The Homewood Star Volume 4 | Issue 7 | October 2014
Dog heaven
neighborly news & entertainment for Homewood
Spreading the word
A new dog park has opened at Red Mountain Park. Find the details inside.
Community page A9
Fall Home Guide
Event to help share facts about teen marijuana use By MADOLINE MARKHAM
Fall is the perfect time for do-it-yourself projects and home improvements. Inside we provide ideas and tips in our Home and Garden section.
Data has shown that Homewood students’ marijuana use is above the national average, and now the community is seeking to change that. One marker of this statistic is the 2013 Pride Survey, an anonymous survey of middle and high school students that has been considered the official measure of American adolescent drug use since 1998. In the study, 27.9 percent of Homewood High School seniors reported having used marijuana, as compared to 22.2
percent nationally. For Homewood sophomores, 17 percent reported using it, which was 0.8 percent above the national average. There is also increasing cause for concern about marijuana use due to the increase of its potency, according to Carissa Anthony, prevention and development coordinator for Homewood City Schools. In 2012, concentrations of THC, the psychoactive ingredient in marijuana that makes users high, averaged close to 15 percent, compared to around 4 percent in the 1980s, according to the National Institute on
See page A16
Drug Abuse. Knowing these things, Anthony is spearheading plans for a forum on marijuana use in teens to be held Tuesday, Oct. 28, at Homewood High School. The free event is hosted by the Safe & Healthy Homewood Coalition in conjunction with Bradford Health Services and the Addiction Prevention Coalition. That evening’s speaker, Dr. Kevin A. Sabet, who has more than 18 years of experience
See MARIJUANA | page A14
Bewitched
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Witches of Homewood take to the streets on bikes By MADOLINE MARKHAM
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Homewood High School Peer Helpers Sarah Tyndall, Maggie Truit, Catherine Quisenberry and Joy Korley practice a skit to teach elementary students to stay drug-free during Red Ribbon Week. Photo by Karim Shamsi-Basha.
Thee Homewood Witches Ride will take place in memory of organizer Janie Meyer’s mom, who organized a similar event in Florida. Photo courtesy of Beth Hontzas.
Bikes will become brooms on Halloween eve. Decked out in colorful striped leggings and black brimmed hats of all shapes and sizes, hundreds of witches will cruise through Homewood’s streets, cackling with joy and tossing candy to those they pass. Just as the Homewood Witches Ride’s founder would have liked, the procession has one primary aim — fun.
This is the second year in a row Janie Ford Mayer has organized the ride in memory of her mom, Paula Stringfellow Ford, who planned an annual Witches of South Walton event in Florida until she passed away from lung cancer in early 2013. “She lived to dress up and do anything fun like that,” Mayer said. “She would always want us to do something fun and keep her happy spirit going.”
See WITCHES | page A15
The Homewood Star
A2 • October 2014
About Us Photo of the Month
Please Support our Community Partners
Homewood High School students dump ice water on members of the Homewood Board of Education during the school’s first pep rally of the season. Mayor Scott McBrayer and the Homewood Park Board both challenged the school board to complete the ALS Ice Bucket Challenge. Photo by Scott Butler.
Send your submissions for Photo of the Month to editor@thehomewoodstar.com
Editor’s Note By Madoline Markham Halloween is not my favorite. Somewhere on my journey into adulthood, coming up with a costume became a chore, and the realm of anything scary has never been the slightest bit enjoyable to me. Bah humbug, I have become a boring, serious adult. But then, enter witches. Last Oct. 30, I showed up to Janie Meyer’s Witches Ride, camera in tow, to find a cackle of whimsical witches whose sense of joy and enjoyment was contagious. Yes, they were doing something meaningful for the American Cancer Society and in memory of Janie’s mom, but the vibe
that overflowed as they hopped on their bike “brooms” and flocked toward Central Avenue was pure fun. Maybe there’s a place for seeking the pleasure of camaraderie in costume that I have been missing, I thought. Maybe the merriment I found in traipsing around my neighborhood in a Cinderella dress so long it frayed on the bottom as a kid can be reclaimed, even in a time in life that requires responsibility and such. Even if you don’t join the witches this year, for sure try to go out and watch them on their route. You might even catch some candy — the part of
Halloween that never ceases to excite me. Fortunately for us in Homewood, there are also plenty of other opportunities for fun this month too. You can run for fresh food for or for ribs, or take part in one of many fall festivals at churches, Hall-Kent Elementary and more. Cheers to the fun of seasonal festivities! Oct. 26: 11th Annual Arts & Crafts Show and Sale. 9 a.m.-noon. Our Lady of Sorrows Catholic Church Family Life Center. Handmade items include paintings, pottery, aprons, jewelry and rosaries. Free. Call 8718121.
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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.
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Alabama Allergy & Asthma Center (A13) Alabama Outdoors (A14) Alabama Power (B3) Aloft Birmingham SOHO Square (B1) ARC Realty (A12) Batts’ Chimney Services (A21) Bedzzz Express (A24) Birmingham Botanical Gardens (A11) Brighter Image Dentistry (B5) Bromberg & Company, Inc. (A9) Case Remodeling (B14) Christopher Glenn (A18) Classic Events (B15) Classic Iron Works (A19) Construx (A22) Cryotherapy Birmingham (B7) Edgewood Presbyterian Church (B4) First Lenders Mortgage Corp. (B9) Fred Smith Group (A9) Granite Transformations (A21) Great Clips (A7) Hollywood Pools Outdoor Finishings & Spas (A23) Home Care Associates (B4) Homewood Family and Cosmetic Dentistry (A7) Homewood Parks and Rec (B13) Homewood Toy & Hobby (A8) Indian Springs School (B7) Issis & Sons (A17) Iz Cafe (B14) Johnny Montgomery Realtor (A11) Julie Ivy White (B9) Levy’s Fine Jewelry (A1) Mary House Kessler, Ph.D (B11) Michael’s Restaurant (A3) Mike Hale for Sheriff (B10) Morningside at Riverchase (B2) On Time Service (B11) Oxmoor Valley Orthodontics (A13) Phone Restore (A10) Regency Retirement Village (A4) Salem’s Diner (A14) Sikes Childrens Shoes (B10) Silver Lining Consignment Boutique (A8) Simply Ponds (A14) Skin Wellness Center of Alabama (B12) Supreme Lending (A3) Sweet Peas Garden Shop (A20) The Maids (A19) The Wade Team (A6) UAB Callahan Eye Hospital (A15) UAB School of Public Health (B13) Vision Gymnastics (A6) Vitalogy Wellness Center (A5) Vitalogy Wellness Center (B6) Weigh To Wellness (B8) Western Drapery Inc. (A18)
TheHomewoodStar.com
October 2014 • A3
Mayor’s Minute Dear friends and neighbors, Today I had the privilege of attending the annual 9/11 Remembrance Service hosted by Vestavia Hills. Each year, the cities of Homewood, Mountain Brook and Vestavia Hills rotate hosting the ceremony beginning at 8:30 a.m. I’m always so proud of our men and women in Homewood who serve our city and serve our country. We have many employees within our city who also serve in the military, and it’s a nice way to honor them while remembering those lost in service. As I sat and listened to the speaker this morning, I couldn’t help but be thankful the act of terrorism did not happen here. But I also know that if it did, our employees would serve just as bravely as the men and women in New York. I’m grateful our firemen respond mostly to medically issues in Homewood, but you never know what the next call will be. Our police officers respond mostly to routine situations, but again, they never know what’s around the corner. Please remember to keep our employees in your prayers as they go about serving every day. My prayer is for their day to be uneventful and for them to return safely to their families. By the time you read this article, leaves will most likely be starting to fall. Please remember if you bag your leaves, they can be removed in a more timely manner. For those of you who rake your leaves to the curb, I would ask again you not place them in the streets. By raking leaves in the streets, it is more likely they end up in our sewer, which causes more problems. It is very helpful to rake the leaves to the edge of the curb but leave them in your yard. It makes the job of those gathering the leaves much easier and safer. The final Park and Recreation numbers are in from this past summer. This year, more than 60,000 Homewood residents attended the new pool. That number is more than double
any previous year in Homewood. Residents of surrounding cities continue to call to request to join our park system, but we have denied them, giving our residents first priority. It’s a major compliment to our Park Board and to all of you who supported the building of the new facilities. Thank you for your support and for your involvement in our wonderful city. We are currently discussing more business opportunities for Homewood and the continuation of projects. I look forward to providing updates on those in the very near future. It’s an honor serving as your mayor, and I appreciate you for giving me this opportunity. Sincerely,
Scott McBrayer Mayor City of Homewood
New Orleans-style building could come to West Oxmoor
A building with New Orleans-style architecture could be constructed in the lot at the corner of Oak Grove Road and West Oxmoor Road.
By SYDNEY CROMWELL A piece of the Bayou might make its way to Homewood. At its Sept. 8 meeting, the city council agreed to begin negotiating a price with potential buyers of a vacant lot at the corner of West Oxmoor Road and Oak Grove Road. If a deal is reached, Council President Bruce Limbaugh said the buyers plan to create a twostory, multi-use building called The Grove
on the lot, which is next to Patriot Park. The Grove would be designed in the architectural style of New Orleans, the hometown of one of the buyers. “You literally look at it and think you’re walking down St. Charles [Avenue],” Limbaugh said. Limbaugh said the council will “do everything they can” to support the project.
The Homewood Star
A4 • October 2014
New budget being finalized By SYDNEY CROMWELL The month-long planning process has just finished for the City of Homewood’s 2014-2015 budget. Mayor Scott McBrayer presented the highlights of his proposed budget to council members at the Aug. 25 city council meeting. His total budget of $55.7 million includes $40.8 million for the general fund, $5 million for the capital projects fund and $4.8 million for debt service. The Board of Education was allotted $15.1 million. McBrayer noted that due to limited revenue, some of the year’s capital projects would have to be prioritized, especially the West Oxmoor Road project. McBrayer asked the council members to consider cost-saving measures on health insurance and whether there would be enough surplus in the budget to provide employee bonuses at the end of the year. The council members were given copies of the complete proposed budget, and it was sent to the finance committee for review. The council voted on the revised budget at its Sept. 22 meeting. Visit thehomewoodstar.com for more about the final version of the budget. Carr Avenue will have new no-parking zones in the future.
Parking changes on Carr Avenue By SYDNEY CROMWELL A new city ordinance is changing parking rules on Carr Avenue and making the area more like a shopping district. At its Aug. 25 meeting, the city council approved a plan to paint curbs on Carr
yellow to designate no-parking zones. New parallel spaces will be added on the section of Saulter Road that intersects Carr Avenue and Broadway Street. Mayor Scott McBrayer originally proposed these changes because parking on Carr Avenue congested the street and
made it impossible for fire engines to drive through while responding to calls. The council approved a total of $31,000 for the project, which will include the installation of decorative lights, trashcans and other fixtures in the area.
City council updates In its September meetings, the Homewood City Council: } Approved a restaurant retail liquor license for Oak Hill Bar and Grill, 2835 18th St. S. } Voted to reject Act 2014-429 of the Alabama legislature, which would grant a one-time lump sum payment to retirees or the beneficiaries of deceased retirees of the Retirement Systems of Alabama. } Authorized the mayor to enter an agreement with Engineering Design Technologies, Inc. The company will provide professional consulting and design engineering services for the West Homewood Redevelopment Project. } Approved a sign ordinance variation for Alabama Outdoors, located at 3054 Independence Drive. The owner of Alabama Outdoors is planning a renovation that includes replacing the current signs and adding a set of aluminum letters on the storefront.
TheHomewoodStar.com
October 2014 • A5
Business Spotlight
Read past Business Spotlight at TheHomewoodStar.com
Rosedale Dr
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1817 B 29th Ave. S. 582-9447 fabrikstyle.com Monday-Saturday, 10 a.m.-6 p.m. Sunday, 1-5 p.m.
