VillageLivingOnline.com
October 2013
Village Living neighborly news & entertainment for Mountain Brook
Volume 4 | Issue 7 | October 2013
Guised as another
• A1
Time to say
good bye Crestline Piggly Wiggly to close by Nov. 30
Put on your costume and come out to Crestline Village for the annual Mystics of Mountain Brook Parade on Halloween. More details inside. Photo by Ivey Jackson.
Community page B7
Parke amendments
Plans for the Lane Parke development in Mountain Brook Village have been tweaked to scale down in density. Find the latest updates on what the plan entails in this issue.
City page A10
INSIDE
By JEFF THOMPSON & INTISAR SERAAJ-SABREE Debbie Norris walks the aisles of the Crestline Piggly Wiggly with her granddaughter, Emme Smith. “Say, ‘I’m going to miss my doughnuts and cheese puffs at the Pig,’” she motions to Emme. “It would make me start crying at the thought that we won’t be able to have our morning doughnut and our cheese puffs in the buggy.” When the Pig opened, it became “our store,” Norris explains. She shopped there with her children and even brought them to trick-or-treat growing up. And now she does the same with her children’s children. Across the store, Charles Cooper is thinking about how he will be missing more than Halloween candy and cheese puffs when the store closes its doors for good next month.
See Pig | page A22
Farlow to draw from experience for this month’s Mid-Amateur Tournament
Shoppers and staff at Piggly Wiggly in Crestline Village are preparing for the store’s closing next month: Debbie Norris and granddaughter Emme Smith (top), Produce Manager Charles Cooper (above left), and Manager Frank Campbell (above right). Photos by Intisar Seraaj-Sabree.
Home-field advantage By JEFF THOMPSON
Sponsors ......... A4 Chamber ......... A6 City ................... A7 Business .......... A12 Food ................. A14 School House.. A16 Sports ............. A21 Community ..... B2 Faith ................ B12 Calendar ......... B13
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Bo Farlow, who will play in the USGA Mid-Amateur Tournament at The Country Club of Birmingham this month, has been playing the Club’s courses since he was 6 years old. Photo by Jeff Thompson.
One Mountain Brook golfer doesn’t have to look far to find a role model. Bo Farlow is the son of Sam Farlow, one of the most accomplished golfers — both amateur and professional — from the state of Alabama. At 35, Sam won his first event and started on a path that would lead to winning the Alabama Amateur and Senior Amateur 10 times and playing in 40 tournaments on the PGA tour. And at 28 years old, Bo might have taken a few steps ahead. In August, Bo, a resident of Crestline Village, shot a 73 at Shoal Creek to put him in a playoff with other accomplished local golfers vying for a spot in the 2013 United States Mid-Amateur Championship, commonly called the Mid-Am. Not only did he survive the playoff, but he also took second place in the qualifier from a field of close to 100. The win earned him one of only 264 spots in the upcoming USGA event. The Mid-Am is scheduled to start Oct. 5 at The
See Mid-Am | page A23
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A2 • October 2013
Village Living
by Southerland
VillageLivingOnline.com
October 2013
• A3
A4 • October 2013
Village Living
About Us Photo of the Month
The Schaeffer Eye Center Fashions for the Foundation raised $13,500 for the Mountain Brook City Schools Foundation. Presenting a check last month were, from left: Suzan Doidge, executive director, Mountain Brook Chamber of Commerce; Anne Womack, executive director, City Schools Foundation; Dr. Jack Schaffer; Dr. Susan Salter; Dr. Barbara Monaghan; Dr. Brooke Kaplan; Lloyd Shelton, president, City Schools Foundation; and Kaye Emack, executive vice president, Chamber of Commerce. Photo by Jeff Thompson.
Editor’s Note By Jennifer Gray Fall is one of my favorite times of the year. I love when the cooling temperatures allow me and my family to spend more time outside enjoying our city. But my excitement this season is truly tempered. Our beloved Piggly Wiggly in Crestline is closing its doors after decades of providing this community with great groceries and friendly service. I know plenty of Pig regulars who will miss their nightly stop to pick up ingredients for that evening’s meal. We talked to residents about their feelings on the loss of the Pig. Read what they had to say in our cover story, and find more comments on page A22.
As we watch the final days of a Crestline Village icon pass in front of us, we can show our support for its employees and be thankful for the time it was here. Although this issue starts on a sour note, I can’t help but be excited for Mountain Brook. October kicks off with The Country Club of Birmingham hosting the 2013 USGA Mid-Amateur Tournament, sure to be a fantastic event, and wraps up with the annual Mystics of Mountain Brook Parade on Halloween. Read more about both in this issue – the tournament in our cover story, and the parade on page B7. Packed in the middle of those two
events, Mountain Brook residents can find hundreds more things to do, from cheering on our Spartans on Friday nights as they approach playoff season (page A21) to dropping by the Birmingham Botanical Gardens for its annual Fall Plant Sale or – my personal favorite – Antiques at the Gardens. Read more about these fantastic events on pages B3 and B8. Fall is definitely here, so let’s celebrate together as a community. The next time I see you, it’ll likely be outdoors!
Village Living Publisher : Creative Director : Editor : Managing Editor : Executive Editor: Advertising Manager: Sales and Distribution :
Dan Starnes Keith McCoy Jennifer Gray Madoline Markham Jeff Thompson Matthew Allen Rhonda Smith Warren Caldwell Michelle Salem Haynes Keith Richardson Contributing Writers : Kari Kampakis Dale Wisely Katie Turpen Intisar Seraaj-Sabree Interns : Syndey Cromwell Lauren Moriarty Published by : Village Living LLC
School House Contributors : Catherine Gasque- Cherokee Bend, Lisa Stone - Crestline, Kathleen Woodry- Brookwood Forest, Suzanne Milligan- Mountain Brook High School, Hilary Ross- Mountain Brook Elem. , Elizabeth Farrar- Mountain Brook Jr. High Contributing Photographer: Image Arts Contact Information: Village Living #3 Office Park Circle, Suite 316 Birmingham, AL 35223 313-1780 dan@VillageLivingOnline.com
Please submit all articles, information and photos to: Jennifer@VillageLivingOnline.com P.O. Box 530341 Birmingham, AL 35253
For advertising contact: dan@VillageLivingOnline.com
Legals: Village Living is published monthly. Reproduction or use of editorial or graphic content without prior permission is prohibited. Village Living is designed to inform the Mountain Brook community of area school, faith, family and community events. Information in Village Living is gathered from sources considered reliable but the accuracy cannot be guaranteed. All articles/photos submitted become the property of Village Living. 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) 370-0732 or by email.
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Please Support our Community Partners A Tiny Kingdom (B6) Alabama Power (B2) Alan Sheffield (A18) Amy Smith (B4) Bariatrics of Alabama (B10) Bates, Roberts, Fowlkes & Jackson Insurance (A7) Bedzzz Express (A2) Birmingham Botanical Gardens (A16) Birmingham Speech and Hearing Associates (B12) Brandino Brass (A17) Briarcliff Shop (A22) Bromberg & Company, Inc. (B7) Cafe Iz (A11) Cahaba Dermatology and Skin Care Center (A12) Canterbury Gardens (B9) Cookies By Design (B5) Dish’n It Out (B5) Eich Plastic Surgery (A8) Eighteenth Street Orientals (B3) Embody Manual & Movement Therapy (A21) Etc. (A5) Fi-Plan Parnters (B1) Granger Thagard Associates (B11) Hair By Farrah & Micah (A21) Hearlab (A6) Hufham Orthodontics (A18) Indian Springs School (A16) Iron Tribe (B16) Isbell Jewelers (B9) Issis & Sons (A14) Jacqueline DeMarco (B11) John-William Jeweller (A23) Junior League of Birmingham (B8) Kirkwood by the River (B6) Lamb’s Ears Ltd (A9) Lane Parke - Evson Inc. (A19) Little Hardware, Inc (A23) Mobley & Sons (B12) Monkee’s of Mountain Brook (B13) Mountain Brook Chamber of Commerce (A15) Mountain Brook Plastic Surgery & Laser Center (A20) One Man’s Trash Antiques (B4) Otey’s (A22) Pilates On Highland (B11) Ray Building Company (A20) RealtySouth (A24) Renasant Bank (A3) Samford After Sundown (A11) Savage’s Bakery (B3) Snoozy’s Kids (A18) Swoop (B4) Taco Mama (A10) The Cook Store (B4) Town and Country (A20) Turning the Tables Room Renovations (B7) Tutoring Club Cahaba Heights (A17) UAB Medicine (A13) United Way (A21) Village Dermatology (A5) Village Park Builders (A10) Vulcan Park and Museum (B5)
VillageLivingOnline.com
October 2013
• A5
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A6 • October 2013
Village Living
Chamber of Commerce Fashion event supports Schools Foundation (Right) MBHS PTO president Nicky Barnes, right, and Diana Browning, left, model clothes and accessories from Monkee’s of Mountain Brook. (below right) Salter Hydinger sports an ensemble from Snap Kids.
The latest fall fashions met the runway at The Club on Sept. 10 for the Schaeffer Eye Center Fashions for the Foundation. Familiar faces like Crestline Elementary Principal Laurie King, City Council Member Billy Pritchard, Mountain Brook Schools Superintendent Dicky Barlow as well as a number of Mountain Brook students and parents walked the runway to display Mountain Brook retailers’ current styles. Participating retailers were Harrison Ltd., Laura Kathryn, Lingerie Shoppe, Macy’s, Marella.
ChamberChat Will Haver Will Haver, owner of Otey’s Tavern and Taco Mama, talked with us about serving on the Mountain Brook Chamber of Commerce and what he loves about Mountain Brook and its businesses. He serves as vice president of marketing and communications for Crestline Village. Why did you choose to get involved with the Chamber? Amy Jackson asked me to serve on the board via my wife, Leigh Haver, and I was blown away because I never thought that I was important or official enough to be involved with such a great organization.
Mobley & Sons, Monkee’s of Mountain Brook, Mountain Brook Sporting Goods, Mountain High Outfitters, Pants Store, Snap Kids, The Pink Tulip, Town and Country and Village Sportswear. All proceeds from the event benefited the Mountain Brook City Schools Foundation. The show was produced by Haute Pink and presented by Schaeffer Eye Center. Village Dermatology was the gold sponsor, and Liberty Animal Hospital, P.C., Alabama’s 13 and St. Vincent’s Bruno Cancer Center/Dr. Susan Salter were silver sponsors.
What is your favorite Mountain Brook business? Why? This is a terrible question for me because I have so many that I love. I’ll give you my top 11. These are not in any certain order: Dyron’s, Gilchrist, Snoozy’s, Mountain Brook Creamery, The Pig, Total Fitness Consultants, Tracy’s Restaurant, Bongiorno, Mountain Brook Sporting Goods, The Pants Store and Mobley & Sons. They all take a lot of pride in what they do. Why do you buy local? It’s so important to buy local. Keeping dollars in your community
means keeping the community intact. The small businesses is the fabric of our country. If you don’t make a effort to remember to do business with the awesome local stores that we are fortunate to have in this great city, then they will slowly die off. It’s very important to buy local, not only in Birmingham, but everywhere. Plus, I like the relationship aspect of doing business. What is something that people might not know about you? I can walk and chew chewing gum at the same time, and I am really good looking.
VillageLivingOnline.com
October 2013
• A7
City
CRIME REPORT Week of Aug. 22-29 Unlawful Breaking / Entering of a Vehicle: A UBEV case occurred in the 3700 block of Dover Drive between Aug. 21-22. Unknown suspect(s) entered the victim’s unlocked vehicle and stole a firearm. A UBEV case occurred in the 4000 block of Wilderness Road between Aug. 6-15. Unknown suspect(s) entered the victim’s unlocked vehicle and stole electronic equipment. Case Investigation Update: A business burglary was reported in the 600 block of Brookwood Village on Aug. 21. A suspect was arrested and charged in Texas. Stolen property was recovered. Week of Aug. 30-Sept. 5 Burglary / Residential (Attempted): An attempted residential burglary occurred in the 100 block of Beechwood Road on Aug. 29. Unknown suspect(s) attempted to pry open a door at the rear of the residence. There was no entry into the residence. Burglary / Business: A burglary of a business occurred in the 2700 block of Cahaba Road on Aug. 31. Unknown suspect(s) broke the glass out of the front door and entered the business. Prescription medications were stolen. Burglary / Residential: A residential burglary occurred in the 4300 block of Wilderness Road on Aug. 31. Unknown suspect(s) entered the residence and stole electronics and jewelry. There was no forced entry. Case Investigation Update: On July
16, a residential burglary was reported in the 20 block of Ridge Drive. A similar burglary was reported on Sept. 17 in the 200 block of Annandale Crescent. A suspect has been identified in both of these cases. Week of Sept. 6-13 Burglary / Residential: A residential burglary occurred in the 400 block of Dexter Avenue between Sept. 1-6. Miscellaneous household items were stolen. A residential burglary occurred in the 100 block of Dexter Avenue between Aug. 28-Sept. 10. Unknown suspect(s) entered the victim’s residence and stole a television, computer and clothing. The method of entry is unknown. Burglary / Business: A business burglary occurred in the 2700 block of Cahaba Road on Sept. 10. Unknown suspect(s) broke the glass out of the front door and entered the business. U.S. currency was stolen. Unlawful Breaking / Entering of a Vehicle: A UBEV occurred at the intersection of Overton Road and Locksley Drive. Unknown suspect(s) stole a backpack blower from the victim’s vehicle. Case Investigation Update: On the night June 21, a residential burglary was reported in the 4200 block of Antietam Drive. A subject has been charged in this case. The subject is suspected to be involved in other similar cases. -Submitted by Mountain Police Department
Brook
City honors parks and recreation superintendent Last month the Mountain Brook City Council adopted a resolution honoring retiring Parks and Recreation superintendent Lyman Tidwell. Tidwell retired at the end of September after serving a 25-year career with the City of Mountain Brook’s Park and Recreation Department. The resolution stated that Tidwell “has strived for excellence in leading his team in making Mountain Brook’s parks and playing fields the best they can be by providing a wonderful place for our residents to walk and play.” Under his leadership, the department grew from five to 16 employees. He was instrumental in the sidewalk construction at Jemison Park and installation of three picnic tables and 11 benches at Jemison and other parks. He was also involved in the completion of the MBHS Athletic Complex, two new Parks/ Recreation facilities, a 22-acre addition of turf grass and additional playing fields under the Community Fields Project. During his tenure, Overton Park, Canterbury Park, the Irondale Furnace and
Lyman Tidwell
Crestline Tot Lot were renovated, water fountains were added at Jemison Park, and the Mountain Brook Elementary playing field and restroom facilities at Overton Park came into being.
