TheHomewoodStar.com
August 2013
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The Homewood Star Volume 3 | Issue 5 | August 2013
neighborly news & entertainment for Homewood
Classroom chic
As you and your kids get ready to head back to school, check out some style suggestion from around Homewood.
School page 24
Worldly experiences
HHS Band to receive community’s help in making its fourth Tournament of Roses Parade appearance
Go west, young band By CHANDLER JONES
Homewood offers several alternatives to chain grocery stores, giving customers a chance to internationally enhance their taste buds. Featured inside are a few.
Food page 14
INSIDE
A somber quiet crept over the field as band director Ron Pence cleared his voice. Members of the Homewood High School Band assumed a dreadful announcement would follow. But senior clarinet player Caroline Duncan said in that moment she couldn’t lie to herself – she already knew this was it. The Star Spangled Girls began passing out roses and Pence cued the music. Katy Perry’s “California Girls” began blasting in the background. Pence announced the
marching band had been invited to the 125th Tournament of the Roses, and Duncan became one of the 354 cheers erupting on the field that afternoon.
Pence turned back to the high-fiving and instrument-bellowing group in front of him and let out a laugh. He knew it would be just fine. At this point, he’s practically an expert.
“I was happy,” said Duncan. “Everyone was so excited.”
The Tournament of the Roses is a New Years Day Parade viewed by more than 5 million people in more than 200 countries. It features bands from Alabama to Alaska to Japan. The Patriots have appeared in the parade three times, most recently in 2009.
Pence reveled in their celebration but knew the hard part had just begun. He glanced at the other directors, Chris Cooper and Terrance Cobb, who shared his quiet smile. How were they ever going to get more than 350 teenagers and a slew of parental chaperones from Homewood to Pasadena, Calif.?
To fund this expedition across the country, members of the Homewood community
See ROSE PARADE | page 25
Sponsors ................. 2 City ........................... 4 Food ......................... 7 Business .................. 8 Community ............. 10 Sports ...................... 17 School House ......... 20 Calendar ................. 26 Opinion .................... 27
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In late August, R. Scott Jenkins, president of the 125th Tournament of the Roses Parade, will visit Homewood to officially invite the Patriots’ to California in 2014. Approximately 50 local businesses are contributing to ensure the fundraising success of the visit.
Top and above: Homewood High School Patriot Band appears in the 2009 Tournament of Roses Parade in Pasadena, Calif. Tournament of the Roses has invited Homewood School to make its fourth appearance in the New Years Day Parade in January 2014. Photos courtesy of Homewood High School Band.
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The Homewood Star
About Us Photo of the Month
Please Support our Community Partners Homewood resident Shelby Bailey places a U.S. flag at the grave of U.S. Army veteran Henry Goode at Union Hill Cemetery in commemoration of Flag Day this summer. Bailey is a member of Daughters of the American Revolution, which received an invitation for the Flags of Honor Ceremony from families and friends of Union Hill Cemetery.
AccelAbility Physical Therapy (12) Alabama Allergy & Asthma Center (8) Alabama Power (7) Bedzzz Express (3) Birmingham School of Music (17) Birmingham Speech and Hearing Associates (13) Bongiorno Italian Restaurant (13) Brookwood Medical Center (4) California Closets (17) Children’s Dance Foundation (9) D1 Sports (18)
Publisher’s Note By Dan Starnes
An act of service Service is a good thing. In our first year competing in the Alabama Press Association’s Better Newspaper contest, our four eligible community newspapers won a combined 33 awards for editorial and advertising work. Large numbers are great, but there is one award in particular that I am most proud of. The Homewood Star took home first in Best Public Service for our coverage of the 2012 Homewood City Council elections. During the election season, our staff interviewed each of the candidates and profiled them the July 2012 issue of the paper. But we didn’t stop with print coverage; we also held a public forum between the two candidates for City Council president where each was able to present his or her platform. The night of the election, we posted results online as soon as they were available for the community. For a staff of our size, juggling
as many different things as we do, this took a great deal of commitment. But we didn’t think twice about it. Our primary function as a publication is to provide community service. I have always believed this, and so has my staff. It’s very refreshing to work with a group of people who are as dedicated to enhancing communities through covering whatever is of concern to you, our neighbors. Of course, we could never do this without the commitment of the businesses who make this possible. You’ll see their names on the right side of this page along with the page number that their ad is on. Please show them your support.
Dawson Day School (10) Dawson Family of Faith (16) Dominique V. Backus, D.D.S (14) Fair Haven Retirement Community (8)
APA Better Newspaper Awards
First Lenders Mortgage Corp (24)
EDITORIAL Best Public Service 1st place: The Homewood Star for Homewood City Council Election coverage Category 8 — Best Use of Photographs/ Editorial Content 3rd place: The Homewood Star Category 13 - Best News Feature Story Coverage 1st place: The Homewood Star for “Rebirth of an heirloom gardening legacy” by Rick Watson Category 26 - Best Photo Essay 1st place: The Homewood Star for “Summer Fun Photos Contest Winners!” by staff
Hamilton Mortgage (15)
ADVERTISING Category 15 -Best Use of Humor 1st place: The Homewood Star for Highlands United Methodist Church ad by Keith McCoy & Dan Starnes 3rd place: The Homewood Star for Red Mountain Expresso ad by Keith McCoy & Warren Caldwell
Jo Jo’s Diner on Broadway (17)
Harmony Landing (21) Homewood Antiques and Marketplace (12) Homewood Arts Council (19) Homewood Chamber of Commerce (21) Homewood Family and Cosmetic Dentistry (20) Homewood Parks and Rec (22) Iron Tribe (28) Jacqueline DeMarco (26) Jim Johnson LMT (17) Julie Ivy White (9) LAH Real Estate (27) Mark Westfall (15) Mary House Kessler, Ph.D (13)
The Homewood Star neighborly news & entertainment for Homewood
Publisher : Creative Director : Managing Editor : Executive Editor : Advertising Manager : Sales and Distribution :
Dan Starnes Keith McCoy Madoline Markham Jeff Thompson Matthew Allen Rhonda Smith Warren Caldwell Michelle Salem Haynes Keith Richardson Contributing Writers : Lauren Denton Merrick Wilson Clayton Hurdle Interns : Caroline Drew Will Hightower Chandler Jones Intisar Seraaj-Sabree Published by : Homewood Star LLC
Contact Information: The Homewood Star #3 Office Park Circle, Suite 316 Birmingham, AL 35223 313-1780 dan@TheHomewoodStar.com
Please submit all articles, information and photos to: Editor@TheHomewoodStar.com P.O. Box 530341 Birmingham, AL 35253
For advertising contact: dan@TheHomewoodStar.com Legals: The Homewood Star is published monthly. Reproduction or use
of editorial or graphic content without prior permission is prohibited. The Homewood Star is designed to inform the Homewood community of area school, family and community events. Information in The Homewood Star is gathered from sources considered reliable but the accuracy cannot be guaranteed. All articles/photos submitted become the property of The Homewood Star. 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.
Please recycle this paper
Mosquito Squad of Birmingham (18) Oxmoor Valley Orthodontics (16) RealtySouth Marketing (5) Regency Retirement Village (11) Salem’s Diner (14) Sew Sheri Designs (25) Simply Ponds (25) Skin Wellness Center of Alabama (11) The Wade Team (10) Top Stichin’ (14) Trinity Medical Center (23) UAB Medicine (6) Vestavia Hills Soccer Club (24) Water Drainage Solutions (1)
TheHomewoodStar.com
August 2013
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4 • August 2013
The Homewood Star
City Mayor’s Minute Dear friends and neighbors, The end of the fiscal year is approaching, and meetings with department heads regarding the upcoming budget are now taking place. That sounds like fun, doesn’t it? There are hundreds of line items ranging from electricity to dog food for our canines. The process has steadily progressed, and we have been tracking expenses and revenues over the last few years by line item. I never move funds from one line item to another without Council approval for two reasons: one, it keeps all our finances above board to ensure everyone is informed, and two, it gives us an accurate reflection and history of that line item for year-end review. When I present my proposed upcoming budget to the Council, I can then give them a three-year history on every single line item in the budget, which makes it easy for a council person or resident to understand why the proposed funding is being requested. I take a great deal of pride in presenting the budget to my neighbors who serve on the Council and believe our budget addresses much more than funding. It represents character, honesty and the intended direction of the City. The Council has always trusted my budgets, and we work very hard making sure we never give them a reason not to trust it. Since becoming mayor in 2008, this city has ended every single year with a surplus, meaning our expenses have not exceeded our revenues. By completing each year with a surplus, employees do not have to fear losing their jobs, capital projects continue, and it is proof to the residents they have a government that can (and
will) work within the budget. Homewood is fortunate to have so many boards and committees offering advice and assistance to the Mayor’s Office and City Council who share their ideas during the budget process. I’ll take this opportunity to thank the Environmental Commission for the work it has been doing. One of the most popular aspects of our City is our beautiful “heritage” trees. Unfortunately, those large trees that seem to separate our city from “cookie-cutter” neighborhoods are rapidly declining due to natural death, storm devastation or removal due to development. So what can we do to address this? One way is to start a program that would replace our large trees over a period of time, which could ensure we have the opportunity to enjoy our canopy for years to come. The City has been guilty of replacing trees with crape myrtles and Japanese maples. And while they are beautiful accent trees adding color, they will not give us the desired outcome many years from now. So, these decisions are also a part of the budget process and the positive discussions will continue. Our upcoming budget will address the things needed now and the things we will need for the future. Leadership is the ability to recognize a problem before it becomes an emergency, so we will dig our well now — before becoming thirsty. With kindest regards I remain Sincerely, Scott McBrayer Mayor
New Citizen Police Academy session to begin The upcoming session of the Homewood Citizen Police Academy will begin next month. The academy begins Sept. 3 and runs for seven consecutive Tuesday nights. The Citizen Police Academy was first started in the mid-1990s by the Homewood Police Department as a means of providing the community a connection with the police department. The Citizen’s Police Academy allows citizens to witness the way the HPD handles the responsibilities of security and community service on a day-to-day basis. Through presentations and demonstrations by the officers, participants will learn techniques and resources officers use to
train for duty, from traffic stops to drug enforcement. Topics covered include: departmental overview, budget, officer selection, tour of headquarters, patrol, communications, corrections, jail, traffic stops, arrests, investigations, narcotics, tactical team demonstration and a range day where participates will be able to shoot various police department weapons. Food will be provided for participants each night by a Homewood restaurant. For an application and class schedule, contact Sergeant Eric Hampton at 332-6864 or eric.hampton@homewoodal.org
Lawn maintenance safety tips from HFD Since grass will be growing long into the fall season, Homewood Fire Chief John Bresnan recommends the following safety tips when maintaining your lawn. ff Try to use a mower with a control that stops the mower from moving forward if the handle is released. ff Children younger than 16 years old should not be allowed to use ride-on mowers. Children younger than 12 years old should not use walk-behind mowers. ff Make sure to wear the correct shoes. Do not wear sandals or sneakers, and do not go barefoot. ff Prevent injuries from flying objects, like stones or toys, by inspecting the lawn and picking up objects. ff Always wear eye and hearing protection. ff Make sure children are away from the area being mowed.
ff Start and refuel mowers outdoors, not in a
garage or shed. Mowers should be refueled with the motor turned off and cool. ff Make sure the blade settings are changed by an adult with the mower off and the spark plug removed or disconnected. ff Do not pull the mower backward or mow in reverse unless absolutely necessary, and carefully look for children behind the mower before mowing in reverse. ff Always turn off the mower and wait for the blades to stop completely before removing the grass catcher, unclogging the discharge chute, or crossing gravel paths, roads or other areas. ff Never allow children to ride as passengers on ride-on mowers. ff Keep your body hydrated while working in the heat. -Submitted by Homewood Fire Department
TheHomewoodStar.com
August 2013
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LawFit team places in national competition Homewood Police Department’s team finished in the top 10 in its first event, the 2013 LawFit competition in Olive Branch, Miss., in June. Top Homewood finishers were Jarod Simpson, Eric Hampton and Roderick Goodman. Jason Cuccini, Stephen Hensley, Victor Sims and Janie Shelsworth-White also participated. As the only team from Alabama, Homewood represented the state well with its four-man team, three two-man teams, a mixed pair (one man/one woman) and in individual categories. Events began with a weigh-in on Thursday morning, followed by the one rep max bench press. Friday included the official opening ceremonies, 1.5-mile run, pull ups, sit ups and the sit-and-reach. On Saturday, officers maneuvered through a 200-yard obstacle course to chase a “suspect” over a wall, through a chute, up stairs, through a window and more. The course was designed to not only be physically challenging but also test an officer’s mental faculties and ability to recall information and retain shooting skills after a pursuit. The Homewood PD’s Fitness Team was created not only to represent the department in future events but also to help promote officer fitness across the board. -Submitted by Homewood Police Department
Roderick Goodman drags a 160-pound dummy as a part of the obstacle course.
