Vestavia Voice vol 1 iss 7 November 2013 by Starnes Media

VestaviaVoice.com

November 2013

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Volume 1 | Issue 7 | November 2013

Run for the Hills

Paying it forward Local businessman quietly honors his brothers in service

Meet up with hundreds of other Vestavia residents at this year’s Run for the Hills. Hosted by the Sunrise Rotary Club, the race is a great way to support Vestavia Hills City Schools.

Community page 18

National Night Out Sergeant Bradac (Mikos’ cousin) stands with Sergeant Mike Mikos, a third-generation soldier who played a key role in Operation Noble Eagle and Operation Iraqi Freedom. Photo courtesy of Mike Mikos.

By REBECCA WALDEN

National Night Out celebrated its 30th year of providing free family fun for the entire community. Find photos from this year’s event inside.

Community page 21

INSIDE Sponsors ........... 4 News ................... 5 Business ............ 6 Food ................... 8

Try to ask Staff Sergeant Mike Mikos about his military service, and he’ll look at you sideways. Thank him for his service? He’ll give you a polite nod, and then maneuver the conversation to

another topic — any other topic. A third-generation soldier, Mikos played an integral part of both Operation Noble Eagle and Operation Iraqi Freedom. While many of his friends were settling into their careers, Mikos was engaged with the 187th Fighter

Wing of the Air National Guard with the singular focus of targeting and isolating scud site activity. The unit quickly distinguished itself when, in the winter of 2003, they became the first Alabama Air National Guard unit to establish a bare base in areas of conflict.

See VETERAN | page 28

Opportunities abound for Cahaba Heights Community seen as prime target for new development Improvements shown in this rendering of Cahaba Heights Road and Dolly Ridge Road include the addition of sidewalks and crosswalks, intersection improvements, frontage landscaping, gateway signs and banners, ornamental lighting around intersections and the reuse of a vacant business on the southeast corner. Image from the 2008 Cahaba Heights Community Plan, courtesy of the City of Vestavia Hills.

Community ....... 11 School House .. 24 Sports ............... 29 Calendar ........... 30

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Still, the normally gregarious Mikos is reluctant to get into details. It’s not to be evasive, but rather out of solemn respect and regard for the vets who, in his view, accomplished more, endured

By KATIE TURPEN As a Cahaba Heights resident for 23 years, Starr Rogers can describe the value of her community in one word: convenience. “The proximity to The Summit, all the different grocery stores, the post office and all

the nice restaurants,” Rogers said. “It’s just close enough in to downtown to be convenient.” Despite the ideal location, she thinks Vestavia Hills needs to take a closer look at its hidden community across U.S. 280. “Cahaba Heights needs some spring cleaning,” Rogers said. “The infrastructure

seems poor. Vestavia Hills needs to put more money into this community and spruce it up.” Rogers, who lives in Wellington Park near Overton Road, recalls going to a friend’s house in central Vestavia Hills and noticing

See CAHABA HEIGHTS | page 28

2 â&#x20AC;˘ November 2013

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November 2013 • 3

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4 • November 2013

Vestavia Voice

About Us Photo of the Month

Please Support our Community Partners

Vestavia’s very own outdoor cycle lead, Steve Hicks, recently raced in the Leadville 100 MTB race this Saturday in Leadville, Colo. This was it. The race of all races. One hundred miles across the high-altitude, extreme terrain of the Colorado Rockies. This event was created for only the most determined athletes. Starting at 10,152 feet and climbing to 12,424 feet, he persevered til the end! Here he is, with Lifetime Fitness CEO Bahram Akradi. Photo courtesy of Steve Hicks.

A Little Something (9) Activ Care Living, Mount Royal Towers (7) Alabama Allergy & Asthma Center (17) Alabama Outdoors (6)

Editor’s Note By Rebecca Walden Gastronomes, start Being aware of my your palates. Just in case blessings isn’t enough. And the leftover Halloween if I’m being really honest, candy isn’t signal enough, no amount of selfless acts the season of wretched will be “enough.” It’s this excess consumption is very awareness, shared by officially here. Grab your people of faith, that makes cookbooks and your the month following this one antacids. Here we go. so very pivotal. First things first. Even so, God’s grace However you plan to serve does not mean it’s okay for up your bird — roasted, me to coast along, casually Walden brined, fried, whatever expressing thankfulness — please, oh please, whenever the mood strikes. remove the giblets. Preferably, this is Instead, I want to be the blessing. done before your brother has doused it Recently, and very unexpectedly, I in goodness knows how many gallons had a chance to do just that. of wickedly hot oil in your very dry, I am in year I can’t even remember very pine straw laden (read – kindling) of my 10-year commitment to the Junior backyard. League of Birmingham. As my children Ok, now that you know the highlight – have come along and life has gotten err – lowlight of my 2012 Thanksgiving busier, I will admit that my overall menu, let’s get onto the real reason for enthusiasm for the group has waned. It’s this month. another meeting. Another commitment. It’s about gratitude and reflection. Yet another time I have to lean on my And walking your talk. husband to watch the kids. We all lead busy lives, and for most At least that’s how I felt until I met of us, it’s taxing enough to maintain our Alfreida Spencer. households and our work lives, without Alfreida is 10 years old. On the taking on the needs of others. weekends, she often walks to the West But, as the very true adage tells End Branch of the Birmingham Public us, “To whom much is given much is Library. That is where I met her, when expected.” she attended a workshop I led about It’s all fine and well to post on The Watsons Go to Birmingham – 1963, Facebook each day of November one part of the Junior League’s Page to particular thing for which you are Stage program with the Birmingham thankful. It’s quite another to express Children’s Theatre. that gratitude by paying it forward. At the end of the workshop, she asked Generally speaking, this is well me where the BJCC is located and said beyond my comfort zone. I have all she’d never been there. I wrote down kinds of excuses for why I don’t make the street address and phone number, the time. Chief among them? I’m too and asked her if she had a way to get busy. I’ll write a check instead. I’ll do it there that day. She shook her head. I later. And so on. wrote down my number and told her They are all versions of the same if she could not find a way to get there sorry reason, and I know it. that day, to call me and we would find

Baker Lamps & Linens (31) Bedzzz Express (2)

transportation for her. She then asked for a reminder about the performance date. When I said, “Oct. 6”, she replied “Oh good! Oct. 20 is my birthday.” Our conversation continued: “Oh wow! How old will you be?” “11.” “What are you going to do for your birthday?” “Nothing.” “Nothing? Why not?” “My mom can’t afford it.” At that point, Alfreida went over to another part of the library, and I went to speak to librarian Diane Blaylock, at which point Operation: Big Deal Birthday Party sprang into action. I was actually a little nervous about it, but the event itself, complete with balloons, cake, goofy games and birthday presents, turned out better than I could have imagined. I am thankful, indeed. Thankful for community role models and personal heroes of mine, like Ashley Curry, who routinely shows me week after week what it means to “be the blessing” to others. I am thankful I met Alfreida, and I will continue to keep me eyes and heart open to other Alfreidas with whom my path may intersect. Have your turkey and eat it too. Count your blessings, even. Without it, there is no gratitude. But don’t stop there. Join me in pushing yourself just a little bit out of what is comfortable and familiar. Be the blessing, and be blessed.

Birmingham School of Music (12)

Warmly, Rebecca

Liberty Animal Hospital (27)

Birmingham Speech and Hearing Associates (21) Bistro V (29) Bromberg & Company, Inc. (14) Brookwood Medical Center (8) Brother Bryan Mission (26) BYO Wireless (23) Byrom Building Corp. (15) Cafe Iz (28) California Closets (19) Chickadee (9) Children’s of Alabama (7) Decorating Dens Interiors (30) Dermatology & Skin Care Center (20) Fi-Plan Partners (10) Four Corners Custom Framing (13) Hair By Maryam (18) Hendrick Hoover Auto Mall (20, 30) Jimmie Hale Mission (21) John Sasser Opticians (24) Junior League of Birmingham (29) Kim Mangham-Barelare SouthStar Properties (14) Kool Korner Sandwiches (24) Leaf & Petal (13) Marco’s Pizza (22) Merle Norman - Vestavia (19) Mr. Chen’s Authentic Chinese (18) Pappas’ Grill (12) Remax Southern Homes - Becky Hicks (16)

Contact Information: Hoover Sun #3 Office Park Circle, Suite 316 Birmingham, AL 35223 313-1780 dan@vestaviavoice.com Publisher : Executive Editor : Creative Director : Editor : Managing Editor : Advertising Manager : Sales and Distribution : Copy Editor: Contributing Writers: Interns : Published by :

Dan Starnes Jeff Thompson Keith McCoy Rebecca Walden Madoline Markham Matthew Allen Rhonda Smith Warren Caldwell Michelle Salem Haynes Louisa Jeffries Intisar Seraaj-Sabree Katie Turpen Sydney Cromwell Lauren Moriarty Vestavia Voice LLC

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

editorial or graphic content without prior permission is prohibited. The Vestavia Voice is designed to inform the Vestavia community of area school, family and community events. Information in the Vestavia Voice is gathered from sources considered reliable but the accuracy cannot be guaranteed. All articles/photos submitted become the property of the Vestavia Voice. We reserve the right to edit articles/photos as deemed necessary and are under no obligation to publish or return photos submitted. Inaccuracies or errors should be brought to the attention of the publisher at (205) 3131780 or by email.

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Royal Automotive (32) Sarver Orthodontics (20) Serra Independence (3) Southern Trophy Properties (25) The Blue Willow (18) The Cuckoo’s Nest (16) The Ridge Eat & Drink (23) Thimbles (19) Tutoring Club Cahaba Heights (24) UAB Medicine (11) Urban Style Salon (17) Vestavia Hills Baptist Church (22) Vestavia Hills Lutheran Church (28) Vision Gymnastics (15) Wood & Spooner (12)

November 2013 • 5

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News

Mayor’s Minute

By Alberto “Butch” Zaragoza Right now, plans are in full swing for Holiday in the Hills. Festivities begin with respective area kickoff parties, with the first on Nov. 14 at the Library in the Forest, and the second on Nov. 21 at the New Merkle House. We have many merchants that have come on board for these programs, and we look forward to welcoming you and your families. The City’s functions will begin Dec. 4 with a tree-lighting ceremony at the Vestavia Hills Civic Center, featuring special music by our own Cas McWaters. On Dec. 7, we will host our annual Breakfast with Santa at the Vestavia Lodge. Dec. 8, we will have the City’s annual Christmas Parade in Liberty Park. In other news: We do have a contract on the old library and are currently in the 90-day due diligence period. In light of the fact that we have other potential buyers for that same property, we have reduced the standard 180-day due diligence period back to 90 days. Should they need more time, they have the opportunity to add another 90 days for an additional fee. The Library has received a $300,000 tech grant from the State ADECA Program. Right now, the Library is consulting with its board on the facility’s equipment needs to determine the most effective allocation of those funds. There is movement on the pedestrian bridge project (walkover) to connect

the Vestavia Hills Civic Center area to the Library in the Forest. A tentatively designed bridge has been submitted to ALDOT. Gresham Smith is doing the design work along with UAB. We’re hoping that within 18 months it will be out of ALDOT review so that we can proceed. Bridge funding is an 80/20 match, with 80 percent funded federally, and the City of Vestavia funding the remaining 20 percent. This is such a wonderful time of year in our community. With our recently held National Night Out, which was very well attended, to the upcoming Holidays in the Hills events, there are so many opportunities to get out and enjoy fellowship with friends and neighbors. I especially want to thank our police and fire departments for their efforts to attend and show off the police and fire equipment that night, which allowed our citizens to meet those personnel. I also want to thank Vestavia Hills United Methodist for allowing us to use their parking lot, and a special thanks to the sponsors we had for that event. I look forward to seeing you at Holidays in the Hills. Your Mayor,

Butch Zaragoza

Dinner to benefit ovarian cancer foundation Clothing designer Judith March has taken on the teal cause. Each year she designs a specialized dress for ovarian cancer research and awareness and donates $10 to the Laura Crandall Brown Ovarian Cancer Foundation for every garment sold. This year she is selling teal, ovarian-cancer-awareness tank tops and T-shirts that can be purchased at various Judith March retailers. The teal will take on a more formal tone at the fourth annual Taste of Teal Nov. 7 at 6 p.m. at the Vestavia Country Club, which will benefit the Laura Crandall Brown Ovarian Cancer Foundation. The evening will raise funds and awareness for ovarian cancer research and prevention, while also honoring Laura Crandall Brown and other ovarian cancer victims and survivors. There will be a sit-down dinner, wine tasting, silent auction and live auction.

