Vestavia Voice February 2015

Volume 2 | Issue 10 | February 2015

A lasting legacy

‘For the kids’

Legendary VHHS girls tennis coach Nancy Becker has been elected to the AHSAA Hall of Fame. Read more inside.

See page B10

Celebrating gifts

Vestavia Hills City Schools Foundation making classroom dreams a reality This month, Vestavia Hills United Methodist Church’s second annual women’s conference will feature Candice Moore as the speaker. Details inside.

See page A18

INSIDE Sponsors..............A4 City .......................A5 Business ..............A8 Food ....................A12

Community ........A20 School House.......B4 Sports ..................B10 Calendar ..............B14

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By KATIE TURPEN Walk into a local elementary classroom, and you’ll find students engrossed in research, swiping their fingers across iPad screens.

Gone are the days of paper book reports

VHCSF Executive Director Ashley Thompson and board members Alison Smith, Anita Turner, Buffie Hymer and Alissa Padgett stand in front of Vestavia Hills High School. Photo by Karim Shamsi-Basha.

and poster projects; students can now create multimedia presentations, applications and blogs using the latest technology.

Although they may not realize it now, these children are equipping themselves for a myriad of careers that lie ahead.

The Vestavia Hills City Schools Foundation (VHCSF) makes these innovations possible. The nonprofit organization works steadily behind the scenes to ensure students

See FOUNDATION | page A22

Bridging the gap New bridge expands McCallum Park

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

By SYDNEY CROMWELL McCallum Park is 31 acres of woodland and open field perfect for residents to relax, play sports or explore. Until January, however, only about five acres were regularly accessible to visitors.

Little Shades Creek cuts through the park, separating those five acres from land

See PARK | page A23

822-5955

1360 Montgomery Hwy Vestavia Hills

Funded by the Parks and Recreation Foundation, this 100-foot stone and wood bridge in McCallum Park was installed in January. The bridge opens up between 11 and 14 additional acres to visitors. Photo by Karim Shamsi-Basha.

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A2 • February 2015

Vestavia Voice

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February 2015 • A3

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A4 • February 2015

Vestavia Voice

About Us Photo of the Month

Please Support our Sponsors

Second graders at Vestavia Hills Elementary West celebrated immigration from the countries of their ancestors with a musical performances. Photo courtesy of Alice Elmore.

Editor’s Note By Rebecca Walden Love it or loathe it, Valluxury, a representation of entine’s Day season is once money better spent on someagain staring us in the face thing practical and lasting. (in case you hadn’t noticed My husband’s been slow to embrace this pragmatic the explosion of pink and red and all things chocolate-y at a view, though he’s beginning grocer near you). to come around.

He found it only slightly I’m a girly girl, and have always felt the thrill of being less baffling when I asked a certain someone’s sweethim to skip the box of Rusheart when a spray of expertly sell Stovers (not the heart arranged red roses arrived to shaped one, mind you, but Walden my workplace or appeared the rectangle one filled with with a flourish on the dining room table. nut and chewy varieties). I’ve made a pact Not to take anything away from those who with a fellow Vestavia mom to be bikini deign to acknowledge the day, dismissing beach body ready by June, and as anyone it as nothing more than a Hallmark holi- who’s seen me hoofing it out on the day. To each their own. But for me, it’s all elliptical at Lifetime Fitness can attest, I in the gesture – there’s something special intend to follow through – curses on those about being made to feel special in the obscenely delicious chocolate caramels! eyes of another.

Indeed the day has become more about As we’ve welcomed children – and spending time with the kids, making the expenses that come with raising them crafty Valentine’s for them to share with the way we intend to – Valentine’s Day their little friends – crafts that are clever flowers have become an unnecessary enough yet not too hard for little hands

to create. Our personal favorites right now are flowers that hold Dum-Dum lollipops and Tootsie Roll Rockets. When that becomes old hat, we’ll switch to our old stand-by – heart-shaped fish – three hearts artfully arranged equal one lusciously-lipped aquatic vertebrate.

At ages 5 and 4, the kids still get a kick out of adorning the kitchen windows with hearts of every shape, size and color and stringing streamers through every doorway. And as long as it keeps bringing joy to their faces, we’ll do it – no matter how old they are.

In lieu of flowers, an early bedtime for the little ones, a nice dinner in and a new release rental on Netflix are about all it will take to make this girl’s 2015 Valentine’s Day one for the books.

Wishing you a V-Day filled with just enough sweetness to your liking,

Contact Information:

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

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

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

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

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

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Adventure Travel (A8) Alabama Outdoors (B15) Alabama Power (B2) Anytime Fitness (A1) ARC Realty (B1) At Home Furnishings (B3) BAM Sports Grill (B14) Barganier & LeCroy Dentistry (A8) Bedzzz Express (A3) Birmingham Heart Clinic (B14) Birmingham Museum of Art (B16) Birmingham Speech and Hearing Associates (A7) Bistro V (A7) Brandino Brass (A15) Bromberg & Company, Inc. (A23) Bruster’s Real Ice Cream (A11) Cabinetry Refinishing & Restoration (A1) Children’s of Alabama (B13) Conour Insurance Inc. (A9) Donatos (B13) Eye See Optical (A14) Fancy Goods Variety (A22) Fi-Plan Partners (A13) Fred Smith Group (A19) Granite Transformations (A19) Hendrick Hoover Auto Mall (A15, B11) Homewood Toy & Hobby (B11) Hoover Title Mart (B9) In Shape MD Wellnes Clinic (B10) Issis & Sons / O Advertising (B7) Klinglers Cafe & Catering (A23) LIST Birmingham (A17) Lori Zucco Insurance Company (B9) Mantooth Interiors (B5) Monograms Plus (B12) Moran’s Rocky Ridge Hardware (A6) Morningside at Riverchase (A20) Mr. Chen’s Authentic Chinese (B9) Pappas’ Grill (B12) Planet Fitness (A13) RealtySouth Jana Hanna (A7) RealtySouth Marketing (A5) Remax Southern Homes - Becky Hicks (B5) Rocky Ridge Learning Center (B4) Royal Automotive (A24) St. Vincent’s Health Systems (B8) Sweat and Gears (A22) Tangles Hair Salon (A9) The clothes tree (B4) The Maids (A21) The Ridge Eat & Drink (A21) The UPS Store - Cahaba Heights (B12) Therapy South Vestavia (A18) Uptown Nail Spa (A10) Urban Home Market (A2) Vestavia Hills Lutheran Church (B15) Vestavia Hills Soccer Club (A12) Vestavia Sunoco and Tire Express (A11) Vitalogy Wellness Center (A10, A14, B6) Water Drainage Solutions (A9) Weigh To Wellness (B2)

vestaviavoice.com

February 2015 • A5

City Mayor’s Minute

By Alberto “Butch” Zaragoza I’d like to begin with an update on the status of the new City Hall. Progress is going well. We continue to meet monthly with our architecture partners at Williams-Blackstock, as well as our construction manager contacts from B.L. Harbert to ensure that this progress continues.

Roadwork on Mayland Lane is also moving smoothly. We expect that project, which involves the installation of a sidewalk and road widening, to be completed by the end of April. Work is also underway with the new redesign for the entryway coming off of Highway 31.

Since my last column in this publication, we’ve appointed two new board members, respectively to the Vestavia Hills Library Board and the Vestavia Hills Parks and Recreation Board. I want to take this time to congratulate Anna Gualano on her appointment to the Library Board, and to David Meyers, who will serve on the Parks and Recreation Board. I also want to thank Sara Robicheaux and Blaine House, both of whom recently completed their board terms for these respective boards, for

their service.

In Cahaba Heights, we are moving forward on the redesign of this area. The plans were passed by our Planning and Zoning Board along with the City Council. Residents can expect to see visible signs of these redesign efforts within the next three months.

From a financial standpoint, the first quarter continues to show good financial stability within our ad valorem and sales tax areas.

Lastly, the City is working with Tatum Design on the creation of a new website with more interactive features for residents. We expect to unveil that by the end of May. Your mayor,

Butch Zaragoza

Council discusses Cahaba Heights development, Sicard Hollow pedestrian tunnel

60 YEARS STRONG! w ww.realtysouth.com

During a Jan. 13 meeting, the council approved the rezoning of 4325 Dolly Ridge Road from residential to neighborhood-mixed used. The new development will host a dermatology practice and possibly other small scale retail properties, said City Manager Jeff Downes. Rendering courtesy of City of Vestavia Hills.

By KATIE TURPEN During a Jan. 13 meeting, the Vestavia Hills City Council approved the rezoning of 4325 Dolly Ridge Road from residential to neighborhood mixed use.

The property is directly adjacent to Cahaba Heights Elementary School and is currently owned by the city. The city and the developer requested a rezoning to create a denser, more urban development. The new development will host a dermatology practice and possibly other small-scale retail properties, said City Manager Jeff Downes. There will also be a newly constructed street that will connect to the elementary school.

“This development is consistent with the amended Cahaba Heights Community Plan,”

said Downes.

Also during the January meeting, the council passed a resolution authorizing the city to enter an agreement with Volkert Inc. for consulting services for the Sicard Hollow pedestrian tunnel. Design services will not exceed $74,300.

In October, the city approved an agreement with ALDOT for the construction of a tunnel to connect pedestrian routes underneath Sicard Hollow Road. The maximum amount for the project is $378,966, and the city will be required to match 20 percent of the funds. The tunnel will be for both pedestrians and cyclists.

“It can be very dangerous for both walkers and cyclists, so we are looking to change that,” said Mayor Butch Zaragoza.

Vestavia Voice

A6 • February 2015

Busy at the wheel Council approves distracted driving in school zones ordinance

By KATIE TURPEN

A Student Resource Officer directs after-school traffic at Pizitz Middle School. The Vestavia Hills City Council recently passed an ordinance prohibiting distracted driving in school zones in order to better protect children, parents and officers. Photo by Katie Turpen.

“The ordinance is aimed at providing safety in and around our schools,” Ammons said. “We want to make sure we maintain a safe environment for our SRO’s and teachers that are out there directing traffic as well as our students. We have had instances where SRO’s have been hit or brushed by vehicles because drivers just don’t pay attention.”

Lt. Brian Gilham stated this is the second year of having an officer at each school. During a January council

meeting, multiple SRO’s in attendance raised their hands when Gilham asked them if they had ever been brushed by a car while directing traffic at one of the local schools.

“This ordinance gives our officers the authority to address the situations as they see them,” Gilham said. “We will try to give as many warnings as possible before issuing the citation.”

