexplained tiredness and nausea or vomiting. Women are more likely to have these symptoms.

SOURCE: CDC.GOV

and balloons in hand.

heart attack and thanked them for all their help.

compassion were unparalleled,” he said, adding that he would not be where he is today without their care.

“It was a blessing to have Natalie and Mary Katherine,” he said. “They were just incredible and have such a heart for helping others. They made it fun. I’d get up in the morning ready to go. I formed a very special bond with them and refer to them as my angels on earth. Without them, I don’t think I’d be in the spot that I am in today.”

The three still keep in touch. Bailey said in addition to birthdays and holidays, Baker texted her and Tullo on the one-year anniversary of his

A CELEBRATORY RUN

Nine months after his heart attack, Baker had planned to run a 5K. When inclement weather was predicted for his race day, he changed his plans and decided to run it on the indoor track at Ascension St. Vincent’s One Nineteen.

When Bailey found out about the change of plans, she told Tullo they had to be there.

Baker’s wife and son came to cheer him on, but he didn’t know Bailey and Tullo found out about his plans and showed up to surprise and support him on their day off, encouraging signs

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“My

Tullo said it was fun seeing the surprised look on his face.

“It was the best day,” she said. “We were just really proud of him.”

Baker’s son, who was a senior in high school at the time, ran with him.

MOVING FORWARD

Baker said he can never thank Bailey and Tullo enough and he is forever indebted to them. He now has the ability to live confidently and not in fear.

Baker said he lives his life to the fullest and continues to have heart checkups every six months.

At his one-year follow-up visit with Cox, Baker said he received good marks and a healthy report.

“I’m in really good shape now and really healthy and live each day to the fullest,” he said. “No one ever wants a heart attack, and I don’t want a second one, but if God gave me a choice knowing what I’ve been through, I’d take it — as crazy as it sounds. There’s a purpose in everything, and there is a purpose in this.”

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husband and I love all the “new” space Kim created for us in our master bedroom closets. Everything has a place - finally. Kim is very professional and makes the process easy.”

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5 steps to secure your financial data from fraud

Since the start of the pandemic, the banking industry has seen an increase in financial fraud across the country. From check fraud to payment app scams, the issue has been escalating and impacting Americans of all ages and income levels.

Through my 14 years in the financial industry, I’ve heard plenty of stories about how fraudsters work and have learned several proactive steps to help prevent fraud. Whether you are working to protect your business or personal account, these five steps will help secure your money from those who might be seeking to exploit your finances.

CHECK YOUR ACCOUNTS DAILY. One of the simplest ways to keep your finances secure is to check your accounts each day. Some scams start so small you may not notice the impact to your total balance. I recently heard of an individual who fell victim to a payment app scam where the first transaction was under $2. Unfortunately, it was missed and paved the way for larger transactions down the road. Had the individual caught that first fraudulent transaction early and notified their bank, there’s a better chance they could’ve prevented more from being stolen.

SET UP ACCOUNT ALERTS. Most banks have the option to set up alerts on your accounts. Set an alert for transactions that are higher than your normal spend and another to alert you if your account balance drops below a minimum amount so you can act. Having these alerts provides a second level of awareness and can help identify fraud as soon as it happens.

AVOID WRITING CHECKS. Printed checks have key sensitive information on them such as your account name, number, and address that can be easily captured or stolen. The easiest way to prevent this is to avoid using printed checks all together. Most banks offer electronic payment options such as Bill Pay which results in an electronic transfer that can’t be intercepted by fraudsters.

USE CREDIT, NOT DEBIT. Operating on credit, especially online, is one of the easiest ways to protect your finances. When fraud occurs, the most difficult and immediate impact for clients is the inability to access funds they expected to have in their account. Credit cards offer protection by eliminating the risk of your bank account numbers being compromised and your cash being taken.

DEVELOP YOUR RELATIONSHIP WITH YOUR BANKER. Think of your banker like your primary care physician - you want to keep them updated as your life and needs change. If you are as transparent as possible with your banker about your financial situation, lifestyle and plans, they’ll be able to provide tools tailored to you that serve as a line of defense against fraud.

The frequency of fraud continues to escalate, so take the time to be vigilant and take proactive measures to protect yourself. To learn more about how you can secure your finances and plan for future financial success, contact Valley Bank’s Alabaster team at 205-378-5700.

©2023 Valley National Bank. Member FDIC. Equal Opportunity Lender. Equal Housing Lender. All Rights Reserved.

Amanda Parmley is Vice President, Retail Market Manager at Valley Bank, based out of the Alabaster branch at The Colonnade Shopping Center. She has been in the banking industry for 14 years and enjoys helping people and businesses progress in their financial journeys.

Sheriff’s office makes promotions, receives accreditation

By LEAH INGRAM EAGLE

Shelby County Sheriff John Samaniego recently announced the promotion of Maj. Clay Hammac to the rank of chief deputy.

Hammac’s promotion was effective Jan. 6, and he is now ranked second in the department behind the sheriff. He is currently responsible for the operational command and oversight of criminal investigations, drug enforcement, uniform patrol, tactical response, media relations and oversight of budget, personnel and risk management.

“Clay has almost 20 years with us and has checked every box there is to check in the succession plan,” Samaniego said.

Hammac has served in numerous roles during his nearly 19 years with the Shelby County Sheriff’s Office, including the commander of Shelby County’s multi-jurisdictional Drug Enforcement Task Force and executive director of Shelby County Compact.

Prior to working in narcotics investigations, he was assigned to the criminal investigations division and as a member of the U.S. Secret Service Electronic Crimes Task Force, where he specialized in white collar, electronic, financial, organized and violent crime investigations.

Hammac has also been recognized by the International Association of Chiefs of Police as one of the Top 40 law enforcement executives worldwide, from a candidate pool of more than 36,000 law enforcement leaders. Other accolades include being awarded "Law Enforcement Officer of the Year" for Alabama by the Fraternal Order of Police and the Public Safety Award by the Shelby County Chamber of Commerce. Hammac is a recipient of a lifesaving award, two meritorious service awards

and the Sheriff’s Award.

A graduate of the FBI’s National Academy and the DEA’s Drug Unit Commander Academy, Hammac has been a part of the FBI LEEDA Trilogy in executive leadership, the DEA’s HIDTA Drug Commander’s Course and Leadership Shelby County.

