280 Living June 2014 by Starnes Media

280 Living

280Living.com

June72014 A1 June 2014 | Volume | Issue• 10

neighborly news & entertainment

A tale of triumph

Technically speaking OMMS robotics students hope their current success leads to a future for the program By JEFF THOMPSON

A mother will share her daughter’s story of overcoming trials during a event this month in Mt Laurel. Read more about 280 area events inside.

Events page B3

Gone fishing

Find our complete guide to what’s biting around the 280 corridor in this issue.

Feature page A16

INSIDE Sponsors ...... A4 280 News ..... A6 Business ...... A10 Food ............. A13

On a computer across the room, Omar Zuaiter is entering code. As he hammers commands into the computer, the bulky skeleton of what looks like a tiny piece of construction equipment starts to heave. Twenty feet away, it rolls across a gray mat and swings its top arm down at a red ball. Two rotors on the front of the arm start to spin and, well, the beastly robot wildly misses it’s objective. “I’m still working it out,” Omar said. Omar is an eighth-grade member of Team Blunderbuss (named for a pirate pistol), one faction of the robotics program at Oak Mountain Middle School. He and other members of the team spend most of their afternoons in the technology lab at the school, but they spend most of their days thinking about what goes on in there. They scratch robot designs in notebooks they

carry around everywhere. Not only are he and his teammates learning engineering, in about a year’s time they’ve become engineers — good ones. “I’m fourth place in the nation for programming,” Omar said, referring to the 2013 VEX Robotics National Competition. This month, Omar, Jadon Bailey, Garrett Tautkus and Ryan Cruce — Team Blunderbuss — are returning to nationals after taking first place in the state competition held in April. They’re confident in their creation, and none of them show the slightest signs of being nervous. Maybe it’s because of their track record. In last year’s VEX, OMMS finished in the top 10 in the nation. But how they got there is even more inspiring. While other programs have been building for years, OMMS hasn’t. Two summers ago, there wasn’t much to see in the wood

See ROBOTICS | page A26

Community .. B1 School House ... B14 Sports ............... B16 Calendar .......... B20

Oak Mountain Middle School robotics sponsor James Salvant stands with members of the team that will participate in the national competition this month. From left are Garrett Tautkus, Jadon Bailey and Omar Zuaiter. Photo by Jeff Thompson.

Grandview in progress Changes visible one year after Trinity on 280 cleared to construct

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By JEFF THOMPSON

Drivers on U.S. 280 can see signs of construction at Grandview Medical Center. Photo by Jessa Pease.

It’s been one year since the lights went green for Trinity on 280 — now officially Grandview Medical Center — and since then the project has kept its foot on the gas. Trinity Medical CEO Keith Granger said Grandview

Medical is on track to open during the first quarter of 2016. Construction on the campus has progressed rapidly, focusing largely on the parking deck and physicians’ building slated to accompany the main facility. Granger said contractors

See TRINITY | page A27

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280 Living

About Us Photo of the month

Please Support our Community Partners

Chelsea Mayor Earl Niven and the City Council hosted a groundbreaking ceremony May 20 for the city’s community center. At the event, Niven prayed for safe construction and the future building. Photo by Jessa Pease.

Editor’s Note By Jeff Thompson In 2012, I was picked scoffed at every SUV that up by a small publishing slipped into the five-mile company in Birmingham queue in front of me. I and named community think it took me an hour to editor for an area I knew get where I was going. nothing about. I knew better the next time. And the 100 times I had come to the area recently from Tuskegee after. In learning, I made and was accustomed to that many friends, and 15-minute drives through more. To those friends, I dense forest to reach my offer my sincerest thanks destinations. There were for the connections, comJeff Thompson barely any stop signs. I passion and, most imporoften hit the brakes on tantly, the time. There is no my way to Union Springs to let turkeys end to the generous nature of the people cross the highway in front of my truck. on the 280 corridor. Through them each day, unsurprisImagine my surprise at U.S. 280. The first week as community editor, ingly, 280 improves. A child learns a skill, a business adds I found myself using a map on my cell phone to find a cut-through from 280 to a service or a family makes a friend in a I-65. I discovered Cahaba Valley Road, new neighbor. Each day, the bonds of a and at 3 p.m. I took it. I cringed and thriving community grow stronger, and

Clarification: 1. What is your background? I have been a small business owner in real estate for the last 40 years. I have been married to my wife, Martha, for 46 years and have two children and two grandsons. I have been involved with numerous civic organizations. I was the first Republican elected in Shelby County and have served as county commissioner, state representative and mayor. I am the only candidate with elected public experience. I am

Publisher: Creative Director: Managing Editor: Staff Writers: Editorial Assistant: Advertising Manager: Sales and Distribution:

Graphic Designers: Contributing Writers:

Interns:

Don Murphy is running for Alabama House of Representatives District 43. He did not appear in the candidate profiles in our May issue. To read all candidate profiles for District 43, see page A20.

a hard-working, conservative, pro-life candidate. 2. What is the biggest issue facing the state in the upcoming year Our state’s funding is the biggest issue. Our economy and future depends on our children. Our children’s futures are not bargaining chips. Education must be funded. Local issues that demand attention include education, flooding, sewer cost and road projects.

Dan Starnes Keith McCoy Madoline Markham Katie Turpen Jessa Pease Madison Miller Matthew Allen Rhonda Smith Warren Caldwell Michelle Salem Haynes Nathan Pearman Emily VanderMey Wayne Marshall Jeff Thompson Michael Seale Rick Watson Kari Kampakis Paul Johnson Sydney Cromwell Rachael Headley

For advertising contact: dan@280living.com

through those bonds the future brightens. With my absence from 280 Living, this pattern will continue. I’ve made great friends, but the person after will make more. I told their stories, and the person after me will tell them better. It’s just the way it is around here. This publication is one brick in the foundation you and your neighbors have set out to build. As you continue to build your future on top, 280 Living will be on your desks and coffee tables to remind you of not only how you did it but also how you did it well. My best to you and yours.

3. What is the biggest issue facing the 280 corridor in the upcoming year? I am concerned about our district. The most important issue is what affects everyone — our public schools. Oak Mountain schools are what drive the 280 corridor of our district. With strong schools, our housing values stay strong, which increases opportunities for employment and commercial growth. The debt on Heardmont Stadium is not only strangling our schools but also our

youth programs. Youth programs are at capacity and do not have adequate field space. Join with me and let’s retire this debt.

280 Living neighborly news & entertainment

Contact Information: 280 Living PO Box 530341 Birmingham, AL 35253 (205) 313-1780 dan@280living.com

Please submit all articles, information and photos to: editor@280living.com P.O. Box 530341 Birmingham, AL 35253 Published by : Starnes Publishing LLC

Legals: 280 Living is published monthly. Reproduction or use of editorial

or graphic content without prior permission is prohibited. 280 Living is designed to inform the 280 community of area school, family and community events. Information in 280 Living is gathered from sources considered reliable but the accuracy cannot be guaranteed. All articles/photos submitted become the property of 280 Living. We reserve the right to edit articles/photos as deemed necessary and are under no obligation to publish or return photos submitted. Inaccuracies or errors should be brought to the attention of the publisher at (205) 313-1780 or by email.

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280 Medical Supply (B21) Alabama Telco Credit Union (A25) Alabama Allergy & Asthma Center (B4) Alabama Gaslight & Grill (A21) Alabama Outdoors (A16) Alabama Power (B23) ARC Realty (A6) Arnold Mooney Campaign (A18) AUX Mechanical (A21) Bedzzz Express (A2) Bellini’s (B22) Birmingham Museum of Art (B24) Birmingham Speech and Hearing Associates (A26) Brook Valley Management (B18) Cahaba Dermatology and Skin Care Center (A25) Cahaba Glass (B9) Chiropractic Today (A18) Christ Church United Methodist (B16) Classic Gardens (A8) Clear Advantage Pantry (B1) Cowboy’s (B20) Danberry at Inverness (A13) Decorating Dens Interiors (B17) Diana Holladay (A19) Encore Rehabilitation (B8) Expedia CruisShipCenters (A7) Fitness Together Greystone (A27) Geostone (A15) Greater Shelby County Chamber of Commerce (B4) Greystone Antiques & Marketplace (B6) Guitar Gallery (B16) Hanna’s Garden Shop (B6) Harmony Landing (B14) Hendrick Hoover Auto Mall (A23, B22) Heritage South Credit Union (A10) Home Care Associates (A14) Indian Springs School (A19) Issis & Sons (A12) John Samaniego for Sheriff (A12) Kidz Closet Consignment (A19) Kimberlee King (B10) Korduroy Krocodile (B16) Lawncrafters (A27) Learning by Design (B12) Levy’s Fine Jewelry (A1) Liberty Park (B2) Med South Family Care (B19) Merle Norman Chelsea (B15) North Shelby Dental Studio (B18) Olio Oils and Balsamics (B10) Outdoor Living Areas (A5) Pak Mail (A26) Pastry Art (B14) Plain Jane Children & Gift Shop (A26) Re/MAX Advantage - Terry Crutchfield (B13) RealtySouth Marketing (A11) Red Mountain Theatre Company (A21) Richard Joseph Salon and Spa (A1) Rick Needham (A14) Royal Automotive (A3) Sew Sheri Designs (B3) Somerby at St. Vincent’s One Nineteen (B9) Southeastern Jewelers and Engravers (A8) St. Vincent’s One Nineteen (A28, B20) T-Mobile (B5) Tae Kwon Do (B11) Target Auction Company (B21) The Altamont School (A5) The Cuckoo’s Nest (B12) The Maids (B8) Trinity Medical Center (A24) UAB Medicine (A23) Varsity Sports (B1) Village Dermatology (B7) Vision Gymnastics (A23) Vitalogy Wellness Center (A9) Your Good Neighbor (B23)

280Living.com

June 2014 • A5

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Needham running for Shelby County Sheriff Candidate Rick Needham is seeking to pursue his goal of being named the new Shelby County Sheriff. He is personally endorsed by Sheriff Richard Mack. Needham grew up with a father who was in the group of first UDT’s that would later become the Navy SEALS, and he was a lieutenant on the Birmingham police force and helped start and organize the SWAT team. After serving as police chief of Montevallo, Needham’s father retired after 17 years of service. This police family’s roots were planted in Shelby County, and as a long-term resident, Needham said he felt a calling to serve the people of the place where he grew up. Needham attended Auburn University, where he played football for coach Pat Dye and learned to read the scripture and study the word of God through the Fellowship of Christian Athletes. He said his time at Auburn was instrumental in forming his character and dedication to his family and community. After his time at Auburn, Needham attended the Montgomery Police Academy and then worked for the Auburn police department. He began his corporate investigative agency while also serving the City of Montevallo as a reserve officer. Needham has served as CEO and director of investigations for the past 22 years at agencies nationwide. He is also a member of the Constitutional Sheriff’s and Peace Officers Association. His plans for bettering Shelby County involve school safety, drug use and the second amendment. Needham said criminals will no longer be given a gunfree zone to harm and threaten children. He plans to have armed personnel on school grounds in the form of school officials being trained and educated on gun safety as well as how to deal with threats on school property. He seeks to eliminate living in a place where you can buy drugs from your next-door neighbor. Needham said he plans to tackle the larger problem in this arena by going

Hugh Daniel Drive to be resurfaced By WILLIAM C. SINGLETON III The Hoover City Council agreed to enter a maintenance contract with the Alabama Department of Transportation to resurface Hugh Daniel Drive on May 19. The repaving will cover about 4,000 feet of road from U.S. 280 east to Dunavant Road. The project will cost about $1.3 million to complete with the City of Hoover paying 20 percent or $260,000. Mayor Gary Ivey said the project should begin in late summer or early fall.

Foundation donates training aids to sheriff’s office

Rick Needham

after the dealers and not just the users, and he plans to use the full force of the law to eliminate the dealers from the county. Needham has also taken an oath to defend second amendment rights and to never confiscate or register firearms in Shelby county. For more information about Needham, visit RickNeedham.com. Editor’s Note: Other candidates’ announcements for Shelby County Sheriff have run in previous issues and are available on 280living.com. To see a complete list of candidates, see page A19.

Last month, the Shelby County Law Enforcement Foundation presented $1,400 in training weapons to Lt. Cody Sumners for the Shelby County Sheriff’s Office Training Center. From left are Don Radke, Mike Gibbs, Sumners and Mike Echols. In the background is the spring 2014 class of the Shelby County Citizens Sheriff’s Academy. Photo courtesy of Mike Gibbs.

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June 2014 • A7

Student writes grant to expand school recycling program

Oak Mountain High senior Myrah Taylor recently received a grant from the St. Vincent’s Foundation to expand recycling programs in the school. She is pictured with Shelby County Schools Superintendent Randy Fuller. Photo courtesy of Shelby County Schools.

Shelby County is a little more green thanks to the efforts of an Oak Mountain High School senior. Myrah Taylor has been a Girl Scout for 12 years and first began her recycling project as a Brownie. She started then with phone books, and when she reached high school she expanded her goals. As a sophomore, after learning that her high school did not have a recycling program in place, Myrah developed a marketing plan and submitted it to her principal, Joan Doyle, for approval. She wrote the grant and received $500 to place a bin for recycling paper in every classroom and office in the school. Myrah, an active Girl Scout, has earned the organization’s program aid, leadership, bronze and silver awards. This year she is working toward a goal of earning the Gold Award, the highest service award given through the organization. The honor is achieved by only 10 percent of Girl Scouts. “When it was to time to select a service project to submit to the council, it did not surprise me that she chose a recycling project,” said Myrah’s mother, Brenda Taylor Myrah recently wrote a grant for $2,500 from the St. Vincent’s Foundation to expand her program to include plastic and aluminum recycling. She gathered data on how the paper recycling program saved disposal costs at OMHS and freed up funds to be used for other student programs. Approached by the student body president,

she was asked about expanding the program to Heardmont Field, where football and track meets are held. She teamed up with the Student Government Association and submitted another grant proposal for a $1,000 Wal-Mart Community Foundation grant, this time incorporating the logo of the donor on the larger bins as a marketing tool. She submitted and received the Wal-Mart grant in time for Earth Day on April 22. It will be used to put additional recycling bins for plastic and aluminum at the stadium at Heardmont Park. The most recent $2,500 grant will be used to put bins in the school cafeteria, gym, teacher workroom and at the football practice field. Myrah is a senior at Oak Mountain High School where she serves as an Oak Mountain Ambassador, peer assistant and former member of the Starlette dance team. She wrote a brochure titled “Neglected and Abused Children” that is used by the peer assistant as a teaching tool. This year she organized a Blue Ribbon fundraiser in support of Owen House, Shelby County’s Child Advocacy Center, and will present a check for $1,507.12 to that organization. She is a member of the 2014 class of Shelby County Distinguished Young Women where she was a finalist and second alternate. She was also a top 10 finalist in the Miss Alabama Outstanding Teen scholarship program. — Shelby County Schools

Security measures in Shelby schools to be upgraded over summer By JEFF THOMPSON With the start of the 2014-2015 school year, parents can expect changes in the way they reach their children during the school day. In May, the Shelby County Schools Board of Education approved funding for a plan to reshape the front entrances of every school in the district over the summer. Tom Ferguson, SCS assistant superintendent of operations, said the project will improve safety by creating an additional barrier between visitors and school children. “We’re looking at all front entrances of school buildings from the point of view of safety and security,” Ferguson said. “We want to make that space a little more confined and cause those who come to the schools to be identified or check in prior to them having access to the building as a whole.” Ferguson said the security upgrades will create vestibules at school entrances by installing an additional door between visitors and the school. This area will be monitored by cameras, and the door will be controlled by

a magnetic lock that can only be accessed by school personnel. For most schools, Ferguson said, work conducted over the summer includes installing a new set of doors. He said most construction will be complete by the start of the year but said some work could continue into the first months of school. Shelby County Schools launched the Safe Schools Initiative in early 2013 following the shootings at Sandy Hook Elementary School in Connecticut. School leaders assembled a five-point plan to increase security that included safety reviews of school architecture. “This plan is a different idea for the entrance to each school,” said Josh Britnell, assistant principal at Chelsea High School. “The main entrance will be very well defined so there’s no confusion on where to go and sign in. It will make things easier for outside visitors and safer for the students.” Ferguson said the board of education unanimously approved a low bid of $751,990 from Williford Orman Construction of Pelham for construction.

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Chamber celebrates Small Business Month The Greater Shelby Chamber of Commerce has lined up a month of events to celebrate the county’s small businesses. More than 70 percent of Chamber members are classified as small businesses, and the Chamber’s Small Business Work Group will host events this month to recognize their impact. Events, sponsored by Regions Bank, will conclude with the 2014 Small Business of the Year awards luncheon on June 25. On June 23, the Chamber will host the Small Business nominees’ reception at Ballantrae Country Club in Pelham. The event is inviteonly, but nominees and recipients will later be recognized at the luncheon. During the luncheon, the Small Businesses of the Year, in four categories, will be recognized, and the recipients in each category will be announced. The event will also feature comments from Nick Pihakis from Jim ‘N Nick’s

BBQ, sharing a local success story. The luncheon will be 11 a.m.-1 p.m. on June 25 at the Pelham Civic Complex and Ice Arena. Cost for members is $20 per person and $30 per person for nonmembers. Reservations are requested by noon on Monday, June 23. Call the Chamber at 663-4542 or register online at shelbychamber.org. Recipients of the 2013 Small Business Person of the Year were ` Walker Backflow and Fire Protection Services LLC: 1-10 employees, open one year or longer. ` Donut Joe’s Inc.: 11-20 employees, open one year or longer. ` Sav Mor Food Outlet: more than 20 employees, open one year or longer. See more events celebrating small business as they’re announced at shelbychamber.org.

