Vestavia Voice August 2015 by Starnes Media

Volume 3 | Issue 4 | August 2015

Racing for hope

What’s in a name?

This month, the third annual Urban Purpose Challenge will take place at Shades Mountain Baptist Church. Find details inside.

See page A19

Back in the game

A large number of community members attended the special called board meeting on July 15 to hear the Board of Education’s decision concerning the Vestavia Hills High School mascot. Photo by Ron Burkett.

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symbols following the tragic shooting in South Carolina. Locally, it sparked a debate on whether or not the school should change its Rebel Man mascot. After the board’s July 15 decision to keep the Rebel name but rebrand

See MASCOT | page A22

Development discussions continue in Cahaba Heights By KATIE TURPEN Development has recently been a popular discussion in the Cahaba Heights area. Around 100 members of the community gathered in July to discuss a potential development near the elementary school. Developer Steven Hydinger, a managing member of the property’s management company,

BREC Development, presented plans for a 150-unit apartment complex between Dolly Ridge Road and Oakview Lane and stated how it would beneﬁt the community. Community members expressed concerns about the complex such as crime and sexual predators and stated that the plan would not ﬁt into a mixed-use walkable community. In the same week, during a

See CAHABA HEIGHTS | page A23

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What does it mean to be a Rebel? The Vestavia Hills Board of Education has decided it will no longer be deﬁned by the long-standing VHHS mascot, but much of what students and community members say

what it means to them will remain the same during the rebranding process. “It’s not going to change how others perceive us or who we are,” said rising VHHS senior and football player Stone Brooks. VHHS was thrown into the spotlight as part of a national discussion on Confederate

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See page B10

By KATIE TURPEN

Check out what’s ahead this season with our Vestavia Hills High School football preview inside this issue.

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A2 • August 2015

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A4 • August 2015

Vestavia Voice

About Us Photo of the Month

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Doug Berky visited the Library in the Forest this summer where he entertained the audience with an engaging performance. Photo courtesy of the Library in the Forest.

Editor’s Note By Sydney Cromwell When I first saw a few Facebook comments and an opinion article about changing the VHHS Rebels mascot, I had no idea the topic would dominate conversations for the next month. The degree of public outcry, on both sides of the debate, took me by surprise. It inspired passion on social media and in standing-room only meetings. Something about the Rebel Man hit a nerve, and the community responded in force. The conflict that brewed in our city got the attention of national news outlets

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and an HBO comedy show. Now that a decision is made, I am left wondering how this will affect Vestavia Hills. How and when will we move forward from this? After a month of arguments, will we be able to put that aside and see ourselves as a close community, not a divided one? There is still a lot in Vestavia Hills that we can all rally around. We can take pride in our students and their accomplishments. We can still cheer on our Rebels as they take the football field this fall. Far more than

Dan Starnes Keith McCoy Sydney Cromwell Madoline Markham David Knox Katie Turpen Erica Techo Roy L. Williams Madison Miller Louisa Jeffries Emily VanderMey Matthew Allen Rhonda Smith Warren Caldwell Brittany Joffrion Don Harris Michelle Salem Haynes Kari Kampakis Jordan Hays Chris Griesedieck Olivia Burton Danni Zhou Vestavia Voice LLC

they need a mascot, these students need the support and encouragement of their families, their teachers and their neighbors as they start a new school year. This month’s paper includes plenty of things our city can be proud of, from a new community garden in Rocky Ridge to a young chef using his psychology degree to run a restaurant kitchen. I don’t know the future of the Rebel Man mascot or his rebranding, but I’m hopeful that Vestavia Hills will stand as strong as ever.

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

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

For advertising contact: dan@vestaviavoice.com

Legals: Vestavia Voice is published monthly. Reproduction

or use of editorial 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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August 2015 â&#x20AC;˘ A5

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A6 • August 2015

Vestavia Voice

City Mayor’s Minute

By Alberto “Butch” Zaragoza I would like to take an opportunity to talk to our citizens about the zoning process. We follow a certain procedure and would like the public to be aware of the necessary steps to rezone their property. Zoning is defined as the governmental regulation of the use of land. The procedure to rezone in the City of Vestavia Hills is as follows: The owner makes application for the rezoning of a parcel of property. The zoning staff will then review the information and possibly meet with the owner to determine if the request meets the specifications of the City’s Master Plan. Notification is sent to owners of property located within 500 feet of the boundaries of the subject property. In addition, a sign is affixed to the property indicating the date and time of said request. On the Wednesday prior to the Planning and Zoning Commission meeting, the Commission will hold a regularly scheduled work session to discuss all upcoming requests. It is open to the public; however, no public input is taken except at the call of the Commission Chairman. At a regularly scheduled meeting

of the Commission, the request is presented by the City Planner. The Commission will question the applicant for any other needed information and a public hearing will then be conducted. The Commission will make a recommendation that is incorporated into an Ordinance, which is posted in four places in the City. Notification is again sent to all property owners within 500 feet of the boundaries of the property. Approximately five to six weeks after the Commission meeting, the City Council will consider the request at a regularly scheduled meeting and the Mayor will open the floor for a public hearing. The Council will then vote to approve or deny the request. Please contact the zoning office if you have any questions. We hope everyone had a great summer and wish all of our students and teachers a productive new school year. Your mayor,

Alberto C. “Butch” Zaragoza

VHHS concession stand construction underway

The VHHS concession stand is scheduled to complete by the ﬁrst home football game in August. Photo by Keith McCoy.

By KATIE TURPEN Construction is currently underway for the new ticket/concession building along with a new pressbox at Vestavia Hills High School. The concession stand is scheduled to complete by the ﬁrst home football game in August. Wyatt General Contractor is heading the $3.1 million project, which includes space for concessions, ticketing and a pressbox. The concession area, designed by Rick Lathan Associates, will include a brick building and is designed to provide a grand

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entrance to Thompson Reynolds Stadium. The pressbox is designed to facilitate home and visiting coaching staffs and news media for events at the stadium. Each new facility will have food service components and patron amenities. “We are pleased to be working with Vestavia City Schools on their latest improvement in the community. We have our work cut out for us to ﬁnish before football season, but that is our ultimate goal,” said John Wyatt, president, Wyatt General Contractor, LLC.

August 2015 • A7

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Entertainment district to be established in Rocky Ridge area 1456 Montgomery Hwy 31 Vestavia Hills

823-1213 823-1261 Vestavia Hills Mayor Butch Zaragoza said the city is currently looking to establish its ﬁrst entertainment district in the Rocky Ridge Shopping Center area. Photo by Sydney Cromwell.

By KATIE TURPEN Entertainment districts could soon liven up areas of Vestavia Hills. In May, the State House of Representatives passed HB 446, which allows the cities of Vestavia Hills and Hoover to establish up to three entertainment districts. Consumption of alcoholic beverages outside of licensed restaurants would be allowed within the designated districts. Alabama state representative Jack Williams sponsored the bill. Entertainment districts have the potential to bring economic beneﬁts to cities. “People approached me asking for this legislation for the purpose of designating a place for large festivals and gatherings,” Williams said. While he did not designate any speciﬁc areas

in either city for these districts, Vestavia Hills Mayor Butch Zaragoza said the city is currently looking to establish its ﬁrst entertainment district in the Rocky Ridge Shopping Center area. “We are currently laying out borders and looking at boundaries,” Zaragoza said. “We hope to move forward with establishing an ordinance. The sooner, the better.” Once an ordinance is established, Zaragoza said the city will look into planning special events in the Rocky Ridge area. While Rocky Ridge is the only area that the city is currently looking into, he says future entertainment districts could be located in Cahaba Heights or along U.S. 31 near city hall. “There are certain requirements that have to be met and we don’t have those just yet,” Zaragoza said.

Candidates to begin collecting contributions for municipal elections this month By KATIE TURPEN On August 23, 2016, the city of Vestavia Hills will hold a municipal election for the mayor and council places 1, 2, 3 and 4. All council candidates are elected “at large” within the place where they qualified. Pursuant to Alabama law, anyone who wishes to run for office may begin collecting campaign funds on Aug. 23, 2015. A candidate must begin to file information with the county probate judge once he or she reaches a threshold of $1,000. Information for filing campaign contributions and establishing a campaign committee may be obtained at the Alabama Secretary of State website, sos.alabama.gov.

Beginning around spring 2016, City Clerk Rebecca Leavings will be holding a workshop for candidates. “I generally try and reach everyone I know that has contacted me with a desire to run and invite them to the workshop to pick up all the needed information such as qualifying information, FCPA (Fair Campaign Practices Act) information, ethics information, information for voter lists, etc.,” Leavings said. “The true election qualifying begins in July and the election itself is a fast six weeks, but there’s a lot of buildup to that point.” Anyone wishing to obtain more information should contact Leavings at 978-0184 or rleavings@vhal.org.

City invites public to participate in ‘A Life Above’ photo contest By KATIE TURPEN The city of Vestavia Hills is holding a photo contest leading up to the grand opening of its new city hall this fall. The contest invites the public to capture the beauty of Vestavia Hills in any way they wish to interpret it. In addition to cash and other prizes, winning submissions may be displayed as available for purchase within the new City Hall. This juried competition is open to the public and will have grand prizes of $300 for the

professional division, $150 adult amateur division and $50 for the student division in addition to gift certiﬁcates from local merchants for runners-up. The judges panel will include photographer George Ritchey, other professional photographers, Mayor Butch Zaragoza, City Manager Jeff Downes and representation from the Vestavia Hills Beautiﬁcation Board. The deadline for submissions is 2 p.m. on Aug. 14. For details, please visit vhal.org/ photo-contest/.

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Vestavia Voice

Community celebrates I Love America Day By KATIE TURPEN The 34th Annual I Love America Summer Celebration took place Wednesday, July 1 from 6-10 p.m. at Wald Park. The event was presented by the Vestavia Hills Chamber of Commerce and Vestavia Hills Parks & Recreation. Sponsors and vendors greeted guests with refreshments, giveaways and other freebies. Guests also enjoyed free swimming and entertainment by Shades Mountain Baptist Church Orchestra with Pops in the Park.

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August 2015 • A9

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Vestavia firefighter places second in Iron City Chef 2015

Vestavia’s Trey VanHooser came in second place in the Iron City Chef competition. Photo by Jordan Hays.