MCGEE PROMOTED TO CAPTAIN

Sheriff’s Lt. Joseph McGee was promoted to the rank of captain in December 2022. He now serves as commander of the Shelby County Drug Enforcement Task Force and is the executive director of Shelby County Compact.

McGee began his law enforcement career as a reserve deputy with the Shelby County Sheriff’s Office in 1994. As a deputy sheriff, he served as a patrol deputy, criminal investigator, departmental instructor, honor guard member and member of the tactical response unit.

In 2004, McGee was promoted to sergeant. As a sergeant, he served as a patrol supervisor, agency training coordinator, tactical response unit team leader and supervisor at the Shelby County Drug Enforcement Task Force.

In 2012, McGee was promoted to lieutenant and assigned as a patrol watch commander. He was later appointed as the assistant division

commander of the patrol division.

The Shelby County Sheriff's Office received Level 1 Accreditation status in 2022, for the fifth year in a row. This is the highest status offered from the National Institute for Jail Operations. The Shelby County Jail was also the first jail in Alabama to receive a NIJO Level 1 accreditation.

This accreditation is an established process for correctional facilities to show compliance with what courts have determined is constitutional when operating a jail. This process is based on guidelines rooted in case law, various state statutes and appellate court rulings.

Intensive outpatient counseling is available. IOP Services, LLC is the only independent program of its kind in our state.

IOP provides nine hours of treatment each week. If the emotional distress worsens and weekly therapy is not enough - we are available.

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Chief Deputy Clay Hammac, left, and Lt. Joseph McGee, right, recently received promotions in the Shelby County Sheriff’s Office. Photos courtesy of Shelby County Sheriff’s Office.

Dr.

He’s

Dr.

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The Alabama Department of Transportation(ALDOT) announces the opportunity to obtain information on:

Project Numbers: NH-0038(547)

Resurfacing and Access Management on SR-38(US-280) from Narrows Parkway to Old US-280

Thursday, February 9, 2023 4:00 PM to 6:00 PM

This will be an Open-House meeting without a formal presentation. Project information, including maps and comment forms, will be available for review. Representatives from the Alabama Department of Transportation will be available to answer questions.

Online Presentation: www.ALDOTinvolved.com

FOR ADDITIONAL INFORMATION OR FOR INDIVIDUALS REQUIRING SPECIAL ASSISTANCE, PLEASE CONTACT:

Mr. DeJarvis Leonard, P.E. East Central Region Engineer 1020 Bankhead Highway - West Birmingham, Alabama 35204

Attn: Mrs. Sandra F. P. Bonner

2023 SPRING

Wisdom teeth removal? Dental implants? Oral surgeons can help CLARK HOLMES SMITH ORAL FACIAL SURGERY

When searching for wisdom teeth removal or dental implants, many people flock to their dentists. Look no further than an oral and maxillofacial surgeon! They are certified experts in face, mouth and jaw surgery, and receive extensive training including dental school and surgical residencies in hospitals. In fact, many dentists refer patients to an oral surgeon for such procedures.

The dedicated professionals at Clark Holmes Smith Oral Facial Surgery are ready to help. Mark Clark, DMD, MD, Jon Holmes, DMD, MD and Blake Smith, DMD, MD offer a wide variety of services, such as dental implants, tooth extractions (including wisdom teeth), facial cosmetic surgery, corrective jaw surgery and reconstructive surgeries including facial injury and trauma surgery and cleft lip/palate and craniofacial surgery.

Dr. Clark, Dr. Holmes and Dr. Smith are all board-certified and can also perform frenectomies and bone grafting procedures, treat TMJ and facial pain and obstructive sleep apnea and offer oral, head and neck pathology as well as orthognathic surgery.

The staff members are highly skilled in anesthesia and are CPR-certified to provide patients with the best possible care in a safe, friendly and welcoming setting. With five convenient locations in Birmingham, Trussville, Gardendale and Alexander City, the experts at Clark Holmes Smith Oral Facial Surgery serve and help patients all over the Birmingham metropolitan area.

journey to mend his The

Meet Jaquavion ‘Qua’ Johnson

CHILDREN’S OF ALABAMA

Jaquavion “Qua” Johnson was born in September 2006. As a doctor was checking on the infants in the local hospital nursery, his attention quickly turned to Qua as he was turning blue. He was stabilized then airlifted to Children’s of Alabama. Doctors there determined he had a congenital heart defect called tricuspid atresia, a surprise to mom Marquitta Rivers.

“No one had a clue he was sick at birth,” Marquitta said.

At five days old, Qua had the first of a series of open-heart surgeries that are customary for his diagnosis. Tricuspid atresia happens when the heart’s tricuspid valve does not develop, therefore blood can’t flow from the heart’s right atrium (upper receiving chamber) to the right ventricle (lower pumping chamber) as it should. Marquitta recalls her “tough cookie” of a son riding around the hospital at age 2-1/2 in a Little Tikes Cozy Coupe, recovering quickly after his last surgery.

He played a variety of sports throughout childhood, but when Qua reached middle school, mom Marquitta noticed her son just wasn’t himself. “He is my child, and I knew something was wrong.”

In early March 2021, a series of visits to his hometown pediatrician, emergency departments and cardiologists provided some clues. Marquitta came home one afternoon to find him crying. “Mom, I can hardly breathe,” he said. She booked an appointment with his pediatrician for the following day, but by that evening, Qua’s symptoms worsened, and Marquitta took him to an emergency department in Columbus, Georgia, a 45-minute ride from home. They did a CT scan, an X-ray and EKG. He needed oxygen. “That’s when I knew something was wrong.”

The pediatrician urged Qua and Marquitta to return to Columbus where many of the previous tests were repeated. Still without answers, they drove back home, when that evening, Marquitta noticed a missed call on her cell phone. It was from a cardiologist at the Columbus hospital. In his voicemail, he explained that Qua’s case caught his eye. As Marquitta listened to the message, Qua was lethargic on the sofa. The doctor advised them to go back to the hospital so that Qua could have an echocardiogram.

By the next morning, Qua’s bloodwork

► WHERE: 1600 7th Ave. S., Birmingham, AL 35233

► CALL: 205-638-9100

► WEB: childrensal.org

and tests indicated that he needed more than just tests. “The doctors said they didn’t understand how Qua was up and walking around. Something wasn’t right with his heart,” Marquitta said. The doctors requested that Qua be transported to Children’s of Alabama for evaluation and treatment. She went back home long enough to gather up essentials for what she thought would be a few days in Birmingham and began the three-hour drive as Qua was flown to Children’s.

