Vestavia Voice April 2015 by Starnes Media

Volume 2 | Issue 12 | April 2015

Park possibilities

Award winner

Learn who you voted as this year’s Community Member of the Year and how he is making a difference in the lives of those around him.

See page A18

Home Guide

City making plans for new park at Altadena Valley Country Club Find tips for your home this spring from area business owners in our guide to all things home and garden.

See page B1

By SYDNEY CROMWELL The 18-hole golf course and clubhouse of Altadena Valley Country Club may be replaced by athletic fields and picnic tables. The city of

Golfers enjoy the 18-hole course at Altadena Valley Country Club, where the city is planning to construct a park with walking and biking trails. Photo by Sydney Cromwell.

Vestavia Hills is in negotiations with the country club’s landowners to turn part of the 90-acre property into a new recreational facility. City Manager Jeff Downes said that responses to the 2014 citizen survey prompted

the quest to build a new park. Only 45 percent of residents reported satisfaction with the number of walking and biking trails, 50 percent

See PARK | page A26

INSIDE City .....................A5 Business ............A8 Community .......A15 Home Guide.......B1

School House.....B13 Sports .................B17 Calendar .............B21

Dogwood Festival returns for 51st year By REBECCA WALDEN

Pre-Sort Standard U.S. Postage PAID Memphis, TN Permit #830

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The spirit of Vestavia Hills is embodied in the annual Dogwood Festival, a time for the community to gather together. This month, the festival celebrates its 51st anniversary with three days of special activities including the Dogwood Luncheon, the second annual Art in the Hills event, and the Vestavia Belle Presentation and Garden Party. The Vestavia Hills Beautification Board sponsors the festival and uses event proceeds to purchase trees and seasonal holiday decor for City Hall, the Senior Lodge and the Dogwood Room. Beautification Board Chair Anne Boston said the board is also in

See DOGWOOD | page A27

The Vestavia Belles are an integral part of the city’s annual Dogwood Festival. Photo courtesy of Vestavia Hills Beautification Board.

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A4 • April 2015

Vestavia Voice

About Us Meet our new staff members Don Harris

Marketing Consultant Don Harris, a graduate of LSU, has been in the newspaper advertising business since 1981, working in sales and management at Shreveport Times, The Town Talk and most recently 14 years at The Birmingham News-Alabama Media Group. His specialty is working with small to medium businesses and tailoring creative and ad targeting to give them the most for their advertising dollars.

Roy L. Williams,

Community Reporter Roy L. Williams spent nearly 23 years as a reporter for The Birmingham News covering personal finance, business, tourism and Birmingham City Hall. Since 2013, he has been the host of Biz Talk With Roy Williams on WAGG Heaven 610 AM, and he is the author of 911, God Help Us: A Journalist’s Tale of Faith, a memoir about his faith walk after his oldest brother was killed in the 9/11 attack on the Pentagon.

Editor’s Note By Rebecca Walden Two weeks ago, from the past that permeates so much orchestra section vantage of his music. No offense to our twenpoint of the BJCC Concert Hall, My husband Rett and I ty-something former selves, shared one of those kindred but we just didn’t “get it” married moments, when your back then. spouse turns to you and says In my college years, out the loud the very same somewhere between the thing you were just thinking. demise of compact disc “This music means more to retail stores and the dawn me now,” he said, squeezing of Napster, I wandered into my hand as we sat there soakthe Tuscaloosa Coconuts Walden ing up the earnest heartland and paid 15 hard earned dolrock of one John Mellencamp. lars from my student-work gig at Gorgas Indeed. Library to purchase Mellencamp’s “The That night he closed out the show with Best That I Could Do” album. “Cherry Bomb,” and I couldn’t help but One of the best features of the 1998 laugh when the audience enthusiastically Corolla I drove at the time was the stejoined him in the third verse: reo’s CD repeat button, which I imme“Got a few kids of my own, diately set for Track 4 – Jack and Diane And some days I still don’t know what – and left alone most of the summer of to do. ‘99. I hope that they’re not laughing too It’s cute and catchy and clever, but loud, beyond that, I never gave the song or the When they hear me talking like this to rest of the album much thought. you!” But now, nearly two decades later, this At 37 and 42, respectively, we can music endures. I can still listen to these really hear and appreciate the lyrical songs and find something new and comwisdom of simpler times and generations pelling and relatable.

Not that I don’t love me some Mother Monster, Pitbull and that entire cadre of highly manufactured “music” that has its rightful (workout playlist) place on my iPod. But as infectious as those songs of the moment may be, the time between that “turn it up!” sweet spot and “turn it off!” saturation point is extremely short lived. I’ve got plenty of $1.29 iTunes downloads I wish I could return. Here in Vestavia Hills, we’re hardly the “Small Town” of Mellencamp’s imagination. But we are blessed with countless venues in and around our city to take in the thought provoking, toe tapping, and good old-fashioned fun experience of hearing live music. From the edgy and upcoming artists out there to those we know and love, musical artistry surrounds us. In the words of Mellencamp himself, Check It Out. Cheers,

Contact Information:

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

Contributing Photographer: Copy Editor: Published by:

Dan Starnes Keith McCoy Emily VanderMey Rebecca Walden Madoline Markham David Knox Katie Turpen Roy Williams Sydney Cromwell Madison Miller Matthew Allen Rhonda Smith Warren Caldwell Michelle Salem Haynes Don Harris Karim Shamsi-Basha Louisa Jeffries Vestavia Voice LLC

Vestavia Voice #3 Office Park Circle Suite 316 Birmingham, AL 35223 313-1780 dan@vestaviavoice.com

Please submit all articles, information and photos to: Rebecca@vestaviavoice.com P.O. Box 530341 Birmingham, AL 35253

For advertising contact: dan@vestaviavoice.com Legals: Vestavia Voice is published monthly. Reproduction or use of edi-

torial or graphic content without prior permission is prohibited. The Vestavia Voice is designed to inform the Vestavia community of area school, family and community events. Information in the Vestavia Voice is gathered from sources considered reliable but the accuracy cannot be guaranteed. All articles/photos submitted become the property of the Vestavia Voice. 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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Please Support our Sponsors 30 A Realty (A5) A Little Something (A16) Adventure Travel (A17) Alabama Acura Dealers/Birmingham (R.P.A) (A1, A19) Alabama Allergy & Asthma Center (B18) Alabama Gaslight & Grill (B19) Alabama Outdoors (A10) Alabama Power (B12) American Pest Control (B7) Andy On Call (B8) Arts on the Plaza (A6) ARC Realty (B1) Ashway Press (A17) At Home Furnishings (B9) Bahama Bucks (A12) Baker Lamps & Linens (B8) BAM Sports Grill (B13) Bar 31 (A10) Barganier & LeCroy Dentistry (A16) Batts’ Chimney Services (B10) Bedzzz Express (B24) Birmingham Duplicate Bridge Club (A26) Birmingham Heart Clinic (A25) Birmingham Museum of Art (A2) Birmingham Speech and Hearing Associates (A23) Bistro V (A13) Brandino Brass (B20) Breakaway Books - Red Dirt (B21) Bruster’s Real Ice Cream (A14) Cabinetry Refinishing & Restoration (A1) Cahaba Lawn (B4) California Closets (A26) Children’s of Alabama (A25) Classic Gardens (B10) Conour Insurance Inc. (B23) Construx (B2) ENT for Kids Alabama (A22) Eye See Optical (B23) Fancy Goods Variety (B17) Fi-Plan Partners (A7) Glenwood Incorporated (B20) Granite Transformations (B21) Great Clips Greystone and Cahaba Heights (A15) Hendrick Hoover Auto Mall (A13, B18) Hollywood Pools Outdoor Finishings & Spas (B7) Homewood Toy & Hobby (A22) Hoover Title Mart (A6) Issis & Sons / O Advertising (B3) John Henley State Farm Insurance (B23) Junior League of Birmingham (A9) Kidz Closet Consignment (A12) Lori Zucco Insurance Company (B22) Mantooth Interiors (A8) Monograms Plus (A12) Moran’s Rocky Ridge Hardware (B5) Morningside at Riverchase (A19) MortgageBanc-Walter Hunter (B4) Mountain Brook Art Association (A11) Mr. Chen’s Authentic Chinese (A26) Over the Mountain Glass (B22) Pappas’ Grill (B14) Pars Gallery of Fine Oriental Rugs (B15) Planet Fitness (A21) RealtySouth Jana Hanna (A11) RealtySouth Marketing (B11) Red Mountain Theatre Company (A27) Red Pearl Restaurant (A15) Remax Southern Homes - Becky Hicks (B14) Rocky Ridge Learning Center (B13) Royal Automotive (A28) St. Peter’s Anglican Church (A8) Tangles Hair Salon (A8) Taylor Burton Company (B6) The clothes tree (B16) The Maids (B17) The Pit Crew (B19) The UPS Store - Cahaba Heights (B19) UAB Division of Geriatrics and Gerentology (A27) Uptown Nail Spa (A9) Urban Home Market (A3) Vestavia Hills Lutheran Church (B14) Vestavia Sunoco and Tire Express (A14) Vitalogy Wellness Center (A23) Vitalogy Wellness Center (B16) Water Drainage Solutions (A9) Weigh To Wellness (A21)

A4 • April 2015

Vestavia Voice

About Us Meet our new staff members Don Harris

Roy L. Williams,

Contact Information:

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

Contributing Photographer: Copy Editor: Published by:

Vestavia Voice #3 Office Park Circle Suite 316 Birmingham, AL 35223 313-1780 dan@vestaviavoice.com

Please submit all articles, information and photos to: Rebecca@vestaviavoice.com P.O. Box 530341 Birmingham, AL 35253

For advertising contact: dan@vestaviavoice.com Legals: Vestavia Voice is published monthly. Reproduction or use of edi-

Please recycle this paper

Please Support our Sponsors 30 A Realty (A5) A Little Something (A16) Adventure Travel (A17) Alabama Acura Dealers/Birmingham (R.P.A) (A1, A19) Alabama Allergy & Asthma Center (B18) Alabama Gaslight & Grill (B19) Alabama Outdoors (A10) Alabama Power (B12) American Pest Control (B7) Andy On Call (B8) Arts on the Plaza (A6) ARC Realty (B1) Ashway Press (A17) At Home Furnishings (B9) Bahama Bucks (A12) Baker Lamps & Linens (B8) BAM Sports Grill (B13) Bar 31 (A10) Barganier & LeCroy Dentistry (A16) Batts’ Chimney Services (B10) Bedzzz Express (B24) Birmingham Duplicate Bridge Club (A26) Birmingham Heart Clinic (A25) Birmingham Museum of Art (A2) Birmingham Speech and Hearing Associates (A23) Bistro V (A13) Brandino Brass (B20) Breakaway Books - Red Dirt (B21) Bruster’s Real Ice Cream (A14) Cabinetry Refinishing & Restoration (A1) Cahaba Lawn (B4) California Closets (A26) Children’s of Alabama (A25) Classic Gardens (B10) Conour Insurance Inc. (B23) Construx (B2) ENT for Kids Alabama (A22) Eye See Optical (B23) Fancy Goods Variety (B17) Fi-Plan Partners (A7) Glenwood Incorporated (B20) Granite Transformations (B21) Great Clips Greystone and Cahaba Heights (B22) Hendrick Hoover Auto Mall (A13, B18) Hollywood Pools Outdoor Finishings & Spas (B7) Homewood Toy & Hobby (A22) Hoover Title Mart (A6) Issis & Sons / O Advertising (B3) John Henley State Farm Insurance (B23) Junior League of Birmingham (A9) Kidz Closet Consignment (A12) Lori Zucco Insurance Company (B22) Mantooth Interiors (A8) Monograms Plus (A12) Moran’s Rocky Ridge Hardware (B5) Morningside at Riverchase (A19) MortgageBanc-Walter Hunter (B4) Mountain Brook Art Association (A11) Mr. Chen’s Authentic Chinese (A26) Over the Mountain Glass (A15) Pappas’ Grill (B14) Pars Gallery of Fine Oriental Rugs (B15) Planet Fitness (A21) RealtySouth Jana Hanna (A11) RealtySouth Marketing (B11) Red Mountain Theatre Company (A27) Red Pearl Restaurant (A15) Remax Southern Homes - Becky Hicks (B14) Rocky Ridge Learning Center (B13) Royal Automotive (A28) St. Peter’s Anglican Church (A8) Tangles Hair Salon (A8) Taylor Burton Company (B6) The clothes tree (B16) The Maids (B17) The Pit Crew (B19) The UPS Store - Cahaba Heights (B19) UAB Division of Geriatrics and Gerentology (A27) Uptown Nail Spa (A9) Urban Home Market (A3) Vestavia Hills Lutheran Church (B14) Vestavia Sunoco and Tire Express (A14) Vitalogy Wellness Center (A23) Vitalogy Wellness Center (B16) Water Drainage Solutions (A9) Weigh To Wellness (A21)

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April 2015 • A5

City Mayor’s Minute

By Alberto “Butch” Zaragoza It is once again springtime in our beautiful Vestavia Hills. I hope the beginning of this season finds you out with your family and friends, enjoying the many amenities our community has to offer. In City Council news, our March 9 meeting resulted in approval for the initial phase of the Cahaba Heights redevelopment plan. This involves a mix of commercial, retail and also road improvements along Dolly Ridge Road. We are working closely with the school system to make sure carpool lines are minimally impacted. Regarding plans for this area overall, we are still in the early phases – City Manager Jeff Downes has four or five additional projects he’s working on in cooperation with property owners. We envision this all coming to fruition over the next three to five years, and that the result will create a village atmosphere within Cahaba Heights. In the Highway 31 corridor, I know residents are following closely the development progress of our new City Hall, as well as the activity taking place on the respective future sites of Sprouts and America’s First Federal Credit Union. The reality is that the weather has played havoc with our schedules, but we are still forging ahead. I’m pleased to report that City Hall construction is still slated for completion in September 2015. In other news, the City of Vestavia Hills

has begun working with the Jefferson County EMA in putting together Everbridge, an emergency notification system. Individual citizens can sign up for Everbridge to receive notifications of weather conditions, including flooding and other natural disasters, road closures and related EMA type information. We encourage everyone to go to the Everbridge site and register your information to be a part of this notification system. This will be on a secure site and will not be shared with anyone. In conclusion, no April in our City would be complete without the annual tradition of our Mayor’s Prayer Breakfast. It is an event I very much look forward to each year, and I hope you will all make plans to attend. This year is our 25th annual Mayor’s Prayer Breakfast and will be held Tuesday, Apr. 28 at 7:30 a.m. at Vestavia Country Club. Our speaker will be Bob Lujano who is a quadruple amputee and a Quad Rugby Paralympics athlete. Tickets are $20 each and may be purchased by calling the Vestavia Hills Chamber of Commerce at 8235011 or by visiting vestaviahills.org. Your Mayor,

Alberto “Butch” C. Zaragoza

Cahaba Brook apartments sold

Cahaba Brook Apartments, located at 3286 Bearden Court, has been sold as part of a package deal with Cahaba Park Apartments in Homewood.

By SYDNEY CROMWELL Cahaba Brook Apartments, located at 3286 Bearden Court, has been sold as part of a package deal with Cahaba Park Apartments in Homewood. Joshua Jacobs, an investment sales associate at Berkadia, brokered the sale of the two apartment complexes. He did not disclose the ﬁnal sale price or the names of the buyer and seller, though he noted that both were local ﬁrms. Jacobs said the properties were sold as an LLC membership interest transfer agreement. The two properties are listed on the Berkadia Real Estate Advisors website as part of the Carmel Road Portfolio, which Jacobs said consists of seven metro area properties. Two other properties in the portfolio were also sold to different buyers.

Timing and market demand, Jacobs said, were among the reasons the original property owner decided to sell. “The Birmingham market is extremely active right now when it comes to multifamily transactions,” Jacobs said. “It is a seller’s market right now.” The new owners of Cahaba Brook are planning renovations for its interior. Jacobs noted that this would increase the value of the twostory complex, which covers 28,164 square feet and includes 20 apartment units. Though no immediate rent increases are planned, Jacobs expects the renovations’ impact on property value will raise prices in the future. “It’s positive changes for the residents and the community,” Jacobs said. To learn more about this transaction, Jacobs can be reached at 913-5965.

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Vestavia Voice

Vestavia Hills ranked among state’s safest cities By KATIE TURPEN Vestavia Hills was listed as the fifth safest city in Alabama on Feb. 18, according to SafeWise.com. Ahead of it on the list were Mountain Brook, Margaret, Helena and Southside. To compile this report, SafeWise used the most recent FBI crime data from 2012 to analyze and rank these cities, which all have a minimum population of 5,000 people. SafeWise analyzed crimes from Part 1 of the FBI Unified Crime Report (UCR), which focuses on violent crimes (aggravated assault, forcible rape, murder and robbery) as well as property crimes (arson, burglary, larceny-theft and motor vehicle theft). From there, SafeWise calculated the chances

of these crimes happening out of one thousand in order to level the playing field for cities of varying populations. From all of the cities in Alabama, SafeWise narrowed the list down to 30 and assigned rankings according to data provided by the FBI’s UCR report. “The Safest Cities report is used by many firsttime homebuyers, apartment hunters and travelers to determine the safest places to buy, rent and stay in Alabama,” said Elli Bishop, SafeWise press liaison. “These cities deserve recognition for the efforts of their citizens, police department and local and state government to make Alabama a great place to live.” SafeWise.com is a community-focused security organization made up of home security experts with more than 75 years of combined industry experience.