By JORDAN HAYS Despite being the last one to leave the kitchen, Edward Pegues would walk away in first place as 2015’s Iron City Chef. Vestavia’s Trey VanHooser came in second place. Vestavia Hills Rotary Club decided to put a twist on their annual cooking competition. Four firefighters traded in their helmets for chef hats for Iron City Chef at Jefferson State Community College Culinary Institute, July 18. “It was a great community effort by all of our fire departments,” said Kent Howard, rotarian and event chairman. We really enjoyed it. The chefs did an outstanding job. A couple of them could open their own restaurant from the comments I’ve heard.” Competitors included Homewood’s

Alexander Glover, Mountain Brook’s Lee Currie, Hoover’s Edward Pegues and VanHooser, each with more than a decade of firefighting experience. The firefighters — chefs — began prepping their entrees days in advance for a sold out crowd of 300 hungry attendees. After the attendees’ votes were counted for best meal, it was VanHooser’s herb roasted roulade with apple chutney and Pegues’ shrimp and grits that would earn them spots in the head-to-head round. The 2015 beneficiaries of the Iron City Chef Firehouse Edition are Jefferson State Community College, the Vestavia Hills math and debate programs and the Rotary’s local and international programs including End Polio Now. The Vestavia Hills Rotary has held a signature event for the past 25 years, raising more than $675,000.

New city website, signs coming in August By SYDNEY CROMWELL A new look is in the works for Vestavia Hills, from the city’s streets to its website. As part of an ongoing branding effort, City Manager Jeff Downes said the city will launch a new website at the end of July and install new city signs in August. The city will keep its same web address, vhal.org, but with a new look. Downes said the new site will incorporate the city’s redesigned logo and make it simpler to find information such as agendas or financial reports. Unlike the current site, the new website will also resize itself to fit any screen, from laptop to smart phone. “Having a responsive website is critically important to getting your message across,” Downes said. A new Financial Transparency Portal will be added to the website, so any visitor can see a complete breakdown of the city’s budget, revenue and expenses. The portal is customizable and residents can use filters to specify what data they want to see. The city will update the portal on a monthly basis. Vestavia is also preparing to install new signs across the city. These will include a monument sign at the city’s Highway 31 entrance and pole signs noting different areas of the city such as Cahaba Heights or Rocky Ridge. Each sign will include the new city logo. With the exception of the entrance monument sign, which needs ALDOT approval, the signs will be delivered in

City manager Jeff Downes shows off the new city website, which is responsive to screen sizes for computers, tablets and phones. Photo by Sydney Cromwell.

mid-August and Downes said installation should be complete before September. “We’re trying to be conscious of how we portray ourselves publicly as a city,” Downes said. “So when you enter Vestavia Hills, you know you’re in Vestavia Hills.” The total cost of the sign project is $50,000, and the Vestavia Hills Chamber of Commerce is donating $11,000 to the project.

A10 • August 2015

Vestavia Voice

HEAL Alabama celebrates grand opening in Vestavia Hills

Senator Jabo Waggoner and Vestavia Hills Mayor Butch Zaragoza led all those in attendance on a walk to Southminster Presbyterian Church on the sidewalks that border U.S. 31. Photos by Jordan Hays.

By KATIE TURPEN AND JORDAN HAYS HEAL Alabama opened its world headquarters in Vestavia Hills with a ribbon-cutting ceremony on June 23. The headquarters is located at 1360 Montgomery Highway, Suite 116. Elected local and state leaders, business leaders and various sports stars were in attendance along with 70 education leaders. The ribbon-cutting event included a media tour of the facility, which features a television studio and test

HEAL Alabama opened its world headquarters in Vestavia Hills with a ribbon cutting on June 23.

kitchen. Senator Jabo Waggoner and Vestavia Hills Mayor Butch Zaragoza led attendees on a walk to Southminster Presbyterian Church on the sidewalks that border U.S. 31. Zaragoza said the walk was an example of the healthy lifestyle the HEAL organization aims to promote. “Now that these sidewalks are provided, there’s no reason not to get out in the afternoon or early morning for your exercise,” said Zaragoza.

HEAL Alabama was formed as a nonprofit in 2007 by founder Christy Swaid with a mission to measurably improve children’s health. The organization provides a free 20-week health curriculum to elementary schools for daily implementation during P.E. As of May 2015, the program is in 88 of Alabama’s 750 elementary schools, with funding provided by Blue Cross Blue Shield of Alabama, Alabama Power and the Alabama State Department of Education. Swaid said HEAL is teaching children not just

what to do, but also why they should do it. “We are teaching children at a very young age to take care of their bodies to prevent diseases, and not just learn how but learn to enjoy the process,” she said. “We have a team of professors, creative geniuses and medical directors who have all influenced this curriculum. The HEAL approach is the most effective rescue mission.” For more, visit healalabama.org.

August 2015 • A11

VestaviaVoice.com

Children enjoy community garden at Rocky Ridge Learning Center

Children at Rocky Ridge Learning Center are learning about growing and eating their own food in their community garden. Photos by Katie Turpen.

By KATIE TURPEN Hidden behind the playground at Rocky Ridge Learning Center is a garden that ignites the senses. The children at the daycare will soon be able to watch plants such as sunflowers and strawberries grow due to their care efforts. Christa Wolfe, president of Rocky

Ridge Learning Center, said it was her husband Rob’s idea to have a community garden at their daycare. Rob grows a variety of things at home, and the couple agreed that the educational aspect would be beneficial to the children. “To them, food comes from the supermarket, meat comes in Styrofoam containers,” Rob said. “It’s

important for the kids to know where food actually comes from.” The couple spent some time researching different ideas for the garden and what the children could eat at the daycare. The result was a garden with pumpkins, green beans, eggplant, tomatoes and strawberries. The children are getting to grow mint and sunflowers as well.

The children will water and take care of the garden daily and Rob said they even plan to grow food such as collards in the winter months. “We plan to serve some inside the center and also send the food home with them so they can share with their families,” he said. Christa purchased Rocky Ridge Learning Center in August 2014. The

center is open Monday through Friday and serves children ages six weeks to six years old. For more about the center, located in the Rocky Ridge Plaza Shopping Center, visit rockyridgelearningcenter. com.

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August 2015 • A13

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New Ownership Vestavia natives William Bruner, Joshua Bruner and Adrienne Bruner are now the owners of the Johnny Brusco’s New York Style Pizza at 2516 Rocky Ridge Road. The family-based business serves pizza and local beers. 637-5270, johnnybruscos.com

News and Accomplishments Valerie Leonard, ﬁnancial advisor and partner with Grinkmeyer Leonard Financial, was named to Investment News’ “40 Under 40” list. She was the only person from Alabama to be named to the list. Grinkmeyer Leonard Financial is located at 1950 Stonegate Drive, Suite 275. 970-9088, grinkmeyerleonard.com

Reliance Financial Group was recently recognized by the Birmingham Business Journal as a finalist in the 2015 Nonprofit Awards in the Corporate Citizen category. Its corporate office is located in Liberty Park at 1400 Urban Center Drive, Suite 475. 397-2450, rfgadvisory.com

Urban Cookhouse, 250 Summit Blvd., Suite 102, has added strawberry lemonade milkshakes to its menu. Restaurant owners purchase 1,000 gallons of strawberries annually from Harvest Farm in Cullman to make the lemonade and shakes. 969-6700, urbancookhouse.com

Mr. Clay’s Barber Shop, 2502 Rocky Ridge Road, has a new phone number. 475-8074

Hirings and Promotions RealtySouth’s Over the Mountain Acton Ofﬁce, 2409 Acton Road, Suite 137, has welcomed Beth Russom as a new agent. 978-9000, realtysouth.com

Andy Dickerson has been hired as a controller for Landscape Workshop, 550 Montgomery Highway, Suite 200. 547-3945, landscapeworkshop.com

Anniversaries Dr. Stephanie Steinmetz is beginning her 25th year of serving the pediatric dental community in the Over the Mountain area. Her practice is located at 521 Montgomery Highway, Suite 125. 822-4284, steinmetzpediatricdentistry.org

Klingler’s, 621 Montgomery Highway, is celebrating its 24th anniversary of business in Vestavia Hills. 823-4560, klinglers.com

Agile Physical Therapy, 4851 Cahaba River Road, Suite 137, is celebrating its seventh anniversary in August. 969-7887, myagilept.com

TJC Mortgage, 3168 Cahaba Heights Road, is celebrating its 10year anniversary. 815-9200, tjcmortgage.com

Closings 12

Kool Korner Sandwiches, 790 Montgomery Highway, has closed.

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A14 • August 2015

Vestavia Voice

Community Blogging conference coming to Library in the Forest By KATIE TURPEN On Saturday, August 1, local women bloggers are invited to network with one another at the Bloganista MiniCon presented by Laura Vincent Printing & Design at the Library in the Forest. Javacia Harris Bowser is the founder of See Jane Write, a Birmingham-based blog consulting service that serves as a network of women writers, bloggers and entrepreneurs. This is the second year for the blogging conference. “This year’s conference is all about encouraging women to take their blogs to the next level by really getting serious about them,” said Bowser. “That can be whether they hope to turn their blog into a business or want to use their blogs to promote themselves as a freelance writer or author.”

Bloganista Mini-Con presented by Laura Vincent Printing & Design Saturday, Aug. 1, Library in the Forest 10 a.m. – 4:30 p.m. seejanewritebham.com/bloganista

The day will begin with the Morning Mingle. During this time attendees will enjoy a continental brunch and coffee from Church Street Coffee and Books. LightWorks Chair Massage will be giving free chair massages during this time. Morning keynote speaker Chanda Temple will critique business cards. To teach bloggers how to get the word out about their sites, the morning keynote address by public relations pro Chanda Temple will focus on personal

branding and effective self-promotion. A panel discussion will cover blogging best practices, how to grow your blog and how to turn your blog into a business. There will also be a panel discussion all about magazines. This will cover how to freelance for magazines, how to get covered by magazines and how to start a magazine of your own, as these are all topics usually of interest to bloggers. For the afternoon keynote,

Javacia Harris Bowser is the founder of See Jane Write, a Birminghambased blog consulting service that serves as a network of women writers, bloggers and entrepreneurs. Photo courtesy of Javacia Harris Bowser.

nationally recognized fashion blogger Jeniese Hosey will discuss how she grew her blog and will discuss the not-so-glamorous side of fashion blogging. Lois Weinblatt of True North Business Development will be on site to discuss the importance of having a vision for your blog and business.