Gilham emphasized that these are traffic citations that enforce city ordinances, they are not traffic tickets. The

Board of Education also approved the ordinance.

Residents have expressed concerns that restrictions such as eating, drinking, or having pets inside their cars is extreme and have also said the vague wording in the ordinance raises questions about how it will be properly enforced.

“Attempting to legislate what should be common sense is a bad idea, especially when protections were already in place,” said resident

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In today’s culture, texting while driving has become a safety hazard for drivers. However, cell phones are no longer the only interruptions behind the wheel.

According to the U.S. Department of Transportation’s National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), there are at least 3,000 deaths annually from distraction-affected crashes in which drivers lost control of their vehicles due to manual, visual or cognitive distractions.

The city of Vestavia Hills is taking action. During a December meeting, the City Council passed an ordinance prohibiting distracted driving in school zones.

In 2012, the state of Alabama passed a law that prohibits texting while driving. The Vestavia Hills ordinance covers a broader area by defining distracted driving as any activity that diverts a person’s attention from driving including talking, texting, emailing, reading books, newspapers, pets, loud music, food, etc. A school zone is defined as any ground located within 1,000 feet from the school.

Councilman Steve Ammons said he and fellow Councilman John Henley met with School Resources Officers to come up with an ordinance that would protect both children and parents and also the officers directing traffic at each school campus.

Har d w a r e

Kimberly Cook. “Citizens cannot be sure when they are violating the law.”

Ammons makes it clear a lot of thought was put into drafting the ordinance.

“Councilman Henley and I wrote the ordinance after almost a year of consideration and information gathering,” Ammons said. “All it takes is some consideration when picking up and dropping off at our schools.”

To a view a copy of the ordinance, visit vhal.org.

Create a Whole House To-Do List

- Grab a pen & paper - Go room-to-room writing down things that need attention. Focus only on repairs and improvements.

Your list might include caulking the windows, painting interior walls, replacing broken light fixtures or even finishing your basement.

- Organize the list by complexity, from small DIY projects to larger renovation projects.

- Rocky Ridge Hardware is right here to help!

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vestaviavoice.com

February 2015 • A7

Heroin death rates rise in 2014

By SYDNEY CROMWELL The heroin-related death rate for Jefferson County more than doubled in 2014. According Deputy Coroner Bill Yates of the Jefferson County Coroner’s Office, there were 129 confirmed heroin deaths last year, compared to 58 in 2013.

Across the county, the number of deaths from heroin overdose has been rising each year since 2010, when there were 12 deaths.

The growth between 2013 and 2014 was the largest single increase since that time.

Yates said Vestavia Hills had seven

confirmed heroin deaths this year, and the city neighbors other highly impacted areas. Within the city limits of Birmingham, 55 heroin-related deaths occurred in 2014. Homewood had seven confirmed deaths, and Hoover had between six and 10 fatalities. The Coroner’s Office also lists one death in Mountain Brook.

Yates said heroin is suspected as a contributing factor in other 2014 deaths, so the total may rise as more toxicology reports are completed.

“Those numbers can change until all our cases are closed out,” Yates said.

Council Updates

By KATIE TURPEN City Council business in December and January included: }} Presenting a certificate of appreciation to Sara Robicheaux for her time on the Vestavia Hills Library Board }} Giving conditional use approval for operation of a feline veterinary clinic; 2409 Acton Road. BRC Dolly Creek Station LLC, Owner; Jackie A. Holmes, DVM }} Appointing a new member to the Vestavia Hills Park And Recreation Board and appointing a new member to the Vestavia Hills Library Board }} Approving a resolution authorizing the city to enter an agreement with Wisener, LLC for Meadowlawn Estates acquisition services }} Announcing the city has been awarded a grant from the Alabama Historical

Commission to assist in improvements at Sybil Temple }} Approving a resolution giving notice of a public hearing for the adoption of the 2015 international fire safety code. The fire chief will present the code at a meeting scheduled for Feb. 9. }} Approving a resolution accepting a request for proposal (RFP) for a three year athletic field maintenance agreement. An analysis was done by the Public Services Director, which determined that it was in the best public interest to outsource the city’s specialized athletic field maintenance. The RFP was submitted by Specialty Turf Supply, Inc. }} Approving a resolution changing signatures at Regions Bank on the city’s court bond account }} Approving a resolution to form a health care authority for the city

A8 • February 2015

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vestaviavoice.com

February 2015 • A9 recommended to Delta patrons.

967-6004.

Now Open Dirty Hippie, a retail boutique at 2531 Rocky Ridge Road, Suite 117, is now open. They carry clothing, accessories, gift items, art, jewelry and more.

874-6164. anotherdirtyhippie.com.

1

Relocations and Renovations The Amandas Organizing and Closets has moved to a new showroom 4505 Pine Tree Circle, Suite 120. Its grand opening celebration in January supported the Shelby Humane Society.

970-1087. theamandas.com.

2

Pit Crew TFS, 2498 Rocky Ridge Road, is undergoing renovations in their parking area.

Pursuant to federal EPA regulations, gasoline storage tanks below the parking lot are being removed since they are no longer used. After their removal, the parking area will be improved for aesthetics and for customer access.

593-4170. pitcrewtfs.com.

3

News and Accomplishments Miss Myra’s Pit Bar-B-Q, 3278 Cahaba Heights Road, was included in an article in the December 2014 issue of Delta Sky magazine titled “The Bucket List,” written by Andrew Zimmern of the Travel Channel. The iconic restaurant was included in a list of restaurants around the world

4

James Keller and Susan McDougal of Adventure Travel, 1000 Chestnut Street, Suite 200, recently attended the 2014 Disney’s EarMarked Conference at Walt Disney World in Orlando, Florida. They were two of about 500 travel agents from around the country invited to attend the program specifically for agencies with the “Authorized Disney Vacation Planner” designation.

380-5500. adtrav.com.

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Business news

to share?

Now Open Coming Soon

Hirings and Promotions Richard Grimes has been named CEO of RealtySouth. Former President and CEO Ty Dodge will serve as chairman emeritus, and Jim Dye will serve as senior vice president and general sales manager. RealtySouth has a local office in Vestavia Hills at 2409 Acton Road, Suite 137. realtysouth.com.

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Anniversaries The Lili Pad, a children’s clothing store at 3138 Heights Village, is celebrating its 11th anniversary in February.

298-1811.

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Pit Crew TFS, 2498 Rocky Ridge Road, is celebrating its third anniversary in February.

593-4170. pitcrewtfs.com.

Relocation Expansion Anniversary

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

8

Email dan@vestaviavoice.com

Water Drainage Solutions 244-1114 244-111 1114 111 4

French Drains • Floodwater Management Systems Downspout Services • Foundation Drains Drainage Basins • Erosion Control AL G.C. License # 43737

WaterDrainageSolutions.com

A10 • February 2015

Vestavia Voice

Chamber

Chuck Conour, Wesley Webster and Elizabeth Grady. Photos by Rebecca Walden.

LeArden Pike, ELM Construction, Jeff Downes, City Manager for the City of Vestavia Hills, and Blaine House.

Award winners, new officers honored at January Chamber luncheon

By REBECCA WALDEN On Tuesday, Jan. 13, the Vestavia Hills Chamber of Commerce 2014 Board passed the leadership torch to the 2015 members. In addition to the officer installation, immediate past Chamber Chair Linda Parker of Bruster’s Real Ice Cream, along with Past Chair Scott Perry and Chamber President Karen Odle, honored the nine recipients of the 2014 Chamber Awards: }} Ambassador of the Year – Amy Kabase, Charter Media }} Ambassador of the Quarter – Paige Gilliland, Newk’s Eatery }} Member of the Year – Deloye Burrell, photographer

}} Volunteer of the Year – Lee Higginbotham, Advanced Mower

}} Chair-Elect – James Robinson, Alagasco

}} Secretary/Legal Counsel – Mark Macoy, Mark. W. Macoy, LLC

}} Vice-Chair, Business Development – Doug Dean, Children’s of Alabama

}} Immediate Past Chair – Linda Parker, Bruster’s Real Ice Cream

}} Business of the Year (Retail) – Newk’s Eatery

}} Vice-Chair, Community Affairs – Brian Burns, Cahaba Fitness

}} Past Chair – Scott Perry, Contri Bros. Gift Basket & The Arrangement

}} Business of the Year (Service) – Vestavia Hills United Methodist Church

}} Vice-Chair, Membership Development – Amy Kabase, Charter Media

}} President’s Choice Award – Scott Perry

}} Vice-Chair, Programming – Roger Steur, Principal Mortgage, LLC

Following the recognition of award winners, outgoing chair Linda Parker acknowledged the contributions of the 2014 board, with incoming chair Angie McEwen then announcing the slate of 2015 officers and the 2015 board of directors:

}} Vice-Chair, Public Education – Kristin Tunnell, Community Volunteer

}} Dr. Charles A. “Scotty” McCallum Leadership Award – John Henley, State Farm Insurance and City Councilman

}} Chair – Angie McEwen, Butler Snow LLP

The newly installed officers and board will convene for the next Chamber Luncheon on Tuesday, Feb. 10, 2015, at 11:30 a.m. with keynote speaker Gary Warner, Director of Research in Computer Forensics at UAB.

}} Treasurer – Ben Chambliss, Jackson Howard & Whatley, CPAs

WELLNESS CENTER

vestaviavoice.com

February 2015 • A11

Area churches host seasonal consignment sales

By REBECCA WALDEN Bargain hunters in the know are already formulating their game plan to shop the area’s major children’s consignment sales.

Two long-standing, high quality sales in Hoover, Vestavia Hills United Methodist’s Whale of a Sale and Mountaintop Community Church’s

Market on the Mountain sale, are already keeping consignors and committee organizers busy as they sort and prepare spring sales inventory.

Both sales boast a large selection of everything from children’s clothing to toys, books and gently used accessories and furniture.

“I love shopping the Vestavia area consignment sales because I know that I am going to

It takes a lot of caffeine, and a heart for service, to pull off these twice-annual consignment sales. Whale of a Sale Committee members Lindsay Bearden and Heather Hurt are just a few of the familiar and friendly faces shoppers will find this spring as they peruse sale inventory for must-have bargains. Photo courtesy of Allison Youngblood.

Whale of a Sale Vestavia Hills United Methodist Church Thurs., Mar. 5, Public Sale, 5 p.m. – 9 p.m.

Fri., Mar. 6, Public Discount Sale, 9 a.m. – 2 p.m. (select items 50% off) Whale of a Sale, benefiting Vestavia Day School, is known for its stringent screening

get good quality, well cared for pieces and great prices,” said Cahaba Heights resident and mother of two Julia Crigler. “It is my go-to source for all of my kids Sunday dress clothes.”