Vestavia Hills was listed as the fifth safest city in the Alabama on Feb. 18 according to SafeWise.com.

Help the Hills event to feature NBA medical director By KATIE TURPEN

Dr. Steve Taylor talks to parents and teens

Dr. Steve Taylor

Help the Hills town hall meeting Tuesday, April 7, 6 p.m. Vestavia Hills United Methodist Church, Tyson Hall

On April 7, Help the Hills will present a town hall meeting featuring Dr. Steve Taylor, addiction and recovery expert and medical director of the player assistance program of the National Basketball Association (NBA). For the past 19 years, Taylor has worked as a licensed, board certified general, child/adolescent and addiction

psychiatrist. He is also certified by the American Board of Addiction Medicine as a specialist in addiction medicine, and has focused his training on the specialized care of adolescents and young adults with drug and alcohol abuse and addiction illnesses and general psychiatric disorders. Taylor’s presentation will be followed by simultaneous breakout sessions: one for parents and one for teens. He will

answer parents’ questions, and a special teen panel will answer questions from teens. Help the Hills was formed in an effort to foster open dialogue with parents, educators and community leaders. The organization hopes to provide information, tips and strategies to help parents have necessary conversations. For more information, visit leadershipvestaviahills.com.

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April 2015 • A7

Council talks Cahaba Heights development By KATIE TURPEN

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During a February meeting, the City Council approved an agreement with Sain Associates for the design of a roadway adjacent to Vestavia Hills Elementary School Cahaba Heights. City Manager Jeff Downes said the project is part of a supplement to the Cahaba Heights Master Plan. The roadway will serve as a through street between Dolly Ridge Road and Cahaba Heights Road and will extend to Oakview Lane and provide new turnouts to the elementary school. “This is important for economic development in that area of Cahaba Heights,” Downes said. “This agreement allows the engineers to construct a drawing and could also lead to the future acceptance of a bid for on-street parking.” Councilman Jim Sharp added that the road would help take traffic away from Dolly Ridge Road. The project cost is set not to exceed $20,600, and Downes said it could potentially be complete by

accessed off of Manor Brook Drive as well as constructing the beginning of a shared parking facility with a neighboring parcel. The parking proposed meets the minimum parking requirements for a medical office. The design is being prepared by Pressnell Engineering. The second property is located directly adjacent to Cahaba Heights Elementary School on Dolly Ridge Road. The owners have submitted two development plans for a future dermatology practice. The preferred plan builds on the previously approved design to the building to the south. The second plan shows a distinct break to the building to the south with parking in the front.

the beginning of the upcoming 201516 school year. In March, the council approved the rezoning of several properties along Dolly Ridge Road from residential to neighborhood mixed-use.

One property is located at 4300 Dolly Ridge Road near Manor Brook Drive. Owners Troy and Barbara Peters are seeking to build a 2,400-square-foot orthodontic office. The owners proposed five spots to be

In other news, the council; }} Announced that applications to fill a vacancy on the Vestavia Hills Board of Education are now available at City Hall. The application deadline is Monday, April 13 at 5 p.m. Interviews will be conducted

of all candidates. The vote of the city council will be held at the meeting on Monday, April 27. }} Heard a presentation from Chamber of Commerce President Karen Odle on the new map for the city of Vestavia Hills. }} Approved a resolution authorizing the city manager to lease/purchase a communications system. }} Approved a resolution for the purchase of a speed awareness monitor trailer for the purpose of monitoring traffic and maintaining road safety. }} Entered into a purchase/sale agreement for real estate on 2221 Columbiana Road. The 4acre site has been previously used for lacrosse and soccer practices and the city sees it as valuable for future parks and recreation activities. }} Passed a resolution accepting a bid for managed exchange mailbox services for the city.

Texas-based burger joint coming to Rocky Ridge district By KATIE TURPEN AND REBECCA WALDEN The former Moe’s Original Bar B Que location at 2501 Rocky Ridge Road will soon be the home of a new burger joint called Twisted Root Burger Company. Tyler Bradford and Stutts Everette of Southpace Properties recently represented Twisted

Root Burger Company in the leasing of the 3,759-square-foot property in Vestavia Hills. This will be the first location in the Birmingham area for the burger concept. Originally based in Dallas, Texas, Twisted Root’s special offerings include regular and wild game hamburgers as well as hand-spun milkshakes with liquor. In 2009, one of the restaurant’s locations was featured on the television

show Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives. For former property owner Lee Wooten, whose family has owned the property since 1943, it was never about replacing Moe’s with just any tenant. He turned down several interested parties, including a paint store, on grounds that they were not a good fit for the area. “I want my family to feel a sense of pride when they drive by,” he said. “They should see

a nice building and a successful business occupying it.” There will be outdoor seating, 15 new parking spaces and a new exit in the back that will connect to Ridgedale Drive. For more about Twisted Root Burger Company, visit twistedrootburgerco.com.

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Now Open Bahama Buck’s Original Shaved Ice is now open in Cahaba Heights at 3177 Green Valley Road. 639-1206, bahamabucks.com

OnMark Physical Therapy has opened a new ofﬁce at 4704 Cahaba River Road, Suite J2. The clinic specializes in outpatient physical therapy rehabilitation. 298-8711, onmarkpt.com

Coming Soon Texas-based Twisted Root Burger Co. will open its ﬁrst Alabama location at the former location of Moe’s Original Bar B Que, 2501 Rocky Ridge Road. No timeline has been announced for its opening. twistedrootburgerco.com

Over Easy, a restaurant specializing in breakfast, will be opening soon in the Dolly Creek Station shopping center at 4209 Acton Road, Suite 153. This will be their second location in Birmingham; the ﬁrst is located on Hollywood Boulevard between Homewood and Mountain Brook. 639-1910, overeasybham.com

Relocations and Renovations Spa Works & Wellness has moved 5 to 2028 Kentucky Ave., Suite 206. The business offers facials, waxing, spray tanning, makeup and more. It is owned by Shannon Powell. 823-2001

April 2015 • A9

News and Accomplishments President James Keller celebrated his 20th anniversary with Adventure Travel, 1000 Chestnut Street, Suite 200. Keller was honored at Adventure Travel’s annual meeting in Atlanta in January. 380-5500, adventuretravel.com

“When it rains, we drain!”

Western Supermarket, 3350 Morgan Drive, was recognized by the National Grocers Association as one of 19 “outstanding stores” nationwide. It also received the “Wow Factor” from the organization for a recent remodel of the store. 822-5920, westernsupermarkets.com

Hirings and Promotions Adventure Travel has welcomed Serena Simmons as an expert meeting planner to assist in handling its growing meetings, incentives and groups department. 1000 Chestnut Street, Suite 200. 380-5500, adventuretravel.com

Pit Crew TFS, 2498 Rocky Ridge Road, has hired Keith Bordelon as its new manager. Bordelon has more than 40 years of experience in the automotive repair industry. 593-4170, pitcrewtfs.com

Closings Rocky Ridge Pharmacy, 3346 Morgan Drive, has closed. Existing prescriptions and customer records were bought by CVS/Pharmacy at 2480 Rocky Ridge Road.

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Spring Fever Offers!

A10 • April 2015

Vestavia Voice

Chamber

Audra Willingham, Cushman & Wakeﬁeld | EGS and David Clark, Zeekee Interactive.

Jeff Brown of Brownstone Marketing; Ethan Vice, district office field director, and Ray Melick, district director and local media liaison, Gary Palmer’s 6th District Congressional Office.

Chuck Conour, Conour Insurance and Philip Richards, Farmers Insurance. Photos by Rebecca Walden.

March Chamber speaker sheds light on 2015-16 economic outlook By REBECCA WALDEN Adding levity to the seemingly humorless topic of the nation’s economic health, Oakworth Capital Managing Director and Head of Wealth Management John Norris both informed and entertained Chamber members and guests during his March 10 luncheon address. “Technology isn’t going to come into work late on May the 6th and then suddenly feel ‘under the weather’ because they partied too hard on Cinco de Mayo,” Norris quipped early in his remarks, as he emphasized the point that business owners will always choose the higher yield and lower cost investment of tech versus

human capital. Speaking of the U.S. labor market, while Norris acknowledged the impressive numbers of job creation from the last year, he also made the point that most of the jobs created over the last decade are in retail, food service and other sectors punctuated by lower pay. “Purchasing power over the last decade has not done anything, really — it’s not gone up or down,” Norris said. “But the average American worker’s wage, when adjusted for inﬂation, has stagnated. You also have fewer people working, 59.3 percent to be exact, so in reality, median household income is going down.” Norris also discussed his expectations for

improvement in the U.S. trade deficit, buoyed largely by the rapid appreciation of the U.S. dollar relative to other currencies. Throughout his remarks, Norris consistently stated that he expects the U.S. economy to reflect 2.5 percent growth over the 2015 calendar year. “In this field, you can only make predictions based on what you know; I won’t go down any rabbit holes,” he said. “One likely event we can expect is that the Fed will raise rates this year, as many expect will happen. What we don’t know is how much they will raise rates and when that will occur. But based on what I have seen, if you liked what happened in 2014, you’re going to like 2015.”

Preview of

April

Luncheon Join the Vestavia Chamber for its next monthly luncheon, taking place April 14 with keynote speaker Danny Malloy of the Addiction Prevention Coalition. The luncheon begins at 11:30 a.m. at Vestavia Country Club. For luncheon tickets, visit vestaviahills.org

Soul Food Kitchen

The Best Meat & Veggies in Vestavia Lunch Hours: Mon-Fri 11 am - 3 pm On Hwy 31 Across From Arby’s 1485 Montgomery Hwy, Vestavia Hills, Al Dine in or carry out • 824.3160

www.bar31vestavia.com

vestaviavoice.com

April 2015 • A11

Meeting a new generation of printing demand By ROY L. WILLIAMS A small tech company is transforming the way college students across the country print documents, and a Vestavia Hills resident is helping lead the way. WEPA, founded in 2008, was created to address the needs of students in a technological era that requires access to documents on the go via smart phones, tablets and laptops. How does it work? WEPA uses a cloud-based print system that allows students “on the go” to upload reports and other documents using their mobile devices. They can then print the documents at any WEPA print kiosk located on their college campus or even any WEPA print kiosk across the country. Although the company is seven years old, WEPA didn’t really take off and begin to reach its potential until majority partners Jim Thompson and Philip Crane of Mountain Brook took over in 2012, said Chief Technology Officer Raj Batchu of Vestavia Hills, who has been involved with WEPA since the beginning in 2008. “I’ve seen this company from the beginning when it was just an idea in a garage,” he said. “They have provided the leadership and business structure that we needed.” An evolving world in which technology allows folks to access the Internet anywhere has led to WEPA’s growth. “Students started bringing smart

Philip Crane and Raj Batchu stand in front of the printing stations their company services for college students.

phones, tablets, laptops and other devices everywhere, and we evolved to fill a void,” Batchu said. “Schools didn’t have the technology to adapt to new high-tech devices and that’s where WEPA stepped in.” WEPA is one of the first printing providers to take cloud-based printing to higher education, Batchu said. “A typical university would be working with three or four parties – a printing company, software company, a paper

supplier, and a consumable provider. WEPA takes care of all of those needs and more.” WEPA’s typical client is a college that desires to meet the printing needs of today’s students. The company works with 90 colleges across the country, including UAB, George Washington University, Texas Tech University, University of Georgia, University of Arizona and University of Maryland. The company also

partners with three local high schools, Mountain Brook, Hoover and Shades Valley. Altogether WEPA’s 900 kiosks print out in excess of 1 million pages per week. “We have nearly a million registered users, and the numbers are growing every week. The potential is unlimited,” Crane said, noting there are thousands of colleges across the country that could utilize their services.

Batchu said WEPA is heavily focused on the northeastern United States but in 2015 “our focus is on our backyard in the Southeast.” Crane said WEPA’s game plan calls for “controlled, meaningful growth” with strategic university partners. “Our long-term goal is to become the nation’s leading provider of print services on college campuses,” he said. Crane said WEPA’s success has been based on partnerships built with universities across the country. “We are not a sell-and-depart company. It is a true relationship that we foster and develop over time. WEPA stays on the forefront of technology to continue offering innovative and creative ways to enhance student printing needs on campus.” The biggest advantages WEPA offers, Crane said, are highly secured printing services that provide peace of mind and top customer service. “Our kiosks are stand-alone units allowing colleges to offer them in easy-to-find locations for students, just like ATMs,” he said. “I am proud to be locally owned. Our kiosks are built here in Alabaster, and we are proud that our supplier is a local entity, EBSCO.”

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A12 • April 2015

Vestavia Voice

Searching for a cure Vestavia residents active in Parkinson’s disease awareness efforts

Parkinson Association of Alabama presents Taste for a Cure Thursday, April 23, 6:30 p.m. Old Car Heaven $75 per person parkinsonalabama.com

By KATIE TURPEN

PAA Board President Ken Cater sits beside Vestavia Hills resident Dr. David Standaert, chair of the UAB neurology department. Photo courtesy of Mary T Miller.

Parkinson’s disease impacts an estimated one million people in the United States, according to the National Parkinson Foundation. Local residents are working hard to raise awareness and research the disease. The Parkinson Association of Alabama (PAA) recently named Vestavia Hills resident Mary T. Miller as its executive director. The organization works closely with UAB, where local resident David Standaert is the chair of the neurology department. Parkinson’s disease is defined as a progressive neurological disorder associated with a loss of dopamine-generating cells in the brain. Dopamine is a chemical that sends messages to the part of the brain that controls movement and coordination. As Parkinson’s progresses, the amount

vestaviavoice.com

April 2015 • A13

Parkinson’s Disease As many as

1,000,000

7-10

Americans live with Parkinson’s disease

60,000 Americans are diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease each year

Men are

$25

billion

1.5 times

is the combined direct and indirect cost of Parkinson’s disease per year in the U.S.

more likely to have Parkinson’s than women

Data source, Parkinson’s Disease Foundation of dopamine produced in the brain decreases, leaving a person unable to control movement normally. There are also many more non-motor symptoms. The four key motor symptoms of Parkinson’s disease are tremor of the hands, arms, legs or jaw; muscle rigidity or stiffness of the limbs and trunk; slowness of movement; and postural instability. Other common symptoms include dementia or confusion, fatigue, sleep disturbances, depression and anxiety.

All of these symptoms can vary from person to person. Founded in 1978, PAA is a local nonprofit organization committed to providing support, encouraging action, increasing awareness, and supporting research to lead to new and improved treatments for Parkinson’s disease. PAA is the only organization that represents all Parkinson’s patients in the state, and the board of directors remains current on the latest

million

of people with the disease are diagnosed by the age of

legislative and research information. Miller worked for 10 years for Cumberland School of Law at Samford University, where she was the director of alumni. She is excited to combine her passion, skills and experience to help the foundation through various research and fundraising activities. “My main goal is to increase awareness of who we are and what we are doing,” said Miller. “We work a lot with the UAB neurology department.

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$2,500 a year

They are leaders in research of Parkinson’s disease.” Standaert explains the biggest misconceptions surrounding the disease. “The most common myth is that there is no treatment,” said Standaert. “This simply isn’t true. We have a number of excellent treatments that can greatly improve the symptoms and restore a good quality of life for many years. Most of these medications are based on replacing the missing dopamine through one means or another.

There are also important effects of non-medication treatments, especially exercise. What we don’t have is a cure for Parkinson’s — which is the focus of much of our laboratory work.” Standaert explains that UAB had a very important role in two new treatments for the disease, which were approved at the beginning of the year: a pill called Rytary and an infusion pump system called Duopa. “Both of these are better ways of delivering dopamine therapies, and important parts of the studies were done at UAB,” he said. “More upstream, we are working hard on new approaches to slow the disease progression. One of the exciting new ideas is that the immune system may have an important role, and just this month we have received a major new grant award from the NIH to explore how this could lead to better treatment.” Standaert shares his advice for those who have a loved one battling the disease. “It is important to remember that Parkinson’s disease affects the whole family, and both the patient and caregivers need support,” he said. “We do recommend that patients visit a movement disorder specialist at least twice a year to ensure that the diagnosis is accurate and the treatment is the best possible. Families should take advantage of the many support groups in the state.” On April 23, PAA will host their signature event, Taste for a Cure, at Old Car Heaven. Proceeds will help fund research as doctors search for a cure for the disease. For more or to purchase tickets, visit parkinsonalabama.com. If you would like to help sponsor the event or have questions please contact Miller at maryt@parkinsonalabama.org.