By MADISON MILLER “I have nothing to wear.” The phrase haunts many fashion enthusiasts as they prepare for work, school, events or even just casual days. Once uttered, visions of a giant closet filled with the latest trends often enter the mind. fab’rik hopes to realize that vision. “Come in, feel like you’re in your best friend’s closet and don’t have that Pretty Woman attitude,” owner Melissa Mistrot said. Thirteen years ago, the first fab’rik clothing boutique opened in Atlanta as an idea from entrepreneur Dana Spinola. Since then, it has expanded to many locations throughout the Southeast. In August, the first Alabama location came to Homewood. Mistrot has lived in Homewood since 1999. Once a buyer for Parisian and a freelance stylist, she took time off to raise her three children, all of whom attend Homewood schools. Now that they are in school, Mistrot said, she is ready for the new challenge along with partners Carmen Herndon and Stacy Falls. “I feel like I can do it now with the age of my children and because I feel good about this [business],” Mistrot said. fab’rik’s mission statement is
Owner Melissa Mistrot shows off styles from fab’rik. Photo by Karim Shamsi-Basha.
“high style with heart, no attitude, no sticker shock.” Although fab’rik is a franchise, Mistrot believes in its mission and hopes to be able to use
it to provide service to women of all ages. Its biggest market is women in the 20 to 40 age range, but Mistrot knows that fab’rik’s wide variety can
accommodate everyone. “There’s something for every woman here, and a comfortable chair for every man,” Mistrot said.
Clothing at the boutique is designed by an in-house designer and purchased by the fab’rik buying office in Los Angeles. All pieces are priced under $100 with the exception of the denim line. The staff doubles as stylists, available for appointments to give customers options and help them decide what they want. When helping customers with styles, their needs are what are most important, Mistrot said. “We want you to feel good about yourself when you walk out the door,” Mistrot said, “Not just because you have on something pretty, but we want you to feel good on the inside and on the outside.” Along with their everyday styling and clothing services, fab’rik offers specials for students, teachers, brides and members of the military. For special events, the store offers “Rockstar Parties,” which allow a group of 10 to 20 people to shop alone in the store for 20 percent off of their entire purchase. The parties are also used as fundraising events for the community. In September, fab’rik held a Rockstar Party to raise money for ovarian cancer. “We are so excited to be able to do what we love, which is fashion, clothes and styling, but we can also give back,” Mistrot said.
The Homewood Star
A6 • October 2014
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Now Open Pet retail store and self-serve dog wash The Whole Dog Market is scheduled to open at 2937 18th St. in the former A Touch of Whimsy location by the start of October. thewholedogmarket.com. Great Clips, 2902 18th St. S., opened for business in July. It offers haircuts and products for all ages as well as an online check-in service. 874-3529. greatclips.com/salons/1367.
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PhysIQ, 3125 Independence Drive, Suite 300A, held a ribbon-cutting in September. It offers metabolic testing, body composition analysis and fitness testing. 874-9940. physiqmedicine.com.
Hirings and Promotions Lakeshore Pharmacy, 1 West Lakeshore Drive, Suite 102, has hired Maggie Cravens, Pharm. D., as a pharmacist. She is a graduate of the McWhorter School of Pharmacy at Samford University and completed her pediatric residency at Children’s of Alabama in May. 945-8081. lakeshorepharmacy.com.
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Business news Business news
to share? to share?
Relocations and Renovations
AllSouth Appliance will relocate from its current location, 4 West Oxmoor Road, to the former Babies R Us at 345 State Farm Parkway. 942-0408. allsouthappliance.net.
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O’Henry’s Coffee, 2831 18th Street S. and 569 Brookwood Village, Suite 101, has been named the best coffee shop in Alabama by Business Insider magazine. In particular, the publication named its Gibraltar Quad Shot as the drink of choice at the shop. 870-1198. ohenryscoffees.com.
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October 2014 • A7
Hematology & Oncology Associates of 513 Brookwood Blvd., 8 Alabama, Suite 275, hired David Mooney, MD, to join its staff as of Aug. 1. Dr. Mooney is now accepting new patients. 502-4700. hoaallc.com.
Anniversaries
Coming9Soon News and Coming Soon Accomplishments
Bob’s Bikes, 1944 28th Ave. S., is celebrating 40 years in business. 879-2258. bobs-bikes.com.
Closings Expansion Expansion
Cahaba Cycles, 2834 18th St. S., has been named to a list of America’s Best Bike Shops for 2014 created by the National Bicycle Dealers Association. 879-3244. cahabacycles.com.
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Babies R Us, 345 State Farm Parkway, closed in mid-September. 945-2995. babiesrus.com.
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If you are in a brick and mortar business in Homewood and want to share your event theand community, If you are in awith brick mortar business letand us know. in Homewood want to share your event with the community, let us know.
The Homewood Star The Homewood Star Email dan@thehomewoodstar.com
Email dan@thehomewoodstar.com
The Homewood Star
A8 • October 2014
Restaurant Showcase Rosedale Dr
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2829 18th St. South 834-8871 mommagoldbergsdeli.com Monday-Saturday, 10 a.m.-10 p.m. Sunday, 11 a.m.-8 p.m.
28th Ave S
18 Street S.
Momma Goldberg’s Deli
Read past Restaurant Showcases at TheHomewoodStar.com
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By SYDNEY CROMWELL Every good Auburn Tiger can recognize the distinctive sight and smell of pepper jack cheese melted on Doritos. It was Auburn graduate Justin Edwards, though, who brought those nachos to Homewood and the rest of the Southeast. As a public administration major at Auburn, Edwards spent many free hours enjoying sandwiches with friends at Momma Goldberg’s. When he graduated and moved away, Edwards missed it. Despite a lack of restaurant management experience, Edwards decided he wanted to own the first Goldberg’s franchise location. Along with his friends Hal Craig and Scott Dean, he convinced the Goldberg’s founders to incorporate their family-run company. The Homewood Momma Goldberg’s Deli opened in December 2007, the first of nearly 30 franchise locations now scattered across the Southeast. “Homewood kind of started it all,” Edwards said. “At the time there wasn’t anything like it in Birmingham.” The restaurant was an instant hit with Auburn graduates searching for a bite of War Eagle nostalgia, but Edwards said Goldberg’s has become a popular choice for local college students and downtown shoppers as well. “We do have a pretty loyal following, [but] we’re always trying to expand and get new faces in there and let new people try out our product,” Edwards said. The most popular sandwich is undoubtedly
(above) Justin Edwards is the co-owner and one of the founders of Homewood’s Momma Goldberg’s. (left) Nachos, a drink and the Momma’s Love sandwich create the classic meal at Momma Goldberg’s. Photo by Sydney Cromwell.
the Momma’s Love: roast beef, ham, turkey and Muenster cheese on a hoagie, topped with spicy mustard and Momma’s sauce. “We tell first-timers that they need a bit of Momma’s Love,” Edwards said. The nachos might have been created by college students at the Auburn store, but their popularity has no age limit. “That’s something nobody else has, and people come back for it,” Edwards said. The menu occasionally features new items,
such as Dean’s creation of the California Momma, a turkey and provolone sandwich on rye bread with avocado and poppy seed dressing. For the most part, though, Edwards said the store hasn’t changed its menu or appearance much in its seven years. “We try to keep our menu fairly simple if we can,” Edwards said. “We feel we’ve got a great product that people love, and we try to keep it at that.” Edwards and Dean also own the downtown
Birmingham Goldberg’s and are considering a franchise on U.S. 280 in the future. Edwards said managing multiple stores is time-consuming, but he enjoys the “Main Street feel” of the Homewood Goldberg’s and meeting fellow fans of Auburn’s most famous sandwich. He recalled once meeting a man at the post office who shook his hand for bringing some of Momma’s love to Homewood. “I like being able to tell people that I’m part of Momma G,” Edwards said.
TheHomewoodStar.com
October 2014 • A9
Ken Jackson, right, unveiled a bronze depiction of him and his dog Remy, for whom the dog park was named. Birmingham Mayor William Bell, left, was also part of the ribbon-cutting event. Photos by Madoline Markham.
Free to run By MADOLINE MARKHAM Ken Jackson saw two dogs run full speed ahead for a 100-yard stretch. For all he knew, that might have been their first opportunity to run that far without being on a leash. What Jackson did know for sure is that those pups would be able to make that same dash anytime they wanted in the future at Red Mountain Park’s new off-leash dog park, which opened Sept. 6. “The dog park gives dogs the opportunity to run in an area bigger
than most backyards and faster than most owners can run, and when they do that, they stretch their muscles, have better digestion and have better behavior,” Jackson said. “Plus, they get to meet other dogs.” A dog park had been in long-term plans for Red Mountain, but Jackson’s financial gifts sped up the process. His involvement only began with a check, though. Self-described as “animal crazy,” he was instrumental in working with the park on the design for the space, wanting it to be the best offleash dog park there is.
Its new name, Remy’s Dog Park, comes from that of Jackson’s late Jack Russell/Shih Tzu mix, and the donor fund he used for his gift to the park is named for two of his other dogs, Mac and Tosh. No other dog park in Birmingham is as large as even the large-dog section of the Red Mountain Park space. Its 1.7 fenced-in acres is half in shaded trees and half grass. A neighboring space for dogs under 30 pounds is a 0.7-acre version of the large-dog space. Both feature benches around the perimeter and water bowls.
Remy’s Dog Park offers both shaded and grassy areas for dogs and their owners to play off leash.
New dog park opens at Red Mountain A dog friend of Jackson’s, Mike from Hand in Paw, who is deaf, inspired him to initiate another 0.3acre section of the park for dogs that are elderly, shy, injured, recovering or have other special needs. The park isn’t just about dogs, though. Jackson envisions it bringing people together who might not otherwise meet. Until a new parking lot is built starting later this fall, dogs and their owners will get to the park through a 0.25-mile trail from the main entrance. Jackson hopes it will give them a taste
of Red Mountain’s trails that will convince dog and owner alike to try out more of the 12 miles of pathways available to them. The dog park is now open seven days a week from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. but will start to close at 6 p.m. after daylight saving time begins. It is closed Wednesdays from 8 to 10 a.m. for maintenance work. Red Mountain Park is located 3 miles west of I-65 at 2011 Frankfurt Drive. For more, visit redmountainpark.org.
The Homewood Star
A10 • October 2014
Transylvania-bound Actors prepare for upcoming production of Dracula By JESSA PEASE Vampires and buckets of blood make for one spooky welcome to Halloween. But this isn’t some cult horror film, it’s Dracula at the Virginia Samford Theatre, and it’s opening just in time for Halloween. Everyone knows Bram Stoker’s story, but Homewood residents Elizabeth Pasarilla-Richardson and Kyle Bass are bringing the tale to life as the lead characters Mina and Van Helsing.
Van Helsing
Meet the “token old guy” in the cast. Kyle Bass is used to getting a lot of laughs and applause in the comedies and musicals he has performed in, but now he’s performing in a new genre — one with more blood. “With vampire hunters being a little more popular, I think that will be kind of fun to do,” Bass said. “I usually do more of the comedies, musicals and that kind of thing, so it’s a little bit out of my wheelhouse.” Bass acted all through high school and college. When he had kids, he took 10 to 15 years off to focus on them, but once they started doing their own things, he took the opportunity to jump back into acting. He has a long list of credits, including Jesus in Godspell, Nicely-Nicely in Guys and Dolls and Buddy in Buddy the Musical. And he does all this acting while still maintaining his nineto-five job. “Even back in college I was a computer science major, so maybe it’s that left brain, right brain thing,” Bass said. “You work during the day time, so it’s a nice release to get out, do a show and do a little entertaining.” Bass’ talents don’t stop with performing. In 2012, the Virginia Samford Theatre presented a play he wrote, The Pablo Cruise Incident.
Kyle Bass performed as Buddy in Buddy the Musical. Photo courtesy of Kyle Bass.
Mina
Elizabeth Pasarilla-Richardson didn’t start out doing straight theater. She started singing in high school and landed her first role in the musical Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat when she was 15. The community college production changed everything for her. From there, Pasarilla-Richardson earned her bachelor’s and master’s degrees in classical opera. She has many operatic credits including Suor Genevieve from Suor Angelica and Sally in Die Fledermaus with Mississippi Opera, but she still loves performing in musical and straight theater. “I always loved musical theater still so much,
Elizabeth Pasarilla-Richardson in a performance of Story Time. Photo courtesy of Elizabeth Pasarilla-Richardson.
and it was really hard for me to figure out where I belonged,” Pasarilla-Richardson said. “I like to call myself a crossover because I’m not really a big enough voice to do opera, like lead role kind of opera, but I also am not belty straight theater shows. So I really do well in crossover shows.” Two years ago, she moved to Homewood and started getting involved with the theater crowd in Birmingham. Because singing opera is so different from theatrical training — opera singers sing very challenging music and they do it without a microphone — she said it has been fun exploring all types of theater and getting to find her own way. She started with the Virginia Samford Theatre playing Grace in Annie and found out about auditions for Dracula at a rehearsal. She read the script
and loved it, so she decided it would be fun to jump from a happy play like Annie into a dark show like Dracula. “A show like Dracula is great because any time I am not hired because of my singing voice, it’s really good for me,” Pasarilla-Richardson said. “It really pushes me, and it really lets me focus. I love going to the theater and going, ‘I don’t have to sing a note today.’ Because that’s always what I’m thinking.” Pasarilla-Richardson and Bass will be appearing in the Virginia Samford Theatre’s upcoming production of Dracula, which will be showing from Oct. 30 to Nov. 9. For more information, call 251-1206 or visit virginiasamfordtheatre.org.