West Homewood redevelopment video released A new video has been released to promote the West Homewood development code under consideration by the Homewood City Council. The Regional Planning Commission of Greater Birmingham created the video to bring awareness about the code to area residents as well as businesses looking to relocate to the area. The new form-based code would ensure consistent character of buildings in the area, much like those seen in Edgewood or
downtown Homewood. It would apply to all future renovations or new construction along Oxmoor Road and Oak Grove Road. In order to help West Homewood become a more walkable neighborhood center under the plan, the City of Homewood has purchased properties for development adjacent to Patriot Park. To view the video and access the full version of the plan, visit westhomewoodplan.com.
It’s good, common sense...
Community Center construction on schedule
An aerial photo of the community center construction shows its state earlier this summer.
By MADOLINE MARKHAM The Homewood Community Center is on schedule to be completed by late spring 2014, according to Homewood Community Center Director Rusty Holley. Area residents can expect to see the walls going up on the structure by mid-August, Holley said. Construction of the foundation wall, pool foundation and gym were completed in July, and the water main, fire water main and sanitary sewer main were all installed as well. B.L. Harbert construction company told Holley that construction could be completed as soon as early April 2014, and Holley hopes to be moved in and settled before We Love Homewood Day, scheduled for the first
Saturday in May. Worst case scenario he sees the center opening in May in time for the pool to open Memorial Day weekend. “We will know more [specifics on dates] in October or November,” Holley said. Holley also said he does not anticipate a break in service between the time the temporary community center facilities close and when the new building opens to area residents. Major parts of the building are being constructed according to plan, but Holley said minor things have been adjusted. For instance, more brick was added to the back of the building instead of the original plan for stucco after the builder found a way to save costs to enable that expense. For more updates on construction and photos, visit homewoodparks.com. RealtySouth.com Mouse ads-VillageLivingHALF.indd 3
7/18/13 9:57 AM
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The Homewood Star
Cities could be renewing vehicle tags by year’s end By JEFF THOMPSON While it could still be months away, there might be reason to celebrate – specifically for everyone in Jefferson County who owns a vehicle. Local municipalities are discussing means to make it easier to renew your registration. In July, representatives from eight area cities met with state officials to discuss legislation passed in the 2012 session that paves the way for Jefferson County municipalities to issue license plates. “What I’m trying to do is make this as painless for citizens as possible,” said Rep. Paul DeMarco, who sponsored the legislation. “There’s no reason to force citizens to wait in four-hour lines. That’s not good government. We need to get it resolved, and cities want to help. That’s why I passed the bill.” House Bill 498 allows the mayor of any Jefferson County municipality to designate an official to renew vehicle tags for that city’s residents. This would effectively create a fourth location for residents of a municipality to renew, as they could travel not only to
existing county locations but also to their city’s designated official. “What came out of the meeting is everybody agreed that was a good idea,” DeMarco said. “Right now, Jefferson County has 600,000 people renewing each year and only three locations. Add seven or eight cities, and all of a sudden that becomes 10 locations.” DeMarco said the meeting, which included members from the State Revenue Commission, Public Examiner’s Office and Comptroller’s Office, introduced participating municipalities to software Jefferson County will begin using in October. Once the County installs its new programs, it can begin training cities to use it. DeMarco said training would take approximately three days, and after that a city would be able to handle the process on its own. Great news for everyone who is scheduled to renew in October through December, there’s a chance – albeit slim – you could be renewing at your municipal complex in 2013. “I would like to see it in place before the end of the year,” DeMarco said. “Citizens want to see this resolved, and we don’t need to keep putting it off.”
Homewood Old Navy moving Homewood’s Old Navy in Wildwood North shopping center plans to relocate to the Riverchase Galleria by December. Christopher White, Marketing Manager at the Riverchase Galleria, said he hopes for the move to be complete by Black
Friday. White said Old Navy plans to finish renovating its new space from September through November. For more, call the Riverchase Galleria at 985-3020.
New clay classes at the Senior Center The Homewood Senior Center is now holding weekly clay class with instructor Jo Ann Brown, a retired Edgewood Elementary art teacher. “While there are a couple of people above age 80 participating, I’m really pleased that the class has attracted more than four younger senior center members in their 50s and 60s,” Senior Center Director Aimee Thornton said. The ongoing class is held on Mondays from 2-4 p.m. For more call 332-6502.
Joie Culp, instructor Jo Ann Brown and Carol Peterson shape clay at the Senior Center.
New legislation protecting senior citizens from fraud Open forum Aug. 9 in Hoover By JEFF THOMPSON According to Rep. Paul DeMarco, the state’s senior citizens are now at a greater risk to be victims of abuse and fraud than in years past. In a recent release, DeMarco said Alabama is a hot spot for fraud aimed at consumers, and it’s particularly true for identity theft. The Federal Trade Commission recently released a report stating it recorded 3,339 identity theft complaints from Alabamians in 2010. That equals nearly 70 complaints per 100,000 residents, a rate that ranked Alabama No. 15 among the states in the FTC report. Experts say many more ID theft complaints are never reported. In light of these statistics, DeMarco cosponsored a bill in the 2012 State Legislative session that that strengthens penalties against elder abuse.
“Governor [Robert] Bentley just signed this legislation into law,” DeMarco said. “And we want to educate seniors about it.” Furthering the campaign to protect the state’s seniors, DeMarco and the Hoover Senior Center will host an Elder Abuse and Fraud Prevention Seminar on Aug. 9. The open forum discussion will include Neal Morrison, the commissioner for the Alabama Department of Senior Services and Joe Borg, the Director of the Alabama Securities Commission. The event, moderated by DeMarco, will focus on helping area seniors learn simple steps to protect themselves. DeMarco said his belief is that the statistics of elder abuse in the state are not acceptable. Doors open at noon, and the program will begin at 12:15 p.m. Robert’s Discount Pharmacy of Hoover will provide lunch. Reservation deadline is Wednesday, Aug. 7 unless capacity has been reached. Contact the Hoover Senior Center at 739-6700.
TheHomewoodStar.com
August 2013
Red Mountain Expresso
18 Street S.
Restaurant Showcase
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Read past Restaurant Showcases at TheHomewoodStar.com
Rosedale Dr
28th Ave S
31
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2601 18th Street S. 877-8778 Monday-Friday, 6:30 a.m.-6 p.m. Saturday, 7 a.m.-3 p.m. redmountainexpresso.com
By INTISAR SERAAJ-SABREE Ever had to wait less than a minute to be served homemade lunch or coffee? If you have been to Red Mountain Expresso, you just might have. Located on 18th Street South near the intersection of Rosedale Drive, the coffee shop prides itself in serving customers in 3045 seconds. It is Homewood’s only completely drivethru coffee shop, according to manager Brantley Visser. “Because we don’t have a speaker box, you come straight to the window, we greet you faceto-face, [and] you stay at the window and we talk to you the whole time,” Visser said. “It’s very personal, and that’s different than most drive-thrus.” Although customers only have a short window to chat with an employee, Visser said they make the most of face-to-face interaction. “We have a lot of regular customers,” Visser said. “You see them every day, all year long, and you slowly build this relationship with them and start to know more about them than you think you would.” Also unlike chain coffee shops, Red Mountain Expresso’s team has more allowance for input, rather than being told everything you must do, according to Visser. “We decide everything we want to do here,” Visser said. “Me, and [co-owners[ Sammy [Plaia] and Chris [Zarzaur] sit down and plan.
Red Mountain Expresso’s famous chicken salad sandwich is garnished with fresh grapes.
We decide all of our specials [and] all of our drinks. It’s a lot more hands-on here.” The hands of Red Mountain Expresso employees are not just busy making decisions. They serve customers beyond their modest storefront as well. The shop travels around Homewood and gives out samples of its sandwiches and promotes its new beverages. Still, word-ofmouth advertisement is its main source of attracting new coffee connoisseurs and others who need a quick pick-me-up. Additionally, the shop donates coffee to many local races, PTO meetings, schools and teachers.
Customers can buy crowd favorites chicken salad and pimento cheese by the pound or as sandwiches. The chicken salad is made fresh with 100 percent chicken breasts, pecans, grapes and a special blend of the shop’s own seasoning. With three different hand-crumbled cheeses, the pimento cheese is blended with a special blend of homemade seasoning. Its best-selling drinks are named after two main streets in Homewood and are available as hot, iced or frozen beverages. The Hollywood Latte is blended with caramel, hazelnut and cinnamon, and the Broadway Latte is made with white chocolate and caramel.
The coffee hut also offers slushies, smoothies, espresso, cappuccino, hot chocolate, and an assorted breakfast and lunch menu. The staff is currently working on promoting its back-to-school special for the week of Aug. 19, in which hot beverages will be discounted during breakfast. Since opening in January 2012, the company has grown approximately 40 percent in gross revenue and 10-15 percent in menu items, according to Visser. But its success is no mystery after co-owners Sammy Plaia and Chris Zarzaur have already been through so much together. In October 2010, Zarzaur, also owner of Chris Z’s located in Lakeview and Jimmy’s Hot Dogs & Burgers located on Sixth Avenue South, was struck by a car, restrained underneath the tire and hauled 25 feet cross the pavement. Zarzaur immediately promoted Plaia to help operate Chris Z’s, although Plaia was not scheduled to start work there until the next Monday. Though unexpected, Zazaur and Plaia had known each other since 1987 when they graduated from John Carroll Catholic High School. Now the co-owners split up their time between the three businesses, while Plaia focuses mainly on Red Mountain Expresso. “Sammy does a lot of the stuff here,” Visser said. “He’s here on the floor Monday through Friday. He’s crucial to running the place — very hands-on, always involved. He’s instrumental.”
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The Homewood Star
18 Street S.
Homewood Happenings
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inVision Ophthalmology’s fulltime optical clinic opened last month. The shop provides fittings for glasses, dispenses and fit contacts and fills inhouse and outside glasses prescriptions. Theodore Weaver, the on-staff optician, has worked in optometry for 14 years. He attended Hillsborough Community College in Tampa, Fla. “Our vision is to transform lives, not only by providing excellent service to
those who need it but also by being the best we can be in general,” Weaver said. inVision Ophthalmology offers patients LASIK surgery, cataract surgery and comprehensive care. In addition, it offers free vision screening on Wednesdays from 8 a.m.-3 p.m. inVision Ophthalmology is located at 350 Hallman Hill East, Suite 81. For more, call 390-0100 or visit invisioneyemd.com.
TheHomewoodStar.com
2 Monty Stabler
Galleries to reopen with new management
Monty Stabler Galleries, located at 1811 29th Ave. South, closed in late June due to its owner’s retirement. “I didn’t want to overshadow the artist show in June,” said Langston Hereford, the owner’s daughter. Seventy-seven-year old founder Monty Stabler decided to retire after 27 years of running the art gallery. Hereford said she was in eighth grade when her mother opened the gallery. “It’s been wonderful,” Hereford said. “I was raised here, and my children were raised here.” The store is slated to reopen soon after the paperwork is complete for new management to assume control, according to Hereford. Hereford said the new owner owns an art gallery in Atlanta, and will rename the gallery.