His heart wasn’t pumping well. The medications weren’t helping. All that was left was a heart transplant. “He was worried and scared about the idea of a heart transplant,” Marquitta said. “I needed him to know exactly what was going on. I didn’t sugarcoat it, didn’t want him to be worried. He had a big smile on his face once he realized a new heart would give him a better life.”

He joined the transplant list April 3, 2021. While many patients wait months or even years for a new heart, Qua’s critical condition helped the team at Children’s of Alabama find a heart for him less than two weeks later. Before Marquitta told Qua, she went to the gift shop and bought some heart-shaped balloons. When she got back to Qua’s room, he had his back to the door. When he turned around, she said to him, “Qua, are you ready for your life to start? You’re getting your new heart today.”

Marquitta got updates from the transplant team over the next eight hours. By the time she saw him in recovery, he was connected to multiple IVs and machines. “He looked at me as if to ask if all was OK. He grabbed my hand and nodded his head to tell me he was OK. Then he did the same with his dad. And then he went back to sleep,” Marquitta recalled. And just one month later, Qua was discharged ready to take on life with his new, healthy heart.

“I don’t know what the good Lord has in store for him, but I know it’s something,” Marquitta said.

Qua was born with tricuspid atresia that required a series of open heart surgeries as an infant. But as a teen, his health took a dramatic turn. Qua’s pediatrician and cardiologist recognized something wasn’t right with his heart and sent him to Children’s of Alabama. Our team was standing by when he arrived by helicopter, and within two weeks he received a new heart. He rebounded quickly and was back at home a few weeks later, thanks to the expert heart team here at Children’s of Alabama.

Learn more at ChildrensAL.org/heart

TherapySouth providing ‘Hands On Care, Close to Home — and Work!’

THERAPYSOUTH

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A: Most often, patients are referred to one of our clinics by their orthopedic surgeon or primary care physician to assist with recovery from an injury or procedure. But, physical therapy is beneficial to anyone seeking pain relief and improved function. The physical therapy approach is to evaluate the neuromuscular and musculoskeletal systems and address movement limitations or malalignments that are affecting mobility and causing pain. When patients come to physical therapy first, they can often avoid unnecessary surgery and medication. Through intentional exercises and hands-on treatment, patients can get back to their hobbies, everyday tasks and more.

Q: Do I need a doctor’s referral to schedule an appointment at TherapySouth?

A: Patients are welcome to schedule an initial evaluation appointment without a physician’s referral. Your therapist will perform an initial evaluation to determine if therapy is appropriate for you and communicate with your primary care physician, or physician specialist, to obtain approval for ongoing treatment. You can also receive wellness services depending on the nature of your problem. To schedule an appointment, patients can call the clinic directly or visit our website to check appointment availability and set up an initial visit.

Q: What makes TherapySouth stand out in the physical therapy industry?

A: TherapySouth is a private, physical therapist-owned practice that has been serving the greater Birmingham communities for over 15 years. Our numerous convenient locations across the metro area allows us to live out our message of providing “Hands On Care, Close to Home — and Work!” Our staff develop relationships with each patient and truly make the clinic environment feel like a family. With access to quality physical therapy care, we believe we can help our community live better, healthier lives!

Q: What would you like potential patients to know about your practice?

A: We take our core values very seriously. We are a company based on faith that believes in family, integrity, service, compassion, fitness, perseverance, and giving. We try to instill these values in all our employees and encourage them to live them out not only at work as professionals, but also in their personal lives.

Q: What does a first visit look like at TherapySouth?

A: During the initial evaluation, your therapist will take a thorough history of your condition or injury and review past medical history that may influence your case. Appropriate baseline objective measures will be recorded to evaluate throughout your treatment, such as range of motion and strength. Together, you and your therapist will discuss and set goals to help you achieve maximum function. Your therapist will determine a treatment plan and prescribe a home exercise program for you to perform at home to compliment therapeutic activities performed in the clinic. In addition, skilled manual techniques are utilized to further enhance recovery. Your therapist will communicate and coordinate with other health care professionals as needed to provide optimal care.

Q: Your team offers traditional orthopedic services and wellness services. Can you explain the difference?

A: We are passionate about helping patients go beyond recovery and become stronger and more active in their everyday lives. In addition to traditional treatment for orthopedic injury, we often work with

Greystone

► WHERE: 2823 Greystone Commercial Blvd., Birmingham

► CALL: 205-408-1713

► WEB: therapysouth.com

Chelsea

► WHERE: 100 Chelsea Corners Way, Suite 100, Chelsea

► CALL: 205-678-7272

► WEB: therapysouth.com

Patchwork Farms

► WHERE: 3056 Healthy Way, Suite 116, Vestavia Hills

► CALL: 205-783-5270

► WEB: therapysouth.com

competitive athletes, weekend warriors, or anyone looking to improve their performance. Wellness services include dry needling, KT tape application, stretching, soft-tissue mobilization, and more. Wellness services can be purchased as time block packages to maximize the success of treatment.

Q: How has TherapySouth grown and changed over the years?

A: Our founder and CEO, Steve Foster, PT, started TherapySouth in 2006 with a vision for the practice to be therapist-owned and provide quality handson care, close to patient’s home and work. While the practice has grown to almost 40 clinics across Alabama, Georgia and Mississippi — our commitment to core values and clinical excellence remains the same. In addition, all clinics are owned and operated by physical therapists – ensuring the highest quality of care for our patients. This growth has led to more opportunities for continued education, specialization in needed services and improving the wellness in our communities. We are excited to continue growing our team and to be able to provide resources and training for our staff to make positive impacts in the lives of their patients.

You don’t have to face your new fitness resolutions alone. At TherapySouth you’ll find a movement expert who will work with you to develop an individualized exercise program to help you feel stronger and reduce pain. With an Annual Movement Screening, your PT can assess your mobility and strength to help you face everything this new year will bring.

Scan this code to schedule an appointment and start a Healthy New Year.

Family medicine doctor offers his patients a ‘medical home’ at Grandview

GRANDVIEW MEDICAL GROUP PRIMARY CARE

At Grandview Primary Care in Cahaba Heights, Dr. Neil Tindell recently joined his first family medicine practice and believes all patients deserve to have a “medical home.”