During lunch, which will be provided by Full Moon Bar-B-Que, attendees will have a chance to chat with panelists and speakers. The ticket price also includes an afternoon sweet treat, a cookie break sponsored by Insomnia Cookies. For more information, visit seejanewritebham.com/bloganista.

Vestavia dining spots participate in Birmingham Restaurant Week This year Zagat ranked Birmingham “America’s No. 1 Next Hot Food City,” and Birmingham Restaurant Week plans to celebrate its culinary culture Aug. 14-23. Vestavia Hills restaurants that have already committed to participate are: FoodBar, Primeaux Cheese & Vino, Flip Burger and Satterfield’s. In total, 50 establishments participated last year.

During the 10 days, restaurants will offer special two and/or three-course prix fixe lunch and/or dinner menus for $5, $10, $20 or $30 per person. Several menus will also include beer and/or wine flight components, brunch offerings and other drink specials. Restaurant Week is organized by REV Birmingham, which works to revitalize places and

energize business to create vibrancy in the city of Birmingham. Last year the event brought on a 20 percent average increase in restaurant sales compared to other 10-day periods. “Our hope is that this 10-day event will draw attention to the top-notch locally owned dining opportunities right here in Birmingham,” said James Little, BRW creator/director and district

manager of REV. “Additionally, Birmingham Restaurant Week’s economic impact helps positively impact our community, business owners and residents.” For more information, visit bhamrestaurantweek.com.

August 2015 • A15

VestaviaVoice.com

Resident shares experience as chef in Uptown district By MARIENNE THOMAS OGLE Stephen Hess may be an executive chef and kitchen manager, but he said he’s continually grateful for his degree in psychology. It aids him with “the broad dynamic of personalities, needs and interactions” that occur daily in the kitchen of Cantina Laredo. “Managing people and situations every day is a challenge,” he said. “Both your co-workers and guests thrive on the mutual relationship that develops as a result of a supply-need interaction.” Hired as executive chef just prior to the restaurant’s opening in the Uptown entertainment district about a year ago, Hess said his title is somewhat misleading. His responsibilities extend beyond food and include a variety of tasks, including purchasing and receiving and the oversight of all sanitation practices. “It depends on the need at the moment — it’s a scratch kitchen and I oversee the back line where items like rice, beans and signature sauces must be ready and right for the doors to open,” Hess said. “And then the pressure turns to the front line, where I make sure every plate is right and served in a timely manner. I can cook anything on the menu and have done most everything in a restaurant, from the dishes to handling the profit and loss statements.” Hess, who resides in Vestavia with his wife and two children, has spent

Local resident Stephen Hess is an executive chef and kitchen manager at Cantina Laredo in the Uptown Entertainment District. Photo by Jordan Hays.

nearly half of his 33 years in the hospitality and beverage service, rising to his position with no formal training. At 15, he jumped into the summer and after-school workforce, working at the entry level as a dishwasher and

busboy. After graduating from John Carroll High School, he entered Birmingham-Southern College to pursue psychology, paying his bills via restaurant work, which eventually included cooking at locations of TGI Friday’s

and Chappy’s Deli. He took a break from school when he was promoted to management at the Prairie Fire Grill and Original Joe’s restaurants, but when they closed he headed back to Birmingham-Southern

and finished his degree. After graduation, Hess worked in a few more restaurant kitchens before being recruited to Cantina Laredo. “I had actually intended to pursue my Ph.D. but my graduation coincided with the birth of our son, so I decided to utilize the skills I had by applying my knowledge to this field,” he said. Hess said he views psychology as a mindset rather than a skill set and uses it as “a predictive and managerial tool” in his job. “It’s important to know the people around you and learn how to work together, develop expectations and execute our respective functions in the restaurant,” he said. “Every day is different. You might be serving the same food, but you never know what’s going to happen.” Susi Smith, Cantina Laredo’s general manager, said she highly values Hess’ attitude and all the experience he has gained by working his way up in the business. “Stephen is extremely creative and, while he knows when to be serious, can be light and silly and brings a sense of fun to the kitchen,” she said. “At the same time, he can do most anything here, which is vital because his area of responsibility — the back of the house — is the heart of the restaurant that is the key to a restaurant’s success.”

A16 • August 2015

Vestavia Voice

Local author discusses book of prayers By REBECCA WALDEN Robert Swaim Flowers was born a Renaissance man. At the tender age of 6 years old, he was already creating tangible versions of the stories swirling in his head. “I’ve had artistic talents since I was a small child, and those talents have grown with the years,” Flowers said. “I would create my own books, sewing them together, illustrating them with pictures and composing the stories.” That creative foundation was punctuated by other artistic passions, including musical study of the violin and woodwinds, along with a passion for sculpting. By the time Flowers reached high school, he was conducting church music and providing choral direction for his rural church. The culmination of these experiences led Flowers to enroll in Southern Baptist Theological Seminary in Louisville, Kentucky. After a year of ministry, during which time Flowers served as assistant pastor, music minister and choir conductor, Flowers felt called to merge these passions with medicine. “All of this art work no doubt helped direct me into the specialty of plastic surgery and the extra years of training it required,” Flowers said, describing his six-year surgical residency at the

Cleveland Clinic. “Contemporary graduate art work at the Cleveland Academy of Art accompanied [my residency], as did singing with the Cleveland Orchestra and Chorus, with George Szell and Robert Shaw.” Flowers said he credits these and similar experiences for inﬂuencing his bedside manner, an important component of which was to pray for each patient before they underwent surgery. The practice was also woven tightly into the cultural fabric of Flowers’ own family, including his wife Susan and their two sons. “Children’s prayer became very important to our family,” he said, noting his own admittedly failed attempt to write children’s prayers himself. “A German immigrant friend had asked that I be godfather to her daughter,” Flowers said. “She asked why there were no prayers for children in the English language and when I told her there were, sharing ‘Now I lay me down to sleep,’ she broke in and said, ‘I told you there are no prayers in English for children!’” Taking his friend’s point, Flowers said he agreed to create some. Pulling no punches, Flowers’ immigrant friend, who holds a Ph.D. in children’s literature from Stanford, immediately rejected them, describing the works as “awful.” “I prayed over the matter, and it came to me that I shouldn’t be making up the prayers, but rather should be asking God to give them to me,

In 2014, Flowers took what he refers to as his “prayer stack” and published the book, Thank You for the Morning Light: Prayers for Children.

which He did,” Flowers said. For Flowers, the process has been an intimate exercise of faith. He recalls waking up in the middle of the night with certain aspects of the prayer top of mind, and writing down as much as he could remember, only to return to them later the next day, “when the prayer’s essence would somehow return, and allow the essence of ﬁnishing.” In 2014, Flowers took what he refers to as his “prayer stack” and published the book, Thank You for the Morning Light: Prayers for Children. The book is a collection of prayers received by Flowers as well as contributions from friends and colleagues. “One of my simplest favorites was chosen by a retired Swedish missionary,” Flowers said. Over the course of their friendship, Flowers’ children’s prayers were shared with the missionary, who was so moved by them, he sent them home to relatives.

AUCTION

On one of their many visits, Flowers was humbled to see the missionary, then hospitalized following heart surgery, in a recovery room with the following prayer written on the wall in giant letters: “Beside my bed I kneel and pray That You will come Close by and stay, And be my Light To show the way… To Godly love And Godly play! Amen” The prayer, “Be my Light,” is found on page 33 in Flowers’ book. For more information about Thank You for the Morning Light: Prayers for Children, visit morninglightprayers.com.

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August 2015 • A17

VestaviaVoice.com

Aviator turned artist

Walt Costilow, air force pilot turned watercolor artist, now has works on display at the U.S. Air Force Museum, as well as with the Georgia and Texas Watercolor Societies. Photo courtesy of Walt Costilow.

By REBECCA WALDEN By the time Walt Costilow earned his collegiate aerospace engineering creds, the watercolors and artist’s pad of his childhood were all but forgotten. “Though I’d painted throughout elementary school and in high school, I knew it wasn’t what I wanted to major in during college,” Costilow said. While he managed to squeeze in oil painting courses during that time, the demands of his aerospace engineering program prevented any more. Following a successful career in the U.S. Air Force, Costilow and his family returned to Birmingham, during which time he reconnected with his beloved hobby. “I took art courses and classes alongside local artists and also studied under a few internationally known artists as well,” he said. “Until then, it was pretty much a self-taught process.” Retirement has afforded Costilow more time to focus on improving his technique. “I’m still trying to learn the discipline of the art form and to make the most of the talents I do have,” he said. “Here and there, I’ve been fortunate to have some decent success with it.” Indeed. Among Costilow’s most recent achievements are showings of his work at the Georgia Watercolor Society show, the Texas Watercolor Society and the National Museum of the US Air Force. Costilow said he is making it a priority to balance between aviation and non-aviation themed work. His leisure travels, most often to Western

Europe for river cruises throughout France and Germany, have provided endless inspiration. “One of the first artists I trained with did a lot of night cityscapes,” Costilow said. When he himself took in the stunning nighttime view of the Eiffel Tower from the vantage point of a dinner cruise along the Seine last summer, Costilow once again picked up his paintbrush. The effort turned out so well that Costilow made one for every couple in that European travel group. Reception to the piece prompted him to produce a larger body of non-aviation work. When the same group returned to Europe this past June, this time to tour Bavaria, Budapest and other areas, Costilow came prepared. “This time around, I took a little art watercolor set with me and did something a little different,” he said. “I’m usually detailed and slow in how I paint. But I wanted to try and knock out more watercolor sketches about every other day from the places we had seen.” Using photos he’d taken during the river cruise day trips, Costilow worked on the watercolors during travel time. “There was just so much material on this trip,” he said. “To complete them all, it will take some time.” How long it takes, however, is less important to Costilow than his chosen medium. “Back in New Orleans, I did watercolors because that was all we could do in school — it’s all I had ever really done,” he said. “Some find watercolors very threatening, but I’ve always been very comfortable using them. I prefer watercolors to oil, and it’s a lot easier to clean up, too!”