Collage Designer
3 Consignment
undergoes facelift
Collage Designer Consignment owner Tracy Dismukes renovated the Homewood location of her store following similar work at the Vestavia location. The store, located on the “Curve” in downtown Homewood, was only closed for one week, reopening in July. “From the moment you step into the door, you can’t help but smile,” Dismukes said. “The color really makes the clothes pop.” The store now features maple wood floors, white walls, black accents and hints of soft lime. Dismukes describes the renovated store as “bright, airy, cheerful, chic and crisp.” Along with the physical appearance, Dismukes also enhanced the lighting and sound systems. “After 20 years, we needed a face lift,” she said.” The store is located at 1802 29th Ave. South and can be reached at 879-6163
y Shoe 4 Shoefl Boutique celebrates
a decade of business
This month marks a decade since the opening of Shoefly Shoe Boutique in downtown Homewood.
August 2013
To show its appreciation to loyal clients, it has partnered with My Scoop media and My Sister’s Closet to host an anniversary party on Wednesday, Aug. 28. The party will feature sweets, drawings for discounts and a donation closet that will aid My Sister’s Closet’s work to provide women victims of domestic violence with adequate clothing. Shoefly Shoe Boutique is located at 2823 18th St. South and is open Monday-Saturday from 10 a.m.-5 p.m. For more, call 870-7131 or visit shoeflygirls.net.
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Celebrations Bailey-Mass
Sonology Hearing Aid
5 Clinic opens last month Sonology Hearing Aid Clinic will offer Birmingham a new retail hearing aid store supervised by ear, nose and throat physicians and audiologists. “Hearing aids are the key to better communication and overall emotional well-being for all affected by hearing loss,” said Tarika Bhuta, co-owner of the clinic. Bhuta and Brian McCool, spouses and ENT physicians, own McCool & Bhuta Ear Nose and Throat at 3055 Independence Drive. Sonology Hearing Aid Clinic is located next door to their practice. A ceremonial ribbon cutting with the Homewood Chamber of Commerce will take place on Sept. 12. For more, call 414-1368 or email info@ entbirmingham.com.
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Belle Foods bankruptcy results in Food World closure
As Belle Foods LLC tries to recover from its debt, it has decided to close its Food World location on Green Springs Highway, among other stores. The grocer recently filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection, according to Alan Harris, Hoover’s Belle Foods’ store manager. Approximately 35 employees work at the Green Springs Food World, according to Harris. As the manager for Homewood’s Food World, Harris said the store began its liquidation process early last month. It took two or three weeks to complete the process, according to Harris. At the time of printing, there was no set closing date. Harris worked for Bruno’s for 35 years and joined Belle Foods LLC when it purchased the chain last year. For more, call 942-0595 or visit foodworld.net.
Mr. and Mrs. Tim Christopher Bailey of Homewood announce the engagement of their daughter, Courtney Blythe Bailey, to Mr. Erik Michael Maas, son of Mr. and Mrs. Rick Maas of Pittsburgh, Pa. The bride-elect is the granddaughter of Capt. Max Powell Bailey Jr., USN Retired, of Birmingham and the late Mrs. Norine Skidmore Bailey, the late Mrs. Louise Lambert Harrison and the late Mr. Andrew Eli Harrison Jr. of Monroe County, Ala. Miss Bailey is a graduate of Homewood High School. She attended Birmingham-Southern College and received a BS degree from the UAB School of Nursing. She is employed at Princeton Baptist Medical Center as a CICU charge nurse and at Alabama Vascular and Vein Center in Birmingham. The prospective groom is the grandson of Mr. and Mrs. Louis Snyder of Luckey, Ohio, and the late Mr. and Mrs. Urban Maas of Toledo, Ohio. He is a graduate of Anthony Wayne High School in Whitehouse, Ohio, and Flagler College in Saint Augustine, Fla., where he was a member of the baseball team. He obtained his MBA from the University of North Alabama. He currently is the associate head baseball coach at the University of Montevallo. The wedding is planned for Aug. 10 at Trinity United Methodist Church with a reception following at The Club. Have an engagement, wedding or anniversary announcement? Email editor@thehomewoodstar.com to have it included in an upcoming issue!
“3 of my recent transactions were Homewood clients who sold one house and bought another one just around the corner!”
When you live in Homewood you get more than just a house, you find your place.
10 • August 2013
The Homewood Star
Community
Shelley Stewart recognized for community service The National Association of Black Journalists (NABJ) has awarded Dr. Shelley Stewart the association’s 2013 Community Service Award. Stewart, a former broadcast journalist, is now president and CEO of o2ideas in Homewood and founder of The Mattie C. Stewart Foundation. Stewart spent the early part of his career as a broadcast journalist, using the profession to become an agent of change. As a radio personality during the 1960s, he used his media voice to broadcast coded messages to Birmingham’s black listeners to provide information about human rights protests, meetings and other events. Eventually, Stewart was able to purchase a radio station and co-found a marketing and advertising firm, now called o2ideas, one of the largest minority-owned marketing and advertising firms in the country. Losing a brother to serving a life sentence without the possibility of parole was the impetus for the creation of the documentary InsideOut, which was launched simultaneously in 2007 with The Mattie C. Stewart Foundation. The documentary came about as a result of Stewart’s prison visits with his late brother. The Mattie C. Stewart Foundation offers a suite of educational tools aimed at keeping kids in school and explaining the economic benefits of getting an education. “He sees his life story as a testament to the power of an education,” his daughter Corlette Stewart said. “He has committed himself to saving as many children as
Dr. Shelley Stewart
possible from ruining their lives. He stresses the importance of education, so that young people who cross his path won’t fall into a life of drugs and crime. If we just save one child, we’re making progress.” Stewart has spoken to more than 52,000 people across the U.S. since 2008 at school rallies and business and civic events to spread his message. He also remains steadfast in his commitment to his public affairs roots. Currently, Stewart is the co-host with Samford University president Andrew Westmoreland of quarterly “Birmingham Kitchen Table” town hall meetings. These public meetings are designed to bridge gaps and improve cultural and race relations in Birmingham.
The Dawson Family of Faith announces our new day school...
The Dawson Day School is dedicated to enriching the spiritual, physical and intellectual development of children in a Christcentered environment. The Dawson Day School serves children 18 months to 4 years old (on or before September 1, 2013). School hours are from 9:00 a.m. until 1:00 p.m. Registration for the September 2013 session is currently open. (Spaces are limited.) The 2013-2014 school year runs from September 3, 2013–May 13, 2014.
To register or for more information, please call 871-8771 or visit our website at www.dawsonchurch.org/dayschool.
Dawson Memorial Baptist Church 1114 Oxmoor Road • Birmingham, AL 35209 • (205) 871-7324 Prayer Line: (205) 795-PRAY • www.dawsonchurch.org
Where young and old meet Recently, Homewood seniors and Herzing University Licensed Practical Nursing students came together to enjoy a day of music, socializing, ice cream and dancing to the music of Jean Rogowski — all while keeping their blood pressure in check. Twenty students in their first semester of the nursing program arrived at the Homewood Senior Center to take blood pressure and pulse readings on a lively group of Senior Center members. Aimee Thornton, director of the Homewood Senior Center, invited the students to join the group for their dance and ice cream social after blood pressure readings were taken, and several of the students took to the dance floor without hesitation. “Many of our students work or will go on to work with seniors after they graduate, so this is a great opportunity to have such a positive hands-on experience while having fun,” said Howard Davis, a Herzing instructor. “We appreciate the opportunity to meet seniors that are healthy and engaged in the community.” -Submitted by Herzing University
Herzing nursing student Lana Stephens with Senior Center guest Don Dunham
Library offers new digital services By HEATHER MILLER COVER Special Projects Librarian, Homewood Public Library The Homewood Public Library recently rolled out new digital products exclusively for Homewood residents. Zinio, UniversalClass, and Oneclick Digital have joined the library’s lineup of services, which already included Overdrive ebooks and downloadable audiobooks. Zinio offers full digital copies of magazines to view on your computer or mobile device. Homewood’s subscriptions include more than 70 titles. UniversalClass Online Courses offers hundreds of online classes taught by dedicated
instructors on almost any imaginable topic. There are more than 500 classes available on everything from beekeeping to Windows 8. Oneclick Digital offers 200 classic downloadable audiobooks. This service is simultaneous access, which means no holds and no waiting in line for a title. Many of these audiobooks are on school reading lists. Others, such 20,000 Leagues Under the Sea or A Connecticut Yankee in King Arthur’s Court, are enjoyable reads even if they’re not required. More information about these new services for Homewood residents can be found at homewoodpubliclibrary.org/downloadables. Homewood Public Library is located at 1721 Oxmoor Road. For more call 332-6600.
TheHomewoodStar.com
August 2013
Shop tax-free during the first weekend in August Alabama shoppers can expect to find back to school deals the first weekend of August. The eighth annual sales tax holiday will take place from Aug. 2-4. The City of Homewood and surrounding communities will once again participate in this weekend of discounts on a variety school supplies, computers and clothing. Hoover, Birmingham, Vestavia Hills, Mountain Brook, Chelsea, Shelby County and Jefferson County are also taking part in the state-wide holiday. There are a few general price rules for the holiday. Tax-free clothing items must cost less than $100 each, general school supplies must cost less than $50 each, and
computers/educational computer software purchases can add up to no more than $750. Educational books under $30 will be tax-free, as will school required textbooks between the $30-$50 range. A few guidelines to keep in mind about what is not tax-free: For non-clothing items, the purchase must have some educational value; recreational video games and/or computer software will not be on sale. Clothing that will not be tax-free includes various accessories, such as belt buckles sold separately, costume masks, patches/ emblems and more. For more visit revenue.alabama.gov/ salestax/SalesTaxHol.cfm.
Bell Center kicks off football season early The Bell Center will hold a preseason football celebration Saturday, Aug. 24 from 11 a.m.- 2 p.m. at The Summit in the parking lot in front of Carmike Cinemas. The Tailgate Challenge benefits the Center’s mission to maximize the potential of children from birth to age three who are at risk for developmental delay. Attendees will enjoy different tailgating food at various team tents during an afternoon of music, kid-friendly events and team rivalry. Celebrity judges will rank each team’s spirit, food and all-around decor. Team tent boosters are responsible for providing tents, decorations and food. Tickets cost $15. Children ages 4-10 are $5, and children 3 and younger get in free. Visit thebellcenter.org or contact Kelly Peoples at 879-3417 for more.
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Addressing ADHD By MADOLINE MARKHAM
education process,” he said. When he had both inpatient and outpatient Attention deficit hyperactive disorder (ADHD) work a few years ago, he realized he was missing is one of the most common diagnoses this time that part of his vocational goal. It was then that of year as children are going back to school. Dr. he backed out of inpatient work to focus more on Mark Westfall plans to demystify the clout around education. it at Homewood Public Library. In addition to the public education series, The psychiatrist hopes Westfall now works with not only parents of children local college counseling with ADHD will attend his centers. lecture/discussion event but His first House Calls also adults with ADHD. talk on the teenage “A lot of people think brain in May attracted House Calls Interactive ADHD is a childhood 30 people, and Westfall Lecture Series disorder,” Westfall said. said he received a “It starts in childhood but good response from Aug. 22, 6-8 p.m. is a condition that spans evaluations. In fact, throughout life.” he said interest at that Homewood Public Library Westfall will hold the session was so strong latest in his House Calls he now plans to launch $15 per person lecture/discussion series a seminar series with Light refreshments Aug. 22 from 6-8 p.m. four to five lectures Participants should on the topic. If interest will be served walk away with an overall proves similarly strong Register at understanding of the for ADHD, he will also biology behind ADHD, its plan a seminar series on housecalls.eventbright.com symptoms and its treatment, the topic. he said. Following the August Call 623-2171 for more A psychiatrist with event, Westfall plans 20 years experience in to continue to cover private practice, Westfall is common diagnoses passionate about educating including depression, the public on mental health and wellness. bipolar and anxiety disorders for future House “What I hope to do is engage people in the Call lectures. process of learning about it and talking about Twenty to 30 percent of the population has it, and to lower the stigma of these types of depression at some point in their life, he said. symptoms,” he said. “My hope for people is to demystify and Westfall said his lecture style is very interactive; destigmatize discussions about mental health,” he wants to engage the audience and rely on those Westfall said. “I want to engage in discussion that attending to guide the direction of the talk. will open up more discussion after the meeting so “It’s really about meeting participants’ needs people will continue to learn themselves and share and figuring out what they want to get out of it,” it with others.” he said. Education is an important part of Westfall’s Westfall, a Homewood resident, runs Westfall practice. Psychiatric Services in the Regions Bank building “I always wanted to be a teacher, and I love the in downtown Homewood.