Mountain Brook residents to receive community survey The Mountain Brook City Council has approved a marketing research firm, ETC Institute, to design and administer a community survey in January. The survey’s purpose is to determine where residents stand on city issues and to prioritize project funding. Mountain Brook businesses and residents will be selected at random to take the survey. Those selected will be notified by an advance phone call and will then be mailed the survey. Participants will have the additional option of completing it online or over the phone. The survey is projected to take up to 15 minutes.
Residents will be asked to rank their satisfaction with city services including police/fire/ambulance, parks programs/facilities, water/sewer/electric utilities, street maintenance and city employee customer service. Participants will also be asked what services should receive the most emphasis from the county over the next two years. The survey process will occur over a period of three months, and the ETC Institute will compile and analyze results and deliver the final presentation to city and community leaders. Three to five priorities will be established for the city government from the results.
A8 • October 2013
Village Living
Etched in the city Engraved bricks for Municipal Complex courtyard fund city projects, tornado relief
Mountain Brook Mayor Terry Oden presents a check for $14,000 to Pleasant Grove Mayor Jerry Brasseale at the Municipal Complex opening in August. The funds were raised from the sale of etched bricks that now are in the complex’s courtyard. Photo courtesy of Mountain Brook Chamber of Commerce.
By MADOLINE MARKHAM More than 400 Mountain Brook residents, past and present, now have a new residence in Crestline. Their names are etched into bricks in the Spartan Square courtyard in front of the new Municipal Complex, but their position is not exclusive. A new round of brick sales will begin this month, according to Hannon Davidson of the Mountain Brook Chamber of Commerce. “We have gotten a great response so far,” Davidson said. “They are proud to have their family member out there, and other
people are wanting to be included in the second phase.” Up to 1,000 more bricks can be ordered to be engraved and dedicated to current or past Mountain Brook residents. The new bricks will fill in open spaces in the courtyard that will surround a 16-foot-wide brick-encased fountain with a 7-foot geyser. The fountain should be installed later this year, according to complex architect Nimrod Long of Nimrod Long Associates, and will be named after Carl Wittichen, longtime trustee of the Linn-Henley Charitable Trust. The foundation donated $250,000
to build the fountain, said City Council member Amy Carter. One of Wittichen’s favorite poems, “If” by Rudyard Kipling, will be printed on a plaque next to the fountain. But the bricks’ place in the community doesn’t stop in the courtyard. All funds raised from each $100 brick will go to future Leadership Mountain Brook projects and to Spartans Helping Spartans tornado relief in Pleasant Grove, just as the first phase did. As a result of the first set of sales, the City of Mountain Brook presented Pleasant Grove Mayor Jerry Brasseale with a check for $14,000 at the Municipal Complex Open House in August. Other funds have been set aside for future Leadership Mountain Brook projects, which this past year included installing recycling bins in the villages and creating a mobile site for the Chamber of Commerce. The brick project started as a way for the first Leadership Mountain Brook class to fund their proposed city projects, but after April 27, 2011, the class decided to donate some of the proceeds to tornado relief efforts as a part of Mountain Brook’s Spartans Helping Spartans focus on helping Pleasant Grove. To purchase a brick, visit welcometomountainbrook.com, complete the order form, and mail it to the Chamber with a check. Students in this year’s Leadership Mountain Brook class will also be selling the bricks.
Public meeting next step in Mountain Brook Sidewalk Master Plan
By KATIE TURPEN The planning stages for Phase 9 of the Mountain Brook Sidewalk Master Plan are underway. City Manager Sam Gaston said the next step in the process is a public involvement meeting at a location to be determined. The meeting is planned for either late October or early November, and all residents who live near the proposed location of the sidewalks are invited to attend. “It will be chance to talk with residents about the project and address their property concerns,” Gaston said. In September, Sain Associates was authorized by the Mountain Brook City Council for the construction and engineering of the sidewalk project. The engineering firm will lead the meeting and present a large map, which will identify potential impacts for neighboring property owners. Sain Associates will record comments of the meeting for consideration by the city. Sidewalk construction is planned for Cantebury Road, Overhill Road, Watkins Road, Vine Street and West Montcrest Drive.
VillageLivingOnline.com
October 2013
City’s proposed budget includes creation of Cahaba River Park By SYDNEY CROMWELL As Mountain Brook plans its budget for the 2014 fiscal year, the city government could be looking at a surplus. The finance committee met with the mayor and City Council on Aug. 27 to review the proposed budget of more than $32 million. Based on current projections of revenue and expenditures, the city anticipates a surplus of more than $475,000. A significant portion of the planned budget is taken up by various building and improvement projects, including $984,000 for street paving and about $450,000 for the Public Works Department to build sidewalks, pedestrian bridges, street crossing signals and other road improvements. More than $850,000 has been allocated for sidewalks at Crestline and Mountain Brook Elementary Schools as part of the national Safe Routes to Schools project. The Parks and Recreation department will receive more than $475,000 to develop Cahaba River Park and pay for other building expenses such as roofing the restroom entrance at Overton Park and studying lighting at athletic fields. Some of this money will also go toward a new laborer position that will be added because of the creation of Cahaba River Park. Mountain Brook will also dispense substantial money for upgrades to its emergency services. The fire department will receive about $100,000 to purchase new technology and two ambulance stretchers, as well as renovate bathrooms at Station No. 2 and No. 3. The police department’s funds will go toward hiring a new patrol officer and financing several different projects. These include $44,500 for furniture purchases, $42,600 for detention records storage, $34,000 for traffic studies on U.S. 280 and $28,000 for cameras, software and other technology. The proposed budget will foot the bill for increases in employee pension and insurance costs as well, which is estimated to cost around $360,000. Other expenditures include new furniture for the Municipal Complex, adding six new positions at Emmet O’Neal Library and antenna-boosters
Police Department collecting prescription drugs By SYDNEY CROMWELL
Rendering of plans for Cahaba River Park
at Mountain Brook Junior High and Cherokee Bend Elementary to improve phone communications. The city council also plans to spend $30,000 for public Wi-Fi access in several locations and $20,000 on a survey of resident satisfaction with city services. The 2014 budget is still being studied and revised by the finance committee and department heads. Its final version could be approved during the Sept. 23 Council meeting and enacted on Oct. 1 at the beginning of the fiscal year.
Agreement with Bright House Networks approved Service from cable television provider Bright House Networks will soon be available in Mountain Brook. Following the Mountain Brook City Council’s approval of a five-year agreement in July, Bright House is cleared to provide cable to residents. In exchange, the agreement lists several items of compensation for the city: • Bright House will pay the city 5 percent
• A9
of its gross revenues in quarterly installments. The company may designate a portion of subscribers’ bills to recover this cost. It is also required to pay the city a fee of 25 cents per subscriber per month. • Bright House will make available one digital channel that the city will use to provide educational and governmental programming. This channel will become available when
subscribers in the area reach 1,000 or 18 months after the agreement takes effect. • The company agreed to interconnect with other cable or video providers to deliver educational and governmental programming. • Bright House will provide complimentary basic cable to each public school, as well as buildings that house municipal government administration, police, fire and library services.
Mountain Brook Police Department will once again participate in the National Prescription Take-Back Initiative. On Oct. 26 from 10 a.m.-2 p.m., citizens can drop off unused, unwanted or out-of-date prescription drugs at the police department building at 101 Tibbett Street. Take-Back Day is sponsored by the Drug Enforcement Administration to safely dispose of prescription medications. Participation in the program is anonymous and no-questions asked. Mountain Brook residents can simply empty their unwanted medications into a container at the drop-off site without giving their names or filling out forms. The department recommends removing names and confidential information from pill bottles or other packaging to ensure that information remains private. The police department hopes confidentiality will encourage residents to get rid of medications safely rather than dumping them into the water supply or allowing them to fall into unsafe hands. Last year, the Take-Back program collected more than 1 million pounds of unused prescription drugs nationwide, and Mountain Brook Police collected more than 60 pounds through their fall and spring collections. For more information, contact the police department at 879-0486.
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A10 • October 2013
Village Living
Polishing Lane Parke Council approves amended development plan that features a reduction in density and more green space By JEFF THOMPSON In August, Lane Parke developers introduced a polished plan for the site that includes a significant reduction in density. The changes include not only more green space and higher-quality structures, but also a better adherence to the “feel” of Mountain Brook Village. “Now that we’ve refined and know exactly what we’re building, there is probably less than a 1 percent difference in terms of the total economic project, which is going to be approaching $120 million,” said Pat Henry, chief development officer with Daniel Corporation. “While it’s down in square footage, the economic investment is about the same.” Changes to the development plan include a density reduction of 22 percent, highlighted by a decrease in leasable office and retail space and the removal of the parking deck. These reductions also allow for Daniel Corporation, the company responsible for developing the site in conjunction with Evson, Inc., to perform construction in multiple phases. Pat Henry, chief development officer with Daniel Corporation, addressed the Mountain Brook City Council in August about the Lane Parke development. Plans for the site in Mountain Brook Village have been tweaked to scale down in density. Photo by Jeff Thompson.
On Aug. 26, the Mountain Brook City Council approved these changes to the original Planned Unit Development (PUD).
The first phase consists of constructing the residential areas of the site. Currently underway, 276 apartment units are being built on one-third of the site’s nearly 28 acres. Scheduled next is the “Inn” phase, during which the 100room Grand Bohemian Hotel will be constructed. Henry anticipated work on the hotel would begin this month. By the end of the year, the project’s “Grocery” phase is expected to be underway. Currently, Western Supermarket is in lease negotiations to occupy the planned space, which the company reports to be approximately 25 percent larger than the space it occupies in Mountain Brook Village. “At this time we do not have a signed lease,” said Darwin Metcalf with Western Supermarket’s corporate office. “We are very close to finalizing, and we hope to sign in the coming days.” The final phase of construction will be the “Retail/ Commercial” section. This area is arranged at the bottom of the list to prepare for two eventual outcomes – each reliant on a decision by Rite Aid Pharmacy. Henry said the redrafted PUD includes preparation for the possibility that Rite-Aid,
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currently located in Mountain Brook Plaza, might elect to retain its lease in its existing space, which expires in 2019. If the company chooses to do so, Daniel Corporation is prepared to execute the other development phases and would finish commercial development when it can remove the existing Plaza. “By creating this interim plan, the owners and developers will provide an opportunity for this retailer to continue to operate, as well as other retailers who can choose to stay in the interim location subject to certain conditions,” read the Council minutes from the Aug. 26 meeting. According to the council, if the interim phase were necessary, it would encompass 35,000 square feet. The area would house three existing retailers as well as Regions Bank, Treadwell Barbers, and a post office. Overall, the City Council was receptive to the revised PUD, though they did have several questions related to planned roadwork around the site and the development of Jemison Park. “First of all, we’re pleased with the additional green space – very pleased,” Council President Virginia Smith said. “You know that’s been important to me all along.”
VillageLivingOnline.com
October 2013
• A11
What to expect from the updated vision for Lane Parke Plans for the Kessler Collection’s Grand Bohemian Hotel have been upgraded. The structure will now include on-site parking and an added portico according to the amended development plan. By the numbers: 100 rooms Construction to begin: October 2013 Construction completed: Fall 2014
The Apartment phase of construction is currently underway. East of the apartments, Daniel Corporation and Evson, Inc. are developing Jemison Park as part of the site. By the numbers: 276 units Construction to begin: Summer 2013 Construction completed: Fall 2014
The Retail / Commercial section of development will be the final phase. It will include fewer buildings with lower height than planned five years ago.