Valleydale roadwork Resurfacing to begin this summer, widening still years away By JEFF THOMPSON Hoover Mayor Gary Ivey says residents can expect construction to begin on the widening of Valleydale Road in the next four to six years. In the meantime, they could see a smoother ride by the end of 2014. Last month, the Shelby County Commission approved the Alabama Department of Transportation to proceed with a project to resurface Valleydale Road. Shelby County Engineer Randy

Cole said the resurfacing will extend from Caldwell Mill Road to U.S. 280. Cole predicted the project would be bid in July and construction could begin by September. Resurfacing work would take place at night as not to disrupt traffic through the already congested area. The resurfacing project is entirely separate from the city of Hoover’s plan to widen the road in the same area. Ivey said the city, Shelby County and ALDOT completed the preliminary design

The Greater Shelby Chamber held a reception for the Small Business of the Year nominees as part of its Small Business Week Celebration last year. Pictured are John Collier, Brooke Story, Butch Byrd, Ballantrae Golf Club and Jeff Brown.

Small Business in Alabama ` About 394,000 Alabama businesses have fewer than 500 employees. ` They account for 96.9 percent of all employers. ` They employ 49 percent of the private-sector

and environmental assessment phases for the widening project. Last fall, the Hoover City Council approved a supplemental agreement with Volkert Inc. to provide right-of-way acquisition services. Volkert was also responsible for environmental studies, field surveys and securing corridor approval for the project. “This phase is expected to last anywhere from one to two years depending upon the number and complexity of any issues that arise,” Ivey said. “Once the right-of-way has been obtained, the next phase to be completed is utility relocation.” Ivey said numerous large utilities adjacent to this 3.5-mile

labor force. ` 81 percent of all businesses in the state have no employees. ` Most employers have fewer than 20 employees. Source: 2010 sba.gov figures

section of roadway will have to be relocated, including a stretch of high power transmission lines. His conservative estimate was that this phase would require two to three years to complete. “Once the utilities have been relocated, then the project is ready for construction,” Ivey said. “Construction is expected to take 24 to 36 months to complete. Starting construction of this project in four to six years is a reasonable estimate.” Discussions about widening the road began in 1999, but the Hoover City Council didn’t launch the project until 2011. Last year, projected costs for the widening exceeded $12 million.

This year’s resurfacing project is connected to the Alabama Transportation Rehabilitation Improvement program, which Gov. Robert Bentley’s office announced in 2013. With this program, local governments provide a 20 percent match for identified projects. Cole said other ATRIP projects that will commence this summer include the resurfacing of Shelby County 52 and Shelby County 93 — Caldwell Mill Road and Cahaba Valley Trace between Valleydale Road and Alabama Highway 119. In 2013, these projects were predicted to cost $458,920, and resurfacing Valleydale Road was projected at a total cost of $1,216,270.

5299 Valleydale Road Suite 111 Birmingham, AL 35242 (two blocks from 280) www.southeasternjewelers.net • 980-9030

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Greystone Golf and Country Club begins $4 million renovations By SYDNEY CROMWELL The Greystone Golf and Country Club has been chosen as the site of the Regions Tradition golf championship for 2016 through 2018, and to prepare, the club is beginning a major renovation project. The $4 million renovation will include improvements to golf facilities and an expansion of the Founder’s Clubhouse amenities. General Manager Calvin Bolling said the Regions Tradition is only a catalyst for the project, which will primarily address member needs and wants. A survey showed that members wanted expanded access to fitness, child care and dining options. When the renovation plan was presented, it received support from 95 percent of eligible member voters. “Members said this is what they wanted, so this is what we’re going to deliver,” Club President-elect Roy Sewell said. In partnership with the Professional Golf Association, Greystone will upgrade sand traps and nine holes on its Founders Course, which will be used for the Regions Tradition. The course will be closed for about 90 days during renovations, which are set for completion in September. During that time, the Legacy Course will still be available for golfers’ use. A 9,000-square-foot golf operations center will be built near the Founders Course and will include a welcome plaza and a space for the club’s golf carts, which are currently located in the Founders Clubhouse. The Legacy Course will also be the home of a new teaching facility. “This is all about making our club a club of excellence,” Membership Marketing Director George Trible said. “We have the finest 36 holes of golf in a club setting in the greater Birmingham area.” Members will also have access to new services

Greystone Golf and Country Club’s clubhouse will be renovated to add a 24-hour fitness facility and other amenities. Images courtesy of Mallory Bobba, Greystone Golf and Country Club.

at the Founders Clubhouse. About 4,500 square feet will be added to the clubhouse’s lower level to make room for a child care center and a 24-hour fitness facility. Bolling said the fitness center will be four times larger than the current facility and will include rooms for Pilates, yoga and spin classes. An expanded kitchen and casual

dining and bar area will create a new place for members to socialize and host events. “We’re trying to create a space that will draw more members more often,” Trible said. Renovations begin this month, starting with the course upgrades and the golf operations center. Project completion is slated for spring

2016. Bolling said members will not see an increase in their dues to fund the project. “We’re excited for [members],” Bolling said. “It’s going to provide them with so much that this club has been missing.” To learn more about the project, visit greystonecc.com or call 980-5200.

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June 2014 • A11

Now Open Southern Roots, 48 Chesser Crane Road, Suite E, in Chelsea, is now open. The store carries women’s contemporary clothing and unique accessories. 602-8085. wehavesouthernroots.com.

Women’s fashion fitness brand Athleta opened a location at The Summit in May. The store is located at 225 Summit Blvd., Suite 1000. 298-8812. athleta.com.

Groom 280, a pet grooming salon, is now open at 5510 U.S. 280. 243-3818.

Coming Soon Expedia CruiseShipCenters is scheduled to open in the Village at Lee Branch on June 2. The travel agency owned by Jon Harvill specializes in cruises and is located at 270 Doug Baker Blvd., Suite 500. 437-3354.

Relocations and Renovations Greystone Golf and Country 5 Club, 4100 Greystone Drive, has announced a major $4 million facility renovation and enhancement this summer in preparation for the Champions Tour’s Regions Tradition, which it will host from 2016-2018. 980-5200. greystonecc.com. Principal Financial Group has relocated its Birmingham office to 3500 Blue Lake Drive, Suite 280. The office was formerly located in the Riverchase section of Hoover. 444-9004. principal.com.

News and Accomplishments Cadence Bank, with locations at 6801 Cahaba Valley Road and 104 Chelsea Point Drive in Chelsea, was ranked as the 15th best performing regional bank in the United States according to SNL Financial. 981-4700, 678-6801. cadencebank.com.

Weygand Insurance Agency Farmers Insurance, 398 Chesser Drive, Suite 1, Chelsea, was named the top specialty agency among all Farmers Insurance agencies in Alabama. 678-4711. farmersagent.com/sweygand.

McKay Building Company, 7059 Meadowlark Drive, placed second in the Addition Over $250,000 category in the 2014 Alabama Remodeling Excellence Awards. It also placed third in the Exterior Remodel category and third in the Universal Design category. 980-1718. mckaybuilding.com.

Hirings and Promotions Gresham, Smith and Partners, 3595 Grandview Parkway, Suite 300, has named Hal Humphrey, P.E., as an owner in the company. GS&P is an engineering firm with offices in more than 12 U.S. markets. 298-9200. gspnet.com.

ARC Realty, 5291 Valleydale Road, has hired Zoe Langner as an associate broker and Kayla Crook as a Realtor. 969-8910. arcrealtyco.com.

RealtySouth, 109 Inverness Plaza, has hired Brittany Barratt and Tadd Smith as Realtors. They will based out of the Inverness office. 991-6565. realtysouth.com

Strauss Financial Group Inc. has hired Martin Smith, MS, in family financial planning, to join its staff as a financial planner. Arthur Strauss and Scott Brown, financial advisers, recently obtained their life insurance licenses. 967-9595. straussfinancial.com.

Anniversaries Strauss Financial Group Inc., 2201 Cahaba Valley Drive, is celebrating its 26th anniversary. Established by Heidi and John Strauss, the company is an independent, fee-only, Registered Investment Advisor providing a full range of financial management and planning services. 967-9595. straussfinancial.com.

Closings 15

Wan’s Chinese in Inverness Corners has closed.

Business news

to share? Now Open Coming Soon

Relocation Expansion Anniversary

If you are in a brick and mortar business along the 280 corridor and want to share your event with the community, let us know.

280 Living neighborly news & entertainment

Email dan@280living.com

A12 • June 2014

280 Living

Business Spotlight

The FARM

Read past Business Spotlights at 280Living.com

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(Functional Athletic Rehabilitation and Medicine)

13521 Old Highway 280, Suite 125 419-1595 chirofarm.com Monday-Thursday: 8 a.m.-6 p.m. Friday: 8 a.m.-2 p.m. Saturday: appointment only

By SYDNEY CROMWELL For Dr. Beau Beard and Dr. Sloan Burdick, launching a chiropractor’s office in Chelsea was never part of their life plans. In May 2013, the couple were preparing to graduate from Logan College of Chiropractic in Missouri. After that, they intended to move to Florida to begin their chiropractic careers. While returning from a visit to Burdick’s family in Tallahassee, however, the couple’s car broke down on Interstate 65 in Birmingham. A local car dealership stepped in to help, offering everything from food for their dog to a borrowed car to return to Missouri. Despite having neither friends nor family in the city, this Southern hospitality made Beard and Burdick decide to relocate to Birmingham. “We had all these future plans,” Burdick said. “Then they fell through, and the very next day we broke down here. So it was kind of like a sign.” Soon after moving to Birmingham, the couple decided to take the ambitious step of opening their own practice. On Valentine’s Day 2014, the FARM – Functional Athletic Rehabilitation and Medicine – opened its doors in Chelsea. While the FARM is a general chiropractic office, Beard and Burdick specialize in athletes

Dr. Sloan Burdick, left, and Dr. Beau Beard opened the FARM in February. Beard’s father made their front desk out of recycled barn lumber. Photo by Sydney Cromwell.

of all ages, from the casual weekend runner to the college football player preparing for a professional career. “Every patient that walks through our door, we think of them as an athlete. Your body is your biggest asset, so take care of yourself like a pro athlete does,” Beard said. The FARM offers chiropractic adjusting, injury rehabilitation, soft tissue therapy and other services to decrease pain and improve their patients’ athletic ability. The couple

are also working to develop relationships with local high schools and universities to provide chiropractic services and assessments for student athletes. “At school, we worked with the University of Missouri, with their football team, and that’s what we’re trying to develop here. That’s really the fun side of it for us,” Beard said. “Those are the athletes that are really motivated.” Beard and Burdick became

interested in chiropractic sports medicine because of their own athletic injuries. Beard, an avid runner, experienced a fractured femur that kept him from running for months, and Burdick’s competitive gymnastic career was almost ended by an injury in middle school. The help of a chiropractor allowed her to compete for seven more years. The FARM’s growth is almost entirely based on word of mouth and community involvement. Beard and

Burdick volunteer at runs throughout the year to get to know local athletes and bring in potential clients. “We have fun talking to people, but then they get to see what we do,” Beard said. “And that’s really our bread and butter.” Running their own practice immediately after graduation has been difficult, as they have to balance their roles as doctors and business owners. Since they knew no one in the area, Beard and Burdick had to build their network and list of patients from scratch. The experience has given them new appreciation for the hard work and advice of other small business owners in the area. “It’s put me in a different perspective. I want to seek out all the small businesses. If I’m buying or purchasing something, I want to use the little guy,” Burdick said. Despite the challenges of building a new business in an unknown city, their car breakdown in Birmingham gave Beard and Burdick a new life and career they love. “I get a lot of fulfillment knowing we created all this, and then having someone leave this telling us ‘Thank you’ or ‘Wow, you helped me,’” Burdick said. “Where we are, we knew no one. And to think how far we’ve come since starting here, that’s really cool.”

280Living.com

June 2014 • A13

Restaurant Showcase d

Read all the past Restaurant Showcases at 280Living.com ill Rd.

Neighborhood Brew

c Ro

Caldwell M

g id

da ley

5184 Caldwell Mill Road Suite 206 theneighborhoodbrew.com Hours: Monday-Friday, 6 a.m.-10 p.m. Saturday, 7 a.m.-10 p.m.

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By SYDNEY CROMWELL At the Neighborhood Brew, coffee is not meant for customers in a hurry. Instead, a drink at the Brew is a chance to take a break and relax with friends. “After we moved to this neighborhood we realized there is no place here to just sit and visit with your neighbors, with your friends or your family,” said Michelle Grossmann, who runs the coffee shop with her husband, Craig. Craig and Michelle opened the Neighborhood Brew in November 2013. They had never owned a restaurant before, but they wanted to create a place to “get out of the craziness that just keeps us running ragged and just have somewhere to come and sit and have a cup of coffee or bottle of beer or glass of wine.” In addition to coffee, beer and wine, the Brew also serves smoothies, chai tea, pastries, flatbreads and chips with salsa or hummus. The Grossmanns intend to add a panini bar in the summer, but the food is only a small part of their business plans. “We’re never going to be focused on the food, but we’re always going to be focused on the drinks and the community and the neighborhood,” Michelle said. The Brew is host to a variety of

Craig and Michelle Grossmann opened the Neighborhood Brew as a place for the community to enjoy a drink with friends without the hurry of a regular coffee shop. Photo by Sydney Cromwell.

customers, from high school study groups and business meetings to stayat-home mothers and people stopping

by for a post-dinner drink. Through small details, the Grossmanns have created a welcoming environment

for everyone who walks through their doors. Drinks are served out of glasses and ceramic mugs rather than paper

or plastic cups, and each customer’s order is brought to their table instead of being served at the counter. One corner of the shop, designated the “Living Room,” has a couch and a fireplace. “We just want to make people feel like they can sit all day if they want,” Michelle said. “I think we’re just trying to cater to the people that took time out of their day to come in and get comfortable. We just want to acknowledge and appreciate them.” While the Brew is still a young business, the Grossmanns are finding ways to get involved with their community. They sponsored the Frostbite 5K in February and have started hosting Thursday open mic nights and live music on Saturdays. Their goal is to see the Neighborhood Brew become known as a leisurely place for a good drink and a good time. “It’s bringing people together that’s the most enjoyable. Just making them happy. We’re here to make the customer happy,” Craig said. “They’re coming in and you have that opportunity to brighten their day if they’re having a down day or keep them going.” “It has helped us grow. It has helped bring people together,” Michelle said. “It’s just so nice, and I think we forget about that in our crazy lives.”

A14 • June 2014

280 Living

Father’s Day

For the

WOODSMAN Yeti cooler $230-$360 These aren’t just coolers — they’re built to defeat the outdoors. Whether it’s a weeklong fishing trip, four-day hunt or extended tailgate, the ice inside will refuse to melt. And if they don’t impress you that way, they’re also certified bear-resistant.

For the

CHEF Aprons and lodge pans $35-$43 These grilling aprons are sure to keep Dad protected and looking good while he grills up your favorite meal. Add on a Lodge cast iron pan that will last for many years to come.

Alabama Outdoors 108 Inverness Plaza 980-3303 alabamaoutdoors.com

Birmingham Bake & Cook Co. 5291 Valleydale Road, Suite 125 980-3661

For the

FASHIONABLE

For the

Bulova Accutron

RUNNER

$995 For the Dads who enjoy style, you can never go wrong with a watch. This trusted brand features sapphire crystal with three dials. Southeastern is running a special deal on it now, so don’t wait too long. Southeastern Jewelers 5299 Valleydale Ridge Road 980-9030

New Balance 990 & Fresh Foam 980 $109-$149

For the

FANATIC Columbia Omni-Shade Shirt $50 Show your team colors with a collared shirt Dad’s sure to enjoy. This items features 30 SPF for lake days or backyard grilling. The mesh fabric is sure to cool him down on a hot summer day. Bama Fever Tiger Pride 4618 U.S. 280 995-4445

Help Dad run the extra mile with a new pair of running shoes. The locally owned New Balance store has many different sizes and widths to put the right shoe on. New Balance 4618 Old U.S. 280, Suite 130 991-4446

280Living.com

Gift Guide

June 2014 â&#x20AC;˘ A15 For the

For the

SONGWRITER

LANDSCAPER Wolverine Shovel

$35

Nothing makes Dad happier than a well kept yard for the neighbors to see. This shovel will stand the test of time with contractor strength and build. Hannaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Garden Shop 5485 U.S. 280 991-2939

Gibson J-15 $1,500 This Gibson is built with a spruce top and walnut back and sides. The instrument can also be plugged in and played electric. Bailey Brothers 4673 U.S. 280 East 271-7827

For the

GOLFER TaylorMade SLDR Driver and Titleist Golf Balls $40-$400 Get Dad out on the course this summer with a brand new club in his bag. The new TaylorMade driver is a popular seller and will leave him driving the ball farther. Add a pack of Titleist Pro V1 or Pro V1x balls with the driver. Inverness Golf & Repair 4647-D U.S. 280 South 991-1008

For the

CONNOISSEUR Growler $10-$30 Choose from 30 beers on tap including local brews from Avondale, Good People and Trim Tab to fill these re-usable jugs for Dad. Cowboys 5492 U.S. 280 981-0994

A16 • June 2014

What’s biting?

National Fishing and Boating Week this month

By RACHAEL HEADLEY Alabama’s National Fishing and Boating Week is from June 1 to 8. With the cooperation of the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Services, there will be a free fishing day on June 7,

Not only does Oak Mountain State Park have great fishing at a scenic location, it also offers an opportunity for visitors to try other activities on the water. Photo by Nathan Kelly.

Oak Mountain 877 Findlay Drive, Pelham, AL 35124 620-2524 Located in Pelham, Oak Mountain State Park is Alabama’s largest state park. Oak Mountain has three lakes, totaling 230-acres, that are home to largemouth bass, bream, catfish and crappie.

While Oak Mountain State Park welcomes private boats, john-boats are available for rent. Additionally, tackle, supplies and bait are available for purchase on the premises at the back gate. Although no gasoline motors are allowed, boats with electric trolling motors are permitted. Fishing licenses are required for all participants outside of free fishing day on June 7. Oak Mountain also has a picnic area near the tackle and supply shop.

where even adults who do not have an Alabama fishing license may fish in public bodies of water. Children under 15 do not need a license. The weeklong holiday is only days away from another holiday: Father’s Day. What better way to

280 Living

spend National Fishing and Boating Week and Father’s Day than out on the water with dad? We have compiled a list of public places that allow fishing in the community so you — and your dad — can make the most out of your summer.