ADHD
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12 • August 2013
The Homewood Star
Chamber Chat with Patrick Barker Homewood Chamber of Commerce Treasurer Patrick Barker tells The Homewood Star about his favorite spots around town and what the Chamber has coming up this month. How did you get involved with the Chamber? After attending Samford University, I began work as a CPA with Dent, Baker and Company, LLP in Homewood. Considering that much of my personal and business community centered in Homewood, getting involved with the Homewood Chamber was a natural fit. At first I volunteered as an ambassador, and became a member of the Board of Directors shortly thereafter. I am currently serving my fourth year as a member of the Board of Directors. Tell us about your role. As treasurer, my role is to ensure member dues are carefully utilized to enhance the programs and services offered by the Homewood Chamber. Who are the newest members of the Chamber? Some of our newest members include Alabama Vision Center, Banner Digital Printing & Publishing, Brink of Design, Birmingham Zoo, Caring Senior Service, CPR Cell Phone Repair, Defining Home, The Exchange Club Family Skills Center, MaidinBirmingham.com, Restaurant Depot and Style Advertising. What is your favorite Homewood business? How can I choose? If I had to pick, my favorite business would have to be Brookwood
Medical Center, where our now two-year-old son was born. Being our firstborn, I really appreciated the attentiveness of the nurses and physicians. Why do you buy local? There is a sense of pride in the community from having wonderful local establishments. Whenever family visits from out of town, I enjoy showing off the places they don’t have in their cities. Homewood is unique in its ability to provide an eclectic selection of retail businesses and restaurants within such a geographically small community. What’s your favorite summer Saturday stop in town? Two places my wife and I love to go during the summer are the Homewood Farmers Market and Edgewood Creamery. The fruit and produce offered at the SOHO market are exceptional. And who can pass up ice cream on a hot summer day? Plus, seeing kids walk out with painted faces after eating the Superman ice cream always makes me smile. What Chamber events are coming up? One of my favorite events is the summer Homewood Farmers Market. Located in the SOHO parking lot, it is open every Saturday from 8 a.m.-noon through Aug. 10. The Chamber’s next monthly luncheon is scheduled for Aug. 20 from 11:30 a.m.-1 p.m. at The Club. Now is also the time to register for our 12th Annual Homewood Chamber Golf Classic scheduled for Thursday, Oct. 10. More information can be found on the Homewood Chamber website homewoodchamber.org.
Sound off
Readers respond to our July article on the City’s plans to revitalize Green Springs It’s a start, and it definitely can’t hurt. The more improvements there are, the more people will choose to shop there and the more businesses will want to be located in the area. It sounds like the concept, “If we build it, they will come.” I think along with the places for food, a bowling alley, movie theater, putt putt golf and some recreational areas would draw people in to the area, making it more family friendly and mesh well with all of the automotive derived businesses. -Lynne Faulk (Green Springs) certainly needs some attention. (We need) stricter zoning. We don’t need any more quick cash or payday loan offices in or near Homewood. These establishments just invite trouble. Please try to find some honest business people for our city. -Beverly Douthit So the drag on the neighborhood, Mazer’s, finally leaves, and they install a thrift store and a Pep Boys, neither of which are geared towards the tax-paying citizens of
Homewood or Vestavia. There are already five dumpy, plastic banner-waving auto repair-type shops between Valley and Lakeshore. There is an Everything’s a Dollar, a disgusting Food World and K-Mart and the disaster that is the Palisades, including a Wal-Mart that I would just as soon walk on hot coals as venture into. While some of that is city of Birmingham and cannot be overcome, the corners of Green Springs and Palisades are garbage, the Lovoy’s vacant (lot), the meat and three dump at the old Captain D’s and the Paw Paw Patch are equivalent to East Lake real estate, and that shopping center where the post office is rivals anything in West End. The center where Dominos is is not even worth mentioning, People in Homewood and Vestavia have a lot of money to spend and we need their taxes, but they are shopping at the City Center, Mountain Brook Village and The Summit. I sincerely hope they can make it right. But Pep Boys and Mission thrift is a step in the wrong direction. -Peter Drake
Homewood gift cards on sale You can now give a gift that supports local business — and gives the recipient the freedom to select something from his or her favorite Homewood shop. As part of its Shop Local campaign, the Homewood Chamber of Commerce is now selling new and easy-to-use gift certificates. The certificates are available in any
denomination. A list of participating businesses will be provided at the time of purchase. Certificates can be purchased at the Chamber office located at 1721 Oxmoor Road in the lower level of the Homewood Public Library. For more call 871-5631.
Red Balloon Sale
Saturday August 17th! antiques, furniture, artwork, gifts, children’s items, custom nursery bedding, area rugs, jewelry, home accessories, lamps, monogramming, upholstery service, custom slip covers, and so much more!!!
930 Oxmoor Road www.homewoodantiques.com (205)414-9945
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TheHomewoodStar.com
Back to School Bash to benefit HHS Band By MADOLINE MARKHAM The school year will kick off with fun and fanfare at the annual Back to School Bash at Homewood Central Park Saturday, Aug. 24. Rides, inflatables, a live DJ and entertainment will run from 3-7 p.m. Wristbands for unlimited rides are $10. Smaller rides will be available for children ages three and under to ride for free. Homewood High School Band members will man the rides, and all funds from the wristbands will benefit their trip to the Rose Bowl in 2014. The City covers the expenses from the event but uses it as opportunity to raise money for community causes each year, according
to Homewood Community Center Director Rusty Holley. Since many of the We Love Homewood Day festivities were cancelled, vendors who planned to participate have the option to come to Back to School Bash or next year’s We Love Homewood Day without paying a fee. Along with more vendors, this year’s event will also start earlier in the day and run longer than previous years in hopes of raising more money for the Marching Patriots. “We are hoping for good turnout to support the band,” Holley said. For more visit homewoodparks.com or contact Rusty Holley at rusty.holley@ homewoodal.org.
Dining deals return for annual Birmingham Restaurant Week Michael’s Steakhouse and Jojo’s on Broadway in Homewood are among more than 30 local eateries participating in this year’s Birmingham’s Restaurant Week, scheduled for Aug. 16-25. Featured restaurants will offer special two and/or three-course prix-fixe lunch and/ or dinner menus ranging from $5-$30 per person. Several menus will also include a children’s selection, brunch offerings and drink specials. Other participating restaurants include La Paz, VINO, The Garden Café, Davenport’s Pizza, Satterfield’s, Black Market Bar & Grill, Highlands Bar & Grill, Bottega Dining
Room, Bottega Café, Chez Fonfon, Silverton Café, Veranda on Highland, The Wine Loft, Little Savannah, 26, Ocean, Ted’s, Dreamland BBQ, Rusty’s BBQ, Slice, ROJO, Century Restaurant & Bar, John’s City Diner, The J Clyde, Eagle’s Restaurant, Urban Standard and Oscar’s at the Museum. New this year, the BRW Mobile Site Dining Guide will deliver dining details right to your fingertips on your smart phone. BRW is held in conjunction with Alabama Tourism Department’s Year of Alabama Food 2012 and is presented by Regions Bank. For more on participating restaurants, menus and other details, visit bhamrestaurantweek.com.
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Specializes in working with:
Lessening chronic pain • Lowering anxiety Reprocessing trauma • Getting rid of phobias Habit cessation • Regression therapy Mountain Brook Center, 2700 Highway 280, Suite 470E Mountain Brook, AL Phone 205-602-8329 • Fax 205-278-5347 Email: 2610mhkphd@gmail.com
OLS to celebrate 21 years of Perpetual Adoration
Our Lady of Sorrows Catholic Church Pastor Rev. Msgr. Martin Muller carries the monstrance containing the Blessed Sacrament at last year’s celebration of Perpetual Eucharistic Adoration.
The 21st anniversary of Perpetual Eucharistic Adoration at Our Lady of Sorrows Catholic Church will be celebrated on Saturday, Aug. 10. An appreciation
dinner for committed adorers and their families will follow the 5 p.m. Mass at the church at 1728 Oxmoor Road in Homewood.
Six-acre, off-leash dog park coming to Red Mountain Red Mountain Park will soon boast a space just for dogs. Ken Jackson’s excitement for the possibility of “designated dog space” resulted in an initial $100,000 donation from his ‘Mac & Tosh’ Donor Advised Fund at the Community Foundation of Greater Birmingham. Remy’s Dog Park will be named for his late Jack Russell Shih Tzu mix, Remy. “This is the most gratifying – and fun – endeavor I’ve been involved with since establishing the Remy Fund for Pets
and Animal Services at the Community Foundation in 2010,” Jackson said. Remy’s Dog Park will feature three designated areas to accommodate large dogs, small dogs and special needs dogs (elderly, shy, injured or recovering). Drinking water, hoses for on-site baths, lots of open space for running and shaded space for resting will be ready to welcome canines and their owners by the end of this year. The dog park and other Phase II park developments are scheduled to open by 2015. For more visit redmountainpark.org.
14 • August 2013
The Homewood Star
Homewood’s ethnic markets By Intisar Seraaj-Sabree Food can lift one’s spirits, take your taste buds to an unexplored place and make you feel at
home. As an ethnically diverse city, Homewood offers several alternatives to chain grocery stores,
Mediterranean Food Market 430 Green Springs Highway, Suite 6 942-1777 Monday-Thursday & Saturday, 9:30 a.m.-8 p.m. Friday, 9:30 a.m.-1 p.m., 2:15 p.m.-8 p.m. Sunday, 10 a.m. -6 p.m.
Best known for their halaal meats — or Islam’s standard of kosher — Mediterranean Food Market is well-known in the local Muslim community for providing wellcleaned meats since it opened 15 years ago. “[The store] targets the ‘eat clean’ movement,” said 24-year-old Muhammad Mubarak, the store’s butcher. “When people try to eat healthier, you see an increase in this kind of thing.” Although Mubarak describes the store as “one of Birmingham’s best-kept secrets,” it has plenty of non-Muslim customers.
“People come in unexpectedly,” he said. In addition to halaal meat, this market offers sweets from Saudi Arabia and Lebanon, olive oil from Palestine, fresh produce and hookahs. “Be prepared to be surprised,” Mubarak said. What it offers: Mediterranean and Middle Eastern In their own words: “It’s like bringing back the taste of home for international people.” Best-selling item: halaal meat Unique items: lamb tongues, seasonal lamb’s head and goat
giving customers a chance to internationally enhance their taste buds. Featured here are a few.
Constantine International Foods 166 W. Valley Ave. 945-6001 pita.net Monday-Saturday, 8:30 a.m.-8 p.m.
Since 1996, Constantine International Foods has offered the community freshly baked pita bread as its best people-pleaser. Owner Naji Constantine acquired the restaurant and bakery in 1996 and has grown it to include a market and wholesale warehouse. Customers can find the market attached to Naji’s Pita Gourmet restaurant full of a variety of Middle Eastern foods from places such as Iran, Israel and Lebanon. Samia Emaish, Naji’s older sister and general manager, said customers
HOMEWOOD
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prize the availability of products the market provides. With an online store where customers can grocery shop also, Constantine’s strives to bring the people exactly what they want when they want. What it offers: Middle Eastern In their own words: “We’re always open to suggestions.” Best-selling items: pita bread and halaal meat Unique items: British candy, manaqesh, kishk, Baba Ghanouj and shawarma What’s to come: continued growth in product availability
ALABAMA
877-8797
Wayne Salem, Owner
2913 18th Street S.
Monday–Saturday 6:30am to 3pm www.salemsdiner.com
Salem’s Summertime Special
Grilled Tilapia with Sauteed Onions, Peppers, and Tomatoes
August 2013 • 15
TheHomewoodStar.com
send tongues on vacation Nabeel’s Café & Market 1706 Oxmoor Road 879-9292 nabeels.com Monday-Saturday, 8:30 a.m.-7 p.m.