Founded in December of 2009, the mission of the foundation is to provide funding to support research for early detection and treatment of ovarian cancer while raising awareness and educating the public about the disease. March’s involvement with the foundation stems from a relationship that designer and Birmingham native Megan Duncan’s family has with the Crandall family. Duncan’s mother, Kim Crane, is also on the Taste of Teal planning committee. “We are honored each year to be a part of this event and good cause,” Duncan said. “We want Laura’s legacy to not only live through the foundation, but also through the garments we make each year, with her and other ovarian cancer victims in mind.” Tickets to the event are $50 and can be purchased at ThinkofLaura.org. For more on Judith March, visit judithmarch.com.

How to change anyone – or any situation Who do you want to change for the better? Len Corcoran will teach a session Nov. 12 at 6 p.m. on how to create harmony in any situation or person with comfortable and effective techniques this month. His methods with spouses, children, bosses and any other relationship. Corcoran has been conducting leadership, public speaking, sales and management training sessions for more than 40 years. He is also author Of Patterns for Change; Patterns for Supervising People (CD and workbook); Marketing’s Ultimate Sales Track (It’s a M.U.S.T.); and So You Have to Give a Speech Tomorrow all-day workshop. Vestavia Toastmasters is sponsoring this and other one-hour sessions like these on the second

Tuesday of the month at Mr. Wang’s on 217 Lakeshore Parkway. The Toastmasters have sponsored other sessions on active listening, team building and changing your habits. Vestavia Toastmasters’ mission is to provide a supportive and positive learning experience in which members are empowered to develop communication and leadership skills, resulting in greater self-confidence and personal growth. Vestavia Toastmasters meets every first and third Tuesday of the month from 6-7 p.m. at the Vestavia Hills Board of Education building at 1204 Montgomery Highway in Room 204. Vestavia Toastmasters is one of Toastmasters International’s 14,320 clubs in 122 countries. To sign up for the presentation, visit vestavia. toastmastersclubs.org. Space is limited.

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Now Open DrakeCarroll Interiors is now open at 4213 Dolly Ridge Road. The business is owned by Donnie Drake. 968-8132. drakecarroll.com

Coming Soon T. Wayne’s BBQ Smokehouse is set to be open by November in the space formerly occupied by Chris’ BBQ & Grill at 2409 Acton Road, Suite 153.

979-1533.

Expansions Bistro V, 521 Montgomery Highway, Suite 113, is expanding into the space formerly occupied by HPRC Physical Therapy and aims to open it by mid-October. 823-1505. bistro-v.com.

Relocations M&M Jewelers, currently located at 4851 Cahaba River Road, Suite 105, is moving to 440 Inverness Corners next to the new Winn-Dixie and will be open by Nov. 11. 970-0570.

Yarn and fabrics store In The Making will be moving to a newly constructed building soon at 4232 Dolly Ridge Road. In the meantime, it has re-opened in a temporary space in The Heights Village, 3118 Heights Village, on Cahaba Heights Road next to Flower Buds. 298-1309. shopinthemaking.com.

Anniversaries A Little Something Gift Boutique, 3168 Heights Village, is celebrating its one year anniversary with a sales event on Nov. 5. The store will feature give-aways and offer drinks and hors d’oeures that day. 970-2077. alittlesomethingbham.com.

News and Accomplishments

Business news

to share? Columbiana Road Pet Wellness Center, 2076 Columbiana Road, now offers agility training for dogs and grooming and styling for cats and dogs. Agility training is being offered by James Dalton Ward, and Alex Copeland is their new pet stylist. 824-1575.

Amanda LeBlanc, owner of organizing company The Amandas at 3160 Heights Village in Cahaba Heights, has signed on to continue as a national spokesperson for Organized Living, a national company that sells organization systems for closets, storage spaces and more. 970-1087. theamandas.com.

Coming Soon

Business news Expansion

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

Coming Soon

Expansion Email dan@vestaviavoice.com

November 2013 • 7

8 • November 2013

Vestavia Voice

Food Buttermilk Praline-Pumpkin Bundt Cake By REBECCA GORDON This cake is much like a good marriage — tender and spicy. A carefree technique of spooning the buttermilk praline over the curves adds to the fatal attraction. Plus, one-pan cakes are a favorite of mine. They are more effortless than rotating batches of cookies in and out of the oven. Buttermilk Praline-Pumpkin Bundt Cake Makes 15 servings 1 cup butter, softened 1 (16-oz.) box dark brown sugar 3 eggs 1/2 tsp. lemon zest 1 Tbsp. lemon juice 2 tsp. vanilla extract 1 (15-oz) can pumpkin 3 cups all purpose flour 2 tsp. pumpkin pie spice 1 1/2 tsp. baking soda 1/2 tsp. kosher salt 1 cup whole buttermilk Praline Glaze (recipe below) 1 cup chopped toasted pecans Grease and flour a 10-inch bundt pan. Beat the butter and brown sugar on medium-high speed with an electric stand mixer until light and airy, about 5 minutes. Add the eggs and the next three ingredients. Mix just until the yellow disappears on low speed. Add the pumpkin and blend well. Whisk together the flour and the next three ingredients in a small bowl. Add this mixture to the batter alternately with the buttermilk and mix on low speed until just incorporated. Spoon batter into the prepared pan and tap on the countertop several times.

Bake at 325 degrees for 1 hour and 15 minutes or until a wooden pick tests clean when inserted into the cake. Remove the cake from the oven and let stand for 10 minutes. Invert the cake onto a wire rack and cool at least 1 hour before transferring to a serving plate and drizzling with the glaze. Drizzle the glaze over the cake with a soup spoon in a back-and-forth motion. Start on the top of the cake and allow it to slowly spill down the cake sides. Work your way around the cake until all of the glaze has been used. Top glazed cake with pecans. Praline Glaze 1 cup dark brown sugar 1/3 cup whole buttermilk 1/4 cup butter 1 cup powdered sugar, sifted 1 tsp. vanilla extract

Bring the first three ingredients to a boil in a 2-quart saucepan over medium heat. Cook 30 seconds and remove from heat. Whisk constantly and turn down the heat a touch. Whisk in the powdered sugar and vanilla. Let stand 8 minutes, whisking occasionally, until thickened and smooth. Testing Notes The pan. So much depends upon greasing and flouring the bundt pan. Success will be measured as to whether the cake will release from the pan when toppled over onto a cooling rack. Be sure to grease the crevasses well with shortening. Spin the pan around in a circular motion so that the flour clings to it. Tap the excess flour out of the pan. If the pan is showing, this is a sure sign of problems down the road, so patch in a tad more shortening and flour. Once the batter is in the pan, tap on the counter several times to settle the leavening for

an even rise. The glaze. It might take a little persistence to achieve a lump-free glaze. If you whisk away during the stand time, you should be in good shape. If you’re still not there once the 8 minutes has passed, use a hand-held mixer to help you out. Now because of all of this stirring taking place, you may experience a slightly grainy texture in the final glaze. This isn’t a deal breaker for me, but all this means is that some of the sugar has started to crystallize ever so slightly during the cooling phase. The pecans. For picture-perfect chopped pecans, coarsely chop pecan halves. To remove all the little baby bits and pieces, run your knife over the pecans and drag them to the side, leaving the small pieces behind. Sprinkle the nuts on the cake and lightly press the larger pecan pieces over the warm praline to adhere. The taste. Think pumpkin pie merged with southern pecan pralines. Expect a medium spice level, so feel free to start with 1 tsp. of pumpkin pie spice if you prefer a more subtle flavor. You will notice a slight twang from the buttermilk in the praline glaze that counterbalances the spice in the velvety moist crumb cake beautifully. Rebecca Gordon recently stepped away from the Test Kitchen Director post at Southern Living magazine and has launched her own brand and digital lifestyle title, Buttermilk Lipstick. The name comes from a favorite ingredient for baking and cooking merged with an element of beauty. On ButtermilkLipstick.com she merges home-cooked recipes and style finds that tie back to her food background and her love of Southern college football. A Cahaba Heights native, she is now married to Pizitz Middle School teacher and coach Marrow Gordon.

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VestaviaVoice.com

Restaurant Showcase

Read past Restaurant Showcases at VestaviaVoice.com

Tyson Dr

Klingler’s Cafe

Kentucky Ave

621 Montgomery Highway South 823-4560 Monday-Saturday 7 a.m.-4 p.m. Sunday 8 a.m.-3 p.m. klinglers.com

By INTISAR SERAAJ- SABREE In November 1954, Irmgard “M” Klingler packed up her things from Worms, Germany, and traveled across the Atlantic Ocean in hopes of a new start. She had met her American husband, Richard Middleton, while he was stationed in Germany in the U.S. Army and she was working for an Army chaplain. As a newlywed with little money, a baby on her hip and no knowledge of English, Klingler clung to a language everyone understood: food. In her Birmingham kitchen, she baked Amaretto Almond Cheesecakes one by one with a little hand-held mixer. The news quickly spread about Klingler’s delicious homemade cheesecakes. Soon she was baking daily for about 200 people. With dessert in popular demand, she and her husband founded Klingler’s European Bakery and Cafe in 1982. Since then, Middleton has fondly been called Mr. Klingler. In the 1980s, Klinger’s was based in Alabaster and focused on baked goods served in hotels and other restaurants. In 1991, the business moved to a Montgomery Highway storefront in Vestavia Hills and opened a cafe arm.

(left) Irmgard Klinger started the bakery and cafe with her husband, Richard Middleton, in 1982. (right) Klingler’s was originally known for its cheesecakes like this Chocolate Mousse selection. (top) Klingler’s Crumble Coffee Cake features pecans and cinnamon in a buttery cake and is topped with powdered sugar.

A little bit of Germany can be found mounted on the walls of the restaurant today. Handmade German cuckoo clocks welcome diners with their ticking, and novelty gifts like beer steins line the shelves near the register. Since opening, Klingler’s has expanded its business to include more European items like imported deli products and authentic German cuisine. Just as Mrs. Klinger’s German heritage has blended with her

American husband’s, the restaurant’s food is described as European with an American twist. Customers’ menu favorites include Quiche, Pecan Chicken Salad, Smoked Bratwurst, Belgian Waffles and Cheese Blintzes. These foods have kept customers like Robert Miller coming back for more than 20 years. “The food is always good, fresh and well seasoned,” Miller said. “You can’t get a better breakfast in town

than here.” Miller said the best part about Klingler’s is that the food is consistent in quality. Still, the menu is constantly changing. Klingler attributes the selection to tweaked traditional family recipes and her daughter Michelle Witherington’s creative skills. Each of Witherington’s experimental recipes is a “winner every time,” Klingler said. Witherington, a co-owner and

manager, has plans to add specialty coffee drinks to the menu. She is also creating a new catering menu and a program for people to order specialty wedding cakes in flavors like S’mores and Nutella. Even with expanding services and products, one thing that customers can count on is Klingler’s presence behind the register. “A lot of people ask me when I’m going to retire,” Klingler said. “I will not retire.”