A14 • April 2015

Vestavia Voice

Service above self Sunrise Rotary first responders event to celebrate local heroes By KATIE TURPEN What do you get when you combine a shrimp boil, skydivers, live music and police and fire equipment on display? The answer is a family-friendly event that brings the community together, recognizes local heroes and raises funds to support a worthy cause. The First Responders Celebration serves as the Vestavia Hills Sunrise Rotary Club’s flagship fundraiser and recognizes Vestavia Hills’ police, fire and paramedics. The event has been going on for several years, but this year the club decided to do things a little differently. “It was formerly known as the First Responders Picnic, but this year we are really trying to grow it by opening it up to the public,” said Sunrise Rotary Club member Troy Hendrixson. Tickets for the First Responders Celebration are $10 in advance or $15 the day of the event, which will be held at Mountaintop Community Church on Saturday, April 25. The celebration will raise funds for a new, fully equipped all-terrain vehicle to be donated to the fire and police departments. Funds will also support Vestavia High Hills High’s nationally acclaimed “We the People” competition team and their study of the U.S. Constitution. Guests won’t leave hungry. There will be a Lowcountry shrimp boil with

Vestavia First Responders Celebration Sponsored by the Vestavia Sunrise Rotary Mountaintop Community Church Saturday, April 25, 3-6 p.m. Tickets, $10 in advance, $15, day of event. 6 and under, free. Dinner, games, skydivers, live music and police and ﬁre equipment on display. vestaviasunriserotary.com

The First Responders Celebration serves as the Vestavia Hills Sunrise Rotary Club’s ﬂagship fundraiser and recognize local police, ﬁre and paramedics. Photo by Stasi Bara.

corn on the cob, potatoes and hush puppies in addition to child-friendly food. Games include a clown, inﬂatables, slide, basketball, cornhole and a game truck. Vestavia’s newest police and ﬁre vehicles will be on display. Two skydivers will land in the church parking lot, and live music will be

provided by The Castors. Rafﬂe items will also be available. “This is our signature event,” said Hendrixson. “The police and ﬁre department and the city have been wonderful to us in getting this together. Mountaintop Church has been a great partner as well.”

The Vestavia Hills Sunrise Rotary Club, which has more than 30 members, meets Thursday mornings at the Vestavia Library in the Forest except the third Thursday of the month. The club participates in a number of service projects throughout the year, including maintaining the city’s

southern gateway. Rotary International is an association of more than 33,000 clubs worldwide. For more about the Sunrise Rotary Club or to purchase tickets for the First Responders Celebration, visit vestaviasunriserotary.com.

vestaviavoice.com

April 2015 • A15

Community VHBC to host supper benefitting the Amelia Center By KATIE TURPEN Friends of the Amelia Center will hold a pancake supper on Sunday, April 19, from 5:30-7 p.m. at Vestavia Hills Baptist Church, located at 2600 Vestavia Drive. Local photographer George Elliott and his wife, Jerrie, founded the Amelia Center. In 1995, their daughter Amelia passed away at age 17 when a car carrying her and three other camp counselors was involved in an accident. After their daughter’s passing, Elliott and his wife struggled with their grief for several years but were ultimately determined that good

would prevail. In 1997, they founded the Amelia Center at Children’s Hospital, which offers grief counseling for families dealing with the loss of a child and for young adults grieving the death of a loved one. A support service of Children’s Health System, the center provides individual and group counseling and training and education for professionals dealing with grief situations, including educators. It also sponsors a spring bereavement workshop and an annual remembrance vigil on National Children’s Memorial Day in December. Organizers of the pancake supper are members of Team Sunflower who

participate in the annual Baby Steps Memorial 5K and 1-mile Fun Run supporting the Amelia Center. This year the race will be held Aug. 22 at Tannehill State Park. Tickets for the pancake supper are $7 for adults and $5 for children. Reservations may be made at signupgenuis.com. Tickets will also be sold throughout the community, or individuals may pay at the door. All proceeds from the supper will go to benefit the center’s services. For more information, call George Elliott at 910-5248 or visit ameliacenter.org.

Local photographer George Elliott and his wife Jerrie founded the Amelia Center in 1997 to help families grieving the loss of a loved one. Friends of The Amelia Center will hold a pancake supper in April at Vestavia Hills Baptist Church. Photo by Katie Turpen.

Henze achieves Eagle Scout rank with Troop 69 Erik Henze, a member of Troop 69 at Mount Chapel United Methodist Church in Vestavia Hills and under the leadership of Angelo Della Manna, recently made the rank of Eagle Scout. He was honored for his accomplishment during his Eagle Court of Honor. Henze is the son of David and Diana Henze of Hoover. He joined Troop 69 in 2008 after earning his Arrow of Light award in Cub Scout Pack 69. He has held various leadership positions with Troop 69

Erik Henze. Photo courtesy of Diana Henze.

including senior patrol leader, assistant senior patrol leader and quartermaster. While in scouting, he has attended National Youth Leadership Training and participated in two high-adventure Sea Base outings. He has earned the National Outdoors Leadership Award for Camping and 36 merit badges. For his Eagle Scout project, Henze, along with his fellow troop members and friends, reconstructed and added to the outdoor classroom for Rocky Ridge Elementary in Hoover. They re-enforced and

repaired the damaged deck flooring, reconstructed the deck railings, added steps to the outdoor theatre seating and pressure-washed the concrete tables, benches and sidewalks around the outdoor classroom. Henze is a senior at Spain Park High School where he is a member of the National Honor Society and team captain of the boys’ varsity soccer team. He is also co-captain of the Briarwood Ambassador’s 97 Gold Region III soccer team.

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A16 • April 2015

Vestavia Voice

Hollywood Pools to host events supporting Glenwood

Arts on the Plaza returns

Arts On The Plaza returns this month to Rocky Ridge Plaza Shopping Center with art and food for sale.

Arts on the Plaza returns Friday, April 17 from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Saturday, April 18 from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. at Rocky Ridge Plaza Shopping center. The event features a collection of local artisans. Items for sale include handmade scarves and jewelry by fiber artist Alisha Prevatte, paintings by Gyl Turner and fused glass jewelry and other items by Lisa

Jackson. Other items include kettle corn popped on site by the Naughty but Nice Kettle Corn Co., handmade Sicilian olives by Lisa Jacobson, handmade jams and preserves by Billy Parker, items by Share Norville, Whimsical Reworks, A Root in the Boot and more. For more information, call 978-1451.

Glenwood Autism and Behavioral Health Center serves children, teenagers and adults who have Autism Spectrum Disorder or other significant behavioral health issues. Photo courtesy of Glenwood Autism and Behavioral Health Center.

By KATIE TURPEN April is Autism Awareness Month and Hollywood Pools in Vestavia Hills will be offering several special events in conjunction with Glenwood Autism and Behavioral Health Center. }} Art, Wine & Blooms, Friday, April 10, 6 p.m. to 11 p.m. }} Family Fun Day, Saturday, April 25, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. }} Plant Sale, starts April 10 and ends April 25. Glenwood Autism and Behavioral Health Center serves children, teenagers and adults who have

Autism Spectrum Disorder or other significant behavioral health issues. Glenwood’s credentialed staff members provide diagnostic, therapeutic and educational services to children and adult as well as training to professionals and teachers throughout the state. Glenwood’s 363 acre campus is located at 150 Glenwood Lane. A day program for adults is offered on campus as is an inclusive preschool. Enrichment activities, such as horseback riding and art, are a regular part of Glenwood’s week. For more information about Glenwood, visit glenwood.org. Hollywood Pools & Spas is located at 1441 Montgomery Highway. For more information, visit hollywoodpoolandspas.com.

Author to speak at Samford University Legacy League meeting Join the Samford University Legacy League for their April meeting featuring Karim Shamsi-Basha, a Syrian-born American author and award-winning photographer. More than two decades ago, Karim suffered a life-threatening brain aneurysm. His miraculous recovery after a month-long coma began a long journey from Islam to Christianity. He

has documented his journey in his book Paul and Me. The meeting, which is free and open to the public, will take place at the Samford University President’s home, 1994 Shades Crest Road, on Thursday, April 9. Refreshments will be available at 10 a.m. and the program will begin at 10:30 a.m.

vestaviavoice.com

April 2015 • A17

Weekend garage sale features large selection

Shoppers attend last year’s Bargain Carousel.

Birmingham’s largest garage sale is Saturday, April 25 and Sunday, April 26. The Junior League of Birmingham’s (JLB) Bargain Carousel will be held in the old Princeton-Hoover location at 2467 John Hawkins Parkway (Highway 150). There will be over 100,000 items for sale including adult clothing, appliances, art, books, music, children’s clothing, electronics, furniture, heirloom items, holiday decorations, home décor, infant furniture and accessories, kitchen items, lighting, linens, office equipment and furniture, outdoors and sporting goods, rugs and toys. Proceeds support community projects with the Junior League’s partner agencies. “I love to cook so I am always looking for new kitchen items at Bargain Carousel,” said Ryan Graham of Vestavia Hills. “You can find

everything from brand new pots and pans to new table cloths and gorgeous linens.” The weekend kicks off with a Bargain Bash on Thursday, April 23. For $40 a ticket, VIP admission gets you in the door at 6 p.m. for early bird shopping privileges. General admission (7 p.m.10 p.m.) is $30. This year tickets will be pre-sold on Friday, April 24 from 3 p.m.-7 p.m., and shoppers may purchase up to four tickets at $10 each for the Saturday sale. Bargain Carousel will run Saturday from 8 a.m.-5 p.m. with $10 tickets for 8 a.m.-10 a.m. or $5 tickets from 10 a.m.-5 p.m. On Sunday it will run from 1 p.m.-5 p.m. with free admission and half-price merchandise. For more information, call 879-9861, visit bargaincarousel.net or “like” the event on Facebook.

2015 Decorators’ ShowHouse to feature Vestavia Hills estate The 2015 Decorators’ ShowHouse, benefiting the Alabama Symphony Orchestra, will be open April 18 through May 3. Cheree Carlton and Charlotte Clarkson are Chairman of the 2015 House. This year’s house, The Upton Estate, is located in Vestavia Hills on10 1/2 acres. 18 decorators will participate in the 7,788 square foot home. There will be a DSH Café to enjoy morning snacks and lunches. The Symphony Shop will be open for shopping each day. This year there is the added addition of seminars held by our decorators. It is included with the ShowHouse ticket, but reservations are required to attend.

The following seminars will be held at 1:30 p.m. on the following days. }} April 22 Lynne Coker Painting 101 - A Color Scheme For Your Home }} April 27 Bill Aroosian - Creating An Outdoor Room }} April 29 Perry Humphrey - Displaying Art and Collectibles Parking and Shuttle to the house are located at The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, 2780 Altadena Road, at the intersection of Altadena Road and Cahaba River Road. Tickets are $15 before the house opens and $20 at the door.

This year’s showcase house, The Upton Estate, is located in Vestavia Hills on Altadena Road. 18 decorators will participate in the home, which is more than 7,000 square feet. Photo courtesy of Nan Teninbaum.

Make time for Him Author Donna Evans and her special needs son, James Bruce, help you with their book:

Bible Bits

Timeless Truths for Busy Lives

Let Donna’s son point you to God’s son this Easter Season. Sold at Monogram’s Plus in Vestavia, Briarwood Christian Bookstore, Amazon and on the Ashway Press website: www.givingmeaway.com

A18 • April 2015

C OMMUNITY

M EMBER OF THE YEAR

Vestavia Voice

Kelly C O M M UGarner NITY C AUSE Heroically putting others before OF THE YEARthe unexpected himself during

Winner

By KATIE TURPEN One more step. One more breathe. One more mile. The words sounded inside Kelly Garner’s head as his feet hit pavement during February’s Mercedes Half-Marathon. While a multitude of runners crossed the finish line that rainy Sunday, one man’s victory signified something more. A second chance at life. “I’ve learned all it takes is that first step,” said Kelly, who was recently voted Vestavia Voice’s Community Member of the Year. When notified of his nomination, he said he was simply shocked. It is clear after just a few moments of speaking with him that humility is a central part of his character. “It was a honor for me to even be on the list with the other nominees,” Kelly said. “This is such a gracious community. Everyone here embodies the word hero.” He is currently writing a book about the story of the night that changed his life just over a year ago. On January 28, 2014, a sudden onset of snow turned icy roads into a gridlock across Birmingham. In the days that followed, stories circulated of people stranded at school, work and roadways overnight. For Kelly, a father of two, his story had a near fatal ending. After the storm hit that day, Kelly, known for putting others before himself, was helping stranded motorists near the Wal-Mart Neighborhood Market shopping center on U.S. 31. “I just jumped in and started helping, one car after another,” Garner recalled. Kelly has been a Type 1 diabetic since he was 9 years old. That’s why his oldest sister, Charlotte Garner Carter, was worried when the family received an unusual call from him repeating the same sentence over and over. Kelly did not make it home that evening. His Panorama Drive neighbors formed a search team that eventually spotted him at the bottom of a 40-foot-deep ravine near the Library in the Forest the following morning. With the help of the Vestavia Hills Fire Department, Garner was carried out of the ravine.

Photo by Karim Shamsi-Basha.

“It was a team effort in carefully moving him from that forest of trees, large rocks and hilly terrain,” Carter said. Kelly’s injuries included a broken T8 vertebra, bleeding on the brain, five broken ribs on the left and two on the right, and broken bones in his foot. He was eventually moved to Spain Rehabilitation Center to relearn to walk and fine-tune his motor skills. His doctors described his recovery as miraculous. “A lot of people ask about my moments while I was at the bottom of the ravine,” Kelly said. “All I can say is that I couldn’t have found a better rock to land on. It was a big rock, so not so bad really.”

Kelly was invited to be the surprise guest at the UAB Trauma Symposium in November. Several Vestavia Hills medics were in attendance. Dr. Ginger Justice, an instructor at the department of trauma, burns and surgical critical care at UAB, introduced Kelly to the crowd by recalling January’s events. “What stood out to me was that everyone came together,” said Justice. “There were no frozen hearts in Birmingham that day. But there was one that gave more.” In October, Kelly ran the Susan G. Komen Race for the Cure 5K. In November, he ran the Vulcan Run 10K in downtown Birmingham. February’s Mercedes Half-Marathon marked his biggest achievement to date.

“My goal for these runs was simply to come across the finish line,” Kelly said. Kelly hopes to announce release date for his book soon, tentatively titled The Night That Changed My Life. For now, he is focusing on his recovery and teaching one of his sons to drive. He said he is thankful for his second chance at life and to be a part of the Vestavia Hills community. “The devil pushed me in the pit, but God pulled me out,” Kelly said. “I encourage everyone to live well, laugh often and love much with whatever you do.”

Runner Up Joe Perez Vestavia Hills Rotary Club board member By KATIE TURPEN Through years of volunteering and serving on various local boards and committees, longtime resident Joe Perez has made his mark on the city of Vestavia Hills. Perhaps that is why recently voted as Vestavia Voice’s Community Member of the Year Runner Up. He is a board member of Rotary Club of Vestavia Hills, trustee in Vestavia Hills Chamber of Commerce and a graduate and former board member of Leadership Vestavia Hills. Joe is also an active member of Dawson Family

of Faith. He and his wife, Bonnie, have lived in Vestavia Hills since 1982. They have two sons, Matthew, a 2005 Auburn University gradate, and Michael, a 2010 University of Alabama graduate. Both are VHHS graduates. Joe has also been involved with Vestavia Hills City Schools. He worked with legendary VHHS Football Coach Buddy Anderson for many years and has also been a substitute teachers throughout the schools. Prior to retiring, Joe worked for BellSouth. He is now the owner of Wild Birds Unlimited in Hoover on U.S. 31, a retail

store stocking supplies for feeding and observing birds. He enjoys giving back to the greater community through mission. He volunteers for Brother Bryan Mission in downtown Birmingham. The organization seeks to minister to the economically, emotionally and spiritually impoverished men in the Birmingham area. He said he is proud to represent Vestavia Hills and invest his time in a place he sees as special. “I am humbled and honored to be on the list with such a fine group of people,” Joe said of his nomination.

vestaviavoice.com

April 2015 â&#x20AC;˘ A19

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C OMMUNITY

C AUSE OF THE YEAR

Vestavia Voice

KultureCity Providing services and awareness for families affected by autism

By KATIE TURPEN

Winner

A20 • April 2015

When Vestavia resident Julian Maha’s son Abram was diagnosed with autism at age 2, the future suddenly became uncertain. While able to voice his wants and needs, Abram was unable to carry on a regular conversation. Instead of sitting idle, Maha and his wife, who both work in the medical field, were fueled by a desire to make life better for their son. They realized that a network for families with autism did not currently exist and decided to take action. “I said, ‘Let’s change the culture,’” said Maha. “With the help of social media, it spread like wildfire. “ KultureCity was recently named as Vestavia Voice’s Cause of the Year. Run from Maha’s Vestavia Hills home, the group has now reached hundreds of families across the world and received a 2014 Top-Rated Nonprofit Award. Their goal is to give families the tools they need while also educating the wider community on effects of autism. “There is a fundamental difference between awareness and acceptance,” said Maha. “Awareness always gives you an out. Acceptance does not.” Over the last two years, KultureCity has helped more than 12,900 families, mailed out 3,246 toys, given out 286 iPads, sent out 204 weighted blankets and provided 20 children with therapy scholarships. Project descriptions are listed below. KultureArts The goal of KultureArts is to expose children and their families and expose them to art, music and horse therapy. Toys AUcross America Toys AUcross America was started by KultureCity father Michael Miller and his son Jonathan. The goal is to find each child the perfect toy. TABLET:kulture KultureCity equips children with either iPads or Kindle Fires to foster the development of language and assist in communication.