The Grocery phase of development will include a reduction in office space and the removal of the parking deck.
By the numbers: Retail space Current 72,000 square feet
By the numbers: Office space Current 7,000 square feet
2012 PUD 160,000 square feet 2013 PUD 110,000 square feet Construction to begin: Tentative Construction completed: Tentative
2012 PUD 30,000 square feet 2013 PUD 7,000 square feet Construction to begin: Winter 2013 Construction completed: Winter 2014, Spring 2015
A12 • October 2013
Village Living
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Now Open Children’s boutique Duck Duck Goose is now open at 81 Church St. in Crestline Village. The store, owned by Stephanie Bond, sells heirloom and special occasion wear; everyday clothing, shoes and accessories; and gifts, stationery and invitations. 870-4027. wearduckduckgoose.com.
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Urban Cookhouse is now serving up salads, sandwiches and more. The restaurant is located at 212 Country Club Park next to Otey’s Tavern in Crestline Village. 803-3535. urbancookhouse.com
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VillageLivingOnline.com
October 2013 • A13
Coming Soon Olio Specialty Oils & Balsamics plans to open in Mountain Brook Village in mid to late October. The individually owned store, 2411 Montevallo Road, sells specialty olive oils, balsamic vinegars and accessories. oliooilsandbalsamics.com.
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John Bromberg and Billy Bromberg are opening John-William Jeweller in the former R Meyer location in Crestline Village.
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Tonya Jones SalonSpa is opening a second location in the former Richard Joseph SalonSpa space in English Village, 2410 Fairway Drive. The salon’s flagship Aveda Lifestyle SalonSpa is located in Cahaba Village. 870-4247. tonyajonessalon.com.
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News and Accomplishments Two Maids and a Mop, 16 Office Park Circle, Suite 18, a residential house cleaning company, has announced its 2013 ranking at 1156 on Inc. Magazine’s 500|5000 Fastest Growing Companies list. twomaidsbirmingham. 940-2292.
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At the annual Association of Zoos and Aquariums, Conference last month, the Birmingham Zoo was honored with the National Marketing Excellence Award in front of more than 2,000 peers and colleagues. The Zoo was recognized for its outstanding marketing, advertising and public relations campaign in promotion of the Kiwanis Giraffe Encounter. The Kiwanis Giraffe Encounter opened on April 25, 2012, and is recognized as one of the largest giraffe habitats in the Southeastern United States. birminghamzoo.com. 879-0409.
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Leaf & Petal and Western Supermarkets are among 12 Retailer of the Year honorees who will be recognized Oct. 8 at a Alabama Retail Association luncheon. The level of the individual awards will be announced at the event.
8
Closing Pappagallo closed at the end of September after 40 years in business in the heart of Mountain Brook Village. The store was owned by Banks Robertson.
9
Business news
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Restaurant Showcase
Mexico Lindo Bar & Grill
Read past Restaurant Showcases at villagelivingonline.com
MOUNTAIN BROOK VILLAGE
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A14 • October 2013
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350 Hollywood Boulevard 870-8154 mexicolindobham.com Monday-Thursday, Saturday, 11 a.m.-9:30 p.m. Ca Friday, 11 a.m.-10:30 p.m. ha ba Sunday, 11 a.m.-9 p.m. Rd
By KATIE TURPEN Longtime favorite Mexico Lindo returned home to Hollywood Boulevard in 2011 after a few-year hiatus in Hoover, and it brought a menu with more than fajitas and beef burritos. “We have been at this location for two years now,” said owner Gabriella Gallegos. “The response has been very positive. We have many loyal customers.” Specials include the Enchiladas de Mariscos, an enticing dish of shrimp, scallops, lump crabmeat filling, cream sauce and avocado salad, and the Sopa Costena soup, which is chock-full of fish, shrimp and scallops with a chipotle white wine base. “We have everything from your basic items to things that are a little more different,” Gallegos said. “We have seafood, fajitas and all kinds of things.” Delightfully different combinations include the Grilled Chicken Quesadilla and Mango Salad, which can be filled with crabmeat if desired. Also worth trying is the Camarones al Mojo de Ajo, a dish made up of shrimp with garlic mojo, zucchini corn salsa and rice. Gallegos said customers can expect a slew of new entrees this fall. “We are coming out with a new menu in the next few months,” Gallegos said. “We like to try and experiment with different things.” Mexico Lindo also has a unique selection of burgers and sandwiches, such as the Bama Braspberry burger topped with house chipotle and raspberry barbecue sauce. Weekly specials include steak and fajitas for $8.25 on Mondays, beer for $2.25 on Tuesdays, $3 margaritas on
(above) Mexico Lindo weekly specials include a steak or chicken fajita on Mondays for $8.25 and margaritas on Wednesdays for $3. (left) Mexico Lindo owner Gabriella Gallegos stands with her family in the front room of their restaurant on Hollywood Boulevard, which overlooks U.S. 280.
Wednesdays and $3 sangria on Thursdays. Gallegos and her family have created a pleasant ambiance with an expansive bar, several rooms of colorful décor and a quaint outdoor patio. Gallegos said she enjoys having familiar families regularly stop by to eat. On the restaurant’s far left stands a long bar. Low-hanging mood lighting provides a relaxing atmosphere, and diners can look out over a
green hilltop onto U.S. 280. Gallegos said she was inspired by homes in Mexico for the layout and design of each room in the restaurant. A chandalier made of glass bottles hangs just inside the front doors. Cowhides are draped across each booth. Colorful murals adorn the walls. “It has a very unique design,” Gallegos said. “I decided to use cowhide on the booths. We
went crazy with the contractors.” Cooking has always been a cherished hobby for Gallegos, and although the food business is tough at times, it is rewarding at the end of the day. “It’s very hard work owning a restaurant, but I love it,” Gallegos said. “I’ve always loved cooking, especially for my family and now others.”
Lane Park Rd
VillageLivingOnline.com
October 2013 • A15
Business Spotlight
Read past Business Spotlights at villagelivingonline.com
Stella Blu
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2730 Cahaba Road 870-2006 shopstellablu.com Monday-Friday, 10 a.m.-5:30 p.m. Saturday, 10 a.m.-5 p.m.
By INTISAR SERAAJ-SABREE Sisters Halle Ray and Emily Arnold can easily be mistaken for twins, but they are as different as ying and yang. Ray, who describes herself as laid back, and Arnold, who energizes the room, have had a peas-in-a-pod relationship in fashion since they were young. Growing up in Mountain Brook, the girls sketched figures and created their own fashion designs while on family road trips. Ray remembers when their mother, Tracy, an interior designer who helps them with the boutique, bought them a My Little Pony sewing machine to create their own outfits. “We had fun; we loved it,” Ray said. Ray and Arnold decided to join fashion forces in the South after being separated across the country at the start of their careers. Though both graduated from Auburn University in fashion design, Ray worked in retail management, wholesale and high-end buying in several Southeastern cities while Arnold worked in Los Angeles as a buyer for high-end Hollywood boutiques and as a celebrity stylist. The duo ultimately chose to put all of their experience to the test back in their hometown in 2010. Stella Blu, named after their favorite color and one of Arnold’s favorite girl’s names, blends their Bohemian style with the young and trendy styles their customers want. On the steel-pipe racks, customers find both neutrals and colorful prints. “You could be the girl next door and
(left) Sisters and business partners Emily Arnold and Halle Ray own Stella Blu boutique. (above) Friends Penny Reiff and Natalie Asman avoid the shopping crowd by arriving as soon as the boutique opens its doors.
find something here, or you could be a fashionista,” Arnold said. “You can’t sell exactly everything you wear because you’ll only attract that kind of customer.” The sisters have the customer in mind at all times. When Ray and Arnold buy for the boutique, they look at something and know which customers would love a particular item. Stella Blu carries lines including Rebecca Minkoff, Leyendecker, Tart, Isabel Lu, Blu
Moon, Aaron Ashe, Rory Becca, Amanda Uprichard and Zoa. As their own buyers and bosses, the sisters are not restricted in their interactions with the customers. Ray said Arnold is known for chatting with customers. Ray calls it “Therapy with Emily.” “Our customers are like family; we get to hear about their children’s birthdays, marriages and people going through breakups,” Arnold said. “We want them to feel comfortable, like
they’re walking into our living room.” The girls know how to bring the chic, as well as comfort, in fashion. Ray and Arnold compare the shopping experience at Stella Blu to shopping at a SoHo or L.A. boutique but with Southern hospitality. Grounded in style, these business partners hope to continue the boutique in Mountain Brook, with a possibility of a franchise or additional locations in the future.
Mountain Brook Chamber Luncheon • November 14
Sponsored by
What’s Your Next Move? John McGill, RealtySouth • Dot Mash, LAH Real Estate Wilmer Poynor, Ray & Poynor Properties
Come learn what you need to know about the current real estate market from our panel of experts!
November 14
Doors open at 11, luncheon begins at 11:30 Park Lane in English Village Register at welcometomountainbrook.com or call the Chamber office at 871-3779
A16 • October 2013
Village Living
School House Cherokee Bend welcomes its Chiefs
Brown bagging it By KATHLEEN WOODRY Brookwood Forest Elementary’s Ranger PTO held its first Brown Bag Series event in September. Superintendent Dicky Barlow spoke to the audience about the importance of deeper learning, the mission statement of the Mountain Brook School system, the Alabama College and Career Ready Standards and other topics of interest. The next Brown Bag Series will be held at Brookwood Forest Nov. 6 at 11:30 a.m.
Melinda Curtis with several of her incoming second graders. Front row: Callie Kent, Ava Gillis, John Littleton, Sam Scofield. Back row: Melinda Curtis (teacher), Elizabeth Faulkner, Henry Hufham, Baker Gasque, Drew Bodnar.
By CATHERINE GASQUE Cherokee Bend children from Kindergarten to sixth grade were excited to get back to school to see their friends, meet their teachers and tour their rooms for the new school year. Classrooms were opened for the annual Meet & Greet the Friday before school started. The first day of school started with kindergarteners convening in the school auditorium where
they met with their classmates and teachers and made the big march to their classroom together. Following the send-off, the annual Sip and Sob was hosted at the home of Betsy and Will Byars. In addition, mothers of new students were recognized at Muffins for New Moms. The new families’ were welcomed with balloondecorated mailboxes and school goodies to signify their arrival to Cherokee Bend.
Nathan Pitner, principal of Brookwood Forest Elementary, and Dicky Barlow, superintendent of Mountain Brook Schools.
Welcome, kindergarten By KATHLEEN WOODRY A newcomer’s and kindergarten party was held at Brookwood Forest Elementary in August. This event helps students and parents meet teachers and tour the school. Committee members for the newcomers party were chair Kim Hobbs, Perryn Carroll, Terry Pitman, Betsy Barlow, Bridget Sikora, Melissa Altman, Stephanie Sklar, Leslie Armstrong, Becky Bell and Tiffany LaHood. Committee members the for kindergarten party were chair Adrian Hughes, Perryn Carroll, Paige McCauley, Destin Crosby, Leslie Armstrong, Stephanie Sklar, Betsy Barlow, Emily Miller, Keely Culpepper, Meg Lilly, Amy Sanders, Elizabeth Sims and Sarah Schroer.
Lizzy Mundy and kindergarten teacher Sammye Davis.
VillageLivingOnline.com
October 2013 • A17
New faces at MBE
Front row: Allyson Martin, Libby Kiyak, Byrne Sanders. Back row: Dustin Hastings, Rachel Phillips, Courtney MacCurdy.
By HILARY ROSS Several new faculty members greeted students at the beginning of the school year at Mountain Brook Elementary. Alan Biddle and Laura Barton joined the special education team as assistants, while Mary Coston Colquett and Nicole Webb join the special education staff as transition substitutes. Caitlin Shiflett is a new instructional assistant, and Libby Kiyak joins the Library Media Center as a special assistant. New teachers include Byrne Sanders (preschool), Rachel Phillips (sixth grade language arts), Dustin Hastings (sixth grade science), Ashley Adger (third grade), Allyson Martin (second grade) and Courtney MacCurdy (first grade).
Kids’ (and parents’) night out
Crestline 101 launched
By CATHERINE GASQUE
By LISA STONE
Cherokee Bend Students came to play games and have fun while interacting with their peers at Nerf Night Out in September. This ongoing Cherokee Bend School tradition provides an opportunity for children to have a relaxed time playing games at the school during the weekend. The interaction lends itself to new friendships forged outside the structure of the classroom while allowing parents to enjoy SEC football.
Crestline Elementary School launched its Crestline 101 efforts to answer the question, “What do I wish I had known when we started Crestline?” The committee was created for those new to the school with the intent of helping them navigate the overwhelming challenges of starting a new school from a parent’s perspective. The main goal was to reach out and, with proper knowledge, engage and encourage new parents to feel
Ann Carter Brown, Edward Davis and Clarkie Wilkinson enjoy Nerf Night Out.
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welcome and become involved in the school early into their time at Crestline. The Crestline 101 manual explained everything from how the carpool line works to what big events occur at the school each month. The manual even featured an alphabetical glossary of terms and a map of the school. In September, the school hosted its first Crestline 101 brown bag lunch, which gave new parents an opportunity to ask any questions they had about the school in an informal environment.