Members of the Lake Purdy Rowing Association can be seen regularly on the waters of Lake Purdy. Photo courtesy of Marietta Williams.

Lake Purdy 3780 Boat Launch Road Birmingham, AL 35242 991-9107 Lake Purdy is 4 miles northeast of Highway 280 off Highway 119 and offers free fishing seven days a week. The lake is surrounded by 7,800 acres of open green space and houses a full bait and tackle shop. Boat

rentals are available and no previous experience or boating license is necessary to rent. Prices vary from $15 to $22 dollars, depending on the size and time of rental. Here, you may use a gas or trolling motor, or even paddle yourself. If you have never been fishing before, Lake Purdy also offers fishing guides. For $250, you and a guest of your choice will receive tackle, food, refreshments and six hours with one of Lake Purdy’s guides.

280Living.com

June 2014 • A17

Finding the right fishing spot

There are plenty of good places to catch the big one. Check out these access points for the Cahaba River and Lay Lake.

Lake Purdy

Public access points:

Cahaba River

1 Civitan Park, Trussville

2 Grants Mill Road Bridge

OAK MOUNTAIN STATE PARK

Cahaba River

3 Old Overton Road 4 Lorna Road 5 Cahaba River National Wildlife Refuge

6 Perry Lakes Park 7 Sprott Bridge Lay Lake

5 5

8 Old Cahawba

Archaeological Park

Lay Lake

1 Kelly Creek

2 Glover’s Ferry 3 Childersburg 4 Beeswax Creek 5 Lay Lake 6 Paint Creek

7 Lay Dam

Each year, the Commissioner of Conservation and Natural Resources designates a Free Fishing Day for the public to fish recreationally in public waters without a fishing license. Saturday, June 7, is Free Fishing Day in Alabama. There is an exemption of the usual fishing license requirement on that day. Some lakes may still require fees and permits, and owner’s permission is required to fish private ponds.

Activities on the Cahaba include canoeing and fishing. Photo courtesy of Ben Thomson.

Cahaba River With 131 different fish species, the Cahaba River is home the most diverse fish population of any other temperate river of its size. Since the Cahaba River stretches through five counties, there is no specific area in direct coordination with the river that rents boats or gear. There are, however, boat rentals at nearby Alabama Small Boats Inc. Several tributaries and basins off the Cahaba River may be fished out of as well. Visit the Cahaba River

Society’s website, cahabariversociety.org, to view a complete list and to decide which one is closer for you. Public access points: `` Civitan Park, Trussville `` Grants Mill Road Bridge `` Old Overton Road `` Lorna Road `` Cahaba River National Wildlife Refuge `` Perry Lakes Park `` Sprott Bridge `` Old Cahawba Archaeological Park

Guests at Lay Lake and the Coosa River may choose to fish from a canoe. Photo courtesy of Coosa Riverkeeper.

Lay Lake Lay Lake, a 12,000-acre reservoir on the Coosa River, borders St. Clair, Talladega, Shelby, Coosa and Chilton counties. Although it is used by Alabama Power Co. for hydroelectricity, it is also a popular destination for fishing and boating recreation. With a large population of spotted and largemouth bass, Lay Lake is home to several different species of fish including bream, catfish and crappie. There are seven public access points to the

lake, and multiple locations targeted to what type of fish you are trying to catch. For more information about different areas of the lake, please visit laylake.info. `` `` `` `` `` `` ``

Kelly Creek Glover’s Ferry Childersburg Beeswax Creek Lay Lake Paint Creek Lay Dam

A18 • June 2014

280 Living

Your Health Today By Dr. Irma Palmer

Playing golf is a fantastic form of exercise (if you forgo the golf cart) and is a natural stress reliever. However, golf is tough on the spine and leads to back disorders. Regular chiropractic care is not only proven to keep your spine aligned but research shows it can boost your golf performance. 75% of golfers in the PGA sing the praises of chiropractic care. Pro-golfer, Tiger Woods has been an advocate for chiropractic care for years. “Being a Chiropractic patient has really helped me immensely…lifting weights and seeing a Chiropractor on a regular basis has made me a better golfer. I’ve been going to Chiropractors for as long as I can remember. It’s as important to my training as practicing my swing”, Tiger Woods. It becomes obvious to nearly any sports enthusiast why the world’s greatest athletes choose to include chiropractic care as part of their lifestyle, it simply works! But you don’t have to be a pro golfer to benefit from chiropractic care. Chiropractic care helps any athlete to restore function to spinal joints that are fixated. Muscles, joints and ligaments depend upon proper joint movement for peak performance. Injuries to these tissues can reduce range of motion, decrease blood supply and literally “take you out of the game”.

Perfect Posture Proper posture on and off the course is essential to your health and for avoiding injuries. If your spine is out of alignment, then your swing will be out of alignment. Professional and amateur golfers seek regular chiropractic adjustments to avoid injuries and to maintain that perfect golf swing they’ve worked hard to

Golf Performance & Chiropractic

achieve. Optimal posture improves your ability to strike the ball more consistently by increasing the range of motion of your stroke. If you’re like 90% of the population, you suffer from forward-head posture in your everyday life. With the majority of us spending hours slouched in front of our laptops, or smart phones, the incidence of this condition has

increased dramatically over the past 10 years. As a golfer with forward-head posture attempts to get into an optimal golf stance, he/ she may attempt to pull back the shoulders and head, but find it virtually impossible to fully straighten up. The rounding of the shoulders and the head coming forward of the center of gravity shifts the body’s balance. Without that balance and stability, stroke power and stroke accuracy are highly compromised. Make time to stretch and warm up; No matter what sport or physical activity you are about to take part in, it is essential to warm up and stretch those muscles in your neck, back, legs and arms. As a doctor of chiropractic, I can create a tailored exercise program which outlines a routine for you to follow both on and off the golf course. Bottom line golf equals lower back injuries. Therefore, before reaching for the pain pills for a quick fix to alleviate pain consider chiropractic care. Medication only masks the pain and creates a false sense of relief fooling your body into thinking it can do more which can lead to more serious injuries. Chiropractors are well trained to restore alignment and motion to your spine through gentle and safe chiropractic adjustments. Our objective is to improve your game both on and off the course. Contact us for complimentary consultation and mention this article for our special June offer.

280Living.com

June 3 Republican Primary Candidate Guide

June 2014 • A19

Shelby County Sheriff

Larry McDow Pelham Police Department.

1. What is your background? I have a BS degree in law enforcement. I have 30 years of law enforcement experience with the Birmingham Police Department uniform patrol and in investigations such as Major Felony Squad and Internal Affairs. I am currently with the

2. What is the biggest law enforcement issue facing the state and how would you address it? There two main crime issues facing our state/county and that is drugs and their manufacture, sale and use. All contribute to further crimes and victims. I would be very proactive in the use of every available resource including working with other law enforcement agencies to track down these individuals and put them out of business. The other growing crime issue is identity theft/phone and

Kip Cole

computer scams. I would use all possible means to inform and educate the public about these frauds to avoid becoming a victim. 3. What is the biggest issue facing the U.S. 280 corridor in the upcoming year and how would you address it? The 280 corridor is becoming heavily populated, and with that, besides the traffic issue, brings a greater potential for all types of crime. I believe in a strong police presence in the area by attacking the issues proactively and not merely responding in a reactive manner.

John Samaniego with Sheriff Curry in developing new operating procedures for the Sheriff’s Office, centralizing 911 communications, establishing new standards for community notifications of sex offenders and developing future leadership from within the Sheriff’s Office. 1. What is your background I have more than 35 years of law enforcement and command experience. After serving as the assistant chief of police for the Tuscaloosa Police Department, where I also served as the commander of the West Alabama Narcotics Task Force, Sheriff Chris Curry sought out John Samaniego to serve as his chief deputy. For over a decade, I have served

2. What is the biggest law enforcement issue facing the state and how would you address it? The greatest problem that we are facing is an increase in drug use. Drug addiction is not discriminatory across our country. Families in the wealthiest of communities can personally relate to the challenges of family members struggling with addiction, just as families in some of

1. What is your background? I have been a Shelby County resident for more than 21 years. I joined the Hoover Police Department in 1986 and since 2005 have served as the chief’s executive officer. I also served as commander of the Field Operations Bureau from 2008 to 2010.

the most impoverished areas of country. The greatest problem is our youth are falling victim to drug addiction as well. 3. What is the biggest issue facing the U.S. 280 corridor in the upcoming year and how would you address it? The biggest issue facing the 280 corridor is infrastructure. The volume of traffic in the Highway 280 corridor can easily and quickly attest to the challenge of maintaining a smooth flow of traffic when overcoming a traffic accident or disabled vehicle. The solution, with respect to public safety, is to ensure there is adequate presence in the corridor to maintain a safe and smooth flow of traffic.

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2. What is the biggest law enforcement issue facing the state and how would you address it? Drug abuse is a problem not only for our state but it also continues to plague our country. Law enforcement across the state must continue the efforts to network and share information while maintaining an aggressive and proactive approach toward counter drug initiatives. I support the use of multi-jurisdictional drug task force operations and initiating an education and awareness program to warn our youth of the dangers related to drug activity.

3. What is the biggest issue facing the U.S. 280 corridor in the upcoming year and how would you address it? The biggest issue facing the U.S. 280 corridor, from a law enforcement perspective, is the continued growth of the population. With the continued growth comes opportunity for the criminal element to take advantage of and victimize law-abiding citizens. Law enforcement must formulate a plan, prepare, and prioritize operational goals and objectives to meet the future needs for public safety.

Rick Needham

1. What is your background? I grew up in a police family and was in law enforcement myself before starting my own corporate investigative agency, which I have operated for 22 years.

2. What is the biggest law enforcement issue facing the state and how would you address it? I believe it is drug-related crimes and acquiring appropriate funding to provide the proper services and equipment needed to combat that. As far as my plans for Shelby County, I plan on taking a consumer department that relies totally on taxpayer funding and building a more self-sustainable department by revenue-generating programs like a training academy, forensics lab, and a correctional

program focusing on rehabilitation and production of resources. Drug abuse affects all aspects of public safety and the safety of our families. 3. What is the biggest issue facing the U.S. 280 corridor in the upcoming year and how would you address it? This is a state engineering issue, but as far as the sheriff’s department is concerned, we will continue to enforce the traffic laws and maintain a visible presence and provide services as needed.

A20 • June 2014

June 3 Republican Primary Candidate Guide

U.S. House of Representatives Alabama District 43 as corporate counsel for a large communications company and appointment as a special judge. I am also a member of USA Track & Field’s law and legislation committee. 2. What is the biggest issue facing the state in the upcoming year? The main issue facing the state is funding. Alabama citizens deserve adequate funding for infrastructure, education, Medicaid, business development, prisons and the courts. I will work to cut wasteful spending, cut pork projects, and redirect and adequately fund all the items above, as well

Gina McDonald

1. What is your background? I am an attorney and small business owner and have operated a law firm in Shelby County for 10 years. 2. What is the biggest issue facing the state in the upcoming year?

John Bahakel

1. What is your background? I have been a licensed attorney for 32 years. Currently, I practice law in a small office handling the types of problems that face individuals and businesses. I am also an arbitrator and trained in mediation. My legal experience includes five years in the equity courts handling matters that required extraordinary remedies, time

3. What is the biggest issue facing the 280 corridor in the upcoming year? Traffic congestion continues to plague 280 and will intensify with the opening of Trinity and the supporting professional offices and businesses. In the short term I will meet with neighboring city officials to plan ways to maximize traffic flow and to implement solutions like commuter lanes and reliable public transportation. Long range goals will include discussions for phasing in light rail.

2. What is the biggest issue facing the state in the

upcoming year? Alabamians face oppressive federal government intrusion into our lives, eroding our privacy and individual freedoms. The Obama White House stands by Obamacare, which has robbed our people of jobs and the opportunity for affordable, choicedriven healthcare. It forces Common Core down our throats usurping the rights of parents and localities to make education choices, and it continuously invades our homes, phones and computers. Mandates from Washington are robbing Alabamians of our freedom

part of growing it from a group of sleepy neighborhoods to a major economic engine. I am endorsed by Rick Burgess of the Rick and Bubba Show, former Fox 6 news anchor Bill Bolen and Gun Owners of America.

1. What is your background? I have been married for 32 years and have raised three children. I am a family values, pro-life, committed conservative businessman who has lived and worked in Alabama House District 43 for more than 28 years. As a commercial real estate broker, I have been a

1. What is your background? I have been a small business owner in real estate for the last 40 years. I have been married to my wife, Martha, for 46 years and have two children and two grandsons. I have been involved with numerous civic organizations. I was the first Republican elected in Shelby County and have served as

1. What is your background? I am an optometrist and the founder and owner of Pelham Eye Care, a company I started in 1983. Since that time, the company has grown to employ three dozen people at three locations in our community. As a health care provider, I believe I am uniquely qualified to tackle the healthcare and Medicaid problems in our state. I have been

2. What is the biggest issue facing the state in the upcoming year? It is critical that we continue to pursue economic growth in Alabama. We need conservative Republicans who will fight to reduce burdensome government regulation and government spending so the private sector can do what it does best — create jobs. As a small business owner, I understand what it takes to create jobs

just the tip of the iceberg. It’s time for Alabama to push back forcefully against federal interference and provide bold, conservative Alabama ideas and solutions. 3.What is the biggest issue facing the 280 corridor in the upcoming year? Obamacare, Common Core and jobs. Obamacare means fewer jobs because of excessive expenses added to businesses. Common Core is untested; our children are too precious for experiments. Parents must have the right to choose the school that best meets their child’s needs.

2. What is the biggest issue facing the state in the upcoming year Our state’s funding is the biggest issue. Our economy and future depends on our children. Our children’s futures are not bargaining chips. Education must be funded. Local issues that demand attention include education, flooding, sewer cost and road projects.

Amie Beth Shaver

and grow our economy. I am also committed to fighting for our conservative values. 3. What is the biggest issue facing the 280 corridor in the upcoming year? We must have regional cooperation on the 280 corridor to achieve economic growth and save taxpayer money. One of the biggest challenges we have on the 280 corridor is that there are several municipalities and county governments that have jurisdiction. I will work with other members of the Shelby and Jefferson County delegations to encourage regional cooperation for the communities along Highway 280.

2. What is the biggest issue facing the state in the upcoming year? Washington, D.C. is the biggest issue. D.C. is the greatest barrier to job growth and raising our standard of living. Talk to any business owners throughout the state, and they will list a large number of laws and regulations that make job creation more difficult. Obamacare is

county commissioner, state representative and mayor. I am the only candidate with elected public experience. I am a hard-working, conservative, pro-life candidate.

Doug Clark married to my wife, Connie, for over 30 years, and we have two beautiful daughters, Dru and Skylar. My family and I have attended Riverchase Baptist Church for 23 years.

3. What is the biggest issue facing the 280 corridor in the upcoming year? Congestion on 280 continues to be the biggest issue facing this area. We need to continue to collaborate with the federal, state and local authorities towards the most viable solution.

Don Murphy

and hard-earned money, while liberal politicians attack our values. I will fight against such abuses of power! 3.What is the biggest issue facing the 280 corridor in the upcoming year? Traffic turn lanes on Highway 280 are only a temporary solution to our rapidly growing area. Conservative leadership in Alabama will continue to make our area one of the nation’s best to do business, and this will require a comprehensive approach to address our transportation needs.

our children into the hands of their parents, continuing to encourage trade school education and making sound investments of our tax dollars designed to attract prospective businesses.

Economic development and job creation are the biggest issues facing our state. We need to find ways to incentivize business development with the least government restrictions. I have seen hundreds of small to mid size local business fail in the last 10 years due to increased federal and state regulation. Our state can create jobs and economic development by maintaining low tax rates on businesses and families, focusing on returning the education of

Arnold Mooney

as search for incentives for businesses to locate and grow in the state.

Cheryl Ciamarra

1. What is your background? I am a speech language pathologist with a master’s degree in communication disorders and am the small business owner of Ciamarra Communication Consulting.

280 Living

achievement is my family. They’re the reason I am running for office.

1. What is your background? I am a conservative commentator, speaker and author. I’ve worked with the Alabama Policy Institute, served as spokeswoman for the grassroots organization Allied Women and been a radio personality on the “Leland Live” talk show. My husband and I are small business owners. However, my biggest

2. What is the biggest issue facing the state in the upcoming year? The economy continues to be our biggest challenge. Alabama has the lowest unemployment rate in the Southeast, but it needs to be even lower. Gov. Bentley has done an amazing job at bringing companies like Remington and Airbus to the state. I look forward to working with his team on opportunities for our region. Additionally, we need to give our small businesses the support they need to grow. Lastly, I will work with

the Alabama Tourism Department to promote our great state. 3. What is the biggest issue facing the 280 corridor in the upcoming year? Even with the recent changes on Highway 280, infrastructure continues to be a huge problem. The population of Shelby County continues to grow at a significant rate. The roadways, however, were never designed to accommodate so much traffic. For example, there are five schools on Highway 119, which cannot handle the current level of traffic volume. I will work with the local municipalities and ALDOT to bring relief to the area.

280Living.com

June 2014 â&#x20AC;˘ A21

A22 • June 2014

June 3 Republican Primary Candidate Guide

U.S. House of Representatives Alabama District 6 Scott Beason businesses over the years.

1. What is your background? I have been blessed to have served two terms in the Alabama House, and I am currently serving my second term in the Alabama Senate. I have a degree from The University of Alabama with a major in geology and a minor in English. I worked for a large corporation out of college and have owned multiple small

2. What is the biggest issue facing the state in the upcoming year and how would you address it? The biggest issue facing Alabama and the rest of the nation is how to get the economy on track and create jobs and opportunities for Americans. Elected officials on the federal level have done tremendous damage to the economy through over-regulation, faulty tax policy, overspending/burgeoning debt and Obamacare. The uncertainty caused by each of these factors must be alleviated. We must reduce regulation so that businesses can focus on operations. We

should eliminate the federal tax code and put in the Fair Tax. Last, but certainly not least, Obamacare has to be repealed and replaced. 3. What is the biggest issue facing the 280 corridor in the upcoming year and how would you address it? The biggest issue facing the 280 corridor is the same as the one facing the State of Alabama and the rest of the nation. That is how to improve the economy and create jobs and opportunities for Americans. That is the surface answer, but the underlying problem is that the country is steering away from its founding principles.