10 • November 2013

Vestavia Voice

Business Spotlight

Read past Business Spotlights at VestaviaVoice.com

McDonald Canine Academy

978-8799 Tuesday-Saturday, 9 a.m.-5 p.m. mcdonaldk-9.com

By INTISAR SERAAJ-SABREE Dogs have always been a major part of Aaron McDonald’s life, and he’s always found them to be excellent teachers. As a canine behavior specialist and pet owner, the Vestatvia resident has learned relationship skills, persistence, consistency, focus and how to be transparent and honest in communication. In return, Aaron has spent 14 years seeking to improve dog-human relationships through the company he co-owns with his brother Kevin McDonald. At the McDonald Canine Academy, both dogs and humans are trained, rehabilitated and undergo behavior modification. Whether the McDonalds are training a dog for therapy, service, protection or family life, both the dog and owner are positively affected. Aaron remembers counseling a client through the therapy program after her father was murdered. She suffered from professional and personal relationship problems. After training with a pit bull named Flower, she learned how to assert herself at work and to avoid allowing others to take advantage of her. The program simultaneously provides cognitive therapy for the dog and psychosocial therapy for

Dog training tips ff Do not wait until problems get out of hand to seek assistance. ff Be consistent in guidance; you are the solution to the problem. ff Have boundaries and don’t let your dog run your household or life. ff Teach right from wrong and how to make good decisions. ff Do not give in to every whim; learn the difference between wants and needs. ff Regulate food and water.

Many people might not recognize when their dog has a behavior problem. Take preventative measures early on if you notice some of these common symptoms: excitability, nipping, pulling, jumping, aggression, destructiveness, canine stress, housebreaking and anxiety. Canine behaviorists Kevin and Aaron McDonald co-own McDonald Canine Academy.

the human while improving the person’s social skills, self-worth and overall attitude. The similarities between a dog and a human child, Aaron said, influence the way he approaches training. Both are in need of boundaries, guidance and structure. Without these, dogs can grow up to have emotional disorders similar to humans.

“Poor behavior is created; they’re not born this way,” Aaron said. When Kevin and Aaron are called to adjust a dog’s behavior, the owner must also change the behaviors that trigger their pet’s actions. Kevin knows this from experience, having gone through training as a client before becoming a canine counselor. “We don’t fix dogs; we train

SPECIAL PROMOTION

people,” Kevin said with a laugh. Essentially, the McDonalds teach owners the concept of human parenting skills, especially consistency. Aaron said changes such as a divorce or marriage, constant moving or a pregnancy might trigger behavioral problems in their dog. When upsetting changes or inconsistencies occur,

the relationship can still be salvaged with training and counseling. Each weekly session takes approximately one hour, and Aaron said about 98 percent of the McDonalds’ clients are successful in their program. “I enjoy empowering people and saving their relationships with their dogs,” he said.

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VestaviaVoice.com

Community Holiday Market at Saint Mark United Methodist Church More than six years ago the United Methodist Women at Saint Mark were looking for a way to raise money to support their many missions and ministries locally and around the world. But, they also wanted to do something that would get all the church women involved and have some fun along the way. Many remembered their moms hosting bazaars at their churches, so the Saint Mark women decided to follow the heritage. The goal was to sell homemade arts and crafts and baked goods. They knew this would be a huge undertaking because it would require a lot of time and effort to produce the sale items. They started to work early in 2007. As more women heard about the planned event, more got involved. Additional donations were received from other members to sell in the Attic Treasures booth. Even the men got involved with woodworking projects and helping to set up tables for the sale. Even more members of Saint Mark helped by donating the tables, booth partitions, and decorations. On Nov. 17, 2007, the doors were opened for the Country Store, as it was called then. The Saint Mark gym had been decorated and sale items were everywhere. A corner was set aside with tables and chairs so customers could take a break from shopping and enjoy a cup of coffee, homemade muffins, or even some homemade soup. The crowds came. A huge success.

The following year, the name was changed to Holiday Market to emphasize the many holiday gifts and decorations available. Each year, the event has gotten bigger and better. Hundreds of people are involved - and they enjoy it. Saint Mark youth are there, too, to assist the shoppers by packaging their purchases and carrying them to the cars. It’s a fundraiser where everyone in the church can participate. Along with the success of the Holiday Market, benefits for the missions and ministries has also grown. Providing a scholarship to a teen living below the poverty level in Birmingham, feeding and clothing the Birmingham homeless, buying clothing and school supplies for orphans in Russia, helping to build a home across the border in Mexico and sending the youth on mission and choir tour trips only starts the very long list of benefits of the Holiday Market. The Seventh Annual Holiday Market is scheduled for Saturday, Nov. 16, with the doors opening at 9 a.m. Arrive early for the best selections. Many items are sold out quickly, and the tables are usually bare by the 2 p.m. closing time. Saint Mark United Methodist is located at 2901 Columbiana Road. Directions are available on the church’s website at saintmarkumc.org.

Mahesh Changlani, MD • Alan S. Gertler, MD • Jody Gilchrist, Nurse Practitioner

Heart KNOWLEDGE that can change your world. Convenience that can change your life.

Troop members earn Silver Award

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The UAB Heart & Vascular Clinic at The Kirklin Clinic at Acton Road is a full-service heart clinic, providing you with primary cardiology expertise conveniently located just off I-459. • Easy access to UAB cardiologists • Appointments within a week • No physician referral required

Are you at risk for heart disease? McKinley Owens and Giana Driskel. Photo courtesy of Robyn Tucker.

Giana Driskel and McKinley Owens, students at Pizitz Middle School and members of Girl Scout Troop 30136, earned the Girl Scout Silver Award for the project helping homeless cats and dogs at Grace Animal Foundation. Employees at the shelter taught the girls how to care for the animals, and the girls held a supply drive to benefit the

organization. The project taught the girls team-building and public speaking skills. The Girl Scout Silver Award is the highest award a Girl Scout Cadette (grades 6-8) can earn. This award symbolizes a Girl Scout Cadette’s accomplishments in Girl Scouting and community activities as she matures and works to better her life and the lives of others.

Introducing Heart-To-Heart Check Ups. This comprehensive risk assessment can uncover heart disease even before you have symptoms. In most cases, you only pay your co-pay.

PALs to host fall workshop fundraiser PALS, People Affecting Library Success, will host a fall workshop fundraiser on Wednesday, Nov. 13, from 10:30 a.m.-noon, in the library’s children’s department. The theme is “Holiday Entertaining,” and will include a program from food stylist and recipe developer Virginia Hornbuckle. Hornbuckle brings her years of experience

with magazines like Taste of the South, Cooking with Paula Deen, Tea Time and Woman’s Day to show you how to make delicious easy recipes and budget friendly table scapes for the holidays. Tickets are $20 in advance, $25 at the door. For more, visit librarypals.org.

Call 800-822-8816 to schedule an appointment. Learn more at uabmedicine.org/heartacton

12 • November 2013

Vestavia Voice

Get to Know Darla Hall A mom making a difference Tell us about how your team-themed activity books came into being? In 2011-2012, I owned a marketing company called Hall Marketing. I handled marketing consulting for a variety of clients. One client was Burdette Dental Lab. One day in September 2011, I contacted my client to set up a meeting. Chris Waldrop answered the phone and said, “Darla, I won’t be able to meet. My son was just struck by a car, and I’m going to the hospital.” I immediately checked back with his staff and found out that his mom witnessed the accident outside of his school, and that both of his legs were broken, but he was going to be OK. It was then that my motherly instincts kicked in, and I went out shopping for a gift for him. He was a big Alabama fan, so the gift needed to be perfect to suit an 8-yearold little boy who was going to be confined for a long time. I couldn’t find exactly what I was looking for, so I settled for something and went home that night and created the very first Roll Tide Activity Book. My thoughts immediately went to the other children in hospitals who couldn’t get out and play. I wanted to make the book into an interactive app because I knew that

this would be a great tool for kids to learn about the teams and keep their mind off of harsh treatments. I went on to create the War Eagle Activity Book and went through the licensing process with the CLC (Collegiate Licensing Company) and the universities and made this gift into a reality. Miles Waldrop received his “real gift” in July 2012. From there, I began a business of the mind and the heart. I donated hundreds of books to children in local hospitals. The book, Angels Yell Roll Tide, was a deeply personal project. Tell us about it. It’s a true story that was inspired by two boys who I built strong relationships with over the past two years. Hunter Alexander and Ryan Kitchens were both recipients of my very first activity books. From there, I grew close to them, made frequent visits to the hospital and their homes, and talked to their moms on as many occasions as I could. After I saw the struggles and celebrations that they went through, I realized what a powerful impact the Alabama football team had on their lives. As Ryan was in his final days, I was able to ask his permission

Darla Hall with Hunter Alexander, one of the special young men she befriended through her activity book efforts.

‘It’s an expensive process and I had to decide whether to cash in my 401(k) and go for it or not. At the time, it was a tough decision to make because our family needed that money. Now that I look back, it was a good decision.’ – Darla Hall, on taking the leap to make her idea of football-themed apps and books a reality

to write a story about him. I think back often to that day when he told me “yes” with a big smile. The story takes you through their inspiring journey. Thomas Sulli-

van, another little boy who was an Auburn fan, passed away when I was finished writing the story. I wanted to include him in the book, so I added a page about him and talked about how it doesn’t matter what team you cheer for, everyone is cheering for a cure for childhood cancer. How did your family respond to this project taking on a life of its own? My family has been very supportive of this business and “heart” venture. I involve my kids in some of the relationships that I have built with the children that I help, and I hope it has impacted their lives and will make them want to give back one day. My 15-year-old son was able to go with me to visit one of the boys as he was getting close to earn-

ing his wings. This was a moment that I’ll never forget, and I hope he doesn’t either. A singer, Olivia Noelle, came to visit Ryan, an 8-year-old little boy who had brain cancer, and sang Ryan’s favorite song to him. It was a special moment for his family, and I’m so thankful that we got to share it with them. I try to teach my kids how important it is to let God lead the way and to let his will be done. I want to lead them by example. My youngest son once asked me, “Mom, why do you help these kids?” My response to him was, “If you were sick, I would want someone who cared to be by our side every step of the way. I wouldn’t want people to turn their back on us. There are so many mean things in the world. If people would do one act of kindness a day,

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(above) Darla Hall with Ryan Kitchens, one of the individuals who inspired her book, Angels Yell Roll Tide. (left) Hall regularly visits Children’s of Alabama where she lets patients choose their favorite team activity book.

the world would be a better place. And, it’s the right thing to do.” You are voluntarily putting yourself in the path of a family’s most gut-wrenching season of life. What is your motivation? Why get involved, especially with something as devastating as childhood cancer? The very first time I met Eli and Hunter, two boys who were recipients of my first activity books, I knew that this was what I was supposed to do with my life. They touched me in a way that is hard to explain. These kids who have life-threatening illnesses have a special personality, a way about them, a positive attitude, a faith

and strength that no one else has, a gift of influence, a wholesome gratitude that is missing in this world where most kids get everything they want or need. I do get sad, and I do invest myself in these kids. I don’t worry about the sadness. Without sadness, we don’t learn about true happiness. We don’t build meaningful relationships. We may miss out on what we’re supposed to do. Without risk, we don’t reap rewards. Without effort, I wouldn’t have met these kids who have changed my life. The golden rule applies with these children and their families. If my child were sick, I would want love and support. I wouldn’t want people to be afraid to get close to

them just because they are afraid of sadness. It’s so easy to ignore pain and hurt, but I try to use the pain and hurt to help more people, to inspire, to take more action to make this world a better place to live — one book, one story, one app, one kid, one smile at a time. Describe a funny or poignant moment you’ve shared with a recipient of one of your books. The funniest moment was when I went to Ryan’s mom’s wedding. He is a huge Alabama fan, and she is an LSU fan. He was sitting in a chair looking really sad and was not going to walk his mom down the aisle. I

‘It’s so easy to ignore pain and hurt, but I try to use the pain and hurt to help more people, to inspire, to take more action to make this world a better place to live … one book, one story, one app, one kid, one smile at a time.’ – Darla Hall

went up to him and gave him a hug and said, “What’s wrong, Ryan?” He pouted and said, “These purple flowers,” as he pointed down to his boutonnière. He didn’t like the

LSU purple flowers in it. I just sat there and smiled as I pulled every purple flower out of it. Then, he lit up and ran over and happily walked his mom down the aisle. I still have those flowers in my jewelry box.