That accessibility is “the core of family medicine,” he says.

“It’s my responsibility as their primary care physician to coordinate all their medical care,” Dr. Tindell says. “I’m passionate about advocating for my patients and believe my role is like being the quarterback of their care team.”

Dr. Tindell grew up in Prattville, completed his undergraduate degree in biological sciences at The University of Alabama in 2012 and earned his medical degree from Alabama College of Osteopathic Medicine in 2018.

He completed the Tuscaloosa Family Medicine Residency at The University of Alabama in 2022. His specialties include pediatrics, adult medicine, geriatrics and acute care.

Being a doctor fulfills a long-held ambition. He was in middle school when he found his career path, Dr. Tindell says.

“We used to visit my aunt, who was a recovery room nurse, and I was drawn to medicine from then on,” he says. “I love the combination

of being able to work with people, the challenge of diagnosing and treating patients, and being able to help them feel better and be healthier.”

► WHERE: 4317 Dolly Ridge Road, Suite 201

► CALL: 205-967-9248

He ended up working in family medicine “through a non-traditional path,” he says.

“After completing a preliminary general surgery residency, I felt God was leading me to a career in family medicine,” Dr. Tindell says. “I was drawn to the ability I would have to care for a wide variety of patients at all stages of their lives.

“Every day has been rewarding and gratifying,” he says. “I get to meet a lot of amazing people and share a small part of their lives.”

Dr. Tindell seeks to provide what he calls “full-circle primary care.”

“I strive to address as many aspects of a person’s health care as I possibly can within my clinic," he says. “This is important as it is convenient and cost-effective for the patient.”

Checkups and preventive medicine are very important, he says.

“Well-visits can seem like an unnecessary use of a doctor’s visit, but I feel if patients will come and see their primary care doctor on a regular basis, we can work to prevent

► WEB: grandviewmedical group.com There’s never been a better time to choose good health.

health issues before they become a reality,” Dr. Tindell says. “Doing simple things such as eating healthy, exercising regularly and getting restful sleep are great first steps to living longer, healthier lives.”

Dr. Tindell is glad he joined the Grandview Medical Group network. “They’ve been so supportive of my new practice, ensuring we have all we could ask for to take care of our patients,” he says.

He also offers some spring health tips.

“Spring brings great weather, and a great opportunity to get out and exercise,” Dr. Tindell says. “I would challenge people reading this to get out there and exercise. Set goals and work to stay consistent. You may not see results immediately, but when you do, you'll be surprised.”

Dr. Tindell is accepting new patients. Appointments can be made by phone or at the Grandview website.

IT’S TIME TO THRIVE

At Grandview Medical Group, we can help you live well. Our providers take the time to identify your health risks and can help you prioritize good health. Regular checkups and age-appropriate screenings are important to be healthy now – and to stay well in the future.

And because it is about your time – we offer online scheduling and same-day appointments to make it easier than ever to get an appointment. You can even see us from the comfort of home via telehealth.

Make a choice to thrive. It’s time now. Find an appointment at PrimaryCareGrandviewHealth.com or call 205-941-6221

Medicare doesn’t have to be stressful — let Medicare Advisors of Alabama help

MEDICARE ADVISORS OF ALABAMA

Q: Who is Medicare Advisors of Alabama?

A: We are a locally owned insurance agency that specializes in helping Alabamians better understand Medicare.

Medicare is overwhelming, but once someone with patience and knowledge teaches you the questions to ask and then guides you through the process, the whole thing becomes much less stressful. That’s what we provide: a stressfree Medicare experience.

Q: What does your service cost?

A: Our service is absolutely free. We’re only paid by insurance companies if we help you enroll in a plan. Our reputation has been built on word of mouth and living the Golden Rule. Let us prove it to you.

Q: Why does someone need a broker/adviser?

A: There are so many advertisements and plans available that it’s becoming almost impossible to sort everything out on your own. A good broker will help you see the positives and negatives of the plans and will work to find the best solution for their client and not the insurance company.

► WHERE: 2116 Columbiana Road, Birmingham

► CALL: 205-704-9020

► WEB: medicareadvisors ofalabama.org

Q: When does someone need to help me with Medicare?

A: If you’re turning 65 years of age, you have a seven-month window to enroll in Medicare. It’s also when our team can really help you understand your options. However, if you are still working, you may not want or need to enroll. Deciding when to enroll and what to enroll in are our two most asked questions, and our team can help you make an informed decision.

Q: What if I keep working past age 65?

A: Many people think they’ll face penalties if they don’t sign up for Medicare at 65. That can be true, but not always. You can postpone enrollment beyond age 65 if you or your spouse are still working and you have health insurance under an employer plan.

Q: The Annual Enrollment Period ended Dec. 7. Is it too late to make changes?

A: There are several different enrollment periods throughout the year. One overlooked enrollment period (Open Enrollment Period) runs from Jan. 1 through March 31. This period is for a person who needs to change their Medicare Advantage Plan or someone on a Medicare Advantage Plan but would like to return to Original Medicare. There are also many Special Enrollment Periods (SEP) throughout the year as well.

Q: Where can I get help with Medicare?

A: You can schedule a consultation with someone on our team. We can talk over the phone, meet virtually via Zoom, in-person at our local office, at your home, your business or even out at a coffee shop.

Once a month we teach a class called “Prepare for Medicare” at our local office. We have lots of fun, and it’s very educational. No specific products are discussed, but it’s a great way to learn the basics of Medicare and get your questions answered.

Eric Smith

‘Always listen to your body’

PRECISION SPORTS MEDICINE & ORTHOPEDICS

Q: You have been in medicine for over 40 years. Is there one thing that has remained consistent when it comes to quality patient care?

A: The goal remains the proper care of the patients. That includes timely triage, listening to the patients, using anxillary studies like Xray, CTs, MRIs and arriving at a proper diagnosis and then explaining options for treatment based on age and lifestyle requirements. Then, you go over the risks, benefits, possible complications from the agreed upon surgical or non-surgical solutions. Finally, you work with the patient on the proper recovery options that may include some type of physical rehabilitation and therapy.

Q: What led you to be a hand surgeon?

A: My granddad and my dad were orthopedics so I knew I wanted to be one myself. I made good grades in school and became interested in high school.

Q: What “off the field” injuries do you see?