Nabeel’s has been around for several decades, but when owner John Krontiras family took over in 1992, they transformed it to have the capability to serving a more diverse customer spectrum. “We wanted to own our own business,” Krontira’s said. “We were already familiar with it, and our church Our Lady of Sorrows is next door.” Since the Krontiras family moved to Homewood in 1972 from Patterson, N.J., they were regular customers of Nabeel’s. With Italian and Greek heritages, the family looked for a place where they could buy ethnic staples like olives and various cheeses.
John took over the family business in 1995, and the market has expanded to include a Southern flare among food from the eastern hemisphere. What it offers: Greek, Italian, Russian, Turkish and Middle Eastern In their own words: “unique, Old World feel” Best-selling item: chicken salad Unique items: raw vanilla beans, za’atar, incense coal and red henna What’s to come: to-go/ready-made items, including Greek casseroles, spinach pies, baked Kibbe and Italian classics
Super Oriental Market and Red Pearl Restaurant 243 West Valley Ave. 945-9558 Superorientalmkt.com Monday-Sunday, 10 a.m.-9:30 p.m.
In response to the growing Asian community, owner Yi Lu Dong, 65, opened Super Oriental Market approximately 11 years ago. This market sells novelty Asian items from specialty-ordered Asian fruit and restaurant/cookware to traditional Chinese clothing and Hello Kitty products. “Lots of people ask us for what they need, and we order what they need,” said manager Linda Lin, 35. “We take care of
our customers’ needs and they take care of our business.” What it offers: Chinese, Vietnamese and Thai Best-selling items: live lobster (in summer) and crawfish Unique items: jackfruit, durian, roasted duck, frog and snail What’s to come: Rental spaces for customers, wholesale nail supply store
“Focus!” on ADHD
Understanding ADHD throughout Life An interactive lecture with Psychiatrist Mark Westfall M.D. Thurs. August 22 6-8 pm Homewood Public Library Register at
housecalls.eventbrite.com
16 • August 2013
The Homewood Star
Room to grow
TLC’s My First Home features West Homewood family
By CHANDLER JONES One of Homewood’s newest additions is now its most famous. In January, TLC’s My First Home followed Andrew and Trista Wolverton’s hunt through 10 houses in Vestavia, Hoover, Crestwood, Shelby County and Southside before the two finally decided on a home on Sherbrooke Drive in Homewood. The episode, titled “Bursting at the Seams,” aired in May. The couple knew after the birth of their second child they could no longer house themselves, newborn Wesley, toddler Ruby and three dogs in their 400-square-foot apartment. “We had way too little room and way too much stuff for where we were living,” Andrew said. All together, the Wolvertons called the search exhausting. They struggled through more than 30 homes mostly in the evening to accommodate their family and work schedules. Through it all, Trista remained steadfast to find their dream home. They were looking for a threebedroom and two-bath home with a yard for their dogs in family-friendly neighborhood. In a quiet street in West Homewood, they found just what they wanted. “The landscaping was neat,” Trista said. “The playground is down the road, and it’s close to work for [Andrew]. It was a good size for the price. It kind of hit all my criteria.”
Trista, Ruby, Wesley and Andrew Wolverton are getting settled in their new home in West Homewood. Photo by Chandler Jones.
In front of their new, cozy splitlevel, a deep gray path from the driveway forks either to the front door or a picnic area to the left of the house. Inside, an open entrance area boasts freshly finished floors and newly laid stone thanks to the Wolvertons. “It is a big responsibility,”
Andrew said. “You are responsible if anything goes wrong. You are no longer a renter. At the same time it gives you a lot of liberty to do what you want with your house, too. You can decorate however, replace any of the fixtures or paint any of the walls. And it’s a relief that your money isn’t going in to a pit where
you’ll never see again.” Since moving in, the Wolvertons said they have come to appreciate the little things in having a home all their own. “It’s just nice to have your own space to stretch,” Andrew said. “We can actually have people over, and have parents or friends stay over if
they’re in from out of town.” Ruby’s toys are now strewed in the home’s corners and walkways. The stairs are her playground as she’s learning to climb. Trista is a fan of shows like TLC’s My First Home and was delighted to be featured, recalling the moment she found their names in the episode description on a TV guide. Although TLC has capitalized on the Wolvertons’ search, they weren’t instrumental to the process. My First Home is not filmed in real time. The show stayed true to the family’s circumstance, just with a six-month lag. The network didn’t approach the Wolvertons until nearly five months after they found their home. The crew filmed reenactments of many of their real house-hunting experiences. “It is made for TV, so like any reality TV show, it is going to have some elements of, ‘OK, this is acting, so we’ve got to make it believable but also need to make it entertaining,’” Andrew said. “With the cameras and the audio, they can add sound effects. They have the ability to make it much more dramatic than it might be in real life.” The show followed them into their new home and their old home and had scripted shots inside some of the featured homes. Since the show aired, Andrew said he gets looks in the grocery store, and Trista has been a approached a few times. But they said the fame hasn’t bothered them yet.
August 2013 • 17
TheHomewoodStar.com
Sports
Closer to home Homewood standout Ronald Nored begins collegiate coaching career at South Alabama
By CLAYTON HURDLE
his freshman year at Butler. In his sophomore and junior years, Five years ago, Ronald Nored was his Bulldogs reached the NCAA a high school student playing in the championship game, losing to Duke state basketball championship with in 2010 and Connecticut in 2011. the Homewood Patriots. Nored averaged 7.8 points and The former point guard went on 5.2 assists per game as a senior, to compete in back-to-back NCAA and was named the head coach championship games as a starter and at Brownsburg High School in key contributor at Butler University Indianapolis before his graduation in 2010 and 2011. In April, he was from Butler. hired to join former Butler assistant “What an unbelievable Ronald Nored coach Matthew Graves’ staff at the experience I had at Brownsburg University of South Alabama. last year,” Nored said. “I had no intention of “He was at the top of my short list because I leaving so quickly.” knew he had a passion to coach at the college Nored led Brownsburg to an 11-10 final record level,” Graves said. “The fact that he’s from in his lone season at the helm. The Bulldogs, who Alabama made it a slam dunk to try anything had struggled in recent years, ended the 2012-13 possible to get him on my staff.” regular season on a seven-game win streak. Nored’s move to Mobile is a return to the “Ron has an unbelievable passion for the game state where he grew up and played high school of basketball,” Graves said. “He is the best leader basketball. At Homewood, he averaged 15.3 that I have ever coached.” points per game his senior season and led his Nored said he did not imagine being back in his team to the state championship game. home state coaching basketball, but he is excited “Ronald came in as a leader his ninth-grade to get to work as part of the South Alabama staff. year,” Homewood head basketball coach Tim “We are excited to be here and excited to have Shepler said. “He had a vision for what he a solid base,” Nored said. “We’re getting people wanted to do. Coaching is a natural progression excited about South Alabama basketball. This is in his life.” a great area. When we have the right guys here, Nored credits growing up in Homewood for we’ll go a long way.” starting him on the road to his dream as a head Back in Alabama, Nored looks to continue his college basketball coach. success as a coach in his home state. Those that “I thank the town of Homewood for being a watched him grow in Homewood expect nothing good place that allows people to grow up the less from their native son. right way, feel safe and follow their dreams,” “He’s always been unique, and he’s going he said. to be an incredible coach,” Shepler said. “He’s Since playing in the 2008 state championship going to rise in the coaching profession, and I where Homewood fell 66-55 to Hillcrest- wouldn’t be surprised if he had a head coaching Tuscaloosa, Nored became a regular starter in job by age 30.”
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All Stars bring home Metro Tourney wins Homewood Patriot Youth Baseball All Star teams had their best year in the Metro Tournament this season. The 10-year-old
and 12-year-old teams came in first place, and the 9-year-old and 11-year-old teams were runners-up.
10-year-old All Stars. Front row: Will Heisler, Jack Briese, Alex Kamau, Alan Isenhower, Max Heath, John Hall. Second row: Frank Studinka, Jake Hurst, Fritz Bolongaro, Charlie Goode, Reed Harrison, JP Bodnar. Back row: Coach Dave Goode and Head Coach Kevin Studinka. Not pictured: Drew Briese, Kyle Smith, Hardy Smith.
12-year-old All Stars. Front row: James Reeves, Michael Ford, Ky Burdeshaw, Larkin Williams, Draper Tapscott, Crawford Doyle. Back row: Alex Harris, Grayson Kelly, Jack Dorough, John Hale, Wesley Williams. Coaches: Max Hale, Carter Doyle, John Burdeshaw, John Dorough. Tournament Director Robby Tapscott.
18 • August 2013
The Homewood Star
Homewood Patriots 2013 Season Preview
Carson Griffis (14), one of three quarterbacks competing for the starting job, waits for the snap with Greg Coates (7) at wide receiver and Daniel Maharrey (15) crouched at fullback.
2013SCHEDULE Date 8/30 9/6 9/13 9/20 9/27 10/4 10/10 10/18 10/25 11/1
Opponent Vestavia Hills Chilton County* Briarwood Christian* Ramsay* Wetumpka John Carroll Catholic* Sylacauga* Shelby County* Talladega* Benjamin Russell *Region game
Location Home Away Home Home Home Home Away Home Away Away
Time 7 p.m. 7 p.m. 7 p.m. 7 p.m. 7 p.m. 7 p.m. 7 p.m. 7 p.m. 7 p.m. 7 p.m.
2012 Results: After moving from 5A to 6A, the Patriots went 9-2 and won the Region 4 championship. The season ended with a shocking first-round playoff loss to Greenville. Head Coach: Doug Goodwin (14-7 in two seasons at Homewood). Key Losses: QB Luke Porter, RB Justin Hardee, C Zach Sims, LB Mark Ross, LB Connor Rivers, LB Forrest Gaines, LB Aaron Avey, OL Jesus Glardo, DE/P Jay Williams. Key Players: OL Jordan Sims, RB Walter Rutledge, S/WR Derico Harris, WR Devontae Wallace, OL Nick Baskin, TE Robert Fittro, RB Devonta Barnfield, DT Dwayne Orso, WR Orlando Swan, TE Sean Eaton.
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Returning starters aim for back-to-back Region titles
Maurice Mayo (22) returns to the Homewood football team with experience at cornerback and running back.
Offensive linemen Justin Davis, Ingram Easter and Jordan Sims, who is being highly recruited by the entire SEC, pave the way for running back Walter Rutledge. Photos courtesy of Doug Goodwin.
A
fter a tough ending to a great season last year, the Homewood football program is gearing up for the 2013 season with lots of returning starters and a big question mark at quarterback. Eight starters return from an offense that averaged almost 40 points a game last season, and many seniors are being recruited by colleges across the Southeast. Head coach Doug Goodwin emphasized that offensive experience would be valuable.
“Experience is this team’s strong point, especially on the offensive side,” Goodwin said. “It’s our third year to be here, so they know what to expect out of us and we know what we’ll get out of them. You can’t replace experience.” However, two important positions have yet to be filled: quarterback and middle linebacker. Those two positions are typically the leaders of the offense and defense. Luke Porter, who also starred as cleanup batter for the Patriots baseball
team, led the football team at quarterback to a 9-2 season last year. His graduation leaves sophomores Carson Griffis and Griffin Rivers and junior Brett White competing for the job. “Our offense depends a lot on who wins the quarterback job,” Goodwin said. “All of them do some things well, and none of them really separated themselves in the spring. I believe we can win with all three of them.” The linebacker corps also lacks experience after the departure
of Mark Ross, Connor Rivers, Forrest Gaines and Aaron Avey. Linebackers are especially important in the 3-4 defensive scheme that Homewood runs. “Linebacker will be the key to our year,” Goodwin said. “We’ve got to find some people that can come in and replace those guys. We run a 3-4 defense, which means everything is tailored around the linebackers, and that’s where we are least experienced.” But those two position battles should not scare any Patriot fans. With returning offensive experience and good coaching, this team is expected to do well after last year’s success. After the school’s move from 6A to 5A last year, Homewood had a good regular season followed by a shocking first round loss. “Our loss in the first round last year was tough,” Goodwin said. “Can’t put it into words. Really disappointing. None of us expected to lose in the first round. We had some injuries and Greenville played really well
and made one more play than we did at the end of the game. It was extremely disappointing, and hopefully we’ll still feel that when we start playing this year.” After this season, several seniors will be looking to play at the next level. Offensive lineman Jordan Sims is being heavily recruited by the entire SEC and power schools like Oklahoma, Nebraska and Florida State. As the Patriots prepare for their 2013 schedule, starting with a tough game against Vestavia Hills that will certainly test the team’s weaknesses, the players and coaches are focusing on improving on the little things, one day at a time. “If we take care of trying to get better each and every day then the bigger stuff takes care of itself in the long run,” Goodwin said. “Naturally, it’s every team’s goal to win as many games as possible and win the state championship. While that stuff crosses our minds, the biggest thing we focus on is just trying to get better each and every day.”