Will Brooke

1. What is your background? I grew up here and attended the University of Alabama where I received degrees in business and law. I have spent my entire career in Birmingham and am a businessman. I have worked at Harbert Management Corporation for nearly 25 years and am chairman of our real

estate services group and managing partner of our venture capital funds. I like solving problems and have created hundreds of jobs in the Sixth District. My wife, Maggie, and I have been married for 34 years and have three adult children. We love our state and have been active in our church and other charitable and civic activities, such as the Boys & Girls Clubs, United Way and McWane Center. 2. What is the biggest issue facing the state in the upcoming year? Why aren’t there any construction cranes on Birmingham’s

skyline? Economic development is essential to creating jobs and building a strong future for our city and state. That’s where I would focus. 3. What is the biggest issue facing the 280 corridor? The overpasses cannot handle the new turns! I am glad that ALDOT has taken first steps to address congestion and travel time, and now we need to finish the job. Highway Trust Fund investment is needed to get this done, and I will work with area leaders to make that happen.

Paul DeMarco

1. What is your background? My wife, Jacqueline, and I live in Homewood. I am a two-term state representative of House District 46, which includes portions of Homewood, Hoover, Mountain Brook and Vestavia Hills. I was born and raised in Alabama’s Sixth Congressional District. Jacqueline and I work here. We will raise our family here.

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2. What is the biggest issue facing the state in the upcoming year? Washington is broken. Washington’s problems threaten the future of each person in Alabama and the Sixth District. Out-of-control deficit spending, the damage done to families and employers by Obamacare and federal regulations that threaten small and big business alike must all be addressed. As your state representative, I have always worked to support our schools. I have worked with city leaders to improve infrastructure needs. That will continue when I go to Washington.

3. What is the biggest issue facing the 280 corridor in the upcoming year? The people of the 280 corridor want to continue to prosper. As your congressman, I will fight to protect small businesses from overreaching regulations that threaten jobs. I will support a balanced budget amendment. I will work to repeal Obamacare. We must focus on a limited government that helps rather than hinders the people. I will be a representative who stays connected to the people and provides Alabama solutions in Washington rather than Washington values for Alabama.

Chad Mathis

1. What is your background? I’m a doctor and small business owner here in Birmingham. I’m typically asked on the campaign trail, “Why would a surgeon want to run for Congress?”, and I tell them it’s because I’m worried we are losing the American dream. I was the first in my

family to graduate college and worked in the same factory as my father to pay for that education. Hard work and sacrifice enabled me to earn my version of the American dream, but that dream is no longer attainable for many Alabamians. 2/3. What is the biggest issue facing our state and the 280 corridor in the upcoming year? For the first time in a long time, the biggest issue facing our nation is the biggest issue we face here in both Alabama and on the 280 corridor. The

ill effects of Obamacare are no longer reserved to an evening newscast or the headlines of a newspaper, but in fact are something affecting our families, friends and neighbors on a daily basis. That’s why I have developed a 12-point plan to repeal and replace Obamacare with patient-centered, market-driven reforms. I hope you will join me in this fight to give healthcare back to the patient, opportunity back to small business, and help keep that American dream alive for hardworking Alabamians.

Gary Palmer

1. What is your background? I’ve worked for small business, two major engineering companies and, for the last 24 years, led the Alabama Policy Institute, a public policy think tank ranked as Alabama’s most influential conservative group. 2. What is the biggest issue facing the state in the upcoming year?

There are two huge issues: the impact of Obamacare on businesses and continued high unemployment. Congress must repeal Obamacare and replace it with a patient-centered, market-based plan that puts people in charge of their health care decisions, establishes a national insurance pool for people who can’t get insurance or can’t afford it, and that eliminates the economic uncertainties faced by businesses. With 1 of 6 men age 25-54 unemployed, Congress should utilize our vast God-given energy resources to create jobs and stimulate the economy. In one shale formation out West alone

there are 3 trillion barrels of recoverable oil — three times what the entire world has used in 100 years — and the federal government owns almost 80 percent of it. The abundance of natural gas has resulted in cheaper energy that is driving a manufacturing boom that is benefiting Alabama. 3. What is the biggest issue facing the 280 corridor in the upcoming year? The need for infrastructure improvements related to the relocation of Trinity Medical Center and further development of Patchwork Farms that can be addressed by assisting the state with federal highway funds.

Robert Shattuck

1. What is your background? I am a retired lawyer. 2. What is the biggest issue facing the state in the upcoming year and how would you address it? My biggest issue, which

affects Alabama and all the states, is that Congress is kaput and unable to do its job for the American people, and government has failed us. I link that failure to the influence of money in politics. Congress will not, on its own, fix this, and only the people can force the necessary changes to be made. My idea is for Alabama, on June 3, to become a spearhead for an uprising of voters around the country. This will make the 2014 elections a linchpin whereby the incumbent Congress is forced by

the voters to agree on a grand reform plan prior to election day in November. If the voters think that Congress, and their representatives and senators, have done a credible job in the grand reform plan that Congress proposes, that can be a significant reason for voters to vote for their incumbents. If Congress is not able to agree on a grand reform plan before election day, or if the voters think the plan proposed does not do enough for change, that would be a reason to vote against incumbents.

Tom Vigneulle

1. What is your background? I come from a background of service. My father was Dr. Richard (Dick) Vigneulle. He was the executive vice president of City Federal Savings & Loan and president of Service Corporation. He

later answered the call to the ministry, becoming the founding pastor of Shades Mountain Independent Church in Hoover. I also learned from him the value of hard work and commitment. Two years after marrying my wife Ginger, we started our own business in Pelham, Royal Bedding Manufacturing, Inc., in August of 1987. Since that time, I have mastered the bedding industry and learned the challenges of owning a small business. For 26 years, I have had to balance a budget and make hard

decisions on spending priorities. I also know what it’s like to face federal regulations on a daily basis. As a small business owner, it hasn’t always been easy, but the values my father instilled me has allowed us to persevere and live out the American dream. And it’s that dream that I feel is under attack and is the reason I am running. My wife and I also own a family cattle farm in Wilsonville and are members of the Cattlemen’s Association of Alabama.

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Opinion Life Actually By Kari Kampakis

How can I make them want me? Recently, I met a girl who shared with me a time that she’d been left out by friends. It happened at school and started with a club her friends created. The club had its own rules, and when she overheard some girls in her class talking about it, she asked if she could join. “Sure,” they replied, and with that she was a member. Later that day, however, she overhead the mastermind behind the club — one of her best friends — telling the girls who invited her in to pretend the club didn’t exist anymore. For whatever reason, the club creator didn’t want her friend to be part of this group, so she hatched a plan to continue it in secret. As you can imagine, this girl was hurt. While she didn’t reveal what she’d overheard, she spent the rest of the day dwelling on the events and feeling confused. Why would her friend intentionally lock her out? What was the point? The more she thought about it, the more she questioned herself. She initially wondered, “Have I done something to make my friend mad at me? Am I not being a good friend? How can I be a better friend?” After giving it serious thought, she was still short on solutions. She couldn’t come up with a reason why her friend might react that way or what she could have done differently. At this point, her thoughts changed. She now wondered how she could

gain acceptance from the club. Her overriding question was, “How can I make them want me?” As she admitted to me the ideas that crossed her mind, she laughed at herself. Her wish to be more popular and desirable prompted her to consider scenarios like: Should I buy cooler clothes? Should I change my look? Should I be more social? Should I talk more and not be as shy? She exhausted herself in search of answers. At last, she reached a pivotal conclusion, ultimately deciding this: “If I haven’t done anything wrong or mean to make them act that way, then I don’t need to change. What happened wasn’t my fault, so I don’t need to do anything differently.” I share this story because it’s relevant to everyone. Young and old, we all know what it’s like to be excluded. We’ve all questioned ourselves as a result. We’ve all experienced the heart-sinking disappointment of having a friend go behind our back. Sometimes it’s due to jealousy. Sometimes it’s ignorance. Sometimes it’s immaturity and the fact that people get hurt as everyone learns what, exactly, a true friendship entails. In any case, it’s important to keep a clear head. It’s important to understand, as this girl did, whether change is necessary on our end. Rejection makes it very tempting to transform ourselves to gain approval. And

while that may secure our spot in a club, it can distance us from who God designed us to be. It can conform us to the ways of the world and make us lose touch with our unique identity in Christ. The term for this is “people-pleasing.” And according to Rick Warren, author of the bestselling book The Purpose-Driven Life, peoplepleasing is one of the greatest barriers that keeps us from living out our life purpose. It’s such an issue today, in fact, that he added a chapter on people-pleasing in the newest edition of The Purpose-Driven Life. “There is nothing wrong with our desire to be accepted, appreciated, and approved by other people,” Warren writes. “In fact, without the affirmation of others we never fully blossom into our full potential. But as with all of the healthy and good desires God puts in our hearts, the desire for approval can be misused, abused and confused. It can become an obsession that dominates our life and a fear that destroys our soul.” I admire how this girl figured out that blaming herself for her friend’s rejection was the wrong assumption. I like how she overcame the question we’ve all asked ourselves — “How can I make them want me?” — with truth and logic. She has since moved on and forgiven her friend, so all is good. And what the experience taught her is to trust her instincts and know that she is enough just the way she is. Trying to be

more desirable or popular is a misuse of time. We all face rejection. And while some rejection opens our eyes to what we should improve upon, there is also rejection that has nothing to do with us. It reflects the other person’s flaws, not ours. To evaluate a situation, we need wisdom and courage — wisdom to help us discern our role (if any) and courage to preserve who we are and not change for the wrong reasons. It’s a personal choice how far we walk down the “How can I make them want me?” road. When traveling this path, we live in self-doubt. We rack our brain for answers and ask questions that fuel our anxiety. But as this girl shows, there is a solution, and that is to turn our thoughts around and find peace with who we are. If a young mind can draw this conclusion, surely an adult mind can, too. Surely we can all keep our need for approval in perspective and make sure that any changes we make add value to our lives, enrich our relationships and draw us closer to the person we’re meant to be. Kari Kubiszyn Kampakis is a Birmingham mom of four girls, a columnist and a blogger for The Huffington Post. Join her Facebook community at “Kari Kampakis, Writer” or find her on Twitter, Instagram and Pinterest. Find her personal blog at karikampakis.com or contact her at kari@karikampakis.com.

280Living.com

My South By Rick Watson

Driver’s license Jilda and I went out of yielding, page 61 of the manual town recently, and one estabsays that “when two vehicles enter an intersection not conlishment needed to check our trolled by signs or signals at identification. She dug through her purse approximately the same time, (I call it a duffle bag) and then the vehicle on the left yields to handed the woman her driver’s the vehicle on the right.” While license. The woman rubbed her that probably holds true to city thumb over the date to make folk, living in the country has sure she read it right and then taught us that the truck with the said, “You don’t look 62.” Jilda largest tires has the right of way beamed and blushed a little. As no matter when it arrives. she handed the license back she There is also language in Watson said, “You realize they expire the manual now about texting at the end of the month.” This was on the 27th. and using cell phones. While the law doesn’t When Jilda took the license back, she forbid talking on the phone, it lists several looked at it to make sure the woman hadn’t precautions you should take. made a mistake. She hadn’t. It is against the law to text, chat or send Had the lady not caught the impending emails while driving. Should you get caught expiration, Jilda would probably have had to texting, the fine for the first offense is $25. I take the driver and road test again. snorted when I read this. Twenty-five dollars I immediately pulled my license out of my is a few Starbucks lattes. The second offence pocket to check the date. I don’t cherish the is $50, and the third is $75. thought of retaking the test until I absolutely With all the accidents caused by texting, have to. I was thinking more on the lines of having a I think the tests were easier back in the finger lashed off with a set of tree pruners. The 60s when I took it. I went on Jan. 16, 1967. second and third offenses should cost a hand My birthday is on Jan. 15, but that was Super and an arm respectively. Bowl Sunday and the Green Bay Packers I know my justice sounds a bit harsh, but I were playing the Kansas City Chiefs. So I think it would serve the greater good. had to go the next day. Anyhow, we arose early the next morning, I breezed through both the written and the had hasty coffee and got ready to head out to road test. the courthouse. Back then if you got the state trooper back Jilda dolled up because she wanted to make to the courthouse without running down sure she looked good on the license photo. pedestrians, clipping any cars or forcing him I also put a reminder on my iPhone so I to take a slug out of the vodka from the flask would know well in advance when my license in his back pocket, you passed. expires. The Alabama Driver’s Manual has changed Rick Watson is a columnist and author. over the years as well, but I’ve always viewed His latest book, Life Happens, is available the manual as suggestions and not hard and on amazon.com. Contact him at rick@ fast rules. For example, when it comes to rickwatsonmedia.com.

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ROBOTICS

CONTINUED from page A1 shop at Oak Mountain Middle School. The shop instructor retired heading into the 2012-2013 school year, leaving the saws silent and the desks empty. Remaining in the room were a giant fish tank and two computers, a wideopen space and a few tools. It wasn’t much to start with for the robotics program. That is, until James Salvant agreed to take it over. Salvant, a self-professed tinkerer who holds a degree in mathematics, introduced Project Lead the Way, the nation’s leading STEM — science, technology, engineering and math — curriculum. Shortly after, he helped transform the old shop into a 21st-century learning environment. “We wanted to do something totally different,” Salvant said. “Something that nobody else was doing.” Through the Shelby County College and Career Center, the school has spent about $50,000 recreating the woodshop. It’s now home to about 50 of the county’s most powerful engineering computers and, in one corner of the room, a full practice area for VEX Robotics competitions. The lab has the capability to teach students 3D modeling using the same programs Mercedes-Benz uses to design cars. It can teach not only coding but also automation, and after three years in the program students are capable of building cars, robots, kites and even buildings. “I’ve learned a lot about coding,” Garrett said. “I’d like to learn C (a popular computer programming language) over the summer. And I can. Because of robotics, my parents bought me computer.” It’s a testament to how far these students have come. At the beginning of the 2012-2013 school year, Omar, Garrett, Jadon and Ryan were seventh-grade students without experience. A semester went by before they even built their first robot. And when they finally got it together in January 2013, it didn’t really meet their expectations. “Their first competition was a disaster,” Salvant said. “We took a pusher bot and a claw bot, and they got destroyed. They didn’t really like that too much. So afterward they really picked

Oak Mountain Middle School robotics has set a $10,000 fundraising goal for its trip to the VEX National Competition, scheduled for June 27-July 1 in Washington, D.C. During the VEX State Competition in April, OMMS earned two of only three spots afforded to teams from Alabama and want to use both. The team has been holding ice cream sales at the school and bake sales outside of it to gather funds, but welcomes corporate sponsors.

Robotics team members use their engineering skills to put designs on paper before building. They carry notebooks with them full of 3-D drawings and wiring diagrams.

it up.” By April 2013, Team Blunderbuss had two new robots ready for the state competition — if you can call it that. These inexperienced tinkerers proved to Alabama they weren’t messing around. They crushed the field. “It was a thorough domination,” Salvant said. Two months later, the team was in Florida for VEX Nationals, and their fourth-place finish there led to more funding for the program. When the team retuned to the lab as eighthgrade students at the beginning of this year, they had all the resources they needed for a repeat performance. So far in the 2013-2014 year, OMMS robotics

students have designed and built 10 competitive robots. Each is named something fun like Scorpion, Skippy, Zeus or Pinnacle. Heading to this year’s nationals though are Thing1 and Thing 2, essentially identical robots based on a full year of tweaking designs. But while the team is confident in its chances this month, it’s not sure about what happens next year. When the students move to ninth grade, they won’t be able to spend three to four hours a day in the lab. Worse, there isn’t an official robotics program at Oak Mountain High School. Salvant said his plan, adding that it’s mostly a sure thing at this point, is to sponsor the

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For more, email sponsor James Salvant at jsalvant@shelbyed.k12.al.us.

high school team and run it out of the middle school lab. “I’ve already fostered these students for a couple years,” he said. “That would be such a waste not to help them keep growing.” Salvant said he plans to have the high school team come back to the OMMS lab once a week after school, where they can both build their robots and mentor younger students. “We’re in the process, and it’s looking like it’s going to happen,” he said. For a team that started with nothing and within a year worked its way to fourth in the nation, confidence abounds.

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June 2014 • A27

Trinity Medical CEO Keith Granger overlooks the area outside the new hospital on U.S. 280, which is on track to open in two years. Photo by Jeff Thompson.

TRINITY

CONTINUED from page A1 Brasfield & Gorrie, working with A.G. Gaston Construction, targeted these two structures first because they would take the longest to complete. Brasfield & Gorrie served as general contractor on the hospital’s original construction more than 10 years ago. “Construction has moved along exceptionally well,” Granger said. “Soon from Highway 280 you’ll be able to see some of the vertical appear for the new deck and building.” On May 17, 2013, the Supreme Court of Alabama denied requests by Brookwood Medical Center and St. Vincent’s Hospital to continue arguments against Trinity Medical Center’s relocation. Construction on Grandview Medical began later that summer, Granger said, starting with excavation for the new parking deck. “Approximately 90,000 cubic yards of rock had to be removed — dynamited out,” Granger said. “Once that occurred, crews started pouring slabs for the foundation. They’re now approaching their

fifth level of slab for the parking deck.” Granger said from the back of the facility, passersby should be able to identify five levels of the new parking deck. The primary hospital facility, of which a significant portion is ready for occupation, has seen only small amounts of work since Trinity Medical was given the go-ahead. Some patient rooms and parts of the intensive care unit are complete. However, much of the structure is only framed and will need extensive work. “The actual hospital construction will be more substantial in the coming months,” Granger said. “The timeline for the overall project required construction to focus first on the deck and physicians’ building.” Granger said that while the target opening date is in the first quarter of 2016, he anticipates the hospital will be complete several months prior. During that window, Trinity Medical staff will prepare for the transition to the new facility by checking equipment, training employees and orienting staff with the new layout. On other parts of the campus, Daniel Corp. continues its development of

Construction is underway at Grandview Medical Center on U.S. 280. Photo by Jessa Pease.

additional facilities, Granger said. Daniel Corp. indicated previously that its longrange plans for the complex included growing the campus to include hotels, retail and even a residential section over the next two decades. The overall economic impact of fully developing the campus was estimated at more than $881 million according to a 2008 study by economist Keivan Deravi, a professor at Auburn University of Montgomery. Deravi predicted activities related to the first year of construction and operations are expected to generate approximately 4,000 jobs, $126 million in job earnings and more than $3.1 million in tax revenues. Granger said there’s a buzz from 280 residents about Grandview Medical Center as construction continues, aided by the sight of tower cranes and workmen at the site. “They can see the economic stimulus coming to life,” he said. “This is a real live project. It’s no longer something to talk about if it will happen, but when it will happen.”