About the Artist Walt Costilow has won awards locally from the Watercolor Society of Alabama and regionally from the Southern Watercolor Society. He is a Signature Member of the Watercolor Society of Alabama, and the Texas Watercolor Society. He is an Associate Member of the American Society of Aviation Artists, the Southern Watercolor Society, the Georgia Watercolor Society, the Missouri Watercolor Society, the Mississippi Watercolor Society, the Louisiana Watercolor Society and the American Watercolor Society. 2014-15 Exhibits include: the Mississippi Watercolor Society Grand National Exhibit, the Georgia Watercolor Society National Exhibit, the Texas Watercolor Society National Exhibit and the American Society of Aviation Artists International Exhibit.

A18 • August 2015

Vestavia Voice

Mayhem on the Mountain adds new challenges to CrossFit

(above) Chris Wade, former captain on the Clemson football team, works as an instructor at Forge Fitness in Vestavia. (left) Mayhem on the Mountain will combine typical CrossFit competition events with different elements, such as swimming. Photos by Olivia Burton.

By OLIVIA BURTON Mayhem on the Mountain, hosted by Forge Fitness at Oak Mountain State Park on August 8 and 9, promises to challenge the athletic versatility of competitors by adding new elements to the typical CrossFit competition. The incorporation of swimming makes Mayhem on the Mountain stand out from other CrossFit competitions in the Birmingham area, according to Forge Fitness event organizer Kasey

Strickland. “It’s something you see in triathlons, but not typically in a CrossFit competition,” she said. Participants in Mayhem on the Mountain will compete in events on a CrossFit rig as well as in swimming events in Oak Mountain’s main lake. The individual competition will take place on Saturday, August 8 and the team competition will take place on Sunday, August 9. Each competition will include four different workout events.

“Most individuals who do CrossFit have a bit of a competitive edge on them, so competing is a great way to see how their work has paid off,” said Strickland. Mens Rx, Womens Rx, Mens Scaled, Womens Scaled, Mens Masters and Womens Masters divisions will be offered, according to the event’s website. Registration will take place from 7 a.m.-8 a.m. each day. Preregistration through the event’s website is mandatory and will remain

open until the day of the event. “This is a great testimony of someone who’s truly athletic,” said Rich Pennino, who opened Forge Fitness in July 2013. “In this event you’re going to see people compete in many different types of events: gymnastics, Olympic lifting, swimming, and running. This is the kind of event where you get to see the versatility of athletes.” CrossFit is a general fitness regimen with more than 11,000 affiliated gyms worldwide. Participants follow a

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regimen of “constantly varied functional movements performed at high intensity in a communal environment” in order to achieve health and fitness, according to the official CrossFit website. For more information or to preregister for the event, visit forgevestavia. com/mayhem or find the event on Facebook. Scan the QR code to watch the promotional video.

August 2015 • A19

VestaviaVoice.com

Urban Purpose reaches out to the community By DANNI ZHOU Two hundred participants waited to receive bib numbers. Above, the “Urban Purpose Challenge” banner blew in the summer breeze. As the huddle around the 5K starting line multiplied in size, Jim McFarland, Mark Jenkins and the volunteer staff prepared to launch the first Urban Purpose 5K. Approximately $20,000 was raised, setting a high bar for the following years. Urban Purpose, established in 2010 by Jim McFarland and business partner Mark Jenkins, is a nonprofit organization providing services for people recovering from drug and/or alcohol addiction, seeking employment and health services, and overall trying to set their lives on the right path. On August 29, the ministry will host the third annual Urban Purpose Challenge at Shades Mountain Baptist Church. All donations and proceeds will be used toward the services. The event includes the 5K race, the Kid’s Mess Fest and the newly added Team WOD Competition. Many volunteers will assist in running the event, including close friends and contributors Felicia Dewing, Kelly Olcott and Chris Wade. The primary focus of Urban Purpose revolves around producing a positive difference in people’s lives. “The goal is to be efficient in helping people,” McFarland said. One person in particular who is familiar with the services of Urban

Urban Purpose Challenge Saturday, August 29 Shades Mountain Baptist Church Early sign up: July 13 - Aug. 21 $35 for individuals $200 for teams Late sign up: August 22-29 $40 for individuals $220 for teams www.urbanpurpose.org

On August 29, Shades Mountain Baptist Church will host the third annual Urban Purpose Challenge. Photo courtesy of Jim McFarland.

Purpose is Wilkes Poteete. “I came to Birmingham a year and a half ago [from Adams, Alabama] after spending quite some time in addiction and checked into a yearlong rehab and recovery center,” Poteete said. “Jim and Mark showed up one

day to introduce themselves and the ministry. They began to visit often and encouraged me as I went through the program.” After rehab, McFarland and Jenkins aided Poteete in ﬁnding a job and rerouting his life for the better.

“Not a lot of people understand the obstacles a recovering addict faces, let alone want to try and empathize with the problems we face trying to get our feet back on the ground,” Poteete said. Now, Poteete is on the path toward transforming the job he currently

holds into a lifelong career. “Right now I am taking it one day at a time, [but] I am excited about what the future holds for me,” he said. In his vision of the future, Poteete aspires to become ﬁnancially stable and hopes to one day have a family of his own.

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A20 • August 2015

Vestavia Voice

Telling Bronner’s story By DANNI ZHOU The dragonflies darting around her son’s grave kept catching Sherri Burgess’s attention. “After Bronner went to Heaven, I kept seeing baby blue dragonflies,” she says. “I first noticed them at his grave, but then I kept seeing them.” As the pattern continued, she researched and discovered the dragonflies were called blue dashers. From that point on, the blue dashers always reminded her of Bronner because of their bright color. When she learned that dragonflies begin their lives in the water and follow a life cycle similar to metamorphosis, the blue dashers had even more significance. Two-year-old Bronner passed away on Jan. 19, 2008, after an accidental fall led to him drowning in the family pool. “God wanted me to know that Bronner’s life didn’t end that night in the water; it began,” Burgess said. In the midst of grieving the loss of her son, Burgess began gathering ideas for a memoir. “It wasn’t a decision [to write the memoir]. It was a call,” Burgess said. “I believe it is my life’s purpose.” Burgess’s memoir, Bronner, primarily reflects the events following her son’s death and her belief that Bronner’s purpose was to point people to God. It also tells her personal story of coming to terms with and learning from her family’s tragedy. “The beginning of the book paints a picture of our lives with Bronner and then goes into detail of exactly what happened and how we all felt, but then there’s a shift, sorting it all out. That’s the part I really want people to get. Everything [God] taught me, the why of it all, is hashed out in the book,” Burgess said. Burgess said Bronner’s death “felt like a crucifixion” to her family. Shades Mountain Baptist Church pastor and close family friend Danny Wood remembers that terrible day. “I was there at the hospital with Sherri and our friend Michael Adler that night when Bronner

After her two-year-old son Bronner passed away, Sherri Burgess leaned on her family, friends and Shades Mountain Baptist Church community to recover and write a memoir about the experience. Photo by Keith McCoy.

was rushed to the emergency room. Rick [Burgess] was on his way from Tennessee. The way he comforted his wife when he arrived and the strength he had was incredible. I remember when he went into the room where Bronner was with the doctors and nurses, he asked if he could pray and joined hands with everyone,” Wood said. Though writing the memoir weighed heavily on Burgess at times, she continued to move forward, chapter by chapter. Bronner was completed five

years later and the publication date is soon to be set. With the completion of the book, Burgess feels as though a chapter of her life has closed as well. “I foresee a future in which my family is whole again,” she said. “I’m separated from Bronner’s physical presence right now, but I won’t always be.” From the first outline to final edits, Burgess said her husband Rick Burgess was her greatest supporter in composing the memoir.

“He [would] read each chapter as I finished it and would always say, ‘I can’t wait for this to come out; there are so many people who need this.’ He loves it,” she said. Support from her four other children, friends and Shades Mountain Baptist Church also enabled Burgess to complete the emotional process of writing Bronner. Birmingham-based New Hope Publishers will publish the memoir in summer 2016.

Handmade. Fair Trade. Fancy.

August 2015 • A21

VestaviaVoice.com

Lessons in life’s classroom By KATIE TURPEN Vestavia Hills resident Noelle Ward made a key observation while managing more than 100 employees. “I realized those who excelled and were happiest had exceptional communication skills. Yet, younger employees were lacking these essential skills,” Ward said. “As a mom, I saw a need to groom social competence at a very early age.” After hosting focus groups and getting feedback from parents and students, she created Life Labs with a goal to improve the work pool in Vestavia, Homewood and Hoover. Life Labs are series of workshops for sixth-grade students where they learn various life skills that aren’t addressed in the school classroom. “It’s a fun and memorable way to equip children with the communication skills they need to be successful in life,” Ward said. Ward emphasizes the classes’ scope goes beyond simple etiquette. “We do address manners, but it’s more than just that,” Ward said. “It’s about how do you even start a conversation with somebody you don’t know, what do you say when an adult talks to you.” In the workshops, children play various role-playing games and engage in conversation activities. Life topics addressed include eye contact, firm handshakes, meaningful apologies, how to write thank you letters, and navigating difficult social situations with parents, teachers. “We teach behaviors that reflect self respect and respect of others:” Ward

Fall workshop For rising sixth and seventh graders Six Monday evenings Aug. 17-Sept. 28 (excludes Labor Day) 4-6:30 p.m. Homewood Public Library Cost: $150 Register at thelifelabs.com

Life Labs, started by Vestavia resident Noelle Ward teach children various communication and life skills through role playing activities and games. Photo courtesy of Noelle Ward.

said, “how to be the best babysitter, lawn mower or dog sitter that others seek; how to be a gracious guest; how to be invited back for sleepovers or trips to Six Flags.” During one lesson, Ward saw that many of the students didn’t know how to address envelopes. It’s these

observations along with positive feedback from parents that assure Ward these classes are necessary for young people. “Have you ever wondered why some kids are very comfortable taking to adults and seem to excel in all they do? They are well trained,”

Ward said. “Life Labs takes such key skills and integrates them into kids’ core beliefs.” Classes have previously been held at the Vestavia Hills Public Library. Upcoming fall workshops will be held at Homewood Public Library. Future classes will include topics such as

social media, texting and email etiquette per parents’ requests. “It’s about preparing them to be a good student and a good family member,” Ward said. For more information, visit thelifelabs.com or facebook.com/ thelifelabs.