TheHomewoodStar.com
October 2014 • A11
Never the same Breast cancer survivor shares her journey By KARIM SHAMSI-BASHA A night of pleasant dreams was shattered for Cindy Williams when she felt a lump in her breast. It was the Thursday before Memorial Day of 2010, and she was certain that lump could mean only one thing: cancer. She started bawling as she walked into Brookwood Medical Center the next morning. The lab technicians said nothing during her mammogram and ultrasound, but she remembers the vibe in the room was not good. “They had serious faces. I was crying. I just knew,” Williams said. “They did a biopsy and the nurse called me with the news: it was breast cancer.” Williams was devastated but relieved that she knew her next step. She had a lumpectomy, but her surgeon was “not happy” when she woke up. He had to remove nine lymph nodes, five of which were cancerous. Williams’ cancer had spread outside her body, and she needed chemotherapy. “I was scared,” Williams said. “I looked at my doctor, Allen Yielding, and asked him the question he hears all the time: Am I going to die?” His response was quick: “No, no, no, you have a very treatable version of breast cancer.” Then Yielding wrote a single word on an index card and showed it to her. As Williams stared at that card,
Cindy Williams revels in life now that she has been declared cancer-free. Photo by Karim Shamsi-Basha.
a smile started to break through the tears covering her face. She turned from a victim with death knocking at her door to a warrior strengthened by hope and trust. That card had one word written on it: cure. “I will cure you,” Yielding said with
a smile. Williams drew confidence from her doctor, but the diagnosis still hit close to home. “My daughter was 16, and my son was 12 [when I was diagnosed],” Williams said. “I was 16 when I learned of my mother having lymphoma. Mom
survived the cancer, but she died from complication from the chemo.” Williams started chemo on July 7, 2010. Her coworkers, friends and family were very supportive, and her children supported her throughout the journey. After many chemo sessions
followed by several radiation treatments, Williams declares cancer-free. Now she revels in life and can taste every minute of every day. “Life is way too short. It is also very delicious. Nothing matters except your loved ones. Scott and Kate are everything to me. No matter what they are doing, I am there,” Williams said. Williams’ takeaway from the entire experience was that cancer can strike in the most unlikely ways. “The interesting thing is that I did not carry the breast cancer gene and no one in my family had it, and I still got it,” Williams said. “It is beyond important for girls to start checking themselves at an early age, that they communicate with their mothers and learn about this disease. Fifteen percent of breast cancer will never show up on a mammogram. You have to check yourself.” One of Williams’ fondest memories from those terrible days was early in her journey. She was crying at her doctor’s office when he went outside and brought in another patient. “She was six months ahead of me.” Williams said. “She looked at me and said: “Your life will never be the same.” Williams looked at her with sad eyes, until the woman smiled and added: “Your life is going to be much better.”
The Homewood Star
A12 • October 2014
Ahead of the game Startup group co-founded by Homewood resident becoming big name in Alabama sports By DAVID KNOX
David Knight
Michael Eady
The Knight Eady Sports Group is barely a year old, but it’s way past the toddler stage. The sports marketing and managing firm has gone from crawling to walking to running in a hurry, becoming a big name in Birmingham and Alabama sports. The company, founded by Michael Eady of Hoover and David Knight of Homewood, won the rights in July to manage and market the two biggest high school events in the state — the Super 7 state football championship and the basketball State Finals, formerly known as the Final 48. The Alabama Sports Foundation through its Bruno Event Team had previously run the Alabama High School Athletic Association events. That contract expired in June. KESG’s agreement runs for three years. Knight and Eady met in college at the University of Alabama and became friends. Upon graduation, Knight went to work in the Southeastern Conference office, and Eady worked first for Martin Advertising and then with the Colonnade Group, a major player regionally and nationally
in sports event management. Their paths often crossed while they were working for their respective groups, and they decided in June 2013 to start their own company. “We wanted to create and market unique high school and college sporting events that gives kids unique platforms to compete, grow and have great experiences through competition,” Knight said. “We know the value of what scholastic sports does for kids — youth, high school, collegiate level — how kids can grow through athletics and become leaders and do some special things that can only happen on the playing surface and not in the classroom. “Our mission here is to create those unique opportunities and platforms.” Added Eady, “I think the best way to describe what we do is if you’re going to build a home or building, you’re going to have a general contractor. In the event world, we’re the contractor. We do a lot of things in-house, the marketing, the logo development, and then you’ve still got to hire security, people to take tickets, people to sell tickets, ushers, referees, someone to operate the scoreboard, to do PA announcing. You’ve got to schedule traveling for some of these teams, work out deals with hotels. And of course, sell tickets and sponsorships. It’s all-encompassing.” KESG made its first big splash with the Steel
TheHomewoodStar.com
October 2014 • A13
The Knight Eady Sports Group is a sports marketing firm that creates and markets unique high school and college sporting events that give kids unique platforms to compete, grow and have great experiences through competition. Photo by Karim Shamsi-Basha.
City Invitational high school basketball tournament, which started out as a Mountain Brook High holiday basketball tournament. Chris Nix of the Birmingham Tip-Off Club, which was a partner in the event, approached Knight Eady about managing the event. Mountain Brook envisioned it becoming the top holiday tournament in the region. KESG thought it would
be a step up to stage it at Samford’s Pete Hanna Center, with MBHS as host, and it was met with rave reviews. Nix, a Vestavia Hills resident, has since come on board with KESG as chief development officer. Nix has also taken over the task of choosing the teams that will play in the event this December. Knight Eady also runs three other
FOR ALL AGES
basketball events: Border Wars at Hoover High, which pits Hoover, Ramsay and Mountain Brook boys teams against three teams from Tennessee; Kings of the Court, an all-day, 24-team, two-site event at CrossPlex’s Bill Harris Arena and Birmingham-Southern’s Bill Battle Coliseum on MLK Day; and Nashville’s Next Level Hoopfest.
For the AHSAA events, KESG has been in charge of designing new logos for the Super 7 and the State Finals, the new name for the now 56-team boys and girls basketball championships. While they were at it, they freshened the association’s logo, which includes a star that can easily be used in branding Alabama prep sports. Knight Eady also reached an
agreement with the Florida High School Athletic Association to expand its corporate sponsorship program. KESG’s biggest national coup, however, is landing management of the NCAA Gymnastics Championships in Fort Worth, Texas, in 2015 and 2016. Though the events themselves are big, Knight and Eady said they know it’s often the little things that make the experiences special. “I think the people who came out to the Steel City Invitational kind of walked in and said, ‘Wow! This is different,’” Knight said. “A lot of it is visual, whether it’s signage or logos or programs, T-shirts, coaches’ polos … these are just ‘things,’ but they create a big-time visual appearance. “We say it a lot around here: We’re taking the college template of how events are run and applying them to the high school events we’re doing.” That approach leaves a lasting impression, Eady said. Players in a state championship may be playing their last game. It should be memorable and first-rate. “Like with the Steel City Invitational, all the players got a nice credential with a lanyard, which may seem petty, but we gave them personalized bag tags with the Steel City logo and it had their name and number on there … that’s a little thing that will stick with them forever,” Eady said. It also is a benefit for sponsors. “I’m a perfect example of that,” Eady said. “I played in the state basketball championship game for Briarwood Christian as a senior in high school, and it’s impacted me for the rest of my life. If there’s a sponsor attached to that, it’s with me for the rest of my life.”
The Homewood Star
A14 • October 2014 MARIJUANA
CONTINUED from page A1 working on drug policy, will focus on providing facts about marijuana to parents. Afterward, additional information will be available for parents to pick up, and experts will be on hand to answer questions about subjects such as parenting or treatment. “With more and more states legalizing marijuana, it’s hard for parents to have fact-based conversations with their kids about marijuana,” Anthony said. “We want to share the facts with
30
the parents so they can be prepared to debunk the myths that are out there about marijuana and help them sort through what they are hearing.” Anthony cites the drug’s effect on the developing brain as another cause for concern. “We knew it was addictive before, but research in the last two years shows it can cause decline of IQ of up to 8 points,” she said. “If your IQ drops, that can be a game changer for some kids. We hope parents see the signs and that kids are
Monthly Teen Marijuana Use
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aware of [that possibility].” The forum is geared toward parents but also appropriate if they want to bring middle school or high school children, Anthony said, noting that she hopes it will spark ongoing conversation in families. To learn more about the Safe & Healthy Homewood Coalition, visit Facebook.com/ safeandhealthyhomewood.
Anti-Drug Events This Month Teen Marijuana Use Forum
20
Tuesday, Oct. 28 6-8 p.m. Homewood High School Register at goo.gl/ajc6kl
15
Red Ribbon Week
10 5 %
Grade
12
10
8
7
National
Homewood
All data compares 2012-13 monthly use in Homewood Ciy Schools from the Pride Survey to the 2011-12 national averages.
HOMEWOOD
•
ALABAMA
877-8797
Wayne Salem, Owner
2913 18th Street S. www.salemsdiner.com Monday - Friday: 6:30 am - 2:00 pm Saturday: 6:30 am - 3:00 pm
HOME OF THE PHILLY CHEESESTEAK
Oct. 27-31 During the week, high school peer helpers will perform drug prevention skits in elementary schools and lead lessons with middle school students. The Homewood Chamber of Commerce will also place ribbons on lampposts around Homewood to raise awareness.
Meet the Speaker
Dr. Kevin A. Sabet ê Director, Drug Policy Institute ê Assistant Professor, University of Florida College of Medicine, Department of Psychiatry ê Co-founder, Project SAM (Smart Approaches to Marijuana) From 2009-2011, Dr. Sabet served in the Obama administration as the senior advisor to Director Gil Kerlikowske at the White House Office of National Drug Control Policy (ONDCP). Representing his nonpartisan commitment to drug policy, he previously worked on research, policy and speech writing at ONDCP in 2000 and from 20032004 in the Clinton and Bush administrations, respectively. He remains the only staff member at ONDCP to hold a political appointment in both the Bush and Obama administrations. Dr. Sabet is a regular contributor to opinion-editorial pages worldwide, including the Washington Post, Huffington Post, New York Times, Vancouver Sun, San Francisco Chronicle, Seattle Times, CNN, CNBC and more than a dozen other media outlets. His first editorial since leaving ONDCP, published in the Los Angeles Times in September 2011, earned him a “Five Best Columns” distinction by The Atlantic.
TheHomewoodStar.com
October 2014 • A15
Homewood Witches Ride Benefiting the American Cancer Society Thursday, Oct. 30 5-7 p.m. 2919 Linden Ave. $10
Rosedale
Witches Ride Map
WITCHES
CONTINUED from page A1 with the ACS on this year’s event, scheduled for Thursday, Oct. 30, from 5-7 p.m. Mayer is anticipating participation from around 200 witches, including a group of her mom’s friends from Florida. The ride will depart from Studio on Linden, 2919 Linden Ave., at around 5:30 p.m. and take about ve 25is A minutes to complete. Registration y $10, all of which goes directly lle to ACS. a T-shirts and a silent auction V with many items from Homewood merchants will also raise funds for the society. Only women are invited to ride as witches, but Mayer encourages men and kids to find a spot along the ride route and wait to catch candy.
Once the ride is completed, everyone is welcome back at Studio on Linden for food trucks and other festivities, as well as a toast in memory of Ford. Mayer ordered her cape and leggings for this year’s witch costume months in advance and is looking r forward to seeing everyone’s moo xexpresO sion of a “fun witch.” Prizes will be awarded for the best witch costume and the best broom-bike. “We want everyone to do their own thing, but the crazier the better,” Mayer said. “Less is not more in this case.” For more information, visit facebook.com/homewoodwitchesride.