20 • August 2013
The Homewood Star
School House
Fit Friendly at Shades Cahaba
HHS students receive emergency medical training
Principal Sue Grogan and PE teacher Genie Christian.
Shades Cahaba Elementary has been recognized as a Fit Friendly School by the American Heart Association. This program recognizes schools that go the extra mile to help with the health of their faculty, staff and students by creating physical activity programs and healthy eating options. Genie Christian, Shades Cahaba’s physical education teacher, coordinated these efforts for the school.
Seniors receive Rotary scholarships Students learn casting skills in the EMR Certification class at Homewood High School. Photo courtesy of Greg Pendley.
Homewood High School is one of only two schools in the state of Alabama to offer students the opportunity to earn their Emergency Medical Responder (EMR) certification. Through Head Athletic Trainer Greg Pendley’s Sports Medicine Anatomy and Athletic Training classes, students earn the EMR certification. The class is offered in
partnership with Herzing University and Homewood Fire and Rescue. Students learned tasks ranging from lifesaving skills to assisting with many other medical emergencies. Students also participate in many hands-on labs, such as First Aid/CPR/ AED, administering oxygen, placing a patient on a spine board and casting.
New SGA officers elected Officers for the Homewood High School 2013-2014 Executive Council of the Student Government Association were recently elected by the student body. The SGA is under the guidance and leadership of Mindy McBride. The Executive Council officers are:
President: Genny Pittman 1st Vice President: Miller Williams 2nd Vice President: Dixon Simmons Treasurer: Anna Laws Secretary: Elizabeth Hale Parliamentarian: Erin Roberts Historian/PR: Aidan Cavanah
Rotary Scholarship Chair Lawrence Corley, Homewood City Schools Superintendent Dr. Bill Cleveland, Bailey Douthit, Mary Claire Galloway, Tracy Awino, Genesis Barco, Eden Harris, HHS Principal Dr. Zack Barnes and Rotary President Paul Scholl
The Homewood Rotary Club awarded scholarships totaling $13,500 to five 2013 graduates of Homewood High School. Recipients are Tracy Awino, Genesis Barco, Bailey Douthit, Mary Claire Galloway and Eden Harris. Homewood Rotary Club members annually award scholarships to deserving
Homewood students on the basis of academic achievement and participation in school and community activities. This year’s recipients were introduced to club members by education foundation chairman Lawrence Corley at the May meeting at Homewood Public Library. Each spoke of their high school experience and future plans.
August 2013 • 21
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Remembering life at HHS Homewood High School faculty, staff and administrators rode stationary bicycles in classrooms and around common areas in the school for donations during their annual “Bike for Bagwell” fundraiser for Relay for Life/American Cancer Society. The more students donated, the more they had has to pedal. This year, HHS students raised more than $7,500 during this one-day event inspired by former employee Linda Bagwell, who lost her battle with cancer. “If you knew Linda Bagwell, you understand why we honor her with this upcoming special event,” Wellness Coordinator Nivada Spurlock said. “Linda had a constant smile, never had a bad day at work, was always ready to lend a helping hand and was loved by all who knew her. Four years ago when we started Bike for Bagwell, it was to honor Linda in her fight with cancer. A few months after our first event, Linda lost her battle. Her fight lives on during this special event for HCS,” After school, HHS faculty and students walked together to Relay for Life. -Submitted by Homewood City Schools
Performer awarded musical theatre and academic scholarship
Emily Fleisig
By INTISAR SERAAJ-SABREE Homewood High School students from Chet Walker’s economic classes sold T-shirts during Bike for Bagwell to raise money for Relay For Life, which benefits cancer research. Students participating included Eman Antar, Kevin Nixon, Kameron Gunnells, Anna Leigh Tucker, Brent Hughes and Dylan Browning. Photo courtesy of Chet Walker.
Sharing the love Shades Cahaba Elementary School’s Lots of Love club celebrated its fifth cut day celebration with nine girls cutting their hair for charity. The ponytails were sent to Pantene’s Beautiful Lengths and Locks of Love.
New Upholstery Styles 2925 18th Street South, Homewood 205-871-0585 www.harmonylanding.com Monday-Saturday 10 a.m. - 5:30 p.m.
Emily Fleisig, 18-year-old graduate of Indian Springs High School, was awarded the most prestigious musical theatre scholarship at BirminghamSouthern College in addition to the academic achievement scholarship. Fleisig, a Homewood resident, was also accepted into the honors program. In addition to other dance instructors she had since first starting dance lessons at two years old, Fleisig said she appreciates Kelly Holt, her dance instructor for the past decade and owner of Backstage Dance Centre in Homewood, for teaching her confidence, audition preparation and how to uniquely showcase her talents. “I’m getting to live out my dream by getting to go to a place I want to be at and study what I want to study,” Fleisig said. “And it’s close, so I’ll still get to train with Ms. Kelly.” At Backstage Dance Centre, Fleisig trains in musical theatre, jazz and tap.
22 • August 2013
The Homewood Star
HOMEWOOD PARKS & RECREATION Temporary Fitness & Programs Facility
Zumba ZUMBA is Latin inspired aerobic dance and every class feels like a party. ZUMBA is for all ages, and both sexes! You can burn 500 to 1000 calories in one fun hour! Instructor: Camille Scruggs Contact Info: 256-452-2500 or camillescruggs@ gmail.com Location: Temporary Fitness and Programs Facility Days & Times: Monday 5:30-6:30pm Tuesday 5:30-6:30pm Thursday 5:30-6:30pm Saturday 9:00-10:00am
Karate Classes are held at the Temporary Fitness and Programs Facility at various times based on age and level of experience. Monthly tuition is $55 $65. Classes are for children and teenagers ages 4 and up. For more information please contact Master Joe at 966-4244
Kindermusik
As the world’s recognized leader in early childhood music and movement, Kindermusik offers a musical learning adventure that will impact your child now and for years to come! This is accomplished through our extraordinary classroom experience and unsurpassed At Home materials. There’s simply no better way to foster your child’s love of music and love of learning. Classes are available for ages 0 to 5 years. Classes Offered & Schedule: Thursdays 9:30am - Our Time (18 months to 3 years) 10:30am - Our Time (18 months to 3 years) 11:30am - Village (0 to 18 months) Classes have relocated to the Homewood Parks Temporary Fitness and Programs Facility. You can enroll for classes at anytime! For more information call or email Kelly at: (205) 552-6129 (or) Kelly.alligood@charter.net Please visit http://kellyalligood.yourvirtuoso. com for more information or to enroll
Belly Dancing with Aziza Class Location: Temporary Fitness and Programs Facility Class Fee: $60 cash only For more information contact Aziza at 879-0701 or azizaofbirmingham@att.net Learn the ancient art of Middle Eastern belly dance (classic Egyptian style) with Aziza, award winning dancer, with 36 years of experience in performance and instruction. Women only, ages 13 and up are welcome; with no dance experience necessary to enroll. Each session is 5-weeks long on: Tuesday night for beginners, Wednesday night for intermediates and Thursday night for advanced. Times times are 7:00-8:30pm. Beginners start with the basic steps, isolations and shimmies and progress to the intermediate class where you will learn to put the dance together with more advanced steps and combinations plus dancing with the veil; advanced classes include performing with zills, cane, veil with more advanced and longer performances. The classes are for anyone who wants to dance for fun and fitness, as well as those who wish to perform. Aziza has trained dancers to perform for many events in the Southeastern area in addition to dancers who perform regularly at Ali Baba Persian Restaurant in Hoover. www.azizaofbirmingham.com
Young Rembrandts
Draw amazing things with Young Rembrandts! We believe that drawing is a skill that can, and should be learned by all children. Young Rembrandts classes are both fun and educational, and our step-by-step curriculum is developed to teach fundamental art skills in a nurturing environment that gives children an academic advantage. Our classes are for boys and girls 5 to 12 years of age. Classes have relocated to Homewood Parks Temporary Fitness and Programs Facility. Please contact Chris Roberson at (205) 9431923 for more information and to register or visit www.youngrembrandts.com to enroll anytime.
Special Events H.E.A.T (Homewood Back to School Bash at Homewood Explorer Adventure Team) The H.E.A.T. program gives middle school students a Central Park chance to experience athletics, cultural arts and outdoors
Saturday, August 24th 2013 3:00pm-7:00pm The Back to School Bash will be held August 24th from 3:00 – 7:00pm at Homewood Central Park. The event will kick off the new school year with an array of rides, inflatables, food and entertainment. Proceeds from the event go to Homewood High School Band as the prepare to represent our city and state in the 2014 Tournament of Roses Parade in Pasadena, California.
along with providing community service to our local area. These different areas of emphasis are designed to develop well rounded young adults both socially and culturally. Registration Period: August 12th thru September 13th Monday thru Friday 8:30am – 5:30pm – Temporary Fitness & Programs Facility Business Office Program Fee: $75 Per Participant (Homewood Residents only -- grades 6th – 8th) For more information please contact: Alissa Thurmond 332-6715 -- alissa.thurmond@ homewoodal.org David Primus 332-6182 – david.primus@homewoodal.org
@homewoodparks
Athletics
Homewood Patriot Youth Baseball
The Homewood Patriot Youth Baseball League is a youth recreational baseball league for the citizens of Homewood, as well as, surrounding communities. The HPYBL board works with the Homewood Parks and Recreation Board in scheduling games/practices. Please visit our website for more information about the upcoming fall season. www.homewoodyouthbaseball.com
Homewood Soccer Club
Patriot Recreation League registrations end in the month of August. Patriots: For age groups U-4 through U-8. Players play once a week with a practice followed by a game. U-8 players have a one time a week practice and play a game on Saturday each week. For all Patriot ages it is an intramural program without any travel. For detailed information about levels of play, deadlines, fees and Club philosophy visit our website at www.HomewoodSoccer.com , or call David Putman, Soccer Director, at 979-8974
2013 Fall Softball Information Registration Period: August 5th – 23rd Register at: Temporary Fitness & Program Facility (Former Jefferson County Courthouse) 809 Greensprings Highway Homewood, Alabama 35209 (Monday – Friday 8:30am – 5:30pm) Costs: $30 Homewood Residents / $40 Non-Homewood Residents Age Divisions: 8 and Under / 10 and Under / 12 and Under *Fall Ball playing age uses the age group you will play in the spring of 2014.* Evaluations / First practice will be Sunday August 25th. Registrations will not be taken on August 25th Additional Fall season information will be released as details are finalized: Jakob Stephens at 332-6709 (or) jakob.stephens@homewoodal.org
Homewood Senior Center Clay Class with Jo Ann
Mondays at 2:15pm Recently retired Edgewood Elementary teacher Joann Brown will facilitate this class for adults age 55-and-up. Joann holds 3 different Alabama teacher certifications, one of which is art. Projects created in the class will be suitable for display and gift-giving. Participants will hand-build objects of clay and glaze them for firing in the kiln. Free to Senior Center members. Space is limited, so those interested should call Center Director Aimee Thornton to register or get on the waiting list: 332-6502.