KultureCity founder Julian Maha is pictured with his son, Joshua. Photo by Karim Shamsi-Basha.

Therapy:KULTURE Through a partnership with Thrive Behavioral Services in Alabama, they ensure children get the help they need. Ourhope:KULTURE In the winter of 2013, Maha heard of an orphanage in Uganda that received no government assistance and was solely supported by an occupational therapist named Jenny Taylor from Birmingham. Maha decided to bring Home of Hope into the KultureCity family in June 2014. Blanket:KULTURE Weighted blankets have long been popular for calming children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). The idea is that the

weight provides gentle, deep pressure that helps calm the child and thus help in the sleep disturbances that are common among those with autism. Each blanket is weight specific and can often cost $75 and above. Partnering with Cyndi Frisch, the owner of A Thread of Magic, KultureCity provides free weighted blankets. Sensory Box For families with a child who has autism, going out to eat can be a traumatic experience because of the sensory overload the child experiences.

hand that contains iPads, noise-canceling headphones, toys and more. Two restaurants currently use the sensory box; one is located in Boston and the other is Post Office Pies in Birmingham. April KultureCity events }} April 4- Atlanta Hawks KultureCity Day }} April 18-WODism for Autism, Over The Mountain Crossfit Vestavia }} April 19-Donohoo Auto Spring Fling }} April 24-Alys Stephens Sensory Friendly Dance Performance

That’s why KultureCity introduced the sensory box, a box restaurants have on

For more, visit kulturecity.org.

Runner Up Help the Hills By KATIE TURPEN

Help the Hills committee members are Shera Grant, Tracy Davis, Julie Ellis, Charlie Shah, Shanta Owens, David Martin and Jennifer Philpot. Not pictured: Dan Pahos, Ryan Ferrell. Photo by Katie Turpen.

Leadership Vestavia Hills is making a sizable impact with its Help the Hills campaign. Readers recently voted the initiative as Vestavia Voice’s Community Cause of the Year Runner Up. The campaign started as a 20112012 LVH class project and has since transitioned into a series of community forums with the goal of fostering open dialogue with parents, educators, and community leaders about drug abuse. “We want to remove judgment

and blame from the conversation,” said Help the Hills board member Julie Ellis. In August and January, Help the Hills hosted town hall meetings at Vestavia Hills United Methodist Church. VHHS graduate Brad Blount shared his story of heroin addiction. Leaders from the board of education, the police department and the Jefferson County Drug Court also spoke. In January, Addiction Prevention Coalition Executive Director Sandor Cheka presented the city of Vestavia Hills with the Community

Impact Award, honoring the city for its efforts in fighting substance abuse. On April 7, Help the Hills will host a session with parents and children at VHUMC. Dr. Stephen Taylor will be the speaker. For the past 19 years, Dr. Taylor has worked as a licensed, board-certified general, child/adolescent and addiction psychiatrist. He is also certified by the American Board of Addiction Medicine as a specialist in addiction medicine. For more about Help the Hills, visit leadershipvestaviahills.com.

vestaviavoice.com

April 2015 â&#x20AC;˘ A21

A22 • April 2015

Vestavia Voice

Swim safety in the Hills Leadership Vestavia Hills launches new community project

fast facts Drowning

The fatal drowning rate of African American children ages 5-14 is almost

three times that of white children in the same age range

Among children ages 1-14, fatal drowning remains the

2nd leading cause of unintentional injury-related death behind motor vehicle crashes

Nearly

80%

of people who die from drowning are male

Most fatal drownings of children 1-4 occur in

Home Swimming pools

Many children who drown in home pools were out of sight for less than

minutes and in the care of one or both parents at the time

Data Source: United States Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and the American Red Cross By KATIE TURPEN Drowning is responsible for more deaths among children ages 1 to 4 than any other cause except birth defects, according to the United States Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. One local group is working to address this issue in Vestavia Hills. This month, Leadership Vestavia Hills (LVH) is launching a special project, Swim Safety in the Hills. The project’s mission is to reduce drowning accidents among local children through parental education and swim safety instruction. Drowning risk factors include lack of swimming ability, inadequate barriers, lack of close supervision and failure to wear life jackets, according to the American

Red Cross. Many children who drown in home pools were out of sight for less than five minutes and in the care of one or both parents at the time of drowning. Children under 1 year most often drown in bathtubs, buckets or toilets. Children ages 1 to 4 years most often drown in home pools. LVH member and parent Brooks Harris said he was surprised to learn the facts. “There are some shocking statistics out there related to drowning deaths that we believe many adults are not aware of,” Harris said. “We wanted to be able to provide citizens of Vestavia Hills with an avenue to learn more about what to do in a drowning emergency and what the statistics were about drowning deaths.” Swim Safety in the Hills will offer a free parental swim safety education class

for parents on April 9 at the Vestavia Hills YMCA. The class will provide child drowning facts and prevention tips. “While they’re at the class they’ll have the opportunity to register their children for a follow-up pool safety class,” Harris said. Registration will be on a first-come, first-serve basis. Children will be able to choose from one of four 30-minute in-thepool classes to be taken over a five-day period with qualified YMCA swim instructors who will teach basic swimming and escape techniques. Leadership Vestavia Hills plans to continue to develop the program and consider additional swim classes in the future. For more about the classes, contact the Vestavia Hills YMCA at 823-0144.

Free parental swim safety education class

Free in-pool swim safety course

April 9, 5:45- 7 p.m. Vestavia Hills YMCA,

April 13-17 Vestavia Hills YMCA

Qualified swim safety instructors will teach parents about swim safety. Child care will be provided. At the end of this classroom instruction, a signup sheet will be available for parents to register their children for the in-the-pool instruction class.

Registrants, on a first-come firstserve basis, will be able to choose from one of four 30 minute in-the-pool classes with qualified YMCA swim instructors who will teach children basic swimming and escape techniques.

vestaviavoice.com

April 2015 • A23

State introduces autism identification cards By SYDNEY CROMWELL Misty Gillispie describes her 14-year-old son, Eli, as “the smartest kid I know.” Eli is a freshman in high school, but his Asperger’s syndrome diagnosis means he sometimes has difficulty with language and communication. For people who don’t understand Asperger’s and other autism spectrum disorders, Eli’s behavior can be misconstrued. “I would never want my son to be mistaken for being rude or aggressive when there is simply a communication barrier,” Gillispie, an Indian Creek Drive resident, said. Bama Hager, the policy and program director at the Autism Society of Alabama, understands Gillispie’s fears because she also has a 14-yearold son with autism. Through the ASA, Hager works to make these worries a little easier for parents like her. The ASA’s most recent successful campaign was the introduction of state-issued identification cards for people with autism. The Alabama Legislature’s Act 2014-344, which governs the use and eligibility of these cards, went into effect on Jan. 1. People with autism spectrum disorders can apply for the cards with the Alabama Department of Public Health. The cards have an explanation of autism’s effects and a place for emergency contact information. Hager said she believes these cards could be crucial for drivers with autism in interacting with police or other first responders. Communication issues and delays in processing language are central to autism, and stressful or fearful situations can exacerbate these problems. Hager said that during a traffic stop, a police officer might interpret the behavior of a person with autism as noncompliant, flustered or even resistant, when in reality the person is

Autism Society of Alabama Executive Director Melanie Jones holds one of the new stateissued autism identification cards. The society also has emergency alert decals to place on vehicles to inform first responders about drivers with autism. Photo courtesy of Autism Society of Alabama.

struggling to handle the situation. “Many interactions with first responders will often occur during events that might provoke frustration, fear and anxiety,” Hager said. “That experience is often heightened for those on the

spectrum. In other words, a teen or adult with autism may function very effectively and independently in the community. When faced with a stressful event, the same teen or adult may have a very difficult time communicating their thoughts

and feelings.” Hager said that for some individuals, these high-stress situations can produce behaviors similar to people under the influence of alcohol or other drugs. She met a man through the ASA who has never had an alcoholic drink, but has had a sobriety test every time he’s pulled over because of his reaction to anxiety. With the introduction of these cards, drivers with autism can keep the cards next to their licenses and hand them both to police if they’re pulled over. This would help officers understand how to interact and be patient with the driver. Gillispie said the card would give her peace of mind if Eli gets his driver’s license in a few years. Simply carrying the card could help people understand him and his 4-year-old brother, who has nonverbal autism. “I hope that law enforcement will also be given training on understanding autism and how to communicate effectively during traffic stops or accidents,” Gillispie said. The creation of these cards was truly a grassroots effort, Hager said. Parents and other advocates in Huntsville and Decatur began encouraging a special note on drivers’ licenses for people with autism. Because of health confidentiality reasons, this idea was changed into the optional identification cards. The ASA and parents across the state got involved in the effort, as did 3rd District Senator Arthur Orr, and the bill was enacted into law during the spring 2014 legislative session. “People all over the state of Alabama are saying ‘Yes, this is something we like,’” Hager said. “That’s a really neat thing to see a law go into effect that obviously meets a need.” To apply for a card, contact the ASA at 9511364 or email Hager at bamah@autism-alabama. org.

Vestavia Voice

A24 • April 2015

Spring fashion fever

Popping patterns

Classy chic

Be bold this spring with these hot pink Raoul shorts ($265) paired with this Alice&Trixie patterned jacket ($365) over a pale blue Amanda Uprichard top ($150). Complete the outﬁt with a pair of nude Helen’s Heart heels ($60) and these sparkling pink earrings ($58). Find the outﬁt at The Clothes Tree.

White J Brand jeans ($45.50), a bold orange Moulinetter Soeurs top ($32.50) and a pair of Lucky Brand sandals ($38.50) create a spunky spring look. Add Kate Spade sunglasses ($68.50), a Coccinelle purse ($45.50) and accent jewelry ($18-24) to complete the look. Get it at Second Hand Rose.

Bright and colorful

Bold and beautiful

Get in the spirit of spring with a bright multicolored ﬂoral top ($29.98). Pair with J Brand white jeans ($49.98) and Prada wedges ($89) for a fresh and clean feel. Get the outﬁt at Collage Designer Consignment.

Stand out this spring with a multi patterned tween maxi dress by Truly Me ($62). Get the outﬁt at Kidz Closet Consignment.

Get these looks Second Hand Rose 4200 Oakview Lane Cahaba Heights Collage Designer Consignment 700 Montgomery Highway, Suite 106 The Clothes Tree 1425 Montgomery Highway, Suite 105 Kidz Closet Consignment 640 Montgomery Highway

vestaviavoice.com

April 2015 • A25

Q & A with

Melinda Mathews Featured artist at Artists Incorporated By KATIE TURPEN Artists Incorporated Art Gallery, located in the “Little Red Barn” on Morgan Drive in Vestavia Hills, displays work from more than 50 local artists. On the first Friday of each month, the public is invited to a Featured Artist reception to enjoy refreshments and meet the artists. This month’s featured artist is Melinda Mathews.

Q A

Tell us a little bit about yourself. I am a full-time practicing attorney. I have been a shareholder in the firm, Sirote & Permutt, for more than 30 years, practicing in the estate planning area. I am a past president of the Birmingham Estate Planning Council and am currently on the board of Breast Cancer Research Foundation of Alabama. I also love to paint.

Q A

Describe what type of art you do. I paint people, (not portraits) using watercolor, acrylics, and oil, just not all at the same time. My people are mostly made up. I rarely use models, but when I do, I may add about 40 pounds or so, and no one would ever recognize them. I start from an idea and a

doodle, alternating pencil with eraser, and then get caught up in the fun of seeing what evolves. I love the process! Sometimes I end up with a small design, which I then paint larger. The end result is almost never like the beginning. I usually paint with a working title, but the title evolves with the painting. Occasionally, I finish a painting in one concentrated weekend. Some paintings have evolved over a decade. One painting that I sold recently took years of layers before I was satisfied. X-rays of that painting would be fun to see. My best art advice came from my daughter, Melanie. At the time, she was an art student at Auburn. She said, “Paint the unexpected.” I was puzzled. And so, having grabbed paper, pencil and paints (always abundant in our house), she described what she meant, painting as she talked. That painting still hangs in our kitchen. That was an “ah-ha” moment, and I will be forever grateful. I have painted regularly since that day.

Q A

Where does your inspiration come from? Artistically speaking, I am fascinated by people, pets, fabrics and patterns. The important things of life center around relationships. I have one painting that I did, just

Melinda Mathews

for fun, of two flowers. All the body language was there! Even my floral painting was about relationships.

Q A

What do you enjoy the most about creating your art? I am constantly surprised. A color. An expression. Integration of primary image and background. There is a huge amount of internal dialogue that goes into a painting. The eternal “what if.” As a lawyer, I am conservative, cautious, and carefully consider all the pros and cons (and help my clients do the same), but painting is very different. Painting is

still about choices, but if I think, “wouldn’t it be fun to try ...” I can do it, and after all, it is just paint and paper (or maybe canvas). As a painter, I am absolutely free. What is the greatest compliment you have ever received about your work? Actually I have two favorites that are related: “Your painting makes me happy,” and “Your painting makes me laugh.” Typically, my paintings have some ambiguity (which I embrace), but also express a love of life. If the viewer can recognize the ambiguity and embrace the joy, I am happy.

Q A

Pediatric

ENT

Associates

From left: Brian Kulbersh, MD; Audie L. Woolley, MD, FACS; Brian J. Wiatrak, MD, FACS, FAAP; J. Scott Hill, MD, FACS, FAAP; and Nicholas Smith, MD

Our five physicians have more than 60 years of combined Pediatric ENT experience with additional fellowship training in Pediatric ENT surgery. We provide assessment, treatment and management for children with conditions such as: o Complex sinus problems o Ear infections (ear tubes) o Hearing loss o Tonsil and adenoid problems o Facial and neck masses o Sinus infections o Airway obstruction and breathing disorders o Cosmetic issues such as prominent ears (otoplasty) and birthmarks of the face and neck

Appointments 205.638.4949

FAX 205.638.4983

Two Convenient Locations CHiLDreN’S ruSSeLL CAMPuS CLiNiC 4, MCWANe BuiLDiNg 1600 7tH AveNue SoutH BirMiNgHAM, AL 35233

CHiLDreN’S SoutH CLiNiC F, 2ND FLoor 1940 eLMer J. BiSSeLL roAD BirMiNgHAM, AL 35243

He alth c ar e a s ama z ing a s th eir po tenti al

A26 • April 2015

Vestavia Voice

PARK

CONTINUED from page A1

ke la

Ac to nR

were satisfied with community recreational centers and 62 percent were satisfied with the number of parks in the city overall. These amenities also topped the list of issues that residents wanted the parks and recreation department to emphasize. “We have some great, great programs, but there’s a community demand for even better,” Downes said. In addition to stated citizen interest, Downes said city leaders have seen an increase in demand for athletic playing fields. There are multiple football, baseball and softball leagues playing in the city, as well as lacrosse and soccer teams competing for space. This demand is expected to increase, as the city is projected to be the home of an additional 1,000 to 1,500 children over the next 10 to 15 years. “It boils down to capacity. We have a robust recreational program and a citizenry that really wants to play ball in many different fashions,” Downes said. These concerns were already in mind for Downes and Mayor Butch Zaragoza when Keith Development Company approached them in December with an idea. The developers are working with the country club’s landowners on a deal to build a neighborhood of single-family homes on part of the club property, and Keith Development is considering donating or transferring the remaining land to the city. “There’s a philosophy that we’re embracing as a city that I refer to as public-private partnerships,” Downes said. “It’s easier to accomplish things with partners than by yourself.” The deal, Downes emphasized, is far from a certainty. However, as it stands now, the city would acquire around 64 acres of land bordering the Cahaba River and Acton Road. There are no design plans yet, but athletic fields would be a definite addition and Zaragoza said walking

459

ab Cah

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Tra il 29

This map shows the part of the Altadena Valley Country Club that the city is looking to turn into a park that can be used for recreational activities.

trails and picnic areas around the club’s pond are likely. Downes said the walking trails could eventually connect to trails at nearby Patchwork Farms. The park’s location on Acton Road, Downes said, will make it very accessible to residents in southern and eastern Vestavia Hills. The city has also been discussing the potential project with the school system to maximize opportunities for students. “I think this is the bright spot that we see coming into Vestavia Hills,” Zaragoza said. There are several steps standing between Vestavia Hills and its new park. The country club is currently located in unincorporated Jefferson County, so the city will have to annex the property and rezone it before moving forward. Downes said he expects the deal with Keith Development to be concluded by late April,

followed by 90 to 120 days of planning. He wants to have a design put together for public viewing over the summer, and construction on park facilities could begin in the fall of this year or early 2016. Based on previous park projects, Downes estimated that the city would spend around $2.5 million on creating the park. The city is also working on projects to improve existing facilities and build small “pocket parks” in a few areas. An entirely new park and athletic facilities, Downes believes, will be the crowning achievement in Vestavia Hills’ parks and recreation efforts. “You have a multimillion-dollar effort by the city of Vestavia Hills to respond to the demands of the community,” Downes said. “The big exclamation point on all of this would be this public-private partnership.”