“I have shopped at Whale of a Sale ever since I was pregnant with my first child to buy great items at a discounted price,” added Whale of a Sale Committee member Heather Hurt. “I started

volunteering so that I could shop earlier for the even better items, and to spend time with friends.

It becomes a girls’ night out with friends I don’t often get to see. The bonus is that the event benefits my youngest child’s school and where we go to church.”

Shoppers enjoy looking through a variety of clothing options at last year’s Whale of a Sale at Vestavia Hills United Methodist Church. Photo by Katie Turpen.

policy. Expect to find inventory that is stainfree and in good repair. Thursday is a strollerfree and kid-free night. No laundry baskets are permitted. Stuffed animals are not a part of this sale. Acceptable forms of payment include cash, check and major credit cards.

Market on the Mountain

For more, visit: whaleofasale.blogspot.com

This twice-annual sale benefits Mountaintots Christian Day School, and offers

Mountaintop Community Church Fri., Mar. 6,, Public Sale, 9 am – 6 pm Sat., Mar. 7, Public Discount Sale, 9 am – 2 pm (select items 25% off)

clothing, toys, furniture and more. Laundry baskets are allowed, as are strollers.

However, no large purses or diaper bags are permitted. Cash, major credit cards and in-state checks are all acceptable methods of payment.

For more, visit: marketonthemountain.com

A12 • February 2015

Vestavia Voice

Restaurant Showcase

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3278 Cahaba Heights Road 967-6004 Monday-Thursday, 8 a.m.- 8 p.m.

Friday-Saturday, 7 a.m.- 9 p.m.

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Miss Myra’s Pit Bar-B-Q

Read past Restaurant Showcases at VestaviaVoice.com

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A long, black limousine pulled up to the front of the building and stopped. When the door opened, actors Debbie Reynolds and Donald O’Connor stepped out as though they were about to attend a movie premiere for Singing in the Rain. The two weren’t attending a premiere, however. They were paying a visit to Miss Myra’s Pit Bar-B-Q in Cahaba Heights.

“They were staying down at the Sheraton, and they asked their drivers, ‘Where’s a good place to eat barbecue?’” Co-owner Rennae Wheat said.

“They said, ‘We know the place.’”

Reynolds and O’Connor aren’t the only notable names that have come through Miss Myra’s doors. In its nearly 30 years in business, its popularity has caught on to local and national celebrities. Several national food critics have listed Miss Myra’s as one of the best barbecue restaurants in the nation. Its notoriety, however, would not be possible without a quality product, Wheat said.

Miss Myra’s began in 1985 as a small deli and convenience store run

by Myra Roundtree and her husband, Clark. Previously, Myra worked as a female barber and Clark worked in the

ue

By MADISON MILLER

Co-owner Buck Wheat stands in front of the counter at Miss Myra’s Pit Bar-B-Q. In its nearly 30 years in business, the restaurant’s popularity has caught on to local and national celebrities. Photo by Madison Miller.

oil industry. After moving to Louisiana in the early ’80s, the couple was in between jobs and decided to open the store in Alabama in order to be closer to family. The deli included some barbecue items on the menu, but

once customers tasted it, word spread fast and Myra and Clark were soon having trouble meeting the community’s demands.

In 1987, Myra’s daughter, Rennae Wheat, and her husband, Buck began

helping with the business. After acquiring more space, they were able to turn their store into a barbecue restaurant. Originally known as Roundtree Barbecue, the restaurant changed its name to Miss Myra’s Pit

Bar-B-Q in 1991.

Miss Myra’s menu stays true to traditional Alabama barbecue. They serve a variety of barbecue pork, chicken and beef dishes along with red or white barbecue sauce. Dessert items are always popular as well with seven different pie flavors and the restaurant’s famous banana pudding.

Reannae and Buck have given out the recipe before at customers’ requests, but have often heard that it is not the same as picking some up at the restaurant.

“They’ll come back and say it’s just too much trouble to make it. I’d rather you make it,” she said.

Rennae and Buck are aware that in Alabama, barbecue competition is fierce. After years in business, they are confident in what sets them apart. “[There’s] a lot of gratification out of people’s reaction to how they love the food,” Buck said.

While Rennae and Buck have always been grateful for the recognition Miss Myra’s has received, they know that it would not have been possible without a staff that works together like family and loyal customers.

“It’s just great working with a family,” Rennae said.

vestaviavoice.com

February 2015 • A13

Join Us for the Samford Business Network Birmingham Quarterly Meeting and Breakfast featuring

Robert Moore President of LPL Financial The #1 independent broker-dealer for 19 straight years*

Robert Moore will present what it takes to lead the largest independent broker-dealer in the nation. Robert will discuss his international business experience and how it shaped his own leadership style. He will also share his expertise on capital markets and the important choices facing our generation for continued prosperity and freedom.

When Thursday, February 19, 2015 From 7:00 AM to 8:00 AM CST

Hosted by:

Where The Harbert Center 2019 4th Ave. North Birmingham, AL 35068

Register at www.fiplanpartners.com/robertmoore For More Information Contact Kara Kennedy at (205) 726-2364

Securities Offered Through LPL Financial. Member FINRA/SIPC. Samford University is not affiliated with LPL Financial. *As reported by Financial Planning magazine, June 1996-2014, based on total revenue.

A14 • February 2015

RECIPE

By AMY JASON

Vestavia Voice

Whatchamacallit Blonde Brownies

2 cups brown sugar 1 1/2 sticks butter, softened 2 eggs 1 teaspoon vanilla extract 1/4 cup caramel ice cream topping 1 teaspoon salt 2 teaspoons baking powder 2 cups flour 1 1/4 cup caramel bits 1 1/2 cups rice krispies cereal 2 cups chocolate chips 1/2 cup heavy whipping cream

Cream the butter and sugar until creamy. Add the eggs, vanilla, caramel topping and salt and beat on low until fluffy.

Add the baking powder and flour to the butter mixture, mix well. Stir in the caramel bits and rice krispies by hand.

Spread in a greased 9×13 pan and bake at 350 degrees for 28 minutes. Cool on a wire rack.

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Amy Jason, a Vestavia wife and mother of three, is an avid baker and cookie connoisseur. She believes that sharing “a little sacka sugar” from your heart and from your kitchen is the sweetest way to spread some smiles. She doesn’t always know what’s for dinner, but she always knows what’s for dessert! Amy can be contacted at amy.jason@att.net.

vestaviavoice.com

February 2015 • A15

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A16 • February 2015

Vestavia Voice

“You know you live in Vestavia Hills...”

Photo by Katie Turpen

1

“When you see a Rebel t-shirt and you don’t automatically think it’s for Ole Miss.”

Michelle Seale

2

“When you say you live on Canyon Road and are immediately asked if you live in ‘the mannequin house!’”

3

“When your children had the same teachers in 2008 as you did back in 1978!”

Katherine Conyers Manush

Salena Whalen-Staler

4

“When you can call on your local firemen and police to stop by your child’s birthday party or classroom on request.”

Allyson Bell McLean

5

6

“When you witness proposals from one of the most beautiful outlooks in Birmingham-Sybil Temple.”

“When you get all your recommendations and news from ‘What’s happening in Vestavia.’”

Sara M. Nix

Renie Porter Moss

7

“When there’s so much altitude change on your commute that your ears pop.”

Dan Carsen

8

9

“When you have brain surgery and the entire community supports and prays for you and your family like no other place in America!”

“When you know the end of the saying, ‘When you play one Rebel...’Also, your child went to ‘The Best Middle School in America.’”

Tracy Tiberia Thornton

Katie O’Neal Cecil

Photo by Katie Turpen

10

“When a ‘hilly’ race course doesn’t scare you at all because all of your training runs have been hill training in your Vestavia Hills neighborhood whether you planned on it or not.”

Robin Crane White

11

“When a ‘snowstorm’ hits unexpectedly, schools dismiss, cars are everywhere and everyone is either out in ATVs, 4 wheel drives or walking to get your children home or someplace safe and warm.”

Bridgett Whatley Glasgow

12

“When you drive through the city in the spring and the azaleas, dogwoods, cherry trees, tulips, and daffodils are all in bloom and you think to yourself, ‘this must be the way heaven looks and I can’t wait!’”

Mary McCullough Berryman

Photo by Keith McCoy

vestaviavoice.com

February 2015 • A17

Help the Hills hosts panel discussion on drug and alcohol use

By KATIE TURPEN When it comes to drug prevention in Vestavia Hills, saving just one life makes all the difference.

“It’s very important we are all collaborating together,” Superintendent Sheila Phillips said.

“If we are talking about the well-being of even just one student, then that is a priority for us.”

In January, Leadership Vestavia Hills held a panel discussion at Vestavia Hills United Methodist Church with leaders from the board of education, the police department and the Jefferson County Drug Court.

Panel members were Phillips, Judge Shanta Owens and Vestavia Hills Police Lt. Johnny Evans. Each panel member spent several minutes discussing the role of their respective organization, including policies and procedures as they relate to drug and alcohol use by minors.

Phillips cited several initiatives the Vestavia Hills school system was taking in terms drug prevention. Students learn about drug prevention in health classes at the high school, and the system recently launched a new voluntary drug testing program.

Phillips stated that this year, the school system is partnering with Gateway Community Services. If it becomes evident a student is struggling, referrals can be made by the school to the drug and alcohol addiction service.

Phillips added that the school system is partnering with the Addiction Prevention Coalition, a grassroots organization creating awareness about drug and alcohol addiction prevention in central Alabama.

Lara Dutton Thomas, a parent whose son will soon enter middle school in Vestavia Hills, said she is thankful for the Help the Hills meetings.

However, her main concern is with the lack of school counselors that specialize in drugs and

In January, Leadership Vestavia Hills held a panel discussion at Vestavia Hills United Methodist Church, which included Superintendent Sheila Phillips, Vestavia Hills Police Lt. Johnny Evans and Judge Shanta Owens. Photo by Katie Turpen.

alcohol.

“I respect the school counselors,” she said.

“But if a student is caught with drugs they should be taken to a specialized counselor in that field.

Preemptive measures should be considered.”

Evans gave a presentation with drug statistics as well as a series of slides showing the many shapes and sizes drugs can come in and the various ways they are injected. Statistics he shared included drug overdoses leading to more than 3,500 teen deaths annually and teens are more likely to try prescription drugs than any other illicit drugs.