About Grandview Medical Center • 372 rooms • 72 intensive care unit beds • Surgical services that will house up to 30 surgical suites • 11 floors to be completed in hospital (with one floor shelled) • 22 rooms in emergency department • Emergency department adjacent to recovery area (designed to handle mass casualty event and overflow) • On site heliport • 1 million square feet in hospital

Grandview Medical Center parking deck and medical office center • 1 million square feet in parking deck • 3,000 parking spaces • 220,000 square feet in office building • Offices will be eight stories on top of the parking deck

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neighborly news & entertainment

SECTION

June 2014 • B1

157 Resource Center Parkway Suite 102

Events B1 Sports B16 School House B14 Calendar B20

Behind Logan’s Roadhouse on 280 Your source for teams sports

205-981-0291

Party like a fitness star St. Vincent’s Block Party and Health Festival returns By JEFF THOMPSON This month, there’s only one place in town to take in live music and watch a canine relay team while taking care of your health by meeting with local physicians and receiving numerous screenings. The St. Vincent’s One Nineteen Block Party and Health Festival is scheduled for Saturday, June 21, from 5-8 p.m., rain or shine. This year’s family friendly festival promises a fun atmosphere with live music and activities for children, but at its heart remains the mission of St. Vincent’s to serve its community. “At St. Vincent’s One Nineteen, we offer the convenience of physicians, diagnostics, physical therapy, a premier fitness facility, a spa and wellness services all in one location,” said Lauren Nichols, marketing and communications integration manager for St. Vincent’s One Nineteen. “Our annual block party gives us the opportunity to thank the community for their support with a night of fun but most importantly offer vital screenings to help create a healthier community.” The following free health screenings will be offered at the event: cholesterol, blood sugar, blood pressure, vision, hearing, skin cancer, physical therapy assessments and foot analysis.

Residents of the U.S. 280 area participate in a spin bike introduction at a recent St. Vincent’s One Nineteen Block Party and Health Festival. Photos by Freddy Beeson, courtesy of St. Vincent’s One Nineteen.

Nichols said health professionals will be on-site to interpret results. In addition, the event will debut the facility’s brand new sports performance program, which utilizes a highly skilled former collegiate

strength and conditioning coach to teach young athletes to excel in all sports. The program kicks off this June with Speed School for youth ages 7 to 17. Other activities include free chair massages

from Spa One Nineteen and the opportunity to visit healthy information booths from local organizations and physician offices. And don’t forget about the inflatable colon. The walk-through educational tool will be set up to teach attendees about the importance of colorectal screening. The event includes a wide range of activities for children, including a moonwalk, rock climbing wall, face painting and balloon art. In addition, the Hoover Police Department is landing its helicopter on site, weather permitting. Live music is also on this year’s schedule with the Rock Candy Band. Other highlights include a demonstration from the Flyball Dogs as well as free Zumba, hula hoop and Spinning introductions. “At St. Vincent’s One Nineteen, it is our goal and mission to build a healthier community,” said Stephanie Holderby, executive director of St. Vincent’s One Nineteen and vice president of operations for the St. Vincent’s Ambulatory Healthcare Network. “The Block Party and Health Festival, along with our monthly educational seminars and physician lectures, provide us with the opportunity to promote real and total health.” For more information about the Block Party and Health Festival, call 408-6600 or visit onenineteen.com.

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June 2014 • B3

Strengthening faith through story Mt Laurel church to host storytelling event By JEFF THOMPSON In her Florida home, Chelsea Reynolds was lying on the couch watching television. It had been two years since her diagnosis, and while she had seen progress in regaining some use of her legs, the fear was constant that the paralysis would creep slowly upward into her arms. Worse still, it could enter her lungs. In the next room, her mother, Candace Reynolds, was reading the Gospel of John, specifically the story of Lazarus in Chapter 11. Lazarus was beloved by Jesus, and when Lazarus died Jesus wept for him. In verse 4, Jesus said, “This illness is not to end in death, but is for the glory of God, that the Son of God may be glorified through it.” She called out, “Chelsea, did you ever wonder if God loves you or why he has allowed you to suffer through this?” “I’ve never felt like he didn’t love me,” Chelsea replied. Last year, from the podium of Double Oak Community Church in Mt Laurel, Candace told the story of her family’s trials during A Night of Story and Song, an event launched by the church to reveal how the power of God has worked in the lives of those who sit quietly in the pews on Sunday. Slated this year for June 18, event organizers said they think the event provides a powerful look at the promises of the Bible from people who know them best, people like Candace and Chelsea Reynolds. Chelsea’s journey For the Reynolds family, it all started with a tingle. When she was 15 years old, Chelsea Reynolds found success in almost anything. She made good grades, starred on her school’s golf team and took on lead roles in school plays. But with almost no warning, a tingle in her toes turned to numbness in her feet. And in the blink of an

A Night of Story and Song Double Oak Community Church • Mt Laurel June 18 • 6 p.m. doubleoakcc.org During 2013’s A Night of Story and Song, Double Oak Community Church member and Highland Lakes resident Candace Reynolds told the story of her daughter’s trials overcoming a rare disorder. Candace is pictured with her daughter, Chelsea. Photo courtesy of Candace Reynolds.

eye, Chelsea was paralyzed from the waist down. “In six weeks, she went from being a healthy, happy teenager to being in a wheelchair, and we didn’t have any reason why,” Candace said. For months, doctors struck out in search of a diagnosis but came back with nothing to offer the family. With no explanation, there was no treatment. Chelsea was told numerous times that if she walked again, it would be with leg braces. And her chances of swinging a golf club or starring in a musical again were nonexistent. So, for Christmas that first year, Chelsea made a request. With her mother leaned over her hospital bed, Chelsea asked for a specific gift — a new driver. Her mother couldn’t talk her out of it. “I purchased that golf club with tears running down my face,” Candace said. “It was the most difficult purchase I’ve ever made in my entire life.” In the coming months, Chelsea refused to give up on walking. Candace said Chelsea dragged herself up the stairs at night and got in to bed

on her own. Chelsea went to school with a walker for a short time until she collapsed in the hall. From then on, she stayed home, and while trapped in her house the family finally found out what was happening to their daughter. Guillain-Barre Syndrome is an autoimmune disorder that attacks the body’s nervous system. According to the National Institute of Health, symptoms can occur suddenly and the body can be completely, permanently paralyzed within days. Recovery is possible — even probable — but it can take years. “God impressed on me this would not be a quick fix,” Candace said. “How gracious of him to prepare a mother’s heart.” Four years later, following daily treatments and therapy and two relapses of her paralysis, Chelsea picked up the driver her mother bought her for Christmas. She shot a 39 on the first 9 holes. She went on to win several tournaments and was ranked in the top 20 high school golfers

in Florida. Chelsea’s specialist released her in 2006, and in 2010 she graduated from Samford University with a degree in musical theater. She since played the lead in several shows that required her to both sing and dance. “The story of Lazarus would come about so God’s son would be glorified through it,” Candace said. “We had to wait our three days of healing, however long that was.” Telling the story Candace said when she started her family’s tale during the inaugural A Night of Story and Song in 2013, members of the audience weren’t sure how it would end. But when she finished, Chelsea ran to the stage from the back of the audience and picked up the microphone to sing the song “Healing in Your Hands.” “We want to have people in the church really hear more stories from people who attend,” Candace said. “Most stories give a little background about what God did through their challenges. Everyone has different circumstances, and these stories show how their faith increased through them.” Double Oak Pastor of Discipleship Frank Patrick said Candace was the event’s crescendo speaker in 2013, selected because her story featured both struggle and triumph. He said the church realizes not every story ends with the victory people want, but that’s not what’s important. “People in the audience realize that, just like them, those who tell these stories had a community by their side through the process and that God is faithful,” Patrick said. “No matter who you are, you can come to this and say, ‘I understand. That makes sense.’” This year’s A Night of Story and Song will be held at Double Oak Community Church on June 18 at 6 p.m. Patrick said the event features seven speakers in five sessions and will last about 90 minutes. For more, visit doubleoakcc.org

Dorm Season Has Arrived!

2832 Culverr Rd • 8879.8278 79 8278 • Mon. - Sat

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280 Living

JuneEvents Area farmers markets

The Mt Laurel Farmers Market features produce as well as crafts.

With the help of three farmers markets across the area throughout the summer season, 280 residents will be able to find fresh, local foods to use in their kitchens. Urban Cookhouse, Mt Laurel and Valleydale farmers markets provide wares from local farmers. Each market will feature an average of 20 to 25 vendors each week. In addition to fresh produce, Mt Laurel’s market doubles as a craft fair with 35 craft vendors each weekend.

Urban Cookhouse Farmers Market Thursdays · 2-6 p.m. The Summit 214 Summit Blvd., Suite 102 urbancookhouse.com/farmers-markets

Mt Laurel Farmers Market and Craft Fair Saturdays · 8 a.m.-noon 38 Manning Place mtlaurel.com

Valleydale Farmers Market Saturdays · 8 a.m.-noon Faith Presbyterian Church 4601 Valleydale Road valleydalefarmersmarket.com

Memory Lights: A Walk to Remember June 14 · 5:30 p.m. Heardmont Park communitygriefsupport.org or 870-8667

Community Grief Support Service, an organization dedicated to helping adults dealing with the loss of a loved one, plans to host Memory Lights: A Walk to Remember at Heardmont Park on June 14 to honor people who have died. The mile of walking trails at Heardmont Park will be lit for evening walking beginning at 5:30 p.m. This is meant to be a time for meditating and reflecting

and remembering those loved and lost whether it be a parent, spouse, child, sibling, friend or pet. This is a child- and dog-friendly walk. The walk will end at the Play Meadow, where there will be music, a moon jump and food trucks. At 7:30 p.m., there will be a memorial moment, honoring lost loved ones ending with a release of hundreds of large white, lit helium balloons with specially prepared or

personalized prayers attached. The cost to walk is $25 and covers the cost of giveaways and a T-shirt for every participant. The cost per balloon for the memory lights release is $20 and goes to fund free grief counseling and support groups offered by Community Grief Support Service to all bereaved adults in the seven-county Birmingham area. —Submitted by Lisa Harrison

280Living.com

June 2014 • B5

JuneEvents

Know More Orphans 5K Young participants take off for the finish line at last year’s Know More Orphans 5K. Photo courtesy of Johnny Grimes.

June 7 · 8 a.m. Veterans Park 222-2442

With the help of Northwestern Mutual, Altar84 is hosting its second annual Know More Orphans 5K at Veterans Park on June 7 to benefit the organization. The 5K registrations will begin at 6:30 a.m., and the race will

begin at 8 a.m. A 1-mile family fun run will begin at 9 a.m. Founded in 2011, Altar84 formed with the mission to help orphans locally and globally by providing care and finding adoptive homes.

The nonprofit ministry’s efforts are a combined strategy of action and faith, seeking to alter the lives of orphans through resources and a strong belief in God. Along with the race, there will be

awards, snow cones, popcorn, live music and door prizes. Registration before the day is $30, and registration on the day of the event is $35. For more information, visit altar84.org or call Jen Batson at 222-2442.

Free Friday Flicks Fridays · Dusk Veterans Park hooveral.org

Free Friday Flicks are back at Veterans Park this summer with a new lineup. Films start at dusk. Come early to visit vendors, get food and enjoy fun activities. All films are rated PG. For more, visit hooveral.org.

May 30: Planes June 6: Mr. Peabody & Sherman June 13: Frozen June 20: Monsters University June 27: Free Birds

July 11: The Croods July 18: Despicable Me 2 July 25: The Lego Movie Aug. 1: Rain date

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280 Living

Buell E. Cobb, longtime chairman of the National Convention, now serves as finance chairman. He is author of “The Sacred Harp: A Tradition and Its Music.” Photo courtesy Martha Beverly, Kalamazoo, Mich.

Mary Whitehurst, a Sacred Harp singer from Panama City, Fla., participates in the 2013 Sacred Harp Singing Convention. Photo courtesy Martha Beverly, Kalamazoo, Mich.

Warren Steel, professor of music at the University of Mississippi, has attended every national convention since 1980. Photo courtesy Martha Beverly, Kalamazoo, Mich.

Sacred Harp singers return for 35th year By JEFF THOMPSON This month, more than 500 Sacred Harp singers from more than 20 states will converge in the 280 area, and amongst the crowd will be Gaston White. White is an engineer by trade, but he has a history with classical choral singing. For more than 20 years, he used some of his free time leading a choir in the area. With the rest, he harmonized with his wife — a trained soprano soloist and choral professor at Samford University for more than 25 years. White’s wife passed in 1997, and White began to look for an outlet. In 1980, he and his wife were introduced to the National Sacred Harp Singing Convention in Birmingham. Eighteen years later, in 1998, he found it again, and it’s been a part of his life ever since. From June 12-14, the 35th annual National Sacred Harp Singing Convention will be held at

National Sacred Harp Singing Convention June 12-14 • 9:30 a.m.-2:30 p.m. First Christian Church

olemiss.edu, search “Sacred Harp Singing Convention” First Christian Church, 4954 Valleydale Road. In years past, the event has welcomed up to 600 attendees who filter in and out over the course of the three days. Some come from down the road; others as far as the United Kingdom. Sacred Harp gets its name from the Sacred Harp Hymnal, which was originally published in 1844. White said its roots — a style called shape-note singing — can be traced back further to Colonial Americans and composer William Billings, regarded as the first American choral composer. The style of Sacred Harp is reverberating a

cappella in four-part harmony that White said is more of a participation event than a performance. “You just have to completely shift gears,” White said of those new to the style. “You’ll sing a song through once, and for the first time through it sounds maybe like we’re speaking in tongues.” For the convention, singers divide into groups of bass, tenor, treble and alto. A part of the church will be arranged into the “Hollow Square,” setting up pews and chairs to face opposite one another. Imagine a tiny version of Bryant-Denny or Jordan-Hare stadiums.

From there, one at a time, an individual will move to the center of the square and lead a song of his or her choosing. Popular picks include “All Hail the Power of Jesus’ Name,” “Jesus, Lover of My Soul” and “Amazing Grace.” Participants come and go throughout the day, but the music lasts from 9 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. for three days straight, only pausing to either let singers catch their breath or grab some lunch. White said it’s a welcoming atmosphere that people connect with quickly — even if they have no experience with the hymnal. “Sure, most are unfamiliar,” he said. “But we always tell them not to worry about the notes. We’re going to stumble all over those anyway. “Just sing ‘la la la’ and you’ll be right 30 percent of the time.” The event is open to the public, and White said all are welcome to both watch and participate. For more, visit olemiss.edu and search “Sacred Harp Singing Convention.”

280Living.com

June 2014 • B7

Oak Mountain’s James Vance rocking and rolling along with Giants and Toys By MICHAEL SEALE Aspiring to be a part of a rock and roll band is not uncommon among youngsters. Few people get to achieve that dream, but for James Vance, that dream has become reality. Vance, who graduated from Oak Mountain High School in 2008, is the bass player for the band Giants and Toys. The band — Vance along with other members Michael Messina (guitar, lead vocals), Jack Kish (guitar, keys), Chris Estes (drums) and John Nicholson (guitar, keys) — has been riding a tremendous amount of momentum into the summer as they prepare to record a new album. The band’s songs have seen a steady amount of airplay locally, namely on Birmingham Mountain Radio, 107.3 FM. Giants and Toys will play June 14 at the third annual Southbound Music Festival at Avondale Brewing Co., which drew about 1,000 people last summer. The inclusion into the festival was based on the band’s popularity among the listeners to local radio. The festival begins at 2 p.m. and lasts until midnight, and all-day passes can be purchased at the door for $10. Giants and Toys are one of 13 bands playing the festival, and their set begins at 3:30 p.m. But Vance said his musical journey has not been a short one. “I have been playing music pretty much my whole life,” he said. “I started playing piano when I was really young, then took violin lessons for a while. When I got into sixth grade, I started playing French horn in band then picked up the trumpet.” Vance said he started getting serious about music while at Oak Mountain High School, where he played more instruments and branched out more musically. “Later in high school I started playing guitar, and I was playing trumpet

See them perform What: Southbound Music Festival, featuring 13 bands When: June 14; Giants and Toys’ set should begin at 3:30 p.m. Where: Avondale Brewing Co., 201 41st St. S., Birmingham 35222 Cost: $10 for an all-day pass

Giants and Toys members are, from left, James Vance, Jack Kish, Chris Estes, Michael Messina and John Nicholson. Photo courtesy of Michael Messina.

in a couple of ska bands.” He said he knew he wanted to pursue music further. Vance enrolled at the University of Montevallo, where he studied music education, and that was where he started playing bass guitar and met the other members of Giants and Toys. “Mike and Chris and Jack all went to Montevallo High School,” Vance said. “When John and I got to Montevallo, we joined (the fraternity) Lambda Chi Alpha, where we met Mike and Chris.” “The initial incarnation of Giants and Toys

began some time around our freshman year in college in 2008. However, we really did not start seriously playing shows until early 2010, playing mainly in Montevallo,” Messina said. “The lineup as it is now has been together since summer 2011. We have played shows in Birmingham, Montevallo, Tuscaloosa, Decatur and Mobile to name some.” Giants and Toys’ previous self-titled EP (also called “The Strand EP”) was recorded in Athens, Ga., at Chase Park Transduction, and the album quickly became popular among

Visit them online giantsandtoys.com

Montevallo students. Messina said the experience was a rewarding one. “We spent three days tracking and mixing five songs,” he said. “We had a blast recording in Athens.” Messina said the band is currently back in the songwriting process and plans to record an album this summer. They plan to try to produce the album themselves. “Currently, we are writing new music and in the early stages of recording those songs ourselves. We want to explore the recording process in a different way this time around,” Messina said.