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Last year, plans for the ride began two weeks prior when Mayer posted information about the date and route on her personal Facebook page. Friends told friends, and on Oct. 30, a flock of friendly witches and their broom-bikes showed up decked out in costume. The event had raised $600 for the American Cancer Society (ACS) before it began. “Eighty-something people were here that night,” Mayer said. “It was insane.” Afterward, Mayer kept hearing people tell her they heard about the ride and wanted to do it the following year, so she decided to start planning months in advance. The original organizers are working
28th Ave S 18th Street S.
The focus on the Witches Ride is fun. Its route begins on Linden Avenue on Oct. 30. Photo courtesy of Beth Hontzas.
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A16 • October 2014
The Homewood Star
Fall Home Guide Special Advertising Section
O
ctober is the time to take on a project or two. Whether you are looking to redesign a room, revamp your summer garden or prepare your home for winter, we’ve got you covered. Browse through our fall home guide for advice, tips and resources for every aspect of home improvement.
Revamp your countertops with Granite Transformations see page A21
INDEX
Try a furniture store with more at Issis & Sons, see page A17
Ensure your chimney is ready for cooler weather with Batts’ see page A21
Batts’ Chimney...........A21 Christopher Glenn......A18 Classic Iron Works......A19
Construx.....................A22 Granite Trans..............A21 Hollywood Pools.......A23
Get your house clean with ease with help from The Maids see page A19
Issis & Sons.................A17 Sweet Peas.................A20 The Maids ...................A19
Western Drapery........A18
TheHomewoodStar.com
Fall
Home Guide
October 2014 • A17
Special Adversiting Section
Taking care of the customer
Issis started in Pelham, Ala. in only a 2000 square foot showroom offering carpet and rugs. From the beginning in 1984 to today the philosophy is the same, “always take care of the customer,” as stated firmly by owner Steve Issis. The foundation of this business is founded on that simple, yet strong principle. With that in the foundation, Issis has grown leaps and bounds to
expand the main showroom to 100,000 square feet. The showroom on Highway 280 was opened in 1999 and is 20,000 square feet. The location is a full service store offering beautiful carpets, rugs, tiles, stone and hardwoods. A wonderful and exciting addition was added in 2007 to help our customers even more. That
addition was Issis & Sons Furniture Gallery in Pelham with a 22,000 square foot showroom. Managed by Nancy Gowens and a staff of talented professional decorators, the showroom offers all of the above plus a full line of quality fine furniture along with custom bedding & drapery services, accessories and lighting. This led to the opening of Issis at Greenbrier
in 2013 that is managed by the Gary Hughes and Moeen Chadury, again offering service and quality. The ultimate goal of all Issis stores is to make our customers happy by providing excellent service, amazing selections and quality products at affordable prices. To learn more about Issis & Sons, visit issisandsons.com.
A18 • October 2014
Custom solutions for customers
For over 40 years, Western Drapery Inc. has been a leading provider of custom drapery and treatments, and has built a reputation for great service with affordable prices. If you are looking for fashion or function, our professionals can design, fabricate and install any treatment you need for your home or office. If you are looking to decorate for the upcoming holiday season, then Western Drapery is the place to shop. We are Birmingham’s oldest custom drapery workroom… just don’t wait too late to get that drapery or treatment you will want for the Christmas season! Only a certain amount of orders can be accommodated We can offer custom drapery, valances, bedding, hardware or any of the hard treatments such as shades, blinds or shutters. With an array of style and patterns, we can give you an aesthetically pleasing solution for all your window problems. Custom drapery
Fall
treatments are the perfect answer for privacy, temperature problems, soundproofing or just making the difference for a perfectly finished home! Our decorator, Mary Adams, will come out to measure and discuss your requirements with you. We can also provide you with competent installers who contract their work out and can give your treatment a finished look for a nominal charge. Our store hours are 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Monday through Friday. We welcome you to come in and look at our store samples for all the newest and hottest designs and patterns. We are centrally located at 2819 Crescent Ave. in Homewood, just 2 blocks off the main street in Homewood. We hope to see you soon. To learn more about Western Drapery, visit westerndraperyinc.net.
Home Guide
The Homewood Star
Special Adversiting Section
How to select antiques for the home and garden
When you visit Christopher Glenn, you’ll find collectible items from another era. With beautifully aged antiques and a large selection of decorative items, Christopher Glenn has everything you need to create the perfect atmosphere. To help you navigate the many options available, Chris Carter of Christopher Glenn has answered some questions. How can you tell the quality of an antique? Look at the overall proportions of the piece. Do the lines flow well? Are the legs and drawers as they should be? Check for the integrity and the construction methods, used such as the thickness of the wood or veneer. Has it been repaired or refinished? Are the pulls original? Is there discoloration/ oxidation where it should be? Many older pieces will have some cracks where there has been shrinkage through the years.
What are your most popular garden items? We sell a lot of cast stone, terra-cotta, glazed pottery and cast iron. Large containers have always been a big seller. How can you use antiques to create the perfect atmosphere in a room? I try to keep a large selection of chests because this is a good start for designing a room from scratch. One of the most important aspects is the accessories. We offer a large selection of one-of-a-kind paintings, mirrors and vintage Murano glass and lamps. My mantra has always been “stick with the classics.” You can tweak any look with fabric, paint and wallpaper, but you should purchase the best quality pieces. Things of quality have no fear of time. To learn more about Christopher Glenn, visit christopherglenninc.com or call 870-1236.
Fall
TheHomewoodStar.com
How to love cleaning day — call The Maids
The Maids began cleaning homes in the metro Birmingham area in 1987. With our 22-step Healthy Touch Cleaning System, we give you the healthiest, most thorough housecleaning ever! The Maids offers thorough and dependable cleaning, utilizing the three-tofour-person team concept and environmentally preferable products. The Maids insures and bonds our employees and pays all employment taxes. Our success is a result of our commitment to our employees and customers. We have an unconditional 100 percent satisfaction guarantee. Our goal is always satisfied customers! The Maids has a commitment to give back to the community. Those we support include the Bell Center/Service Guild, Exceptional Foundation, Junior League, Susan G. Komen Race for the Cure, Alabama Symphony and
many of our local schools. The Maids is a sponsor of the Breast Cancer Research Foundation of Alabama, and all of The Maids yellow company cars proudly display their license plates. The Maids is a member of the local chamber of commerce and the Better Business Bureau. Most of our clients say, “I love it when it’s cleaning day…Coming home to a spotless house is something our entire family looks forward to.” Weekly or every other week cleaning gives our clients time to spend doing the things they really enjoy. We also offer move-in/ move-out cleanings and other frequencies of service. Call today to enjoy the benefits of a cleaner and healthier home. For more information, call 623-4752 or visit maids.com.
TREAT yourself to a clean home with no TRICKS attached.
AV
Proudly keeping homes cleaner and healthier since 1987
205-871-9338 www.MAIDS.com
Referred for a reason.
Home Guide
October 2014 • A19
Special Adversiting Section
Ironclad security and service Colder weather is on the way, but it doesn’t have to invade your home. One way to prevent cold air from sneaking in is with a secure storm door. Classic Iron Works, located at 3724 1st Ave. N, has been in the business of storm doors and other iron works for over 25 years. The owners, John Gallagher and Bob Cooley, have over 70 years of experience when combined. “We treat people like they’ve invited us into their home,” Gallagher said. Each door is custom made and can fit any size. There are 36 styles to choose from. The styles are powder coat painted and come in standard black. For an extra fee, colors can be changed to one of several custom colors including white, bronze, brown, copper-veined and almond. Each door includes safety-tempered glass, 2-inch steel framing, double dead bolts, plush weather-stripping, double sweep bottom, storm chain, steep vault pins, welded pickets, doors keyed alike and rust inhibitive paint. A one-year warranty is included for everything except glass breakage. Along with storm doors, Classic Iron Works offers additional ironwork accessories including gates, patio covers, rails and more. While doors can help with home temperature, it is not the only concern among customers in the winter months, Gallagher said. To minimize slipping hazards, customers often ask about railing for the winter months. The time to install rails, however, is soon. “Now is a great time to come out and assess,” Gallagher said. To learn more about Classic Iron Works, visit classicironworks.com or call 322-6868.
A20 • October 2014
Fall
Home Guide
The Homewood Star
Special Adversiting Section
What to plant this fall The month of October is the perfect time for fall planting. Consider these suggestions from Sweet Peas Garden Shop owner Jon Culver. }}Pansies and violas will provide the most color all fall and winter. }}Plants such as snapdragons, ornamental cabbage/ kale, and mums are great companion plants with your pansies. }}Try planting bulbs such as tulips, daffodils and hyacinths under your pansies for early spring color. }}For edible gardening, plant lettuce, broccoli, cauliflower, Brussels and collards. Herbs such as rosemary, lavender, parsley, oregano, chives, cilantro, sage and thyme love the cool temperatures of fall and many go through the winter. }}Plant with a time-released fertilizer, such as osmocote, and supplement with a liquid fertilizer in the winter. }}Fall is also the best time to plant trees and shrubs. Dig holes twice as wide but no deeper than the root ball. Always amend the soil with a good compost or soil amendment. Black cow topsoil is my favorite. Sweet Peas Garden Shop is located at 2829 Linden Ave. For more call 879-3839 or visit sweetpeasgardenshop.com.
John Culver owns Sweet Peas Garden Shop.
What You’ll Find at Sweet Peas Since 2002, Sweet Peas has featured not only plants but also a variety of pottery, garden accessories, fertilizer options and gardening tools, aiming to be the customer’s total resource garden center. “There is such a nice mixture of young families and established families [in Homewood],” owner Jon Culver said. “You can tell they really put a lot of care into their homes, so I figured it would be a great place to open a business like this.” Culver works to reflect his eclectic gardening style in his business from his unique choices in
displaying his plants, to the garden accessories he sells, to the colorfully painted car parked out front of his shop. Culver’s favorite community activity that Sweet Peas puts on is its annual autumn art show, set for Saturday, Oct. 25 this year. This event allows local artists to set up an area at Sweet Peas to showcase and sell their art for no cost to the artists. Featuring live music and a food truck, the inspiration of the atmosphere is that of a “mini-farmer’s market” engaging the community and business neighbors.
TheHomewoodStar.com
Fall
A sweep is as lucky as lucky can be
Home Guide
October 2014 • A21
Special Adversiting Section
A low-maintenance, low-worry countertop
When the weather gets frightful outside, a fireplace can be delightful. To ensure your chimney is in tip-top shape, the experts at Batts’ Chimney Services answered a couple questions concerning the safety and upkeep of your fireplace. Batts’ Chimney Services is a local family owned and operated, full service chimney company. Owner Phillip Batts said residents have been relying on Batts’ for its professionalism and knowledge to handle their entire chimney needs for 36 years. “Our goal is to provide the highest quality work at a reasonable price!” Batts said. How often should I have my chimney cleaned? The National Fire Protection Association Standard 211 says, “Chimneys, fireplaces and vents shall be inspected at least once a year for soundness, freedom from deposits and correct clearances. Cleaning, maintenance and repairs shall be done if necessary.” My fireplace stinks, what can I do? A good cleaning will help, and during this process we can determine if there are other contributing factors that need to be addressed. I have water leaking into my fireplace and water stains on the ceiling and wall. Can your company fix my problem? We will complete a thorough inspection to determine where the water is coming from and help in the prevention of further leaks. Sometimes the problem is not chimney related. A roof problem can show up at
the chimney and deceive us. To learn more about Batts’ Chimney Services, visit battschimneyservices.com or call 956-8207. Visit csia.org/Homeowner-Resources/index.aspx for more FAQs on chimney service.