Evans encouraged residents to drop off their unused prescription drugs at two locations, Vestavia Hills City Hall and the VHPD East Precinct at 3241 Cahaba Heights Road, where they will be properly disposed of.

“This problem is not just affecting one community, this is affecting everyone,” Evans said.

“I see a lot of young people who are unaware of their actions. I see good people from good families in my courtroom,” said Owens, citing the increasing amount of heroin cases she has seen in recent years. “I see the struggle they go through every day. Making sure they do not have

access to narcotics is half the battle.”

Help the Hills was formed in an effort to foster open dialogue with parents, educators and community leaders about drug prevention.

On April 7, Help the Hills will host a session with parents and children. Dr. Stephen Taylor will be the speaker. He is certified by the American Board of Addiction Medicine as a specialist in addiction medicine.

Help the Hills is also looking for people to host meetings in their homes. For more, visit leadershipvestaviahills.com.

A18 • February 2015

Vestavia Voice

Designed to Shine

2nd Annual Women’s Conference Vestavia Hills United Methodist Church Saturday, Feb. 21, 8:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m.

Attendance is open to any woman of college age and above.

Order tickets at vhumc.org

VHUMC to host 2nd annual women’s conference

By REBECCA WALDEN When “the way we’ve always done it” is called into healthy question, powerful change can take hold. And thanks to the vision of Amy Parker, that’s exactly what happened at her home church, Vestavia Hills United Methodist.

Parker, relatively new to the Methodist faith and to this local congregation, made a bold move when she first suggested that VHUMC host a women’s conference in 2014. It would mean a drastic departure from more traditional women’s programs the church had supported.

After receiving encouragement from a few friends, Parker trusted her instincts and carried the idea forward.

With 140 in attendance that first year, including several who’d been slow to warm to Parker’s idea, the inaugural event included guests from numerous church families. It also demonstrated multigenerational appeal, with women attending from age 25 to age 90.

“I have attended several different conferences since I started college, and I can remember something special that I took away from every single one,” she said. “When we moved to back to Vestavia, I found myself socializing with a group of women from church that were amazing. I felt God calling me to organize something

Nearly 150 Over the Mountain women turned out for VHUMC’s first Women’s Conference, held in February 2014. This year’s event will be condensed into a morning schedule. Photo courtesy of Amy Parker.

like this so we could come together with no other agenda but to worship together, learn from one another and hear a fresh word from God.” Fast-forward a year, and now Parker is in the final planning stages of VHUMC’s second annual women’s conference, themed “Designed to Shine.”

The half-day event will feature Birmingham-Southern College alumna Candice Moore, who leads global mission organization Passion Partners.

“Part of the reason we chose to invite Candice to speak is that she is so easy to relate to,” said Parker. “She is a busy mom on the go, but she is also a widow, remarried in a blended family of seven, and leader of a major mission group. Her story is one of redemption and restoration.”

In a departure from last year, the 2015 event is condensed into a morning-only format.

“While we felt it was important to spend the day away — almost like a

retreat — we realize that is not always realistic. This year, our event will be done by lunchtime so everyone can get back to their families. You can expect a compelling speaker delivering two sessions, music, a special performance and some good ‘girl time.’”

For Parker, who expected the event to become an every-other-year conference, the experience of planning her second consecutive conference has proven its own blessing.

“I hope this will be an annual event

Hands on Care, Close to Home.

that women in our community can look forward to every February as part of their new year tradition,” she said. “While the takeaway is really different for everyone, our prayer is for God to reach everyone in their own way. Some will leave refreshed and inspired, some will leave recognizing new gifts of their own, and hopefully everyone will leave with a new perspective.”

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vestaviavoice.com

February 2015 • A19

Call for

NOMINATIONS C OMMUNITY

C OMMUNITY

OF THE YEAR

OF THE YEAR

M EMBER

C AUSE

Visit

vestaviavoice.com/award

by Feb. 8 to nominate Voting will take place Feb. 23- March 8

A20 • February 2015

Vestavia Voice

Community Troop 232 Girl Scouts earn Bronze Award

In November, the 2014 Poinsettia Ball Debutantes enjoyed a beautiful fall afternoon at The Southern Skeet and Trap Club. Photo courtesy of Gail Sanson.

Poinsettia Ball Debutantes enjoy fall party In November, Emily Crawford, Francesca Malensek, Shea McCord, Anna Leigh Sharp and Julia Simmons, along with their parents, hosted the Debutante Skeet Party at The Southern Skeet and Trap Club in Irondale. Matt Gossett, a nine-time USA Shooting Olympic Trap Team member, instructed the young ladies in safety and shooting skills.

The 2014 Poinsettia Ball Debutantes then played competitive rounds of skeet led by field instructors Matt Gossett, Bob Crawford, Frank

Malensek, and Paris Malensek. A picnic lunch was served between rounds of skeet. Picnic tables were decorated with mason jars of Fall foliage and sunflowers. Commemorating the event, guests received a burlap chalkboard ornament that featured the Debutante’s name and the event; each ornament was adorned with a Winchester shell, white tulle and a poinsettia.

The Debutantes who attended the event were Catherine Angelo, Caroline Beauchaine, Ali Cash, Grace

Cato, Anna Christiansen, Anna Donze, Callie Garrison, Francie Harris, Jaclyn Howell, Ellen Marsh, Anna Robbins, Margaret Sharbel, Mary Ann Stevenson, Kelle Summerlin, and Meagan Willis.

Mary Jo Angelo, a member of the Poinsettia Debutante Ball Board of the Ballet Women’s Committee, also attended the event. The Debutantes were presented at the 47th Annual Poinsettia Debutante Ball in December at the Vestavia Country Club.

Junior Girl Scouts of Troop 232 recently earned their Bronze Award. Photo courtesy of Karol Leggett.

The Junior Girl Scouts of Troop 232 recently earned their Bronze Award.

To earn the award, the girls raised more than $1000 and as a troop, picked a project to work on. They planned the items they wanted to purchase and make for a Lovelady Center room makeover.

They shopped for the items and made custom throw pillows, hand painted wall hangings and handmade fabric bulletin boards. They spent more than six hours working on the room to make a complete transformation.

The Girl Scout Bronze Award is the highest award a Girl Scout Junior can earn. This award recognizes that a Girl Scout Junior has gained the leadership and planning skills required to follow through with a project that makes a positive difference in the community. This award must be approved by a troop leader or advisor. Each girl must have an individual leadership position, and it is suggested that they complete at least 20 leadership hours towards the project.

-Submitted by Karol Leggett

vestaviavoice.com

February 2015 • A21

Vestavia resident honored at National Multiple Sclerosis Society conference Charley Long of Vestavia Hills was recently honored as a Chairman’s Circle member at the National Multiple Sclerosis Society’s Leadership Conference in Fort Worth for the life-changing impact he has made as part of the Multiple Sclerosis (MS) movement.

“We are extremely grateful for this unyielding commitment to the Society’s vision for a world free of MS by our Chairman Club members,” said Cyndi Zagieboylo, president and CEO of the National MS Society.

After participating in his first Bike MS event in 2001, Long became inspired to do something about multiple sclerosis. He has since raised more than $800,000 and ridden more than 5,000 miles to help find a cure for MS, including a 42-day, 3,000 mile Ride Across America.

Each year, Long advances the awareness of multiple sclerosis by writing personal letters to everyone from his dry cleaner to his closest friends.

“My goals are two-fold,” he said. “I want to create awareness of the disease, and I want to make a significant contribution to fund research that will find a cure and support people with the disease until that cure is found.”

In order to raise additional funds for the Alabama-Mississippi Chapter of the National MS Society, Long piloted a silent auction in 2009, which has since been held annually at Alabama Power.

The auction has raised more than $70,000 since its inception to benefit those living with MS in Alabama

and Mississippi.

Long serves as a member of the Board of Trustees for the Alabama-Mississippi Chapter.

Multiple sclerosis, an unpredictable, often disabling disease of the central nervous system, interrupts the flow of information within the brain, and between the brain and body. Symptoms range from numbness and tingling to blindness and paralysis. The progress, severity and specific symptoms of MS in any one person cannot yet be predicted, but advances in research and treatment are moving us closer to a world free of MS. Most people with MS are diagnosed between the ages of 20 and 50, with at least two to three times more women than men being diagnosed with the disease.

MS affects more than 2.3 million people worldwide.

The National Multiple Sclerosis Society mobilizes people and resources to drive research for a cure and to address the challenges of everyone affected by MS. In 2013 alone, through its home office and 50-state network of chapters, the society devoted $145.2 million to programs and services that assisted more than one million people.

The society also invested more than $50 million to support more than 380 new and ongoing research projects around the world.

For more, visit nationalMSsociety.org.

-Submitted by Laura Pemberton

Charley Long of Vestavia Hills was recently honored as a Chairman’s Circle member at the National Multiple Sclerosis Society’s Leadership Conference.

Photo courtesy of Laura Pemberton.

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A22 • February 2015

Vestavia Voice

FOUNDATION

CONTINUED from page A1

9th Annual Dinner & Diamonds

have up-to-date learning resources.

This month, the Foundation will host its flagship fundraiser as well as the Pitch In for Education campaign, with proceeds fueling resources for local classrooms.

benefiting the Vestavia Hills City Schools Foundation

Making an impact The Foundation began in 1996 when a group of parents got together and decided the Foundation was necessary as an alternative means of funding for the school system’s academic needs.

Today, the Foundation board is composed of volunteers from the community who serve three-year terms. The Foundation functions as a nonprofit organization that maintains an education endowment. This endowment provides grants, which enable the schools to have access to funds that go beyond the local, state and federal resources.

Over the past 18 years, the Foundation has grown its education endowment to more than $2 million.

Interest generated from this investment has enabled the Foundation to grant nearly $667,000 to the eight schools in the system. In 2014 alone, VHCSF awarded 11 grants totaling $60,000 to the system and the Board of Education.

“Our goal is to grow the education endowment to $5 million to make dreams and innovations possible,” said VHCSF Executive Director Ashley Thompson. “As Superintendent Sheila Phillips has said, the school system budget may fund the day-today expenses, but the grants fund the system’s innovations and dreams.”

Saturday, Feb. 28 7 p.m., Regions Field Tickets are $80 per person. The event will feature live music, food, and silent and live auctions that include jewelry from Paul’s Diamond Center and art from local artists.

Sponsorships available.

Area residents enjoy last year’s Dinner & Diamonds event benefiting the Vestavia Hills City Schools Foundation. Photo courtesy of Ashley Thompson.