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B8 • June 2014

280 Living

A national spotlight SPHS’ Powell to represent Alabama at Distinguished Young Women National Finals this month By JEFF THOMPSON This month, Spain Park High’s Madeline Powell will represent Alabama at the Distinguished Young Women National Finals. The scholarship program will welcome Madeline and representatives from other states to engage in community service and team development for two weeks in Mobile leading up to the finals on June 26-28. During the event, participants will compete for part of more than $130,000 in cash scholarships and the title of Distinguished Young Woman of America. Madeline won the Shelby County competition in 2013, earning $6,100 of the $19,000 the organization presented in scholarships. As Distinguished Young Woman of Alabama, she also received in-kind scholarships from all universities in the state that will cover the cost of her tuition wherever she chooses to attend. 280 Living caught up with Madeline during her preparations for the state finals to learn a little more about her feelings on the program, her expectations for the event and her favorite things about 280.

Q A

What did it feel like to be named the state’s Distinguished Young Woman? Being named Alabama’s DYW was indescribably wonderful. I respect

and admire everything that the Distinguished Young Woman program stands for and encourages in girls, and it is an honor I am so humbled and proud to have received. The biggest rush came when they announced my name and I was immediately hugged and congratulated by some of my closest friends I had made while at State. It felt amazing to know I had the support of the girls I had not just competed with but who I had become best friends with. It was a culminating moment for me because the work begins months or years before and then it is all over in one night and decided in one single moment. After competing in talent, physical fitness, self-expression, interview and having my scholastics evaluated, it was incredibly rewarding to be given the title.

Q A

Who were some of the most influential people in getting you to this point? I have a very long list of people who have helped and supported me to this point in my life. My sister, Melissa, is my biggest supporter. She understands my passion for the program and is always there to encourage me to do my best. My sister-in-law, Norma, has been a huge help to me as I prepare for the program. She participated in the program, and I trust her opinions and advice implicitly. My best friend, Susanna, is a large part of why I decided to participate in the DYW program.

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280Living.com Seeing how the program helped her to grow and watching the journey it took her on encouraged me to participate.

Q A

How have you been able to affect positive change since earning the title? Since earning the title, I have participated in the national Be Your Best Self week. Be Your Best Self is the outreach program of the DYW program, and it focuses on encouraging young people to be healthy, ambitious, involved, responsible and studious. I got the chance to talk to more than 200 students about this program at my dance studio and two locations of the A.G. Gaston Boys and Girls Club. I talked to the kids about the elements of the program and then taught them a small fitness routine. I could see clearly on their faces how excited they were to get up and move and to learn the routine. It gave me so much joy to see them excited about learning the routine and taking part in the program. Their interest and attention to the presentation proved to me that the Distinguished Young Women all over the country, sharing the elements of the Be Your Best Self program, can really make a difference.

Q A

What do you expect the experience to be like at the national competition? I was truly blessed with my experience at the state level and can only imagine the national program being a larger, more exciting version of the Alabama program. The state program introduced me to a very diverse group of young women who each brought a little something different from their part of the state. I am so excited to meet and get to know young women from every state. I plan on it being an overwhelming experience, but I think I can only benefit. I look forward to being overwhelmed at the national DYW program and plan to soak up everything I can.

Q A

If you’re named the national winner, what would be your first campaign? If I should win the national title, I would look forward to a bigger platform to promote the Distinguished Young Woman

June 2014 • B9 program in its entirety. This program provides so much scholarship money to young girls who are driven to succeed. This scholarship money can be life changing and allows for some girls to get a college education they otherwise would not have had the opportunity to get. I want to get the word out about this program so that it can impact as many young girls’ lives as possible.

How will you be able to help people using the state title — or possibly national title — in the coming year? I hope to be able to serve as a role model and mentor to girls participating in the program and to those who are not. This program has helped me grow, and to discover so much about myself, and I want to be able to share that with young girls everywhere. I love getting to talk to others about this program because I truly believe it is a transformative experience, bringing about positive change for each girl that participates at any level of competition.

Q A

What 280 corridor restaurants and hotspots can people find you at when not competing? I enjoy visiting the Summit shopping center and the restaurants within like Urban Cookhouse and Village Tavern. My friends and I like to go to dinner at Pablo’s and Taziki’s in Lee Branch or Ginza. I love to visit and get Baby Bites from Pastry Art to satisfy my sweet tooth. My favorite Southwestern food is definitely Cantina.

Q A

What do you like about living on 280? Living on 280 makes everything so convenient. From good food to shopping to fun activities, 280 has a taste of everything. I don’t have to travel far to get to anything I need. For more, visit distinguishedyw.org.

B10 • June 2014

Vacation Bible School 2014

280 Living

Find out what your church has planned for this year’s VBS

Asbury United Methodist Church 6690 Cahaba Valley Road 995-1700 vacationbibleschool.com/Asbury June 23-26: Jungle Safari: Where Kids Explore the Nature of God. 8:30 a.m.-noon. Cahaba Heights Church of Christ 4602 Caldwell Mill Road 967-2150 cahabachurch.com June 2-5: Following the Footsteps of Jesus. Activities begin each day at 10 a.m. Chelsea Creek Community Church 48 Chesser Crane Road, Chelsea 678-2406 chelseacreekcc.org June 16-20: Weird Animals: Where Jesus’ Love is One-of-a-Kind. For children who have completed kindergarten through fifth grades. 9 a.m.-noon. Chelsea Village Baptist Church 10699 Old Highway 280 678-9697 chelseavillagebaptist.org June 16-20: Vacation Bible School includes a week of activities featuring fun, food, crafts, music and Bible study. Focus will be Psalm 23. Preregister at chelseavillagebaptist.org. Christ Church United Methodist 5091 Caldwell Mill Road 991-5065 christchurchtv.org June 2-5: Weird Animals: Where Jesus’ Love is One-of-a-Kind. Each day, children participate in small groups, play team-building games, sing Bible songs and eat tasty treats. Open to rising kindergarten through fifth-grade students. 9 a.m.-noon.

CrossBridge Church of Christ 3039 Brook Highland Parkway 991-1978 crossbridgechurch.org June 2-6: Vacation Bible School. Cost is $5 per child. 9:30-11:30 a.m. Register at crossbridgechurch.org. Double Oak Community Church 115 Olmsted Street, Mt Laurel 995-9752 doubleoakcc.org June 9-13: Weird Animals: Where God’s Love is One-of-a-Kind. Join Mr. James and his crew daily for a fun-filled week of exploring the Bible. 9 a.m.-noon. Faith Presbyterian Church 4601 Valleydale Road 991-5430 faith-pca.org June 16-20: Science and Art Camp. Week of events includes a VBS Family Cookout on June 19 from 6-8:30 p.m. First Christian Church 4954 Valleydale Road 991-5000 cc-bhm.org July 21-25: Workshop of Wonders Vacation Bible School. Week of events for 3 year olds through rising fifth-grade students. Includes music, science, crafts, snacks, games and Bible activities. On July 25, parents are invited to a musical performance by camp participants. 8:30 a.m.-noon. Liberty Baptist Church, Chelsea 11050 Chelsea Road 678-9928 lbcchelsea.com/kids June 9-13: XLR8 Day Camp at Liberty Baptist Church is a week-long day camp for children and preteens who have completed first through

sixth grades. Campers participate in two specialized track times, worship, Bible study and more. Early registration is $75 by June 4. $120 on first day of camp. 9 a.m.-4 p.m. Liberty Crossings United Methodist Church 5125 Sicard Hollow Road 951-7707 libertycrossingsumc.org June 16-20: Weird Animals: Where God’s Love is One-of-a-Kind. $10 per child. Open to rising kindergarten through sixth-grade students. Fifth- and sixth-grade students will participate in daily mission projects away from the church. 9 a.m.-noon. Liberty Park Baptist Church 12001 Liberty Parkway 969-1236 libertypark.org/vbs June 2-6: Agency D3. Open to all children who will be 4 years old by Sept. 1, 2014 through rising fourth grade students. Free to attend. $10 charge per t-shirt. VBS Family Day Rally, Friday, June 6 at 11:30 a.m. 8:55 a.m.noon. Meadow Brook Baptist 4984 Meadow Brook Road 991-8384 meadowbrookbaptist.org June 2-6: Vacation Bible School will be held for rising kindergarten through fifth-grade students. 9 a.m.-noon. Morningstar United Methodist Church 11072 Highway 11, Chelsea 678-2572 morningstarumc.co June 25-28: Vacation Bible School will be held at the church from 5:30-8 p.m. New Heights United Methodist Church 9000 Chelsea Park Drive, Chelsea

478-6688 reachingnewheights.net/event/vbs-2014 June 3-5: Jungle Safari at New Heights. Vacation Bible School will be held at Forest Oaks Elementary in Chelsea. Free to participate. 9 a.m.-noon. North Shelby Baptist Church 4100 Belcher Drive 995-9056 northshelbybaptist.org June 23-27: Agency D3. 9 a.m.-noon. Vacation Bible School week concludes with a Family Day on June 27 at 11:30 a.m. for parents that includes a hot dog lunch. Oak Mountain Presbyterian Church 5080 Cahaba Valley Trace 995-9265 ompc.org June 2-5: Weird Animals: Where Jesus’ Love is One-of-a-Kind. Each day, children participate in small groups, play team-building games, sing Bible songs and eat tasty treats. St. Mark the Evangelist Catholic Church 7340 Cahaba Valley Road 980-1810 stmarkrc.org June 16-20: SonTreasure Island Vacation Bible School. Spend the week exploring the island with games, snacks, crafts, music and more. 9 a.m.-noon. Valleydale Church 2324 Valleydale Road 991-5282 valleydale.org June 23-27: Mountain Blast VBS 2014. Open to rising kindergarten through fifthgrade students. Early drop-off at 7:30 a.m. Camp from 8:45 a.m.-noon. After-camp program from noon-5:30 p.m. available for minimum fee.

280Living.com

June 2014 • B11

Saws at your service 280-area residents assist in wake of April storms By JEFF THOMPSON The night of April 28, an EF-1 tornado ripped through the town of Kimberly just north of Birmingham. Some of the first boots on the ground providing assistance were members of the 280 community, and the damage they witnessed was significant. “The Kimberly Church of God had been destroyed and the town’s fire station had been uprooted from its foundation and redeposited in Stouts Road,” said Bob Thompson in an email to Cutters for Christ. “Property owners in the path of the tornado lost roofs, had uprooted trees come crashing through their homes, and trees anywhere near the path of the tornado were snapped off and dropped pick-up-sticks style in yards and across roadways.” Cutters for Christ is a regional, faith-based coalition composed of disaster response ministries from Riverchase United Methodist Church in Hoover, Clay UMC and representatives from several area Baptist, Lutheran and Catholic churches. Locally, the Asbury UMC Emergency Response Team is an integral part of the organization, and their chainsaws were buzzing in Kimberly fewer than 12 hours after the storm passed. Meridee Gibson coordinates the Asbury ERT. She said member Boyd Martin founded the group in the wake of the April 2011 tornadoes. On a mission to help those affected by the storms, Martin attended a training class offered by the Methodist church and became chainsaw certified. “Armed with only a temporary ID card and a chainsaw, [Martin] set out to help those hardest hit by the tornadoes. He continued working independently for more than five months and was the catalyst for Asbury’s response,” the Asbury website reads.

Members of Cutters for Christ take a break from clearing debris in Kimberly on May 2. From left are Bob Thompson (Riverchase UMC), John Calhoun (Mountain Brook Baptist), Henry Averyt (Asbury UMC), Alan Weeks (Asbury UMC), Buddy Williams (Clay UMC), Boyd Martin (Asbury UMC), Jim Pressler (Riverchase UMC) and Margaret Wendorf (Canterbury UMC). Also pictured is North Alabama Conference United Methodist Church disaster response ministry coordinator Rev. x Burbank at far right. The skid steer, named “Abel,” is owned by Asbury UMC. Photos courtesy of Bob Thompson.

Gibson said other members of the congregation started to feel his excitement, and over the next few months the ERT grew to nine qualified members and more than 20 volunteer workers. In April, they dedicated themselves for 12 to 16 hours a day helping members of the Kimberly and Adamsville communities reassemble their lives. “After four consecutive days of work in Kimberly, our CFC teams and the others assisting this community immediately after the tragedy had cleared so much debris that the authorities

[considered] asking us not even to return again until the mounding debris piles that have been formed at the curbsides all around town have been picked up and cleared,” Thompson, a member of the Riverchase UMC Disaster Response Ministry, wrote to other CFC volunteers. Since 2011, the Asbury team and Cutters for Christ have responded to assistance requests from 10 disasters, even traveling as far as Louisiana and Mississippi to lend their saws. Gibson said those helped by the ministry often offer gifts of thanks to the volunteers, but the reward for

Members of the Cutters for Christ remove debris from homes and roads following an EF-1 tornado that struck Kimberly on April 28.

workers is being able to serve. “To me, it’s awe-inspiring work that they do. It’s hard work cutting and moving trees, and it’s hot out there,” Gibson said. “But they get their reward from helping for the cause of Christ.” If you know of someone who needs assistance or is interested in being part of the team, contact Gibson with the Asbury ERT at gibsonme@bellsouth.net. For more on Cutters for Christ, visit cuttersforchrist.blogspot.com.

B12 • June 2014

280 Living

Remembering a life of Secret Service By JESSA PEASE and RICK WATSON A remarkable life of service ended May 10, when Lem Johns, 88, passed away. A memorial service held May 14 celebrated the memories of his life and the accomplishments made by the former Secret Service agent who witnessed first-hand the shots fired in Daley Plaza in Dallas on Nov. 22, 1963. He was about 150 feet behind John F. Kennedy’s limousine — he rode in the third car in the motorcade with his door cracked, and he said the instant he heard the shot, he raced toward Vice President Lyndon B. Johnson’s limo. Johns’ primary responsibility was protecting Johnson. “I was in the right rear seat of the car following the vice president’s limo, and I heard a shot that came from the right,” he said. Even with the lightning reflexes of the Secret Service it was too late for Kennedy, so Johns took his place behind Jacqueline Kennedy and Lyndon Johnson on Air Force One as Johnson took the oath of office to become the 36th president of the United States. After the assassination, Johns continued his role as assistant special agent in charge, but his duty station moved to the White House as he had previous experience in the White House protecting President Dwight D. Eisenhower in the late 1950s. “Being in the White House with Eisenhower gave me a chance to learn how things were done there,” Johns said.

As the role of the Secret Service expanded, Johns became assistant special agent in charge for not only the presidential detail but for all the Secret Service, putting him in a position to implement a number of initiatives that helped the Service to be more effective. Johns created roles for the presidential drivers and mechanics to become part of the Service — drivers helped with advance team preparation whenever the president traveled. Johns also upgraded the weapons used by agents and acquired a bulletproof limousine, even though, he said, the president was hesitant to approve the expenditure. During the 1968 Republican National Convention in Miami, the Secret Service needed 500 rooms to house the agents necessary to provide security for the convention. Johns soon learned there were so many candidates, delegates and media personnel at the event that no rooms remained for the Secret Service. Johns phoned the Joint Chiefs of Staff and requisitioned a naval ship to serve as lodging for agents. The chosen ship was dry docked in Norfolk, Va., and undergoing renovation, but it was the only ship large enough to fit the bill. “I asked them to double the work crews and complete the renovations on the voyage to Miami,” Johns remembered. A life so full of accomplishments was sure to be noticed as Hooverbased filmmaker John Jenkins took interest in Johns’ experiences with the Secret Service. Jenkins produced

Former Secret Service agent Lem Johns of Inverness shows a 1968 photo of himself with President Lyndon B. Johnson, who he served under after witnessing John F. Kennedy’s assassination. File photo by Rick Watson.

a documentary about Johns that aired on Alabama Public Television in 2011; it is now available for purchase on amazon.com. Much like his career, Johns’ marriage to his wife Nita remained successful for 67 years, up till his passing. Johns said long marriages were uncommon in the Secret

Service because of the demands on the agents. “I always said, being an agent requires a team of two: the agent and his wife,” he said. Their son, Jeff, also became a Secret Service agent for presidents Jimmy Carter and Ronald Reagan, and their grandson Michael served as

a Secret Service agent for the George W. Bush and Obama administrations. “At any given moment, an agent is a foot away from history, but I’ve always considered it a great honor to serve,” Johns said. Editor’s note: A previous version of this story ran in January 2012.

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280Living.com

June 2014 • B13

Alabama Wildlife Center collects donations for baby birds

(above)Director of Education and Outreach Jay Eubanks talks about the center’s work rehabilitating birds. Arthur the merlin, one of the center’s education birds, is unable to fly.

A fledgling screech owl is weighed in the center’s exam room. Young birds have to be monitored regularly to be sure they are growing properly.

(left) Volunteers care for mockingbirds and other baby songbirds in the center’s nursery.

By SYDNEY CROMWELL More than 200 mouths chirp hungrily in the Alabama Wildlife Center nursery, waiting for volunteers to feed them. As the summer continues, there will be about 700 more beaks to fill with food. To welcome the new birds, the center hosted its annual baby bird shower on May 10. While scattered rain reduced the turnout, visitors still came to donate supplies, eat cake and see the nursery from a special viewing room. There were also activities for children, including a beanbag toss game, a bird feeding demonstration, sunflower planting and a chance to meet the center’s education birds. “I love meeting and seeing the people that come through here. It’s exciting to see our

supporters and new people, too, who get to see the birds and stuff for the first time,” said Gina Hinson, who planned the shower and has volunteered at the center for three years. From March until August, many young birds get injured or lost before they are able to fly and feed themselves. These baby birds make up about half of the center’s annual intake, and volunteers and staff members put in long hours to care for all 900 of them. The donations from the shower will help offset the expenses of caring for the young birds. Director of Education and Outreach Jay Eubanks said the costs reach several thousand dollars, which is outside the center’s normal budget. “It’s very important for us to get all the supplies we need for the baby bird season.