Zumba / RIPPED Fitness with Ashley Harris
Where: Homewood Senior Center Auditorium When: Tuesday’s 5:50pm – 6:50pm Open to the public; all ages welcome! For info/registration, contact Ashley Harris at 212-4697 or zumbajam@ yahoo.com
Senior Nutrition Program for Citizens age 60+
In-house congregate lunch, Mon-Fri; Meals-on-Wheels* lunch, Mon-Fri. *must meet certain government-specified criteria for meal delivery Homewood Senior Center is a host site for the program. Lunch is served at Noon. Must be registered to participate Eligible participants are asked to make a voluntary donation of $1.50 per meal. For registration form & information, call Eloise Smith at 332-6503 or stop by the Senior Center before 3:00pm. Administered through the Jefferson County Office of Senior Citizen Services
www.Homewoodparks.com
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TheHomewoodStar.com
Retired principals leave a mark By MEGAN SMITH & MADOLINE MARKHAM Sue Grogan Shades Cahaba Elementary In 2006, Shades Cahaba Elementary became the first school in the country to be named a National School of Character by the Character Education Partnership, and in 2012 it again received the honor. Many will tell you the reason is Sue Grogan. “That award sums up the legacy she has left the school,” Homewood Middle School Principal Linda Erickson said. “She would never take credit for it personally, but she has been so instrumental in creating an environment that led the school receiving that award.” Edgewood Principal Tricia Simpson agreed: “Shades Cahaba is known for serving others because that is what [Sue] brings to the table. She has a spirit of giving back to the community and being part of the community. She is the reason Shades Cahaba students have such an opportunity to serve and to learn about services.” Grogan, who retired from serving as the school’s principal in May, began her career as an admissions counselor at BirminghamSouthern College before becoming a classroom teacher in 1974. In 1988, Grogan came to Homewood as a guidance counselor at Shades Cahaba, and later became the assistant principal. She served as the school’s principal for 13 years. “She is through and through a leader and does so with a teacher’s heart,” Shades Cahaba Assistant Principal John Lowry said. “It’s impressive that she has been a leader for so long but never loses focus on enriching the lives of whatever kids walk through the front door. She is extraordinary at being able to maintain that focus and do what’s best for the families and students we serve at Shades Cahaba.” Erickson, a friend of Grogan since college, also recognized how Grogan always put
After 40 years of service to Hall-Kent Elementary, Principal Carol Lord retired at the end of last school year.
Carol Lord Halls-Kent Elementary
Shades Cahaba Principal Sue Grogan, who retired in May, spends time with second graders Brisa Adan Roman, Tiger Lily Taylor and Grayton Murray on the school’s steps.
students first. “[Sue] has a wonderful capacity to care about children and be able to objectively do what’s best for them. Even when it may not be the easiest way to go, she feels it is right,” Erickson said. “That’s always what motivates her and is behind every decision she makes. It is a wonderful example for all of us.”
Carol Lord has dedicated the last 40 years of her life to ensuring that students who pass through the halls of Hall-Kent Elementary receive the best developmental education the school can offer them. Lord began her teaching career at Hall-Kent in 1973, when she served as a first-grade teacher. She then became the school’s Title I reading specialist, and in 1998 she served as the interim assistant principal. The following year, Lord was named Hall-Kent’s assistant principal, and in 2002, she became the school’s principal. “She’s left a legacy at Hall-Kent by treating the students, faculty and staff like family,” said Becky Salls, a 32-year teacher at Hall-Kent and longtime colleague and friend of Lord. “She wanted what’s best for the students and the school, and I think
that’s what guided her through the years.” According to Salls, Lord leaves a legacy of instilling the love of reading and a respect for school in the students. “I think the way she carried herself had an impact on the school,” Salls said. “She always had a smile on her face. She handled every situation with dignity and fairness.” Each year at the school’s Fall Festival, Lord and her friend, school counselor Jackie Hughes-Merrill, would auction off a “spend the night at the school party.” The winners would get to spend the night with their princicpal and counselor, play games, and eat what Lord and Hughes-Merrill baked for them. “She loved this community and she loved the kids,” Salls said. “The kids felt comfortable going to her and being around her. Her focus was always what was best for the kids and what was best for Hall-Kent”
24 • August 2013
The Homewood Star
Back-to-school style pairings By MADOLINE MARKHAM
Print + Versatile Solids
Pair different solid tops with a fashionable skirt like this high-waist black and white geometric piece by Lila ($42) from Festivity. Here, a Dynamic camisole ($12) and Fiancee sweater ($34) make a light, late summer ensemble to coordinate with gold earrings ($20) and Lily and Laura beaded bracelets ($12). Festivity recommends matching the skirt with boots and a blue jean jacket into the fall.
As you and your kids get ready to head back to school, stop by your favorite Homewood shops to try one of these fashionable pairings.
Tangerine + Turquoise
Tangerine and turquoise marry for a standout combination. Add a pop of orange to your neckline with this oval bib necklace ($30) from Cureture, or accessorize your wrist. A Spring Street ring ($22) adds a flair of bling to the Towne Reese turquoise and gold link bracelet ($30) and orange cuff horse bit bracelet ($36).
Dress + Leggings
Mix and match a variety of styles of patterned dresses and leggings (dress $29, leggings $24) from Tea Collection at Jack n’ Jill. Tea, which makes sizes 2T-12, visits a different country every season to get inspiration for designing their oneof-a-kind prints. This season’s inspiration country is China.
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Pastel + Peplum
Pair pastels like these Elan yellow jeggings ($45) and peplum aqua top ($59) from 28:20 Boutique with brown accents to wear them into the fall. The Kerisma cardigan ($65) features sheer detail on shoulder. A long pearl strand ($39) completes the look.
FALL 2013 RECREATIONAL SOCCER LOCATIONS CENTRAL TO MTN BROOK, HOMEWOOD VESTAVIA, AND 280! SOCCER REGISTRATION! NOW OPEN! STARTS: S TARRT TA TS: AUG & SEPT 2013 2013! BOYS & GIRLS AGES: 3-18! LOCATIONS: CENTRAL (HWY 31) LIBERTY PARK SOCCER COMPLEX SICARD HOLLOW ATHLETIC COMPLEX
www.vestaviasoccer.com
August 2013 • 25
TheHomewoodStar.com
ROSE PARADE from pg 1
have stood up to ensure everyone gets to go. After all, the band makes up a massive part of Homewood’s identity. It’s the largest high school band in the state of Alabama, boasting more than 350 members in a student body of approximately 1,000. To help Homewood reach its funding goals, R. Scott Jenkins, president of the 125th Tournament of the Roses Parade, will visit Homewood from Wednesday, Aug. 28-Saturday, Aug. 31. He plans to meet the band, learn more about the city and attend Homewood’s March to the Roses Gala on Thursday, Aug. 29. “I’m looking forward to visiting them and learning more about the community down there,” Jenkins said. Jenkins said he is excited to see the Patriot band perform live, complimenting its style and expertise and calling attention to the uniforms he dubbed “extraordinary.” “They have that three-cornered hat that makes them quite unique,” he said. While Jenkins is here, he will attend various attractions in the area. The Little Donkey and GianMarcos will supply meals for Jenkins’ stay. He will tour Homewood schools and meet local leaders including Mayor Scott McBrayer and Homewood City Schools Superintendent Bill Cleveland. On Thursday, Jenkins will explore Tuscaloosa and take tour of the athletic facility and stadium at The University of Alabama, his father’s alma mater. Jenkins has been with the tournament for 31 years and on the track to fill this year’s presidency since 2006. It is his responsibility to choose a theme and a Grand Marshal for the 2014 parade as well as formally welcome each band to the Tournament of Roses. He plans to do so in Homewood Friday, Aug. 30 at when Homewood plays Vestavia Hills High in football. While in town, Jenkins’ biggest appearance will be the March to the Roses Gala presented by the Patriot Band’s Booster mothers on Aug. 29. The goal for the Gala is to raise $75,000 by holding a live and a silent auction. The event will feature adult beverages, heavy hors d’oeuvre catered by All Around Town and a drum line performance. It will be held at SoHo’s Rosewood Hall from 6-9 p.m. Ticket cost is $40. The $75,000 figure supplements some of the nearly $1,800 per-person cost of travelling to Pasadena for the Tournament of the Roses. With more than 400 planning to make the trip, total cost could approach $700,000. Members of the band are inviting the entire city to the event. “It’s our opportunity to show off the South and our great community,” Cooper said. “We want all the old band students, their parents and all of Homewood to come out and relive when their kids got to go through this.” The silent auction features donations from around Homewood and more such as a backyard pig roast from The Little Donkey. The Donkey will bring a whole pig, a spit, sides and servers to your backyard to put on a whole party for you – then clean up after.
Donating to the cause Local businesses that have contributed to the Marching Patriots’ fundraising efforts:
AKA Girl Stuff Alabama Goods All Around Town Catering aLoft Another Broken Egg Applause Dancewear At Home Burr & Forman, LLP Café Iz Crown Automobile D1 Fitness Demetri’s BBQ Dorothy McDaniel’s Flowers Edgewood Frame Shop Eighteenth Street Orientals Freshfully Gary Asher Drum School GianMarco’s Hunter’s Cleaners Jack n Jill Jinsei Sushi Lee Anne McCalley, Artist
To name a few more: the Alabama Booksmith donated a signed copy of My Reading Life by Pat Conroy; aLoft, a night’s stay; Michael’s, a dinner; Gary Asher Drum School, a five-piece drum set signed by drummers from the bands from Cher to Pink, Lenny Kravitz, Lisa Marie Presley, Alabama, Dolly Parton and Brad Paisley also includes a three-month one-onone drum lessons. D1 Fitness contributed a one-year membership; Barber Motorsports, an inside tour of the Barber Motorsports Park for four; and LeeAnne McCully, a painting. “A lot of the Homewood business have stepped up to help us with this,” Pence said. “We’ve got a lot of people in the community working to make this a real special Homewood event, Birmingham event and a state of Alabama event. It puts us all on the international stage.” As the representatives behind the Jenkins’ visit begin finalizing his trip, Pence, Cooper and their team are just beginning. A four-day band camp ran in July to choreograph the halftime show, and rehearsals are scheduled to resume to a couple of days a week as the semester begins. “It’s very important we rehearse with a purpose,” Pence said. Duncan anticipates more strenuous practices in the future but knows she will always love band. “Band is one of my favorite things,” Duncan said.
LeeAnn Allen Let’s Get Organized Little Donkey Little Professor Magic Muffins Michael’s Restaurant Molly Green Purre Bar Resa Nelson, Airbonne Consultant Riviera Fitness Samford University Shaia’s Sikes Soca Girl Spain & Gillon, LLP Steed’s Jewelry Table Matters Taco Casa The Alabama Booksmith The Sanctuary The Swanky Stork The University of Alabama Total Skin and Beauty UPS Store, Homewood
Anyone wishing to make a monetary or silent auction donation or needing further information on attending the event can contact Mary Paris at paris2teach@gmail.com or Laurie Zelinski at llduncan@bellsouth.net. Tickets can be purchased online at homewoodal.csiepay.com.
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26 • August 2013
The Homewood Star
Calendar Homewood Events
Light repairs to new construction Free estimates
“Attention to Detail Matters”
Aug. 1: Live @ O’Henry’s Coffee. Live music series held by the Homewood Arts Council. Event to be held at Colonial Brookwood Village location. 7 p.m. Free. Visit facebook.com/ HomewoodArtsCouncil. Aug. 3: Characters for a Cure Breakfast. Applebees at Brookwood Mall, 8-10 a.m. Benefits the American Cancer Society. Contact Kristi Lovell at Kristi.Lovell@cancer.org or 930-8869. Aug. 3: Back to School Bash. Homewood Church of Christ, 8 a.m.noon. Visit homewoodchurch.org. Aug. 3 & 10: Homewood Farmers Market. SoHo Parking Lot, 2850 19th Street South, 8 a.m.-noon. Visit urbancookhouse.com. Aug. 5-9: Once Upon a Time Theatre Camp. Samford University, Studio 60 & Harrison Theatre. For grades first through sixth. Visit events.samford.edu. Aug. 7: Turn It Up: Water Night. Homewood Church of Christ, 6:30 p.m. Visit homewoodchurch.org. Aug. 8: Live @ Seeds Coffee. 7 p.m. Free. Visit facebook.com/ HomewoodArtsCouncil.
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Aug. 10: Community Garden Work Day. Former Homewood Middle School site. 8 a.m. Email hcsgarden@gmail.com or visit homewoodcommunitygarden. blogspot.com.