Countertops from Granite Transformations may look like an ordinary granite, quartz or recycled glass surface. But upon closer inspection, you’ll quickly learn how premium countertops from Granite Transformations will make your life easier. The company’s products are created by grinding up granite, quartz or recycled glass, then cooking it to create a new solid material. The end result is thinner but stronger than traditional granite and quartz. Instead of being porous, it’s solid and sturdy—not to mention that it can withstand heat up to 500 degrees. Best of all, Granite Transformations countertops are scratch and stain resistant and backed by a lifetime warranty. The thin design also allows the product to be installed easily on top of existing countertops with no demolition required. To clean it, you simply wipe it with soap and warm
water. There’s no maintenance thanks to Forever Seal! The experts at Granite Transformations provide a quick turnaround. Ninety percent of installs are completed in one day, but that won’t be the first time they visit a customer’s home. Instead of visiting a show room with staged commercial lighting, a design consultant brings samples to the home, allowing the customer to select the product in the natural light of the kitchen or bathroom where it will be installed. Birmingham native Brandon Plowden recently acquired a local franchise of Granite Transformations, one of 95 across North America with products manufactured in Sebring, Fla. To learn more about Granite Transformations, visit gtalabama.com or call 789-9771.
Fall
A22 • October 2014
Home Guide
The Homewood Star
Special Adversiting Section
Trending with the times Are you thinking about building or remodeling your home? Take the next step and call the experts at Construx to assist you. Whether it be a specific vision for your home or just ideas floating around, they can make it happen. Free consultations are just a phone call away. “Many people are choosing to remodel their current home at a time where the economic situation is working in their favor. Do it now allows you to enjoy those upgrades while adding to the value of your home,” said owner/ partner Kent Irwin.
trendy and beautiful. } New stainless steel appliances give your kitchen an entire new look. } Enhance your countertops with copper.
Home Automation trends } Key fobs will unlock your door with just a click } Did you remember to shut the garage door? Check it from your phone app and close it remotely. } Turn on/off your lights, lock and unlock your doors – all remotely from your phone.
The Construx Staff Martha Hunter brings friendly customer service and follows through with your job. From the beginning, she helps get your vision onto paper, helps with your product selections, and makes the experience fun and pleasurable. She has strong interests in energy efficiency and helping people age in place. Kent Irwin brings many skills to the table as a retired engineer. He is poised to handle all drawings necessary to capture and convey your vision and follow through with project management. Anthony Munroe is a schedule driven builder with 30 years of experience in the residential and light commercial field, having built more than 300 homes and remodeling projects. Anthony is also a Certified VA builder with expertise in ADA handicap and specifically adaptive housing.
} Smart Thermostats save while you are home and control while you are away.
Outdoor trends } Front doors and entry ways make a first impression and increase curb appeal.
Home improvement ideas to watch Bathroom trends
} Air baths (versus older style jet tubs)
} Getting rid of the tub/shower combo and replacing it with a separate walk-in shower
} Big plank tiles for floors and walls
} Rimless glass shower walls
Kitchen trends
} Hand held shower heads for tubs and shower } Free-standing bathtubs
“Open floor plans are all the trend now. By opening up your kitchen to an adjoining room, it creates a dramatic effect and a great update to
your home,” said Martha. } Hardwood flooring in the kitchen gives it more flow with the rest of the house and feels warm and inviting. } Kitchen islands are a good break between the kitchen and living space. The trend is to make these look more like furniture. } Granite and quartz countertops are
} Wood decks or screened in porch for extra outdoor living space. } Outdoor fire pits and cooking areas can be added. The Construx showroom is located in the Rocky Ridge Plaza Shopping Center. Call for an appointment and free estimate. For more info, call 5332668, email info@construxhome.com or visit construxhome.com
TheHomewoodStar.com
Creating a ‘backyard oasis’
Fall
October 2014 • A23
Home Guide Special Adversiting Section
What to know about fabric trends
Shew Sheri features an assortment of contemporary fabric and a sewing essentials showroom. Photo by Keith McCoy.
It may be the off-season for pools, but Hollywood Pool and Spa has plenty of other services to offer. Co-owner Billy Branch shares a little about the business. How did Hollywood Pool and Spa get its start? Hollywood Pools began in 1986 as a pool service and repair business with a small retail location on Hollywood Boulevard in Homewood. As the company grew, it became necessary to relocate to our current location on Montgomery Highway in Vestavia Hills. What is Hollywood Pool and Spa’s business philosophy? With our current product selection, we offer our customers anything they need to create a “backyard oasis.” What services do you specialize in? We offer a wide variety of pool services, including weekly cleaning and equipment
repair. We specialize in all pool renovations, including replastering, replacing pool tile and coping, and installing new vinyl liners. With summer being over and pools being used less frequently, what are some ways you continue to help customers? As our busy summer pool season winds down, we begin emphasizing sales of Sundance Spas, Big Green Egg and Weber Grills, and Crimson Casual and Lloyd Flanders patio furniture. Are you offering any specials during the fall and winter seasons? Whether it is the Fall Home & Garden Show, our annual Sundance Spas Truckload Sale or our huge Holiday Sale for Big Green Eggs, fall and winter are a great time to take advantage of discounted pricing on spas, grills and outdoor furniture. To learn more about Hollywood Pool and Spa, visit hollywoodpoolandspas.com.
Sew Sheri is not just a warehouse lined with bolts of fabric. It is a contemporary fabric, notions, hardware, trim and sewing essentials showroom with an open workroom, which also features Dorm Suite Dorm’s custom dorm bedding. Clients can choose or custom order fabrics for their home design projects. They may also schedule a consultation with a designer who can build on their design ideas and help them create exclusive pieces from our trend setting fabrics. The store works with clients at every stage of designing. Some are very savvy and already have specific ideas about their projects when they come in, and others are home design novices and feel more intimidated by the process. Sew Sheri’s designers get to know the client, their personality and their specific project needs. Owner Sheri Corey just returned from the WCAA (Window Covering Association of America) Color Theory Lecture in Atlanta.
Here are some trends in home fabrics she learned about: }} Moody shades are out, and happy patterns, colors. and prints are in. }} Blue, blue, blue! Rich, saturated blues are everywhere. }} Lush fabrics such velvet, suede and corduroy are a must for warm fall and winter décor. }} Modern versions of florals with bold colors and patterns are popular. }} Metallics are making a bold statement in home fabrics, furnishings and accents. }} Outdoor fabrics are coming inside for their unique patterns, longevity and durability. }} Home style follows fashion trends and mixing patterns is big, so if you are feeling unsure, start with an easy stripe/floral or plaid/color block. Sew Sheri is located at 2832 Culver Road. For more information, visit sewsheri.com or call 879-8278.
We are excited to introduce two new designers!
Danielle Palladino
Reb Baker,
ASID,RIO
Come in today for your free consultation. YOUR LOCAL FABRIC RETAILER
2832 Culver Rd • 879.8278 • Mon. - Sat
造 造
The Homewood Star
SECTION B School House B9 Sports B12 Calendar B14
Pats’ Moss out but not down By DAVID KNOX Homewood’s Patriots suffered a huge blow when linebacker Tripp Moss went down with a knee injury in the second quarter of the Patriots’ season-opening game at Decatur. Moss tore his anterior cruciate ligament in his left leg on the play, damaged his meniscus and partially tore his medial cruciate ligament. The senior defensive leader is out for the season. “I hate that we’ve lost him for the season,” said Patriots coach Ben Berguson. “He’s just worked so hard. He’s worked as hard or harder than anybody on our team. He’s always had the goal of playing in college and he’s been getting some looks.” Decatur edged the Pats 13-10. The injury happened on a kickoff in the second quarter. Berguson said Jayson Williams, a senior who transferred in from Leeds,
replaced Moss in the rotation at linebacker, and Carlos Figueoroa will step up too. Moss had surgery to rebuild the ACL the Tuesday following the game by Lyle Cain at Andrews Sports Medicine and Orthopaedic Center at St. Vincent’s. Cain told Moss and his family that he’d done the same procedure on about eight players on the University of Alabama football team the past couple of years. “That lifted his spirits,” said Moss’ father, Jay. “We shed some tears Friday and Saturday, but by Saturday afternoon he was texting friends and watching game film. He still has football in him, the path is just a little different.” He began rehabbing the injury the day after the surgery at Champion Sports Medicine. “What I’m trying to take away from this is everything happens for a reason,”
See MOSS | page B2
From the sidelines Tripp Moss watches the Homewood Patriots play Vestavia Hills game. Photo by Karim Shamsi-Basha.
The Homewood Star
B2 • October 2014
Tripp Moss, left, joins the Homewood Patriots captains for the coin toss before the Vestavia Hills game. Photo by Karim Shamsi-Basha.
MOSS
CONTINUED from page B1 Tripp Moss said. “God has a plan even better than I could have ever thought of. “I’m still hoping to play college football, if some school will take a chance. I’ll be calling the schools that I’ve talked to and tell them what’s happened. “This will make me a better man. I believe I can come back better, stronger, faster and bigger.”
Moss went to 15 or so camps in the offseason, mostly at FCS and mid-major FBS schools, his father said. Some of the camps he went to and schools that have shown some interest are Furman, Middle Tennessee, Mississippi College, Presbyterian, Tennessee Tech, Samford and Jacksonville State, among others. “If I have to walk on, that’s what I’ll do,” Moss said. His father said it’s heartbreaking to lose his senior season, because his son had put in so much work in the offseason. He was geared up to prove to colleges he was worth a scholarship offer.
“He’s wanted to play college football since sixth grade. He gave up baseball after his sophomore year because football is his love. In the offseason he gained 20 pounds and knocked a tenth of a second off his 40 time. He’s now 5-11, 205. “He was focused and primed on having a good year,” his father said. “It’s heartbreaking that he’s going to miss all of the things in his senior year. Every Friday night it’s like taking your heart out and throwing it against the wall. “But he’s handling it a thousand times better than his dad is.”
TheHomewoodStar.com
October 2014 • B3
Community Shopping discount card to support Junior League
Suzanne and Joe Hopkins with their boys after the 2013 run.
Legacy League to host 5K for Samford scholarships The third annual Samford Legacy League’s Sunset 5K for Scholarships is set for Oct. 25, rain or shine. The event began three years ago to raise funds for scholarships for Samford University students with financial need. Last year’s event raised more that $4,500 for the scholarship endowment. This year, the event will feature a 5K and 1-mile fun run. The run will start at 4 p.m. in
the Samford Track and Soccer Stadium and will include part of the Lakeshore Greenway. The fun run will begin at 4:45 p.m. Participants who register on or before Oct. 18 are guaranteed a T-shirt. All 5K participants will receive a post-race Full Moon Bar-B-Q dinner. Additional meals will also be available for purchase. Early registration for the 5K is $25 and $20 for anyone with a Samford ID. After Oct. 18,
registration will be $30 and $25 for anyone with a Samford ID. The fun run will be $10. This year, captains of teams with ten or more members will be provided with free registration. To register as a team captain, email legacyleague@samford.edu or call 726-4065. For more information or to register, visit samford.edu/legacyleague or active.com. -Submitted by Kathryn Woodruff
Starting this month you can find discounts at area shops and restaurants through the Junior League of Birmingham’s Shop, Save & Share program. When you purchase a Shop Save & Share card for $40, you receive a 20 percent discount on merchandise and food at more than 530 participating stores and restaurants. Meanwhile, your $40 goes directly to support the League’s 34 community projects. This year’s Shop Save & Share program will run from Oct. 22-Nov. 2. Participating Homewood merchants include Escape Day Spa, Pure Barre, Cahaba Cycles and Stock and Trade. New to the event this year are the McWane Center and the Birmingham Zoo, which will offer cardholders 20 percent off memberships
Arnoult Hollett, Shop Save & Share fundraiser chair, holds a product at participating retailer Escape Day Spa.
during the sale. Visit shopsaveshare.net for a complete retailer listing, to purchase a card and for more information.
Star Wars Reads Day set for Oct. 11 at Homewood Public Library The Homewood Public Library will host its third annual Star Wars Reads Day on Oct. 11 from 1-5 p.m. The Little Professor Bookstore will sponsor a StarWarsPalooza event featuring Luke, Leia, Darth and R2D2. Attendees will have the opportunity to take photos with the characters. Star
Wars costumes are encouraged. Crafts and activities will be available as well as free book giveaways. For more information, visit starwars. com/news/star-wars-reads-day-strikesback-october-11-2014. -Submitted by Alyssa Briggs
The Homewood Star
B4 • October 2014
The freshest of 5Ks
Farmers market run returns to West Homewood in a new month
(above) Attendees at the market held near the race last year. (left) Residents at the Seeds Coffee Co. stand. Photos courtesy of Kenyon Ross.