Darla lives in the Vesclub area of Vestavia Hills with her husband Ryan, who works at Vulcan Materials, and their four children: Collin Shields is a junior at Samford, Gavin is a sophomore at the high school, where he attends with his sister, Hannah, a freshman. Rian is an eighth-grader at Pizitz.

14 • November 2013

Vestavia Voice

City OKs offer for retail use of library building By KATIE TURPEN and SYDNEY CROMWELL At its regular meeting in October, the Vestavia Hills City Council accepted an offer from Commercial Realty Partners, LLC, for potential retail use of the former Vestavia Hills Public Library building, which is located at 1112 Montgomery Highway. “Within the first 90 days, the buyer has to be identified,” City Manager Jeff Downes said. “We have the right to approve the retailer, and 180 days is the maximum the building can be held off the market.” During the 90-day due diligence period, the potential retailer will evaluate the property. The building is approximately 22,000 square feet and located on an estimated 1.66 acres of property owned by the City. Last year, the building was appraised at $825,000 while the current retail offer is $750,000. “Retail use of this building would produce sales tax dollars for the community,” Downes said. In 2009, following the City’s termination of a lease agreement for library services, the property was appraised at $1.5 million. In 2011 the City entered into a contract to sell the building for $800,000 to M&P Properties, LLC, provided that the company could provide a retail tenant. When M&P was not successful, the contract was terminated. In September 2012, HES Investments, LLC, offered to purchase the property for $800,000 but was also unable to provide a suitable tenant. Based on these three offers, Vestavia Hills City Attorney Patrick Boone approximated the building’s current market value is $767,000. In other negotiations, the City is looking to relocate the current City Hall at 513 Montgomery Highway to the former Food World location directly off of U.S. 31. However, that deal has not been finalized. Chick-fil-A has expressed strong

The former Vestavia Hills Library Public Library building on Montgomery Highway could soon house retail business following an agreement between the City and Commercial Realty Partners, LLC. Photo by Jeff Thompson.

interest in purchasing the current property, but Councilman George Pierce said the company’s period of due diligence has not yet started. “We are in constant contact with Chickfil-A,” Pierce said. “We are still looking at the Food World location and are waiting until we sign that paperwork before we move forward with selling the property.” Below are additional items addressed by the Council since the previous publication of

Vestavia Voice.

ff Authorized entering into an agreement with

Goodwyn, Mills, Cawood, Inc. for planning and design services for undeveloped portions of Patchwork Farms at a cost not to exceed $28,000.

ff Accepted a check from the Parks and

Recreation Department for $220,000, the first from its $3 million fundraising campaign to expand park facilities (See next page).

ff Established a training program for collision

avoidance through the Vestavia Hills Police Department.

ff Explored building a formal relationship with Retail Strategies, a Birminghambased company that could recruit potential retailers and developers to open businesses in the Vestavia Hills area.

ff Declared Sept. 20 as Coach Buddy Anderson Day to celebrate the Vestavia Hills High School football coach’s 300th win.

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Parks group makes major donation to City By LEIGH BELCHER The Vestavia Hills Parks and Recreation Foundation (VHPRF) is a nonprofit whose mission is to strengthen our local community through investments in parks and recreational activities for people of all ages. We are committed to investing time and resources into community parks, green spaces and the environment as well as programs to promote a healthy, thriving community, supporting mind, body and spirit. Currently, the VHPRF is raising funds for a capital campaign called “Partners in Healthy Living.” This campaign is an initiative of the VHPRF led by a partnership between the

Foundation, the Parks and Recreation Board, the City and the citizens of Vestavia Hills. Our goals with this campaign are to expand McCallum Park with additional green space and walking trails and to open a 40-acre community park on Sicard Hollow Road adjacent to the already-existing new athletic complex, which was also funded through this campaign. In September, as a result of campaign efforts, the VHPRF made its first contribution to the City of Vestavia Hills in the amount of $220,000. This money will go directly to funding these park expansions and additions. For more information or to donate to the VHPRF, visit hprf.org or contact Leigh Belcher, VHPRF executive director, at 527-8788.

VHPRF Executive Director Leigh Belcher; Council members Jim Sharp, John Henley, George Pierce, Steve Ammons; VH Director of Public Services Brian Davis; VHPRF Board President Jordy Henson; Mayor Alberto Zaragoza. Photo courtesy of Leigh Belcher.

Ascension to host annual Christmas wreath fundraiser

Consider the Ascension Episcopal annual Christmas wreath fundraiser for any holiday greenery in your décor this year. Photo courtesy of Ann Carr.

By RACHEL LOWTHER Ascension Episcopal Kindergarten is holding its Third Annual Christmas Wreath Fundraiser. Fresh evergreen wreaths and cut-to-order garland are available. Beautiful red poinsettias are a new addition this year. Three handmade bow options will be offered to compliment any holiday decor. Orders must be

turned in by Nov. 13. Pick up will be at the Church of the Ascension on Tuesday, Dec. 3 and Wednesday, Dec. 4 from 9 a.m.-2 p.m. Fundraiser proceeds will be used for AEK playground upgrades. Contact the Kindergarten at 979-8711 for order information or request an order form via email by contacting the director at akamrsfaye@gmail.com.

16th Street Baptist Church survivor and author addresses local congregation The Episcopal Women’s Council (EWC) of St. Stevens remembered the bombing of the 16th Street Baptist Church with speaker and author Carolyn McKinstry during a luncheon on Sept. 23. McKinstry spoke at St. Stephens Episcopal Church about her experience during the bombing of the church and living in Birmingham 50 years ago. Leslie Passafiume, president of EWC, introduced McKinstry to the large gathering of both men and women. McKinstry is a native of Birmingham. She was present on Sept. 15, 1963 at the Sixteenth Street Baptist Church, when the church was bombed. McKinstry’s four young friends were killed. McKinstry has recently authored a book (memoir)

Carolyn McKinstry recently addressed the Episcopal Women’s Council of St. Stevens. Photo courtesy of Lynda Turner.

entitled While the World Watched. The book details her life growing up in Birmingham, as well as lessons she learned from her experiences and involvement in the Birmingham Civil Rights Movement of the sixties. The book has been featured on C-SPAN 2 and serves as a tool for McKinstry’s ongoing national and international travel and work in the Ministry of Reconciliation and Forgiveness.

16 • November 2013

Vestavia Voice

Grateful for culture of acceptance By REBECCA WALDEN Each fall at Pizitz Middle School, the Special Olympics give special needs children the opportunity to compete in various sports with the support of their peers. For Laura Davis, mom to 11-yearold Grace, it’s her favorite day of the year. “Every child in the school cheers for our kids while they parade down the halls,” she said. “It is so loud. It is awesome.” A number of events marking Down Syndrome Awareness Month took place in October, all with strong support from a substantial network of local families intimately familiar with the condition. For Tracy Thornton, mom to 15-month-old Chambers, that support means everything. “It is a true testament to the community we are in,” said Thornton, a former fifth grade teacher at Vestavia Hills Elementary Central. “[Chambers] has so many kids around here who are rooting for her and protecting her.” The culture of acceptance didn’t happen by accident. Several local programs have been key to transforming lives of local families with special needs children. East Elementary’s Bell Runners for the Bell Center helps children understand and learn how to interact with their special needs classmates. In addition to monthly donations, its most recent efforts resulted in a bake sale that grossed nearly $1,000. At Vestavia Hills United Methodist, Kelly Rainer helped launch a local

“Nate is so much like my other children were that I don’t treat him any differently. There will be things to overcome, but I have no hesitation that Nate will have a beautiful life. There is something refreshing in anticipating his life without a lot of preconceived expectations. Whatever he accomplishes will be great!” – Katherine Gorham, mom to Nate

Nate Gorham

branch of Down Syndrome of Alabama — The Learning Program, which educates parents on teaching their children with Down syndrome. The Vestavia Pilot has already enrolled five families, all of whom either have or will soon have special needs children in Vestavia City Schools. These moments are a relief for the families whose journeys are punctuated by equal parts joy and uncertainty.

“We were pre-diagnosed with Chambers at 16 weeks through blood tests and later confirmation through an amnio,” said Thornton. “We found out on Feb. 9, 2012 — Mercedes Marathon Weekend, a huge fundraiser for the Bell Center, which I just so happened to be the chairperson of that year. So, to say that it was an emotional weekend and a perfect weekend is just putting it mildly.” Vestavia residents Chris and Laura Davis had been married three years

and were living in Columbus, Ohio for Chris’ ENT residency when they received the news their baby girl had Down syndrome. “I was 27, and my first thought was, ‘I am not 35.’ It was a very emotional day. We had to face the unknown, and that was the scariest part — not knowing if she would talk, read, have friends, marry and so forth.” Early on, while Davis was still processing her emotions, she received a fateful phone call from a prominent local figure. “Coach Gene Stallings (whose son, John Mark, has Down syndrome) called me on my first Mother’s Day after Grace was born. He said, ‘What is the one thing you want for Grace? It is to go to heaven, right?’ I said, ‘Yes.’ He said, ‘Well, she already has a one-way ticket there.’ Davis sees Grace as the light of her family; however, she is clear not to confuse that love with lax rules or coddling. She draws a firm line between “special needs” and “special treatment.” “Our kids are smart, and they

figure out real quickly how to manipulate the situation,” Davis said. “Grace is treated exactly the same as her brothers. She gets in trouble just like they do. It has helped her in so many ways.” Thornton agrees. From discipline to safety, ambition to interpersonal relationships and everything in between, the concerns of a parent of a child with special needs aren’t that different from parenting a typical child. “When I was still pregnant with Chambers, I was going through all the emotions any mama feels when they find out that their ‘perfect’ baby is somewhat not,” Thornton said. “I realized that with any child you have worries — there are no guarantees.” Davis sets realistic goals for Grace and thinks she would do her daughter a disservice by settling for less. “We have a dream that she will one day go to college, live with a roommate somewhere, and maybe even get married,” Davis said. “She has succeeded every scary thought I had so far.”

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VestaviaVoice.com

Why we are thankful Vestavia Hills Elementary Central students share their thoughts

SARA KATE WYERS “My favorite Thanksgiving traditions are visiting family, playing with my cousins in their treehouse and hearing my dad say that Thanksgiving prayer. I am thankful for my family, my cat and God.”