Pam Maldia responds to a question from a new CES parents.
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A18 • October 2013
Village Living
Fourth graders celebrate famous Alabamians By CATHERINE BODNAR Cherokee Bend fourth graders participated in Famous Alabamians Program. Each student researched and dressed portraying a famous Alabamian. Ms. Sally Till’s fourth grade class. Front row: Campbell Swing as Jennifer Chandler Jones, Sarah Kate Sanders as Julia Tutwiler, Kate Jeffcoat as Tallulah Bankhead, Molly Russell as Harper Lee, Jake Kuehnertas as George Wallace. Second row: Anna Kate Yeager as Emma Sansom, Teddy Feig as Sam Dale, Anna Lee as Heather Whitestone, Ethan Shunnarah as Paul “Bear” Bryant, James Nichols as Hank Aaron, Devon Sapp as WC Handy. Back row: Chandler Vargas as George Washington Carver, Janie Christian as Hank Williams Sr., Garrett Huddleston as Joe Louis, Olivia Hunt as Rosa Parks, Maggie Reaves as Lurleen Wallace, Hannah Kelley as Willie Mays, Garrett Long as Charles Barkley, John Will Adair as Daniel Pratt.
A new leader
Brookwood Forest recently welcomed a new assistant principal, Christy Christian.
Making friends at CES
CES sixth graders Mason Johnson, Ben Savage, David Stone, Will Baynes, Carter Sobera, Sam Higgins, Crawford Poynor and Tripp Law welcome Will Baynes.
This year, Crestline Elementary School welcomed 20 new students.
Co m In pl iti im al Ex enta am ry
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VillageLivingOnline.com
October 2013 • A19
Get to know
Belinda Treadwell Mountain Brook Elementary Principal How long have you been in education? I graduated from Auburn University in 1973 in secondary education and found out in a hurry that it was not the appropriate setting for me. I went back to school and got my master’s in early childhood education. I spent several years in the Birmingham School District and private schools. After staying home for several years, I worked for my church as the weekday education director and director of preschool and the children’s program while working on my administrative certification. In 1987, I returned to public education. I worked as a classroom teacher, at-risk teacher, and central office administrator until coming to Mountain Brook Elementary as the lead teacher/assistant principal in 1998. I have been the principal at MBE for 11 years. In all my experiences, I consider myself to be a teacher first. I love the opportunity to watch children grow and learn. Tell us a little about your family. My faith and family are most important to me. My husband and I have been married for over 40 years. We have two children, five grandchildren and two dogs. Life is interesting! This year MBE has launched the program “Leader in Me.” Can you tell us a little about the program? We identified this approach as a way for us to grow leadership in all stakeholders. The approach focuses on teaching and modeling
seven leadership habits so we can develop children as leaders. These leadership habits for schools/children are based on the work of Stephen Covey, the author of The Seven Habits of Highly Effective People. What makes this program so unique? Growing student leaders is the heart of this program. In the meantime, we are growing teachers, parents and the community. By teaching and living the habits, we are making a personal commitment to our children and learning culture. During our site visits last year, we saw the impact of this approach on children, school personnel and parents. What do you love most about working in the Mountain Brook schools? There are so many things that I love about this district. I appreciate the commitment to provide the best learning environment for every child in every school. When you read the district’s purpose statement, you have the assurance that we are committed to the purpose each and every day, in everything we do. The emphasis on professional learning was a big reason I wanted to be part of this outstanding district. In your spare time, what do you enjoy doing? I enjoy spending time with my grandchildren. I travel to the beach whenever possible.
New library in the works at MBJH By ELIZABETH FARRAR Ongoing renovations at Mountain Brook Junior High School will include a complete remodel of the school’s library. To maintain the excitement of the students and parents, the administration revealed the new design plans and showcased the schematics, furniture and finishes during registration and throughout September in the school office. The new space will offer a classroom and a mediascape area, utilizing state-of-the-art furniture that works with modern technology. Chairs will be ergonomically designed, and tables will be modular to allow for
configurations to suit each teacher’s needs. The new library will also include separate teacher workspaces and student study areas, as well as a computer and copy area and two student lounge areas. The new space is expected to be open to students by the end of October.
Time to meet and greet
Mason Drew, Katelyn Griffin, Henry Phillips and Jack Lukens, all incoming MBE fifth graders, find their names on the posted lists.
By HILARY ROSS Anticipation for the new school year builds when the annual posting of class lists occurs on the doors of Mountain Brook Elementary School. The time-honored tradition elicits delight from anxious children when they finally find their name on the list and get to see what
homeroom they are assigned. Parents are also emailed a copy of the class list for their children. Students then had the opportunity to visit their classrooms and meet their teachers prior to the start of school easing any first day jitters. Another positive of the Meet and Greet is seeing friends and revisiting favorite former teachers.
A20 • October 2013
Village Living
Parenting and Family with Dr. Dale Wisely
Parenting the teen driver In talks I do for parents, I sometimes show a slide with a photograph of a baby taking her first steps. I talk about what I call “the toddler dilemma.” When our children take big developmental steps, we parents are torn between holding them back versus letting them go. Holding them back may keep them safer, but it prevents them from developing the independent skills they need to thrive. Letting them go may help them develop the independence they need but exposes them to danger. For toddlers, the danger is usually falling down and getting a boo-boo. For teenagers, the risks are much more serious. This is a central, daily dilemma of parenting. Do I hold them back or do I let them go? Move ahead a few years to a teenager holding car keys. If, God forbid, any of us must endure the death of one of our children, the most likely reason will be a motor vehicle accident. Alabama has always been among the top five states for teen driving fatalities, often number two. However, nationwide, the rates of fatal crashes involving teen drivers have actually dropped steadily for many years — since about 1975. This is probably due to a combination of factors. Cars are safer. Traffic control and signage systems have generally improved. Raising awareness about drinking and driving seems to have made a difference. From 2008 until 2010, teen driving fatalities fell particularly sharply. This is believed to be related to the economy. In 2010, teen drivingrelated fatalities, while still the number one killer of teenagers and young adults, were at historic lows.
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Unfortunately, preliminary data suggest teen driving death rates rose sharply between 2010 and 2012. The rebound in these rates might be related to the rebound in the economy. For whatever reasons, we might have reached the end of a long period of declining teen driving fatality rates. And, as we see more drivers texting, talking on their phones and experiencing other distractions, I wonder if it is going to get worse in the years to come. I firmly believe there are measures parents can take to reduce the chances that their children will be involved in automobile accidents. Here are some ideas to consider. Provide the best training possible. Driving is a highly complex, life-or-death task. Parents should maximize the value of the learner’s permit year by providing as much supervised driving practice as possible, under a range of conditions (day and night, good weather and bad weather). Log the number of hours and aim for a minimum of 50 hours of supervised driving time. Develop rules and formalize them in a written contract. We do not know if written parent-teen driving contracts keep teen safer. We do have evidence that when parents have rules about driving and enforce them, their teens are less likely to have driving-related accidents. I have offered a free parent-teen driving contract for many years. It is widely used nationwide and is available at parentingteendrivers.com. Be aware, and make your teenager aware, of the Alabama Graduated Licensing Law. Enhanced in 2010, the law places a curfew on 16-year-old
drivers, limits the number of passengers they may have, and outlaws their use of hand-held communication devices while driving. For my guide to the law, see bit. ly/alabamagraduatedlicenselaw. Be thoughtful about the vehicle your teen drives. In my opinion, a 16-yearold should not have an automobile he or she is allowed to treat as his or her own. A new driver should borrow a family vehicle, perhaps even rotating among different family vehicles, for the first year or so of driving. Only an older teen who has proven his or her commitment to driving safely should be allowed to have a vehicle they treat as their own. Even then, however, parents should focus on the safety of the vehicle, not on its coolness profile. For reasons I do not have the space to go into in this column, I recommend against giving a teenager a vehicle as a birthday or holiday gift. There is much more to say about this than space allows. I offer workshops on this topic for parents a number of times a year and have been doing so in Mountain Brook for about 13 years. You are invited. If you are interested, contact us at studentservices@ mtnbrook.k12.al.us. We all know that life gives few tragedies worse than the death or disabling injury of young people. Too often, these are preventable. We have to keep a clear head and, as parents, remind ourselves of what is at stake. Dale Wisely, Ph.D. is director of student services at Mountain Brook Schools and has been a child and adolescent psychologist for nearly 30 years.
VillageLivingOnline.com
October 2013 • A21
Sports Junior commits to play with Auburn
AJ Peacock
Ansley Joy “AJ” Peacock recently verbally committed to play soccer at Auburn University for the 2015 class and plans to officially sign on with the university in February 2015. A junior at Mountain Brook High School, AJ was a member of the school’s 2013 varsity state champion soccer team and plays on the Birmingham United Soccer Elite Club National travel team. Last year her Elite team played in Colorado, Arizona, New Jersey, Florida, Georgia, North Carolina and Alabama. Outside of playing outside defender for these teams, AJ runs track for MBHS and is actively involved in her youth group at Mountaintop Community Church in Vestavia Hills. AJ is the daughter of David and Jill Peacock, both Auburn graduates. Her younger sister, Bailey, runs cross country for Coach Mike Abercrombie, who ran track at Auburn with dad David.
The Mountain Brook Spartans started the season 0-3 but look to rebound this month. Photo courtesy of Image Arts.
Spartans preparing for Region-heavy schedule this month Thanks to their upcoming slate of Region games in October, the Mountain Brook High Spartans were still in the playoff hunt in the middle of last month. Heading into their matchup with Woodlawn, the 0-3 Spartans had fallen in three back-to-back nail biters. The Spartans opened their 2013 season with one of the biggest games in the state, as No. 6 Mountain Brook faced off against the No. 7 Tuscaloosa County Wildcats. Three turnovers were too much for Mountain Brook to overcome, as the Spartans came up short by a score of 13-6.
The next week, MBHS faced Shades Mountain in an offensive shootout where the Spartans’ record fell to a deceptive 0-2 after a 48-28 loss. In its third game of the season, MBHS took on Region-leading Gardendale. The Spartans’ valiant, last-minute drive fell short with a goal-line turnover, allowing the Gardendale Rockets to squeak by with a 14-9 victory. At that point, the Spartans’ nine points were the only points scored against the Rockets this season. After its game against Woodlawn, which was ranked last in the region as of mid-Sep-
tember, MBHS has four remaining Region games on the schedule with Carver, HewittTrussville, Vestavia Hills and Huffman.
Remaining schedule All games at 7 p.m.
Sept. 27: Buckhorn Oct. 4: Carver (Birmingham) Oct. 11: at Hewitt-Trussville Oct. 18: Huffman Oct. 25: Vestavia Hills Nov. 1: Parker
A22 • October 2013
Village Living
PIG
Sound off
from pg A1
Residents react to news that Crestline Piggly Wiggly will close Comments from villagelivingonline.com and Village Living’s Facebook.com page
My children are in their 40s and 50s, and they knew [Piggly Wiggly employee] Aurelia when they were babies. She still knows them and my grandchildren as well. There is not a nicer person in the world than Matt Maxwell. How can this happen? I will be a part of anything we can do to save the Pig. -Barbara Thornton A wise friend suggested that we all start calling corporate headquarters for CVS and Walgreens and letting them know of the ill will they are engendering in the community. I took her advice and had a lengthy conversation with CVS. They seemed to be listening. I will be speaking with them again next week. I intend to do the same with Walgreens. Come on, Mountain Brook, keep trying. This is our way of life. This is our village. Pick up the phone and start talking. -Betty Meadows People of Mountain Brook/Crestline: If there were an alternative grocery store that opened in the same area that employed former employees of the Pig, would you support it? Would you shop there to preserve our community? For example, a Trader Joe’s in the same general area — would you keep the doors open? I’d love to hear your input! -Tiffany Lewis Unbelievable! Everyone seems to be leaving Mountain Brook or being forced out. Maybe it’s time we all left, too. The Mountain Brook City Council seems to have done very little to help in this situation. Even though we rarely shop there, they are a fixture, and if another grocery
Everyone bring a chair, sit and wait until the real truth is told. If it’s about money, we as a community could pay like a Sam’s card. We could surround the whole building, bring dinner or order pizza. Just a thought. Maybe right after church? Just throwing something out there. -Katrina DeMedicis The Pig and the Virciglio family have been at the heart of the friendliness and joy of living in Crestline. There is no other store that will be appreciated or welcomed in its place. I am truly saddened and disappointed to learn that the property owners were so uncooperative. Mountain Brook will suffer loss in tax revenue and in the loss of a store and its employees that are dearly loved. This is a big mistake! -Gail Moebes I will miss my friends at the Pig and their smiling faces. -Shaun Flynn I am so deeply saddened to learn that the Pig will be leaving Crestline. It is hard to believe that something could not have been worked out. I cannot imagine Crestline without the Pig. -Susie Henry It sounds like it’s going to be another win for the powerful big pharma/prescription pill pushers. So Crestline will now have three drug stores and no grocery stores. Pathetic! -Dotty Still Carley
represented a national pharmacy corporation like CVS or Walgreens. Gaston also said that the City’s records show that chains like CVS create about one-fifth the amount of sales tax revenue as the Crestline Piggly Wiggly. Representatives from CVS did not return a request to comment for this story by deadline, but store employees told Village Living in June that the company renewed its lease on the Crestline location in 2013. Virciglio stated he did not know who would occupy the space following Piggly Wiggly’s departure. “For 30 years, the Crestline Piggly Wiggly has been a consistent supporter of communitybased fundraisers and activities,” Virciglio stated. “We will miss that in Crestline, but our Homewood and River Run stores will maintain that Piggly Wiggly community involvement. And, especially we appreciate the outpouring of love and support this community has provided the store, each and every day.” Until its doors shut, Crestline Pig supporters like Norris are continuing to pour out the sentiments that Virciglio recognized. “We’ll miss everyone so much,” Norris said. “I think that this is just a shame that this is happening.”
