StopBloodCancer.com
Village Living Volume 5 | Issue 2 | May 2014
A reading explosion
May 2014 • A1
neighborly news & entertainment for Mountain Brook
Time to speak out
Summer reading will kick off with an annual festival at the Emmet O’Neal Library this month. Find event details and more about the Fizz! Boom! Read! theme inside.
Community page B13
Honoring mothers With family and community members in mind, Catherine McCarty, Lulu Null, Billy Bromberg and Kat Lawson are helping organize efforts through Aware to achieve its mission that “not one more be lost.” Photo by Madoline Markham.
By MADOLINE MARKHAM
Crestline Village will be flooded with teal this Mother’s Day weekend for an annual ovarian cancer research walk. Read more about it in this issue.
Community page B10
INSIDE Sponsors ...... A4 City ................ A6 Business ....... A8 Food .............. A17 Sports ........... A21
School House.. B1 Community..... B10 Celebrations... B17 Faith ............... B19 Calendar ........ B20
Before this year, Billy Bromberg had never had a discussion with his children about suicide. That changed in his nephew’s final hours of life. Bromberg and his children, ages 17, 21 and 23, were in the hospital waiting as 23-year-old Keenon’s body fought to survive. It had been just hours
since Keenon took measures to end his life. In these moments in the hospital, Bromberg realized that what had previously been a statistic was now hitting home. It was time to bring an issue that he said many people in the community don’t want to talk about into the light, he thought. The first step for him, though, was a conversation with
more he noticed Keenon changing. “I observed he was having trouble adjusting, but I did not become alarmed enough,” Bromberg said. “Looking back, I did not take the action as I should have.” Bromberg’s revelation of hindsight is what members of a new group named Aware hope to
See AWARE | page A22
Your view: In a recent survey, residents indicated the most important concerns for the community to address. See the full results on A23.
Market planned for Crestline this summer By MADOLINE MARKHAM
StopBloodCancer.com
Pre-Sort Standard U.S. Postage PAID Birmingham, AL Permit #656
his children in the hospital. Keenon, a Mountain Brook High School graduate, had been working for his uncle and dad’s business, John-William Jeweller, part-time while he was in school. Every Friday night, Keenon, his uncle and cousin went to the movies. He liked to play the role of film critic. But the more time Bromberg spent with Keenon, the
Area residents talk to local farmers about their produce at Urban Cookhouse’s farmers market in SoHo in Homewood. Restaurant owners plan to bring a similar market to Crestline Village on Wednesday evenings. Photo by Madoline Markham.
In summers past, Crestline resident Sharon Graham has driven to Finley Avenue and Pepper Place downtown in search of locally grown vegetables. This year, however, she said she is looking forward to finding a similar selection of produce without leaving Crestline. “I will love the convenience of having [a market] so close,” she said. Urban Cookhouse will hold a farmers market on Wednesday evenings this summer on Vine Street. The market will run 10 weeks, June 4-Aug. 6, from 4-8 p.m.
IT’S TIME TO TAKE A vacation FROM CLEANING.
“There is a growing need for fresh local produce [in Crestline], especially with the Pig closing,” Market Manager Laura Powell said. “We want to meet the needs of the community while supporting small family farmers in Alabama.” The plan for the market features 23 vendor spaces and a kids’ area that will feature activities such as Wiffle Ball, inflatables, corn hole and face painting. The restaurant’s idea to create local farmers markets was born out of a desire to both support the growers that supply their produce and to enhance the communities
See MARKET | page A22
Proudly keeping homes cleaner and healthier since 1987
871-9338 www.MAIDS.com
Give yourself a break, call the cleaning service most recommended to family and friends.
Referred for a reason.
A2 • May 2014
Village Living
Get Swimsuit Ready! Simple Treatments Real Results No Downtime
25%
! s e c i v e d n o i t c u off our fat red
made losing s a h y g lo o n h c te e New non – invasiv t a reality! fa rn o b b tu s d n a hes those dreaded inc
Offer valid for a limited time. Schedule your free consultation today 205-870-3303
Bye Bye Cellulite! VASERshape is the simple solution - the extra help - you need to look your best. This relaxing, non - surgical treatment reduces the appearance of cellulite, leaving your body smooth and beautiful with zero downtime. Save 25% off treatments. Call 205-870-3303 for more information or to schedule your complimentary consultation. (offer expires 6/30/14)
Noticeable Results After 1 Treatment
Dermatology & Laser of Alabama 201 Office Park Drive, Suite 250 Mountain Brook, Alabama 35223 Phone: 205-870-3303 birminghamskin.com
Dr. Sarah Sawyer is Board Certified in Dermatology and Fellowship Trained in Aesthetic Lasers. She oversees Alabama’s Largest Collection of Fat Reduction Devices.
StopBloodCancer.com
May 2014 • A3
A4 • May 2014
Village Living
About Us Photo of the Month
Please Support our Community Partners
Sisters and cousins Ann Elise Leonard, Amelia Powell, Claire Leonard and Sara Clark Powell wear dresses hand-sewn by their maternal grandmother, Sara Warr Strong, at the annual Children’s Arts Guild fashion show benefiting the Children’s Dance Foundation. The girls walked to honor their Sisi (Strong), Jeanine “Nene” Powell and Jan “Nan” Leonard. Photo courtesy of Elena Leonard.
Send your submissions for Photo of the Month to jennifer@villagelivingonline.com
Editor’s Note By Jennifer Gray Do you love summer produce? I can’t wait for the wonderful tomatoes, corn and squash when the weather turns warm. This summer, the market at Pepper Place won’t be the only place to meet farmers and buy delicious vegetables. Urban Cookhouse in Crestline is putting together a weekly farmers market right here in Mountain Brook. Read all about the details in this issue, then start pulling out your favorite summer recipes. Another addition to Mountain Brook that also promotes the farm-to-table movement is a new dairy delivery service. I used to love every Saturday when Mr. Moorer would come by our house in his red delivery truck bringing milk and eggs. He would always give us a stick of gum
and then let my brother and me ride in his truck around the corner to the next delivery. Colby’s Creamery will be bringing back deliveries of milk, yogurt, cottage cheese and other products to Mountain Brook residents. You can find out how his service works in this issue. With May comes the end to another school year. We have a great article featuring a group of seniors reflecting on their time at the high school. Good luck, Class of 2014. Speaking of education, there is a group of men in our community who are working to make a difference in the lives of at-risk children in Birmingham by making sure they have a school they can call their own. PreSchool Partners is getting its
own building just in time for its 20-year anniversary. Read how these local men, along with countless others from Mountain Brook, are giving of their time, talents and resources to make this dream come true. Lastly, get out and enjoy all of the many fun events taking place this month. You can walk or run in the Norma Livingston Ovarian Cancer run, sample kosher barbecue at the When Pigs Fly barbecue competition, kick off a summer of reading, or just take a walk in one of the villages and enjoy browsing around a new store such as Oli.O as well as your old favorites. May is a great month in Mountain Brook!