EMILY WIGLEY “My favorite Thanksgiving tradition is spending time with family at my grandparents’ house. Before we eat dinner, everyone tells what they are most thankful for. I am thankful for my family and that we are all healthy, and I’m especially thankful for God.”

MACKI WILKERSON

MARLIK BERRY

PATRICK MALUFF

JACEY HANDRA

“My favorite Thanksgiving tradition is going to my granddad’s house to eat a big turkey dinner and play with my cousins. I am thankful for my family and the Pilgrims on the Mayflower.”

“My favorite Thanksgiving tradition is going to my grandmother’s house, playing basketball with my family, riding bikes and eating a big dinner. I am thankful for my parents.”

“My favorite Thanksgiving tradition is going to Louisiana to see my cousins and eating a lot of food! I am thankful for my family.”

“My favorite Thanksgiving tradition is having a potluck with friends from out of town and family at my house. I am most thankful for my parents, my brother and God.”

18 • November 2013

Vestavia Voice

Ready, set, Run For the Hills! By REBECCA WALDEN Each year the Run For the Hills event offers a can’t-miss gathering that benefits the community. Vestavia Hills Sunrise Rotary hosts the fundraiser to provide direct financial support to Vestavia City Schools. “Last year, Run For the Hills proceeds were awarded to the organization We the People at the high school,” said Race Director Steve Hicks, also a medic with Vestavia Hills Fire Station 5 in Cahaba Heights. “Our $2,000 gift, raised entirely from Run For the Hills proceeds, allowed these students to travel to Washington, D.C., for a competition.” This year, Hicks worked hard to pinpoint a race date, only after vetting all manner of local and collegiate athletic calendars, as well as weekends already claimed by what he calls the Magic City’s 5K-saturated market. And on Dec. 14, it will also benefit high school students, although a slightly broader group than in 2012. After being approached by a member of the Vestavia Hills High School Band, Hicks and fellow race committee members decided to help them out. “Given the size of the band and the support of the band parents, it would have been crazy not to help them. With that many people helping, we think we can double the support of those who usually come out,” he said, adding that prior registration numbers have hovered just south of 200. “This year I want to see us break our top attendance record. To have 300 or more registrants come out would be phenomenal.” While scheduling may be tricky for some given the holiday season race date, Hicks sees it as a motivator. “The race date is smack dab in the middle of December, and that is by design,” he said Hicks. “We all tend to eat more that time of year, so

(left) Rep. Paul DeMarco and Race Director Steve Hicks at the 2012 Run For the Hills 5K. (above) Thanks in part to the Sunrise Rotary’s Run For the Hills proceeds, members of the 2012-13 We the People Team went on to win fourth place in the 26th Annual National Finals in Washington, D.C.

why not plan a 5K or 10K around that same time to keep things in balance?” Speaking of balance, Hicks has done his share to make the race more appealing for all who want to participate, even if they aren’t dedicated athletes who are pounding the pavement daily. One of the first changes he made was to move the race site from its former location in Wald Park to the still challenging yet easier terrain offered by

Run For the Hills 5K, 10K and Fun Run Saturday, Dec. 14 vestaviasunriserotary.com/run-for-the-hills

Liberty Park. “Over the years, race turnout had deteriorated a bit,” he said. “Anecdotal feedback pointed to the race site as an issue. It was so hilly and so hard that it was turning people away. And a secondary reason had to do with scheduling. There’s no competing with football season around here. But now, we’ve removed both of those barriers.” Apart from the 10K, 5K and 1-Mile

Family Fun Run, the day’s festivities also will include refreshments, a bounce house for kids, and giveaways for first-place finishers in both the male and female divisions. Last year, first-place finishers each received $100 gift cards to Fleming’s Steakhouse. To register, visit active.com or vestaviasunriserotary.com/run-for-the-hills. To inquire about sponsorship, contact Hicks at 337-1000 or shicks106@yahoo.com.

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VestaviaVoice.com

Alabama Senior Citizens Hall of Fame inducts 2013 honorees

Senior Citizens Hall of Fame inductee Linda DeMarco with Neal Morrison, senior services commissioner for the State of Alabama.

Senior Citizens Hall of Fame inductee Lawrence Shelton Hawsey and Commissioner Morrison.

Senior Citizens Hall of Fame inductee Rep. Paul DeMarco and Commissioner Morrison. Photos courtesy of Linda DeMarco.

The Alabama Senior Citizens Hall of Fame held its 2013 induction ceremonies recently at the First Baptist Church in Montgomery. Established by an Act of the Legislature in 1983, the Alabama Senior Citizens Hall of Fame seeks to recognize the state’s citizens “who have made outstanding accomplishments and contributions to the lives of older Americans.” Three residents and a representative from Vestavia were honored. Linda DeMarco was inducted into the Hall of Fame for her efforts to improve the health and well-being of senior citizens throughout the Birmingham metro and surrounding areas. Her career at the Jefferson County Health Department covered more than three decades as nutritional professional, assistant director of the bureau, health center administrator and director of General Services. She has served in leadership capacities in many civic and professional organizations. She is currently president of the Jefferson County Department of Health retiree’s chapter of the Alabama Retired State Employees Association (ARSEA) and also serves on the state board of directors. She was elected to the Alabama Silver Haired Legislature in 2010 and currently serves as Chairman of the Jefferson County ASHL delegation. Her military career (1975 to 2003) earned her the rank of Lieutenant Colonel in the U.S. Army National Guard. Her assigned units were 109th Evacuation Hospital and COSCOM in Birmingham and STARC in Montgomery. She was deployed in 1990-91 to Saudi Arabia in Operation Desert Shield/Desert Storm. Lawrence Shelton Hawsey was inducted into the Hall of Fame for his service in every major Alabama office of the National Association of Retired Federal Employees (NARFE), including serving as its president in 2005 and his years of leadership in the retired extension service chapter, and his contribution to every program for older members of the Auburn Methodist Church. His civic services include: past president of the Wetumpka Lions Club, past vice president of the Opelika Lions Club, past chairman of Wetumpka Family Life Conference and past division chairman of the Montgomery/ Wetumpka United Appeal. Dr. Donald E. Wilson (not pictured) received the Religion Award. Dr. Wilson has taught Sunday school class at Dawson Memorial Baptist Church in Homewood for more than 20 years. This class has more than 125 members, ages 50-85. Dr. Wilson shares his life experiences from the military and world travels escorting students all over Europe and using these comparisons to Biblical history in his Sunday school teachings. After retiring from

the Air Force, Dr. Wilson served 25 yeas as professor of history in the Samford University History Department. He was department chair for 10 years and was appointed history professor emeritus. He published two books following retirement on the Air War in Europe, including his most recent, Alabama Bomber Boys. He has been very active in supporting the Birmingham Honor Flight and trips to the World War II Memorial in Washington, D.C., with contributions of all book royalties to that cause. He was awarded the national Freedom Foundation Award in 2009. Since the publication of his book, he has been very active as a speaker at more than 40 different locations including local civic clubs, patriotic organizations and others. Rep. Paul DeMarco (R - Homewood) received one of the Statesman Awards for sponsoring and passing the “Protecting Alabama’s Elders Act,” which strengthens the law that combats cases of neglect, mistreatment and financial abuse of the elderly. DeMarco serves as chairman of the House Judiciary Committee, Oversight Committee for the Alabama Homeland Security Agency and co-chair of the Jefferson County Delegation. Since his election, he has sponsored bills in the areas of ethics, constitutional reform and public safety. He sponsored one of the seven ethic bills passed during the historic Special Session on Ethics Reform. Rep. DeMarco sponsored the House version of the 2013 Elder Justice legislation, a major act of the Alabama Legislature.

thimbles

WE’VE MOVED!

20 • November 2013

Vestavia Voice

A new kind of Market Rebranded Junior League event to feature Vestavia-based MADE in the deep south Shoppers can kick off the holiday shopping season the weekend before Thanksgiving with a new take on a long-standing tradition. The Junior League of Birmingham (JLB) has christened a new name and logo for its annual holiday market — Market Noel. “The rebrand has attracted a lot of new vendors,” said Mary Evans, Market Noel chair. “Our hope is to keep old favorites while bringing in fresh, new merchandise from around the country.” Among the more than 100 local and national merchants will be vintage jewelry designs by MADE in the deep south, owned and designed by Vestavia Hills resident Michela Swafford. Every MADE piece is unique and is adorned with a “story card” that provides its biography. Since designing her first piece three years ago, Swafford now sells her stylish pieces in more than 70 stores around the country. Swafford said she loves being able to sell directly to her fans and customers from her hometown at Market Noel. All proceeds from Market Noel will support the 34 community projects of JLB. Returning to the Cahaba Grand Conference Center for the fifth consecutive year, the festivities begin Wednesday, Nov. 20, at 7

Market Noel Cahaba Grand Conference Center Nov. 21-22, 9 a.m.-8 p.m. Nov. 23, 9 a.m.-5 p.m. $12 general admission marketnoel.net

Vintage designs by Vestavia Hills’ Michela Swafford will be featured at Market Noel.

p.m. with a merry Sneak Peek party. General admission shopping runs Nov. 21-23 from 9 a.m.-8 p.m. on Thursday and Friday and 9 a.m.-5 p.m. on Saturday.

Highlights of the week include Market Morning, featuring country music singer Sara Evans, and a book signing by Homewood’s Father Goose, Charles Ghigna, and his

wife, Debra. Ghigna has recently co-written a children’s book with his wife, titled Christmas is Coming! Both authors will be on hand to sign copies of their latest book.

On Friday, John Croyle of the Big Oak Ranch will be signing copies of his book, The TwoMinute Drill to Manhood: A Proven Game Plan for Raising Sons. On Saturday, families can enjoy free photos with Santa and Mrs. Claus. Visit marketnoel.net to purchase tickets and to review a complete listing of participating merchants and event details. Tickets are also available at the door, and all special event tickets include admission for shopping. You can also find Market Noel at facebook.com/MarketNoel, JLBirmingham on Pinterest or #jlbmarketnoel on Twitter. -Submitted by the Junior League of Birmingham

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VestaviaVoice.com

Vestavia Hills residents enjoy National Night Out Residents turned out by the hundreds to take part in the City’s recent National Night Out, held in the parking lot of Vestavia Hills United Methodist Church. National Night Out celebrated its 30th year as an event that promotes public safety’s partnership with the community it serves. The event is symbolic in nature and was a great opportunity for a night of free family fun as well an opportunity for citizens to get to know some of their public servants and the services provided by each.

Pony rides were a huge hit during National Night Out. Photos by Rebecca Walden.

Dawn Fizer with daughter Alexis, who never strayed far from the bounce houses, at National Night Out.

Brandon, Laura Leigh, Price and Parker Etheridge enjoy the live music at National Night Out.

(right) Horseback rides with Patchy were a highlight of National Night Out. (below) Guests watched safety demonstrations by Vestavia Police and Fire Department employees. Photos courtesy of Jennifer Hagler.

22 • November 2013

Vestavia Voice

Viva Vestavia Tradition gearing up for it’s 11th annual event The 11th Annual Viva Vestavia will take place on Nov. 7 at Hollywood Pools. This event gives residents the chance to sample food and wine from Vestavia’s finest restaurants. Tickets are $40 per person (85 percent tax deductible) and include a Viva Vestavia XI commemorative etched wine glass. All proceeds benefit the Chamber Foundation scholarship fund and the Chamber Foundation capital fund. The event will also feature a silent auction and each vendor will compete for best food and display. Visit vestaviahills.org.