Creating a park at Altadena Valley comes with a number of concerns, including the environmental impact on the Cahaba River and noise, light and trafﬁc impact on nearby residents. Downes said there will be multiple public hearings through the annexation, zoning and planning process to consider these issues and incorporate solutions into the ﬁnal plan. “This is not a foregone conclusion,” Downes said. “There will be plenty of time for community conversation [and] stakeholder input as this thing moves forward. It is the city’s intent [for] everybody — whether you’re a resident, a baseball player, a lacrosse player, just somebody who loves Vestavia Hills or that particular region — to walk away very proud of what comes from that.”

Offer Expires 04/30/15

vestaviavoice.com

April 2015 • A27

DOGWOOD

CONTINUED from page A1 discussions to set up an annual scholarship for a deserving Belle. Though the types of events that comprise the festival have changed since its inception in 1964, Boston said the annual program has consistently honored its original intent: to promote the city and its beauty. “[At that time,] we celebrated the natural beauty of the large number of dogwood trees so profusely growing in Vestavia Hills,” she said, adding that the board is active in efforts to add more dogwoods to the city’s landscape. “We encourage residents and garden clubs to plant dogwood trees in yards and public places.” She acknowledged that dogwood trees are not easy to maintain but added that it is worth the effort for residents up to the task. “Each part of the city is included in two yard judging competitions a year. Check our website for specific judging dates to be determined by when the plants are in full bloom,” said Boston, noting that the board intends to host a second planting seminar this fall at Andy’s Creekside Nursery on Morgan Drive. The first planting seminar took place in early March. Boston and her Dogwood Luncheon co-chairs Casey O’Dell and Kristin Tunnell also encourage residents to check out one or more of this year’s events. This year’s luncheon takes place Thursday, April 16, from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. in the Dogwood Room and features Rebecca Walden, Vestavia Voice community editor and author of Images of America: Vestavia Hills. The luncheon will be catered by Café Iz. O’Dell added that the board likes to remain open-minded about the possibility of bringing back past events to the festival. Many will remember its affiliation with the Mr. and Miss Dogwood Pageant, a tradition that fell by the wayside due to lack of participation. In years past, the festival also has included a tour of homes. A more likely return, according to O’Dell, would be a Family Fun Day, which the

Art in the Hills will take place at the Vestavia Hills City Center on April 18 and in the past has included musical performances. Photo courtesy of Vestavia Hills Beautification Board.

board is considering for the near future. Following the festival, the board will be working closely with a landscape architect to plan the grounds for the new City Hall, which they hope will include dogwoods. “The Dogwood Festival is always such a wonderful, fun time of year for the community of Vestavia Hills,” said O’Dell. “We do hope everyone will join us for one or more, if not all, of the events this year.” Art in the Hills On Saturday, April 18, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., the second annual Art in the Hills will take place at the Vestavia Hills City Center. Local artisans will showcase their work across a broad array of media, including pottery, clay, ironwork, jewelry, woodwork, tin and more. “Art in the Hills is a great way for us to reach out to a broad base within the community, including families and teens,” said Tunnell. “The event welcomes artisans, volunteers and the public, and it’s a wonderful way to bring our community together via the Vestavia Hills

Red Mountain Theatre Company Presents

BAND Geeks Apr. 16–Apr. 19, 2015 at the Red Mountain Theatre Company Cabaret In the spirit of Glee and High School Musical, comes the hilarious and heartwarming Band Geeks, the triumphant story of high school misfits fighting to save their beloved Marching Beavers.

Purchase tickets at RedMountainTheatre.org or by calling 205-324-2424. THIS SHOW IS RATED PG

RMTC-143 Band Geeks-Starnes.indd 1

3/13/15 2:05 PM

Beautification Board.” Art in the Hills reflects the board’s adaptability and interest in keeping the festival fresh and relevant, while also honoring its heritage. “At the end of the festival each year we reevaluate, and we frequently decide to add or take away events as needed,” O’Dell said. “Art in the Hills was a brainchild of Cindy Bartlett and Ashley Nance from a couple of years ago, and, boy, are we sure glad that they had that idea, brought it to the table, and ran with it. We are so excited this year to be giving cash prizes to art show winners from each elementary grade and a middle school and high school division at Art in the Hills.” Board members Nance and Bartlett conceived the idea of a festival reboot, capitalizing on the gorgeous spring weather and the area’s penchant for cultivating local artisans. “We feel Vestavia Hills is a beautiful city, and the art show is one of the best ways to display the talent and beauty of our city and the season,” said Nance. “With the involvement of many Vestavia school system performance groups providing the daily entertainment, yard decor winners being

acknowledged and talented local artists showing their work, this truly represents many varieties of the arts in our hills.” Nance and Bartlett noted that to date, 25 artists have committed to participate in Art in the Hills. Pieces range in price from $5 to more than $1,000 and represent talent from across the Southeast. “While there are artists and artisans from throughout the region, we have so many talented artists within Vestavia that the majority of our artists are from our own backyard,” Nance said. This group includes a photographer familiar to and beloved by many, George Elliott. Since retiring in 1998, the Vestavia Hills resident has traveled across the country taking photographs of everything from the Grand Canyon to Florida beaches. His photographs are in honor of his daughter Amelia, who passed away in a car accident in 1995. “George has many pictures of the beauty of our community,” said Nance. “[That kind of] Southern charm is well represented with many of our artists.” Registered artists span a variety of media, including mixed media art, hand-carved wooden bowls, handmade jewelry, photography, tin art, pottery and ironwork. Bartlett encourages those interested in participating in the show to email her at cindy.bartlett57@gmail.com, including details about and photographs of their art. Event proceeds this year will be redistributed in the form of prize money for winning artists in the student art show. “Because 2014 was the first year of our event, the startup costs used the majority of our profits, but the positive reactions of producing such a fun and successful event was truly a community benefit in itself,” said Nance. “This year, we are providing substantial prize money to the student art show to encourage budding artists.” Nance said the Art in the Hills environment offers something for everyone. “We have a wonderful array of musical groups providing entertainment, a balloon artist providing balloon animals for the younger art lovers, the company of our beautiful belles, and of course handcrafted treasures to purchase for your home or an amazing gift.”

SECTION B School House B13 Sports B17 Calendar B21

Spring

Home Guide Spring is in bloom, and itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s the perfect time to plant a garden, do some cleaning or start a home renovation. Find tips and tricks from area businesses to jump start any project in our guide.

Spring Home Guide

B2 • April 2015

Vestavia Voice

Special advertising section

Trending with the Times Spring is here. Are you thinking about building or remodeling your home? Take the next step, 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.

The Construx Staff Martha Hunter brings friendly customer service and follow through with your job. From the beginning, she help get your vision onto paper, help with your product selections, and make this 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 – This schedule driven builder has 30 years of building experience in the residential and light commercial field, having built over 300 homes and remodeling projects. Anthony is also a Certified VA builder with expertise in ADA handicap and specifically adaptive housing. “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.” says owner/partner Kent Irwin. Bathroom trends }} Get rid of the tub/shower combo – have a separate walk in shower }} Rimless glass shower walls }} Hand held shower heads for tubs and shower }} Free standing bathtub }} Air baths (vs older style jet tubs). }} Big plank tiles for floors and walls. Kitchen trends “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 trendy and beautiful }} New stainless steel appliances give your kitchen an entire new look. }} Copper countertop enhancements Home Automation Trends }} Key fobs that 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. }} Smart Thermostats – save while at home and control while you

are away. Outdoor Trends }} Front doors and entry ways make a first impression and increase curb appeal }} Wood decks or screened in porch for extra outdoor living space. }} Outdoor fire pits and cooking areas.

The Construx showroom is located in the Rocky Ridge Plaza Shopping Center. Call for an appointment and free estimate. 533-2668, email -info@construxhome.com or visit construxhome.com

Spring for a new look

vestaviavoice.com

Spring Home Guide Special advertising 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 Anne Borland and Moeen Chadury, again offering a full line of

quality fine furniture along with customer bedding, drapery services, accessories, lighting, rug, carpet, wood and tile. 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. For the spring season, Gowens and her staff have noticed several trends making their way into home décor. Most prominently, bold colors that have not been seen in a long time are coming back. Usually mixed with a gray neutral color, many shades of blue and red are adding interesting elements to spaces. Gowens has seen deep lapis, wineberry and marsala, a deep red, making come backs in pieces. Many customers also choose to mix their décor with a touch of gold or silver for more visual interest. Along with bold colors, strong patterns have also been used in interesting ways to give a unique look to spaces. Though Issis & Sons is adding new lines and is stocked with the latest trends, the store always keeps traditional spaces in mind. Issis & Sons will work with customers to achieve the look that works best for them. To learn more about Issis & Sons, visit issisandsons.com.

April 2015 • B3

Spring Home Guide

B4 • April 2015

Vestavia Voice

Special advertising section

Taking a step back in time

After years of working for “the other guy,” Joe Brocato decided it was time to start his own business. In 1989, he found the perfect location – an old house located at 3940 Cypress Drive in Cahaba Heights (once called ‘New Merkel’). He says Cahaba Heights always felt like home away from home to him. He loves the people and the small-town feel and is currently serving a third generation of customers. With only a few minor changes to the appearance of the place in the past 26 years, his customers seem to like the way it feels when they walk in. The building may not be “pretty,” but the staff really knows their stuff. Since the beginning, he has provided quality sales, service and parts for most makes and models of lawn equipment. Since 1989, he has sold the same quality

lines of equipment: Snapper, Echo, Briggs & Stratton and Tecumseh. Besides carrying a full line of parts for these brands, they also stock parts for many other brands. Their success is in the fact that their sole specialty is the sales and service of lawn equipment. They know it well. Joe is MST (Master Service Technician) certified in the state of Alabama for Briggs & Stratton and his technicians are trained with many years of experience. Since many people are busy, they also offer pick up and delivery. If you’ve never been to Cahaba Lawn & Garden, stop by, you’ll feel like you’ve stepped back in time. They are still at the original location behind Walgreens. They are open Monday, Tuesday, Thursday and Friday from 9 a.m. - 5:30 p.m. and Saturday 8:30 a.m.- noon. To learn more, call 967-7091.

MortgageBanc-Fairway offers independent mortgage services

Walter Hunter knows what it takes to be a successful mortgage planner. With 14 years in the mortgage lending industry, he has assisted countless families in financing the home of their dreams. He understands that buying a home can be one of the biggest financial decisions most people will ever make. He is dedicated to helping each client make the best financial decision possible. In times like these, you need someone who is experienced. Hunter’s services include: }} First time homebuyers program }} Low down payment programs }} Conventional loans }} FHA & VA Loans }} Free pre-approvals }} Jumbo loans }} In-house underwriting

MortgageBanc has grown into an exciting, dynamic company. It is their goal to be the lender of choice. Clients or employees are treated like family. The company continues to recruit high quality employees and strive to achieve a high level of employee satisfaction with productivity levels at a maximum and employee turnover at minimum. They facilitate a team environment that works well with customers, management, support personal and each other. Contact Walter for all of your financing needs and let him put his experience to work for you. Apply online at mortgagebancllc.com or call Walter at 986-4220 (office) or 541-1101 (cell) or email him at whunter@mortgagebancllc.com.

Spring Home Guide

vestaviavoice.com

April 2015 • B5

Special advertising section

Shape up for spring Rocky Ridge Hardware has served their community for almost 30 years. It’s one of those rare places that still believes in the “old-fashioned” customer service more typical of days gone by. Yet they still stock everything needed for today’s home care and maintenance. “We focus on serving the home owner, the do-it-yourselfer and resolving any household issues they may be facing,” said owner Dan Moran. “We really do treat our customers like a member of the family. Our service is what sets us apart. Regardless of what you need, chances are we have it without the hassle of navigating a big box store.” Their plumbing and electrical sections have most anything a homeowner will need without having to wade through aisles of contractor and commercial materials. They also repair most household appliances or engines. In fact, Moran said if electricity runs through it they can fix it, which includes gas and electric engine repair. On their Facebook page, Rocky Ridge Hardware features regular tips, ideas and resources specifically for the homeowner, from creative uses for chalk paint to tips for weatherproofing. We asked Moran to share with us ways that homeowners can prepare their home for the colder months.

Spring Checklist Rake leaves and other debris out from around shrubs and plants. It’s a good time to put down a weed preventer around shrubs and in garden beds. Build up the grade around the foundation if anything has been washed away during the winter thaw. Sloping the grade away from the foundation can help prevent basement leaks. Clean out gutters of leaves and debris to ensure good water flow during spring and summer rains. A gutter wand that attaches to your hose allows you to clean gutters safely

from the ground without climbing up a ladder. Also add downspout extensions to direct water from the gutter away from the foundation. Remove and wash screens. It’s also the best time of year to repair screens. Fix them before you need them in the summer. The last thing you want on a hot summer night is a screen that won’t keep the mosquitoes out. For washing the exterior windows homeowners can use Windex products designed to clean outdoor windows, or they can use a solution of water and dish soap. Use one tablespoon

of soap per gallon of water. (Dawn tends to streak less than other brands.) Apply the solution with a long-handled sponge and then squeeze it off. It’s also easy to clean exterior siding. Use a siding cleaner that attaches to your garden hose. Spray the side of the house and let it soak for a little while, gently scrub and then rinse with the hose. Inside, spring is a great time of year to paint. It’s cool with low humidity and you can open the windows to get fresh air in the house.

Lawn care Rake out and re-seed dead spots. (Do not use fertilizer on new seed unless it is a labeled as a Starter Fertilizer.) Apply a fertilizer with crabgrass preventer to non-seeded areas. For more tips or information, call them at 979-5444 or visit 3354 Morgan Drive, next to Western Supermarket. You can also find them on Facebook at www.facebook.com/RRHardware.

Spring Home Guide

B6 • April 2015

Vestavia Voice

Special advertising section

Building quality homes Taylor Burton Company stands by a philosophy to build quality homes, renovations and additions that are designed to meet the demands of today’s markets and those of the foreseeable future. For the last four generations, the Burton family has been building a reputation for quality and excellence in home construction and remodeling in the Birmingham and Over-TheMountain areas. Their individual artistry is what sets them apart from the rest. “We help create what the customer describes,” Owner Taylor Burton said. “We understand the importance of family needs and function and let customers enjoy creativity.” The arrival of spring brings the busiest and the best time for remodeling. Customers are often looking for something fresh and new. One of the most popular redesign requests currently is for kitchen space. Customers want spaces that will accommodate their growing family needs. Though some families are not necessarily growing in size, they still need changes as a family gets older. The living room is another popular common for remodeling to create an appropriate space for families. “It’s important to create a usable

space in a house,” Burton said. In the spring and summer months, families are looking to spend more time outdoors. Taylor Burton Company frequently receives requests for outdoor projects and focuses on creating a usable space according to what the customer envisions. This season, Taylor Burton Company has noticed a trend of reclaimed wood. The company has a shipment of reclaimed wood in stock that will make beautiful flooring or ceiling beams. It could also be used to create a beautiful outdoor space. If customers are thinking about building or remodeling this season, Burton recommends checking references and getting to know builders personally before deciding. “Pick your builder like you’re going to be living with him for 20 years because you are,” Burton said. “All of your memories will be made in what you create together.” After many years in the business, Burton knows that above everything else, customers want a personalized space. Customers want their home, kitchen, bath, outdoor spaces and more to be unique and not a copy of what their neighbors or other family members have. Taylor Burton, Blake Pittman and

Cris Speegle can not only update your home, but they can also make the process enjoyable. “At Taylor Burton Company, that is what we pride ourselves in,” Burton said. “Giving each customer out eye to detail and creating a unique and personalized space that they will be proud of.” Taylor Burton Company is dedicated to being the most responsive and service-oriented home remodeler in this market. Through detailed planning, professional project management and outstanding service to clients, the company is able to accomplish just that. Taylor Burton is known as the home of quality and excellence and it is also its pledge to customers and their homes. The company has earned membership into the Master Builder and Master Remodeler programs. Companies that hold this title must have a reputation of providing exceptional quality and service which involves satisfied customers, a reputable history, a state license, worker compensation, liability insurance, professionalism, offering alternative dispute resolutions, providing a warranty agreement and participating in continuing education. To learn more, visit taylorburton. com or call 822-7936.

Custom Home Builders and Remodelers Taylor Burton, Blake Pittman, and Chris Speegle pride themselves on being “builders of homes, dreams and relationships.”

TAYLOR BURTON COMPANY, INC.