By MADISON MILLER A fresher and cooler 5K is coming to West Homewood this month. West Homewood Farmer’s Market’s Fresh Start 5K will return on Oct. 18. In 2013, its first year, the race was held in July, which made for uncomfortable temperatures. This year, the market hopes for a fairer
running environment by hosting it in the fall. “[The temperatures] made me miserable when we had it in July,” Market Manager Kenyon Ross said. Along with the change in month, the race will feature better equipment, including an electronic timing system that will give the runners almost immediate results. Prizes will be awarded for first-, second- and third-place runners in both
men’s and women’s categories. The purpose of the run is to raise money to help fund the market in the future. Although staff for the market are volunteers and do not receive personal payment, the market counts on fundraising events such as this to continue its work. Their hope for the run, similar to the hope for their market, is that it will build community and encourage buying local in West Homewood.
“[We want them to] get introduced to this quaint little neighborhood on the other side of 65,” Ross said. The Fresh Start 5K will begin at 8 a.m. on Oct. 18 at 160 Oxmoor Road. The 5K will cost $10 per runner or $25 with a T-shirt. There will also be a children’s fun run free of charge. For more information or to register for the run, visit westhomewood.com.
TheHomewoodStar.com
October 2014 • B5
Fall festival returns to Hall-Kent
Book club holds event with dads
Front row: Ella Dutton, Molly Kathryn Cooper, Anna Johnston, Audrey Nabors, Samantha Le, Julia Rouleau, Caroline Doyal, Cate Fowler, Mary Walton Blomeley, Kate Sims. Back row: Nick Dutton, Chris Cooper, Latta Johnston, Burt Nabors, Michel Lea, Rob Rouleau, Ashley Doyal, Jeff Fowler.
A group of eighth-grade girls enjoyed a special evening with their fathers (and one older brother) at their fourth annual Story Sisters Mother/Daughter Book Club event.
Anna Johnston’s father, Latta, an assistant principal at Homewood High School and former AP European history teacher, led the discussion of Chasing Lincoln’s Killer.
They then dined on a delicious barbecue dinner at the home of Audrey and Burt Nabors. Altogether, The Story Sisters have read more than 40 books together.
Police Department to host trick or treat Visitors dress in costume at last year’s fall festival.
The 80th annual Hall-Kent Elementary School Fall Festival will take place Saturday, Oct. 25 from 3-7 p.m. The Fall Festival will offer a wide variety of activities including a cake walk, gold fish walk, book walk, photo booth, inflatables for children, rides for all ages and a group bake sale. There will also be a silent auction that will feature themed baskets created by each grade level, as well as other items from local businesses. Raffle tickets will also be available for sale.
The festival caters to all age groups and budget ranges. It is Hall-Kent’s only fundraiser for the entire school year and the proceeds go directly to the classrooms for the students. This year, like last year, the Fall Festival’s one-mile Fun Run will take place on Sunday, Oct. 19 at 2 p.m. Organizers ask that participants pre-register for the event. For more information on either event, contact the school at 423-2430. -Submitted by Heather McKittrick
The Homewood Police Department will host a Trick-or-Treat again this Halloween. On Oct. 31, trick-or-treaters can stop by the Homewood Police Department from 5:30-8 p.m. to play games and receive free candy and treats.
Children will also have the opportunity to sit on a Homewood Police motorcycle. The event will be presented by Homewood Citizen’s Police Academy. For more information, call 332-6204.
Fire Safety Family Night to be held at library The Homewood Public Library Children’s Department will host a night of festive and informative fire safety education on Oct. 9 at 6:15 p.m. Homewood Fire Department along with Sparky the fire dog will share their expertise, tips and insider tricks for daily fire safety. Activities will be available for all ages. Homewood Fire and Rescue will provide goodies. At
the end of the evening, attendees can build their own edible gingerbread fire truck to take home. No registration is required. The event will be held in the large auditorium of the Homewood Public Library. For more information, visit homewoodpubliclibrary.org or call 332-6600.
The Homewood Star
B6 • October 2014
Running for BBQ New Homewood Rib Run to benefit Lakeshore Foundation By KATIE TURPEN This isn’t the first time Roger Rocha has combined food, a 5K and a worthy cause. After participating in the Krispy Kreme Challenge in North Carolina, Rocha was inspired to bring the spring Krispy Kreme Doughnut Dash to Birmingham to benefit Children’s of Alabama. This fall, Rocha is not stopping at doughnuts. He’s moved on to something with a little more meat to it. “I thought we needed to do a barbecue-themed race,” said Rocha, who serves as president of Brown Mackie College in Homewood. The Homewood Rib Run is a nonprofit event presented by Brown Mackie College. Rocha said the 5K race, which will take place on Nov. 1, is meant to celebrate everything about the city it is named for. “There are a lot of races in Homewood, but this one actually has Homewood in the title,” Rocha said. The race begins at Homewood City Hall, and the course runs near the Dawson Family Recreation Center and Homewood Central Park. In each mile, participants will receive a rib from Jim ’N Nick’s, Demetri’s BBQ or Bob Sykes BarB-Q. The first 800 runners to register will be guaranteed a rib at each stop. All other runners will receive pulled pork. Since the race is the day after Halloween, Rocha hopes people will show up wearing costumes. For local football fanatics, Rocha said to not to worry. He chose the race date because it is an off week for the University of Alabama and an away game for Auburn.
Homewood Rib Run
•
Nov. 1 8:30 a.m. Homewood City hall ribrun.org The Homewood Rib Rub will benefit the Lakeshore Foundation, a non-profit organization which serves people with physical disabilities throughout Alabama, across the country and around the world. Photo courtesy of Damian Veazy.
All proceeds will benefit the Lakeshore Foundation, a nonprofit organization that serves people with physical disabilities from Alabama as well as from across the country and around the world. Since 1984, the Lakeshore Foundation has helped advance and promote the impact of positive, long-term physical and emotional effects of physical fitness on people with disabilities. “They are really doing some amazing things
over there, and they are located here in Homewood, so we want to support them any way we can,” Rocha said. Participants who have previously competed in the Krispy Kreme Doughnut Dash will receive the Iron Stomach Medal if they complete the Homewood Rib Run. All runners will receive a T-shirt. Pictures will be available after the race on Shutterfly.
Rocha, an avid runner about to compete in his seventh marathon, is excited about introducing the Rib Run in Homewood. “This is a runner-friendly, family-friendly race,” Rocha said. “I think it will be a great thing for Homewood.” For more, visit ribrun.org.
TheHomewoodStar.com
October 2014 • B7
Handmade art show makes its Patriot Park debut
VisonWalk returns to Homewood Central Park
Participants pose at VisionWalk 2013. Photo courtesy of Foundation Fighting Blindness.
Handmade organizers Valerie Holley and Jill Lindsey with participating artist Sally Powell and show founder Carol Richard.
By MADOLINE MARKHAM This month, Homewood will have an outdoor art show to call its own. For 20 years, Handmade has brought a unique selection of local artists’ works to home settings, but this year it will make its park debut. On Oct. 11 from 9 a.m.-5 p.m., around 30 fiber artists, potters, glass artists, painters, woodworkers and jewelry artists will set up their wares in tents around Patriot Park. Food items also made by hand, including a secret recipe chocolate sauce, hummus, breads and cakes, will be for sale. “Art is going to be available that you won’t be able to find at any other art show or any other stores,” said Valerie Holley, who is planning the show this year with her sister and partner in Sister Art Pottery, Jill Lindsey. “I can’t wait to see everyone else’s stuff.”
For the first 15 years, the show was held in the yard of its founder Carol Richard’s home. From there it moved to Cindy’ Parker’s Homewood home. This year Holley and Lindsey worked with Caroline Hubbard of the Homewood Arts Council and the Parks and Recreation Board to move it to a more public space and make it an official Homewood event. “It gives us more freedom to expand the show and allow artists to set up places that are nice and spacious,” Holley said. “We also have more parking, which is a big plus.” Holley said they intend for the show to return to the park each fall but that they plan for the size not to change drastically. “We want to keep it small with a cozy homey feel,” she said. For more information, visit facebook. com/HomewoodArtsCouncil.
The Foundation Fighting Blindness will host its sixth Annual Birmingham VisionWalk on Oct. 25 at Homewood Central Park. VisionWalk raises money to fund cutting-edge research for preventions, treatments and cures for retinal degenerative diseases – including retinitis pigmentosa, macular degeneration, Usher syndrome, and Stargardt disease – that affect more than 10
million Americans. Since the VisionWalk program started in 2006, tens of thousands of people have participated in events across the country to raise more than $28 million for retinal disease research. Registration begins at 10 a.m., and the walk starts at 11 a.m. For more information, visit fightblindness.org.
Rotary club offers chance to win SEC Championship tickets Homewood Rotary Club’s SEC Championship ticket raffle is raising money to support the annual Homewood Education Foundation Scholarship Program, which benefits deserving Homewood High School students in need of financial assistance for education. Tickets are $10 and include an opportunity to win our SEC Championship Atlanta Package donated by Buffalo Rock Company. First place prize will include two tickets to the SEC Championship in Atlanta, a
two-night hotel stay and two tickets to the Dr. Pepper Party. Other prizes will be included as well. The final day to purchase raffle tickets is Oct. 22, and the drawing will be held at the Rotary meeting on Oct. 23 at the Lakeshore Foundation. You can purchase tickets from sechomewoodrotaryal.org or from any Homewood Rotarian. -Submitted by Debbie Roberson
The Homewood Star
B8 • October 2014
Falling for fun
By SYDNEY CROMWELL October means it’s time for all the candy, games and costumes any kid could desire. Have a spookily good time at these churches’ fall festivals
The Fall Festival at Dawson Family of Faith’s recreation center will include inflatables, carnival games and sweets.
Sunday, Oct. 19 From 5 to 7 p.m., join Oakmont United Methodist Church for their free hot dog supper, candy and games. You can also participate in the bake sale and a silent auction, which will include Auburn and Alabama gear. Proceeds from the auction and bake sale will benefit the church. Call 942-4622.
Friday, Oct. 24 Costumes are welcome at Dawson Family of Faith’s carnival-themed festival. The event will include free games, candy and a preschool area, as well as food vendors. The festival will be held in Dawson’s recreation center from 6 to 9 p.m. Call 871-7324.
Sunday, Oct. 26 Homewood Church of Christ’s Trunk or Treat is going to be full of children’s activities, inflatables and loads of food and candy. Get your share of the goodies starting at 4 p.m. Call 942-5683.
Friday, Oct. 31 Add a monster truck to your Halloween with Raleigh Avenue Baptist Church. From 5 to 7 p.m., the church’s Trunk or Treat will include plenty of candy, a bounce house and one enormous truck. Call 942-8060.
TheHomewoodStar.com
October 2014 • B9
School House HMS teacher participates in D.C. food training
Briana Morton teaches home economics at Homewood Middle School.
Homewood Middle School teacher Briana Morton was one of 32 teachers nationwide chosen to complete a food science training program place in Washington, D.C., this summer. The one-week program for middle and high school science teachers, as well as family and consumer science and health education teachers, is a partnership between the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), the National Science Teachers Association (NSTA), and Graduate School USA. The goal of the program is to educate teachers and students about critical food safety issues such as foodborne illnesses by exploring the science behind them. The program arms teachers with a unique topic and curriculum with which to teach science. “Many teenage students have jobs in the food service industry or have food preparation responsibilities at home,” said Louise
Dickerson, FDA’s Project Manager for the Professional Development Program in Food Science. “This program will better educate them about the importance of handling food safely and why precautions must be taken. From FDA’s perspective, our professional development program for teachers is an effective way to support our goal of reducing the incidence of foodborne illness in this country.” During the training, participants learned firsthand about the development and spread of foodborne illnesses; the vulnerability of at-risk populations; and the science behind safe food handling, storage, and preparation. These teachers also learned how to better use the nutrition facts label to assess the nutritional value of foods. In addition, the teachers talked with scientists from FDA and conducted laboratory experiments at the University of Maryland to further increase their understanding of food science.
HHS makes Daily Beast top schools list Homewood High School was named in The Daily Beast’s Top High Schools list for 2014. More than 700 schools made the final list for providing an academically rigorous program that prepares them for college. “These are schools that serve their students well, but are also undoubtedly well-served by their
students’ socioeconomic status, parental involvement, and prior school experiences,” The Daily Beast’s website stated. The Daily Beast based its methodology on available statistics from the Department of Education and school surveys. To come up with the initial pool, they consulted the 2012-2013 data from
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the Department of Education and contacted public schools with above-average graduation rates of at least 85 percent. They compared schools by graduation and college acceptance rates, as well as their academic rigor using AP, IB, and AICE classes and test scores, as well as college admission exams, another indicator of a school’s preparation.