What: “A Taste of Fabulous Vestavia Hills Restaurants and Fine Wine”

When: Nov. 7, 6:30-9 p.m. Where: Hollywood Pools, 1441 Montgomery Highway

2013 PARTICIPANTS • Bistro V • Bruster’s Real Ice Cream • Contri Bros. Gift Basket • El Poblano • Everything Iz • The Heavenly Donut Company • Hilton Garden Grill & Bar • Ichiban Japanese Steakhouse • Klingler’s European Bakery & Café • La Catrina Mexican Cantina • Moe’s Original Barbecue • Mudtown Eat & Drink • Mugshots Grill & Bar

• Newk’s Eatery • Piggly Wiggly • Publix Super Markets • The Ridge Eat & Drink • Rx Catering • Seasons 52 • Sekisui of Vestavia Hills • Siham’s Grill and Sweets • Sol Azteca • Starbucks Coffee • Taziki’s Mediterranean Café • Western Supermarket • Yellow Bicycle Catering Company • Zoe’s Kitchen

Residents celebrate the best selection of their city’s food and wine during Viva Vestavia X. This year’s event is scheduled for Nov. 7 at Hollywood Pools on Montgomery Highway. Photo courtesy of the Vestavia Hills Chamber of Commerce.

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VestaviaVoice.com

Briarwood prepares for 15th annual Christmas at the Caroline House

Women’s health center receives award citation Sav-A-Life Pregnancy Test Center in Vestavia Hills was honored recently by Care Net, a national network of more than 1,100 pregnancy centers, for offering programs and services that focus on building the strength of the family. The Guy Condon Presidential Award was recently presented to the Center in recognition of achievements in that area.

Get into the spirit of the season by visiting Christmas at the Caroline House, an outreach of Briarwood’s Women’s Ministry. Photo courtesy of Julie Elmer.

By JULIE ELMER

Polly Bennett, Care Net conference coordinator; Lisa Hogan, executive director, Sav-A-Life, Vestavia Hills; and Roland Warren, President and CEO, Care Net. Photo courtesy of Lisa Hogan.

Seniors encouraged to use transportation service Transportation for seniors is available four days a week for the cost of $1 round trip if they live within the old part of Vestavia Hills. Wednesday and Friday drivers will pick up seniors and take them anywhere within Vestavia Hills between 8:30 a.m.-3 p.m. on Wednesday, and 8:30 a.m.-noon on Friday. Tuesday and Thursday, senior residents may be transported to doctor appointments anywhere within Jefferson County; appointments should be made between 9 a.m.-2 p.m. To make a reservation to be picked up at their home, residents should call 978-0166 as soon as their appointments have been scheduled. Wednesday and

Friday reservations are usually made on the Monday of that week by calling the above number. A similar program is available on Wedsnesdays for residents of the Cahaba Heights area. Reservations are also made by calling the Civic Center at 978-0166. The senior transportation program began in the mayor’s office years ago when Sara Wuska was mayor. It has continued with the help of some very generous and kind volunteer drivers and now operates out of the Vestavia Hills Civic Center. A city car is provided for the transportation. For more, contact transportation coordinator Jane Lewis at 822-5118.

Briarwood’s 15th annual Christmas at the Caroline House event is scheduled for Nov. 19-20 at Briarwood Presbyterian Church. Christmas at the Caroline House, an outreach of the Women’s Ministry, is a two-day event that begins in the Fellowship Hall where guests will enjoy a 9:30 a.m. brunch or 6:30 p.m. supper while being treated to a performance of the Briarwood Ballet, holiday music and a Christmas message by our speaker Anita Barker Barnes, daughter of Briarwood founding pastor Frank Barker. Afterwards, there will be holiday activities to enjoy such as “How to Tie the Perfect Christmas Bow,” “Something Simple from the Kitchen,” “Creative Gift Wrap,” as well as 25 holiday centerpieces designed by Briarwood ladies with lots of ideas for your home. A Christmas tour of our beautiful Caroline House, lovingly decorated by Briarwood ladies, is the grand finale of the event.

Get into the spirit of the season by visiting Christmas at the Caroline House, an outreach of Briarwood’s Women’s Ministry. Photo courtesy of Julie Elmer.

A shuttle will be provided to take guests to tour the Caroline House, the original home on the property of Briarwood Presbyterian Church. This stately home was given to the ladies of the church as a venue for special events. Furnishings and antiques given by members of the church provide a backdrop for this annual Christmas event. The house is filled with traditional, whimsical, elegant and simple decorating ideas. Birmingham decorators, floral designers and creative moms have prepared the home. Christmas at the Caroline House has also been featured in Southern Living and Southern Lady magazines. Tickets are $10 and are available at briarwood.org/women or the Briarwood Bookstore. For information, call 776-5311 or contact flong@ briarwood.org. Briarwood is located at I-459 at Acton Road.

24 • November 2013

Vestavia Voice

School House Vestavia well represented in Distinguished Young Women competition

New SGA officers sworn in at Liberty Park

Liberty Park Middle School 2013-2014 SGA officers. Photo courtesy of Linda Rummell.

Members of the Vestavia Hills High School Student Government Association visited Liberty Park Middle School recently to participate in the middle school’s SGA induction ceremony. New LPMS student officers were sworn into their positions by the high school students, and each new officer received a copy of the book The Positive Dog by Jon Gordon.

First alternate Cailyn Levant (VHHS), 2014 Distinguished Young Woman of Jefferson County Sarah Grace McDuff (Homewood High School) and second alternate Amber Gibson (Hewitt-Trussville High School). Photo courtesy of Ginny Johnston.

This year, 21 girls participated in the Distinguished Young Women program competing in the categories of talent, self-expression, fitness, scholastics and interview. Cailyn Levant from Vestavia Hills High School, with fellow Vestavia students Olivia Mims, Rachel Snow and Jane Whitaker help to round out the top eight. Hayden Yendle, also from VHHS, received the Special

Recognition Talent Awards. In addition, Cailyn Levant was selected as both the Overall Fitness and Overall Talent winner, and Rachael Snow won the Overall SelfExpression Award. Members of the Class of 2015 interested in participating in next year’s program can visit distinguishedyw. org and click on “participate” or email Jefferson@distinguishedyw.org.

19 VHHS students named National Merit Semifinalists Officials of the National Merit Scholarship Corporation (NMSC) announced the names of approximately 16,000 Semifinalists in the 59th annual National Merit Scholarship Program. About 1.5 million juniors in more than 22,000 high schools entered the National Merit Scholarship Program by taking the Preliminary SAT/ National Merit Qualifying Test (PSAT/NMSQT), which serves as an initial screen of the program

Smart Kid.

Smart Parent.

Start the year off right!

Smart Call. Cahaba Heights 968-5151 Inverness 981-7155

Kate Strange is the Liberty Park Middle School SGA president, Harrison Wood is boys’ vice president, and Carlee Beth Yarbrough is girls’ vice president. Other officers are: Sloan Zieverink, secretary; Ellen Simmons, treasurer; Merritt Cahoon, parliamentarian; Sophia Rosene, chaplain; Jordan Stevens, historian; and Ashleigh Patterson, sergeant-at-arms.

entrants. The nationwide pool of Semifinalists, representing less than one percent of high school seniors, includes the highest scoring entrants in each state. Vestavia Hills High School is proud to announce 19 seniors who have been identified as National Merit Semifinalists. These seniors will now compete for National Merit Finalist status through an application process.

The 19 Semifinalists are: Claire Chen • Kelly Chen • Mary Catherine Cook • Kristin Deneen Siyin Han • Emma Jackson • Mihael Kithcart • Silin Li • Andrea Lin • Jimmy Liu • Wendi Lu • Austin Owen • Amber Roberson • Andrew Theiss • Jackson Thomley Andrew Tinory • Ziqi Wang • Sophie Wu • Jamie Zhang

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VestaviaVoice.com

The Constitution comes alive at LPMS Liberty Park Middle School celebrated Constitution Day in September with many events throughout campus. The Lily of the Cahaba Chapter of the Daughters of the American Revolution (DAR) sponsored many of the activities that were held. Ethan Vice, field representative for Rep. Spencer Bachus, spoke to the sixth-grade students about the Constitution and the history of Washington, D.C. Daniel Tackett, teen director of the Library in the Forest, and Jean Deal, librarian at LPMS, dressed in colonial attire and represented James Madison, father of the Constitution, and his wife, Dolly. All students were given pocket Constitutions compliments of the DAR. A special display in the library held an American flag that had flown over an army base in Afghanistan. Art students designed their own representations of the American flag, and students announced facts about the Constitution every day over the school broadcast. Also, as a part of this special day, students in Kirk Spence’s seventh-grade social studies classes role-played the Constitutional Convention and debated whether a more diverse group of individuals would have changed some of the topics and how the Constitution would have read. Some discussion topics included: Would slavery have been abolished? Would women have the right to vote? Would there have been a Civil War? At the end, students compared and contrasted the Articles of Confederation and the U.S. Constitution.

LPMS librarian Jean Deal dressed as Dolly Madison, and Library in the Forest Teen Director Daniel Tackett dressed as James Madison as part of Liberty Park Middle School’s Constitution Day celebration.

VHHS band performs at Samford

VHHS Marching Band and the Rockettes rocked the pre-game show during a Samford University game last month. Photo courtesy of Heather Brown.

Last month, as a pre-game show for the Samford University vs. Georgia Southern game, the VHHS marching band performed their piece, “As American as Apple Pie.” Their tribute was both entertaining and touching. Fans and participants alike had a great time.

Liberty Park students compete in Special Olympics

Several Liberty Park Middle School students participated in the recent 2013 Special Olympics of Alabama held at Jack Wood’s stadium in Trussville. Before competing, each athlete recited the Special Olympics pledge, “Let me win, but if I cannot win, let me be brave in the attempt.” Participating students included Phillip Trawick, Wilson Taylor, Virginia Strong and Andrew Woods. Andrew placed second in the tennis ball throw, Virginia placed third in the 50-meter dash, Wilson placed first in the 50-meter dash, and Phillip placed first in the 100-meter dash. Liberty Park Middle School Student Government representatives accompanied the athletes and offered help and encouragement.

Before the athletes left the school, a mini pep rally send off was held by band members, cheerleaders, majorettes, dance team members, students, teachers and administrators. The idea of Special Olympics began in the 1950s and early 1960s, when Eunice Kennedy Shriver saw how unjustly and unfairly people with intellectual disabilities were treated. She also saw that these children with often didn’t even have a place to play. Her vision took shape, as she held a summer day camp for young people with intellectual disabilities in her own backyard. The goal was to learn what these children could do in sports and other activities – and not dwell on what they could not do.

26 • November 2013

Vestavia Voice

Central students gear up for annual Iron Bowl Challenge

VHEW students learn ‘The West Way’

Callie Wilson, Lauren Appleby, AJ Luccasen, Parker Fulton and Tucker Meek show the signed West Way pledge for Stacy Hein’s second grade class. Photo courtesy of Alice Elmore. Students pictured are Kate Denver, John Mark James, Nathan Coe, Joshua Lyon and Will Brown. Photo courtesy of Renee Lamar.

A Thanksgiving tradition at VHEC is the annual Food for Families canned food drive. The VHEC Student Advisory Committee leads the annual event, which collects money and non-perishable food items for Urban Ministries and Vestavia Hills United Methodist Church. Donation bins are set up in the front lobby for students to place items in the bin of their favorite Iron Bowl team. Donations can be made at any time to support this worthwhile cause.