822-7936 www.taylorburton.com

Since 1986

vestaviavoice.com

Spring Home Guide

April 2015 • B7

Special advertising section

Keeping your backyard beautiful and your home pest free Spring is here, which means it’s time to step outside and enjoy your backyard oasis. Conveniently located on U.S. 31 in Vestavia Hills, Hollywood Pools and American Pest Control are proud to help you keep your outdoor living space beautiful. Hollywood Pools was founded in 1986. Having been in the business for almost 30 years, they know how enjoyable spending time outdoors can be. Outdoor living spaces offer places to gather with friends and family, and a swimming pool is a great way to enhance time spent outdoors while also adding value to your property. Hollywood’s construction services include fiberglass shell and gunite pool installation, outdoor fire pit and fountain design and installation, in-ground spa installation, aboveground pools and decks. Additionally, they know a safe, clean pool requires regular maintenance, including cleaning and the addition of chemicals to maintain proper pH levels and inhibit the growth of bacteria and algae. Their experienced, dependable technicians offer regularly scheduled maintenance and cleaning to residents and facilities in Vestavia Hills, Birmingham, Mountain Brook, Homewood and Hoover. They also specialize in pool renovations, including replastering, replacing pool tile, and coping and installing new vinyl liners. Founded in 1945, American Pest Control has been providing dependable resident and commercial pest control for 70 years. Whether you’re buying a new home or need preventive maintenance for an existing structure, they specialize in termite control and exterminations for common pests and rodents. Their professional exterminators are knowledgeable of the life cycle and behavior of these insects and pests and know how to identify signs of infestation.

If bugs or rodents are pestering you, call American Pest Control. Their specially qualified professionals know how to eliminate all types of pest problems. They can protect your home or business from future infestation, as well as offer tips for prevention. Tips for eliminating mosquitoes from your home include emptying water from flowerpots, pet dishes, bird baths, swimming pool covers, buckets, barrels and cans. Also, clear out any clogged rain gutters, remove discarded tires and other items that collect water, plug tree holes and turn over large items such as canoes, wheelbarrows and kiddie pools. Be sure to fix leaky

outdoor faucets and make sure lids on trashcans are secure. In April, Hollywood Pools will be honoring Autism Awareness Month with 10 percent off all items throughout the month as well as several events with Glenwood Autism and Behavioral Health Center. }} Art, Wine & Blooms is Friday, April 10, 6 p.m. to 11 p.m. and costs $10 per couple. The event will include live music, plants, wine, hors d’ oeuvres and a silent auction. }} Family Fun Day is Saturday, April 25, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. It will feature free food, drinks,

ice cream, inflatables and face painting. }} The Plant Sale starts April 10 and ends April 25. All proceeds benefit the programs and services of Glenwood Autism & Behavioral Health Center. Hollywood Pools and American Pest Control value customer relationships. Stop by today and let them take care of all your outdoor living space needs this spring. For more about Hollywood Pools, visit hollywoodpoolandspas.com or call 979-7727. For more about American Pest Control, visit americantermite.com or call 251-8813.

Spring Home Guide

B8 • April 2015

Vestavia Voice

Special advertising section

Making your vision come true

Dianne Baker-Clelland and Katie Baker Bolton are a mother daughter duo with a different perspective on lamps. They look at things with a critical and very creative eye. Customers are regularly bringing in unusual and sentimental pieces for them to master into works of lamp art. With Dianne and Katie’s combined experience and vision, your lamp will be paired with a beautiful shade and finial. They make sure the even smallest details are covered. Baker ’s has the best selection of lamp shades in Birmingham. If they don’t have the shade you need, they can most likely get it for you, since they work with the oldest and most creative shade manufacturers in the USA. If you need a lampshade, please bring in your lamp. If not, they will be quick

to tell you, “Buying a lamp shade without your lamp base is like buying a hat without your head.” Like the shade selection, they have some very unique and elegant lamp finials. In addition to lamps and beautiful bed linens, the store is stocked with a wide selection of candles and reed diffusers and great gifts. As designers, Dianne and Katie have carefully created the entire package by pairing their two stores, Baker Lamps & Linens and dwellings, which specializes in unique furniture and accessories. They would love for you to come in. It won’t be long before you, too, will be one of their cherished, long-time, very loyal customers. For more call 981-3330 or visit bakerlampsandlinens.com.

Handy home tips from Andy

In the spring, warm weather inspires people to freshen up and make changes in their home. Because we cannot all be handy like Adam Bidner and his Andy OnCall staff, Bidner offered some advice as the seasons shift into spring. How do you know when to update your home’s exterior paint? One of the first signs that a home needs to be repainted is the paint beginning to peel or crack. This is an invitation for moisture to penetrate your wood framing and foundation. Do you have any tips on maintaining an outdoor deck? Maintaining a deck should be done annually. Give your deck an annual inspection. Check for nails popping out and replace them with treated deck screws, and check for any wood-related issues. Make sure you pressure wash your deck every year and stain and/or

seal it every two years. What are some tips on working with ceramic tile? Make sure your sub-floor is level. Add a self-leveling compound if necessary. For cutting tile, use a wet saw with the correct blade. The space between tiles depends on what type of trowel to use. Grout it diagonally instead of straight to make sure it covers cracks evenly. Add tile/grout sealant if applicable. What are the perks of having a handyman help? We provide peace of mind. Everyone’s schedule is hectic, and we’re here to help lighten your workload. Our craftsmen have at least 10 years of experience and are qualified to tackle your honey-do list. To learn more about Andy OnCall, visit andyoncallbirmingham.com or call 403-0600.

vestaviavoice.com

Spring Home Guide Special advertising section

Your one-stop shop for home décor

At Home Furnishings, located on 18th Street in Homewood, carries everything from candles, rugs and tableware to furniture such as beds and sofas. Over the past 23 years, owner Babbie Styslinger, who also owns the nearby Three Sheets linen shop, has taken the store from a simple futon retailer to a specialty home goods store that offers items from around the country and around the world. Every year Styslinger travels around the U.S. to Atlanta, Dallas, New York and High Point, N.C., for design markets to find the latest trends. They also have ventured as far as India and China to personally select the best products to bring back to Birmingham. Store Manager Paige Rouss said that in her more than 15 years with the store, she has seen the trends progress in such a way that she wouldn’t even recognize the store from years past. One reason for this drastic change is the ever-evolving inventory. Right now she said linen sofas and raw wood furniture is trending, along with gold accents in tables, lamps and accessories. Around the store, some of Rouss’ favorite items are At Home’s abstract artwork, geodes and crystals on display and the beautiful vases. “Some people might not be aware that we receive new merchandise every single day,” Rouss said. This factor alone allows the store to appeal to a wide variety of client tastes and styles. “I think our favorite part of the business is the

hunt,” Rouss said. “What’s new? What’s trending? What’s exciting?” Rouss also noted how customers don’t necessarily have to buy all new furniture to give a room a new look. “Throw pillows and throws are a great way to incorporate a pop of color for little cost,” she said. “Also new artwork is a great way to change the feel of a room.” Not an inch of space goes unused when it comes to displaying goods at At Home — from light fixtures hanging from the ceiling to the curtains and artwork donning the lofty walls. At the same time, the store feels like a cozy home ripe for a well-set dinner or a nap on the plush couch. In recent years, more and more clients are also turning to At Home Furnishings’ extensive inventory as a source for wedding registries. Others who come into the store in search of that perfect piece of furniture are often drawn in by the wide assortment of smaller items, such table toppers and decorative accents. An additional unexpected find in this shop is the selection of jewelry and handbags, which have grown in popularity as the store has grown. “Our plan for the future is simple — to be the best we can be — to strive to continue to please our customers and be a valuable contributor to the community,” Rouss said. At Home Furnishings is located at 2921 18th Street South in Downtown Homewood. For more information call 879-3510 or visit athome-furnishings.com.

April 2015 • B9

Spring Home Guide

B10 • April 2015

Vestavia Voice

Special advertising section

Find what to plant this spring

The perfect time for chimney repairs

Spring is bursting forth at Classic Gardens & Landscape. Serving greater Birmingham for over 25 years, Classic Gardens has in fresh shipments of blueberries, fruiting trees, early planting vegetables like broccoli and cauliflower, and even a few early bedding plants. After a long cold torturous winter I’m sure we are all happy to feel spring in the air. They have so many plants to choose from that your hardest decisions will be which ones to take home. Still, their friendly and knowledgeable staff can help you decide what to plant. Classic Gardens has plants for sun and plants for shade. Some of their favorite plants require very little care yet give an abundance of color and provide for wildlife like the butterfly bush. Blueberries are a favorite to plant because they are so easy to grow and will

Why is it smart to have your chimney checked/serviced come spring? If the chimney is checked/cleaned/repaired at the close of season: }} The soot is cleaned out, reducing the acrid smell that lingers throughout the humid summer. }} The fireplace will be ready for the first cold spell with no waiting for an appointment. }} If repairs are needed, spring/summer time are the best time to do masonry and chimney repairs as opposed to cold weather and they can be done without the worrying about the impending cold weather needs of the fireplace. “Time is critical to everyone,” Phillip Batts said. “Do what is necessary when it can be conveniently and with low stress. How unnerving is it when James Spann tells us it

make a crop the very first year. Are you familiar with their tomato program? Their staff can tell you how to grow 300 pounds of tomatoes in a container. The ease of growing in a container means anyone can do it and can have so many tomatoes that you have to give some away. The biggest secret to growing pretty bedding plants is to mix in Fertilome potting soil. Classic Gardens recommends mixing Fertilome Start-N-Gro fertilizer into the soil. Come in and they will show you how to have the prettiest yard on the block. Need a beautiful lawn? Nobody does it better than Classic Gardens. They can treat your lawn for you or tell you how to do it yourself. For more information on Classic Gardens, visit classicgardens.com.

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We’ve got you covered! (205) 854-8001 • classicgardens.com

is going to be cold. You call and find that the next appointment is so far off that it makes using your fireplace not so attractive, or to finally get an appointment to find something is structurally wrong and you can’t use it until repairs need to be done next spring?” Tell us a little bit about Batts’ Chimney We are a small business that will only send out certified technicians. We refuse to send out “flue-jockeys” that only clean and have no knowledge of safety inspection/ remediation. We know our customers want their service when they want it but we cannot compromise prudent practices. 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.

vestaviavoice.com

April 2015 • B11

Remembering

Paul

Local family honors one of their own with annual tournament

In honor of Paul Meyers, who succumbed to sudden cardiac arrest at 33 years of age, his family and friends will host the 3rd Annual Paul Meyers Memorial Golf Tournament. Photo courtesy of Shea Wright.

By REBECCA WALDEN On the dusty baseball mound of one of the city’s recreational fields, three young Red Sox became fast friends. The friendship carried those young boys, Michael Wade, Jeff Gentry, and Paul Meyers, through their high school years and beyond. Three years after the tragic loss of Vestavia native Meyers, who died in March 2012 after suffering from sudden cardiac arrest at the age of 33, Wade, Gentry and others are working to carry forward the ideals they most admired about the friend taken from them far too soon. “I was in my front yard planting flowers with my daughter when the phone rang,” said Wade, describing the morning he and Meyers’ mutual best friend, Matthew Michael, called with the news. “I saw on the caller ID that it was Matt and I immediately felt uneasy, as he does not typically call me that early in the morning.” Not long before, Wade and Meyers had gotten together for one of their favorite traditions – Mullet Toss weekend at the Flora-Bama. “I was in kind of a daze after that,” he said. Fast forward one year later when Meyers’ sisters approached Wade with the idea of a golf tournament in Meyer’s honor, and he was all in. “I love Paul and I love Paul’s mother and sisters,” he said. “It was rare that I would hang out with Paul without Julia, Margie, and Laura Ann. They were kind of a package deal. When Paul’s sisters asked me to be involved [in the tournament], it was a no brainer.” Another lifelong friend of Meyers, David Dutton, is an enthusiastic supporter of the event, which he said serves as a fitting tribute for Meyers’ legacy, and is also befitting of the Meyers family. “Paul’s passing was no doubt the most difficult time for the Meyers,” said Dutton, who first met [Paul] Meyers in a local Cub Scout troop. “The circumstances could have destroyed them, but instead, they celebrate his life every day and carry his legacy forward

3rd Annual Paul Meyers Memorial Golf Tournament Saturday, April 11 Highland Golf Course Tickets are $150 per person for golfers, and $40 per person for non-golfers. All tickets include a catered supper, alcoholic beverages, live music and an event t-shirt. Golfer tickets include a cart and 18 holes of tournament play.

with acts of kindness and gifts of love.” In that spirit, the Meyers family, as it has done every year since the inaugural tournament in 2013, will donate proceeds from the event to the Paul Meyers Foundation. The nonprofit organization focuses on three priorities in Meyer’s honor, the first two of which were causes of particular importance to Meyers in his work as a public defender: }} To provide medical treatment to severely underprivileged people; }} To provide safety and rehabilitation to victims of human trafficking, and; }} To educate the general public on the importance of early and continual screening for heart disease Of the tournament itself, Dutton dubbed the affair a golfing event like no other, for golfers and non-golfers alike. “There is literally something fun for everyone of all ages and backgrounds,” he said. “The people involved in this tournament are family to me. I look forward to this day every year.” This year’s event, will take place on Saturday, April 11 at Highland Golf Course. For more information, please visit: paulmeyersfoundation.com.

B12 • April 2015

Vestavia Voice

PALS presents Casino Royale By REBECCA WALDEN In the name of fundraising, all bets are on — especially each year at Casino Royale, the annual Library in the Forest Children’s Department fundraiser sponsored by PALS, a group of parents that support the department through fundraising and volunteering. And why not? When the price of admission earns guests an evening filled with hors d’oeuvres and spirits, not to mention a thousand dollars in play money and a wide array of Vegasstyle tables to spend it on, what’s to lose? The event itself has proven to be a clear winner, last year generating more than $18,000. According to PALS treasurer Mindy Reed, $15,434 of that was allocated back to the Children’s Department to support programming and materials with over $2,000 spent to bring two well-known authors to the library — Willy Claflin and Eric Litwin, author of the Pete the Cat series. PALS also supports the library’s summer reading program, which they provided $13,434 in 2014. “PALS also paid for new toys in the preschool play area and updated games and activities in the school-age game area,” said Children’s Department Head April Moon. The work of the Children’s Department is an area many Vestavia families are only too happy to support. “The mission of PALS is important to me because I strive to inspire a love for reading in my own children,” said Kim Blackenburg, 2015 Casino Royale co-chair. “The children’s

2015 Casino Royale, sponsored by PALS Presenting Sponsor, David Dutton, Associate Broker, ERA King Real Estate Vestavia Hills Library in the Forest Saturday, April 25 7-10 p.m. For more info and/or to purchase tickets, visit librarypals.org (tickets are $40 in advance; $50 at the door).

2015 Casino Royale Committee Chair: Virginia Hornbuckle Co-Chairs: Kim Blackenburg, Stephanie Smith, Celia Grammas Auction Chairs: Brandi Vickers, Cori Prier and Brandi Schreiner PALS Board: Anna McClendon (Chair), Margaret Powell (Administration), Mindy Reed (Treasurer), Ashley Groves (Fundraising), June Clark (Marketing)

Casino Royale is the annual Library in the Forest Children’s Department fundraiser sponsored by PALS. Photos courtesy of Taneisha Young Tucker.

department here provides an environment where they can learn, sing, play and explore the world of knowledge and imagination found only in books. PALS provides the means with which the library can expand their existing programs and create new ones. It is rewarding to be a part of something that has such a positive impact on my family.” Casino Royale committee chair Virginia Hornbuckle concurred. “The children’s department of

the library is phenomenal, and their programs involve children and their families, encouraging them to enjoy the library and love reading,” she said. “Supporting the library while having a great time with fellow community members and friends is [a great] reason to attend.” Hornbuckle and fellow committee members are preparing for a larger crowd this year with additional casino tables, another bar service location and a larger serving staff. PALS marketing

chair June Clark said The Ridge Eat & Drink will cater mainstream fare, including pork sliders, chicken and vegetable kabobs, and desserts. Beverages will be available courtesy of International Wines & Craft Beer. Clark said the committee is also planning swag bags for guests and has arranged to handle auction item checkout throughout the evening, thus avoiding long lines at the end of the party. Those with play cash in hand at the evening’s end will also have the

chance to turn in the play money for prize drawings. For the fourth consecutive year, Goodfellas Gaming will provide the gaming tables, including blackjack, poker, roulette and craps, operated by professional dealers. Local guitarist and singer Rockstar will provide musical accompaniment. “There’s a little something for everyone,” Clark said. “It’s the one fundraiser my husband can’t wait to attend every year.”

POWER TO

CONSERVE Charles Yeager Manager and Education Director, Turkey Creek Nature Preserve

Safe, affordable, reliable electricity is one form of power we provide, but not the only one. For Turkey Creek Wildlife Preserve, it’s helping preserve our state’s natural wonders. With a little help from Alabama Power to create an efﬁcient home for Charles Yeager and education center for the state, Turkey Creek Nature Preserve is proving that preservation keeps wonder alive. That’s power to preserve. That’s Power to Alabama.

Watch the Turkey Creek story at AlabamaPowerRealTalk.com.

POWI-3873 P2Conserve 10x7.5.indd 1

2/17/15 5:39 PM

vestaviavoice.com

April 2015 • B13

School House Dr. Tyler Burgess to become VHHS principal By KATIE TURPEN Effective May 26, Pizitz Middle School Principal Tyler Burgess will become the new principal of Vestavia Hills High School. Superintendent Sheila Phillips made the announcement during a March 2 Board of Education Meeting.