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Elizabeth Pickett has shopped at Crestline Piggly Wiggly for more than 20 years. Photo by Intisar Seraaj Sabree.
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store doesn’t go in, then our city council has totally failed us. -Gail Clark
He’s been the produce manager at the store for two years, but because he is one of the newest employees at the store, he expects to be laid off — just like he was at Bruno’s, where he worked for 38 years. “When chains go under, they get tougher on the little guys, but that’s business,” Cooper said. “It’s depressing, but there’s nothing that we can do about it. It’s out of our hands. There’s a possibility that things may change, and we hope that they do.” Store manager Frank Campbell said Piggly Wiggly is working to try to place the Crestline employees with jobs in other locations before the store closes. Lease negotiations for the space of the Crestline store ended in September when Andy Virciglio, co-owner of Piggly Wiggly Food Stores of Jefferson County Inc., announced that the store would be required to vacate the premises by the end of November to make way for a new tenant. “We did our best to make this work,” Virciglio said in a statement. “We tried and tried to work out our lease agreement. We agreed to the landlord’s fair market rent increases. We have been good tenants in the space for 30 years, but the landlord chose to go another route with another tenant, and unfortunately we cannot do anything about that.” The news was released two days after a community-organized effort named “Save the Crestline Pig” reported a rumor that the store would close by Sept. 30. The organization, represented by a Facebook page with more than 5,000 “likes,” first sprung up in June and has since been active in providing the community with a place to voice its opinions during lease negotiations. Much of the information released during negotiations was classified as rumor. Mountain Brook City Manager Sam Gaston told Village Living that a company out of Auburn talked with City Planner Dana Hazen earlier this year about adding a drive-through window to the existing Piggly Wiggly location. The company’s name was never confirmed. Other reports arose that the visiting company
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October 2013 • A23
Useful Information
Mid-Am from pg A1
2013 U.S. Mid-Amateur Championship
Country Club of Birmingham, a course familiar to Bo. In fact, he was there the day before the qualifier – when he won the Club championship, the Harris Cup. “I think it’s fair to say I have an advantage,” Bo said just days before the start of the Mid-Am. “It’s not huge, but there probably isn’t going to be a shot I haven’t had or a pin I haven’t seen. I definitely plan to draw from my experience.” Bo started playing the two courses – East and West – at The Country Club of Birmingham at 6 years old. At 12, he won the Club’s youth championship competing against players in high school. Combined, he said he’s played the courses more than 1,000 times. “In the summer, I would spend from 6 a.m. to 6 p.m. out there every day playing multiple rounds,” he said. “No matter where the USGA puts a tee, I know what to hit and where to play.” The Mid-Am was founded in 1981 because young golfers were starting to dominate amateur tournaments. Golfers in college were able to practice more and were likely headed to the professional level, giving them a significant advantage over older contestants. Bo is a full-time employee with Stern Agee and only recently got back into the game of golf. He had the opportunity to play in college but chose to focus his time on other pursuits. It’s only been in the past few years, since he became a member at The Country Club of Birmingham, that he decided to compete more consistently. “I’ve really seen his game improve the last three years,” said Bo’s father, Sam Farlow. “He’s really come to appreciate what golf’s all about, to learn to take each shot one at a time and not let frustration get the best of him.” Sam is looking forward to watching his son compete on his home course. The winner of the Mid-Am earns a spot in the Masters Tournament, but Sam said he hopes Bo chooses to focus on how special it is to play in this event. “I really have no idea of whether [Bo] will do well the week of the Mid-Am,” Sam said. “But even if he doesn’t play well, I hope he fully embraces what it means to be there. Something like 5,200 golfers tried out, and a few more than 200 got in. He’s one of the fortunate few who gets to play. I’m so proud of him, and I know he’ll have wonderful experience.”
Championship Schedule Medal Play (264 Players – East & West Courses) Sunday, Oct. 6 Medal Play – Second Day Monday, Oct. 7 Match Play Begins (64 Players – West Course) Tuesday, Oct. 8 Match Play (32 Players - West Course) Wednesday, Oct. 9 Match Play Quarterfinals & Semifinals Thursday, Oct. 10 Match Play Finals & Awards Ceremony Saturday, Oct. 5
Spectator Parking & Shuttles Spectator parking lots are located at the Birmingham Zoo and at the Junior League Headquarters in English Village. Shuttles will run between spectator lots and the Club Oct. 3-10 from 6 a.m.-6 p.m.
Spectator Admission The Championship is open to the public, and there is no admission charge.
General Information ›› The Club dining rooms will not be open to spectators. However, there will be cash service on the East Course Snack Stand, and there will be cash and credit card service on the West Course Snack Stand. Food and beverage service will
Coming Soon!
Church Street at Euclid Avenue Crestline Village John Bromberg
205-870-4367
William Bromberg
also be available on the Pool Deck. ›› Championship merchandise will be available for purchase in the Golf Pro Shop through cash or credit card service. ›› Spectator photography during Championship play is not allowed. ›› You may follow live event coverage at usga.org. ›› Spectators are permitted to carry mobile devices (i.e., cell phones, smartphones, PDAs, tablets) at the Championship and use them for limited purposes on Championship grounds, subject to the following restrictions:
All device volume controls must be set to “silent” or “vibrate” at all times.
Phone calls cannot be received or placed in any area that may disrupt play. Photographs may ONLY be taken during practice rounds (Thursday and Friday). Video and audio recording are not permitted at any time during the Championship week. Texting, email and the use of mobile applications are permissible throughout all areas of the golf course but must NOT disrupt players. (Violation of the above policy may result in immediate expulsion and loss of ticket privileges for the remainder of the Championship.)
A24 • October 2013
Village Living
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SECTION
B
October 2013 • A25 Community B2 Faith B12 Calendar B13
Mountain Brook to partner with community for Red Ribbon Week By KATIE TURPEN Mountain Brook will join schools across the country to celebrate National Red Ribbon Week during the week of Oct. 23-31. “We have a long tradition of observing Red Ribbon Week,” said Dale Wisely, director of student services and community education at Mountain Brook City Schools. “We often refer to it as Alcohol and Drug Awareness Week to put even more emphasis on what it is really about for us.” The National Family Partnership established the campaign in 1985 in order to spread awareness of the dangers of teen drug use. An Ohio seventh grader developed the logo for this year’s national campaign theme: “A Healthy Me is Drug Free.” Due to scheduling issues, Mountain Brook City Schools plans to observe the campaign during the week of Oct. 14. Wisely said programs throughout the school district will be tailored to age and grade level, with the younger students learning about general health issues and the older students learning about dangerous effects of drug abuse. “Red Ribbon Week tends to be a bit more festive at the elementary level, and our drug education efforts
Cherokee Bend students Ellie Kate Berte, Nelson Crawford, Jake Thompson and Richard Brock welcome Bobby Humphrey, a former All-American player for the University of Alabama, Denver Broncos and Miami Dolphins, as special guest to kick off Red Ribbon Week last year.
there are often about health and healthy choices,” Wisely said. “Older students get more specific content about the problems associated with the use and abuse of different substances.”
Wisely said the school district believes drug awareness should not be contained to one week and a main goal is to incorporate drug education into the classroom throughout the year.
SPECIAL PROMOTION
“While we do want to observe the week with a special concentration of substance abuse prevention, we think it is important not to fall into the habit of concentrating all our work in this area into a single week,” Wisely
said. “We do various educational and awareness programs related to substance abuse all year long.” Classroom education is valuable, but a community support system is vital for students and their education. Wisely believes drug awareness programs should extend outside the classroom in order to be effective and prevent tragedy. “There is evidence that the best shot a community has at stemming substance among youth is by maintaining a steady, persistent and community-wide effort,” Wisely said. “School-based programs probably are not enough.” Accordingly, the Mountain Brook Anti-Drug Coalition was formed to advise parents on how to best educate their children on the dangers of drug use. The coalition has several community programs such as Safe Homes, a pledge made by community parents to not permit underage drinking or drug use in their homes. “We have had an active anti-drug coalition for many years,” Wisely said. “The work of the Mountain Brook Anti-Drug Coalition has tended to be focused on schools, but over the years we have supported and encouraged programs in local
See Red Ribbon | page B11
B2 • October 2013 A26
Village Living
Community Hobbs achieves Eagle David Whitehead “Whit” Hobbs Jr. earned the rank of Eagle Scout in March. He is a member of Boy Scout Troop 63 at Canterbury United Methodist Church, under the leadership of Harold Wells Jr. For his Eagle project, Whit built a hands-on mission workroom for the Outreach Program at Canterbury United Methodist Church. The room included nine shelving units accompanied with six stainless steel tables. The new workroom provides storage and work space for the outreach ministry. Whit has held the positions of patrol leader, historian and dugler. He was elected to the Order Arrow Brotherhood, earned 32 merit badges, attended a high adventure trip to Sea Base in the Florida Keys, and earned the Polar Bear Award. He is a senior at Woodberry Forest School in Woodberry Forest, Va., and is a tri-varsity athlete for football, squash and lacrosse. He was elected to the Prefect (Honor) Board and Leadership Committee for Woodberry’s 115th varsity football team. Whit is also a staff writer for The Oracle, the Woodberry Forest newspaper; co-head ropes course instructor; and co-head tour guide. He has been involved in the Woodberry Forest Mentor Program, Woodberry Christian Fellowship and Woodberry Forest Pipes Program. Whit is the son of Meme and David Hobbs. He is the grandson of Mary Gene and Thomas Boulware of Mountain Brook, and the grandson of Elizabeth and Worth Hobbs of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania.
State Rep. Paul DeMarco and Library Director Sue DeBrecht will hold a Brown Bag Lunch program titled Preparing for an Emergency.
Whit Hobbs
Fall festival roundup Mountain Brook churches are celebrating autumn with festivals and activities for the young and the young at heart. Mark your calendars and bring your family to some of these events: Sunday, Oct. 20 Brookwood Baptist Church will hold a Fall Festival from 3:30-6 p.m. in its back parking lot. There will be trunk-or-treating, inflatables and food. Sunday, Oct. 27 Mountain Brook Baptist Church will hold its Fall Family Festival from 4-6 p.m. There will be
Library to hold program on emergency preparation
inflatables, games, booths, face painting, a cake walk, hayrides and music by the Hoover High School Jazz Band. In case of rain, activities will be held in the gym. Wednesday, Oct. 30 St. Luke’s Episcopal Church is hosting a Trunkor-Treat event. The church encourages community members to come in costume and trick-or-treat from car to car in the St. Luke’s parking lot. Face painting starts at 5 p.m., dinner at 5:30 p.m. and trunk-ortreating at 6 p.m. Games and activities will continue inside the church from 6:30-7 p.m. Participants will also be able to vote for their favorite trunk.
Is your household prepared for a house fire or natural disaster? A new event will equip you to have a plan before an emergency happens. On Oct. 9, the Emmet O’Neal Library will host a brown bag lunch program, Preparing for an Emergency. Art Faulkner, director of the Alabama Emergency Management Agency, and Spencer Collier, former Homeland Security director and current secretary of law enforcement, will speak at the program. “Attendees of this seminar will be given advice on how make an emergency game plan and prepare your emergency kit of essentials,” said Representative Paul DeMarco, one of the organizers of this event.
Studies have shown that families who create a disaster plan and maintain an emergency fund are more likely to successfully navigate a disaster and to recover more quickly. “We’ve seen time and again the impact that disasters and emergencies have on our families and friends, as well as our community,” said Sue DeBrecht, director of the Emmet O’Neal Library. “That is why we felt like it was important to hold this event.” The doors open at noon, and the program begins at 12:30 p.m. Bring a sack lunch, and drinks and dessert will be provided. For more, contact Katie Moellering at 445-1118 or kmoellering@bham.lib.al.us. -Submitted by Holly Lollar
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Pumpkin Patch returns On Sept. 28, the Early Learning Center at Mountain Brook Baptist will open its eighth annual Pumpkin Patch. The patch is filled with a variety of shapes and colors from a local grower, and many size options are available – from mini pumpkins to huge “doorstep” pumpkins. Each year, parent volunteers of the Early Learning Center unload and organize the patch, sell pumpkins and cleanup – all to raise funds for the center. The patch is located in a small field adjacent to the school parking lot at 3631 Montevallo Road. Hours will be MondaySaturday 9 a.m.-5 p.m. and Sundays 11 a.m.-5 p.m., with the exception of Oct. 13 and 14 when it will be open 11 a.m.-7:30 p.m. and the final day, Oct. 28, when hours will be 9-11 a.m. For the latest updates on pumpkin arrival as well as holiday ideas and recipes, find MBBC Pumpkin Patch on Facebook.