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A22 • August 2015

Vestavia Voice

MASCOT

CONTINUED from page A1 the mascot, many are wondering what’s next. Superintendent Sheila Phillips said her decision came after meeting with multiple community stakeholders, phone conversations and reading emails, articles and social media posts. The board unanimously approved her proposal to enter into an “aggressive” process with a professional firm to rebrand the mascot. “With any strong and progressive company or organization that must continually refresh its image to represent the direction it is going, to ensure that it reflects the future and does not lose its competitive edge, logos change,” said Phillips. “It doesn’t change who you are, it modifies how you are branded.” During the July 15 board meeting, several concerned students had questions about what this decision means for the upcoming school year and their involvement in selecting a new mascot. Phillips said the process of rebranding the mascot will involve stakeholders and focus groups, and definitely input from students. The process will also include studying other schools, colleges, universities and businesses that have been through the process. “In this community, our children, our students, our youth come first,” Phillips said. “Their voice matters, and all we do in this school system should and will be focused on them and their endeavors.” Phillips said they are still considering logistics for uniforms and other items with logos in the upcoming school year. While they will no longer endorse the purchase of anything with the Rebel mascot, she said they do not expect brand-new uniforms with the

During a July 15 meeting, the Board of Education voted to keep the VHHS Rebel name but announced they will begin the process of rebranding the Rebel mascot. Photo by Ron Burkett.

Rebel logo that have been bought to be immediately reordered. The process will occur in phases, and what exactly will happen during athletic games during the 2015-16 academic year remains to be seen. “Some things will be immediate, some things will take time,” Phillips said. “That part of the planning has yet to be discussed.” Vestavia resident and professor Darin White said the changing nature of the sports industry is reflected in Vestavia’s decision to rebrand. White is founder and coordinator of

the sports marketing program in the Brock School of Business at Samford University. “It’s actually very common for athletic programs to update their logos and brand marks,” said White. “The process is going to take researching and understanding fan culture, understanding what people in this community are proud of. In order to develop brand marks and logos that accurately communicate who they are, they have to ask, ‘What does the term ‘Rebel’ really mean?’” Phillips gave her answer to this

question during July’s board meeting. “In this community, a rebel is someone who breaks from the norm, who strives for excellence, who thinks beyond himself or herself and gives back to a purpose beyond themselves,” said Phillips. “A Vestavia Hills Rebel represents a spirit of community, philanthropy and the highest standards. All of these things give us what we call ‘The Rebel Edge.’” For Stone Brooks, being a Rebel means honoring tradition. He’s played football for Vestavia since second grade and couldn’t be prouder to step

out on the field in his Rebel uniform with fellow classmates. He said while the outcome was not entirely what he wanted, he respected the board’s decision. “While we wanted no change at all, we are still glad to be called the Rebels,” he said. “I hope to stay involved in choosing the new mascot.” VHHS student Stanton Webb said that it will be a difficult transition. “It’s not going to diminish the program, but it’s taking away a part of what it is,” Webb said. Resident Stephen Craft was pleased with the board’s decision. “I think this is a positive step forward,” he said. Olivia Brooks, a 2015 VHHS graduate and former member of the We the People team, is in support of a mascot change. “I want a mascot that reflects the excellence, acceptance and character that is so strong in our student body,” Olivia Brooks said. “I don’t think that any tradition is more important than people’s feelings.” Defining the term Rebel also means examining the history of VHHS. William T. Clark became the first superintendent of the Vestavia Hills school system in 1970. At the time, the school system had an enrollment of around 2,500 students and only two existing school buildings: Vestavia Hills Elementary School and Vestavia Hills Junior High School. In building a new high school, Clark was faced with the issue of whether seniors at Berry High School could remain there through graduation. The new high school was completed and opened in 1972 on property given by the Pizitz family. 1976 VHHS graduate Dean Paugh was a member of the high school’s first state championship wrestling team and has several children in the school system. He was part of one of the first student groups that selected

August 2015 • A23

VestaviaVoice.com the Rebel name and mascot. Paugh said each class got to vote on the mascot and for them at the time, it symbolized a healthy rebellion from another school. “It was simply an extension of who we were,” said Paugh. “It did not in our hearts, then or now, represent the shameful times of slavery or the racial issues of the day. The Rebel name and the Rebel mascot should remain the same. I am disappointed by the decision to change it, but I think we will all move on from this.” The issue of the actual mascot was first brought to the attention of the school system in 2000. At that time, the Board of Education voted to take no action. Through the debate, those against keeping the Rebel mascot felt that it should be changed to represent something that did not symbolize a tragic time in the past. A group of residents, parents and alumni created a website, vestaviamascotforall. com, calling for a more inclusive mascot. “Getting rid of ‘Rebels’ and the dated and emotionally loaded imagery is a way for us to embrace our future rather than our past,” resident Susan Crow said. Those for keeping the mascot felt that it represented tradition. Many community members wore T-shirts that read “Once a Rebel, Always a Rebel,” at the community forum and called board meeting. Leading up to the meetings, 1985 VHHS graduate Roger Harris sold “Support our Rebels” yard signs and another resident sold bows to attach to mailboxes. Former Rebel Man Calvin Wright, who attended VHHS from 2009 to 2012, feels there are bigger issues at hand. “This mascot shouldn’t really be an issue at all,” Wright said. “This city and this school system stand for so much more than that.” Phillips stated while “this debate has brought out the best in most and the worst in some,” she hopes the community will unite together as the rebranding process moves forward. “My hope and belief is that the goodness within us will prevail as we work to heal from the divisiveness we have witnessed,” said Phillips. “We will regain our unity. If someone wants to make an example of this school system and community, let it be that.”

CAHABA HEIGHTS

CONTINUED from page A1 Planning and Zoning Commission meeting, Hydinger withdrew his application for the proposed complex with plans to go back to the drawing board. Abby Brady, who has lived in Cahaba Heights for 12 years, believes walkability is a key component of the community. “I think there is a misconception that this community does not want change,” said Abby Brady. “We do want growth and to evolve into the beautiful, walkable village that has been envisioned for years. This is simply not the right development for this space.” Resident Julie Crigler hopes that community members will continue to stay involved as future developments are proposed in the area. “We are passionate about finding something that fits into the nature of our city,” Crigler said. In other development news, a portion of a road as well as the reconstruction of parking places near the elementary school in Cahaba Heights is planned to be complete by the start of school this month. City Engineer Christopher Brady said Phase 1A of the Cahaba Heights road project includes about 300 feet of roadway and 10 on-street shared parking spots near the elementary school. “These are shared for school use, baseball field use and the new office building being constructed at the corner,” said Brady. Also included in the project are a new access drive from the elementary school parking lot and reconstruction of about 39 parking spaces in the school’s lot in front of the school. Brady said this is a net gain of 14 spaces on school property. Preliminary work began in early July, and it is anticipated this portion of the project will be complete on or around Aug. 7. Vestavia Hills Elementary Cahaba Heights Principal Kay Cooper stated she did not expect the work to interfere with

Construction of Phase 1A of the Cahaba Heights road project is set to be finished by the start of school this month. Photo by Jordan Hays.

school activities since it is anticipated to be complete before the school year begins. Last August, the City Council approved the agreement with Sain Associates for the new roadway. The scope of the entire Cahaba Heights road project includes grading and storm drainage installation, underground utilities and construction of up to 850 feet of asphalt roadway with curb and gutters and paint striping. “There will be tangible benefits to this project such as property and sales tax,” said City Manager Jeff Downes. Downes said the project is part of a supplement to the Cahaba Heights Village Plan. The plan calls for the addition of on-street parking with adjacent sidewalks as well as

creating safer ways to walk and bike to and from the elementary school. In January, the Planning and Zoning Commission voted to adopt and approve the Cahaba Heights Village Plan to supplement the Cahaba Heights Community Plan in the planning and development of the Dolly Ridge Road/Cahaba Heights Road/Oakview Lane areas of Cahaba Heights. “There is no timeline identified yet for the later phases. The Phase 1B portion is needed to allow more parking and better access to the baseball field area and the rear delivery area to the school,” said Brady. To view the updated Cahaba Heights Village plan, visit vhal.org.

SECTION

Schoolhouse B6 Sports B10 Real Estate B13 Calendar B14

AUGUST 2015

Preparing for game day

Brian Davis juggles roles as city employee, SEC official

By CHRIS GRIESEDIECK Super Bowl champion Terry Bradshaw once said, “When you’ve got something to prove, there’s nothing greater than a challenge.” Brian Davis, a Vestavia Hills employee, is faced with the challenge of balancing two demanding jobs. Davis, who likes to keep busy, has worked for the city of Vestavia Hills for 14 years. In 2012, he moved from his position of parks and recreation director to become the public services director. According to Davis, the major responsibilities of the Public Services Department are streets and sanitation. As director, he oversees the departments that make up public services, such as parks and recreation, engineering and public works. Over the years, while focusing on his regular job in Vestavia Hills, he has also worked hard at being a football official. Davis loved sports from a young age, prompting him to pursue a career as an official. “It involved me having a love for athletics when I was growing up and wanting to be involved with it,” he said. Davis will join an elite club of officials this fall, working as an independent contractor for the Southeastern Conference. Davis’ journey to the SEC began in his college years, where he started officiating flag football. He climbed his way up, working youth and middle school games right after college. “I then moved up to high school games,” Davis said. “I attended some camps with the Gulf South Conference in 2002 and 2004 and was hired by the Gulf South Conference in

Brian Davis, a Vestavia Hills employee, will begin working as an independent contractor for the Southeastern Conference this fall. Photo by Keith McCoy.

2004.” After five years in the GSC, Davis moved to the Ohio Valley Conference, and in 2014 he worked in the American Athletic Conference.

SEC Coordinator of Football Officials Steve Shaw has been working with Davis over the past few years. Shaw said that the combination of Davis’

officiating skills and high character allowed him to receive his position in the SEC.