Visitors to Vestavia Hills ElementaryWest see it as soon as they walk in the door: a display explaining “The West Way.” They also see it throughout the halls and classrooms of the school as students demonstrate the motto, which sums up how West students are expected to behave. Courtesy, respect and responsibility make up “The West Way,” and every year, students learn about these good character traits during West Way Week. This year, students kicked off the school year by celebrating West Way Week Aug. 26-30. Students started the week by receiving a

souvenir that helped them remember “The West Way.” This year, they received a pencil imprinted with “The West Way is the Best Way.” Then, classes spent a day on each trait, discussing it in depth and talking about how children and teachers could demonstrate each one. Students in each class then signed a “West Way Pledge,” which is displayed throughout the school year. The week wrapped up with “Team Up at West” day, as students, faculty and staff wore their favorite team shirts to remind everyone that together, they are a team.

Schools take part in Rachel’s Challenge Students at Liberty Park Middle School, Pizitz Middle School and Vestavia Hills High recently participated in a program called Rachel’s Challenge. Financial support for this program was provided by the Vestavia Hills City Council. Rachel’s Challenge is a series of student-empowering programs and strategies that equip students and adults to combat bullying and allay feelings of isolation and despair by creating a culture of kindness and compassion. The programs are based on the writings

and life of 17-year-old Rachel Joy Scott, who was the first student killed at Columbine High School in 1999. As part of a school assignment, Rachel wrote an essay entitled “My Ethics, My Codes of Life.” She stressed in this essay that no one will know how far a little kindness can go and that you never know how your actions may just start a chain reaction of kindness. Six weeks after she wrote this essay, the Columbine massacre happened.

Holland Backus, Emma Catherine Leal, Kai Olivet, Abbey Wehby and David Howard, all second graders in Stacy Hein’s class, are proud to follow “The West Way.” Photo courtesy of Alice Elmore.

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VestaviaVoice.com

Play on The Vestavia Hills Rebel Marching Band took top honors during last monthâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Hoover Invitational Marching Festival with superior ratings across the board. The band also received Best in Class recognition for its drum majors and drum line. Photos by Jeff Thompson.

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Vestavia Voice

VETERAN from pg 1

more and deserve more. With this in mind, Mikos has placed an increasing focus on giving back to his brothers in service. His efforts take on many forms, from employment (more than 80 percent of his work force are veterans) — to philanthropy. This marks the third consecutive year Mikos has executed a fundraising campaign tied that donates a portion of his company’s earnings to a veteran-focused 501c3. Through a chance meeting at a recent luncheon for the Hoover Chamber of Commerce, Mikos bumped into an Army veteran affiliated with Team Red, White and Blue. The group’s mission immediately struck a chord with Mikos. “They help veterans get involved in communities, which is so vital,” he said. “A lot of times when they come back, there is not a lot they have in common with average folks. Most people get out of high school, go to college, get a job, and go about their day to day, but for the guys who have spent most of their twenties and thirties in the military, it’s a totally different regimen. There’s just not much in common.” The charity’s focus on adjustment, particularly with veterans struggling with PTSD, confirmed to Mikos that he’d made the right decision. “We don’t set a specific goal, but we will go out and do the best we can,” said Mikos. “My guys will work hard. They understand why we are doing it, and even though they’d never admit it, I know that some of the guys working for us are fighting the same battles for the guys we are helping.”

Cummings Jewelry has been located in Heights Village since 1999. The village is located on one of several streets in Cahaba Heights that lack sidewalks. Photo courtesy Cummings Jewelry.

CAHABA HEIGHTS from pg 1

a beautiful park. She sees no reason why her own community can’t have something similar. Cahaba Heights was annexed into Vestavia Hills in 2002 and in November 2008, Vestavia Hills introduced the Cahaba Heights Community Plan, a focused section of the city’s comprehensive plan. The 60-page document proposes improvements to the community’s entryways, transportation flow, commercial centers, community facilities and neighborhoods. In the early stages of the plan, community workshops were held where more than 200 residents, business people and property owners discussed both the assets and concerns of Cahaba Heights. Assets included the unique village atmosphere, friendly people and ample shopping and employment opportunities within the community. Concerns included few sidewalks,

no community library annex and lack of clear gateways/community focus. “The image needs improving,” Rogers said. “I know the economy went south back in 2006. But more money needs to be put into the area. We have no park. Also, areas like Crosshaven need sidewalks.” Five years later, it is clear for people like Rogers that the community needs answers. In July, Jeff Downes was hired as the new city manager. His strategy to improve the quality of life in Vestavia Hills focuses on local retail development. For Cahaba Heights, he said improvements lie in maximizing mixed-use development. “The plan was developed during a recession period. Cahaba Heights presents a great opportunity for private development and retail,” Downes said. “The goal is to make an area that is a destination, that creates desire.” For business owners, a plan focusing on retail efforts is crucial. Cummings Jewelry has been in Heights Village since 1999 and owner Jennifer Cummings couldn’t be happier at her location. “Everyone loves the convenience of the area and easy accessibility from The Summit and Highway 280,” Cummings said. “Ourselves and our customers enjoy the varied shops in the area and how they are mojority family-owned and non chain-type stores.” However, she is concerned about lack of pedestrian accessibility surrounding the village. “The only thing I would like to see would be sidewalks down Cahaba Heights Road, but I don’t know if that’s a possibility,” Cummings said. “Accessibility means return customers.” Downes noted that the need for more sidewalks voiced by both Rogers and Cummings is a fundamental part of the development process. The plan specifically calls for sidewalks at the intersection of Dolly Ridge Road and Cahaba Heights Road, a central gateway to the community. “The plan does address this desire for pedestrian-friendly streets,” Downes said. “There are certain segments that have great opportunity. The look and feel of these natural

areas should be embraced.” Downes noted the positive aspects of the city over the last five years, such as the significant redevelopment of the parts of the community affected by the 2011 tornadoes. In September, Heights Village gained the new restaurant FoodBar and also hosted the second annual Cahaba Crawl, an evening event that allowed the businesses in the area to showcase fall merchandise. Downes assured residents and business owners that the community has not been forgotten. “We are working very hard to move forward with development projects,” Downes said. “We want people to know there is a daily effort to move forward with Cahaba Heights.” The Cahaba Heights Community Plan can be accessed at vestaviahills.net.

Recommendations from 2008 Cahaba Heights Plan include: ff Gateway signage and landscaping improvements

ff Installing city standard street signs ff Adding a way-finding signage program for commercial centers

ff Improving the intersection of Cahaba Heights Road and Dolly Ridge Road

ff Installing sidewalks and multi-use paths

ff Improving Pipe Line Road and

realigning its intersection with Autumn Lane ff Adding traffic-calming measures on local streets ff Continuing drainage improvements ff Replacing older water lines ff Constructing new public parks ff Creating a Tax Increment Financing District ff Organizing and marketing Cahaba Heights’ businesses

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VestaviaVoice.com

Sports Basketball

is back

2013 Vestavia Hills High School Varsity Girls Basketball Roster Coach: Laura Casey Assistants: Lucy Lindley, Jill Jacobik Managers: Morgan Robinson, Lauren Thackerson Amethyst Stewart (G-Junior) Chelsea Lewis (G-Junior) Bria Terry (G-Junior) Peyton Blaylock (F-Senior) Mica McNutt (G-Junior) Emily Mince (G-Junior) Lena Barrett (F-Senior) Alex Carroll (F-Senior) Jessica Compton (G-Sophomore) Manon Burris (G-Freshman) Kaitlin Hogan (G-Junior) Renesha Evans (F-Sophomore) Brittany Nkashama (F-Senior)

Vestavia Hills Varsity Girls Basketball November Schedule Nov. 12 – at Oak Mountain, 6 p.m. Nov. 15 – Oxford, 6 p.m. Nov. 21 – at Ramsay, 6 p.m. Nov. 22 – at Pelham, 6 p.m. Nov. 23-26 – at Bryant Bank Classic, TBA Dec. 3 – at Spain Park, 6 p.m. Dec. 6 – at Homewood, 6 p.m. Dec. 7 – at Wenonah, 6 p.m.

Vestavia Hills JV Girls Basketball November Schedule Nov. 7 – Rebel Rumble, 4:30 p.m. Nov. 12 – at Oak Mountain, 4:30 p.m. Nov. 14 – Wenonah, 5 p.m. Nov. 15 – Oxford, 4:30 p.m. Nov. 21 – at Ramsay, 4:30 p.m. Nov. 22 – at Pelham, 4:30 p.m. Dec. 3 – at Spain Park, 4:30 p.m. Dec. 7 – at Wenonah, 4:30 p.m.

Vestavia Hills Varsity Boys Basketball November Schedule Nov. 12 – at Oak Mountain, 7:30 p.m. Nov. 14 – Chelsea, 7:15 p.m. Nov. 15 – Oxford, 7:15 p.m. Nov. 22 – at Pelham, 7:30 p.m. Nov. 26 – Rebel Classic, 3 p.m. Dec. 2 – at Pleasant Grove, 7:30 p.m. Dec. 3 – at Spain Park, 7:30 p.m. Dec. 6 – at Homewood, 7:15 p.m.

Vestavia Hills JV Boys Basketball November Schedule Nov. 12 – at Oak Mountain, 4:30 p.m. Nov. 14 – Chelsea, 6 p.m. Nov. 15 – Oxford, 6 p.m. Nov. 21 – at Ramsay, 7 p.m. Nov. 22 – at Pelham, 6 p.m. Dec. 02 – at Pleasant Grove, 4:30 p.m. Dec. 03 – at Spain Park, 6 p.m. Dec. 06 – at Homewood, 6 p.m.

NOVEMBER 21 - 23, 2013

CAHABA GRAND CONFERENCE CENTER U.S. HWY. 280 FREE PARKING

Thursday, November 21 Friday, November 22 Saturday, November 23 9 a.m. - 8 p.m.

. Special Events . 9 a.m. - 8 p.m.

9 a.m. - 5 p.m.

Sneak Peek Party

Wednesday, November 20 7 - 10 p.m.

Market Morning with Sara Evans Thursday, November 21 9:30 - 11 a.m.

Snaps with Santa

Saturday, November 23 9 - 11 a.m.