Village Living Publisher: Creative Director: Graphic Designer: Editor: Managing Editor: Executive Editor: Staff Writer: Advertising Manager: Sales and Distribution:
Dan Starnes Keith McCoy Emily VanderMey Jennifer Gray Madoline Markham Jeff Thompson Katie Turpen Matthew Allen Rhonda Smith Warren Caldwell Michelle Salem Haynes Nathan Pearman Contributing Writers: Kari Kampakis Olivia Burton Interns: Sydney Cromwell Rachael Headley Published by: Village Living LLC
School House Contributors: Catherine Gasque & Catherine Bodnar - Cherokee Bend, Lisa Stone - Crestline, Kathleen Woodry - Brookwood Forest, Suzanne Milligan - Mountain Brook High School, Hilary Ross- Mountain Brook Elementary, Elizabeth Farrar - Mountain Brook Junior 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.
Please recycle this paper
A Little Something (B22) Alabama Allergy & Asthma Center (B10) Alabama Outdoors (B1) Alabama Power (B9) Alabama Symphony Orchestra (B21) Amy Smith (B13) Bedzzz Express (A5) Birmingham Speech and Hearing Associates (A14) Briarcliff Shop (B10) Bromberg & Company, Inc. (A20, B24) Canterbury Gardens (B8) Case Remodeling (A15) Chickadee (B16) Christopher Glenn (B6) Classic Gardens (A17) Columbia Cottage/The Cottages (B8) Committee to Elect Pamela Blackmore-Jenkins (B19) Dermatology and Laser of Alabama (A2) Dish’n It Out (A22) Etc. (B4) Ex Voto Vintage (B17) Fi-Plan Partners (A23) Fred Smith Group (B6) Hanna’s Garden Shop (B15) Homewood Toy & Hobby (B15) Hufham Orthodontics (B4) Issis & Sons (A15) John-William Jeweller (A6) Jordan Alexander Jewelry (B13) King’s House Oriental Rugs (B19) Kirkwood by the River (B7) Lamb’s Ears, Ltd. (A6, B18) Lane Parke - Evson Inc. (A9) Lane Parke/Daniel Corporation (A17) Leaf & Petal (A11) Levite Jewish Community Center (A19) Marguerite’s Conceits (B18) Brookwood Village (A16) Monkee’s of Mountain Brook (A14) Mountain Brook Chamber of Commerce (B11) Mountain Brook Plastic Surgery & Laser Center (B16) Mountain Brook Sports Corporation (B17) Otey’s (B7) Please Reply (B14) RealtySouth (A24) Red Mountain Theatre Company (A12) Renasant Bank (A3) Samford Summer Camp (B3) Savage’s Bakery (A12) Sew Sheri Designs (A5) Sherwin Williams (B21) Steve French for House (A11) Swoop (A22) T-Mobile (A21) Taco Mama (A20) The Blue Willow (B14) The Cook Store (A22) The Fitness Center (A13) The Maids (A1) Total Fitness Consultants (B12) Tutoring Club Cahaba Heights (B4) UAB Medicine (A10) Village Dermatology (A7) Vitalogy Wellness Center (A8)
StopBloodCancer.com
May 2014 • A5
A6 • May 2014
Village Living
City
CRIME REPORT Week of March 13-19 Theft of Property
Unknown suspect(s) entered an unlocked vehicle and stole a firearm, phone and currency.
On March 19, a theft occurred in the 2800 block of Canterbury Road. Unknown suspect(s) stole lawn equipment from the back of a truck. Between March 11-14, a theft a theft occurred in the 4400 block of Caldwell Mill Road. Unknown suspect(s) stole equipment from a construction site. Burglary Between March 17-19, a burglary occurred at a business in the 300 block of Overbrook Road. Unknown suspect(s) entered an unlocked window and stole electronic equipment. On March 13, a theft occurred on the 600 block of Brookwood Village. Unknown suspect(s) took a saw from a truck that was parked in the parking lot. Between March 16-17, a home burglary occurred in the 2100 block of English Village Lane. Unknown suspect(s) entered the unlocked residence and stole a wallet and credit cards. On March 13, a burglary occurred in the 4100 block of Old Leeds Road. Unknown suspect(s) entered an unlocked door of the residence. Stolen items are computer equipment, electronic equipment, and lawn equipment. Unlawful Breaking and Entering a Vehicle Between March 16-17, a UBEV occurred in the 2100 block of Salisbury Road. Unknown suspect(s) entered and unlocked vehicle and stole currency. Between March 11-14, a UBEV occurred in the 3800 block of Brook Hollow Lane.