‘Everything’s for sale’ at Antiques at The Gardens
Mountain Brook Baptist Church will once again welcome pumpkin hunters to find varieties of all shapes and sizes at its annual sale to benefit the church’s Early Learning Center.
LJCC to host annual Jewish Food Festival this month The Levite Jewish Community Center will host its 11th annual Jewish Food Festival on Sunday, Oct. 27. The event will feature traditional Jewish food, such as brisket, kugel, matzah ball soup, stuffed cabbage rolls, corned beef sandwiches, falafel pita pockets, black and white cookies, Israeli salad, smoked whitefish and Israeli couscous. Community tables will be set up for dining inside. Take-out will also be available. The LJCC Bake Sale tradition will also continue, and the N.E. Miles Jewish Day School will hold its Go Green! Family Fair for children. The fair will include crafts and family activities. The festival runs from 11 a.m.-2 p.m. and is open to the community. For more information, visit bhamjcc.org.
Community members try different foods served at last year’s Jewish Food Festival.
The eighth annual Antiques at The Gardens – and second showing of the popular Tastemakers – is scheduled for Oct. 3-6. The event is sponsored by IBERIABANK, and since 2006 has raised more than $2 million for The Gardens’ educational programs. Following last year’s success of introducing visitors to “Tastemakers,” Birmingham Botanical Gardens’ show is refining and advancing the concept. According to event chair Tricia Holbrook, this year’s Antiques at The Gardens will feature more than a dozen themed spaces that have been designed through collaboration between antiques dealers and local architects and designers. Montgomery architect Bobby McAlpine is anchoring the slate of participating
Tastemakers. And he’s pairing up with North Carolina’s Cindy Smith, owner of Circa Interiors and Antiques. For the 2013 Antiques at The Gardens, the pair will design and present a space with the theme “Welcome Home.” Also pairing up are Birmingham’s Paul Bates and Jeremy Corkern of Bates Corken Studio with Betsy Brown, owner of Betsy Brown Interiors in Mountain Brook Village. In all, 14 themed areas with goods selected from Birmingham and other regions of the country will be on display for the event, and everything will be for sale. Tickets can be purchased at bbgardens.org/ antiques or by calling 414-3950. For more, contact Shelly McCarty at 414-3965, email smccarty@bbgardens.org or visit bbgardens. org/antiques.
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Village Living
Crestline rocked Church Street turned into a concert venue for local bands and Big Head Todd on Sept. 7 as a part of Crestline Rocks, benefiting Preschool Partners.
Lella Carl, executive director of Preschool Partners, right, took in the event with her husband, Lester.
Bands affiliated with Mason Music opened for Big Head Todd.
Area residents set up chairs and pulled out their cameras during the performances on Church Street.
Leslie, Corinne, Lizzy and Oliver Thomas eat dinner at Taco Mama during the event.
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Elizabeth Brownberry, Bradshaw Ratcliffe and Carlee Stewart sport Crestline Rocks T-shirts. Photos by Madoline Markham.
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B5 October 2013 • A29
Charity card offers 20 percent off purchases from Mountain Brook retailers
Residents of Mountain Brook, Homewood and Vestavia Hills joined with emergency service personnel and city administrations to dedicate the World Trade Center Memorial at the Mountain Brook City Complex on Sept. 11, 2013. Photo by Jeff Thompson.
Patriot Day ceremony focuses on importance of remembering By JEFF THOMPSON Twelve years after the Sept. 11, 2001 terrorist attacks on the World Trade Center, reminders stand across the country. These symbols proudly exist for a purpose, Mountain Brook Fire Chief Robert Ezekiel said. “They serve to preserve remembrance.” Sept. 11, Vestavia Hills and Homewood joined with the City of Mountain Brook in dedicating beam from the World Trade Center. Erected outside the Mountain Brook Municipal Complex, the steel stands in the shape of the Twin Towers to solidify the memory of that tragedy and the thousands who lost their lives as a result. “Today to me is very personal and personal to those in fire service throughout the country,” Ezekiel said in dedicating the beam. Allan Rice, executive director of the Alabama Fire College (AFC), served as keynote speaker for the event. Rice’s message to the hundreds of residents,
administrators and law enforcement personnel in attendance was that it’s the duty of each American to not let these reminders become relics and to remember their purpose. He said the memorial at the AFC also includes steel salvaged from the Trade Center as well as 343 crosses representing the firefighters who gave their lives in service. “These are not gimmicks,” Rice said. “They’re guideposts of remembrance, reminders of freedom. These symbols are significant because they symbolize national strength.” The program featured the laying of wreaths around the memorial and a bell was rung in remembrance. Abrielle Mullins, a rising country singer and daughter of Mountain Brook EMS Division Director Chris Mullins, sang the national anthem, and Staff Sgt. Jacqueline Barnwell sang “America the Beautiful” and “Amazing Grace.” “This is a day to remember,” Vestavia Hills Mayor Butch Zaragoza said. “We will never forget this day.”
The Junior League of Birmingham, local retailers and restaurants are partnering to bring back the Shop Save & Share charity shopping event. Cardholders can receive a 20 percent discount at more than 500 retailers and restaurants throughout the Birmingham area. Participating Mountain Brook merchants include: A Tiny Kingdom, A’Mano, Another Broken Egg, Antiquities, Avo, BartonClay Fine Jewelers, Beverly Ruff Antiques and Linens, Bromberg’s, The Buckhead Interiors, Charlotte Woodson Antiques, Christine’s, Circa Interiors and Antiques, The Cook Store, The Dande’Lion, Dram, ETC, jojo Home at Marjorie Johnston & Co., Leaf & Petal at the Botanical Gardens, The Lingerie Shoppe, Little Hardware, Inc., Longworth Collectio, M. Lavender clothing, Marella, Marguerite’s Conceits, Mommy and Me Time Fitness, Mountain Brook Creamery, Mulberry Heights Antiques, Olexa’s Café, Over Easy,
Ruby Ansley Interiors, Inc., Sew Sheri Designs, Smith’s Variety, Stella Blu, Suite Dreams, Table Matters, Tracery, Trocadero, Village Dermatology, Village Firefly, Village Framers & The Atchison Gallery, Village Press, Village Sportswear, Western Supermarket/Wine Market and Zaru Salon. The $40 purchase of a Shop Save & Share card is a donation to the Junior League of Birmingham that offers card holders savings from Oct. 23-Nov.3. Funds raised support the JLB’s community projects that address some of Birmingham’s most critical issues, including literacy, domestic violence prevention, health education, and life skills for families in transition. Visit jlbonline.com or shopsaveshare.net to purchase your Shop Save & Share card and to review a complete listing of participating merchants and sponsors. -Submitted by Junior League of Birmingham
Harris awarded for volunteer efforts Mountain Brook resident Austin Harris was recently awarded the Silver Presidential Volunteer Service Award for his volunteer efforts this summer, totalling more than 200 hours of community service. In addition to the award, 16-year-old Harris received a letter and certificate from President Barack Obama. He volunteered for 167 hours at the Shades Valley Family Branch of the Birmingham YMCA.
In New Orleans, he earned 40 volunteer hours by repairing homes damaged by Hurricane Katrina with the Canterbury United Methodist Church youth group. Harris is a junior at Riverside Military Academy in Gainesville, Ga., where he is a squad leader and a member of the varsity basketball squad. He is the son of Dr. and Mrs. Tyra Harris.
B6 • October 2013 A30
Village Living
Salter awarded Life Inspiration Award
Take us with you.
Dr. Susan Salter was awarded the Life Saver Award by the American Cancer Society at the 2013 Life Inspiration Awards held this summer at The Club. The Life Inspiration Awards began in 1997 for the purpose of recognizing special efforts of those fighting cancer and the special caregivers who help those with a cancer diagnosis. Cancer survivors, caregivers, and medical professionals in North Central Alabama, who have made their lives a source of inspiration to others dealing with cancer, were honored at the event. One caregiver was awarded this special recognition for extraordinary service. Salter, a Mountain Brook resident and radiation oncologist at St. Vincent’s Bruno Cancer Center, was nominated by her staff, peers and patients. The nominations
stated she is compassionate, caring, and motivates and inspires others through her actions. One patient of Dr. Salter’s stated, “she is an excellent caregiver, always recognizing the patient’s feelings.” Salter has strong ties in the Birmingham medical community. Both her mother and father are retired physicians. Her brother and sister are surgeons. She said she was not pressured to attend medical school but that it was a natural fit for her. “I really enjoy the daily interaction with my patients,” Salter said. “I am very involved in all aspects of their care and try to provide the best treatment options available.” Salter is married to Steven Hydinger and has two children.
Local cadet graduates from West Point
Award-winning community journalism on your mobile phone. VillageLivingOnline.com William Tucker
Cadet William Cox Tucker III, son of Col. (Ret.) and Mrs. William Tucker of Mountain Brook, graduated from the U.S. Military Academy in May Tucker is a 2009 Mountain Brook High School graduate. While at West Point, he concentrated his studies in human geography with honors and French. He was commissioned as a second lieutenant in the U.S. Army within the Army Aviation branch and will report to Fort Rucker for his first assignment. The U.S. Military Academy is a four-year coeducational federal undergraduate liberal arts college located 50 miles north of New York City.
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802-TINY(8469) • Monday - Friday 10-5 • Saturday 10-2 www.atinykingdom.com
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Return of the Mystics Annual parade welcomes all in costume
Beads, T-shirts, stuffed animals and footballs will fly through the air as the annual Mystics of Mountain Brook parade processes through Crestline Village on Halloween starting at 4 p.m. “We started nine years ago with our Halloween parade,” said Casey Wright Horn, a Mobile native who started the parade with her brother, Trent. “We both missed Mardi Gras badly and thought this was a great way to bring a little Mardi Gras to Mountain Brook.” The event, which began with one car driving down Dexter Avenue, now features more than 23 floats, cheerleaders, MBJH Spartanettes, Mayor Terry Oden in his antique fire truck and more. The current parade route descends down Dan Watkins Drive in front of the library and Tot Lot, and then down Church Street. After taking a right on Euclid Avenue and a right on Vine Street, the parade ends on Vine Street near Crestline Elementary. The parade usually lasts about 45 minutes. The money raised after expenses are covered has gone to various needs in the city, as determined by parade participants.
Children and adults alike congregated in Crestline Village last year for the annual Mystics of Mountain Brook Parade. Photos by Ivey Jackson.
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B8 • October 2013 A32
Ben Jackson earns Eagle Scout rank Ben Jackson, a member of Boy Scout Troop 320, earned his Eagle Rank in February and was presented his Eagle Scout badge at a Court of Honor Ceremony in June. For his Eagle Scout Leadership Project, Ben created a lending library for the Avondale United Methodist Church Ben Jackson branch of the Start The Adventure In Reading (STAIR) program. He led others in creating a special room. His team cleaned up and painted the room, assembled six bookshelves, and provided more than 200 donated books and puzzles. This enabled second graders to enjoy improving their reading skills and have the ability to take home books. Ben then donated more than $1,100 to STAIR to further their mission. Ben has been involved with scouting since first grade, starting with Cub Scouts at Pack 63 at Canterbury United Methodist Church. He earned the Cub Scouts highest award, Arrow of Light, on his crossover to Troop 320 at Mountain Brook Presbyterian Church. While at Troop 320, he earned 28 merit badges and the Bronze Palm, and he served as assistant senior patrol leader, quartermaster and other positions. In his scouting career, he sold more than $17,000 in popcorn to raise close to $12,000 in funds for the troop, the Vulcan District and the Greater Alabama Council. Ben is a senior at Mountain Brook High School. He is involved in Youth Government, Debate and the Interact Club, and he is a member of the Mountain Brook Baptist Church Youth Choir. He is the son of Susan and Ben Jackson. He is the grandson of Marian and Bill Lindley of Decatur and Ivey Jackson of Mountain Brook.
Village Living
St. Luke’s home to new labyrinth
Saint Luke’s Episcopal Church Parrish Secretary Nancy Cain at the church’s labyrinth. Photo by Jeff Thompson.