A: Other than injuries where you fall or have some type of traumatic event, there are degenerative conditions like trigger finger and carpal tunnel, tennis elbow and similar overuse problems. Just because someone doesn’t play a sport doesn’t mean the everyday

► WHERE: 200 U.S. 31, Suite 125, Vestavia Hills

► CALL: 205-822-4357

► WEB: precisionsports ortho.com

person doesn’t have “sports-like” injuries.

Q: Do you work with specific teams on specific injuries?

A: I have been a hand consultant through the years for different area professional teams, college teams and high school teams in the state. More recently, I have been the hand consultant for UAB sports programs and their affiliated high school and college relationships.

Q: What are the symptoms and sensations patients need to watch out for that determine problems with your hands?

A: Always listen to your body. When it doesn’t feel okay, it’s not okay. If you feel pain in the elbow playing tennis or cramps in the hand using clippers in the yard, your instinct is to stop immediately or decrease that activity over time. Often, that’s not enough. That’s when you should start to consider speaking to a provider who can give you a proper examination and determine a proper plan of action for recovery.

Take a stand against vein disease.

Your Leg Pain Can’t Wait

How do you know if you are su ering from vein disease? Answer these questions:

„ Do you have ankle and/or leg swelling?

„ Do you have a dull ache or heaviness in the legs after standing or sitting for long periods of time?

„ Do you have tired legs?

„ Do you have enlarged veins close to the surface of your skin?

„ Do you have changes in skin color including brown, red or pink areas?

„ Do your legs feel leathery or itchy?

Under the direction of Dr. Tom Eagan and Deborah Riemer, PAC, RPhS, our team is committed to treating your leg pain, diagnosing your condition and working with you on a solution for recovery. Call for your evaluation today.

Tom Eagan, MD

Deborah Riemer, PAC, RPhS 3980 Colonnade Pkwy. Birmingham, AL 35243 205-541-6074

Dr. Joseph Sherrill

Using the latest technology to help improve patients’ lives

ALABAMA VISION CENTER

Alabama Vision Center, with locations in Mountain Brook and Hoover, offers world-class eye care with the most advanced technologies, delivered by a committed, caring group of expert doctors and staff.

The latest expert to join the team is Dr. Jessica Duddleston, an ophthalmologist, who began working at AVC in August 2022.

Dr. Duddleston’s specialities include cataract surgery; laser eye procedures, including Lasik; medical and surgical glaucoma; and Botox treatments.

She’s very happy to be a part of AVC.

“The culture is centered around excellent patient care which, to me, is the most important,” Dr. Duddleston says. “I believe it is obvious to our patients as well. Their visit is made more enjoyable as they get to experience how well our staff gets along with each other and how much they truly care.”

A Mississippi native, Dr. Duddleston earned her medical degree from The University of Mississippi Medical Center and completed her ophthalmology residency at The University of North Carolina.

She says that many technological advancements have occurred in ophthalmology in the last decade, and she strives to stay informed.

“It’s extremely important to continue researching and incorporating advancing technology into my skill set in order to offer patients a tailored treatment plan that fits their lifestyle,” she says.

Examples include the introduction of microinvasive glaucoma surgery and

Creating healthier lives with plasma-based therapies

SOUTHERN BLOOD SERVICES

Q: What do you do at Southern Blood Services?

A: Southern Blood Services is a specialty plasma center that collects high quality, antibody-enriched plasma that is processed into life-saving, plasma-based therapies. We are a small specialty center and offer one-on-one service.

Q: How does the Mothers Needed Program help save babies’ lives?

► BIRMINGHAM: 3928 Montclair Road, Suite 100

► HOOVER: 7191 Cahaba Valley Road, Suite 203

► CALL: 888-841-3937

► WEB: alabamavision center.com

numerous dramatic improvements in Lasik technology

“The most rewarding part of my job is being able to improve someone’s vision through cataract surgery or LASIK and, therefore, improve their quality of life,” she says.

For details, call 888-841-3937 or go to alabamavisioncenter.com.

A: One of our favorite programs is the Mothers Needed Program or Rh Incompatibility Program. When a mother has a negative blood type and her baby has a positive blood type, there is a risk that the mother’s antibodies will attack the baby’s blood. This can cause the baby to become sick and even die. However, pregnant women with a negative blood type can safeguard the lives of their babies whose blood types are incompatible by receiving a medication called Rho D immune globulin, that is produced from plasma provided by our donors.

Q: How does that work? Do you need plasma donors to help with that?

A: Southern Blood cannot run without the caring individuals who are willing to donate their plasma. There is also a possible financial compensa-

► WHERE: 3800 Colonnade Parkway, Suite 200

► CALL: 205-967-8189

► WEB: southernbloodservices. com

tion for donors of up to $700-plus per month, and the comfort of knowing they are helping others.

Q: What other programs do you offer?

A: We also have a Rabies Antibody Program and a more general Red Cell Antibody Program that can help people who have been exposed to viruses by boosting their immune system with those antibodies. If you have had the immunizations for these viruses or have another antibody of some kind, your donations could help someone have immunity against a virus to which he or she has been exposed.

Dr. Rekha Chadalawada: ‘I have the best job in the world’

SUMMIT PEDIATRICS

Helping you feel your best and reach your full potential

ELEMENT WELLNESS

For the past 25 years Dr. Rekha Chadalawada has been serving the pediatric community in Sylacauga. She serves as President of the Sylacauga School Board and was recently awarded the Master Pediatrician Award from the American Academy of Pediatrics’s Alabama Chapter and Children’s Hospital.

In 1999, Dr. Rekha joined Dr. Robert Gray of Sylacauga Pediatrics. Desiring to expand Alabama residents’ access to pediatric primary care, Dr. Rekha opened Summit Pediatrics of Chelsea in 2013 and has now opened a new location on Valleydale Road.

Sylacauga and Summit Pediatrics is composed of four pediatricians and four nurse practitioners who are passionate about and dedicated to the health of our pediatric community.

“What led me into this specialty is still what inspires me the most today, and that is the children I get to work with on a daily basis,” Dr. Rekha says. “To me, children are second only to God. They make me a better physician and a better person with their presence every day. I feel like I have the best job in the world — which most of the time doesn’t even feel like a job at all.”