Week of March 20-26 Unlawful Breaking Entering Vehicle A UBEV occurred on March 26 in the 3800 block of River Run Drive. Unknown suspect(s) forced entry to a vehicle and stole a watch, currency, sunglasses and an iPad. A UBEV occurred on March 22 in the 3000 block of Overton Road. Unknown suspect(s) entered an unlocked vehicle and stole a purse, currency, credit cards and a camera. A UBEV occurred between March 20-21 in the 3500 block of Victoria Road. Unknown suspect(s) stole a purse, credit cards and other items from an unlocked vehicle. A UBEV occurred between March 20-21 in the 4200 block of Antietam Drive. Unknown suspect(s) stole purses and currency from an unlocked vehicle. A UBEV occurred between March 20-21 in the 20 block of Pinecrest Road. Unknown suspect(s) stole tools, medication, firearms, electronics and currency from an unlocked vehicle. A UBEV occurred between March 20-21 in the 4000 block of Old Leeds Road. There were no items reported stolen. A UBEV occurred between March 20-21 in the 2800 block of Balmoral Road. Unknown suspect(s) stole electronics, currency and a computer from an unlocked vehicle. A UBEV occurred between March 20-21 in the 2800 block of Balmoral Road. Unknown suspect(s) stole sunglasses from an unlocked vehicle. A UBEV occurred between March 20-21 in the 2800 block of Balmoral Road. Unknown suspects stole electronics from an unlocked
JOHNWILLIAM JEWELLER.COM
vehicle. A UBEV occurred between March 19-21 in the 3500 block of Victoria Road. Unknown suspect(s) stole sunglasses, purses and jewelry from an unlocked vehicle. A UBEV occurred on March 21 in the 3200 block of Dell Road. Unknown suspect(s) stole credit cards from an unlocked vehicle. Theft of Property A theft occurred on March 25 in the 2600 block of Carriage Place. Unknown suspect(s) stole lawn equipment from a yard. A theft occurred on March 25 in the 300 block of Overbrook Road. Unknown suspect(s) stole lawn equipment from a yard. A theft occurred on March 24 in the 3100 block of Pine Ridge Road. Unknown suspect(s) took a chainsaw from the back of a truck. A theft occurred on March 22 in the 2800 block of Canterbury Road. Unknown suspect(s) stole a backpack blower from a truck. A theft occurred on March 21 in the 30 block of Norman Drive. Unknown suspect(s) stole a backpack blower from a truck. Burglary / Residential A burglary occurred between March 19-20 in the 4000 block of Old Leeds Road. Unknown suspect(s) entered a residence and stole firearms. Week of March 27-April 2 Credit Card Fraud / Suspicious Persons On March 30, Mountain Brook Police Department officers were approached by a citizen and notified of two suspicious persons in the Crestline Village area whom the citizen
had observed exit a vehicle near the village. Officers located the two subjects and identified them as Daniil Kostinov and Artem Udodov. Both of the subjects provided out of state addresses to the officers. Further on-scene investigation was performed, and Kostinov and Udodov were allowed to leave the area. A few days later, Mountain Brook officers were informed of fraudulent credit card activity that had taken place in the Crestline Village area on March 30. MBPD detectives then conducted a follow up investigation and linked Kostinov and Udodov to the credit card fraud. Arrest warrants have been obtained for these two subjects. Detectives have worked closely with other law enforcement agencies in Alabama and several other states to link the two subjects to similar crimes in those jurisdictions. This case is a very good example of how important it is for citizens to report suspicious activity. Because this citizen got involved, Mountain Brook Police Deparment has been able to identify two multi-state offenders and also solve several cases. Week of April 3-10 Unlawful Breaking Entering Vehicle A UBEV occurred between April 2-4 on the 2700 block of U.S. 280. Unknown suspect(s) entered an unlocked vehicle and stole an iPad. Theft of Property On April 8, a theft occurred in the 4200 Block of Old Leeds Road. Unknown suspect(s) stole a vehicle from the residence. -Submitted by Mountain Brook Police
Join us for a bite... Delicious samplings from some of our many unique cookbooks. You’re sure to find one to add to your collection, or the perfect choice for a gift
Lamb’s Ears, Ltd. May 7-10 12 to 3pm
CHURCH STREET
81 Church Street
CRESTLINE VILLAGE
870-4367
Codming Soon... Online Shopping at LambsEarsLtd.com
70 Church Street Crestline Village 205.802.5700 LambsEarsLtd@gmail.com
StopBloodCancer.com
May 2014 • A7
Little Hardware looking to move to English Village
CityBriefs Updates from recent Mountain Brook City Council meetings
New stop at Dexter and West Moncrest At its April 14 meeting, the Council approved a three-way stop at the intersection of Dexter Avenue and West Montcrest Drive. A sidewalk along West Moncrest Drive from Euclid Avenue to Jackson Boulevard was already planned for construction as well as a crosswalk at West Moncrest and Dexter. These conditions created a need for Little Hardware is considering moving from its current location in Mountain Brook Village to the current Park Lane building in English Village.
By MADOLINE MARKHAM Little Hardware could be moving into the current Park Lane building in English Village as early as this summer. The business is currently located in Mountain Brook Village. “This appears to be a good opportunity for us if all the pieces fall into place,” Little Hardware owner Frank Davies said. “It’s exciting to have the opportunity to be in that space, because I think it’s a good location.” Mike Mouron, chairman of Capstone Real Estate Investments, is currently in a binding contract to purchase the property. He said he hopes to sign a letter of intent with Little Hardware by the end of April that will move quickly into a lease agreement. “I see nothing to prevent the purchase from going through,” Mouron said. Mouron had previously been in negotiations with owners of The Tavern at the Summit about moving into this space. The lease of the current tenant of the space at 2117 Cahaba Road, Park Lane by Kathy G., lasts through the end of June, so the earliest
that preparations could begin for Little Hardware’s proposed move is early July. To the right of the existing building, Little Hardware is looking to build a complementary dry storage shed to house materials such as fertilizers and charcoal. The space where this would be built has been used for parking for Park Lane and previous tenant Arman’s. A segment of the lot is lined with a fence and greenery that acts as a buffer between the building and the residence next door. It would remain as it currently is, Mouron said. In order to build such a structure, this segment of the property must be rezoned from Residence C to Local Business district. “We believe we have complete neighborhood support [for this rezoning] and have met with neighbors including the ones who live in the residence adjacent to the property,” Mouron said. The Mountain Brook Planning Commission will consider this proposed rezoning at its May 5 meeting, and if approved, the Mountain Brook City Council will hold a public hearing on the rezoning at its May 12 meeting.
the three-way stop to be added to slow traffic for pedestrian crossings. Before the vote on this decision, one resident voiced opposition to the three-way stop because he didn’t feel it was necessary, and another supported it because he said cars drive fast through the area and many kids nearby play.
Bethune Drive closing A section of Bethune Drive closed to traffic to repair storm damage starting in mid-April. The repairs are expected to last until mid to late May. Traffic flow between Oakdale Drive in front of Mountain Brook High School and
Kingshill Road is being rerouted, according to a release from the City of Mountain Brook. The drainage pipe and bridge foundation on this section of the road were damaged due to recent heavy rains. Rast Construction is completing the emergency repairs to this area.
Landscaping restrictions The Council discussed restricting the use of commercial landscaping blowers after 6 p.m. in the premeeting on April 14.
Mayor Terry Oden proposed the idea, and Jesse Vogtle and Virginia Smith recommended they hold a public hearing for the proposal.