“We are very pleased to have him join our staff at the high school, “ Phillips said. “We hope the transition will go as smoothly as possible for both schools.” Burgess is a 1997 graduate of Hoover High School. His wife, Mandy, has worked in Vestavia Hills City Schools for the past 15 years, where she has served as a

teacher and coach. The couple lives in Vestavia Hills along with their children, who attend Vestavia Hills Elementary West. He served in various faculty capacities within Homewood City Schools for the past 13 years before becoming principal of Pizitz Middle School in June 2014. During the meeting, the Board commended VHHS Interim

Principal Tim Loveless for his time as VHHS principal. Phillips said the position for the next Pizitz Middle School principal will be posted Tuesday, March 3. In May, Dr. Tyler Burgess will become the ninth principal of Vestavia Hills High School. Photo courtesy of Whit McGhee.

Chromebooks in VHCS

VHEC students complete literature circle

With funding from Vestavia Hills City Schools Foundation, local schools are now are given opportunities to put Chromebooks in more students’ hands. These computers provide the following: }} Affordable to purchase and sustainable }} Students immediately log in to their school accounts when turning on Chromebooks }} Chromebooks have apps that are deployed immediately and are accessible after logging in. These apps are managed by a web-based management console. }} Students have quick access to websites and internet which impacts the classroom. This allows students to have real time collaboration and share their work with the world on

Donna Moellinger’s language arts enrichment class just completed a literature circle, on the book The Thief Lord by Cornelia Funke. The group worked together on various jobs such as discussion director, literary luminary, illustrator, and more. They also created and designed board games that relate to the book. Submitted by Renee Lamar

the web. }} VHCS students use Apps for Education }} All students have immediate access to everything stored in their Google account regardless of which device they have used. }} Size of device is easy for all ages to handle (lightweight & durable). “We are excited to have this as our educational world continues to move toward a digital environment,” said VHEW teacher Jan Garfinkle. “Eventually we would love to see a 1:1 device opportunity for all our students in Vestavia. If we were to move towards a 1:1 device, even at home, these devices would follow the same policies, restrictions, and internet filters even as if they were at school.”

B14 • April 2015

Vestavia Voice

Beyond themselves VHHS Relay for Life organizers work to top a quarter million in donations By REBECCA WALDEN For VHHS senior John David Walker, this year’s Relay for Life holds special meaning. His mother, Lindy Walker, a community partner for Youth Leadership Vestavia Hills and a longtime human resources director of the American Cancer Society’s local chapter, was diagnosed with breast cancer in 2013. Since then, John David has seen his mother endure four surgeries and 36 radiation treatments. He will be co-chairing the Vestavia Relay this month. “John David was already involved in Relay for Life before my diagnosis, but obviously this event became very personal to him,” Lindy said. “This year’s event is personal for our family.”

Of the many good works championed by VHHS students, few can outpace the school’s annual Relay for Life campaign, now in its 14th year at the high school. In 2014, Vestavia’s Relay for Life campaign earned the distinction of being the second-largest fundraising team out of all participating Relay for Life high schools nationwide. That record reflected $240,000 of fundraising, an amount that VHHS math teacher and Relay for Life faculty sponsor Claire Rhyne said they hope to exceed by at least another $10,000 this year. Vestavia’s 2015 Relay for Life takes place at the high school on Saturday, April 18, from 2 p.m. to midnight. The community event will include a family zone complete with inflatables and face painting from 2 to 5 p.m. and also will

include tents (one per relay team), each offering their own game or activity in exchange for a small donation. Musical entertainment will also be on hand, courtesy of local bands and singing groups. Given the enthusiastic support of Youth Leadership Vestavia Hills, which organizes almost every aspect of the event, their stated $250,000 goal appears well within reach. Rhyne attributes the yearover-year participation rate with Vestavia’s Relay for Life to the fact that cancer connects everyone. “There is not a single student at the high school that can say that they have not been affected by cancer,” she said. “This one attribute brings all of the student body together to rally and raise money each year. [It’s become] one of the

Brooke Westhoven and John David Walker, this year’s Relay for Life chairpersons, displaying the 2014 award for second best event in the nation. Photos courtesy of Lindy Walker.

vestaviavoice.com

April 2015 • B15

Vestavia Hills Relay for Life Where: Vestavia High School When: April 18, 2015, 2 p.m. - midnight Why: Help Youth Leadership Vestavia Hills raise $250,000 in 2015! For more, email vhhsrelayforlife@ gmail.com or visit relayforlife.org/ vestaviaal

Youth Leadership Vestavia Hills students show off their fundraising total from 2014. This year, the group is working to top that record by raising a total of $250,000.

most looked forward to events at the high school.” Whether residents opt to donate or participate by forming a relay team of their own, Walker emphasized the local impact of how these donations are used. “ACS currently funds over 9 million dollars in cancer research here in Birmingham,” she said, adding that 72 percent of money raised goes directly to cancer research, patient services, prevention education and related care. According to Rhyne, ACS fundraising dollars spent in Alabama in 2014

included: }} 663 visits made to breast cancer patients by Reach to Recovery volunteers; }} 32,890 trips taking cancer patients to treatment through Road to Recovery volunteers and other programs }} 8,626 calls answered by cancer information specialists via a 24 hour information line; }} 27,238 people received free or reduced-rate accommodations through ACS lodging program; }} 2,338 wigs and gift items (such as

turbans and prostheses), provided to cancer patients. For those who missed the Purple People Run, a Relay for Life fundraiser organized by Leadership Vestavia Hills that took place March 7, Rhyne said she welcomes the support and participation of adult residents during the April event. Interested donors can purchase luminary bags ($5 each) or sky lanterns ($25 each), or serve as event sponsors at $500 or more per sponsorship.

“These can be in honor or in memory of someone who has had or is battling cancer,” said Rhyne, adding that the luminaries and lanterns punctuate what has become a beloved tradition following the survivor dinner. For Walker, this luminary ceremony and sky lantern release has become a favorite event highlight. “Luminary bags filled with lit candles are lined in the bleachers to spell the word ‘HOPE’ on one side of the stadium, and on the other side, the bags spell the word ‘CURE,’” she said.

Against that backdrop, including a luminary-lined track, students congregate at the center of the field while one student shares a story of how they’ve been impacted by cancer. “The ceremony is very moving as everyone pauses and remembers those who have lost their fight with cancer,” Rhyne said. “Last year, luminary paper lanterns were released up into the night sky in memory of those lost. It was beautiful.” Referencing the student camaraderie that comes with working together for a common purpose, Walker said this event is one that truly makes a difference. “It promotes school spirit and empowers the students to look beyond themselves to accomplish something bigger,” she said. “I think students are motivated to help fight cancer, but more than that, they enjoy working together and accomplishing a worthwhile purpose. I can’t describe the feeling last year as they announced the final number that had been raised. It was incredible. Pure joy.”

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B16 • April 2015

Vestavia Voice

VHCSF awards 2014-15 grants including one for community garden By KATIE TURPEN The board of directors of the Vestavia Hills City Schools Foundation has awarded 13 grants totaling $61,000 to the eight schools in the Vestavia Hills School System and to the Board of Education. The Foundation currently has a grant-making endowment of more than $2.2 million. Since providing its first grants in 1999, the Foundation has awarded $728,000 to Vestavia Hills City Schools and the Board of Education. Grants awarded this year will provide schools with curriculum enhancements for reading, math and science; technology-related equipment; and professional development for teachers. In addition, the Foundation’s $28,000

grants to the Board of Education will provide training opportunities for every teacher in the district to further integrate technology in classroom. The Foundation awarded Pizitz Middle School $1500 for a community garden. They will be creating an environmental club of sixth through eighth graders that will be responsible for the garden as well as a recycling program. Teachers Phil Vander Camp and Kelly Sorrell will lead the group. They will begin with phase 1, the Pirate’s Cove, which is an interior courtyard. They will build raised beds, allowing access for special needs students as well as other students. They will also have vertical gardens along the walls and a rain barrel, composter, and possibly a

The Vestavia Hills City Schools Foundation recently awarded Pizitz Middle School $1500 for a community garden.

worm farm. “Students will plant and grow various vegetables, herbs and flowers,” Sorrell said. “We plan to share our harvest with the entire school, either through the lunchroom or a stand.” With continued funding, they hope to build beds outside the school gates for community groups to use. Sorrell said they are trying to arrange for the author of Farm To School to come speak to the community in order to build support and interest. They will also incorporate recycling and composting into the project.

“Our goals are to increase student awareness of where food comes from, the satisfaction many find in gardening, and to improve student food choices in favor of healthy foods,” Sorrell said. “So many math, science, and history skills are utilized in gardening and recycling. Keeping a journal of our success and failures will hopefully increase writing skills, as well as researching issues that always arise.” For a complete list of the grants awarded this year, visit vestaviafoundation.org.

VHECH Hosts second annual CAN-uary food drive

Pizitz Robotics Team headed to world championships

VHECH recently collected 896 cans during the second annual CAN-uary food drive. Students gave back to the community by replenishing local food banks after the holidays. The grade collecting the most cans was kindergarten with 237 canned food items. Photo courtesy of Lauren Tucker.

The Robotics Team at Pizitz Middle School is headed to the world championships and is asking for help from the community to get there. The team, under the direction of coach Bill McInnish, won a design award for one of its five competition robots on March 7 at the state championships at Jacksonville State University. The team placed 12th overall in the competition, which pitted Pizitz against both middle and high school teams from Alabama.

The design award gave the team an automatic berth into the world championship meet, April 15-18 in Louisville, Kentucky, McInnish said. Now, they’ll need to raise five thousand dollars in less than one month to ensure that the team can make it there. The team will be taking “Robot A,” a forklift-shaped robot that can build tall towers and stack objects. Students have been designing the robot since the school year began in August and

have rebuilt and upgraded it several times, McInnish said. He estimated that only three robots of this type existed in the state. “We’ve been to seven competitions, and after each one they redesign it and go through the engineering process to make it better,” McInnish said. Interested donors should call the school at 402-5354 for information on how to contribute to the team’s trip. -Submitted by Whitt McGhee

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April 2015 • B17

Sports Three VHHS seniors commit to Birmingham-Southern lacrosse

Rebels win back-to-back state championships

VHHS seniors Alex Bates, Joe Delozier and Peyton Taylor committed to play lacrosse at Birmingham-Southern College during a ceremony held in March. Photo by Katie Turpen.

By KATIE TURPEN On Friday, March 6, during a ceremony held at City Hall, three Vestavia Hill High School seniors committed to play lacrosse at Birmingham-Southern College, home to the state of Alabama’s first college lacrosse program, which started in 2009. They will play under Coach Casey Kear. Alex Bates, Joe Delozier and Peyton Taylor have all played for the Vestavia lacrosse program, which finished second in the 2014 state playoffs. Bates is a goalie, Delozier plays

defense and Taylor is an attack man. Coach Randy Nace has led the Vestavia team for the last two years, after previously serving as head coach of the University of Alabama men’s lacrosse program. “We are very proud of these young men and the Vestavia lacrosse program,” said Mayor Butch Zaragoza during the ceremony. For more information about Vestavia lacrosse, visit vestavialax.com

Vestavia Hills’ Patrick Morton goes on the attack against Spain Park in a recent match. The top-ranked team in Class 7A, the Rebels were 12-1-2 as of mid-March. The Rebels have won back-to-back state championships and are primed for their third in a row. Photo by John Michael Simpson.

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Vestavia Voice

A brand-new ballgame Catching up with Beanie Ketcham By DAVID KNOX From pro ball player to prosthetist? From the ballfield to the mission field? Lee Anne “Beanie” Ketcham’s journey might seem circuitous, but it’s as true as a trip around the base paths. You remember Beanie? If you lived in Hoover in the 1970s, you’d probably recall her as the only girl who pitched in the Dixie Youth baseball league. If you followed high school baseball in the 1980s, you probably recall Beanie as the only girl who pitched for Sammy Dunn’s Vestavia Hills Rebels, posting a 12-5 record with six saves in her senior year, helping lead the Rebs to the Class 6A state finals. If you were a college softball aficionado, you’d recall Beanie as the shortstop on Oklahoma State’s fourtime Big 8 champions, the Cowgirls making two appearances in the Women’s College World Series, finishing third twice. If you were familiar with the Colorado Silver Bullets women’s baseball team managed by Atlanta Braves Hall of Famer Phil Niekro, you might know her as the team’s ace pitcher who won the first game for a women’s team over a men’s team, pitching seven innings and striking out 14 batters. Or if you’re a Samford University fan, you’d know Beanie as the women’s head softball coach for seven

Beanie Ketcham, left, volunteers with Standing With Hope to provide top-shelf prothesis to citizens of Ghana. Photos courtesy Beanie Ketcham.

seasons. But to any number of Ghanaians — and Alabamians, too — she’s the warm and compassionate prosthetist who is expertly fitting them with a new leg or arm, giving them back their mobility, their career and their honor.

Ketcham has logged a lifetime of memories and moments in a relatively short 45 years. She’s in several halls of fame, including the Vestavia Hills Sports Hall of Fame and the Alabama Dixie Softball HOF, and is pictured with her

Silver Bullets teammates in Cooperstown at the National Baseball Hall of Fame. She won the Sington Award in 1995 as Alabama’s Female Pro Athlete of the Year. But she says she lives in the “now,” and the now is building and fitting

prostheses at Birmingham Limb and Brace and, for the past three years, as a volunteer for Standing With Hope, a Christian ministry based in Nashville that sends prosthetists to Ghana. Faith has been a guiding force in her progression. “I had a heart to help people draw on their faith,” Ketcham said. “I kind of had in mind possibly getting a master’s in theology and be a team chaplain for a professional team and decided I wanted to go to seminary.” So she enrolled at Samford and began and completed a master’s in theological studies at Beeson Divinity School. But circumstances warranted that she help coach softball as a graduate assistant to help pay for school, which eventually led to her taking over as head coach. Seven years later, she felt like she was being called in another direction, and she resigned. “I took a summer off and was making lists of what I wanted as a priority in moving to another career,” Ketcham said. “One requirement was I really wanted to do something that I could do in the mission field that would have an eternal impact. “So I came upon prosthetics, and I said this really combines my skill set, my interests, my passions.” She went on the Internet, searched out local companies and began shadowing prosthetists. She began working at Birmingham Limb and Brace, under the tutelage of

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vestaviavoice.com Gerald Deason, and with a little more schooling she became certified and licensed in January 2014. “It’s been a bit of a journey but it’s been a really, really good one. I’ve seen the hand of God just really provide and open doors along the way, as just confirmation that I was headed down the right path.” One of those paths took her to Ghana. While searching the Internet about prosthetics, Ketcham had come across Standing With Hope. She contacted them about volunteering. They asked her to apply, and her first trip to West Africa was in 2012. She returned in 2013 and 2014. Her plans for this year are not set, but she’d like to go back. She has to raise some $4,500 to make the trip, which is typically about a 10-day stint. The organization works exclusively in Ghana, with the cooperation of the government of Ghana, working through Ghana Health Services, which has a prosthesis clinic. “(Standing With Hope) uses prosthetics as a way of sharing the gospel of Christ,” she said. “They came in alongside them to help equip the clinic

April 2015 • B19

Ketcham, right, works in the Ghana clinic alongside a volunteer from Connecticut.

better to increase the quality and the level of service that they were able to give their patients, so they would bring a prosthetist or two over every year and train the staff and also fit difficult patients. Standing With

On playing baseball for Sammy Dunn: “I loved baseball. Loved playing. Starting playing when I was 8, pitching since I was 9. It was the next step in my career as a player. You have to give Coach Dunn a lot of credit, especially for the time. He said if I was good enough to make the team, then I would make

the team, if I was good enough to play, then I would play. And so, all I did was go out there and compete. And actually, I was playing with a lot of the guys that I had grown up playing against because I grew up in Hoover. So I knew a lot of the guys already.”

Hope also sends crates of supplies and materials that they cannot get in Africa to help build prostheses. The thing that makes them different is they are doing carbon fiber laminated prosthetic sockets.

“Essentially, it’s enabled a Third World country to build a prosthesis that’s almost as good as one that they can get here, but for a fraction of the cost.” Ketcham said the staff there is learning and getting better at making prostheses and fitting patients. The goal is for them to become self-sufficient. She said although she gives of her time and talent, she gets so much more from seeing how much of a difference it makes in people’s lives. “In Africa, pretty much everybody we put a prosthesis on literally dances. A lot of them come in, even if they have a prosthesis, their foot is duct taped together, they’re walking on carbon fiber, there’s no foot shell, the suspension sleeve they have is in so many pieces or duct taped together and the fit is not good anymore, if it ever was. “When you fit them with a prosthesis that fits and works and you put a cosmetic cover on it so that it resembles their other leg, which is very important to

Africans, I can’t tell you how grateful they are and how excited they are.” Ketcham said that’s something she’s learned about the African culture. “It’s a shame/honor culture. They are ashamed because they’re missing a limb or they’re not whole. To put them back on two feet, put them in a position where they can earn a living and provide for their family, is really restorative and takes that shame away.” The Christian aspect of the ministry isn’t a hard-sell job. The staff there are typically Christians, and many of those they treat are Christians. But even for those who are not, the ministry is really the gift of the prosthesis and the skill of the technicians. When they deliver the prosthesis, they will share the gospel of Christ. “We really just share the truth and love them and allow God to work in their hearts however he chooses.”