See BRIAN DAVIS | page B9

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B2 • August 2015

Back to School

Vestavia Voice

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VestaviaVoice.com

August 2015 • B3

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B4 • August 2015

Back to School

Setting a course

Vestavia Voice

Superintendent reflects on first year and looks to the future

By KATIE TURPEN One thing Dr. Sheila Phillips has learned during her first year as Vestavia Hills superintendent is what happens when a community makes a commitment. “I learned at a deeper level the commitment to our work and students by our entire community — our administrators, teachers, parents, and community as a whole,” she said. “As a new superintendent, I’ve also learned a great deal about my ability to handle my responsibility as an advocate for students and the school system and the opportunities that have come to speak on our behalf.” In May 2014, the Vestavia Hills Board of Education named Phillips as its new superintendent. She has had an eventful first year, having been involved in a variety of initiatives including Help the Hills, an effort between the school system and the community to educate students on alcohol and drug addiction. “I think the greatest challenge I have faced is making certain that every day I have gone about my work and I’ve made decisions in a manner that has kept focus on our students, teaching and learning, and setting a course that will ensure collectively that we are providing the very best education possible for our children,” she said. During a May Board of Education meeting, Phillips gave her end of the year superintendent report. Her goals for the Vestavia Hills school system included focusing on continuous improvement and creating a unified learning community through relationships and partnerships. “I am most excited about putting our plans into action and highlighting the successes of our students and teachers,” Phillips said. “It is an absolute honor to be able to support the incredible work done daily in and out of the classroom.” A big part of Phillips’ first year was continuing

Sheila Phillips stands in the front hallway of Vestavia Hills High School. Photo by Keith McCoy.

the strategic planning process, an overarching plan for the school system designed by various committees of educators. “We have recently approved our new mission statement and strategic plan,” she said. “The work we have done will chart the course for all decisions we make for the next 3-5 years to make certain our students are ‘learning without limits.’” Others are taking positive notice of Phillip’s leadership. The Board of Education discussed Phillips’ performance during her first year as superintendent at their June 11 meeting. She was evaluated using a tool from the Alabama

Association of School Boards, which got feedback from the school board members, administrators and community stakeholders. This was the first year AASB provided this tool, and it was used as an evaluation for a handful of other superintendents this year. Phillips was ranked above average in the evaluation, and AASB director of leadership development Susan Salter said Phillips’ evaluation was the highest of all the superintendent evaluations this year. “The ratings from the board members averaged a 4.6. The board was very pleased with Sheila’s performance,” Salter said.

The board members ranked Phillips on a scale of 1 to 5 based on her performance as CEO of the school board, educational leadership of the schools, personnel management, community relations, management of pupil personnel services, professional development and leadership, technology management and financial management. Phillips is excited about what lies ahead for the school system. “Extraordinary things are happening in our schools,” Phillips said. “I am humbled to be a part of it.”

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VestaviaVoice.com

Back to School

August 2015 • B5

Kick off the school year with Back 2 School in the Hills By SYDNEY CROMWELL The Back 2 School in the Hills event is coming back for its second year on Friday, Aug. 1mira4. The free festival will be located at Oliver Square, 3246 Cahaba Heights Road. Lisa Christopher, the event coordinator, said Back 2 School will feature rides, inflatables and games for children and adults, as well as a mechanical bull and local business vendors providing food and giveaways. A DJ will provide music for the event and a family-friendly movie will be played at dusk. “It’s just celebrating heading back to school. School is just such a huge importance in our city,” Christopher said. Last year’s event drew between 800 and 900 people, and Christopher said the community excitement prompted the Vestavia Hills Chamber of Commerce to bring Back 2 School back this year. While it is focused on the community of Cahaba Heights, Christopher said everyone is welcome to attend and bring lawn chairs or a picnic.

After seeing a parking shortage last year, the chamber is working with the city’s parks and recreation department to provide a shuttle to and from certain parking lots. Christopher said the details of the shuttle program are still being worked out. After planning and attending the inaugural Back 2 School event, Christopher is excited about returning. Last year she joined other Chamber employees on the popular “Wipeout” inflatable. Though she admitted she was “terrible” at avoiding the obstacles on the blow-up game, Christopher loved the experience. “I don’t recall laughing that hard in a long, long time. It was just a lot of fun,” Christopher said. For more information about Back 2 School in the Hills, contact Christopher at lisac@vestaviahills.org. Children play on the “Wipeout” inflatable at the 2014 Back 2 School in the Hills. Photo courtesy of Vestavia Hills Chamber of Commerce.

Alabama tax-free weekend to be held Aug. 7-9 By OLIVIA BURTON Alabama’s annual Back-to-School tax-free weekend will take place from 12:01 a.m. on Friday, Aug. 7, to midnight on Sunday, Aug. 9. Mountain Brook, Hoover, Vestavia, Homewood and Shelby County will be participating in the sales tax holiday. In addition to the sales tax exemption, many stores will feature special sales over the weekend. According to Vestavia Chamber of Commerce President Karen Odle, even some stores whose items are

not exempt under the law will offer discounts over the weekend. “Parents use the tax-free weekend to stock up and get ready to go back to school, since school starts about two weeks afterwards,” said Odle. General-use apparel such as dresses, jackets, pants, shirts, shoes and underwear will be exempt from Alabama’s sales tax over the weekend. All clothing items must be under $100. Clothing accessories such as jewelry, wallets and watches, protective equipment such as tool belts and hard hats, and sport or recreational equipment

such as goggles and shoulder pads will not be exempt from sales tax. The exemption also applies to computers and other electronics under $750, school supplies under $50, educational books under $30 and required textbooks between $30 and $50. Furniture, video games, magazines and newspapers will remain taxable. “We encourage all of our residents to shop local,” said Odle. “This is a great time to support our local businesses.” For more information, visit revenue. alabama.gov/salestax/salestaxhol.cfm.

At clothing stores such as Mia Moda at the Park South Shopping Center on Montgomery Highway, parents will be able to buy back-to-school clothing for their kids at a discounted price over the tax-free weekend. Photo by Olivia Burton.

B6 • August 2015

Vestavia Voice

School House Pizitz majorettes to host twirling clinic The Pizitz Middle School majorettes will be hosting a twirling clinic for girls in kindergarten through fifth grade. Participants will learn basic baton skills and a short routine. The clinic will be held in the middle school gym for five days and will end with a performance at a Pizitz football home game. The dates for the clinic are Aug. 31, Sept. 1, 2, 8 and 9 from 3:30-5 p.m. Participants will perform at the game on Thursday, September 10. Registration will be held throughout the summer with a deadline of Friday, August 14. Forms can be picked up and returned to the Pizitz Middle

School office. The registration fee is $75, which includes a baton, T-shirt, instruction and participant’s admission to the game for the performance. For more information, contact majorette sponsor Kelci McCaleb at mccalebka@ vestavia.k12.al.us. The Pizitz Middle School majorettes will be hosting a twirling clinic for girls in kindergarten through fifth grade. Participants will learn basic baton skills and a short routine. Photo courtesy of Carla Gilroy.

VHHS student awarded Kiwanis Club scholarship By JORDAN HAYS Juliana Kirby, senior at Vestavia Hills High School, was awarded a $1,000 scholarship by the Vestavia-Hoover Kiwanis Club. Kiwanis is a civic club with a focus on programs, activities and charities for children, according to Stephen Porterfield, Kiwanis Club liaison to Vestavia Hills High School.

In her application, Kirby said she travels with her church to underdeveloped areas each summer to lead vacation Bible schools for churches that lack the resources to hold one themselves. Kirby also visits the First Light and Lighthouse shelters in Birmingham to prepare and serve dinner with her church. “We were looking for a good student who had extracurricular activities, including community

Juliana Kirby, senior at Vestavia Hills High School, was awarded a $1,000 scholarship by the Vestavia-Hoover Kiwanis Club. Photo courtesy of Stephen Porterfield.

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involvement that involves supporting less fortunate children,” Porterfield said. “Her focus on mission trips involving children and working at local shelters in Birmingham that focuses on children and homeless families with children [made her stand out among the applicants]” Kirby plans to attend Auburn University and major in biomedical sciences.

VestaviaVoice.com

August 2015 • B7

VHHS senior receives scholarship

(From left to right) Margery Whatley, Chapter T STAR Scholarship chairman; Deborah Van Camp; Jennifer Kopf, Chapter T president.

The prestigious P.E.O. STAR Scholarship was recently presented to VHHS senior Deborah Van Camp. Deborah is the daughter of Steven and Julia Van Camp and was recommended for this scholarship by P.E.O. Chapter T, Birmingham. Van Camp will attend the University of Florida in the fall, where she plans to study animal sciences with a focus on equine studies. The P.E.O. STAR Scholarship is a $2,500 scholarship based on excellence in leadership, extracurricular activities, community service, academics and potential for future success. The program is open to young women who are citizens or legal permanent residents of the United States or Canada and who are graduating high school seniors at the time of application. A student must be recommended by a P.E.O. chapter.

The P.E.O. Sisterhood, founded January 21, 1869, at Iowa Wesleyan College, Mount Pleasant, Iowa, is an international philanthropic and educational organization that promotes increased educational opportunities for women. There are nearly 6,000 local chapters in the United States and Canada with almost 250,000 initiated members. The P.E.O. Sisterhood has given over $250 million in financial assistance to more than 95,000 recipients. The P.E.O. Sisterhood also owns Cottey College, a fully accredited, private liberal arts and sciences college for women, with two-year and selected four-year programs, located in Nevada, Missouri. For additional information on the P.E.O. STAR Scholarship, please contact Jennifer Kopf at kopf.jennifer@gmail.com or visit peointernational.org.