Aug. 11: CDF Community Fest. Children’s Dance Foundation, 2 p.m. Free admission. Call 870-0073 or visit childrensdancefoundation.org. Aug. 11: Opening Reception for Kay Vinson Exhibit. The Joy Gallery, Homewood Cumberland Presbyterian Church, 513 Columbiana Road. 1-3 p.m. Call 942-3051. Aug. 11-Sept.29: Kay Vinson Exhibit. The Joy Gallery, Homewood Cumberland Presbyterian Church, 513 Columbiana Road. Gallery open Monday-Friday from 9 a.m.-2 p.m. Call 942-3051. Aug. 15: West Homewood Farmer’s Market Night Market. 160 West Oxmoor Road. 6-9 p.m. Visit westhomewood.com. Aug. 15: Live @ O’Henry’s Coffee. Event to be held at 18th Street location. 7 p.m. Free. Visit facebook. com/HomewoodArtsCouncil. Aug. 16: Homewood Middle School Football Jersey Night. Waldrop Stadium, 6 p.m. Aug. 20: Homewood Chamber of Commerce August Membership Luncheon. The Club, 11:30 a.m. Guest speaker Terry Chapman will speak on “Simple Steps for Business Process Improvement.” Visit homewoodchamber.com.
Aug. 22: Homewood Middle School vs. Bumpus Middle School Jamboree. Homewood Middle School, 5 p.m. seventh grade and 6:45 p.m. eighth grade. Aug. 22: Live @ Hart & Soul. 7 p.m. Free. Visit facebook.com/ HomewoodArtsCouncil. Aug. 22: ADHD. House Calls Interactive Series. Homewood Public Library. 6-8 p.m. $15 per person. Register at housecalls.eventbright. com. Call 623-2171.
Aug. 24: Back to School Bash. Homewood Central Park, 3-7 p.m. Wristbands for unlimited rides are $10. Visit homewoodparks.com or contact Rusty Holley at rusty.holley@ homewoodal.org. Aug. 25: Dementia Care Info Session. Homewood Church of Christ, 2 p.m. For more, visit homewoodchurch.org. Aug. 27: “A Safe & Healthy Homewood.” Homewood Middle School, 11:15 a.m.-1:15 p.m.
Aug. 22: A Hero’s Welcome. Lakeshore Foundation, 5:30 p.m. Tickets $75 for members and $150 for the publicContact Kristen Evans at 313-7482 or kristene@lakeshore.org.
Aug. 29: Homewood Middle School Volleyball vs. Clay & Hewitt-Trussville Middle Schools. Homewood Middle School, 5 p.m. seventh grade and 7 p.m. eighth grade.
Aug. 23: Spain Park vs. Homewood Jamboree Football. Spain Park High School, 7-9:30 p.m.
Aug. 29: Homewood High School Varsity & Junior Varsity Volleyball vs. Wenonah High School. Homewood High School, time TBA.
Aug. 23: Evening Dance. Homewood Senior Center, 6:30-9:30 p.m. Tickets $5 for members and $10 non-members. Refreshments will be served and live music played by Ray Reach & Friends. Call 332-6500 or visit homewoodparks.com. Aug. 24: The Tailgate Challenge. Carmike Cinemas’ parking lot in The Summit, 11 a.m.- 2 p.m. Proceeds benefit The Bell Center. Visit thebellcenter.org or contact Kelly Peoples at 879-3417.
Aug. 29: Homewood Middle School vs. Berry Middle School. Homewood Middle School, 5 p.m. seventh grade and 6:45 p.m. eighth grade. Aug. 29-30: Rose Parade President Visit. Homewood High School. Aug. 30: Homewood High School vs. Vestavia Hills High School. Homewood High School Football Field, 7 p.m.
Homewood Public Library Events
Better Newspaper,
Children’s Programming
Bring a blanket or chairs.
Aug. 5: Sidewalk Chalk Art. 10:30 a.m. Outside parking lot.
Adult Programming
Better Community.
Aug. 5: Calligraphy. 1 p.m. Registration required and begins Aug. 1 at 10:00 a.m. To register, call 332-6619. Aug. 6: The Art of Cooking. 10:30 a.m. Taught by Angela Treadaway. For rising first through fifth graders. Registration required, and begins Aug. 1 at 10 a.m. To register call 332-6619. Aug. 7: The Art of Making Music. 10:30 a.m. For rising third through fifth graders. Registration required and begins Aug. 1 at 10 a.m. To register call 332-6619. Aug. 8: The Art of Movement. 6:15 p.m. Get the whole family rocking and rolling with movement and dance. Aug. 9: Lego Sculpture. 10:30 a.m. Registration required and begins Aug. 1 at 10 a.m. The program is limited to ages 5-12. To register, call 332-6619. August 8: Rolling Back to School Event. 6:15 p.m. Featuring Carter Yahoo Band and food trucks.
The Homewood Star Recipient of the 2013 Public Service Award Alabama Press Association Better Newspaper Contest
Aug. 2: The 5 Essentials of Health with Dr. Krystal: Nutrition. Large Auditorium. 11 a.m. Aug. 9: The 5 Essentials of Health with Dr. Krystal: Regulating Your Blood Sugar. Large Auditorium. 11 a.m. Aug. 13: The Oxmoor Page Turners Book Club. Boardroom. 6:30 pm. Explore the young adult novel The Absolutely True Diary of a Part-Time Indian by Sherman Alexie. Aug. 15: Book Talk & Book Signing with Author Avery Yearby. Round Auditorium. 6 p.m. Welcome author Avery Yearby as he discusses his memoir about his life with Myasthenia Gravis, benefitting The MG Society. Aug. 20: The A,B,C’s of Medicare. Room 116. Noon & 6 p.m. Aug. 21: The Better than Therapy Book Club. Boardroom. 2 p.m. Discuss Kate Atkinson’s poignant Life After Life.
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TheHomewoodStar.com
Calendar Community Events Aug. 1: 3rd Annual Taste of Birmingham. The Club, 1 Robert S. Smith Drive, 6-9 p.m. Tickets $75 in advance and $85 the day of. Benefits Birmingham Boys Choir. For tickets call 767-9219 or email susansimon@birminghamboyschoir. com. Visit thetasteofbirmingham.com.
members, $7 for visitors Membership joining fee is $6. For more, call 560-0706.
Aug. 1-30: Titans of the Ice Age – IMAX. McWane Science Center. 10:30 a.m., 12:30 p.m. and 2:30 p.m. Adult tickets are $8.50 and $7.50 for children and seniors. Call 714-8300 or visit mcwane.org.
Aug. 17: Boiling N’ Bragging. Otey’s Tavern, 6-9 p.m. Tickets $20 in advance, $25 at the door, free for kids. Benefitting Critical Care Transport at Children’s of Alabama. Register online at boilingnbragging.org. Call 332-7571 or visit childrensal.org.
Aug. 1-30: Birmingham Ghost Walk. Linn Park. Fridays and Saturdays 8 p.m. and 9:30 p.m. Tickets $15 for adults and $7 for children. Spooky tales of the paranormal, the sordid and the debaucherous history of downtown Birmingham are revealed on these walking tours. Call Wolfgang Poe at 440-2720, email gypsywolfmagic@gmail.com or visit wolfgangpoe.com. Aug. 2-4: Sales Tax Holiday. State, county and city governments will participate. Visit revenue. alabama.gov/salestax/SalesTaxHol.cfm. Aug. 2-6: Birmingham Barons Baseball vs. Pensacola Blue Wahoos. Regions Field, Friday & Monday-Tuesday 7:05 p.m., Saturday 6:30 p.m., Sunday 3 p.m. $7 general admission, $12 Magic City View & Field Reserved, $9 Baseline Box, $14 Dugout Premium. $1 discount for children 12 and under, senior citizens and military. Call 988-3200 or visit barons.com. Aug. 12: Glow for a Cure. Highland Park Golf Course, 4-10 p.m. Tickets are $200 per golfer and $25 for spectators, and include a BBQ dinner. A night golf tournament to benefit Alzheimer’s of Central Alabama’s research grant program. Call 871-7970 or email vholder@alzca.org. Aug. 15: Mentor/Mentee Bridge Series. Birmingham Duplicate Bridge Club. Games $6 for
Aug. 16-25: Birmingham Restaurant Week. Featured restaurants will offer special two and/ or three-course prix-fixe lunch and/or dinner menus. Visit bhamrestaurantweek.com.
Aug. 21-25: UniverSoul Circus. Legion Field Stadium, Wednesday-Thursday 7:30 p.m.; Friday 10:30 a.m. & 7:30 p.m.; Saturday noon, 4 & 7:30 p.m.; Sunday 1, 4 & 7 p.m. UniverSoul Circus is rated as one of the top three circuses in America. Call 800-745-3000, or visit universoulcircus.com or ticketmaster.com. Aug. 23: 5th Annual Sips for CF Wine Tasting Competition. Kress Building, 301 19th Street North, 7 p.m. Tickets $25 the day of, or $20 in advance by visiting LapsForCF.org or calling 871-9140. This event features food and drinks, live music, a silent auction and free parking at the Park Rite parking deck, benefitting The Laps for Cystic Fibrosis Foundation. For more, email lauren@lapsforcf.org. Aug. 23-25: 15th Annual Sidewalk Moving Picture Festival. Alabama Theatre. Friday 8-10 p.m., Saturday & Sunday 10 a.m.-10 p.m. Most events are free, but admission to certain events ranges from $15-$92. Call 324-0888 or visit sidewalkfest.com. Aug. 24: 33rd Annual Hope Gala. This is the American Cancer Society’s largest fundraiser in Birmingham, including live and silent auctions, cocktails and dinner. Call 930-8883 or visit hopegalabirmingham.org.
Opinion Ordinary Days By Lauren Denton Unsolicited advice for the mother-to-be This time last year, I was and shuffled back to bed. Maybe I newly home from the hospital should have suggested to Leigh that with a second baby girl in tow. A she purchase a few bags of extrayear later, she’s army-crawling strong coffee (or maybe smelling everywhere, and my family is salts) to get herself going in the eagerly awaiting the arrival of my mornings. brother and sister-in-law’s new I also didn’t tell her that at some baby in Atlanta. point she will likely doubt her At my sister-in-law Leigh’s abilities as a parent. Judging by baby shower a couple of months how out of my element I felt and ago, everyone wrote down a bit of by how many of my friends told Denton baby advice to give to her later. I me they felt the same thing, I think wanted to say so many things, but I knew not doubting your parenting skills is almost a rite all of them would have been welcome advice of passage for new moms. for someone about to have her first baby. You can read all the books ever written on I didn’t tell her about the strange things the subject of parenting, but nothing can teach pregnancy things can do to a girl. Leigh had you what to do at 3 a.m. when it seems no one already been forgetting little things here and in the whole world is awake but you and this there, a sure sign of pregnancy brain. I didn’t tiny, writhing, red-faced little creature. It can mention to her that mine was so bad one day make you think you’ll never be good enough while pregnant with my first daughter Kate that, and never figure it all out. No parent will ever while attempting to drive from Birmingham to figure it all out, but I wish I had told her to Mobile to visit family, I drove two hours south to listen up when her friends and family tell her Greenville, stopped to get something to eat, then she is a good mother — because she will be. hopped back on I-65 North instead of South. What I did tell her is to try to enjoy it all My pregnancy-fogged brain allowed me to as much as possible because the days can be drive 45 minutes back to Montgomery before long but the years are short. I’ve had many I realized what I had done. I probably should days that seemed to last 48 hours instead of have told Leigh make sure she plugs her 24, days when all four of us wanted to pull our directions into the GPS, just to be sure. hair out and run for the hills. But overall, we’ve I didn’t tell her how intense the sleep experienced boatloads of sweetness with our deprivation can be once you’re home with your two girls. Unbelievably, that little creature who first child. One morning, after a particularly so confounded me that first night (and who still bad night of trying to coerce little Kate into often confounds me!) is now almost four and sleeping, I wandered into the den holding her my second baby is one year old. The years are in my arms. definitely short. My husband Matt was getting ready for Lastly, I told her to have a glass of wine at work, but thankfully, both my parents were night if she needs it! It won’t hurt the baby still there. I mumbled, “Who wants her?”, and it can only help a shell-shocked, sleephanded her over to the first pair of arms I saw, deprived, love-struck mama.
28 • August 2013
The Homewood Star
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