The Homewood Star
B10 • October 2014
Sweet or sour? Shades Cahaba fifth graders recently celebrated learning about the science of food with a “chemical change” taste testing party. In their molecular gastronomy study, the students used the “miracle berry” fruit, a small red berry called synespalum dulcificum, to transform foods they never thought could be so sweet and delicious. According to Linda Bartoshuk at the University of Florida’s Center for Smell and Taste, the cause of the taste reaction is a protein called miraculin, which binds with the taste buds and acts as
a sweetness inducer when it comes in contact with acids. Basically, anything that is inherently sour and or bitter will taste sweet. The students tasted lemons, apple cider vinegar, green apples, grape fruit, salt and vinegar chips, and feta cheese. They documented what they thought the foods would taste like before they tried them and then after they tried them with the Miracle Berry. Shades Cahaba students experiment with the “Miracle Berry’s” powers.
OLS students become Peer Helpers Thirteen eighth graders at Our Lady of Sorrows Catholic School have been selected as Peer Helpers for the 2014-2015 school year. Throughout the year, these students serve as ambassadors for their school for all functions. Their responsibilities include helping other students with art projects,
writing skills, reading and math. In addition, the Peer Helpers assist teachers with various bulletin board projects in the school, as well as tutoring other students. These young people were chosen based on their grade point average, teacher recommendations, interviews and a special questionnaire.
Front row: Michael Hunt, Lauren Griffin, Jackson McCoy, Ferguson Smith, Kate Agena, Elissa Harika. Back row: Christian Burkhalter, Jacob Pugh, Lexi Turner, Katie Foster, Anthony Marino, Jake McGwin. Not pictured: Grace Turner.
When I was elected Sheriff of Jefferson County, I made one basic promise: to keep your neighborhoods and schools safe. I am doing that. You can be proud of the job your Jefferson County Sheriff ’s Office is doing for you.
General Election Nov. 4th
TheHomewoodStar.com
October 2014 • B11
Homewood Real Estate Listings MLS #
Zip
Address
Status
Price
608915
35209
3504 Ashley Circle
New
$309,900
609413
35209
833 Grove St.
New
3504 Ashley Circle
$194,900 609420
35209
1892 Huntington Road, #Lot B
New
$269,000
608548
35209
210 Raymond Drive
New
$284,900
608683
35209
3140 Parkridge Drive, #100
New
$319,780
609467
35209
1410 Clermont Drive
New
$334,900
609065
35209
2011 Lancaster Road
New
$339,900
608745
35209
991 Fern St.
New
$799,000
608314
35226
2492 Huntington Glen Drive
New
$445,900
609184
35209
1149 N Shadesview Terrace
New
$479,780
608337
35226
2608 Ivy Circle
New
$349,900
608506
35209
115 Malaga Ave.
New
$524,900
609364
35209
305 W Glenwood Drive
New
$579,000
609068
35209
107 Yorkshire Drive
New
$615,000
Real estate listings sent to The Homewood Star by Julie Ivy White of Lucas & Associates between Sept. 1 and Sept. 18. Agents and agency vary by property.
991 Fern St.
The Homewood Star
B12 • October 2014
Sports
Homewood Football Recap Decatur
10 - 13
A field goal late in the game sent the Patriots down to defeat in the road game. Decatur’s veteran defense shut down the Pats’ running game.
Vestavia Hills 7 - 17 The Patriots battled the Rebels to a 7-7 halftime tie in the defensive struggle, but a third-quarter field goal and a late Rebels rushing TD by Walker Minor, his second of the game, sealed the 309th win of VHHS coach Buddy Anderson’s career. Derrick Underwood scored on a 2-yard run for the Pats.
Pelham
36 - 30
Junior quarterback Carson Griffis rushed for 281 yards and passed for 87 as the Patriots rolled up over 500 yards of offense. It took a defensive stop, however, on fourth down at the Homewood 3 to seal the win for the Patriots to win their Class 6A, Region 5 opener.
Briarwood
Homewood quarterback Carson Griffis looks for running room as Dixon Simmons blocks in the Patriots’ game against Vestavia Hills. Photo by Karim Shamsi-Basha.
Remaining schedule
28 - 6
10-3 10-10 10-17 10-24 10-31
The Patriots (2-2, 2-0) posted a big Class 6A, Region 5 win over Briarwood as Maurice Mayo scored on a 34-yard pass from Carson Griffis and returned an interception 83 yards for another TD.
For updates on the Patriots’ Sept. 19 game against John Carroll, visit thehomewoodstar.com.
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TheHomewoodStar.com
October 2014 • B13
HOMEWOOD PARKS & RECREATION Homewood Community Center
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 Days & Times: Homewood Community Center – Fitness Studio 2 Tuesday & Thursday: 5:30pm-6:30pm Saturday: 9:00am-10:00am
Young Rembrandts
Draw amazing things with Young Rembrandts! 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. Please contact Chris Roberson at (205) 943-1923 for more information and to register or visit www.youngrembrandts.com to enroll anytime.
Karate
Classes are held 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. For more information call or email Kelly at: 205-552-6129 (or) Kelly.alligood@charter.net www.kellyalligood.com
Belly Dancing with Aziza
Class Location: Homewood Community Center 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. www.azizaofbirmingham.com
YoLIMBER
Vinyasa yoga classes in an energetic environment using upbeat music, synchronizing one’s breath to a flowing series of postures. Devote, detach, and destress for 60 minutes and walk away ready for anything life has to offer. All levels welcome. Private sessions available. Instructor: Marla Hodges Contact info: 205-223-8564 or mac@yolimber.com Days & Times: Monday & Friday 9:30am-10:30am and Saturday 9:00am-10:00am
Dance 4U – Line Dance Class
LINE DANCE FOR A HEALTHIER YOU! “A program designed to encourage movement” Homewood Community Center – Fitness Studio 2 Tuesday 7:00pm-9:00pm / Saturday 11:00am-1:00pm $7/Drop-in - $5/Seniors 65+ - First class is free For additional Info: Rosa Fisher (205) 910-8896 / rosafisher@ yahoo.com
Homewood FIT – Women’s Bootcamp
Join this all women’s bootcamp happening right here in Homewood. A community for women, by women. Join us to lose weight, get faster and get stronger. First time is free, come try us out. Monday & Wednesday – 5:45am-6:45am For more info check out our website: www.homewoodfit.com
Michelle Keel Yoga
My main teaching style is an athletic vinyasa flow class which follows the alignment of Iyengar with the heart opening of Anusara combined with the movement of Ashtanga. I have training and teach Pre/Post Natal classes, Yoga for Fertility and children’s yoga. Thursday 6:00pm-7:00pm Homewood Community Center – Fitness Studio 1 For additional information contact: Michelle Keel at sweetomyoga@hotmail.com www.sweetomyoga.org
Children’s Ballet with Claire Goodhew
Your child can be a fairy, a princess or a butterfly while keeping ballet traditions alive and having fun with classical music. The beginning ballet moves taught are the important foundation for many types of dance. The French names for steps will be introduced. Students will work on coordination, balance, rhythm and flexibility while developing listening skills and strengthening muscles. The environment provided is a happy and age appropriate one. Girls may wear any color leotard and tights for class, with pink ballet shoes. Classes meet once a week on Monday. Times & Location: Monday 4:00pm-4:45pm / Fitness Studio 1 Please contact Claire to enroll or for additional Information: (205) 879-8780
Tango Argentino Fundamentals and Practice
Introductory lessons and guided practice the 1st & 3rd Wednesday of each month. New students are taught basic Tango technique and experienced “milongueros” are encouraged to practice and exchange tips to improve their dancing. Couples and individuals of all ages are welcome. Leather soled shoes recommended; avoid flip-flops, sandals, high platforms or open toe shoes. 1st & 3rd Wednesday of each Month – 7:00pm-8:30pm Homewood Community Center – Fitness Studio 2
Homewood Chess Team
Homewood Chess Team wants you! Beginners are welcome and the first two weeks are always free promo weeks! This year take the plunge and join Dr. Brooks and your current Alabama State Chess Champion Chess Team as we laugh and train in daily mardi-gras bead chess tourneys and compete for prizes in our daily music-driven chess puzzlers and watch zany chess movies and inter-face and inter-train with 20 sister chess teams including every Vestavia and Mountain Brook elementary school, The Randolph School, The Altamont School, Tuscaloosa Academy, The Highlands School, five Catholic schools, and many others. There has never been a party-based approach to chess like this, and Dr. Brooks’ unique, kid-oriented philosophy has made us 50-0 in our history, and counting! Our high-energy chess classes are developmentally and cleverly targeted directly at the kindergarten through 7th-grade set! Learn more and sign up for our school chess team at www.theknightschool.com or call and chat with Dr. Brooks at (205) 746-4952
360 Personal Trainer Fitness Bootcamp
“Holistic sustainable approach to Fitness” Bootcamp style fitness classes at Homewood Community Center. Current Classes: Mon/Wed/ Fri 5:30am-6:30am For more information of class opportunities, fees and descriptions please visit: http://www.homewoodparks.com/fitness/homewood-community-center-fitness/360-personal-trainer-fitness/ Michael Brooks – michaelbrooks360@gmail.com
Acting Out Academy
Acting Out Academy is a kid’s performing arts academy with a focus on contemporary, on-camera acting. Just two years old, Acting Out teaches over 150 kids each year through weekly classes, after-school programs and our wildly popular Movie Camp. In every environment, we combine theatrical play with classical and contemporary technique — to create a well-rounded foundation in theater arts. The core of all of our programs is designed to build self-confidence in young people through the performing arts. Classes at the Homewood Community Center will be on Thursday from 3:30pm-4:30pm (Encore: After School Program) and 4:30pm-5:30pm (Advanced on-camera). For more information and to register go to our website: www.actingoutacademy.com, call 205.440.2699 or email meg@actingoutacademy.com!
Royce Head Personal Training
Everyone benefits from weight training!!! Affordable small group training sessions are available to members in the community center weight room with Royce Head, a certified personal trainer with 15 years’ experience. Each 30 min workout is fast, fun, safe, and effective and each person is started with a program to fit their fitness level. Each workout is a different circuit training routine which keeps heart rate in the fat burning zone while stretching and strengthening all the muscles in the body with extra emphasis on the CORE for a strong back and flat belly. Royce will be available for small group training sessions: Monday - Thursday: 6:30am - 7:30am / 10:00am - 11:00am / 5:30pm - 6:30pm $25 Per Session (or) 12 Sessions for $250 One on one training is available; please call for times and pricing Call Royce for more information: (205) 945-1665
Homewood Senior Center Creative Expression
Mondays, 1:00pm – Sunshiners Senior Chorus, with professional direction and live, professional accompaniment. The chorus occasionally performs at a facility or venue off-site or for peers at the Senior Center. For fun and visual variety, props and minimal costuming are sometimes used. Free to members. Mondays, 2:15pm – Clay Class, taught by JoAnn Brown, recently retired from Homewood School System. Participants may choose the project introduced by the instructor or ‘do their own thing.’ Clay, glazes, and kiln firing are provided. Free to members.
Fitness Classes
Tai Chi – Taught by Galina Waites. Chairs and adapted movements are provided for participants with balance/stamina challenges. Thursdays, 2:00pm. Free to members. Zumba Gold (designed for seniors) w/Tai Chi ‘cool down’ – Tuesdays, 2:15. 45 minutes of Zumba followed by 15 minutes of Tai Chi to ‘cool down’. The last 15 minutes can also serve as an introduction/review for those interested in the Thursday full-hour Tai Chi class. Free to Senior Center Members. $5 for non-members.