Without this, it would be really expensive on us to get through it,” Eubanks said. Basic household items make up the majority of the center’s needs. Toilet paper, garbage bags, bleach, unscented laundry detergent and birdseed are among the things that enable the center to care for injured and orphaned birds. “They don’t have to write a big check to help us out. They can just dig into their pantries and their bathroom supplies and maybe bring us a few items,” Eubanks said. “We’ll take one roll of toilet paper. We won’t turn anything away.” Eubanks said the center accepts donations all year long for baby and migratory birds. Donors can bring items to the center or have them shipped directly from amazon.com. To see the full list of the Alabama Wildlife Center’s needs, visit awrc.org/wishlist.

Young birds like this hatchling are delicate and require nearly constant care. Photos by Sydney Cromwell.

B14 • June 2014

280 Living

School House Teachers learn to add rigor while exploring science in classrooms

From left are Vestavia Hills teachers and 2014 Science Works Conference presenters Becky Gibson, Desiree Spencer, Aimee Farrer, Jennifer Anderson, Jemmie Clements, Alicia Johnson, Brett Horne, Kathrene Westbrook and Jennifer Brown. Photo courtesy of Linda Rummell.

Liberty Park Middle School science teachers Brett Horne, Alicia Johnson and Desiree Spencer recently presented at the 2014 Science Works Conference held at the McWane Science Center. The purpose of this conference was to teach science teachers how to add rigor in their classrooms. Some of the sessions that they either taught or co-taught were a hands-on physical science session, a life science session and an outdoors session. In the physical science session, teachers were shown how science, technology, engineering and math concepts really work in a classroom. Through this workshop, teachers learned how a rocket launcher was made using PVC pipe, a grill igniter, tape and glue. Rockets were made from water bottles with isopropyl alcohol as fuel. In another session, the topic was plant reproduction. The teachers presented a hands-on lesson that included a

flower dissection. Participants dissected a lily, mounted it on a 5-inch-by-7-inch index card and labeled all of its parts. Another session encouraged teachers to take science outdoors. In the “outdoor session” attendees were taught how to create mini ponds from leaf litter and distilled or spring water. Participants prepared slides from a premade mini pond, and used microscopes to examine the microorganisms that were collected during the mini field trip into nature. The theme throughout each session was that teachers were encouraged to let students learn through exploration before reinforcing learning through reading and writing. Other participating Vestavia Hills science teachers were Jennifer Anderson, Jennifer Brown, Jemmie Clements, Aimee Farrer, Becky Gibson and Kathrene Westbrook. — Submitted Linda Rummell.

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Berry Robotics teams take top spots at UA competition

Some middle school team members also competed in the high school division. They were EJ McKinley, Jon Pickett and Alex Laney, pictured here with Joseph McKinley from Spain Park High School. Photo courtesy of Hoover City Schools.

Two Berry Middle School Lego Robotics Teams returned to Hoover with trophies following a successful showing at the University of Alabama’s Robotics Competition in April. Berry Middle Team 1 placed first overall in the middle school division, and Berry Middle Team 2 placed second overall. Berry’s teams faced teams from schools across the state. Students programmed their robots to complete challenges that weren’t revealed until that day. Once they knew the challenges, students had three hours to complete the tasks. Berry Middle Team 1 was represented by Andrew Wilson, Austin Wilson, Shameem Akhter and Shehzan Maredia. Berry Middle Team 2 was represented by Tanviz Devani, Marcus Mudano, William Baker, Michael Chen and Jack Hudson. Other members who competed were Madison Oakman, Mary Virginia McKinley, Michael Chew and Hamilton Crews. — From Hoover City Schools

280Living.com

June 2014 • B15

History comes alive at Forest Oaks

OMHS’ Moore takes top honors at Mock Interview Day

Bryan Moore from Oak Mountain High School was the winner of the Best Overall Interview Award during Shelby County Schools’ 10th annual Mock Interview Day in April.

Second-grade students at Forest Oaks Elementary in Chelsea recently dressed and gave speeches as chosen historical figures during the Living Museum program.

Learning came to life during the Living Museum at Forest Oaks Elementary. Second-grade students completed a project in which they chose a famous person in history to research. The students then sought out important information about their famous person and created a biography. After creating a biography, students picked their favorite facts about their person to make into a speech. The students held a Living Museum at the end of the research project to showcase their hard work. They

dressed up and gave their speeches as if they were that person. Parents as well as students and teachers were invited to attend the Living Museum, and they heard speeches from Rosa Parks, George Washington, Amelia Earhart and many other historical figures. Students enjoyed their presentations and look forward to participating in additional “hands-on” learning experiences in the future. – Submitted by Alexandria McDonald

Students put on their finest suits and dresses for Shelby County Schools’ 10th annual Mock Interview Day, held in April at the Shelby County Instructional Services Center. The event is held each year to help students with special needs gain the confidence needed to interview for jobs. Students rotated through a series of interviews conducted by volunteers from many local Shelby County business, including Ebsco, Regions Bank and Shelby Baptist Medical Center. Bryan Moore from Oak Mountain High School was the winner of the Best Overall Interview award, the top award of the day. The day started with an inspiring message from Allison Wetherbee, who currently serves as the community relations director for Camp ASCCA. Wetherbee, who was born with no arms or legs, spoke to the students about the challenges and adversities she had to overcome to be successful in school and in her career. Students witnessed demonstration of a “bad interview” and a “good interview.” Brian Wilson, assistant director of human resources with EBSCO Industries, helped provide the demonstration of the bad interview by arriving with his shirt untucked, wearing a hat and talking on his cell phone. He continued his bad interviewing technique by answering a call from his cell phone and not answering the questions with appropriate answers. In contrast, Wetherbee provided the demonstration of the “good interview,” showing the students the proper way to arrive, to greet the interviewer, and appropriately answer questions. Students and volunteer interviewers enjoyed lunch, which was donated by Taziki’s Mediterranean Cafe. Taziki’s owner Keith Richards has served as a long-term supporter of the event and hires student workers in the majority of his Birmingham area restaurants. — From Shelby County Schools

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280 Living

Sports Local soccer team wins state championship

OMHS girls soccer takes state championship title

The Vestavia Hills girls soccer U11 “Attack Black 03” clinched the state championship at the State Cup held in Decatur, Ala. in May. Front row: Saniya Johnson, Anna Causey, Amanda Hall and Raleigh Robinson. Back row: Miriam Abikhaled, Gracie Yates, Diane Westhoven, Virginia Hunt, Kate Poss, Lyndsay McLaughlin, Rachel Hall, Madeleine Ricks and Coach Amy Disko. Photo by Adam Ricks.

Oak Mountain High School’s girls soccer team earned the title of 6A girls 2014 AHSAA State Soccer Tournament Champions in May. The team competed against local rival Mountain Brook and ended the game with a score of 1- 0. Photo courtesy of Mike Howard.

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Berry girls win 2014 Metro South Golf Tournament Berry Middle School’s Girls Golf Team has once again emerged as Champion of the annual Girls Metro South Golf Tournament. The tournament, held in April at the Highland Park Golf Course in Birmingham, featured nine area teams. Berry’s overall score was 135. Another Hoover City Schools Golf Team, R.F. Bumpus Middle, placed second with a score of 148. Liberty Park Middle School (Vestavia Hills) came in third with a score of 164. “The tournament went very well thanks to Mace Muse at Highland Park and the

wonderful ladies at the Lady Legacy Foundation who volunteered their time to help officiate,” said Lincoln Clark, Berry Middle School teacher and head coach for the Girls Golf Team. — From Hoover City Schools.

Berry Middle golfers Jessica Shaw, Caroline Waldrop, Lauren Choi, Caroline McCabe, Tanya Gupta and Sarah Nelson recently won the Girls Metro South Golf Tournament. Photo courtesy of Hoover City Schools.

OMHS boys soccer places second in state

Oak Mountain High School’s boys soccer team placed second against Vestavia Hills in the state’s 6A championship in May. Photo courtesy of Daniel DeMasters.

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280 Living

Fencing, fields and fun 280 Sports Blasts offers a variety of sports programs By MICHAEL SEALE There’s more than just soccer going on at 280 Sports Blast, formerly known as 280 Soccer Blast. “We are pretty versatile,” said Facilities Manager Jason Dunkerley. “We have been in operation now for 15 years. Events have varied from circuses, dog shows, corporate parties, county voting, tournaments for lacrosse, flag football and soccer, camps, classes, clinics, training, field days for day cares and schools.” The facility has two indoor turf fields (each field is 190 feet by 190 feet — the size of a National Hockey League rink) that are conducive to a variety of sporting events. In addition to the fields, the building houses a conference room large enough to accommodate 50 people, a full-service café and audio/visual hookups with more than 20 large screen televisions.

This summer, you’ll find a variety of camps offered at 280 Sports Blast. In addition to soccer all year long, flag football leagues for children and adults take place at the facility, and players of all ages can sign up for participation online. Fencing classes are offered throughout the year with the competitive season closely following the school year. “The class schedule is flexible, and students can progress at their own pace,” Dunkerley said. “For those that enjoy competition, the Birmingham Fencing Club hosts tournaments for new students throughout the year, in a fun and relaxed environment. There will be opportunities to train with new and experienced members of the Birmingham Fencing Club as well.” For more information about 280 Sports Blast, including available dates and programs, visit sportsblastsc.com.

For 15 years, 280 Sports Blast has hosted a variety of events and sports programs. Photo courtesy of Sports Blast.

Summer Camps at Sports Blast Kids and Tykes Fun Camps June 16-20, July 14-18 8:30-11:30 a.m. These camps for children ages 5-8 and ages 3-4 offer a variety of games (relay races, scavenger hunts, tag, soccer and others), coloring and craft time and movie time. Since the fields are indoors, weather will not be a hindrance.

Soccer Day Camp June 2-6, June 9-12, June 23-27, July 7-10 9.a.m-4 p.m. For older children (ages 7-16) who want to learn and perfect the game of soccer, the summer soccer day camp focuses on developing the camper’s confidence with a soccer ball and improving technical skills under the guidance of expert soccer coaches. Campers learn and develop at their own pace.

Mighty Mites Summer Soccer Camp June 2-6, June 9-12, June 23-27, July 7-10, July 21-25 For children who want a camp focused only on soccer, the Mighty Mites summer soccer camp runs June through July. This camp features games, basic skills and a positive introduction to soccer with individual and team contests and small-sided games in a “mini World Cup” competition.

The World Cup Camp July 7-11, July 28-August 1 9 a.m.-4 p.m. The World Cup Camp, for ages 7-16, focuses on the techniques and playing styles used in soccer from across the world. Players will focus on ball mastery, attacking, passing and receiving. During the afternoon, players shift their focus to small-sided and team oriented training games. The camp finishes with a “mini World Cup” competition.

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Golf’s future stars to shine in 2014 Greystone Invitational In only its 14th season, the Greystone Invitational has quickly become one of the world’s premier amateur golf championships. The Greystone Invitational began in 2000 with a mission to become a top-tier golf tournament with a strong mix of non-exempt and exempt players of various ages that would draw contestants from across the world and to contest the event on a wellprepared championship golf course. The tournament field annually reads like a Who’s Who of collegiate, local, national and international amateur golfers as they make the Greystone Invitational a key event on their summer competition schedule. Past GI champions include present PGA Tour members Michael Thompson (2007) and Lee Williams (2001 and 2003) and Emerald Coast tour winner Glenn Northcutt (2010). 2004 champion Jonathan Dismuke is now golf coach at the University of Houston, and 2002 GI champion Zane Goldthorp has numerous top-10 finishes in amateur events, including a fourth-place finish in the 2012 Georgia Mid-Am. Many other contestants have moved on to domestic and international pro tours around the globe. One recent GI participant, Will Wilcox, is now playing on the PGA Tour and competed for the lead in this year’s Sony Open and won on the Web.com tour in 2013. Michael Thompson is so far the most decorated GI champion,

The Greystone Invitational is held each year at Greystone Country Club’s Legacy course.

finishing as runner-up in the 2007 U.S. Amateur the same summer he won the Greystone Invitational on Greystone’s Legacy Course. Thompson attended Tulane University for two seasons before Hurricane Katrina would force The Green Wave to disband their golf team. After transferring to the University of Alabama, Thompson’s play earned him the 2008 SEC Player of the Year. As a finalist in the 2007 U.S. Amateur, Thompson earned invitations to the 2008 Masters Tournament and the 2008 U.S. Open. While he missed the

cut in the Masters, he went on to finish as low amateur in the Open at Torrey Pines, finishing in 28th place. Thompson would once again finish as a runner-up in a USGA event, but this time it was in the 2012 U.S. Open, losing by only one shot to eventual winner Webb Simpson at the Olympic Club in San Francisco. Feeding off a successful 2012 season, Thompson had his best season on the PGA Tour, including a win at the 2013 Honda Classic. With his win, he would reach a career-high 45th in the Official World Golf Ranking and

finish the season at 39th in FedEx Cup points. Thompson has already earned more than $4.5 million in his pro career. Last year’s 2013 champion, Tyler Hitchner, is the youngest GI champion ever, winning during his junior year of high school at age 17. “I am totally amazed that I won, and I’m so excited to win the Greystone Invitational as my first major amateur event,” Hitchner said after the trophy presentation. Hitchner added how excited he and his family were with the win.

“We feel like we’ve won the Masters,” he said. Make your plans now to see golf’s future stars shine during the 14th annual Greystone Invitational, held June 19-22 at the Greystone Golf and Country Club Founders Course. You might just catch a glimpse of the next Tiger, Bubba, Phil, Gary, Jack or Arnie. For more information, visit the invitational website at greystone invitational.com. – Submitted by Greystone YMCA

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280 Living

Community Calendar Library Events Chelsea Library Events

Mt Laurel Public Library

North Shelby Library

one week prior to event date. Registration required.

Visit chelsealibraryonline.com for more.

Call 991-1660 or email mtlaurellibrary@ gmail.com for more or to register. Register online using the calendar on mtlaurellibrary. com.

Children

June 4, 11, 18, 25: Mr. Mac, Storyteller Extraordinaire. 10:30 and 11:30 a.m. Stories, puppets, lots of music for every member of the family. All ages.

June 4, 11, 18, 25: Chelsea Library Tot Spot. 10:30 a.m. Children’s Room, Chelsea Public Library. Children will have storytime, dance, sing and make crafts. Pre-K and younger. Register at the library before the event. June 11: Chelsea Library McWane Center Visit. 2 p.m. Chelsea City Hall. K5 through fifth-grade students. June 12: Chelsea Library presents “It’s only Rocket Science.” 2 p.m. Chelsea City Hall. Students sixth grade and older. Registration required. June 18: Chelsea Library presents STEPPUP North Shelby Baptist Puppet team. 2 p.m. Chelsea City Hall. K5 through fifth-grade students. June 19: Chelsea Library presents “Exploding Art.” 2 p.m. Chelsea City Hall. Students sixth grade and older. Registration required. June 25: Chelsea Library presents DR Magic Dewayne Reynolds Story balloon magic. 2 p.m. Chelsea City Hall. K5 through fifthgrade students. June 26: Chelsea Library presents “Build a Catapult.” 2 p.m. Chelsea City Hall. Students sixth grade and older. Registration required.

Every day: Crafts. Drop in each week to create a different fun item at the library. All ages with parent help. Registration not required, but supplies are limited. June 4, 18: Toddler Tales. 10 a.m. Stories, songs, fingerplays, and more make up a lively 30-minute program designed especially for short attention spans and their caregiver. Registration required. June 4, 18: Storytime with Ms. Kristy. 11 a.m. Stories, music and more for every member of the family. All ages. June 10: Backyard Beekeeping. 6:30 p.m. Doris and Neal Snider of Cahaba Valley Honey will discuss bees and honey production. June 12: Cookie and Ice Cream Social. 2-4 p.m. Join us for a cool treat on a hot day with cookies from the Townhouse Tea Shoppe. All ages.

June 3: Craft: Sundial. 2-3:30 p.m. All ages welcome. June 5: Blazer’s Educational Animals. 11 a.m. and 1 p.m. Join us for a trip around the world to see anything from a baboon in pants to an African porcupine. June 9: Skip Cain, Magic Guy. 2 and 6 p.m. Join us for and interactive show filled with magic and comedy. June 13: Chuck E. Cheese fundraiser for North Shelby Library. Chuck E. Cheese Hwy. 280. Celebrate the start of summer reading. The library will make 15 percent of sales from the night. June 19: Peter Hart Puppets. 11 a.m. and 1 p.m. Peter Hart presents Circus Bezerkus, a production that features pippets that dance, juggle, swing on the trapeze, do daredevil stunts and more. June 26: Ice Cream Social. 6-6:45 p.m. Bring the whole family and make delicious sundaes.

Story Time Programming

June 19: Miss Kit’s Bubble School. 2 p.m. Science, comedy and bubbles. All ages. Registration required. Limit 35.

June 2, 9, 16, 23: Toddler Tales. 9:30 and 10:30 a.m. Stories, songs, fingerplays and crafts make up a lively 30-minute program designed especially for short attention spans. Registration will begin one week prior to program date. Ages 19-36 months. Registration required.

June 26: McWane Center: Radical Reactions. 2 p.m. Science at the library. All ages. Registration required. Limit 35.

June 3, 17: Baby Tales Story Time. 9:30 a.m. A story time designed especially for babies and their caregivers. Ages birth to 18-months. Registration begins

June 5, 12, 19: PJ Story Time. 7 p.m. Come in your PJs, have milk and cookies, and hear some wonderful bedtime tales. All ages.