Sylacauga Pediatrics and both Summit locations see children from birth to

► BIRMINGHAM: 1200 Providence Park, Suite 100 (off Valleydale Road)

► CHELSEA: 134 Foothills Parkway

► SYLACAUGA: 115 West Clay St.

► CALL: 205-637-0044

► WEB: sylacaugapediatrics.com

21-years-old for sick and well visits. Locations accept same-day appointments and the new Valleydale location is accepting walk-ins.

Summit Pediatrics’s new location on Valleydale Road is conveniently located across from Jefferson State Community College and Spain Park High School with easy access from both U.S. 280 and Interstate 65. The new clinic aims to serve residents of both Shelby and Jefferson County and is open Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Element Wellness delivers a system of body balance, energy and proactive healing to allow you to feel your best, reach your full potential, and do more of what you love.

We do this through use of natural therapeutic modalities and healing techniques:

► IV Vitamin Therapy: Lack of energy, frequent illnesses, not looking your best? Our IVs are designed to help increase energy, enhance immune response, and reduce the signs of aging. A simple IV blended by our Nurse Practitioner, specifically for you, can help maximize your health and wellness.

► Cryotherapy: Whole Body Cryotherapy is often used to treat pain and arthritis, inflammatory disorders, and injuries. During a 1-3 minute session, extreme cool is used to help blood rush to vital organs, then results in increased blood supply to enhance recovery, healing, and promote wellness.

► Infrared Sauna: Full spectrum infrared saunas use infrared light (not steam) to help with: cellular health, wound healing, skin rejuvenation, pain relief, improved circulation, weight loss,

► WHERE: 6600 Tattersall Lane

► CALL: 205-326-7333

► WEB: elementwellness.me

detoxification, relaxation, and blood pressure.

► Red Light Therapy: Red light therapy uses low-level wavelengths of red light to treat skin issues, wrinkles, scars, and persistent wounds, and may help with circulation, cell production, anti-aging, and more.

► Weight Loss: Semaglutide/B12 injections are orchestrated by a nurse practitioner. Studies show many patients lose more than 10% of their body weight in as quick as six weeks.

We are so excited to be your new neighbor! We are a Pediatric Primary Care Practice with over 20 years of experience and are an extension of our Chelsea & Sylacauga locations. We are dedicated to providing compassionate and comprehensive care to children from birth to 21 years old. Walk-ins and same day appointments for both sick and well visits are accepted.

Offering world-class eye care for everyone in the family UAB CALLAHAN EYE

When you look ahead to the future, you try to prepare for the moments you don’t see coming. But how can you do that without the best possible eye care? Whether you need a routine eye exam, glaucoma screening, ongoing care for a serious eye condition or even surgery, you can access premium care, knowledge and skill to help repair and restore your vision at UAB Callahan Eye in the blink of an eye.

UAB Callahan Eye is committed to delivering eye care everyone can access. With 20 locations across central Alabama and counting — including new locations in Tuscaloosa and Homewood — getting first-rate treatment is easier than ever.

UAB Callahan Eye takes pride in caring for people of all ages, with all locations specializing in diagnosing and treating our youngest family members, starting at birth.

Whatever your needs are, you’ll find the care you need at one of UAB Callahan Eye’s locations, including the only 24/7 eye emergency department of its kind in the country. What does that mean for you? Personalized care, excellent eye care professionals, shorter wait times and clearer vision.

Making an appointment is easy, just call or text 844-UAB-EYES to request an appointment today. Same-day appointments and walk-ins

► WHERE: 1720 University Blvd.

► CALL: 844-UAB-EYES

► WEB: uabcallahaneye.org

are also welcome.

Patients never have to leave UAB Callahan Eye’s care — or Alabama — for the treatment they need to see the future more clearly.

My finger hovered over the send button, and I hesitated as all the doubts about this email flooded my brain. I pressed send before I could change my mind. “What’s the worst she could say?” I figured.

I’m a writer, but I haven’t always been one. I’ve always had a lot to say, out loud and in my own head, but I’m a nurse anesthetist by trade and my career is in healthcare, not writing.

But eight years ago, when my first son was born, I had so many emotions, questions, and inner dialogue that I just had to get out. It was as if the words were just bubbling up in me, searching for an outlet. I was able to more clearly express myself, after the exhausting nights, when I would put pen to paper, if even for just a few sentences.

I didn’t know it then, but that was when writing began for me.

For years, I shared a few essays and blog posts with friends, but never had the courage or time to do much more with it. Because, well, life. I had another baby and was busy with two boys, and a fulltime job. Writing gives me joy, but my joy comes second to my children’s most of the time.

It’s easy to let our passions get put on the back burner. We are mothers, and caretakers, and we are the center of our homes. We give out our best to everyone, and keep what little is left over for ourselves.

Holy Moly Motherhood By Alana Smith Just press send

A year ago, as I was reading the stack of farm and train books to my almost two-year-old, that he had proudly picked out for bedtime, I felt a pull to do more with my writing.

Why couldn’t I have a book on that shelf?

Well, because you aren’t a writer.

And because you know nothing about children’s literature.

Smith

And because you just aren’t good enough.

These thoughts came quick and loud.

So I decided I would start learning. I read up on publishing houses, literary agents, and writing picture books. There was a sea of information that I had no idea existed. I walked the rows at our library, studying books and noting what I liked and didn’t like. Learning how to fit in this space that so few fit in.

I started writing wherever and whenever I could. On breaks at work, or when my youngest would nap. I’d share essays on social media, and scribble thoughts of articles in a notebook, or save them to my phone. I bought a laptop that was just for my writing. And I read everything I could read, paying close attention to what made the story work — what made me want to turn the next page.

Sean of the South

We were newlyweds, living in a grungy apartment.

Each morning, I would wake before her. I would pass my morning hours writing poetry on a yellow legal pad, sipping coffee.

Mostly, I’d write the kinds of god-awful things you’d expect newlyweds to write. I’m talking painfully corny stuff. I’d leave these poems on slips of paper scattered throughout our apartment for her to find.

One such poem read:

Together, the two of us, In thought, and deed, and breath, and heart, Shall never be lacerated apart.

Gag me with number-two pencil. “Lacerated?” What kind of a dork uses that word? In fact, I’m not certain this verb works in this particular case.

LACERATE [verb: las-uhreyt] lac·er·at·ed, lac·er·at·ing 1. to tear; mangle; rip.

Example: Hey dude, that poem you wrote really freakin’ lacerated.