Athletics Homewood Youth Basketball League
Online Registration is now available @ www.homewoodparks.com
Registration: Registration Dates: October 1st – October 17th – Will not accept late registrations Age Groups: Coed League: Kindergarten & 1st Grade Boy’s Divisions: 2nd Grade / 3rd Grade / 4th & 5th Grades / 6th Grade / 7th & 8th Grades Girl’s Divisions: 2nd & 3rd Grades / 4th & 5th Grades / 6th & 7th Grades Program Fee: 2nd-8th Grades: $75 Homewood Residents / $150 Non-Residents K – 1st grade (Coed League): $50 Homewood Residents / $100 Non-Residents For additional information visit: www.homewoodparks.com Jakob Stephens at 332-6709 (or) jakob.stephens@ homewoodal.org
Homewood Youth Wrestling
Online Registration is now available @ www.homewoodparks.com Registration: Registration Dates: October 1st – October 24th – Will not accept late registrations Ages: Kindergarten – 6th Grade Program Fees: Homewood Resident Fee: $50 Non-Resident: $100 For additional information contact: Alissa Thurmond at 332-6715 (or) Alissa.thurmond@ homewoodal.org
Special Events Homewood Parks Fall Festival
Saturday, November 1, 2014 10:00am – 2:00pm Homewood Patriot Park Event provides a variety of games, goodies, rides, attractions and candy! Unlimited Attraction Wristband $5.00 per individual For more information contact David Primus at 3326182 (or) david.primus@homewoodal.org
@homewoodparks
www.Homewoodparks.com
The Homewood Star
B14 • October 2014
Calendar Homewood Events Oct. 1-2: Tracks. 7 p.m. Homewood High School Bailey Theatre. $1 for Homewood City Schools students, $5 for the general public.
Stephen G. Post will speak on benevolent love and compassionate care at the interface of science, health, spirituality and philanthropy. Visit samford.edu.
Oct. 3: Homewood Varsity Football vs. Minor. 7 p.m. Homewood High School.
Oct. 10: Homewood Varsity Football vs. Walker. 7 p.m. Homewood High School.
Oct. 5: Magic City Mile. 1:30 p.m. Downtown Homewood. Visit thebellcenter.org or call 879-3417.
Oct. 12: Vulcan AfterTunes Featuring Dumpstaphunk. 3 p.m. Vulcan Park and Museum. $15. Visit visitvulcan.com.
Oct. 7: Bell Center Charity Golf Classic. 11 a.m. Robert Trent Jones Oxmoor Valley. Visit thebellcenter.org. or call 879-3417. Oct. 7: Homewood Night Out. 6-9 p.m. Target at Colonial Brookwood Village. Neighborhood safety fair, food and drink vendors and more. Free. Call Homewood Police Department at 332-6204. Oct. 9: Homewood Chamber Golf Classic. Noon shotgun start. Robert Trent Jones Oxmoor Valley. All proceeds benefit the Homewood Chamber of Commerce. Email director@ homeoodchamber.org or call 871-5631. Oct. 9: J. Roderick Davis Lecture. 7:30 p.m. Samford University Wright Center.
Oct. 13: Homewood Chamber of Commerce Ambassor’s Meeting. 11:30 a.m. Homewood Public Library. Ca;; 871-5631. Oct. 16: West Homewood Night Market. 6-9 p.m. 260 Oxmoor Road. Arts, crafts, coffee, baked goods, plants and pottery available. Visit westhomewood.com. Oct. 19: Oakmont United Methodist Church Fall Festival. 5-7 p.m. Free hot dog supper, candy and games. Call 942-4622. Oct. 23: Second Annual BITE Presented by CM Foodservice. 6-8 p.m. Rosewood Hall. Food samplings from Golden Rule BBQ, PT’s of SoHo,
La Paz-Hoover, Michael’s, Uncle Sam’s Barbecue and Joel’s. Live music and complimentary beer and wine. Tickets are available at cmfoodservicellc.biz. Call Roxane Mackin at 414-1000.. Oct. 24: Dawson Family of Faith’s Carnival-Themed Festival. 6-9 p.m. Recreation Center. Free games, candy and a preschool area, as well as food vendors. Call 8717324. Oct. 24: Homewood Varsity Football vs. Jackson-Olin. 7 p.m. Homewood High School. Oct. 25: Art in Our Gardens. 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Sweet Peas Garden Shop, 2829 Linden Ave. Visit sweetpeasgardenshop.com Oct. 25: Birmingham VisionWalk. 10 a.m. Homewood Central Park. Proceeds benefit Foundation Fighting Blindness. Visit blindness.org. Oct. 25: Hall-Kent Elementary School Fall Festival. 3-7 p.m. Hall-Kent. Call 423-2430. Oct. 25: Samford Legacy League Sunset 5K for Scholarships. 4 p.m. Samford
Track and Soccer Stadium. Visit samford.edu/ legacyleague. Oct. 26: 11th Annual Arts & Crafts Show and Sale. 9 a.m.-noon. Our Lady of Sorrows Catholic Church Family Life Center. Free. Call 8718121. Oct. 26: Vulcan AfterTunes featuring Milo Greene. 3 p.m. Vulcan Park and Museum. $15. Visit visitvulcan.com. Oct. 26: Homewood Church of Christ’s Trunk or Treat. 4 p.m. Children’s activities, inflatables, food and candy. Call 942-5683. Oct. 31: Raleigh Avenue Baptist Church’s Trunk or Treat. 5-7 p.m. Candy, a bounce house and a monster truck. Call 942-8060. Oct. 31: Trick or Treat with Homewood Police Department. 5:30-8 p.m. Homewood Police Department. Call 332-6204. Oct. 31: Homewood Varsity Football vs. Tuscaloosa County. 7 p.m. Homewood High School.
Area Events Oct. 2-5: Marvel Universe Live! Times Vary. BJCC. Ticket prices start at $40. Call 800-745-3000 or visit marveluniverselive.com.
Oct. 3-Nov. 1: Warehouse 31 Haunted House. 6:30 p.m. Pelham Event Center, 3050 Lee Street. Visit warehouse31.com.
Oct. 11: Cask + Drum Music Festival. All day. Lakeview district. $30-$35 general admission. Visit caskanddrum.com.
Oct. 3-Nov. 1: Sloss Fright Furnace Haunted Tour. 5 p.m. Sloss Furnaces. Weeknights: $17 furnace tour, $20 combo ticket. Weekends: $19 furnace tour, $22 combo tickets. Visit frightfurnace.com.
Oct. 4-26: Ride the Pumpkin Patch Express. Saturdays 10 a.m., 1 p.m. and 3 p.m.; Sundays 1 pm. and 3 p.m. Heart of Dixie Railroad Museum, 1919 9th Street, Calera. $17 adults ages 12 and up, $12 children ages 2-11, $12, Free for children under 2.
Oct. 16: Key To The Cure Pink Party. 5-8 p.m. Saks Fifth Avenue. A celebration during the Key To The Cure Charity Shopping Weekend. Saks Fifth Avenue and Saturday Night Live will partner to raise money for St. Vincent’s Birmingham Bruno Cancer Center. Call 298-8550, ext. 204.
Oct. 8: The Head and The Heart with special guest Rayland Baxter. 8 p.m.midnight. Iron City. $27.50 in advance, $30 day-ofshow. Call 202-5483 or visit ironcitybham.com.
Oct. 18: Annual Heritage Festival. 10 a.m.-3 p.m. Jefferson Christian Academy. Families can enjoy a variety of entertainment such as carnival rides, inflatables, live music, and other attractions.
Oct. 3-Nov. 1: Atrox Factory Haunted Tour. 6:30 p.m. Atrox Factory. $18 during the week, $23 on weekends. Call 458-1393 or visit atroxfactory.com.
Visit facebook.com/JeffersonChristianAcademy. Oct. 28: Carrie. 7 p.m. Alabama Theatre. A young, abused and timid 17-year-old girl discovers she has telekinesis, and gets pushed to the limit on the night of her school’s prom by a humiliating prank. 98 min. R. $8. Call 252-2262 or visit alabamatheatre.com. Oct. 31: The Black Jacket Symphony: Michael Jackson’s Thriller. 8 p.m. Alabama Theatre. Tickets start at $51.70. Call 800-745-3000 or visit alabamatheatre.com.
TheHomewoodStar.com
October 2014 • B15
Calendar Homewood Public Library Adults Oct. 2: Top Ten Things You Can Do To Protect Your Eyes. 6:30 p.m. Large Auditorium. Dr. Sara Mullins will speak. Oct. 7: Technology Tuesdays: Get the Most Our of Your iPad and iPhone. 2 p.m. Lucretia M. Somers Boardroom. Jeff Mann, a certified trainer for Alabama Tech-Ease will answer your questions. Oct. 9: Fire Safety Family Night. 6:15 p.m. Large Auditorium. Join us as we welcome the Homewood Fire Department for an important, fun family event full of information you can use. Oct. 11: Third Annual Star Wars Reads Family Day. 1-5 p.m. Large Auditorium. Join us as we partner with Little Professor Book Center for an out-of-this-world family event. Oct. 14: The Oxmoor Page Turners Book Club: The Thirteenth Tale by Diane Setterfield. 6:30 p.m. Boardroom. Oct. 16: Electronics Recycling & Document Shredding. 10 a.m. – 2 p.m. Back Parking Lot. A shredding truck will be here to destroy your sensitive documents and files all for free. Secure hard drive destruction for $10 each. Oct. 16: Neuroscience Café: Clinical and Brain Research in Rett Syndrome. 6:30 p.m. Round Auditorium. Dr. Alan Percy and Dr. Lucas Pozzo-Miller will discuss what research has
uncovered and what treatment options are available for Rett syndrome. Oct. 21: The A, B, C’s of Medicare. 12 and 6 p.m. Room 116, Lower Level. Karen Haiflich will answer your questions about how benefits are currently computed, how to become insured, and how to file a claim. Oct. 24, 25: Mystery Dinner Theatre: Wait Until Dark. 6:30 p.m. Large Auditorium. South City Theatre presents Wait Until Dark, a psychological mystery by Frederick Knott and directed by JJ Mars. Oct. 29: Better Than Therapy Book Club: Orphan Train by Christina Kline Baker. 2 p.m. Lucretia M. Somers Boardroom.
Children Tuesdays and Wednesday: Story Times. 10:30 a.m. All ages are welcome. Thursdays: Mummy & Me. 9:30 and 10:30 a.m. Join Ms. NeNe for this special story time just for younger patrons and their friends. Oct. 13, 27: Monday Movies. 3:30 p.m. Come by the library after school for hot, fresh popcorn and a movie. Oct. 31: Trick or Treat. 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Wear your costume and Trick or Treat throughout the library.
Ordinary Days By Lauren Denton
Waiting Every morning when my so I scoured Scripture for alarm goes off at 5, I pull verses that spoke to how to myself out of bed to log live in the midst of waiting. a couple hours of editing What I found did breathe my novel and researching peace to my anxious heart. literary agents. This long The verses reminded me road (that I hope ends in that great men and women publication!) reminds me who came before me had to how difficult it is to be in a wait on the Lord for their season of waiting. I spent own dreams. What feels what felt like an eternity so crushing and immediDenton waiting to find the man ate in our lives right now who would be my “other half,” then probably won’t always feel that way, together we waited through two long but God gives us a way to truly rest years before finding out we were preg- in our wait. nant with Kate. Now, I’m in another wait for a dream. I’m trying to rest in Be strong and take heart, all you the wait, but I know from experience who hope in the Lord. (Psalms 31:24) I waited patiently for the Lord; He that’s easier said than done. One thing I’ve learned from the turned to me and heard my cry. (Psalms waiting game is that I need to stick 40:1) close to truth — to what Scripture The Lord is good to those whose says about me — rather than pinning hope is in Him, to the one who seeks my self-worth on something that’s so Him. (Lamentations 3:25) out of my control. It’s easy to look at Be still before the Lord and wait every response from an agent or editor patiently for Him. (Psalms 37:7) as a validation or rejection of my skills, even of me as a person. In the same I feel like I’ve spent much of my way, it’s easy to look at test scores, a adult life waiting for one thing or dateless Friday night, a job offer that another, but isn’t that always the life doesn’t pan out, or another negative of a Christian? We can live our lives, pregnancy test as an assessment about love the people around us and pursue who we are, rather than a result of our dreams, but we are always waitliving in this messy, fallen world. ing on the day of glory that is to come. Several years ago, in the midst of As it is said at Red Mountain Church, our season of fertility doctors, I read we are living in the “now but not yet.” this verse from Isaiah: “If only you May God give us courage and patience had paid attention to my commands, as we wait for all that is to come. Lauren can be reached at LaurenKyour peace would have been like a river, your well-being like the waves Denton@gmail.com. You can also find of the sea.” I craved peace in the her on Twitter @LaurenKDenton. middle of our chaos and uncertainty,