Innovative grants The Foundation provides grants that go toward classroom enhancements, professional development and technology.

For example, due to the joint grants from the Foundation and Wells Fargo, Pizitz Middle School and Liberty Park Middle School are now using a Full Option Science System (FOSS).

Each middle school science class received two FOSS modules this year.

The FOSS program is a research-based

program that focuses on hands-on learning and investigation.

“The FOSS kits have everything a teacher needs to help students experience science first and then explain the concepts,” said Pizitz science teacher Aimee Farrar. “The students love the hands-on approach to science class.”

Furthermore, with a grant from the Foundation, the school system purchased the Lucy Calkins Units of Writing system to enhance the writing curriculum. Every elementary school teacher in Vestavia received a grade

level copy of the program.

The grants not only provide technological resources for students but also fund professional development training for teachers that helps them successfully integrate those resources into the classroom.

February campaign This year, the Foundation will host the 9th annual Dinner & Diamonds event, which serves as the organization’s flagship fundraiser. Last year’s event drew more than 500 people, and

Vestaviafoundation.org

Thompson said they moved this year’s event to Regions Field to accommodate the larger crowds.

“The event provides an opportunity to celebrate the accomplishments of the Foundation, and funds the operating budget, which ensures the Foundation has the resources it needs to keep working to support our schools and teachers,” said Thompson.

The event includes live music, food, and silent and live auctions. Auction items include jewelry from Paul’s Diamond Center, sporting events, dining

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vestaviavoice.com

February 2015 • A23 PARK

CONTINUED from page A1

Classroom Enhancements $138,302.20 Professional Development $319,752.72 Technology $208,318.00

The Foundation focuses on funding three categories: technology (improvements and upgrades), professional development (training for teachers), and classroom enhancements (items that can be used by numerous students for many years to come).

and art from local artists. Sponsorships are also available.

Also this month, the Foundation will launch the 6th annual Pitch In for Education campaign. The campaign gives students an opportunity to personally make a difference in their schools.

By “pitching in” loose change or bills, students help grow the Foundation’s education endowment. The class in each school that contributes the most during their Pitch In campaign wins a Bruster’s Real Ice

Cream party, and the teacher wins a $50 classroom grant.

Last year’s campaign raised more than $40,000 for Vestavia Hills City Schools.

“We’re raising money for all students, not just one specific program,” said Thompson. “This is for the kids.”

Visit vestaviafoundation.org or email Ashley Thompson at director@ vestaviafoundation.org.

owned by the city and the Freshwater Land Trust.

Greg Hansen, the creator of McCallum Park’s master plan, said Little Shades Creek is an instant hit with parents and children wanting to splash around or search for fish.

“When people take their young kids there, the first place they take them is the creek,” Hansen said. “It’s wide, it’s clean [and] it’s shallow.”

However, visitors tend not to cross the creek unless they are prepared to get wet. With funding help from the Vestavia Hills Parks and Recreation Foundation, the city’s parks and recreation department fixed this problem by installing a bridge. Completed in January, the 100-foot stone and wood bridge opens up between 11 and 14 additional acres to visitors.

“By adding a bridge over Little Shades Creek, we were able to open up access to both sides of the park,” Public Services Director Brian Davis said.

“There’s more for people to explore a nature setting in a suburban and urban area.”

Leigh Belcher, the secretary of the Parks and Recreation Foundation, said the park improvements were funded by the Partnership in Healthy Living fundraising campaign. Of the $1.2 million in commitments that the foundation has already received, around $325,000 went toward building the bridge and related improvements. Belcher said the foundation is still raising funds for projects at Liberty Park and Sicard Hollow.

McCallum is located on Rosemary Lane and is already a popular spot for picnics, walking, sports and enjoying nature. Hansen said on a typical day he sees children and adults playing flag football or soccer in the open field while families grill hot dogs in the nearby stone pavilions. The park has been used for concerts and movies on the grass.

It is also a natural haven for wildlife, from the fish in the creek to the deer, foxes and turkeys that were frequently seen when Phase One of the park was completed in 2003.

“It offers something for everybody,” Davis said.

As part of the bridge installation, parks and recreation workers also cleared away about two acres of

underbrush and added some crushed stone trails to around six acres of the park. Davis said the bridge will also help the city in moving equipment around for future improvements. It’s a critical part of Vestavia’s larger plans for McCallum and other area parks.

The bridge was originally proposed in 2012, but a citizen survey in 2013 showed that a large number of residents wanted more green spaces, sidewalks and trails. Davis said that survey gave urgency to the bridge’s construction and kick-started a series of city projects focused on resident-identified areas of need.

“We are meeting the needs. I wouldn’t say we have met the needs,” Davis said. “We haven’t met all the requests, but we’ve started down that road.”

Future city projects include a 3-mile greenway loop and another bridge at McCallum and sidewalks connecting the Rocky Ridge business district to area neighborhoods. There is no timeline yet for these plans, but Davis said the city is working with the Parks and Recreation Foundation to find grants and other funds to make the projects possible.

“We’re seeking funding so we can continue adding trails here and there,” Davis said.

Belcher hopes the recent McCallum trails and future paths will create safer running and walking paths for residents of nearby neighborhoods and members of Vestavia Hills High School’s crosscountry team.

“You have a pretty good area to walk and run,” Belcher said. “It’s pretty flat, which is rare for Vestavia.”

Davis would like to see local Boy Scouts get involved in the future of McCallum Park. An Eagle Scout project could be made out of mapping the park’s trails and installing informational signs on them.

With the bridge roughly tripling McCallum Park’s acreage, Davis said the park is even better at offering residents a change of pace in the midst of suburban neighborhoods, a high school and the nearby Rocky Ridge businesses.

“It is a great place to relax and it is right in our backyard,” Davis said. “It’s so close, but yet you feel like you’re miles away from everything.”

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SECTION B School House B4 Sports B10 Calendar B14

Family matters Wrestling has lifetime hold on father and son coaches at Vestavia Hills and Hoover

By DAVID KNOX Steve Gaydosh is the winningest high school wrestling coach in Alabama. In his 33 years as Vestavia Hills coach, he’s won 12 state championships and coached runner-up teams eight times.

He has mentored 84 individual champions, including son Jonathan Gaydosh and son Jacob Gaydosh — who now coaches rival Hoover High.

Yes, it’s a family thing for the Gaydoshes.

Truth be told, the area wrestling community is sort of like family.

“In wrestling, since we compete at tournaments where we’re all in the gym all weekend together all year long, it’s almost like I feel I’ve coached all these guys, since I’ve coached against them since they were

See WRESTLING | page B8

Hoover High wrestling coach Jacob Gaydosh hoists his father, Vestavia Hills coach Steve Gaydosh. Photo by Karim Shamsi-Basha.

“We got exactly the house we wanted” When Lynlee and Alan Palmer decided to sell their home and buy more space for son Mac, daughter Adele, and the family’s black lab Champ, they looked to long-time friend and experienced Realtor Kim Maddox with ARC Realty for guidance. “We had some challenges selling our home, but Kim worked through the obstacles,” says Alan. “Our search for a new home started right here,” says Lynlee, referring to the location of their new home in Mountain Brook. “We looked at other houses, but we got exactly the location we wanted. I’d be happy to live here forever.”

Helping clients (who typically become friends) is what Kim loves about being a Realtor. “It’s rewarding to help a family find a home they love.”

Kim made a move last year, too, to ARC Realty. “This is an exciting time to be a Realtor, and the ARC team makes it fun. ARC believes in training and customer service, which translates to happy customers!”

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www.arcrealtyco.com Mac, Champ, Lynlee, Adele and Alan Palmer on the front porch of their new Mountain Brook home

Kim Maddox • (205) 790-4044 • kmaddox@arcrealtyco.com

B2 • February 2015

Vestavia Voice

POWER TO

BUILD DREAMS

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Safe, affordable, reliable electricity is one form of power we provide, but not the only one. Meet Sharon Scott. She has a new home that’s affordable, comfortable and energy efficient. With help from Habitat for Humanity and Alabama Power, Sharon will have a comfortable place to call home for years to come. That’s power to help build dreams.

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vestaviavoice.com

February 2015 • B3

The White Rose Ball returns to Vestavia Country Club

By KATIE TURPEN The fourth annual White Rose Ball of Birmingham will be held Friday, March 6, from 6-11 p.m. at the Vestavia Country Club.

The ball invites fathers and daughters to join in celebration of one another. Fathers pledge to their

daughters to guide them to choices of purity in heart. This pledge ceremony has become a national movement.

The Birmingham Ball is organized by the 4:8 Fathers, a group of Christian fathers who promote purity in heart, mind and deed. This year’s theme is “Spoken For.” “We didn’t set this up because

The fourth annual Birmingham White Rose Ball will be held Friday, March 6 from 6-11 p.m. at the Vestavia Country Club. The ball invites fathers and daughters to join in celebration of one another.

Photos by Stacey Robertson.

we are perfect ourselves,” said Joby O’Brien, event organizer. “It’s a real opportunity to open that door for a solid future father-daughter relationship.”

During the ball, fathers escort their daughters to a cross, where they place a single white rose as a symbol of their commitment. Additionally, fathers

sign a covenant saying that they are committed to guiding their daughters in purity for the duration of their lives.

A sit-down meal, inspirational speaker, and live music by Maxx Groove will also be part of the evening’s events. Attire is semi-formal or formal. O’Brien said that the evening is set to be a very special time for

fathers and their daughters.

“It’s always a memorable night,” O’Brien said. “It’s a chance to get dressed up, but it’s also about much more.”

Tickets are $60 per plate/$120 per couple. Register online at whiteroseball.com. For more, contact O’Brien at 542-1378 or JOBYAO@aol.com.

B4 • February 2015

Vestavia Voice

School House Children’s author visits VHEW and VHEE

Playground project brings outdoor fun

Toddlers play on the outside surface of the new Saint Mark playground and enjoy their new playground toys. Photo by Janet Nebrig.

Children’s author Eric Litwin visited Vestavia Hills Elementary West and Vestavia Hills Elementary East in November. Photo courtesy of Leah Ayers.

Children’s author Eric Litwin visited Vestavia Hills Elementary West and Vestavia Hills Elementary East in November, delighting students and teachers alike with his energetic and musical presentations. Litwin is the New York Times bestselling author of the first four Pete the Cat picture books and the author of the new musical series, “The Nuts.” During his visit, he entertained audiences with exciting, interactive performances and stories from his books, including Pete the Cat: I Love My

White Shoes and Pete the Cat and His Four Groovy Buttons. He also treated everyone to some new material as he performed one of his new songs, entitled Purple Polka-Dotted Pants.