New condos on Cahaba Road? A new 14-unit condominium development could be built on Cahaba Road just north of the Birmingham Zoo. The property is currently home to eight small single-family dwellings that would be demolished to make room for the new building, according to City Planner Dana Hazen.
These properties are 2400, 2404, 2408, 2418, 2420, 2422 and 2424 Cahaba Road and 2333 Lane Circle. The Council will hold a public hearing regarding rezoning these properties from Residence C to Residence D district on Monday, May 12.
A8 • May 2014
Village Living 2
ir R
M
a tcl on
d
d cli
e Av
5
M
u Ch
Fa
eS Av
oR
d
Montrose Rd
8
M
ll va te n o
d
1
6
Ca h
ok
Business Happenings
y
o Br
aR
459
n
ab
H
w Pk
d
un tai
7
Mountain Brook
Mo
lvd
dB
oo yw oll
Lane Park Rd
MOUNTAIN BROOK VILLAGE
St
Rd
Overbrook Rd
st
21
CRESTLINE VILLAGE
all tev on
Co
Dr ay w r i
ENGLISH VILLAGE
b Clu
h rc
4
try un
oR
Eu
280 31
k ree sC
w Pk
y
de
149
a Sh
Overton Rd
3
StopBloodCancer.com
Now Open Ex Voto Vintage is now open at 2402 Canterbury Road behind Gilchrist in Mountain Brook Village. The business features a collection of limited edition jewelry pieces created from antique elements by Elizabeth Adams. 538-7301. exvotovintage.com.
1
News and Accomplishments Basil Pizza and Wine Bar, 1101 Dunston Avenue, is now delivering pizza from 5-9 p.m. 224-4465. facebook.com/basilgourmet.
2
Outdoor clothing and gear retailer Mountain High Outfitters, 2800 Cahaba Village Plaza, Suite 250, has opened a new location in Auburn at 339 South College, Suite B. 970-3300. mountainhighoutfitters.com.
3
Taco Mama, 63 Church Street, also recently opened a second location in downtown Tuscaloosa in a former warehouse space at 2104 A University Blvd. 414-9314. tacomamaonline.com.
4
Hirings and Promotions The Crestline office of RealtySouth has welcomed Clint DeShazo as a new agent, and its Cahaba office has welcomed Mary Russell as a new agent. 879-6330. realtysouth.com.
5
Anniversaries The Cook Store, 2841 Cahaba Road, celebrated its 39th year of business last month. Wesley Lassen has owned the Mountain Brook Village business for 15 years. 879-5277. thecookstoremtnbrook.com.
6
Davenport’s Pizza Palace, 2837 Cahaba Road, is celebrating its 50th anniversary this month. 879-8603. davenportspizza.com.
7
Dande Lion, 2701 Culver Road, is celebrating its 45th anniversary of business this month and is planning to hold festivities in June. Joan Long opened the antique and home accessory store in 1969 in English Village and later moved it to Mountain Brook Village. Today Joan’s daughter Joann Long runs the store with her niece Joanne Long. 879-0691.
8
Business news
to share? Now Open Coming Soon
Relocation Expansion Anniversary
If you are in a brick and mortar business in Mountain Brook and want to share your event with the community, let us know.
Village Living iving Email dan@villagelivingonline.com
May 2014 • A9
A10 • May 2014
Village Living
Business Spotlight Jordan Alexander Jewelry
Read past Business Spotlights at villagelivingonline.com
ENGLISH VILLAGE st
21
eS Av
Fairway Dr
By MADOLINE MARKHAM Theresa Bruno’s funky yet classic pearl jewelry designs are worn by celebrities all over the country, but her heart and headquarters are right here in the Magic City. When she couldn’t find the type of pearl strands she was looking for five years ago, she started designing her own. She envisioned elegant jewelry with more edge than what she had seen and collected. Over the years, her mother and grandmother had passed on their chic style, and her friend Jennifer Styslinger pushed her to be more avant-garde. Today, her work is available in 80 showrooms across the United States, but when it came time to open a showroom of her own, Bruno knew she wanted to bring it to Birmingham. “It’s one of the sweetest things in the world when a community rallies around you,” she said. “I love going to parties and seeing my designs on all my friends.” Her flagship retail store in English Village opened a year ago, with a showroom downstairs and office upstairs. Her pieces use sliced pearls and raw gems, all set in precious metals and diamonds. Signature triple-knotted pearl necklaces give each piece movement and personality and come in colors from rich cocoa to shining silver. She envisions them paired with everything from a T-shirt to a formal dress. Bruno’s line has been covered by major magazines, including O, Vogue, Women’s Wear Daily
Jordan Alexander designer Theresa Bruno opened a showroom for her line in English Village last year. Photo courtesy of Jordan Alexander.
and Southern Living, and the list of celebrities who have donned her designs is long. “I squeal with every one of them,” she said. Younger stars like Kristin Stewart and Pink stand out to her, as do people such as Michelle Obama and Katie Couric whom she said “define the world for us.”
The Jordan Alexander showroom in English Village showcases her three distinct lines. “Jordan Alexander light” offers fresh, organic pieces that run $150-500. Next up, a line priced from $1,000-5,500 features larger pearls and diamonds in Bruno’s unique settings. On the upper echelon, her jewelry for 12 Four
2003 Cahaba Road, Suite 101 868-1391 jordanalexanderjewelry.com Tuesday-Saturday, 11 a.m.-5 p.m. Or by appointment
Seasons locations run $10,000-50,000. These pieces are not marketed in Birmingham, but she displays a few for local shoppers to see. She also hopes to display items from her Four Seasons home line — with features like paint made with crushed pearls and pearlized leather — in the showroom. Now that she is better learning her local audience, Bruno has begun to design for Birmingham customers based on trends in sales. “Southern women are pretty and soft, and they have a lot of energy,” Bruno said. “It’s fun to take a woman with traditional pearls and take their look and make it more youthful.” Whatever the look, she envisions her pieces as beautiful yet edgy ones women can collect for the rest of their lives. Jordan Alexander also does custom work. Bruno said several women in town have brought in their grandmothers’ pieces for her to remake. The end result is a one-of-a-kind design with a personal tie. “I design specifically for a woman,” she said. “I take their personality and style in mind when deciding on coloring and a comfort zone. It makes me happy to make people feel good about themselves.” Due to the availability of diamonds and pearls, Bruno buys her materials in Los Angeles and works with a craftsman there about one week of each month. Beyond that, she has chosen to locate as much of her business as possible in Birmingham — about 40 percent — to create positive economic impact. And if she’s not in Los Angeles, you can find her in her English Village showroom.