Teen Happenings Contact Kate at 439-5512 or nsyouth@shelbycounty-al.org for more. June 2: Teen Summer Reading Kickoff. 6:30 p.m. Carmike Lee Branch. Join us for a showing of X-men: Days of Future Past. Admission provided for teens entering 6-12-grade. Parents and siblings welcome for $10. Register before June 2 at 3 p.m. Payment for non-teens due at registration. June 5: Chef U with Angela Schmidt. 6 p.m. Learn how to make a tasty treat, win prizes. Food will be served. Registration required. June 9: Anime Night. 6 p.m. Join us in the teen department for an evening of anime. June 12: LEGO Mania. 6 p.m. Join us for free-build and take part in the speed build competition. June 16, 30: Movie Nights. 6 p.m. Enjoy a recent PG or PG-13 movie in the meeting room. Teens and adults welcome. June 17: Young Adult Writing Group. 4 p.m. An open meeting for teen authors who want to build their writing skills and respectfully discuss and provide feedback for each other’s work.

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Community Calendar 280 Events

Library Events (continued) June 19: Seventh annual Fear Factor Food Challenge. 6 p.m. Put yourself to the test with some new and unique food combinations. June 23: Dr. Who celebration. 6 p.m. All the Whovian activities we can fit into the teen department. June 26: Just Dance and Mario Kart Tournaments. 6 p.m. Who will reign supreme? Register online at northshelbycounty.org to make the brackets. June 28: Kaplan ACT Prep. 1-4 p.m. Take a free ACT practice test and see how you might score on the real thing. Register at kaptest.com/hsevents. Contact Dominic Johnson at dominic.johnson@kaplan.com or 317-1936.

Adults Call Michelyn Reid at 439-5510 for more. June 4: Family Jam. 1-3 p.m. Fruit canning workshop. Registration required. June 13: Brit Flick Movie Night. 7-9 p.m. June 16: New release movie night. 6 p.m. Light refreshments will be served. June 20: Trivia night. 7-9 p.m. Contest, refreshments, beverages and prizes. June 24: Introduction to essential oils. 6 p.m. Learn what essential oils are, how to use them and the therapeutic benefits they offer. June 30: New Release Movie Night. Light refreshments.

June 2, 9, 16, 23, 30: Tai Chi. 9:30-10:30 a.m. Heardmont Park Senior Center. Contact 9915742 or heardmontparksc@gmail.com. June 3, 10, 17: Bible Study. 11 a.m. Heardmont Park Senior Center. Contact 9915742 or heardmontparksc@gmail.com. June 3, 10, 17: Bingo and Board Games. 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Heardmont Park Senior Center. Contact 991-5742 or heardmontparksc@gmail.com. June 3: Amelia the Brave. 7 p.m. Spain Park High School Theatre. The show tells the story of a young girl who must confront the sudden illness of a loved one. $5 for students. $8 for adults. Proceeds benefit travel for group’s performances in Atlanta and Edinburgh, Scotland. Email mstjohn@hoover.k12.al.us. June 4, 11, 18, 25: Bridge. 9 a.m.-noon. Heardmont Park Senior Center. Call 991-5742 or visit heardmontparksc@gmail.com June 5, 10: Summer Play Days at The Adventure Nook. 9:30 a.m.-1 p.m. First Christian Church. 4954 Valleydale Road. Children 12 months-10 years welcome. Pizza provided for lunch. Limited space available. $30 per day. Contact fcc-bhm.org or call 991-9952. June 5, 12, 19: Aerobics. 10-11 a.m. Heardmont Park Senior Center. Contact 9915742 or heardmontparksc@gmail.com. June 5, 12, 19, 26: Urban Cookhouse Farmer’s Market. 2-6 p.m. The Summit. Averages 20-25 vendors a week. Visit urbancookhouse.com/farmers-markets.

June 6, 13, 20, 27: Intermediate Line Dancing. 10-11 a.m. Heardmont Park Senior Center. Contact 991-5742 or heardmontparksc@ gmail.com June 6, 13, 20, 27: Beginning Line Dancing. 11 a.m.-noon. Heardmont Park Senior Center. Contact 991-5742 or heardmontparksc@gmail.com June 6: ‘Mr. Peabody and Sherman’ at Veterans Park. Dusk. Follow @ BYMovieParties on Twitter. June 7: Know More Orphans 5K. Veteran’s Park. 6:30 a.m. Benefits Altar84, an organization committed to serving orphans and vulnerable children both locally and globally. $30. Visit altar84.org. June 7, 14, 21, 28: Mt Laurel Farmer’s Market and Craft Fair. 8 a.m.-noon. 38 Manning Place. Offers more than 50 vendors featuring locally grown, fresh produce and craftsmen of multiple trades. VIsit mtlaurel.com. June 7, 14, 21, 28: Valleydale Farmers Market. 8 a.m.-noon. Faith Presbyterian Church. Local farmers join others from Chilton and Blount Counties to sell their produce and goods. Visit valleydalefarmersmarket.com. June 12-14: 35th Annual National Sacred Harp Singing Convention. 9:30 a.m.-2:30 p.m. First Christian Church. Free admission. Visit mcsr.olemiss. edu/~mudws/national.

June 13: ‘Frozen’ at Veterans Park. Dusk. Follow @BYMovieParties on Twitter. June 14: Memory Lights. 5:30 p.m. Heardmont Park. A peaceful, serene “walk in the park,” planned especially to memorialize the loves ones who have gone before us. $25 to walk. Visit communitygriefsupport.com or call 870-8667. June 17, 19, 24, 26 — Summer Fun Camp at The Adventure Nook. First Christian Church. 4954 Valleydale Road. Children 12 months-10 years welcome. Limited space available. $175 plus a supply fee. June 18,19: AARP Driving Class. 9 a.m.-noon. Heardmont Park Senior Center. Contact 991-5742 or heardmontparksc@ gmail.com June 19: Becky with Harrison Regional Library. 11 a.m. Heardmont Park Senior Center. Contact 991-5742 or heardmontparksc@gmail.com. June 20: ‘Monsters University’ at Veterans Park. Dusk. Follow @ BYMovieParties on Twitter. June 24: Hearing Clinic. 9:30-11:30 a.m. Heardmont Park Senior Center. Contact 9915742 or heardmontparksc@gmail.com June 27: ‘Free Birds’ at Veterans Park. Dusk. Follow @BYMovieParties on Twitter. June 27: Heardmont Dance. 7 p.m. Heardmont Park Senior Center. Contact 9915742 or heardmontparksc@gmail.com.

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Community Calendar Greater Shelby Chamber of Commerce Events June 4: Ambassadors Work Group. 11:30 a.m.-1 p.m. Greater Shelby Chamber, 1301 County Services Drive, Pelham. Call 6634542.

June 17: Education Work Group. 8:30-9:30 a.m. Shelby County Instructional Services Center, 601 First St. S., Alabaster. Call 663-4542.

June 4: Small Business Work Group. 4-5 p.m. Greater Shelby Chamber, 1301 County Services Drive, Pelham. Call 663-4542.

June 18: Board of Director’ Meeting. 8:15-9:30 a.m. Greater Shelby Chamber, 1301 County Services Drive, Pelham. Call 663-4542.

June 5: Red Carpet Service Workshop. 10 a.m.-12:30 p.m. Hampton Inn & Suites, Eagle Point, 6220 Farley Court, Birmingham. RSVP by June 3. Lunch will be served. Call 663-4542.

June 19: Business After Hours. 5:30-7 p.m. Dixie Fish Co. Members $10, nonmembers $20. RSVP by June 17. Call 663-4542.

June 10: Entrepreneur & Small Business Mentorship Program. 8-11 a.m. Greater Shelby Chamber, 1301 County Services Drive, Pelham. Call 663-4542, ext.105. June 10: Existing Business & Industry Work Group. 8:30-9:30 a.m. 3535 Grandview Parkway, Suite 500, Birmingham. June 10: Go & Grow Workshop. 11:30 a.m.-2 p.m. Greater Shelby Chamber, 1301 County Services Road, Pelham. Call 663-4542.

June 20: Shelby County Export 101 Workshop. 9-11 a.m. Greater Shelby Chamber, 1301 County Services Drive, Pelham. Call 663-4542. June 23: Small Business of the Year Nominees’ Reception. 5:30-7 p.m. Greater Shelby Chamber, 1301 County Services Drive, Pelham. Call 663-4542. June 24: Quarterly Industry Tour. Noon-2 p.m. 1840 Corporate Woods Drive, Suite 100, Alabaster. Free. RSVP by June 23. Call 663-4542.

June 11: CoffeeNet. 8:30-9:30 a.m. Kai’s Koffee, 1973 Chadalar Drive, Suite B, Pelham. RSVP by June 9. Call 663-4542.

June 25: Membership Program-Small Business Awards. 11:30 a.m.-1 p.m. Pelham Civic Complex. RSVP by noon June 23. Member $20, Nonmembers $30. Call 663-4542.

June 13: Health Services Work Group. 8:30-9:30 a.m. Great Shelby Chamber, 1301 County Services Road, Pelham. Call 6634542.

June 26: Governmental Affairs Work Group. 8:30-9:30 a.m. Sain Associates, 2 Perimeter Park S., Suite 500 East, Birmingham. Call 663-4542.

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St. Vincent’s One Nineteen Mondays: Weight Watchers at St. Vincent’s One Nineteen. 11:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. St. Vincent’s One Nineteen Conference Room. Lead by Debbie Martin. Call 408-6551. June 3: Chapter One Nineteen. 7 p.m. Book club discussing Invisible Murder by Lene Kaaberol and Agnete Friis. Free. To register, call 408-6550. June 7: Sjogren’s Support Group. 12:30-3:30 p.m. We’ll offer education and support, as well as help increase awareness of this autoimmune disorder. Free. Call 408-6550. June 10: Blood Pressure/Body Mass Index Screening. 8-11:30 a.m. Every second Tuesday of the month, a representative from St. Vincent’s Wellness Services will be screening for blood pressure and BMI in the front entrance. Free. Call 408-6550. June 13: Comprehensive Diabetes Education. 9 a.m.-1 p.m. A physician’s referral is required and pre-assessments will be given preceding the class date. Registration required. Call 939-7248. June 14-18, 21-25: Thyme to Cook for Kids. 8 a.m.-noon. Theme is “Around America in five days.” June 14-18, ages 6-9. June 21-25, ages 10-12. $195. 10 percent discount for multiple siblings. Call 408-6550. June 16-20, 23-27: Thyme to Cook for Kids. 8 a.m.-noon. Theme is “from farm to table.” June 16-20, ages 6-9. June 23-27,

ages 10-12. $195. 10 percent discount for multiple siblings. Call 408-6550. June 18: CPR Family and Friends. 6-8 p.m. Join us for a classroom-based, practice-while-you-watch DVD and instructorfacilitated program on how to perform the basic skills of CPR in adults, children and infants. 11 years and older. $20. Call 939-7878. June 19: Breakfast with the Doc: Weight Management Myths and Reality. 8-9 a.m. Discuss weight management with Rebecca Miller, MD, an internal medicine specialist with St. Vincent’s Family Care. Free. To register, call 408-6550. June 21: Block Party and Health Festival. 5-8 p.m. The event will feature live music, free chair massages, ﬂyball dogs, fitness demonstrations, food vendors, healthy information booths, strength and conditioning competitions and free health screenings. Free. Call 408-6600. June 24: Living Healthy Supplement Review. 6:30-9 a.m., 4:30-7 p.m. St. Vincent’s One Nineteen Fitness Center. We’ll be offering registered dietitians to review nutritional supplements for men and women. Free. Visit onenineteen.com. June 26: Blood Cholesterol and Glucose Monitoring. 8 a.m.-4:30 p.m. Cholesterol and blood glucose screenings will be held by appointment. First screening free for members, $20 for nonmembers. Call 408-6550 to register.

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Community Calendar Birmingham Area Events June 1: Vulcan’s 110th Birthday Bash. Noon-4 p.m. Vulcan Park and Museum, 1701 Valley View Drive. An outdoor celebration with activities for the whole family. $5 for ages 5+, free for Vulcan members and ages 4 and under. Call 933-1409. June 4-7: Miss Alabama Pageant. 7:30 p.m. each night. Leslie Wright Fine Arts Center, Samford University, 800 Lakeshore Drive. The pageant will include talent, evening wear and swimwear competitions, and winners will receive college scholarships. Call 726-4069 for ticket information. June 5-7: Steel City Jazz Festival. Linn Park, 710 20th St. N. The festival will include more than 25 smooth jazz artists from across the country. $35 Jazz Soiree Kickoff Party, $50 2-Day Pass Early Bird (limited supply), $80 2-Day Pass, $120 2-Day VIP Pass, $50 Daily Pass, $2,500 2-Day VIP Reserved Table for 10. Call 533-9745. June 6: Zac Brown Band. 7 p.m. Oak Mountain Amphitheatre, 1000 Amphitheatre Drive, Pelham. Zac Brown Band is a three-time Grammy winner and multi-platinum band. $46-$94.90. Call 985-0703.

328-9696 ext. 229. June 7: Birmingham’s Big Ice Cream Festival. Noon-3 p.m. Avondale Brewing Co., 201 41st St. S. This Animal League of Birmingham fundraiser will feature ice cream sculpting and eating contests and build-your-own sundaes. $15 general admission, free for children younger than 4. Visit theanimalleagueofbirmingham.com. June 7: Bluegrass and Burgers. 2-5 p.m. The Red Barn, 2700 Bailey Road, Leeds. Enjoy free food, live music and art and education activities. Free. Call 699-8204. June 8: ‘My Fair Lady.’ 2-5 p.m. The Alabama Theatre, 1817 Third Ave. N. Watch this classic film and enjoy a sing-along and Mighty Wurlitzer performance before the movie. $8. Call 252-2262. June 10: Jesus Christ Superstar Arena Spectacular. 8 p.m. BJCC Arena, 2100 Richard Arrington Jr. Blvd. N. Tickets $51.65-$103.90. Call 800-745-3000. June 11: Bruno Mars. 8 p.m. BJCC Arena, 2100 Richard Arrington Jr. Blvd. N. Tickets $59.85$112.10. Call 1-800-745-3000.

June 6: ‘Jaws.’ 7-10 p.m. The Alabama Theatre, 1817 Third Ave. N. Watch this classic film and enjoy a sing-along and Mighty Wurlitzer performance before the movie. $8. Call 252-2262.

June 13: ‘Grease.’ 7-10 p.m. The Alabama Theatre, 1817 Third Ave. N. Watch this classic film and enjoy a sing-along and Mighty Wurlitzer performance before the movie. $8. Call 252-2262.

June 6-7: Magic City Brewfest. Friday 7-11 p.m., Saturday 4-8 p.m. Sloss Furnaces, 20 32nd St. N. Learn about brewing and taste more than 200 craft beers. $34.50 in advance, $40 at the door, $10 for designated drivers. Call 531-5085.

June 13: Mike Epps. 8 p.m. BJCC Concert Hall, 2100 Richard Arrington Jr. Blvd. N. Tickets: $37.75$47.75. Call 1-800-745-3000.

June 7: Juneteenth. 11 a.m.-8 p.m. Birmingham Civil Rights Institute, 520 16th St. N. An annual family event with music, vendors, contests, activities and free entrance to the institute. Free. Call

June 13: Ethan Bortnick. 7 p.m. BJCC Mainstage Theatre, 2100 Richard Arrington Jr. Blvd. N. Tickets: $45. Call 1-800-745-3000. June 13-14: 18th Annual Down Home Psaltery Festival. 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Tannehill Ironworks Historical State Park, 12632 Confederate

Parkway, McCalla. $3 park admission for adults, $2 for seniors, $1 for children ages 6 to 11, free for children 5 and under. Call 424-6970. June 13-15: Rick & Bubba Outdoor Expo. Friday 4-9 p.m., Saturday 9 a.m.-9 p.m., Sunday 10 a.m.-4 p.m. BJCC. Outdoor retailers, exhibitionists and organizers from across the country will include The Fish Ranger, Woods & Water, Motorsports Superstore and more. $10 for ages 13 and older. Visit rickandbubbaoutdoorexpo.com. June 14: Caribbean Festival. 11 a.m.-8 p.m. Linn Park, 710 20th St. N. Enjoy music, food, vendors and dancing in the street. Free. Call 383-1726. June 15: ‘The Philadelphia Story.’ 2-5 p.m. The Alabama Theatre, 1817 Third Ave. N. $8. Call 252-2262.

9933. June 28: Birmingham Heart Walk. 8 a.m.7 p.m. Uptown Entertainment District, 2221 Richard Arrington Jr. Blvd. N. Learn how to improve your heart health and prevent cardiovascular disease and stroke. Free, but donations encouraged. Call 510-1500. June 28: Tommy Emmanuel. 8 p.m. BJCC Arena, 2100 Richard Arrington Jr Blvd N. Call 800745-3000. June 29: ‘Thoroughly Modern Millie.’ 2-5 p.m. The Alabama Theatre, 1817 Third Avenue N. Watch this classic film and enjoy a sing-along and Mighty Wurlitzer performance before the movie. $8. Call 252-2262.

June 18: Birmingham Fern Society’s Show and Sale. 1-6 p.m. Birmingham Botanical Gardens, 2612 Lane Park Road. Buy a variety of ferns and receive expert advice on fern care. Free. Call 988-0299. June 21: Brad Paisley. 7 p.m. Oak Mountain Amphitheatre, 1000 Amphitheatre Drive, Pelham. Tickets: $58-$74.75. Call 985-0703. June 21-22: Triumph Superbike Classic. 8 a.m.-8 p.m. Barber Motorsports Park, 6040 Barber Motorsports Parkway. Call 1-877-332-7804. June 22: ‘Willy Wonka and the Chocolate Factory.’ 2-5 p.m. The Alabama Theatre, 1817 Third Avenue N. Watch this classic film and enjoy a sing-along and Mighty Wurlitzer performance before the movie. $8. Call 252-2262. June 27: Relax by the Tracks. 5-7 p.m. Railroad Park, 1600 1st Ave S. Enjoy music in the park, buy food from George’s Boxcar Cafe, then catch a Barons Game before you leave. Free. Call 521-

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