Litwin’s books have sold more than 1.5 million copies, been translated into seven languages, and won 15 state and national awards including a Theodor Geisel Seuss Honor Award. His visit was made possible by funds from the school’s PTO.

The early education ministries of Saint Mark United Methodist Church have made significant improvements to their two playgrounds, a project that has been years in the making. The kindergarten has added new play equipment over the last two years.

Last summer, the school made enhancements to the large natural play areas making the playground safer and more attractive. Near the oversized sand area, the kids love to roll and run in the newly planted grass. Catching leaves was a favorite game this fall.

KIDS, the mother’s day out program, has updated their playground to include

a separate play zone with rubberized surface, which is much safer for babies and toddlers. These little ones are able to play outside in a safe area designed especially for their age and interest. The play space on the two year old playground has also been increased and new equipment has been added to that play area. The children and their teachers have really enjoyed the improvements. The investment was money well spent on safety and fun.

Both Saint Mark educational programs will open registration to the public at 9 a.m. on Wednesday, Jan. 21. for the 20152016 school year. For more information, call 822-1312.

vestaviavoice.com

February 2015 • B5

VHEW students celebrate holidays with music Festive music of the season filled the gym at Vestavia Hills Elementary West in December as the third grade classes treated family, friends, and fellow students to their holiday musical, entitled “Celebrating Traditions Old and New.” Under the direction of West’s music teacher, Trudye Confessore, the students entertained their audiences with traditional carols as well as songs about Hanukkah and Kwanzaa.

They sang lyrics in four different languages and also in a wide range of musical styles, including spirituals, rounds, and partner songs. Some classes used instruments to accompany their songs while others featured dance styles from the 50s and 70s.

Students also brought technology into the picture as they sang “I’m Gonna Email Santa!”

At the program’s end, the third graders shared their wish for peace with the beautiful “Dona Nobis Pacem,” then sang their hopes that everyone would enjoy a “Holly Jolly Christmas!”

VHEW students dance to the “Reindeer Hop.” Photos courtesy of Alice Elmore.

Brook Izurieta named LPMS nominee for Alabama Teacher of the Year Brook Izurieta has been named Liberty Park Middle School’s nominee for Alabama Teacher of the Year. Izurieta has a bachelor’s degree in Spanish with a minor in history and a 6th - 12th certification from Birmingham-Southern College.

She also has a Master’s in ESL from UAB. Izurieta has taught seven years at Liberty Park Middle School and one year at Chelsea Middle School. In her classroom, she tries to create an inviting, interactive and creative environment to motivate students to learn Spanish.

“If they are having fun and creating they are learning, which inspires them to keep going at the high school level and beyond,” she said. “I also think that with learning a language it is important to consider all types of learners and I try to incorporate activities in my lessons each day that help learners of all learning styles.”

Currently her eighth-grade students are studying the family and the house. Students will begin creating family trees to describe their family in Spanish. The students will also create a house

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of dreams to learn vocabulary dealing with the house.

Her seventh grade students are learning adjectives for describing people and working on a Hispanic Heritage project. They are choosing a topic that interests them--people from a Spanish-speaking country, traditions, foods, history, places, etc.

They are creating a poster or presentation and writing a paper on their topic.

Brook Izurieta

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B6 • February 2015

Vestavia Voice

Competition gives food to families in need

Spirit of Math launches Vestavia Hills campus

Spirit of Math recently opened the doors on its first Alabama campus in Vestavia Hills. Photo courtesy of Spirit of Math.

By KATIE TURPEN

VHEW students filled boxes with canned food items during their school’s canned food drive Nov. 17-21. Photo courtesy of Alice Elmore.

In November, students at Vestavia Hills Elementary West brought canned food and other non-perishable food items to school to benefit local families in need. Each family received two bags of groceries and a frozen turkey. Vestavia Hills United Methodist Church supplied the frozen turkeys and additional food items. Unused canned goods were donated to the church (to be used in its food bank for families in need) in thanks for its assistance to the school

throughout the year.

VHEW classes competed to see which class in each grade could bring the most food items. The winners were Ms. Powers’ kindergarten class, Ms. Oliver’s first-grade class, Ms. Rigrish’s second-grade class, and Ms. Kearney’s third-grade class. As their prize, the students in these classes earned a popcorn party. When the week ended, students had collected 3,780 food items.

-Submitted by Alice Elmore.

Spirit of Math recently opened the doors on its first Alabama campus in Vestavia Hills. The program offers after-school math classes for students in the first through eleventh grade.

Founded in Toronto, Canada, Spirit of Math now operates 43 campuses across the country. The program is built on a teaching model that replaces traditional tutoring with strategic collaboration.

Teachers are university graduates who complete the company’s teacher training workshops and participate in master classes as well as ongoing peer reviews.

The Vestavia Hills Campus will operate from Birmingham International Church at 1380 Montgomery Hwy under the direction of Campus Director Killian Dortch.

“We’re thrilled to be able to bring the

Spirit of Math approach to Vestavia Hills” said Dortch. “We look forward to raising the level of expectation for our students, and seeing their excitement as they explore the curriculum.”

The Vestavia Hills campus held an open house in January, welcoming families, students, community leaders and educators who were interested in learning more about the program.

In Vestavia Hills, classes are currently offered Thursdays after-school and on Sunday afternoons for students in first through eighth grade.

Classes still have availability, so families wishing to enroll their child should contact the campus director at 460-3907 to schedule a student interview.

For more, visit spiritofmath.com/ Vestavia.

vestaviavoice.com

February 2015 • B7

LPMS dances the Charleston

Students at Liberty Park Middle School dance the Charleston. Photo courtesy of Linda Rummell.

The sixth grade students at Liberty Park Middle School recently participated in a flash mob of the once popular dance The Charleston. This activity went along with their study of the 1920s.

During homeroom time, the students gathered in the school gymnasium. When the music began, they got in lines and performed

the dance together. The Charleston was introduced in 1923, but became popular when singer Elisabeth Welch sang the song.

Jennifer Isbell, the LPMS sixth grade social studies teacher, taught the students the dance and organized the event.

-Submitted by Linda Rummell

VCS names 2014-2015 Teachers of the Year

VHHS Principal Tim Loveless, Secondary Teacher of the Year Jennifer Brown and Superintendent Sheila Phillips. Photo courtesy of White McGhee.

Superintendent Sheila Phillips, Elementary Teacher of the Year Susan McCarthy and VHEC Principal Marian Humphries. Photo courtesy of Whit McGhee.

Vestavia City Schools recently announced Susan McCarthy of Vestavia Hills Elementary Central and Jennifer Brown of Vestavia Hills High School as the 2014-15 Vestavia City Schools Elementary and Secondary Teachers of the Year.

VCS Teachers of the Year are put forward as State Board of Education District IV candidates for the Alabama Teacher of the Year Program, administered by the Alabama

State Board of Education and the Alabama State Department of Education. All schoollevel Teachers of the Year submitted packets outlining education history; professional biographies; community involvement; and philosophies of teaching.

The state-level selection committee will select the Alabama Teacher of the Year at an awards ceremony in May. -Submitted by Whit McGhee

B8 • February 2015

Vestavia Voice

Students honor their ancestry through songs

VHEW students play hand chimes to accompany “Home Sweet Home.” Photo courtesy of Alice Elmore.

Second graders at Vestavia Hills Elementary West celebrated immigration from the countries of their ancestors with a musical performance entitled “I am Proud to be an American.” The students treated classmates as well as family members to musical selections such as “You’re A Grand Old Flag,” “I am Thankful to be an American,” and “Blue, White and Red,” under the direction of VHEW’s music teacher, Trudye Confessore.

The children sang of making a new home in America, and also honored our veterans and flag with moving tributes. During each

performance, veterans in attendance were asked to stand and be recognized in appreciation of their service for our country. The students also incorporated hand chimes, Orff barred instruments, sign language and dance movements.

Prior to the performances, the students researched their ancestry, determining the countries from which their ancestors immigrated. They selected a country and crafted costumes for the musical performances based on the clothing their relatives may have worn when coming to America.

WRESTLING

CONTINUED from page B1 kids,” Steve Gaydosh said.

Former Hoover High coach Steve Knutson was one of those Gaydosh was close to.

And that’s how Jacob Gaydosh ended up coaching wrestling at Hoover. Knutson called Steve and asked if Jacob would be interested in joining his staff as an assistant.

“Jacob was right there when I got the call, and I asked him if he was interested and he said yes.”

After two years as an assistant, Jacob took over as head coach when Knutson left to go to graduate school.

The younger Gaydosh, now 36, had gone to the University of Tennessee at Chattanooga to wrestle, but his real dream was to be in sports broadcasting — specifically dreaming of ultimately landing at ESPN. But after a period of time interning for the CBS affiliate in Chattanooga and doing Friday night football highlights and working weekends, he came to the realization that having that kind of a career and a family wouldn’t jibe.

“I had no desire to ever coach,” Jacob said. But he helped out at a Chattanooga high school his last semester at UTC. Then he helped his dad some at Vestavia. He liked it enough that he decided to give teaching and coaching a shot.

Though he had enjoyed his internship at the station in Chattanooga, he also saw how much time the sports anchors spent away from home.

“I said if I do that and have a family one day I’d have a really hard time seeing my kids, and seeing them in athletics or band or whatever they did.”

And he has four children now.

“My wife and kids come to most of our matches and stuff.”

Hoover, which has a rich wrestling history with five state championships, is in something of a rebuilding mode. Gaydosh is working on getting the feeder programs — youth

leagues and middle schools — into good shape again, since he knows that is the way to continued success. He especially wants to get the youth league numbers up.

“I’m a Cubs fan,” he said, “so I use that as an analogy. Let’s get the farm system going and let’s go from there. For us long term, we’ve got to get the guys at the middle school program recruiting for us and teaching what we want them to teach, same techniques. We’ve got two guys at the middle schools doing a great job with that. We’re getting the youth league going again, so hopefully in the next three, four years, it’ll be like it was 10, 15 years ago. That’s why Vestavia and Thompson are so good.

“Hopefully, we can compete for a state championship in two to three years.”

The elder Gaydosh is justifiably proud of his son.

“He’s doing a great job. It’s a great situation. And that’s one thing I like about him being at Hoover, because my grandkids are around.”

That has its drawbacks, too.

“We competed a couple of years ago against each other, and it was a really close match but we won,” the Rebels coach said.

“And my granddaughter came up and said, ‘Congratulations, Pop, but I wanted my daddy to win.’”