StopBloodCancer.com
May 2014 • A11
WHO’S WHO o f M O U N TA I N B R O O K
Most Likely to Lend a Helping Hand Leigh Ann Sisson Community Volunteer “Whether the matter at hand is PTO, outreach through her family’s church, helping out with youth sports or simply reaching out to assist someone in need, I cannot think of a person in our community who better embodies a servant’s heart than Leigh Ann.” -Trip Galloway Photo by Alec Dixon.
A12 • May 2014
Village Living
WHO’S WHO o f M O U N TA I N B R O O K
Most Likely to be Seen on the Jemison Trail Sarah Hayden Logan Mountain Brook High School Student “Sarah Hayden has run cross-country for Mountain Brook since seventh grade. Although she may not enjoy the races that come with the sport, she does enjoy running as a way of getting exercise. Our community is so lucky to have such a beautiful place to run or walk.” -Susan Logan Photo by Alec Dixon.
StopBloodCancer.com
May 2014 • A13
WHO’S WHO o f M O U N TA I N B R O O K
Most Musical Sara Evans Country Music Singer and Songwriter Award-winning country music star Sara Evans moved to Mountain Brook from Nashville when she married former football star and radio host Jay Barker, and they blended their families to become a family of nine. Her number-one singles include “No Place That Far,” “Born to Fly,” “Suds in the Bucket” and “A Real Fine Place to Start.” A Crestline resident, Evans’ children go to Mountain Brook schools, and she is heavily involved in supporting Alabama Forever, a nonprofit organization that helps communities in need. Photo courtesy of The Collective-Nashville.
A14 • May 2014
Village Living
WHO’S WHO o f M O U N TA I N B R O O K
Mr. Mountain Brook Dicky Barlow Mountain Brook Schools Superintendent “Mr. Barlow’s primary concern is not rankings or awards, though he is certainly aware of them. His main priorities are the students, teachers and staff under his care. When asked last spring to speak about the things that are right in the Mountain Brook school system, Mr. Barlow told stories rather than reading off stale statistics. While raising his own family here in Mountain Brook, Mr. Barlow is not simply the father to his two daughters and one son. He serves as a father figure to each student he encounters.” -Anne Womack Photo by Alec Dixon.
StopBloodCancer.com
May 2014 • A15
WHO’S WHO o f M O U N TA I N B R O O K
Ms. Mountain Brook Mimi Renneker Mom, Grandmother, Community Cheerleader “I feel my mom deserves this award because she is a wonderful representation of Mountain Brook! She is a very visible person and is well known among the community. She is very supportive of not only her nine grandchildren but also of the community as a whole. People always tell me how wonderful she is as a person, grandmother and mother. There is not a day that goes by that someone does not mention to me something she has done for them or their children.” -Emilie Renneker Photo by Alec Dixon.
A16 • May 2014
Village Living
Creamery offers new delivery service
By MADOLINE MARKHAM Seventeen years ago, an era ended. Barber’s Dairy cancelled its home delivery route, leaving Alabamians with bulk distribution as their only option for dairy products. Now, Mountain Brook has a new door-to-door dairy delivery service. “If you do research on glass bottle milk or home delivery, it has started building up again because people are trying to support the local person versus the big company, and that’s what we’re trying to do,” said Colby White of Colby’s Creamery. White said home delivery is more convenient than driving to the grocery store and provides products that his customers said taste fresher. For White’s service, customers pay $3 delivery free, which he said is less than the cost of a gallon of gas. Most
of his products are a little cheaper than name-brand products at grocery stores, he said. Customers can order any of a selection Bordon Dairy products, including milk varieties, yogurts, cottage cheese and Dairy Fresh orange juice. He also sells pork products, cheeses and chicken tenders from Royal Foods in Pell City and is working to add farm-fresh eggs (he currently sells Bourdon eggs) and local honey to his product list. Customers generally arrange for a weekly delivery and can change their order from week to week or even at the time of delivery. White bills them at the time of delivery and picks up payment the following week. White makes daily trips to Bourdon Dairy’s warehouse before beginning his delivery route around 3 a.m. He drops off at least 100 orders before his customers leave for work and usually ends
his route around 8 a.m. After delivering in Pell City for the past year and a half, he added a Mountain Brook route in late March. “Back when home delivery was prominent in Alabama, Mountain Brook was the best area,” White said. “I thought they would be more receptive than other areas.” In the future he said he would like to offer milk glass bottles to be more economical and green — another way he is working toward the level of customer service he prides himself in. “We have personal service,” he said. “I try to deliver the best product I can find so I can best serve the customer. [That way] you can know your milkman and where your milk comes from.” For more information, call White at 362-6841 or visit the “Colby’s Creamery The Home Milkman” page on Facebook.
Colby White delivers dairy products fresh daily from Bordon Dairy. Photo courtesy of Colby White.
A trip to the sea The sixth-grade confirmation class at Canterbury United Methodist Church traveled to Epworth by the Sea on St. Simons Island, Ga. The confirmands spent time visiting a John Wesley museum, going to the beach and the lighthouse, and in song and worship. Susan Wilborn, the church’s director of children’s ministries, led the students. Photo courtesy of Stacy White.