My wife saved all my crummy poems in a shoebox, and today they reside in a storage closet.

Anyway, when we first married, we lived in an apartment that smelled like dead squirrels. I am not being figurative. I mean our apartment actually had a nest of decomposing squirrels in the attic above our master bedroom.

The place was tiny, and about as ugly

I think this new found passion made my husband and family wonder where this had come from. “You never wanted to write when you were younger,” they’d say. And they were right. Because I didn’t — until I did.

I knew I had to get out of my comfort zone and spread my wings with writing, otherwise I wouldn’t succeed. No one can read something that I don’t put out into the world.

As I was reading our local newspaper, 280 Living, I flipped to the editorial section. There were two columnists featured — a man writing on life in the South, and a woman writing about raising teenage girls. But that was all. Nothing that resembled the life that I was leading, with two small boys, in the trenches of early motherhood.

I typed up an email, asking the editor to take a chance on me. I told her that I could reach a whole group of readers like me. I attached a sample of my writing, and hoped she wouldn’t notice my lack of experience.

And I hovered over the send button. What am I doing?

There is no way this editor is even going to read my email.

By Sean Dietrich

For my Valentine

as homemade soap. The tenant before us had painted the walls black and greenish-gray. Sherwin Williams officially titled this color “Seasick Granite.”

When we moved in, we made the place our own. We painted the walls brown and khaki. We bought a used coffee table and some scented candles.

Dietrich

My friend, Chubbs, found an old console television on the side of the road. I was lucky enough to claim the TV before the garbage man came.

The thing was heavier than a dead preacher, but we got it up the stairs. Chubbs, however, would suffer from severe disc degenerative problems for the rest of his life.

Our building sat across the street from a Waffle House, a Chick-fil-A and an ice cream shop. And this is why we gained nearly fifty pounds within our first year of marriage.

We never went to the movies because we didn’t have the money. We ate Hamburger Helper without hamburger sometimes.

We saved our cash for a new window unit AC — our air conditioner was on the fritz. The thing would only work on days of the week beginning with “R.”

On weekends, every weekend, we ate donuts. It was our simple ritual, and I loved it. Krispy Kreme was only a stone’s throw from us, and when the hot-and-ready light would glow, by

The other columnists are authors. They have written actual books. Real ones.

But I hit send anyway. I said a prayer and pushed the button and it was done. I couldn’t take it back now, so I waited, and hoped she would at least reach out to say “No thanks!” instead of leaving me to wonder.

The next day, she emailed me saying I was exactly what they needed. Me? You need my words?

I couldn’t contain my excitement. Someone actually wanted to hear what I had to say! It was such a huge first step for me. My words, in print, out in the world. I haven’t published any books… yet. And I can’t call myself an author yet.

But … I am a writer. I am good enough. We all are, we just need to take a deep breath and press send. You never know what will be waiting for you out there.

Thank you Leah Eagle and 280 Living. It’s been a privilege to be featured here for a full year.

Alana is a nurse anesthetist, writer and boy mom (ages 7 and 2), who lives in north Shelby County with her husband, kids and Boxer, Sam. When she’s not writing or chasing little humans, she can usually be found in the aisles of Target. She shares her writings at Holy Moly Motherhood (on Facebook and Instagram), where she takes on all things motherhood and marriage.

God, we were there. Over donuts, we would talk for hours about nothing. Heavy doses of sugar can do things to the human mind. It can make a person honest.

She told me all her stories. I told her mine. You can do a lot of soul-searching over crullers.

My professional life was non-existent, I took whatever jobs I could get. I spent days crawling rooflines, swinging a hammer, or operating a commercial lawn mower. She worked as a preschool teacher at church, or in a kitchen.

For extra income, I played piano at a Baptist church on Sunday mornings, Sunday nights, Wednesday nights, Thursday night choir practices and Saturday night prayer meetings.

We learned things about each other. We learned important things.

We learned how to argue in the middle of a Winn-Dixie, and how to attend two Thanksgivings in one day. How to share a sunset, seated on the hood of a truck. How to read in bed with a flimsy battery-powered book light.

We learned how to travel together with paper maps. And after years of practice, we finally learned how to make a bed together without me getting murdered.

We learned how to hold each other when loved ones die. We learned how to sit together — me reading a magazine, her playing a crossword puzzle.

We learned how to wring our hands in hospital waiting rooms. We learned how bury dogs with a shovel and a burial sheet.

We learned how to make a life together.

A lot has changed since those days, but I still wake early in the mornings to write. I don’t use a legal pad anymore, I use a laptop.

This morning, however, I did not write. Instead, I sifted through our storage closet. I found things. An old coffee-tin sewing kit, some scented candles, love poems and the picture of a young man and his new wife in their first apartment.

In the picture, the place had ugly gray walls, but that’s the only ugly thing about this photo.

He’s holding her. She’s holding him. They are young. Their skin is smooth. I wish I could tell you how much I love these two people in the picture.

I wish you could see their faces, and their punch-drunk smiles. You can tell they belong together by looking at them. You simply know that their names should never be said apart.

It’s as though nothing bad in this life can ever touch them. As though the two of them, in thought, and deed, and breath, and heart, shall never be lacerated apart.

I suppose that word is growing on me.

Happy Valentine’s Day, Jamie.

Sean Dietrich is a columnist and novelist known for his commentary on life in the American South. He has authored nine books and is the creator of the “Sean of the South” blog and podcast.

North Shelby Library

FAMILY/ALL AGES

Thursdays: Family Fun Nights. Each week will feature a different fun activity program. This month will include a movie night, Lego challenge night, pizza and Pokémon, and Valentine-Making. Supplies provided. Registration required.

Feb. 4: Take Your Child to the Library Day. Learn how to sign up for a free library card at the information desk, and visit the Children’s Department to make a craft, pick up a bookmark, and snap a photo of library trips.

Feb. 15: Homeschool Hangout – A Friend in Bead is a Friend Indeed: Bead-Making. 1 p.m. Registration required. Grades K-12 with adult assistance if needed.

Feb. 16: Pizza & Pokémon. 6-7:30 p.m. Bring your Pokémon card deck to play classic Pokémon or device to play Pokémon GO. Join for Pokémon duels, amazing trades, and pizza. Registration required. All ages with adult assistance if needed.