What is it about wrestling that has its grip on the Gaydoshes?

“Who you are comes out,” Steve Gaydosh said. “Who you are as a person comes out on the mat. If you’ve got a weakness, it’s going to come out. If you’re going to be really good, you’ve got to do everything right.

The best wrestlers are great students too.

It’s about character, discipline, habits that you’ve developed in life, that’s what makes the difference between winning and losing a one-point match in overtime.

“Ultimately, what we’re teaching these guys are to develop habits that will make them successful the rest of their lives. Get a good job, be a good father, a good husband.”

vestaviavoice.com

February 2015 • B9

VHHS students surprise 4-year-old cancer survivor with trip to Disney World

By KATIE TURPEN VHHS students celebrated the success of their fall fundraising season on Thursday, Jan. 15 at 10 a.m. with a special moment for one young cancer patient. Led by the Student Government Association, the students surprised 4-year-old Connor of Birmingham with the news that he will be traveling to Walt Disney World in Orlando.

Each fall, the VHHS SGA selects a local charity to raise funds during the school’s fall philanthropy drive. This year, students chose Magic Moments and fundraised

through activities such as powder-puff football game ticket sales, a talent show and more. They raised a total of $21,500 for the organization.

“The ‘Rebel edge’ is alive and well, and we are excited to have the opportunity to make a magic moment happen for a deserving child in our area,” SGA President James Harris said.

Connor, who will turn 5 on Jan. 22, was diagnosed in August 2014 with a brain tumor. Since then, he has been in the hospital or to daily doctors’ appointments, undergoing rounds of intense chemotherapy and radiation. Currently, Connor is in remission from his cancer, and his prognosis is positive. During the January

Led by the Student Government Association, VHHS students surprised 4-year-old Connor of Birmingham in January with the news that he will be traveling to Walt Disney World in Orlando. Photos by Katie Turpen.

event, the entire VHHS student body sang “Happy Birthday” to him.

“It is so meaningful when young adults get involved with our mission of bringing joy to children suffering with chronic, life-threatening diseases,” said Joyce

Spielberger, executive director of Magic Moments. “Through their work with Magic Moments, they are able to see and understand firsthand the impact their fundraising efforts have, and in turn, maybe stop for a moment and count the blessings in

their own lives.”

Magic Moments is a Birmingham-based nonprofit organization providing non-medical wishes to critically ill children ages 4-18 living in Alabama. For more, visit magicmoments.org.

VHCS becomes Weather-Ready Nation Ambassador Vestavia Hills City Schools recently became the first school system in Alabama to be named a Weather-Ready Nation Ambassador.

This program, overseen by the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), forms a two-way relationship between VHCS and the National Weather Service to help build weather preparedness.

“We try to look closer at weather trends in the days leading up to a storm now,” VHCS Director of Safety and Security David Howard said. “In

the January snowstorm, we had multiple days in a row of sub-freezing weather. When the temperature stays that low, a dusting of snow has a much greater impact on the ground than it normally would.”

The review of the district’s weather policy led to the following updates: }} VHCS will now consult directly with meteorologists at the National Weather Service in Birmingham via a live chat as a Weather-Ready Nation Ambassador. District

administrators will also communicate with city officials and other over-the-mountain superintendents to ensure that school closings and delays are conducted smoothly. }} Parents will receive notifications about weather events through VHCS’ rapid notification system (SchoolCast) as well as social media and local media sources. Whenever possible, the district will now alert parents to the possibility of a closing or delay before a final decision has been made.

}} Whenever possible, delays and early closings will occur two hours from normal opening and closing times. Buses will adjust their arrival times accordingly. Schools will make every effort to serve all meals planned for the day when a delay or closing occurs. Field trips scheduled for the day of a weather event will be canceled. Normal checkout procedures will remain in effect.

-Submitted by Whit McGhee

B10• February 2015

Vestavia Voice

Sports Legendary tennis coach Becker elected to AHSAA Hall of Fame

By DAVID KNOX Nancy Becker knew the score when it came to coaching her Vestavia Hills girls tennis teams.

“We had some talented girls who were really good singles players but they didn’t know how to play doubles,” Becker said. “And I said, ‘Look, it’s two points for winning in doubles and it’s one point for singles. We’ve got to learn to play doubles, because that’s what wins state championships.’ It’s a no-brainer, so that’s what I did.”

Becker, 74, is set for induction into the Alabama High School Athletic Association Hall of Fame in Montgomery on March 23. The 12 members of the Class of 2015 will be honored at a banquet at the Renaissance Hotel and Spa at the Convention Center.

Of course, she had to persuade the girls to do it her way at first.

One way was by showing them a simple wellplaced shot from her could tie them in knots.

That convinced them that maybe she knew what she was talking about.

“They didn’t know about the strategy of doubles. I’d have them hit me balls and I’d hit it back. I said in doubles, it’s not how hard you hit it, it’s where you put it. And that’s all we did, work on doubles.”

She also instructed them to watch their opponents as they warmed up to figure out their weaknesses.

But she also emphasized something else: The concept of a team in what most of them saw as an individual sport. When your match was over, you stayed and watched your teammates play.

While other teams’ girls might be off chatting

Former VHHS girls tennis coach Nancy Becker flips through scrapbooks made for her by the various tennis teams she coached through the years at the high school. Photo by Katie Turpen.

and talking with family and friends, the Vestavia girls would be rooting for their teammates.

And while most of them had their own coaches as they worked on their individual play, team

practices became the order of the day.

“Most of them worked with their own coaches. I said, ‘No, we can’t do that. We work as a team every week on nothing but doubles.’”

Winning at doubles did lead to 10 state championships, and left her as one of the most successful girls tennis coaches in AHSAA history.

The other members of ASHAA’s 25th HOF

vestaviavoice.com

February 2015 • B11

Nancy Becker stands in her home in front of a wall of awards. Her girls tennis teams won more than 200 matches in her 23-year career at Vestavia and several prestigious tournaments. Photo by Katie Turpen.

class are basketball coaches Steve Jefferson, Jack Doss and Bobby Wright, football coaches Steve Rivers, Doug Goodwin and John Tatum, athletics director Myra Miles, track official Houston Young, and administrators Alan Mitchell and Ron Ingram. Selected in the “Old Timer” category was Geneva County football coach James D. Chesteen.

The 18-member Hall of Fame Committee made the selections from 50 nominations on the Hall of Fame ballot. The Hall of Fame is located at the AHSAA office in Montgomery.

“I was really surprised when Steve Savarese’s secretary called,” Becker said of the phone call from the AHSAA executive director. “She said, ‘Would you hold for Mr. Savarese?’ and I thought what would he want? I mean, it honestly

never entered my mind. And when he got on the phone and said I want to congratulate you as a new inductee into the Hall of Fame – well, I’m not at a loss for words much, but I really did not know what to say. It was a shock. A really nice surprise.”

Becker began her teaching career as a business education teacher in Jacksonville, Fla., in 1962.

She moved to John Carroll High School in 1965 -- she started a girls tennis program there before taking a 10-year sabbatical to raise her son -- and then arrived at Vestavia Hills High in 1984.

Her Rebels tennis teams won 10 Class 6A state championships, had eight runner-up finishes, finished third four times and won 20 sectional championships. Her teams won more than 200 matches in her 23-year career at Vestavia

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and several prestigious tournaments, including the Chattanooga Rotary Tournament three times.

She came out of retirement in 2013 to serve as an assistant coach and helped Vestavia Hills win the state championship. She was named National Federation of High Schools State Tennis Coach of the Year in 2008 and 2010.

Despite that resume, her sports love came relatively late in life; she didn’t pick up a racket until she was an adult.

“I became a tennis bum,” Becker said. “I had a 10-year sabbatical from teaching when my son was born. A friend of mine loaned me a racket and said ‘come play tennis with us.’ I went to a clinic with Les Longshore at Mountain Brook Swim and Tennis and just loved it.”

She helped form the ladies tennis league

in Birmingham and had what she called her greatest experience playing doubles with her daughter Tracey in the Equitable Family Tennis Challenge, which was held at the U.S. Open, representing the South. Tracey was a junior at Mountain Brook and the top-rated player in the state. “She was the youngest player there. That still is the most exciting thing I’ve ever done.”

By the time she got to VHHS, she figured she was done with the tennis and traveling to junior events and so forth, but before long, the principal approached her about coaching the girls team.

She tried to say no, but she also played tennis with mothers of the girls on the team, and at their urging she reluctantly agreed.

And the rest is history.

“But I loved the girls, we traveled all over the state,” Becker said with a smile. “Really proud of winning the Chattanooga tournaments because they had teams from all over the country.”

A couple of other characteristics aided her success.

“You know, I’m really competitive,” she said.

“You know how some people say they don’t care? -- if you’re going to play, why not win? I don’t like losing.”

“Another thing we did was we worked together as a team, but we bonded, the girls and I, on and off the court. I loved them. I still see some of them. Some of my favorite people are the girls I coached. Some of them are teachers in the system. The girls made scrapbooks of all the years I coached. I’ve given some of them to some of the girls I thought would like them and they were thrilled to get them. I still have about six of them at home and my grandchildren love to look at them.”

“They were just awesome, and funny! – gosh.

But you know they would confide in me sometimes before their parents because they knew first of all, anybody who knows me knows I tell it like it is.”

Understanding that each girl was different was also a key to her success.

“Some of them I knew not to even go down there and bother them. I knew they’d figure it out. I’d just make them nervous. Some I had to go down there every time they switched sides.

You’ve got to be with them and learn who they are. All that’s so important.”

Vestavia Voice

B12 • February 2015

Library adds 3D printer, researches trend of “maker spaces”

By REBECCA WALDEN

The Children’s Department hosts Maker Monday each Monday night from 6:30 to 7:30 p.m. Kids and parents work together at various stations to make and take various items. Photo courtesy of Taneisha Tucker.

The Vestavia Hills Library in the Forest is making plans to add a 3D printer for patron use, and also researching the possibility of adding a maker space to the facility.

In December, residents received the Library’s annual mailer, highlighting why the Library is the place for access and technology, as well as a place to meet and study.

Library Foundation Executive Director Lauren Daniel said the expansion of a maker space is a natural extension of the services that fall under that theme.

“As the Library in the Forest approaches its fifth anniversary, we refuse to rest on our laurels,” said Daniel. “Instead, the Library Foundation is committed to cultivating a dynamic community center that is relevant to all. As a result, we are planning for the future and exploring how we may best meet the ever-changing needs of our patrons.”

The addition of a 3D printer to the Library’s circulation space will be just the first of many changes the Library plans to roll out during 2015.