Lane Park Rd
StopBloodCancer.com
May 2014 • A17
Food Showcase
Oli.O Specialty Oils & Balsamics By MADOLINE MARKHAM Hutton Fant wasn’t sure what she wanted to do when she graduated from The University of Alabama with a business degree in 2012. She knew she wanted to do something relational, and she knew she loved to cook. These days, she does both as she walks and talks olive oils and balsamic vinegars. Before opening her Mountain Brook Village shop in November, she embarked on a research journey. She talked with the owner of an oil and vinegar store in Jacksonville, Fla., where her family had purchased products, and studied up on the history and chemistry of the products. Now schooled in the industry, Fant said you can taste the difference between her products and storebought oils, which she said are often rancid when you buy them and leave a buttery texture in the back of your throat. Most importantly, she said the store-bought products don’t have much flavor. All products meet the UP standard, the highest standard of oils internationally, through its olives, production and bottling, all before being tested for quality in Australia. “The supplier we use gives a higher quality than [products from] Williams-Sonoma and Whole Foods,”
Fant said. “We want it to be a staple in people’s homes.” Oli.O’s products are sourced from Chile, Peru, South Africa, Spain, Australia, Italy, Portugal and Tunisia. In addition to oils, the store features 25 to 30 white and dark balsamic vinegars imported from Modena, Italy. Darks, she said, tend to be sweeter, while whites are thinner in consistency and better lend themselves to flavor infusions, like lemongrass mint. Inside the store, customers can also find gluten-free dark chocolate made with blood orange olive oil, a line of 24 pastas from a mom-and-pop business in Washington state, handcrafted almond butters made in Atlanta, and truffle oils — all the with the same integrity and freshness you will find in their oils and balsamics. Tasting is essential to shopping in Oli.O, especially if you want to differentiate between one of its 11 extra-virgin olive oils. The layout of the space is designed accordingly, with bottles lining the counters throughout the walls of the store. Fant encourages customers to “taste to their heart’s content” and provides pieces of Continental Bakery bread for dipping in sample cups. Oils and balsamics can be mixed to get a better feel for what a marinade or dressing might taste like. Fant said flavor-infused oils and balsamics make cooking easier,
MOUNTAIN BROOK VILLAGE
31
d oo llyw
Ca h
d Blv
Ho
ab
280
aR
d
Hutton Fant sells around 30 varieties of olive oils and balsamic vinegars from her Mountain Brook Village store, Oli.O. Photo by Madoline Markham.
eliminating adding something like lemon juice or an herb while only using natural ingredients. It’s especially advantageous if that ingredient is not in peak season. Plus, perhaps a little-known fact, whenever any other ingredient, like rosemary or garlic, is placed in olive oil, it causes the oil to go rancid quicker. Customers, beware: Don’t ask Fant for recipe recommendations if you are hungry. When it comes to oils, blood orange
is popular for salmon or over roasted vegetables, or even mixed in place of vegetable oil in boxed brownie mix, and the wild mushroom and sage is popular for risotto, orzo and flatbreads. Customers say they like the garlic oil over bread or pasta. The blackberry-ginger, a dark balsamic, is popular for marinades, and Fant recommends the fig, another dark balsamic, in stuffed bell peppers, over roasted sweet potatoes or over goat cheese. Fant likes to use the cilantro infused
2411 Montevallo Road 802-5756 oliooilsandbalsamics.com Monday-Friday, 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Saturday, 10 a.m.-4 p.m.
oil to make a marinade for fajitas and puts olive oil in her smoothies to take advantages of its antioxidants and being a “good” fat. “It makes going home and cooking easy,” she said. “I don’t need many seasonings or marinades. I am often content with just oil.” Fant also bakes with butter olive oil in place of butter itself. Most recently, she used it to make waffles that, once cooked, she drizzled with Vermont maple balsamic vinegar. Balsamics lend themselves to being versatile in the dessert realm beyond acting as syrup, too. Oli.O served the grapefruit white balsamic mixed with champagne for Valentine’s Day and recommends the lemongrass mint white balsamic in a mojito. The dark chocolate dark balsamic tastes just as good over ice cream and berries as it does over Brussels sprouts or warm Brie cheese, according to Fant. Gift bottles of oil, which make good hostess or bridesmaid gifts, can be purchased for around $10. Regular sizes include a small bottle for $12.99, medium for $16.99 or large — which is the size of a 750-mL wine bottle — for $29.99. Beyond its retail selection, Oli.O offers private tastings for garden clubs and other organizations, and the space can be rented out for dinner or other events.
A18 • May 2014
June 3 Republican Primary Candidate Guide
Village Living
U.S. House of Representatives Alabama District 6 Will Brooke 1. What is your background? I grew up here and attended the University of Alabama where I received degrees in business and law. I have spent my entire career in Birmingham and am a businessman. I have worked at Harbert Management Corporation for nearly 25 years and am chairman of our real estate services group and managing partner of our
venture capital funds. I like solving problems and have created hundreds of jobs in the Sixth District. My wife, Maggie, and I have been married for 34 years and have three adult children. We love our state and have been active in our church and other charitable and civic activities, such as the Boys & Girls Clubs, United Way and McWane Center.
2. What is the biggest issue facing the state in the upcoming year? Why aren’t there any construction cranes on Birmingham’s skyline? Economic development is essential to creating jobs and building a strong future for our city and state. That’s where I would focus. 3. What is the biggest issue facing Mountain Brook in the upcoming
year? This community is part of a special area, and has much in common with the other communities around us. We should work together to reduce costs, improve services and connectivity, and solve shared problems. I would work with our mayors and councils to find solutions and resources and move the ball forward.
Paul DeMarco 1. What is your background? My wife, Jacqueline, and I live in Homewood. I am a two-term state representative of House District 46, which includes portions of Homewood, Hoover, Mountain Brook and Vestavia Hills. I was born and raised in Alabama’s Sixth Congressional District. Jacqueline and I work here. We will raise our family here.
2. What is the biggest issue facing the state in the upcoming year? Washington is broken. Washington’s problems threaten the future of each person in Alabama and the Sixth District. Out-of-control deficit spending, the damage done to families and employers by Obamacare and federal regulations that threaten small and big business alike must all be addressed. As your state representative, I have always
worked to support our schools. I have worked with city leaders to improve infrastructure needs. That will continue when I go to Washington. 3. What is the biggest issue facing Mountain Brook in the upcoming year? I have been proud to represent the people of Mountain Brook in the state legislature. I grew up here.
The people of Mountain Brook, like every other community, want to continue to prosper. As your congressman, I will fight to protect small businesses from overreaching regulations that threaten jobs. I will support a balanced budget amendment. I will work to repeal Obamacare. We must focus on a limited government that helps rather than hinders the people.
Chad Mathis 1. What is your background? I’m a doctor and small business owner here in Birmingham. I’m typically asked on the campaign trail, “Why would a surgeon want to run for Congress?”, and I tell them it’s because I’m worried we are losing the American dream. I was the first in my family to graduate college and worked in the same
factory as my father to pay for that education. Hard work and sacrifice enabled me to earn my version of the American dream, but that dream is no longer attainable for many Alabamians. 2/3. What is the biggest issue facing our state/Mountain Brook in the upcoming year?