LPMS students place in local contests Several Liberty Park Middle School students placed first, second or third in statewide and local contests. Kellyn Murch, a sixth-grade student, placed second in the Homewood Public Library poetry contest. This contest was open to sixththrough 12th-grade students, and there were more than 165 entries. In the first Alabama Virtual Library Council video contest, sixth-grade students MaKayla Leak, Eigen Escario and Elena Hamrick placed first with their story of how they used AVL. Students Lexi Green and Soleil Ruggiero placed second, and Kayla Miller and Marie Harris placed in the top nine. The contest was

open to patrons of all ages throughout the state of Alabama. Judges evaluated the videos on creativity and quality of video. The top nine videos were posted to the Alabama Virtual Library’s Facebook page for the public’s vote. Matthew Coleman placed second at the state level in the Letters About Literature Contest, and Ella Russell placed third at the state level. This contest was sponsored by the Center for the Book in the Library of Congress and the Affiliate State Center for the Book organizations. Both students will receive gift cards and will be recognized at a reception at the University of Alabama. -Submitted by Linda Rummell

VHHS grad named representative to International Criminal Court Vestavia Hills High School graduate Carrie Anne Comer was recently named Permanent Representative to the International Criminal Court in The Hague, Netherlands. She was a valedictorian of the class of 2000 at VHHS. She graduated Birmingham-Southern College Magna Cum Laude in 2004. She then studied abroad at The Universitie de Toulouse in Toulouse, France. Comer recently graduated from Oxford University in Oxford, England where she received

her degree in international human rights law. Since being named as Permanent Representative to the ICC she has been assigned cases dealing with issues in Yarevan, Armenia, Conakry, Guinea, Mexico and Guatemala. On June 3, Comer delivered the address on Public International Law, to the European Union’s Working Group in Brussels, Belgium. She is the daughter of Tom Comer of Vestavia Hills. -Submitted by Tom Comer

B8 • August 2015

Vestavia Voice

Spring Fling fundraiser at Primrose School at Liberty Park brings community together

This year’s spring fling fundraiser at Primrose School at Liberty Park raised $1,779, which will be split between Glenwood Autism and Behavioral Health Center. Photo courtesy of Margaret O’Bryant.

VHHS senior earns art award Bradley Copeland, a graduate of Vestavia Hills High School, is this year’s recipient of the Vestavia Hills Art Association’s Art Achievement Award. She is the daughter of Jeffrey and Ashley Copeland of Vestavia Hills. Copeland was selected by professional artists and art educators of the Vestavia Hills Art Association’s scholarship committee. Her work was viewed during the Vestavia Hills High School Student Art Show. The VHAA Art Achievement Award is an annual award of $200 presented on the merits of the student’s apparent artistic talent, academic standing and how the award will be applied. This year the award included an additional $100 gift

certificate from Alabama Art Supply and $50 from Forstall Art Center. The award is presented to a graduating senior who is continuing his or her education in the visual arts, art education or a related field. Copeland will attend Auburn University this fall where she will study interior design and minor in studio arts. -Submitted by Jeffrey Copeland

Bradley Copeland was recently awarded the Vestavia Hills Art Association’s Art Achievement Award. Photo courtesy of Jeffrey Copeland.

Primrose School at Liberty Park recently held a Spring Fling fundraiser to help raise awareness and money for worthwhile causes. This year’s event raised $1,779, which will be split between Glenwood Autism and Behavioral Health Center and the Primrose Children’s Foundation, a nonprofit organization that supports organizations that focus on the needs of children and families. “At Primrose, we’re committed to teaching our students about helping others and giving without expectation year round,” said Margaret O’Bryant, franchise owner of Primrose School at Liberty Park. “Not only were we able to raise funds for a great community cause, but our Spring Fling event also gave local families an opportunity to come together in a fun and exciting way.” The Liberty Park Tazikis’s also supported the

event as the sole food sponsor, providing dinner for all the Primrose families that purchased tickets. The evening included games, music and face painting. Funds raised for the Primrose Children’s Foundation will be used to support Reach Out and Read and Save the Children. Reach Out and Read donations will be used by the organization’s network of local physicians who provide books to patients to improve literacy. Save the Children donations will be used to reach children who are in the greatest need in poor rural communities throughout the country. Founded in 1982, Primrose Schools provides a premier early education and care experience in more than 285 schools in 23 states. For more information, visit primroseschools. com.

August 2015 • B9

VestaviaVoice.com BRIAN DAVIS

CONTINUED from page B1 “He’s going to work this year as a center judge, which is a new position. He officiates the game very well and he’s a man of high character. He’s a strong Christian and is an upstanding person in his community,” Shaw said. As the new center judge, Davis will set up opposite the referee in the offensive backfield and will assist with spotting the ball and substitutions. Davis said that his primary responsibility is to get the ball ready for play. Because Davis attended the University of Alabama, he is not allowed to officiate any Alabama games. Similarly, if an official has a child who attends an SEC school, he cannot officiate that school’s games. Davis is allowed to officiate any SEC school’s games besides Alabama’s. Whether they are center judges or referees, SEC officials do a lot more than just show up to games on Saturday. Davis said that it all starts with physical training. Getting in shape is an important part of the summer routine for him and the other refs. SEC officials prepare for the fall season by participating in a timed run in July. Just like a team tryout, those who don’t make it in the designated running time will be cut. “We have to be physically fit,” Davis explained. “The SEC wants to make sure you’re in good shape to stay out on the field for the entire game. Game day is a long day.” In games, most college players play on offense or defense. Referees are a one-platoon operation. Unlike players, they cannot take water breaks and sit on the benches during timeouts. Officials are also moving as the play shifts downfield. They always have to be alert and on their feet, ready to make a call. Davis also performs mental training, such as tests, to prepare for upcoming SEC games. “We have done rules tests for 15 weeks now, and that is just the offseason,” Davis said. “Once the season begins, we all have

certain jobs during the week, such as finding a restaurant for meals and scheduling, like renting a car. This has to do with weekly travel.” Davis said that the center judge is a contracted position, where the officials are placed on crews of eight men on the field. There are replay men who serve as communicators. Each one is assigned games and then they work those games. While it is not a full-time position, fulfilling his role as center judge requires a major time commitment behind the scenes. According to Davis, referees typically need to be in the city where the game is being played by dinnertime on Friday. Davis has learned throughout the years that the officiating crew is a team working together for the same purpose. That teamwork applies to being a referee and in the full-time job he has with the Vestavia Hills public services department. “Being a part of that team that works together translates into being a team player in your day-to-day job,” he said. “Time management is another huge part of it. The leadership aspect of stepping up and knowing your role in the organization and how to get the most out of your teammates.” From traveling weekly to taking rules tests to getting in shape, being a part of the officiating crew is a unique opportunity for Davis that involves much more than an appearance on the sidelines. Davis said that the officiating is a side job that takes lots of time and travel, as well as lots of studying. “People think that we just show up to officiate games. It’s more than that. We’re studying video every week. We’re preparing for the season by looking at rule studies. It’s also really hot out there in the South.” As Davis works hard to balance his jobs, he remembers that there is opportunity in every difficulty. He is ready for the challenge.

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B10 â&#x20AC;˘ August 2015

Vestavia Voice

Sports 2015 Season Preview

2015SCHEDULE Date 8/21 8/28 9/4 9/11 9/18 9/25 10/1 10/9 10/16 10/23 10/29 Wide receiver Jacobi Hudson will add strength to the Rebel offense. Photos by Keith McCoy.

Opponent Jamboree Homewood Oak Mountain * Hewitt-Trussville * Mountain Brook * Oxford Thompson * Spain Park * Hoover * Tuscaloosa County* Shades Valley

2014 NA 17-7 7-14 14-3 11-14 14-35 21-14 13-14 0-42 7-14 21-26

All games start at 7 PM unless noted * Region game Home games are highlighted

W L W L L W L L L L

VestaviaVoice.com

August 2015 • B11

Merrill replaces veteran Braasch as defensive coordinator Vestavia enters its second season as a member of Class 7A, Region 3. Last year, the Rebels went 3-7 and missed the playoffs. But, this region is incredibly difficult. Schools such as Mountain Brook, Spain Park, Oak Mountain and, of course, Hoover are what make it the toughest region in Alabama football. “It’s been referred to as the SEC region of Alabama high school football,” said head coach Buddy Anderson. “With every opponent, it’s like playing an SEC game every Friday night, where anybody can beat anybody. You better be ready to strap it on every week.” Vestavia even faces tough competition in their non-region games. The Rebels will play Homewood and Oxford again, which both went to the playoffs last season in Class 6A. The Rebels open the 2015 campaign at Homewood, whom they beat at home to start last season, 17-7. Game two on the schedule is a home contest against Oak Mountain. Vestavia lost to the Eagles last year by seven points. “We have high expectations every year. The team chemistry will be critical. Last year we lost five games by a touchdown or less. We’ve got to take care of the little things and see how well things mesh together,” said Anderson. One big change for the Rebels is the recent retiring of defensive coordinator Peter Braasch. He was with Anderson for 35 years. Anderson said that the Rebels’ biggest keys to success this season,

Vestavia running back Ray Murphy embraces contact in the spring game against Chelsea.

besides adjusting to a new defensive coordinator, are staying healthy and building team chemistry. “We have to improve as a team every day. Hopefully we stay away from injuries. Health is always a big part of it.”

Offense

Vestavia’s quarterback is senior Brett Jones. Jones started the final three games last year and did a good job, according to Anderson. “He’s got to improve every week. His experience from last year will be valuable.” Also returning is senior running back Walker Minor. If Minor were to

get injured, the Rebels will have solid backup options in junior RBs Toliver Chatwood and Ray Murphy. Senior Bo Norman is included in that mix as well. “We’re looking for all these guys to step up,” said Anderson. Next, Morgan Long will play fullback. The Rebels have experience at the wide receiver position, as seniors Remington Patterson and Josh Denney are both returning starters. Junior Mitchell Langley is also expected to play receiver. Anderson is looking to get some depth of offense from juniors Jacobi Hudson, Conner Rohling and Isaiah

Flowers, and senior Nathan Turner. Senior Davis Gurosky and junior Jeremiah Smith will be on the O-line. Anderson said his biggest concern is the offensive line. And for the whole team, just “getting the puzzle pieces together in the right places.”

Defense

The veteran Peter Braasch has retired and Chad Merrill, who previously coached Vestavia’s D-line, will take over as defensive coordinator. The good news for Merrill is that the Rebels have a lot of experience coming back on defense. Collegiate prospects Alex Robin and Clayton

Farris are expected to lead the D-line. Additionally, Anderson is looking for contributions out of the Edwards twins, James and Jacob. “We also need Stone Brooks and Prescott Gilbert to give us some extra depth there, as well as Walter Thomas,” he said. At DE will be Dillon Campbell and Michael Schroeder. Junior Ray Murphy and Emmanuel Johnson will also see time at end. The linebacker position looks to be in good hands. Steadman Gulley, who missed most of last year with an injury, started at LB as a sophomore. Seniors Sam Lawson and Nate Lewis are also linebackers, along with George Dazzio. Junior Ethan Guidry provides even more depth at linebacker. Strong safety Reid Adams has experience, and so does strong safety Jackson Ewing. Anderson is looking for depth out of senior Zach Meadows. Other key names include Alex Hall, Bo Norman and free safety Daniel Sims, plus Nolan Turner. The four corners are Levi Wiggins, Tucker Queen, Ford Waters and Garret Lee. Juniors Cooper Jones and Steven Thackerson are in the mix for the fullback spot.