By STEVE DEGWECK Just east of our church building, adjacent to the newly planted park and meadow, sits the Martin and Carolyn Tilson Memorial Garden, dedicated to the memory of St. Luke’s fourth rector and his wife. In the midst of the Tilson Garden is a series of interwoven paths, marked off by stones set in the ground, called a labyrinth. This ancient spiritual tool, common to many religious traditions, has enjoyed a renaissance of sorts in recent years. The oldest labyrinths, found mostly in Europe, are nearly 4,000 years old and were used for prayer, meditation and spiritual reflection. During the Middle Ages when warfare made pilgrimages to Jerusalem and other holy sites too dangerous for ordinary Christians, many turned to labyrinth-walking as a tangible substitute for actual pilgrimages. Labyrinths come in a wide variety of shapes,
sizes and designs. Probably the most famous labyrinth is located at Chartres Cathedral in France, created in the 13th century. Thought by some to resemble a maze, there is actually quite an important distinction between the two. A maze is designed to be a puzzle, with an array of turns, choices and dead-ends. In contrast, a labyrinth has only one path, leading the pilgrim through the winding paths to the very center of the labyrinth and back again. A typical use of the labyrinth involves quieting our minds and hearts and focusing prayerfully on the love and grace of God for us. Perhaps we will pause at points along the way to reflect upon crucial or meaningful moments in our spiritual lives and stay on the path until we reach the center. There, persons often remain for a short time to offer their thoughts, prayers and concerns to God and give thanks for his presence in their lives. Returning again to the point where one entered, the path becomes a time to draw
strength from the experience and a time to reflect on where we are in our spiritual journey. Every person’s experience of the labyrinth is unique. Some come for prayer, others for reflection, and still others for healing. Although deeply rooted in the Christian tradition of prayer and meditation, the labyrinth is used by persons of all faiths and indeed pre-dates the founding of the Christian faith. Even those from no particular religious persuasion can, and do, benefit from its use. The St. Luke’s labyrinth is open to all people every day of the year from dawn to dusk. There is no cost, and no reservation is needed. Small children should be supervised, and we ask that no food be brought into the garden, though you are welcome to picnic in the meadow adjacent to the garden. We invite all interested to come and participate. If you would like more information, contact the Rev. Steve DeGweck at 802-6203 or Mary Ellen Calhoun at 960-1244.
Oct. 23 Nov. 3 THROUGH
SAVE 20% ON PURCHASES AT MORE THAN 500 BIRMINGHAM RETAILERS
All proceeds benefit the mission and projects of the Junior League of Birmingham.
Purchase your card for $40 to help improve the lives of women and children across Birmingham. Buy now at ShopSaveShare.net. Scan the code (right) for a complete listing of participating retailers.
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B9 October 2013 • A33
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For the love of monarchs Fall Plant Sale at Gardens to promote butterfly-friendly plants
By KATIE TURPEN Fred Spicer fondly remembers beautiful orange and black butterflies fluttering around his garden. The days when he would see them have long gone, and he worries about the disappearance of the most studied butterfly in the world. “These are amazing tiny, little animals. They fly from the Gulf of Mexico all the way to Canada every year,” said Spicer, executive director of Birmingham Botanical Gardens. “Populations are crashing. It’s a concern.” Birmingham Botanical Gardens is offering a way for local residents to ensure that these monarch butterflies, whose population has decreased by more than 80 percent in the last year, do not completely disappear. Local plant lovers are invited to help this endangered species by buying butterfly-friendly plants at the two-day Birmingham Botanical Gardens Fall Plant Sale at Blount Plaza. “I always stress to people it’s important to identify what’s eating their plants,” Spicer said. This year, the Native Plant Group, one of the Gardens’ many volunteer groups involved in the sale, took a unique approach to nurturing plants that attract the monarch butterfly. During the summer months, the group nurtured 400 milkweed plants, which are what monarch larvae eat to survive, and sold many in a two-day presale. The remaining selection will be
Birmingham Botanical Gardens Fall Plant Sale Saturday, Oct. 19, 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Sunday, Oct. 20, noon-4 p.m. Blount Plaza, Birmingham Botanical Gardens bbgardens.org/fall-plant-sale.php
Plant lovers stroll through the offerings at the annual Birmingham Botanical Gardens Plant Sale at Blount Plaza.
available at this year’s sale along with various herbs, trees, shrubs, flowers and vegetables, all selected to thrive in Birmingham’s climate and conditions. Spicer describes a relaxed atmosphere where knowledgeable plant sellers share advice and friendly conversation.
“You’ll find good people here,” Spicer said. “Whatever plant or herb they’re selling, they’ve grown it. They know all about it.” The Spring and Fall Plant Sales are the two largest fundraisers for Birmingham Botanical Gardens. The Native Plant Group meets weekly to
produce the native plants sold at the events, and proceeds go to support the Gardens’ educational programs that foster an appreciation of plants and the environment. This year, the focus is on the butterfly. Spicer sees that attracting butterflies to gardens offers more than
just an enchanting sight. Butterflies are pollinators that can help with fertilization and, eventually, seed production. “Buying plants that are butterfly friendly will put food on your table,” Spicer said. “It will make your garden more successful.”
B10 • October 2013 A34
Village Living
Opening day Mountain Brook celebrates its new Municipal Complex The community came out in August for a grand opening ceremony and tours of the City’s new municipal complex. Members of the Mountain Brook City Council, Mayor Terry Oden and City Manager Sam Gaston were on hand alongside members of Mountain Brook’s police and fire departments. Spartan Square was dedicated to kick off the event. Located in Crestline Village, the Complex is now home to the Mountain Brook Fire Department, Police Department, City Council, Chamber of Commerce and Courthouse.
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RED RIBBON from pg B1
worship communities.” Lindsey Sink, co-chair of the Mountain Brook Drug Coalition, said the coalition will be holding a community public forum called Hitting Home, a platform for both older and younger parents to discuss what they can do to better address the drug problem in Mountain Brook. “My husband and I really get a lot from it because we didn’t have this kind of education growing up,” Sink said. “All the data and statistics really did hit home for us.” Local government and law enforcement are making a concerted effort to partner with the schools on drug awareness education for the upcoming school year. Sink said the Mountain Brooke Fire Department is preparing a program for the students on drinking and driving. “The Mountain Brook Chamber of Commerce is taking more of a role,” Wisely said. “We had a meeting this summer with our fire department and police department, all of whom have and will continue to support the community’s efforts in this area.” For more information on National Red Ribbon Week visit redribbon.org. For more information on the Mountain Brook Anti Drug Coalition, visit sites.google.com/site/ coalition1site/.
B11 October 2013 • A35
Out of the dark
Resident leads local walk for suicide prevention
(left) During the Out of the Darkness Walk, each pair of shoes represents one person lost to suicide in Alabama. (Above) Area residents come together for the sixth largest AFSP walk in the country.
By INTISAR SERAAJ-SABREE In August 2005 Marissa Grayson lost her father to suicide. Eight years later, she participates in an annual ritual she finds “eerily comforting” — The American Foundation for Suicide Prevention (AFSP) Out of the Darkness Walk. “It was difficult to be a part of because it reminded me of my father, but it was comforting to be around so many people that understood what I was going through,” said Grayson, a Mountain Brook resident and political science professor at Samford University. Grayson has been a part of the walk since 2008 and this
year is serving as its chair. The event allows her to honor her father, she said, and to comfort others so that they avoid the same emotional roller coaster. The 3- to 5-mile walk features a survivor area where people can bring mementos of their lost one(s) and/or speak with a therapist. Along the walking path, participants are able to see numerous pairs of shoes that represent each person lost to suicide in Alabama. There are also statistics, hotline numbers and pieces of advice posted throughout the walk. In the U.S., a person commits suicide every 13.7 minutes. Suicide is the fourth leading cause of death in the U.S. among adults ages 18 to 65, and the second leading cause of death among teens and young adults. According to AFSP, more
than 90 percent of those who commit suicide have a diagnosable and treatable mental illness at the time of their deaths. Some people find it hard to see how many have been lost to suicide, Grayson noted. But for her and others, the walk reminds them that they are not alone. Last year, Birmingham held the sixth largest walk out of more than 250 national events and raised $158,717 for AFSP. This year’s walk will be held on Nov. 3 from 2:30-4:30 p.m. at Heardmont Park, located at 5458 Cahaba Valley Road. Register for free at afsp. donordrive.com. For more, call Grayson at 613-6630 or visit afsp.org.
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Village Living
Faith Life Actually By Kari Kampakis
Why getting caught is good
I once stole cash from my brother Jack, and not until I got busted did anyone have a clue. I was young at the time, probably seven or eight, and intrigued by money. I didn’t want to spend it; I wanted to hoard it. To me, money meant security, and because adults were always telling me to “save for a rainy day,” I figured I needed a cushion. So instead of buying toys, I let my savings accumulate. I was proud because this took great discipline. My scheme started one morning when Jack, eight years older than me, told me his lockbox code and showed me the contents. The mountain of green bills took my breath away, and although they were wadded up, they were still beautiful to me. After ogling over his stash, I looked at my brother in awe. Wow, I thought, Jack is rich! He is so lucky! Back in my bedroom, I couldn’t stop
thinking about Jack’s rainy day reserve. It was so much bigger than mine it saddened me. As I spread my money across my bedspread, I began to rationalize. I came up with reasons to steal, only I didn’t consider it stealing. I considered it “borrowing” because bad people steal and good people borrow. My self-talk sounded like this: Jack has so much money, he won’t miss a few bills. I just want to see how his cash looks mixed in with mine, how big my collection can get. I’ll give it back in a few days. Jack won’t care. He never gets mad. I accomplished my crime without a hitch, and I was so happy afterward the guilt dissipated. No one had seen me, so I was safe. I could pretend it never happened. But as fate would have it, my sister Mary Kathryn walked in my room later that day and saw my money on the bed. She offered to count it, which wasn’t unusual because she and Jack often provided this service for their money-hoarding sister. Mary Kathryn was impressed by my wealth — so impressed she had to tell the entire family. My parents and three other siblings were watching TV in the den. As Mary Kathryn and I walked in, she announced, “Y’all won’t believe how much money Kari has. $60!” There was a pause before my brother replied, “Wait a minute. I counted Kari’s money this morning. She only had $40 then.”
I knew I’d been caught, so I didn’t respond. As my family put two and two together, they asked me if I’d stolen from Jack. I nodded and braced myself for someone to start yelling or lecturing me. But no one did. All I can remember are six stares of disbelief. It was terrible, the worst punishment possible. Although that experience was painful, I’m thankful for it now. I’m glad I got caught because it kept me honest. While I can’t say I never lied again, I can say I never pulled another stunt like that. The humiliation stuck with me, and I never wanted anyone to look at me the way my family did that day. As a parent, I’m now told to pray that my children get caught. It’s hard because part of me doesn’t want to know. Part of me wants to believe they’re incapable of being sneaky or dishonest. But if I truly care about their future and want what’s best long-term, I need to embrace this prayer. While my children are young, I have a precious window of opportunity to teach them right from wrong. Right now their hearts are pliable, and they want to please. They aren’t too set in their ways. Now’s the time to establish honest habits. Now’s the time for them to mess up while they’re under my roof and my watch and I can hold them accountable. Accountability leads to life lessons they won’t forget. It will make them think twice before pulling the same stunt again. The underlying truth relevant to all
parents is that dishonest children become dishonest adults. They maintain the same behavior but kick it up to a bigger scale with graver consequences. Instead of cheating a brother, they may cheat a company. Or stockholders. Or perhaps even a spouse or child. And that is why I’ll pray for my children to get caught even when it pains me. I’ll remember how tempting the immediate payoff of lying is and why it’s hard to reverse the pattern once someone masters the art. For a child who lies and gets caught, lying again is risky. For a child who lies and gets away with it, the reward is worth it. We parents worry a lot about developing our children’s talent and intelligence, but what we really need to get right early on is character. Without an honest foundation, talent and intelligence won’t matter because no one will trust them. May other parents call to mind their own lessons from the past and join me in praying for awareness. Our children won’t think it at the time, but our prayers that they get caught could be the best thing that ever happened to them. Kari Kubiszyn Kampakis is a Mountain Brook mom of four with a background in PR, writing, and photography. For more inspiration, join her Facebook community at “Kari Kampakis, Writer” or find her on Twitter, Pinterest and Instagram. Visit her website at karikampakis.com or contact her at kari@karikampakis.com.
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VillageLivingOnline.com
Calendar Mountain Brook Events Sept. 28-Oct. 28: Pumpkin Patch. Monday-Saturday 9 a.m.-5 p.m., Sundays 11 a.m.-5 p.m. Special hours Oct. 13 and 14 from 11 a.m.-7:30 p.m. and Oct. 28 from 9-11 a.m. Mountain Brook Baptist Church.
p.m. Away. Oct. 13: ‘Israel Inside’ Documentary Film Showing. Levite Jewish Community Center. 3 p.m. Visit bhamjcc.org.
Author Amy Stewart will share stories from her travels and recipes from her book, The Drunken Botanist. Entry is $20. To register, visit bbgardens.org/classes or drunkenbotanist.com for more.
Oct. 3-6: Antiques at The Gardens. Birmingham Botanical Gardens. 1-5 p.m. (Thursday), 10 a.m.-5 p.m. (Friday & Saturday), & 11 a.m.-3 p.m.( Sunday). Renowned tastemakers and dealers from across the country will curate themed areas. Tickets are $10 for nonmembers and free for members. Visit bbgardens. org/antiques or call 414-3950.
Oct. 15-19: Mountain Brook High School Choir Show. High School Fine Arts Center. 7 p.m. Tuesday-Thursday, 2 p.m. Saturday. Call 414-3800 for tickets.
Oct. 26: National Prescription Take Back Program. 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Drop off unwanted prescription medications for safe disposal at the Mountain Brook police station.