For the first time in a long time, the biggest issue facing our nation is the biggest issue we face here in both Alabama and in Mountain Brook. The ill effects of Obamacare are no longer reserved to an evening newscast or the headlines of a newspaper, but in fact are something affecting our families, friends and neighbors on a daily basis.
That’s why I have developed a 12-point plan to repeal and replace Obamacare with patient-centered, market-driven reforms. I hope you will join me in this fight to give healthcare back to the patient, opportunity back to small business, and help keep that American dream alive for hardworking Alabamians.
and continued high unemployment. Congress must repeal Obamacare and replace it with a patientcentered, market-based plan that puts people in charge of their health care decisions, establishes a national insurance pool for people who can’t get insurance or can’t afford it, and that eliminates the economic uncertainties faced by businesses. With 1 of 6 men age 25-54 unemployed, Congress should utilize
our vast God-given energy resources to create jobs and stimulate the economy. In one shale formation out West alone there are 3 trillion barrels of recoverable oil — three times what the entire world has used in 100 years — and the federal government owns almost 80 percent of it. The abundance of natural gas has resulted in cheaper energy that is driving a manufacturing boom that is benefiting Alabama.
3. What is the biggest issue facing Mountain Brook in the upcoming year? In the context of federal issues, the impact of Obamacare on Mountain Brook-based medical practices and businesses and the stagnant economy. Repeal and replace Obamacare and open up federal energy resources.
pastor of Shades Mountain Independent Church in Hoover. I also learned from him the value of hard work and commitment. Two years after marrying my wife Ginger, we started our own business in Pelham, Royal Bedding Manufacturing, Inc., in August of 1987. Since that time, I have
mastered the bedding industry and learned the challenges of owning a small business. For 26 years, I have had to balance a budget and make hard decisions on spending priorities. I also know what it’s like to face federal regulations on a daily basis. As a small business owner, it hasn’t always been easy, but the
values my father instilled me has allowed us to persevere and live out the American dream. And it’s that dream that I feel is under attack and is the reason I am running. My wife and I also own a family cattle farm in Wilsonville and are members of the Cattlemen’s Association of Alabama.
Gary Palmer 1. What is your background? I’ve worked for small business, two major engineering companies and, for the last 24 years, led the Alabama Policy Institute, a public policy think tank ranked as Alabama’s most influential conservative group. 2. What is the biggest issue facing the state in the upcoming year? There are two huge issues: the impact of Obamacare on businesses
Tom Vigneulle 1. What is your background? I come from a background of service. My father was Dr. Richard (Dick) Vigneulle. He was the executive vice president of City Federal Savings & Loan and president of Service Corporation. He later answered the call to the ministry, becoming the founding
Requests for responses to candidates Scott Beason and Robert Shattuck were not received by deadline.
StopBloodCancer.com
May 2014 • A19
A20 • May 2014
June 3 Republican Primary Candidate Guide
Village Living
District 46 Representative David Faulkner 1. What is your background? I am an attorney, and I have represented and defended individuals, small businesses and corporations in various civil matters for the past 20 years. I have been married to my wife, Nancy, for 16 years, and we have been blessed with three children. I am actively involved in my church and community, teaching Sunday
Justin Barkley 1. What is your background? My wife, Melissa, and I both grew up in Hoover, where we met in high school. We now live in Homewood, raising our four children, who attend elementary school at Shades Cahaba and preschool at Canterbury United Methodist. We’ve been married 11 years and attend Riverchase United
Steve French
1. What is your background? My wife, Betsy, and I have been married for 25 years and have raised all four of our daughters, Alex, 23, Sally, 20, Lizzie, 17, and Virginia, 12, in District 46, where they all attended public school. We are also very active members of Canterbury United Methodist Church. In addition to my family and church, I have dedicated myself to my
school, coaching kids, and being active and a leader in the Chamber of Commerce. 2. What is the biggest issue facing the state? While I believe Gov. [Robert] Bentley has done a good job in turning Alabama’s economy in the right direction, we must get it running on all cylinders again. Because Jefferson County is the economic center of Alabama, when the state’s economy performs well, Methodist. My parents didn’t go to college, but I earned scholarships to Harvard and Alabama Law School. I am a practicing attorney representing employers and small businesses. 2. What is the biggest issue facing the state in the upcoming year? Recently, corrupt politicians of both parties have made headlines. Public service should be a noble calling,
we do well, and when the state’s economy performs poorly, it affects us directly. I believe that targeted tax incentives, an emphasis on education and workforce development, and creating an overall pro-business atmosphere are the cure to the economic ills we face. 3. What is the biggest issue facing Mountain Brook in the upcoming year? We have great schools within this district, and we must ensure their not a career path. I have never run for office before. I will support term limits and a lifetime ban on lobbying by former legislators. I will be guided by my values and principles, rooted in my faith, and always do what’s best for our community, not for special interests. 3. What is the biggest issue facing Mountain Brook in the upcoming year?
business pursuits and to serving the people of Alabama. I have been an active Republican all of my adult life and served part of Shelby and Jefferson County as state senator from 1998-2010.
our state. I have always believed that our problems can be solved here at home, and I will stand strong in my opposition to “one size fits all” solutions, like Obamacare, that Washington tries to force on us.
2. What is the biggest issue facing the state in the upcoming year? I think the greatest issue facing our state will be ongoing and stronger intrusion by the federal government into our lives, our businesses and
3. What is the biggest issue facing Mountain Brook in the upcoming year? The biggest issue facing Mountain Brook is maintaining its first-class education system, as well as saving
*Requests to candidate Pamela Blackmore-Jenkins for question responses were not received by deadline.
Voted
BEST OF MOUNTAIN BROOK Village Living 2013 Best Mexican Food
continued success. Everyone who lives in Birmingham is affected at some point by massive traffic congestion, so we must address the transportation problems that exist throughout House District 46 and Jefferson County. We must demand that the people who are elected or appointed to represent us in government are ethical and are serving for the right reasons. We can start with Water Works Board reform legislation being passed.
We lived as newlyweds in Park Lane apartments and, like you, value our communities’ safe neighborhoods, strong schools, first-rate retailers and restaurants, vibrant churches, and great parks and community activities. As your representative, I will provide strong, energetic leadership to ensure that we remain a great place to live, work, play, worship and raise a family. money for future improvements. With my professional financial experience helping municipalities find and save needed money, I can effectively help educational leaders do the same; therefore, preserving Mountain Brook’s first-class education system, and keeping the area desirable to current and future residents, as well as the business owners that provide jobs and influence the area.