STORYTIME

Wednesdays: Storytime Friends. 10:30 a.m. A story program ideal for ages 3 to 5 with caregivers nearby featuring stories, songs and fingerplays. Registration required.

Feb. 4: La Hora del Cuento. 10:30 a.m. Ven con tu familia a escuchar cuentos, cantar y divertirnos en español! Este evento es para niños de todas las edades. Niños menores de 12 años deben estar acompañados de sus padres. Los esperamos! Para más información vaya a northshelbylibrary.org. Todas las edades. Se require registro.

Feb. 21: Toddler Tuesday Storytime: Artsy Tots. 10:30 a.m. Stories and creative toddler-friendly art projects. Ages 18-36 months. Registration required.

Feb. 28: Baby Tales. 10:30 a.m. A short story time with music designed especially for babies (birth-18 months) and their caregivers. Registration required.

CHILDREN

All month: Activity Bundles. Available for pickup at the library. For more information, go to northshelbylibrary.org or call 205-439-5500.

Mondays: Library Doll/Plushie Internship Program. 10 a.m. to 7:30 p.m. Children can drop off a doll or stuffed animal to spend a week at the library. The senior storytime library mascot Shush Puppy will bring the toy around to the different departments to “work.” Registration required.

Tuesdays: Tech Tuesdays. 3:30-4:30 p.m. All ages with adult assistance if needed.

Feb. 14: Candy Science with Jan the Science Lady. 10:30 a.m. All ages. Registration required.

Feb. 15: K-5th Homeschool Art Craft Kit to Go: Beaded Pipe Cleaner Dragonflies. 1 p.m. Registration required. Grades K-5 with adult assistance if needed.

TWEENS/TEENS

All month: Tween To-Go Kit: Shrinky Dinks. Stop by the Children’s Department to pick up a Shrinky Dink kit to design and make a keychain at home.

Mondays: Teen Dungeons & Dragons. 6 p.m. A weekly meeting with multiple sessions running simultaneously. New players are welcome to join at the beginning of the month, or spectate the remaining sessions until a new campaign begins.

Feb. 2: Teen Manga Book Club. 5 p.m. Manga discussion with Japanese snacks.

Feb. 3: Teen Girls’ Book Club. 4:30 p.m. Discussing “The Book Thief.”

Feb. 4: Spanish Club. 2 p.m. Ages 8-17.

Feb. 6: Tween Leadership Council Meeting. 4:30 p.m.

Feb. 9: Two of a Kind Resin Earring Workshop. 5 p.m. Create Valentine's Day themed earrings out of UV resin. Registration required.

Feb. 10: Teen Movie Night: “The Princess Bride.” 5:15 p.m. Snacks provided, registration required.

Feb. 13: Heartcraft: A Creative Minecraft Challenge. 4 p.m. Young Adult Department. A kindness-themed Minecraft Creative Build Challenge. Limited spots. Registration required.

Feb. 17: Tween Book Club. 4:30 p.m. Book discussion and vote for next week’s book choice. Snacks provided.

Feb. 18: Teen Volunteer Day. The library will host several volunteer days this semester. 6th-12th graders can sign up for 1-2 hours of service. Limit five volunteers per day. Registration required.

Feb. 24: Teen Leadership Council Semester Meeting. 4 p.m. For more information, contact Kaitlyn at 439-5512 or nsyoungadult@shelbycounty-al.org.

ADULTS

Feb. 3: Language Club. 5 p.m. Registration required.

Feb. 7: Social Crafting. 10 a.m. An informal get-together to make things with your hands while socializing.

Feb. 10-11 and 17-18: North Shelby Library presents the ASO. Each registrant receives two tickets for the Alabama Symphony Orchestra’s Mendelssohn’s Italian Symphony on Feb. 10-11 and Beethoven’s Triple Concerto on Feb. 17-18. Register using the library’s online calendar and pick up the physical tickets from the library before the concert.

Feb. 16: NSL Book Club. 10:30 a.m. Discussing “The Brighter the Light” by Mary Ellen Taylor. Registration required only for Zoom — include email upon registration to receive an invitation.

Mt Laurel Library

CHILDREN

Feb. 3 and 17: Ukulele Storytime. 10 a.m. Stories, music and bubbles. Ages 19 to 36 months and a caregiver; siblings welcome. No registration required.

Feb. 11: Crafty Saturday. Stop by the library to make a craft or take it to go. While supplies last.

Feb. 13: Valentine Painting Take and Make. Make a craft for Valentine’s Day. Registration required.

TWEENS

Feb. 10: Tween Pizza and Paint. 4:30-6 p.m. Registration required.

ADULTS

Feb. 2: Mt Laurel Book Club. 1 and 7 p.m. Discussing “The Personal Librarian” by Marie Benedict and Victoria Christopher Murray.

Feb. 9: Memoir Writing Workshop – Dunnavant Valley Remembers. 1:30 p.m. Writing workshop to chronicle the many stories of the pandemic. Judith Lunsford will lead in writing a memoir.

Feb. 13: Mt Laurel Knitting Group. 2-4 p.m. Knitting, crocheting or embroidery project and craft at the library. The group meets the second Monday of each month. Hosted by Jamie Skripnik.

Feb. 15: Lunch and Learn – Financial Planning. Noon. Financial advisor David Lecompte will speak on general financial planning topics. Lunch provided. Registration required.

Feb. 23: Acrylic Painting. 10 a.m. Paint a hydrangea with local artist Sandy Johnson. All supplies will be provided. No experience needed. Registration required.

Chelsea Library

CHILDREN

Feb. 4 and 18: Chess Club. 2 p.m. Outdoor Patio. Registration required.

Feb. 11: Lego Day. 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Children's Floor. Create with Legos.

Feb. 14: Virtual Music & Books Club. 5:30 p.m. An online music and books club with Ms. Samantha.

Feb. 25: KZT Hands On S.T.E.A.M. Day. 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Children's Floor.

TEENS

Feb. 11: Lego Day. 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Children's Floor.

Feb. 13: Teen Book Club. 5-6 p.m. Conference Room. Join Mrs. Amy each month for book discussion and a free dinner.

ADULTS

Feb. 9: Book Club. 10 a.m. Outdoor Patio. Discuss a new book and topic each month.

Feb. 13: Medicare Info. 10-11 a.m. Outdoor Patio. Ask Ms. Debra Quinn Medicare questions for a walk-through of the ins-andouts of Medicare.