Oct. 18: Mountain Brook High School Varsity Football vs. Huffman. 7 p.m. Home.
Oct. 27: Jewish Food Festival. Levite Jewish Community Center. 11 a.m.-2 p.m. Food, a bake sale and activities for children. Visit bhamjcc.org.
Oct. 4: Mountain Brook High School Homecoming Parade. 2:30 p.m. The parade route winds up Montevallo Road into Crestline Village. Oct. 4: Mountain Brook High School Varsity Football vs. Carver. 7 p.m. Homecoming.
Oct. 19-20: Fall Plant Sale. Birmingham Botanical Gardens. 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Saturday, noon- 4 p.m. Sunday. Proceeds benefit the gardens’ programs. Visit bbgardens.org. Oct. 20: Fall Festival. 3:30-6 p.m. Brookwood Baptist Church. Trunk or treat, inflatables and food.
Mountain Brook Baptist will host its annual Fall Festival on Oct. 27.
Oct. 27: Fall Family Festival. 4-6 p.m. Mountain Brook Baptist Church. Games and booths, face painting, cake walk, hayride and music by the Hoover High Jazz Band. Oct. 30: Trunk or Treat. 5-7:15 p.m. St. Luke’s Episcopal Church. Face painting at 5 p.m., dinner at 5:30 p.m., Trunk or Treat at 6 p.m., Games and activities for children at 6:30 p.m.
Oct. 4-5: Mountain Brook Athletics Winter Sports Registration. For basketball and wrestling. 4:30-6 p.m. Friday, 9 a.m.noon Saturday. Mountain Brook Junior High School. Visit mbathletics.org.
Oct. 23-Nov. 3: Shop Save & Share. Shoppers recieve up to a 20 percent discount at participating retailers using a Shop Save & Share card. Proceeds benefit the Junior League of Birmingham programs. Cards are $40. Visit jlbonline. com.
Oct. 5-10: USGA 2013 Mid-Amateur Championship. The Country Club of Birmingham. Visit usga.org.
Oct. 25: Mountain Brook High School Varsity Football vs. Vestavia. 7 p.m. Home.
Oct. 31: Mystics of Mountain Brook Halloween Parade. Crestline Village. 4 p.m. Participants on floats will throw beads, T-shirts, stuffed animals and footballs. Visit welcometomountainbrook. com.
Oct. 11: Mountain Brook High School Varsity Football vs. Hewitt Trussville. 7
Oct. 25: The Drunken Botanist. Birmingham Botanical Gardens. 5:30 p.m.
Nov. 1: Mountain Brook High School Varsity Football vs. Parker. 7 p.m. Home.
The annual Mystics of Mountain Brook Parade welcomes costumes of all shapes and sizes.
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Village Living
Calendar Birmingham Area Events
Fiesta Hispanic Cultural Festival wiill bring a taste of Latin American countries to Linn Park on Oct. 5
Act of Congress and Matthew Mayfield will play at Colonial Brookwood Village for the Hot Strings festival on Oct. 6.
Oct. 1-5: Oak Mountain State Fall Fair. 5 p.m. - 4 a.m. Tuesday-Friday, 1 p.m.-midnigth Saturday. Oak Mountain Amphitheatre. (Purchase tickets at the gate or at Walgreens. Call 985-4900 or visit oakmountainstatefair. com.
contests, live entertainment, children activities and the Mutt Strut, a mile-long walk around the park benefiting homeless pets at Shelby Humane Society. Register online at barkinthepark.shelbyhumane.org. For more, email info@shelbyhumane.org.
Oct. 1-6: Rosenwald Revisited by Ann Smithwick. 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Tuesday-Saturday, noon-5 p.m. Sunday. Birmingham Museum of Art. Free. Ann Smithwick is a professional documentary photographer based in Memphis. She discovered her home was a former “Rosenwald School,” which established a foundation for African-American education in the U.S. Call 254-2565 or visit artsbma.org.
Oct. 6: Hot Strings Music & Arts Festival. Colonial Brookwood Village. Artists, kids activities and live music. Three on a String, Mandolin Orange, Act of Congress and Matthew Mayfield will perform. Benefits local rescue mission and recovery center The Foundry. $15. Visit HotStrings.org.
Oct. 3-6: ‘Bill W. & Dr. Bob.’ 7:30- 9:30 p.m. Thursday-Saturday, 2:30 -4:30 p.m. Saturday & Sunday. Virginia Samford Theatre, 1116 26th Street South. 7$25-30, $17 for students and groups of 10 or more. This play tells the true story of how stockbroker Bill Wilson and surgeon Bob Smith, both alcoholics, formed a relationship that was the genesis of Alcoholics Anonymous and the first 12-step program. Call 251-1206 or visit virginiasamfordtheatre.org. Oct. 5: Fiesta Hispanic Cultural Festival. Linn Park. Noon-8 p.m. The festival will display the culture, music and food of more than 20 Latin American countries. Visit fiestabirmingham. com.
The Vintage Festival returns to Barber Motorsports Oct. 11-13.
Oct. 5: Bark in the Park. Veteran’s Park in Alabaster. Free. This all-day affair will feature activities for both pets and people, including
Oct. 6: New York Polyphony. 3- 4:15 p.m. Cathedral Church of the Advent, 2017 Sixth Ave. North. Free. This ensemble is regarded as one of the finest singing groups in the world, ranging from medieval melodies to cuttingedge contemporary compositions. Call 2263505 or visit adventbirmingham.org. Oct. 8: 2nd Tuesday Ballet Series. 7 p.m Alabama Ballet Center for Dance. Free. Get a behind the scenes glimpse of Alabama Ballet’s upcoming season productions and participate in a studio chat with Artistic Director Tracey Alvey. Call 322-4300 or visit alabamaballet.org. Oct. 10: America’s Got Talent Live. 7:30 p.m. BJCC. $27-$55.25. Call 1-800-745-3000. Oct. 10: Light the Night. 5:30 p.m. The Summit. Free. Join the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society by celebrating and commemorating the
VillageLivingOnline.com
B15 October 2013 • A39
Calendar Area Events lives touched by blood cancers by walking for a cure for cancer. There will be food, entertainment, illuminated balloons and goodies. Call 989-0098 or visit lightthenight. org/al. Oct. 11-13: The 9th Annual Barber Vintage Festival. 7:30 a.m. 6030 Barber Motorsports Parkway. Three days of motorcycle entertainment, including The Barber Vintage Motorsports Museum and Motorcycles by Moonlight Benefit Dinner. Call 699-7275 or visit barbervintagefestival.org. Oct. 12: History Hike. 9 a.m. Oak Mountain State Park. Park admission $3 for adults, $1 for children ages 6 to 11 and for senior citizens ages 62 and older. Learn about the history of Oak Mountain State park during a 3-and-a-half-mile round trip. Call 620-2520 or visit alapark.com/oakmountain.
in September 1963. Call 478-4615 or visit magiccitychoralsocietyy.org. Oct. 13: Break ‘n Bread Food & Wine Festival. 1-5 p.m. Railroad Park, 1600 First Ave South. $35 for adults ages 21 and older, $12 for youth ages 12 to 20 and free for children under age 12. Visit breaknbread. zeekeeinteractive.com. Oct. 17: Beer, BBQ and Bingo Party. 6:30 p.m. Avondale Brewery. Barbecue dinner from Golden Rule, Avondale microbrews, bingo prizes, live music. Hosted by the Junior Board of the Robert E. Reed Foundation, which supports patient care and GI cancer research at UAB. $25 per person or $45 per couple. Purchase tickets at reedgifoundation.com/events or at the door.
Oct. 12: 11th Annual Art in Avondale Park. 10 a.m.-4 p.m. 4101 5th Avenue South. Free. Artists’ exhibits, music, food and children’s art activities. Visit artinavondalepark.org.
October 22: Borealis Wind Quintet with Leon Bates. 7:30 p.m. Samford University Brock Recital Hall. Presented by the Birmingham Chamber Music Society. $25, $10 for students with ID. Call 726-2853 or visit www.samford.edu/arts/.
Oct. 13: Civil Rights Concert. 5 p.m. Alys Stephens Performing Arts Center, Jemison Hall. Free. The Magic City Choral Society Men’s and Women’s Chorus will lead a collaboration of choirs to present the world premiere of “Band of Angels” led by Alabama composer K. Lee Scott to remember the children who died in the 16th Street Baptist Church bombing
Oct. 26: Zombie Chase. 10 a.m. Red Mountain Park. 5K run presented by Birmingham Young Professionals Kiwanis will benefit Better Basics, an organization that provides literacy intervention for elementary and middle-school students throughout Alabama. $40 before Oct. 12, $50 after Oct. 12. Visit facebook.com/ TheZombieChase.
Emmet O’Neal Library Call-445-1121 or visit eolib.org for more.
Adults
Wednesdays: Brown Bag Lunch Series. Noon doors open, 12:30 p.m. program. Oct. 5: Cities For Life Education Lecture on Nurturing Healthy Families, 2:30-3:30 p.m. Oct. 8: The Bookies. Book group discussing “And the Mountains Echoed” by Khaled Hosseini, 10 a.m. Oct. 12: Knit & Knibble. All crafts and skill levels welcome, 2-3:30 p.m. Oct. 12: Nightmare On Oak Street Horror Movie Double Feature, 5 p.m. Call 445-1117 for titles and/or more information Oct. 14: Great Books. Book group discussing a selected short story, “The Country Where Nobody Ever Grew Old and Died” by William Maxwell, 6:30 p.m. Oct. 15: Documentaries After Dark. Film about Hollywood Forever Cemetery, 6:30 p.m. Oct. 26-27: Dead Authors’ Graveyard, Saturday 10 a.m.-4 p.m. & Sunday 1-4 p.m. All ages walk-thru attractio. Might be alarming to small children. Oct. 29: Genre Reading Group. Discussing forensic fiction, 6:30 p.m.
Teens
Oct. 2: TAB. Monthly meeting of our Teen Advisory Board, 5-6 p.m. Oct. 4: Game On Video Game Tournament, 4:30-6:30 p.m. Oct. 6: Teen Book Group, 1-2:30 p.m. Oct. 11: Dia de los Muertos Sugar Skulls, 4-6 p.m.
Children
Mondays *Toddler Tales Story Time. 9:30 & 10:30 a.m. Tuesdays Together Time Story Time. 9:30 & 10:30 a.m. Library Out Loud Story Time. 3:30 p.m. Evenings @ EOL. 6 p.m. Wednesdays *Mother Goose Story Time. 9:30 & 10:30 a.m. Thursdays *Patty Cake Story Time. 9:30 & 10:30 a.m. SNaP. 3:30 p.m. Saturdays Family Story Time with Mr. Mac. 10:30 a.m.
Special Events
Oct. 1: Evenings @ EOL: PJ Storytime, 6 p.m. Oct. 8: Family Night: Atlantic Coast Theatre’s Rumpelstiltskin, 5:30 p.m. Oct. 15: Evenings @ EOL: Movie: Mickey and the Beanstalk, 6 p.m. Oct. 18: A Night Dark and Grimm, 6 p.m. Oct. 22: Evenings @ EOL: Boards and Blocks (games and LEGOs), 6 p.m. Oct. 24: *Bookmania: Rump, 6 p.m. Oct. 29: Evenings @ EOL: Paint a Pumpkin, 6 p.m. *Space is limited; please call 879-0497 or visit eolib.org to register.
A40 • October 2013
Village Living
“They Laughed and Said, ‘Dude, You’re Fat.’ “But Then I Looked in The Mirror…”
“Iron Tribe got me off the couch -- and into shape!” –Jason The mirror was right. My friends were, too. I was fat. What a humiliating difference a few years can make …
Jason Before Iron Tribe
You see, 15 years ago, I was in great shape. Even played sports in college. But after an injury, I stopped exercising. I got lazy, and my body went downhill. Then, I married a marathon runner. She was in great shape, and I had to catch up -- fast. That’s when I found Iron Tribe Fitness. I started with their 101 Intro Program, which was a huge help for me. I was so out of shape, I couldn’t even do a pull-up. But the 101 helped me get my confidence back. I saw changes in my body, too -- in only 30 days. After graduating from 101, I was nervous to start the regular classes. But my coaches were there for me. They helped me learn the moves and get better. Then, one day … BOOM. I had a great
Jason is down 60lbs and loving life!
great and feel even better, on my lunch hour. With my schedule, I never thought that would be possible. I went from a 265-pound couch potato to a 205-pound Iron Tribe Athlete.
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workout and competed with the rest of the class. That’s when I thought, “I can do this!”
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Now, I’m competing with my wife, the marathon runner. In fact, after seeing my slimmer stomach, she joined Iron Tribe, too. Now she’s even more competitive. She wins her age group all the time when she runs.
getting it done at Iron Tribe Fitness. Call any of our 6 locations at the numbers below. When you call, mention Offer Code: “Make It Work” to receive a special Gift Voucher worth $100. Or, visit
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The best part about Iron Tribe? I got my confidence back. I got in shape again. It’s been fun. And it’s fast -- I get in, get my workout done, and get out in less than 55 minutes! Now I can look
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Homewood 205.874.6300
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205.802.1775
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Hoover
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205.254.6121
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