“We are making these purchases to gauge if indeed patrons will be interested in a maker type space,” said

Library Director Taneisha K. Tucker.

According to the American Library Association, maker spaces have become a popular addition to libraries of all types, including academic, public, school and special libraries, for the hands-on learning and creation opportunities they offer.

Library Board of Trustee member Jimmy Bartlett said he believes the addition blends perfectly with the Library’s role in the larger community.

“This space will provide access to unique, cutting-edge technology that will be available in a pleasant and collaborative environment, accessible to everyone in the Vestavia community,” he said.

Tucker added that after the completion of staff training, the Library will make the 3D printer and its related materials available for any curious patrons who wish to come in and experience it at their leisure.

“We will incorporate it into our daily offerings as more of a passive program before we set policies, guidelines and procedures for use,” said Tucker.

She added that each department throughout the Library will align its program offerings with the new space, scheduling monthly “make and take” opportunities for patrons of all ages.

Visit us on

vestaviavoice.com

February 2015 • B13

Vestavia Hills Real Estate Listings MLS #

Zip

Address

Status

Price

619403

35216

1800 Laurel Road

New

$400,000

618826

35216

4 Berrywood Drive, Unit 4

New

$119,000

619233

35216

1906 Laurel Road, Unit C1

New

$134,000

618988

35223

3422 Stoneleigh Drive

New

$230,000

619209

35243

3416 Jones Drive

New

$235,000

619200

35243

3017 Sunview Drive

New

$265,000

619260

35216

1528 Ashley Wood Circle

New

$279,900

619373

35216

3340 Buckhead Drive

New

$699,000

619104

35242

4016 Alston Way

New

$339,000

619311

35243

2004 Ivy Glenn Cove

New

$359,900

619227

35242

711 Provence Drive

New

$420,000

619163

35242

815 Provence Drive

New

$479,000

1800 Laurel Road

3340 Buckhead Drive

Real estate listings sent to Vestavia Voice by Vinnie Alonzo of RE/MAX Advantage South on Jan. 20.

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B14 • February 2015

Vestavia Voice

Calendar Vestavia Hills Events Feb. 5: Movie Premiere: 8 Days.

6:30 p.m. Vestavia Carmike Theater. Film will be hosted by Collage Designer Consignment to bring awareness of human trafficking happening in Birmingham. $12.01. Visit tugg.com/events/12578 or call 822-3991.

Feb. 6: Artists Incorporated First Friday Reception. 5:30-8:30 p.m. Artists Incorporated, 3365 Morgan Drive. Free.

Feb. 12: In-State College Fair.

11:30 a.m. Vestavia Hills High School.

Visit vestavia.k12.al.us.

Feb. 13: Technology Conference at Vestavia Hills Schools. No school for students. Visit vestavia.k12.al.us.

School. 11 a.m. Vestavia Hills High School.

School. 10 a.m. Vestavia Hills High School.

Feb. 21: Vestavia Hills Varsity Baseball vs. Cullman High School. 4 p.m. Vestavia Hills High School.

Feb. 28: Vestavia Hills Varsity Baseball vs. Thompson High School. 5:30 p.m. Vestavia Hills High School.

Feb. 20: Vestavia Hills Varsity Baseball vs. Hartselle High School. 6:30 p.m. Vestavia Hills High School.

Feb. 21: 2nd Annual Designed to Shine Women’s Conference.

8:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. Vestavia Hills United Methodist Church. Attendance is open to any woman of college age and above. Order tickets at vhumc.org.

Feb. 21: Vestavia Hills Varsity Baseball vs. Hazel Green High

Feb. 28: Vestavia Hills Varsity Baseball vs. Spanish Fort High

Feb. 28: Dinner & Diamonds.

7 p.m. Regions Field. Event will provide an opportunity to celebrate the accomplishments of the Vestavia City Schools Foundation and ensure funds for the foundation to continue operation. $80. Sponsorships available. Visit vestaviafoundation.org.

Feb. 20: Vestavia Hills Varsity Baseball vs. Sparkman High School. 4 p.m. Vestavia Hills High School.

Vestavia Hills Chamber of Commerce

Vestavia Hills United Methodist Church.

March 6: The White Rose Ball.

6-11 p.m. Vestavia Country Club. Visit whiteroseball.com.

March 6-7: Market on the Mountain Consignment Sale.

Friday 9 a.m.-6 p.m. Saturday 9 a.m.-2 p.m. Mountaintop Community Church.

Visit marketonthemountain.com.

Vestavia Hills City Council Feb. 9: Senior Citizens Luncheon.

11:30 a.m. Vestavia Hills Civic Center, 1973 Merryvale Road. Visit vhal.org.

Feb. 17: Parks and Recreation Board Meeting. 7-8 a.m. Vestavia Hills Civic Center, 1973 Merryvale Road. Visit vhal.org.

Feb. 11: ROI Professional Networking Meeting. 7:30-8:30 a.m. Vestavia Hills Chamber of Commerce Board Room. Visit business.vestaviahills.org.

Feb. 9: City Council Meeting. 5-7 p.m. Vestavia Hills Municipal Center Council Chambers, 513 Montgomery Highway. Visit vhal. org.

Feb. 19: Board of Zoning Adjustment. 6-7 p.m. Vestavia Hills Municipal Center Council Chambers, 513 Montgomery Highway. Visit vhal.org.

Feb. 17: Business Development Committee Meeting. 8 a.m.

Vestavia Hills Chamber of Commerce. Visit business.vestaviahills.org.

Feb. 12: Planning & Zoning Commission. 6-7 p.m. Vestavia Hills Municipal Center Council Chambers, 513 Montgomery Highway. Visit vhal.org.

Feb. 23: City Council Meeting. 5-7 p.m. Vestavia Hills Municipal Center Council Chambers, 513 Montgomery Highway. Visit vhal. org.

1975 Merryvale Road Feb. 10: Chamber of Commerce Luncheon. 11:30 a.m.-1 p.m. Vestavia Country Club. Network with other Chamber members and hear speakers on a wide variety of topics. Reserve space by 4 p.m. on Feb. 6. $18 advance registration, $25 late reservations. Visit business. vestaviahills.org.

March 5-6: Whale of a Sale.

Thursday, 5-9 p.m. Friday, 9 a.m.-2 p.m.

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February 2015 • B15

Calendar Vestavia Hills Library in the Forest Adults Feb. 3: Lit Lunch Bunch: Adult Book Group. Noon. Will discuss All the Light We Cannot See by Anthony Doerr.

Feb. 6: NeedleWorks. 1 p.m. Knit, cross-stitch or crochet. All levels of expertise welcome.

Feb. 10: Ms. Olivia’s Evening Reads. 6 p.m. Historical Room.

Feb. 12: OLLI Committee MeetingMembers Only. 11 a.m. Community Room.

Feb. 12: OLLI Bonus Program. 1:30 p.m.

Learn about beer, chemistry and the art of zymurgy.

Feb. 12: Cahaba Heights Book Group for Adults. 6:30 p.m. BAM Sports Grill. Will discuss Station Eleven by Emily St. John Mendel.

Feb. 13: Adult Trivia Tournament Series: Lord of the Rings. 7 p.m. Community Room.

Feb. 14: Coen Brothers Film Series: Fargo. 3 p.m. 17 years or older to attend. I.D. required.

Feb. 26: Friends of the Library Presents.

10 a.m. Community Room.

Teens Feb. 4: Film-making in the Forest. 4:30 p.m. Create films for the library for fun and for national competitions.

Make it through the library’s dungeon.

Feb. 17: Otaku Time! 4 p.m. Read, discuss and exchange manga with fellow manga lovers.

Feb. 18: Studio 1221. 4 p.m. Make crafts and artwork with the teen department.

Feb. 24: Anime Movie Night. 4 p.m. Watch anime and make candy sushi to eat.

Kids

Feb. 6, 13, 20, 27: Open Gaming. 4 p.m.

Play games on Wii, Wii U and Xbox 360.

Mondays: Tween Scene. 3:30 p.m. Join us for crafts, activities and volunteer opportunities.

Feb. 10: Fandom Tuesday. 4 p.m. Check out this month’s chosen fandom with movies, crafts and themed food.

Mondays: Maker Mondays. 6:30 p.m. Pick a station and create something amazing each week.

Feb. 11, 25: Teen Writing Group. 4 p.m.

The Teen Department is offering a writing class where teens can build writing skills and provide feedback.

Feb. 14: Minecraft in the Forest. 1 p.m.

Tuesdays: Together with Twos. 9:30 a.m. and 10:30 a.m. Appropriate for toddlers with short stories, songs and lots of movement.

Tuesdays: PJ Story Time. 6:30 p.m. Come in your PJs and enjoy story time.

Wednesdays: Story Friends. 10:30 a.m.

Stories and songs for preschool children 5 and under.

Wednesdays: Skit-tory time. 3:30 p.m.

Join Ms. Carol for skits, puppet shows and more.

Designed for school-age children.

Thursdays: L.I.F.T. 9:30 a.m. Social play for preschoolers and their caregivers.

Thursdays: Book Babies. 9:30 a.m. birth-12 months, 10:30 a.m.13-18 months. Story time for children and caregivers. Registration required.

Feb. 13: Preschool Pals Love the Zoo. 10:30 a.m. Crafts, snacks and action activities round out this animal program.

Feb. 14: Lego Wars. 11 a.m. Build Legos and win prizes. First grade and up.

Feb. 17: Family Night in February Welcomes Jr. Madness. 6 p.m. Jr. Madness makes being a kid and loving music fun for everyone.

Area Events All month: Small Treasures: Rembrandt, Vermeer, Hals and Their Contemporaries. Tuesday-Saturday 10 a.m.-5 p.m., Sunday noon-5 p.m. Birmingham Museum of Art. The exhibition will feature works of the greatest masters of the Dutch and Flemish Golden Age. Visit artsbma.org.

Feb. 5: Birmingham Art Crawl. 5-9 p.m. Birmingham Historic Loft District. A monthly happening showcasing Birmingham’s pool of creative talent. Visit birminghamartcrawl.com.

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Feb. 6: Sybarite5. 7:30-10:30 p.m. Samford University. The string quartet will perform at Brock Recital Hall. $20. Call 726-2853.

Feb. 7: Heart 2 HeART. 6-9 p.m. BridgeStreet

Gallery and Loft. aTeam’s Heart 2 HeART program supports children with pediatric cancer by pairing them will well known and talented professional artists in an effort to celebrate and inspire them. Visit ateamministries.org.