On the Silver Bullets: “It was honestly a total blast, one of the best times I’ve ever had in my life. I loved the lifestyle of being on the road, I loved traveling, loved playing in the stadiums we played in – probably 10 major league stadiums and 30 minor league stadiums. Turner Field, Candlestick Park … Mile High, Coors Field … got to pitch at Fenway Park. “Joe and Phil Niekro were just fantastic. Worked mostly with Joe and Phil because of the pitching. Great players, great friends, great camaraderie, really good times.”

B20 â&#x20AC;˘ April 2015

Vestavia Voice

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April 2015 • B21

Calendar Vestavia Events April 7: Help the Hills Town Hall Meeting. 6 p.m. Vestavia Hills United Methodist Church. NBA Medical Director Dr. Steve Taylor will speak. Visit leadershipvestaviahills.com. April 9: Parental Swim Safety Education Class. 5:45-7 p.m. Vestavia Hills YMCA. Call 823-0144. April 11: Paul Meyers Memorial Golf Tournament. Highland Park Golf Course. Single player $150,

foursome $600, barbecue and party $40. Visit golf4paul.com. April 11: Vestavia Hills High School Prom. 8 p.m. Cahaba Grand Conference Center. Visit vestavia.k12. al.us. April 13-17: In-pool Swim Safety Course. Vestavia Hills YMCA. Call 823-0144. April 16: Dogwood Luncheon.

11:30 a.m.-1 p.m. Dogwood Room. Vestavia City Center. Visit vestaviahillsparks.com. April 17-18: Arts on the Plaza. Friday 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Saturday 9 a.m.-3 p.m. Rocky Ridge Plaza Shopping Center. Call 978-1451 April 18: Art in the Hills. 10 a.m.4 p.m. Vestavia Hills City Center. Visit vestaviabeautiful.com.

April 18: Vestavia Hills Relay for Life. 2 p.m.-midnight. Vestavia Hills High School. Help Youth Leadership Vestavia raise $250,000 in 2015. April 18-May 3: 2015 Decorator’s Showhouse. The Upton Estate. Proceeds benefit Alabama Symphony Orchestra. Visit symphonyvolunteercouncil.org.

Vestavia Hills Baptist Church. Visit ameliacenter.org. April 25: Vestavia First Responders Celebration. 3-6 p.m. Mountain Top Church. Tickets $10 in advance, $15 day of event, free for ages 6 and younger. Visit vestaviasunriserotary. com. April 25: 2014 Casino Royale. 7-10 p.m. Vestavia Hills Library in the Forest. Call librarypals.org.

April 19: Amelia Center Pancake Supper. 5:30-7 p.m.

Library in the Forest Events Contact Eden Pfaff at epfaff@bham.lib.al.us or 978-4678 or visit vestavialibrary.org

Kids Mondays: Tween-Scene. 3:30 p.m. Crafts, activities and volunteer opportunities. Mondays: Maker Mondays. 6:30. Children’s Program Room. Opportunities for children to learn and create. Tuesdays: Together with Twos (24-36 mos.). 9:30 a.m. and 10:30 a.m. Community Room. Storytime for toddlers and caregivers.

Tuesdays: PJ Storytime. 6:30 p.m. Childrens Program Room. Wednesdays: Story Friends (5 and under). 10:30 a.m. Children’s Program Room. Wednesdays: Skit-torytime! for school-age kids. 3:30 p.m. Children’s Program Room. Snacks provided. Thursdays: L.I.F.T. Library in the Forest Time. 9:30 a.m. Children’s Program Room. Play for preschoolers and caregivers.

Thursdays: Book Babies (Birth-12 months). 9:30 a.m. Treehouse. Storytime for babies and caregivers.

April 21: Otaku Time. 4 p.m. Historical Room. Read, discuss and exchange manga. Snacks served.

the Children’s Department. Tickets can be purchased from a PALS member or the library.

Thursdays: Book Babies (13-18 months). 10:30 a.m. Treehouse. Storytime for babies and caregivers.

April 21: Family Night Mad Scientist. 6 p.m. Community Room. Dynamic Education Adventures will concoct a meal.

Teens

March 30-April 2: Stay-cation Spring Break Camp. 1-3:30 p.m. Community Room. Registration is limited to 75 and must be kindergarten-fifth grade. April 3: Preschool Pals: Doc McStuffed Animals. 10:30 a.m. Community Room.

April 25: Lego Wars. 11 a.m. Children’s Program Room. Children first grade and up make Lego creations. April 25: PALS Casino Night. 6:30 p.m. Community Room and Observation Deck. PALS fundraiser for

Fridays: Open Gaming. 4 p.m. Community Room. Play Wii, WiiU and Xbox 360 with other teens. April 1: Film-making in the Forest. 4:30 p.m. Historical Room. Teens create short films for national competitions.

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B22 • April 2015

Vestavia Voice

Calendar Library Events (continued) April 8: Teen Writing Group. 4 p.m. Historical Room. Build writing skills and provide feedback to other teen writers. April 11: Minecraft in the Forest. 1 p.m. Historical Room. To register, call Daniel at 978-3683. April 14: Fandom Tuesday. 4 p.m. Community Room. Movies, crafts and themed foods for this month’s fandom. April 15: Studio 1221. 4 p.m. Treehouse. Make crafts and artwork with the Teen Department. April 21: Otaku Time. 4 p.m. Historical Room. Read, discuss and exchange manga. Snacks served. April 22: Teen Writing Group. 4 p.m. Historical Room. Build writing skills and receive feedback on work.

April 7: Microsoft PowerPoint. 5:30 p.m. Electronic Classroom. Learn how to create slideshow presentations. Registration required. Call 978-0155. April 7: Lit Lunch Bunch: Adult Book Group. Noon. Historical Room. Read Dollbaby by Laura Lane McNeal. April 9: Cahaba Heights Book Group for Adults. 6:30 p.m. BAM Sports Grill. Read The Good Girl by Mary Kubica.

Adults

April 14: Ms. Olivia’s Evening Reads. 6 p.m. Historical Room.

April 1 and April 2: Microsoft Excel Part 1. 5:30 p.m. Electronic Classroom. Gain basic understanding of Microsoft Excel. Registration required. Call 978-0155.

April 14: All About Apple iPods, iPhones and iPads with Tech-Ease. 2 p.m. Electronic Classroom. Workshop on Apple products geared towards casual users. Call 978-0155.

April 6: Resume 101. 5:30 p.m. Electronic Classroom. Learn how to create a professional resume using Microsoft

April 15: Job Searching with Jack Norris. 1:30 p.m. Community Room. April 16: Photo Editing with Apple iPhoto. 4 p.m. Learn the basics of Apple iPhoto. Call 978-0155. April 23: Friends of the Library Presents. 10 a.m. Community Room.

Take us with you. Award-winning community journalism on your mobile phone. VestaviaVoice.com

April 8: ROI Professional Networking. 7:30-8:30 a.m. Vestavia Hills Chamber of Commerce. Visit business.vestaviahills.org. April 14: Chamber of Commerce Luncheon. 11:30 a.m.-1 p.m. Vestavia Country Club. Visit business.vestaviahills.org.

April 21: Business Development Committee Meeting. 8-9 a.m. Vestavia Hills Chamber of Commerce. Visit business.vestaviahills.org. April 28: Mayor’s Prayer Breakfast. 7:30-9 a.m. Vestavia Country Club. Visit business. vestaviahills.org.

April 10: “It’s All That” Trivia Night for the Adults: ’90s. 7 p.m. Community Room. April 11: Coen Brothers Film Series. The Big Lebowski. 3 p.m. Community Room. Must be 17 or older to attend, ID required.

April 3: NeedleWorks. 1 p.m. Treehouse. Knit, crochet or cross-stitch with other adults.

1975 Merryvale Road

Word and Microsoft Publisher.

April 28: Anime Movie Night. 4 p.m. Community Room.

April 3: E-Reader 1-on-1 Training. Electronic Classroom. Sign up for 30 minute time slot and learn how to check out books from the library on your electronic device. Call 978-0155.

Vestavia Hills Chamber of Commerce

Vestavia Hills City Council 513 Montgomery Highway April 9: Planning and Zoning Commission. 6 p.m. Council Chambers. Call 978-0184. April 13: City Council Meeting. 5 p.m. Council Chambers. Call 978-0184. April 16: Board of Zoning Adjustment. 6-7 p.m. Council

Chambers. Call 978-0184. April 21: Parks and Recreation Board. 7 a.m. Vestavia Hills Civic Center, 1973 Merryvale Road. Call 978-0166. April 27: City Council Meeting. 5 p.m. Council Chambers. Call 978-0184.

B22 • April 2015

Vestavia Voice

Calendar Library Events

Vestavia Hills Chamber of Commerce

(continued) April 8: Teen Writing Group. 4 p.m. Historical Room. Build writing skills and provide feedback to other teen writers. April 11: Minecraft in the Forest. 1 p.m. Historical Room. To register, call Daniel at 978-3683. April 14: Fandom Tuesday. 4 p.m. Community Room. Movies, crafts and themed foods for this month’s fandom. April 15: Studio 1221. 4 p.m. Treehouse. Make crafts and artwork with the Teen Department. April 21: Otaku Time. 4 p.m. Historical Room. Read, discuss and exchange manga. Snacks served. April 22: Teen Writing Group. 4 p.m. Historical Room. Build writing skills and receive feedback on work.

1975 Merryvale Road

Word and Microsoft Publisher.

April 8: ROI Professional Networking. 7:30-8:30 a.m. Vestavia Hills Chamber of Commerce. Visit business.vestaviahills.org.

April 11: Coen Brothers Film Series. The Big Lebowski. 3 p.m. Community Room. Must be 17 or older to attend, ID required.

Adults

April 14: Ms. Olivia’s Evening Reads. 6 p.m. Historical Room.

April 1 and April 2: Microsoft Excel Part 1. 5:30 p.m. Electronic Classroom. Gain basic understanding of Microsoft Excel. Registration required. Call 978-0155.

April 14: All About Apple iPods, iPhones and iPads with Tech-Ease. 2 p.m. Electronic Classroom. Workshop on Apple products geared towards casual users. Call 978-0155.

April 3: NeedleWorks. 1 p.m. Treehouse. Knit, crochet or cross-stitch with other adults. April 6: Resume 101. 5:30 p.m. Electronic Classroom. Learn how to create a professional resume using Microsoft

April 28: Mayor’s Prayer Breakfast. 7:30-9 a.m. Vestavia Country Club. Visit business. vestaviahills.org.

April 10: “It’s All That” Trivia Night for the Adults: ’90s. 7 p.m. Community Room.

April 28: Anime Movie Night. 4 p.m. Community Room.

April 3: E-Reader 1-on-1 Training. Electronic Classroom. Sign up for 30 minute time slot and learn how to check out books from the library on your electronic device. Call 978-0155.

April 14: Chamber of Commerce Luncheon. 11:30 a.m.-1 p.m. Vestavia Country Club. Visit business.vestaviahills.org.

April 21: Business Development Committee Meeting. 8-9 a.m. Vestavia Hills Chamber of Commerce. Visit business.vestaviahills.org.

Vestavia Hills City Council 513 Montgomery Highway April 9: Planning and Zoning Commission. 6 p.m. Council Chambers. Call 978-0184.

April 15: Job Searching with Jack Norris. 1:30 p.m. Community Room.

April 13: City Council Meeting. 5 p.m. Council Chambers. Call 978-0184.

April 16: Photo Editing with Apple iPhoto. 4 p.m. Learn the basics of Apple iPhoto. Call 978-0155. April 23: Friends of the Library Presents. 10 a.m. Community Room.

April 16: Board of Zoning Adjustment. 6-7 p.m. Council

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Calendar Area Events Jan. 30-April 26: Rembrandt, Vermeer, Hals and Their Contemporaries. Birmingham Museum of Art. Features works by the greatest masters of the Dutch Flemish Golden Age. Visit artsbma.org. April 4: Art on R Mountain. 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Ruffner Mountain Nature Center. Fine art and craft show. Free admission. Call 223-7251. April 4: Tragic City All Stars vs. Hard Knox Rollers Girls. 7 p.m. Zamora Shrine Temple. Visit tragiccityrollers.com. April 10-11: 17th Annual Lebanese Food and Cultural Festival. 10 a.m.-9 p.m. St. Elias Maronite Catholic Church. Free admission. Band, dancing, silent auction and 5K. Visit stelias.org. April 11: Walk for Autism. 7:30 a.m. Veterans Park. There will be a resource fair, snacks provided by Zoe’s Kitchen, Earthfare and Nola-Ice and activities for children such as face painting and arts and crafts. Prior to the walk will be the 5K Race to Solve the Puzzle. Visit walkforautismal.com. April 11: Reading, Writing and Rhythms: A Kickoff Event for Birmingham Reads. 3-9 p.m. Avondale Brewery. Raffles and live music featuring Jeremy Moore, Joel Madison Blount, Jordan Teague and The Heavy Hearts. April 11: 2015 Alabama Asian Cultures and Food Festival. 10:30 a.m.-4 p.m. Zamora Shrine Temple. $8 for adults, $5 teens, and active duty military, veterans, and college students with ID,

free for children 12 and under. Call 903-5569. April 11: Tempo: A Family Fun Festival. 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Crestwood Park. Free. April 12: Run for a Reason Benefitting Sozo Children. 3:30 p.m.-6:30 p.m. Hargis Retreat, Chelsea. Registration is $45. All event proceeds will be used to save or rescue orphans in Uganda, Africa. April 12: Magic City Sunday Supper. Fifty suppers available for pick-up or home delivery. Supper costs $500 with two VIP supper packages costing $3,000. Visit magiccitysupper.com. April 9-12: Alabama Ballet Presents Ovation. Dorothy Jemison Day Theatre, Alabama School of Fine Arts campus. $25-45. Call 975-2787 or visit alabamaballet.org for tickets. April 10-11: Samford A Capella Choir Performance. 8 p.m. Alys Stephens Center. Visit alabamasymphony.org. April 10-12: Birmingham Botanical Gardens Spring Plant Sale. Friday 10 a.m.7 p.m., Saturday 9 a.m.-5 p.m., Sunday 11 a.m.-3 p.m. Brookwood Village. More than 100,000 plants will be available for purchase including this year’s gold-themed signature plants. Visit bbgardens.org/ springplantsale. April 16: Chasing Dreams: African Americans and the Perpetual Pursuit of Voting Rights. 7 p.m. Birmingham Civil Rights

Institute. A public lecture by Dr. Charles McKinney, associate professor at Rhodes College. April 16: Rivals for Wishes: Foes for a Year, Friends for a Night. 5:30-10 p.m. Regions Field. Make-A-Wish Alabama brings Auburn and Alabama Athletics together for Football Feud. Visit alabama.wish.org. April 17: Birmingham Reads Book Drive. 4 a.m-6:30 p.m. Brookwood Village. Donate new and gently used children’s books that will be distributed to students through Better Basics’ programs. Visit betterbasics.org. April 18-May 3: 2015 Decorator’s Showhouse. The Upton Estate in Vestavia Hills. Visit alabamasymphony.org. April 18: Mountain Brook Art Association Spring Art Show. 9-4 a.m. Crestline Field. Original paintings from local artists for sale. Live jazz band and food vendors. Visit mountainbrookartassociation.com. April 18: The Episcopal Place Gumbo Gala. 11 a.m.-2 p.m. Regions Field. Forty gumbo cook teams will cook and serve gumbo. Live music by Rollin’ in the Hay, children’s activities and vendors selling theme-related Alabama products. $12. Visit gumbogala.com. April 18: Curtain Call Ball. 5-8 p.m. Birmingham Children’s Theatre. Family of Four: $125 Individual, Adult: $50, Individual Child: $25. Visit bct123.org.

April 19: H.T. Chen and Dancers. 3 p.m. Leslie S. Wright Fine Arts Center-Samford University. $20 reserved, $15 general admission. Visit samford. edu/wrightcenter/. April 24-26: Honda Indy Grand Prix of Alabama. Barber Motorsports Park. $15. Children 12 and under free with a ticketed adult. Visit barbermotorsports.com. April 24: Tails in the Trails. 6:30-10:30 p.m. Birmingham Zoo. Early bird tickets, $15 through March 31, $20 April 1- April 23, $25 at the door. Visit birminghamzoo.com. April 24-25: Gardendale Magnolia Festival. Friday 5-10 p.m., Saturday 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Gardendale Civic Center. Free admission and parking. Live entertainment, vendor booths, carnival, eating contests and more. Visit magnoliafestival.org. April 24-26: Magic City Art Connection Art Bash. Friday 10 a.m.-6 p.m., Saturday 10 a.m.-6 p.m., Sunday 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Linn Park. Free festival admission. Corks and Chefs: Food and Wine Tasting Event: $30 advance $35 at the door. Visit magiccityart.com. April 25: Jubilee Joe’s Crawfish Boil. 1:30-10:30 p.m. Venue 31, Pelham Event Center. 3050 Lee Street. Visit jubileejoes.com. April 25-26: Bargain Carousel. Friday 3-7 p.m., Saturday 8 a.m.- 5 p.m., Sunday 15 p.m. Prices vary by day. Call 879-9861 or visit bargaincarousel.net.

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