Special Teams

There will be more than two guys battling for place-kicker, as Curry Howard, Jack Strong and Manraj Singh are all possibilities. Anderson expects them to battle it out. The punter is Curry Howard.

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B12 • August 2015

Last Chance to submit for

Vestavia Voice

Summer

FUN

Photo Contest

Winner recieves $50 gift card to Alabama Outdoors #VestaviaSummerFun To enter, email your photos in a jpeg format to contest@vestaviavoice.com. Only four photos are allowed per person. Winners will be announced in the September issue.

Category 1: Any summer fun photo Category 2: A summer fun photo displaying a copy of Vestavia Voice wherever you are

Deadline is August 9, 2015

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August 2015 â&#x20AC;˘ B13

VestaviaVoice.com

Vestavia Hills

1120 Winchester Cove

Real Estate Listings MLS #

Zip

Address

Status

Price

722575

35216

1120 Winchester Cove

New

$850,000

722838

35226

913 Mountain Branch Drive

New

$325,000

722837

35216

2110 Montreat Way, Unit C

New

$64,900

722779

35216

2012 Hickory Road

New

$382,500

722637

35216

1816 Canyon Lane

New

$314,900

722529

35243

3952 Overheights Drive

New

$209,900

722434

35243

2525 Brookwater Circle

New

$329,900

722421

35243

3153 Valley Park Drive

New

$265,000

722412

35216

2129 Pine Crest Drive

New

$249,900

722290

35226

108 Castlehill Drive

New

$269,900

722273

35216

1561 Woodridge Place

New

$1,175,000

722237

35216

1837 Glendmere Drive

New

$300,000

722729

35216

2525 Shades Crest Road

New

$900,000

722168

35216

2075 Montreat Circle, Unit 2075

New

$89,000

722164

35243

3200 Greendale Road

New

$125,000

722146

35243

2351 River Grand Drive

New

$380,000

722118

35243

156 West Green, Unit 156

New

$149,000

722060

35242

704 Reynolds Place

New

$499,900

722042

35243

2557 Old Oak Lane

New

$400,000

722018

35216

1780 Indian Hill Road

New

$275,000

2525 Shades Crest Road

Real estate listings provided by the Birmingham Association of Realtors on July 20. Visit birminghamrealtors.com.

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Printing and Business Services

B14 â&#x20AC;˘ August 2015

Vestavia Voice

Calendar Community Events Aug. 7: Artists Incorporated First Friday Reception. 4:30-8:30 p.m. Artists Incorporated. Visit artisitsincorporated.com. Aug. 11: Sixth-grade Open House. 5:30 p.m. Pizitz Middle School. Visit vestavia.k12.al.us. Aug. 13: Vestavia Hills First Day of School. Vestavia Schools. Visit vestavia.k12.al.us.

Aug. 14: Back 2 School in the Hills. 6:3010 p.m. Oliver Square, 3246 Cahaba Heights Road. Rides and inflatables for kids, tweens and teens. Visit vestaviahills.org.

Aug. 17: Seventh and Eighth-grade Open Houses. Seventh-grade 4:30 p.m. Eighthgrade 6 p.m. Pizitz Middle School. Visit vestavia.k12. al.us.

Aug. 14: VHUMC Boomer Dance Beach Party. 6-9 p.m. The cost is $25. Chevy 6 will provide music and Whiskers catfish will provide food. Email jfrazier@vhumc.org or call 769-0126.

Aug. 18: PTO Meeting and Open House. 5:30 p.m. Vestavia Hills Elementary School Liberty Park. Visit vestavia.k12.al.us. Aug. 20: General PTO Meeting/Parent

Vestavia Hills Library in the Forest 1221 Montgomery Highway 978-0155, vestavialibrary.org

Adults Thursdays: Sunrise Rotary Club Meeting. 6 a.m. Aug. 1: See Jane Write Conference. 9 a.m. Network for women writers, bloggers and entrepreneurs. Aug. 10: Birmingham Track Club Board Meeting. 6 p.m. Treehouse. Aug. 13: Civil War Roundtable. 6 p.m. Community Room.

Aug. 14: Concert in the Forest. 2, 6:30 p.m. Amphitheater. Aug. 20: NMRA Association. 6 p.m. Meeting of the National Model Railroad Association.

Teens Fridays: Open Gaming. 4 p.m. Enjoy games on the Wii, Wii U and Xbox 360. Aug. 5: Teen Art Group. 4 p.m. Make and share work with fellow teens.

Aug. 11: Monster Movie Fandom Tuesday. 4 p.m. Watch films that range from classics to modern day marvels. Aug. 12, 26: Teen Writing Group. 4 p.m. Teens can build writing skills and provide feedback. Aug. 18: Otaku Time. 4 p.m. The cafĂŠ will serve Japanese desserts and beverages. Aug. 25: Anime Night. 5:30 p.m. Anime night is back in full force.

Orientation. 5:30-7 p.m. Vestavia Hills Elementary School East. Visit vestavia.k12.al.us. Aug. 21: VHHS Varsity Football vs. Briarwood Christian School. 7 p.m. Vestavia Hills High School. Visit vestavia.k12.al.us. Aug. 29: Urban Purpose Challenge. 8 a.m.-8 p.m. Shades Mountain Baptist Church. Visit urbanpurpose.org.

Vestavia City Council Events Aug. 10: City Council Meeting. 5 p.m. Council Chamber, 513 Montgomery Highway. Call 978-0131. Aug. 13: Planning & Zoning Commission Meeting. 6-7 p.m. Council Chamber, 513 Montgomery Highway. Call 978-0184. Aug. 18: Parks & Recreation Board Meeting. 7 a.m. Vestavia Hills Civic Center. Call 978-0166. Aug. 20: Board of Zoning Adjustment. 6-7 p.m. Council Chamber, 513 Montgomery Highway. Call 978-0184. Aug. 24: City Council Meeting. 5 p.m. Council Chamber, 513 Montgomery Highway. Call 978-0131.

VestaviaVoice.com

August 2015 • B15

Calendar Vestavia Hills Chamber of Commerce Events Aug. 11: Chamber of Commerce Luncheon. 11:30 a.m.-1 p.m. Vestavia Country Club. Network with other Chamber members and hear speakers. Reserve spot by Aug. 7 at 4 p.m. Aug. 12: ROI Professional Networking.

7:30-8:30 a.m. Vestavia Hills Chamber of Commerce. Aug. 18: Business Development Committee Meeting. 8-9 a.m. Vestavia Hills Chamber of Commerce.

Area Events

Boiling N’ Bragging will kick of tailgating season at Otey’s Tavern on Aug. 15. Photo courtesy of Children’s of Alabama.

July 31-Aug. 2: Secret Stages. Friday 6-11 p.m., Saturday 11 a.m.-9 p.m., Sunday noon-6 p.m. A walking music festival in downtown Birmingham. $25 weekend passes. Visit secretstages.net. Aug. 1-8: Shrek the Musical. 7:309:30 p.m. Virginia Samford Theatre. The VST STARS present Shrek the Musical. Visit virginiasamfordtheatre.org. Aug. 2: Andy Grammer and American Authors with AJR. 7:30 p.m. Iron City, 513 22nd St. South. $22-$25. Visit ironcitybham.com.

Aug. 14: Grease. 7 p.m. Alabama Theatre. $8. Part of Alabama Theatre’s Summer Film Series. Visit alabamatheatre.com. Aug. 14: Art on the Rocks. 7-11 p.m. Birmingham Museum of Art. $15 for members, $25 for non-members. Visit artsbma.org. Aug. 14: KultureBall. 6:30-11 p.m. Sheraton Birmingham Grand Ballroom. Tickets are $99. Visit kultureball.com. Aug. 16: The Sound of Music. 2 p.m. Alabama Theatre. $8. Part of Alabama Theatre’s Summer Film Series. Visit alabamatheatre.com.

Aug. 6: Birmingham Art Crawl. 5-9 p.m. Downtown Birmingham, 113 22nd St. North. Free. A walking art gallery with artists, performers, food and fun. Visit birminghamartcrawl.com.

Aug. 19: Iron Cinema Presents Garden State. 7 p.m. Iron City, 513 22nd St. South. Free. Visit ironcitybham.com.

Aug. 8: Good Old War. 9 p.m. Saturn Birmingham, 200 41st St. South. $15 in advance, $17 day of show. Visit saturnbirmingham.com.

Aug. 22: Rock ‘n’ Run. 8 a.m. Homewood Central Park. The ‘70s-themed run will benefit IMPACT Family Counseling. Visit impactal.org.

Aug. 9: Auntie Mame. 2 p.m. Alabama Theatre. $8. Part of Alabama Theatre’s Summer Film Series. Visit alabamatheatre.com.

Aug. 22: Baby Steps Memorial 5K and 1-Mile Fun Run. 8 a.m. Tannehill Ironworks Historical State Park. Run allows grieving families and their friends to come together to remember lost loved ones. Visit ameliacenter.org.

Aug. 9: Christina Perri. 7 p.m. Iron City, 513 22nd St. South. Visit ironcitybham.com. Aug. 10: My Morning Jacket. 8 p.m. Birmingham Jefferson Convention Complex, 2100 Richard Arrington Jr. Blvd. North. $43. Visit mymorningjacket.com. Aug. 13: Pre-Code Film Festival. 6:308 p.m. Homewood Public Library. Pre-code film made in 1933 starring Barbara Stanwyck. Visit homewoodpubliclibrary.org.

Aug. 23: Southern Bridal Show. Noon-5 p.m. Birmingham Jefferson Convention Complex, 2100 Richard Arrington Jr. Blvd. North. Meet face-to-face with wedding professionals and find everything you need to create the wedding of your dreams. $15 at the door. Visit eliteevents.com. Aug. 28-30: Sidewalk Film Festival. Friday 8 p.m., Saturday 10 a.m., Sunday 10:30 a.m. Over 200 movies, parties, workshops, music, food and more. Visit sidewalkfest.com.