Tickets

$12 General Admission $24 Market Morning $10 Group Ticket

$36 Sneak Peek Party $12 Snaps with Santa $24 Three Day Must-Have Pass

Changing Spaces Moving EBSCO Media Good People Brewing Company Millie Ray’s Rolls Leon Loard Rare Transportation

30 • November 2013

Vestavia Voice

Community Calendar Vestavia Hills Events Sundays: Salsa Dancing. Vestavia Lodge. 2-3:30 p.m. Email parkadmin@vestaviahillsparks.com. Mondays: Ballroom Dance. Senior Citizen Lodge. 7-9 p.m. Call Zella Listerman at 822-5909. Mondays and Fridays: Bridge. Vestavian Room. 9 a.m. Contact park.res@vestaviahillsparks.com. Nov. 1: First Friday Reception. Artists Incorporated. 5:30-8:30 p.m. Featured artists Pat Dicas, Nelson Grice, Rick McCrary, Nancy Walton and Libby Wright. Wine, food and live music. Free. Call 979-8990 or visit artistsincorporated.com. Nov. 1: Wine Tasting. Vestavia Wine Cellar, 1080 Montgomery Highway next to Red Lobster. 5-6:30 p.m. Email Ashley Tarve at ashley@thewinecellar.info. Nov. 2: Rebelette Rally. 9 a.m.-2 p.m. Open to all dancers in first to eighth grades. $45. Visit vhhsdance.com. Nov. 4: Fall Book Fair. Vestavia Hills Elementary Central. Nov. 5: First Tuesday Bridge Group. Vestavia Room. 9 a.m.-2:30 p.m. Email park.res@ vestaviahillsparks.com

Nov. 5: CERT Training. Vestavia Civic Center. 6:30-8:30 pm. Disaster Psychology. Speaker: Lt. Williamson. Email Nicole Zabriskie at nic.zabriskie@gmail.com. Nov. 6: Parent Awareness Committee Monthly Meeting. Vestavia Hills Board of Education. Noon. Signs and Symptoms of Substance Abuse in Teens by Andy Brindley, M. Ed., addictions specialist. Bring your own lunch. Nov. 7: Veterans Day Assembly. Liberty Park Middle School. Nov. 7: Living History Day. Pizitz Middle School. Nov. 7: Judith March Taste of Teal. Vestavia Country Club. 6 p.m. Sit-down dinner, wine tasting, silent auction and live auction benefits the Laura Crandall Brown Ovarian Cancer Foundation. $50. Visit thinkoflaura.com. Nov. 7: Viva Vestavia XI. Hollywood Pools, 1441 Montgomery Highway. 6:30-9 p.m. A taste of fabulous Vestavia Hills restaurant fare and fine wines. $40 per person (85 percent tax deductible). Includes a Viva Vestavia XI commemorative etched wine glass. Visit vestaviahills.org. Nov. 8: Magical Marketplace. Vestavia Hills United

Methodist Church, 2061 Kentucky Ave. 9 a.m.-4 p.m. Visit facebook. com/magicalmarketplace or call 967-0029.

p.m. This free presentation by Len Corcoran is sponsored by Vestavia Toastmasters. Sign up at Vestavia. toastmastersclub.org.

Nov. 8: Veterans Day Program. Vestavia Hills Elementary Central. 9 a.m.

Nov. 14: Driving School. Vestavia Civic Center. Email program@vestaviahillsparks.com

Nov. 8: Fabulous Faculty Friday. Vestavia Hills High School.

Nov. 18: Library Book Fair. Vestavia Hills Elementary Cahaba Heights.

Nov. 9: CERT Final Review and Disaster Drill. Vestavia Civic Center. 9 a.m.-1 p.m. Email Nicole Zabriskie at nic.zabriskie@ gmail.com. Nov. 11: Vestavia City Schools Closed. In observance of Veteran’s Day. Nov. 12: Vestavia Lions Club Meeting. Vestavia Hills Board of Education. 6:30-7:30 p.m. Visitors welcome. Email Phil Min at pemin@mac.com. Nov. 12: Vestavia Chamber of Commerce Monthly Luncheon. Vestavia Country Club. 11:30 a.m. Reservations must be received by 4 p.m. the Friday prior to the luncheon and cost $18. Late reservations and walk-ins cost $25. Call 823-5011. Nov. 12: How to Change Anyone – or Any Situation. Mr. Wang’s Restaurant, 217 Lakeshore Parkway, Homewood. 7

Nov. 18: Beautification Board Monthly Meeting. Vestavia Lodge. 9:30 a.m-noon. Nov. 18: Caring and Sharing Week. Vestavia East. Nov. 19: Fourth-Grade Play. Liberty Park Elementary School. 5:30 p.m. Nov. 21: Retiree Reception. Vestavia East. 3 p.m. Nov. 26: Vestavia Lions Club Meeting. Vestavia Hills Board of Education. 6:30-7:30 p.m. Visitors welcome. Email Phil Min at pemin@mac.com. Nov. 26: Parent Brown Bag Lunch. Liberty Park Middle School. Tonya Wallace of FOCUS will speak on ADD/ADHD. Nov. 28-29: Vestavia City Schools Closed. Thanksgiving Holidays.

Greater Birmingham area events Nov. 1: James Farmer Book Signing. 11 a.m. Gus Mayer, 214 Summit Blvd. Farmer will sign his best-selling books A Time to Plant, Sip & Savor, Porch Living, Wreaths for All Seasons and A Time to Cook. Call 910-6393. Nov. 2: Drug Prevention Walk. 8 a.m. Jefferson State Community CollegeShelby/Hoover Campus. Walk to prevent drug abuse against teens. Admission free with donation of a canned food item, school supply item or personal hygiene item. Call 874-8498. Nov. 2-3: Moss Rock Festival. Saturday 10 a.m.-5 p.m., Sunday 10 a.m.-4 p.m. The Preserve, 616 Preserve Parkway. Explore nature, eco ideas, art + design at Alabama’s premier eco-creative festival now in its eighth year. Call 595-6306. Nov. 3: Rain: A Tribute to the Beatles. 7 p.m. BJCC Concert Hall. Call 800-745-3000. Nov. 2-3: St. Nicholas Russian/Slavic Food Festival. Saturday 10 a.m.-4 p.m., Sunday noon-5 p.m. St. Nicholas Russian Orthodox Church, Park and Pastor Streets, Brookside. Call 285-9648. Nov. 5: Christy Jordan Book Signing. 7 p.m. Books-A-Million, Colonial Brookwood Village. Jordan, blogger at southernplate.com, will speak and sign copies of her new book, Come Home to Supper.

November 2013 • 31

VestaviaVoice.com Dec. 4: City Tree Lighting Ceremony. Civic Center. SAVE Dec. 7: Breakfast With Santa. Vestavia Lodge. THE DATE Dec. 8: City Christmas Parade. Liberty Park.

Vestavia Hills Library in the Forest

November

events

Greater Birmingham area events Nov. 5: Ring of Fire - The Music of Johnny Cash. 7:30 p.m. Wright Center, Samford University. Visit samford.edu/wrightcenter. Nov. 6-10: Disney on Ice: Princesses & Heroes. BJCC. Call 800-745-3000. Nov. 6-10: Christmas Village Festival. BJCC. Arts, crafts and gifts festival with more than 700 booths. $10 adults, $4 children 6-12. Visit christmasvillagefestival.com. Nov. 7: UAB’s Alys Stephens Performing Arts Center Presents: Anoushka Shankar. 7 p.m. Alys Stephen Center, 1200 Tenth Avenue South. Call 9752787. Nov. 7: Reel Paddling Film Festival. 6-9 p.m. Avondale Brewing Company. $10 in advance, $15 at the door. Rapid Media’s 8th annual Reel Paddling Film Festival showcases the world’s best paddling films. Presenting by Birmngham Canoe Club. Call 907-3374. Nov. 7-17: Jesus Christ Superstar. Virginia Samford Theatre, 1116 26th Street South. $30-35. Visit virginiasamfordtheatre.org. Nov. 8: ASO Red Diamond SuperPOPS! Series: The Music of Ella Fitzgerald with Patti Austin. 7:30 p.m. Wright Center, Samford University. Visit samford.edu/wrightcenter. Nov. 8: David Sedaris. 8 p.m. Alys Stephens Center Jemison Concert Hall, 1200 Tenth Ave. South. The humorist will celebrate the release of his ninth book, Let’s Explore Diabetes with Owls. $41.50-61.50. Visit alys-

stephens.org or call 975-2787.

$10. Call 776-5311.

Nov. 9: Phi Mu Children’s Miracle Run. 8 a.m. Homewood Park. Proceeds go to Children’s Hospital of Alabama. Visit helpmakemiracles.org/event/phimu5k2013.

Nov. 22: Fall FestivAle. 7 p.m. Old Car Heaven, 115 South 35th Street. Presented by Free the Hops and featuring seasonal and unique beers from Alabama breweries. $27 in advance, $37 at the door. Call 531-5085.

Nov. 9-10: Alabama Designer Craftsmen’s Annual Fine Crafts Show. 10 a.m.-5 p.m. daily. Birmingham Botanical Gardens. Visit alabamadesignercraftsmen.com. Nov. 9: Harvest Festival. 10 a.m.-3 p.m. Crestwood Festival, 7001 Crestwood Blvd. Nov. 10: Choral Evensong. 3 p.m. Cathedral Church of the Advent, 2017 Sixth Avenue North. A service of prayers, lessons and anthems. Nov. 12: Tap Dancer Savion Glover STePz. 7:30 p.m. Wright Center, Samford University. Visit samford.edu/wrightcenter. Nov. 15-16: A Southern Christmas Bazaar. Friday 2-8 p.m., Saturday 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Pelham Civic Center. More than 50 merchants will be present. Event benefits projects of the Alabaster-Pelham Rotary Club. Visit rotarysouthernchristmas.com or call 414-3672. Nov. 18: Bela Fleck with Brooklyn Rider. 7:30 p.m. Wright Center, Samford University. Visit samford.edu/wrightcenter. Nov. 19-20: Briarwood Christmas at the Caroline House. 9:30 a.m., 6:30 p.m. Briarwood Presbyterian Church. A holiday decorator’s show house. Briarwood Ballet will perform, and Anita Barker Barnes will speak.

Nov. 20-23: Market Noel. Cahaba Grand Conference Center. Sponsored by the Junior League of Birmingham. Visit jlbonline. com. Nov. 21-23: Bridge Tournament. Morning, afternoon, and evening at Birmingham Duplicate Bridge Club, 144 Business Center Drive, 35244. Visit bridgewebs.com/Birmingham. Nov. 24: Service of Choral Evensong. 4 p.m. Independent Presbyterian Church, 3100 Highland Avenue. IPC Camerata will provide the service music of this Christ the King Evensong. Nov. 22: Civil War Voices. 7:30 p.m. Wright Center, Samford University. Visit samford.edu/wrightcenter. Nov. 24: Handel’s Messiah. 3 p.m. Riverchase United Methodist Church. Alabama Civic Chorale will present their 66th annual performance with professional soloists and members of the Alabama Symphony Orchestra. Free. Visit alabamacivicchorale.com. Nov. 24-Dec. 20: Santa’s Adventure at the Merrywood Mega Mall. Wee Folks Series. Birmingham Children’s Theatre. Visit bct123.org.

Contact Eden Pfaff at epfaff@bham.lib.al.us or 978-4678 for more. Nov. 9: The Fourth Dimension Book Group. 3-5 p.m. Come try our new Sci-Fi Book Club! Led by sci-fi aficionado Estelle Helms, this group will meet the second Saturday of each month. Nov. 12: Family Night with Skin and Bones. 6 p.m. supper, 6:30 p.m show. Quesadillas from Sol Azteca and the comedy of husband-and-wife clown/animal act Skin and Bones. All ages welcome. Call 978-0158 to register. Nov. 14: Java Knit. 2-3 p.m. Love to knit or crochet? Want to learn how? Drop in and enjoy the company of other crafters the second Thursday of each month. Bring your own needles and yarn, and we supply the java, tea and snacks. For more, contact Eden Pfaff at epfaff@bham.lib.al.us or 978-4678. Nov. 14: Preschool Pals: Don’t Let The Pigeon Come to the Party! 10:30 a.m. The pigeon recounts the time he tried to drive the bus, eat a hot dog and get a puppy. Afterward, make your own pigeon craft. Ages 5 and under. Must call 978-0158 to register. Nov. 14: OLLI: Estate Planning with Jay Greene. 1:30-3:30 p.m. For more, contact Eden Pfaff at epfaff@bham.lib.al.us or 978-4678. Nov. 20: Book Group: And the Mountains Echoed by Khaled Hosseini. 2-3 p.m. For more, contact Eden Pfaff at epfaff@bham.lib.al.us or 978-4678.

OPEN HOUSE

Baker Lamps & Linens dwellings - furniture & design studio Fri. Nov. 15, 10-5 & Sat. Nov. 16, 10-3 5299 Valleydale Road • 981-3330

Drawings for discounts up to

40% OFF

of your total purchase

32 â&#x20AC;˘ November 2013

Vestavia Voice