StopBloodCancer.com
May 2014 • A21
Sports Spartan baseball team is area champ With back-to-back wins against Vestavia Hills High School, Coach Lee Gann and his Varsity Spartans went 6-0 in the area to clinch the 2014 Area Championship in April. The Spartans also swept their opponents in March to win the 2014 Mountain Brook Sports Corporation Spring Break Tournament. The team went on to play Gardendale High School at home in the first round of the AHSAA Baseball Playoffs in April. The Mountain Brook High School Baseball Team celebrates its win over Vestavia Hills to claim the area title.
Sixth-grade OTM finish second strong season The Spartans sixth-grade OTM basketball team had a record of 52-2 over the last two years. The team won the Jingle Bell Jam in sixth grade (runner-up in fifth grade), North Shelby regular season and tournament in both
fifth and sixth grade, and the OTM regular season and tournament in both fifth and sixth grade for a total of nine titles. The team is coached by Chris Boehm and Justin Strong.
Front row: Ben Savage, Alex Belt, Tripp Law, Logan Brewer. Back row: Crawford Golden, William O’Leary, Holt Bashinsky, Peyton Haley, Paulie Stramaglia. Photo courtesy of Donna Savage.
A22 • May 2014
Village Living
To market, to market Previous to this summer, these were the closest farmers markets to Crestline Village.
1
3.2 mile s
s ile
m 3.2
d oR
Mo
es
il 5.6 m
all ev nt
2
31
280
Urban Cookhouse owners Andrea and David Snyder, pictured, along with Market Manager Laura Powell, have been working with city government and Crestline merchants to bring a farmers market to Crestline. Photo by Madoline Markham.
MARKET
from page A1 near their storefronts. Urban Cookhouse makes no profit off the market. Since 2010, residents in Homewood have built relationships with a network of farmers from an 85-mile radius of SoHo through a Saturday morning market held by Urban Cookhouse. That market started with six vendors, who in turn introduced other local growers they knew to the market. Today 65 vendors are on Urban’s vendor list. Some will come for the full season and others just for a few events. “I think they enjoy providing fresh produce for their customers and forming relationships with them just like we form relationships with growers,” Powell said. Many of these vendors also now sell their wares at a market at The Summit on Thursday evenings, and Powell is recruiting some of them to come to Crestline on Wednesdays.
The Mountain Brook Chamber of Commerce and Crestline merchants have been working to ensure the market will promote local businesses as well. Lamb’s Ears co-owner Julie Howell heads a committee of merchants who will approve vendors to ensure that none are competing with Crestline merchants. “I think the fact that [the market] will be during the summertime, which is a slow time for the village anyway, can be a plus as long as everyone is working together,” Howell said. “Hopefully this will bring not only our usual neighborhood customers but also some outside forces who will visit the merchants also and see what special things they have. We hope the market enhances the merchants and the merchants will enhance the market.” Howell noted that most merchants are open until 5 p.m., and that the event will be a perfect time for people to buy vegetables and then eat at a Crestline restaurant. In addition, Mountain Brook restaurants will hold cooking demonstrations, and
1. Pepper Place Market 2829 2nd Ave S 2. The Homewood Market 2850 19th St S 3. The Summit Market 214 Summit Boulevard
3
the Chamber will host a booth that features a different Crestline merchant each week. Merchants will have the option to purchase tables from the farmers market as well. Over the past several months, Powell has been working with not just Crestline merchants but also with City Manager Sam Gaston, the City Council, the Mountain Brook Chamber of Commerce, Police Department and Emmet O’Neal Library in honing the location and day for the market. She said everyone has been extremely helpful to find the best solution. These parties and residents alike hope the market will continue to be rooted in the Crestline community. Powell said she recognizes that Crestline is already a strong community but that the market could make it even stronger. Graham agreed. “I think [the market] will add to the wonderful community spirit we have here and would be just one more layer of what makes Crestline such a great place to live,” she said.
AWARE
from page A1 remove from the community. In February, a group of Mountain Brook parents came together to form a group to address suicide awareness and its multifaceted roots. Aware’s mission is that “not one more in our community is lost due to substance abuse, depression, struggles, despair or suicide.” Thus far, the group has hosted professionals and community members to speak about suicide, depression and other related topics. As one of the group’s members and first speakers, Lulu Wilson Null hopes that through Aware’s efforts, parents and children will be better equipped to act when someone close to them shows signs of mental illness. She wants people to talk about it. She wants people to get help. “You cannot ingrain enough the signs and symptoms to parents,” she said. After years of battling depression and bipolar disorder, the Mountain Brook mom of four decided to speak publicly about her experience for the first time in March through blogging at lulunull13.wordpress.com. “I was ashamed, I had never told my friends,” she said. “So many people are suffering, and they don’t know where to go. They don’t want to tell their spouse, and they don’t want to tell their friends. Everyone is supposed to be happy all the time.” Null said the response to her blog posts has been phenomenal. For her, talking is a way to take out the stigma so people want to ask for help and get issues such as hers out in the open. She hopes others will open up, too. “In this community, we are all trying to be perfect and keep up, and everyone is hurting inside,” she said. “We want people to know they are not alone.” Aware leaders including Bromberg are seeking to connect people to resources that can help those who are suffering. Bromberg said he wants people to come out to learn about warning signs of not just suicide but also all the issues that can lead to it. He said there are answers about how to cope. “At least if they could get the information, they will be armed and prepared to spot [these signs] and take action that I would have done if I had had [this information],” Bromberg said. “I think [Aware] will be successful if the community says, ‘We want to hear this,’ and they come out to hear our speakers who have stories and information.” To learn more about Aware, find the group on Facebook. The group is planning workshop-style events for this summer.
StopBloodCancer.com
May 2014 • A23
Community concerns defined Mountain Brook residents want more open discussion about drugs, mental health By MADOLINE MARKHAM
What do you think is the most important issue for our community to address? 30
25
20
Eating disorders
Other
Bullying
Depression
Suicide
22.5%
Self-injury/ cutting
1.6%
16.2%
0
0.5%
10.5%
5
15.7%
10
Stress and anxiety
Results are from a survey of 191 people on villagelivingonline.com.
26.7%
15
6.3%
Mountain Brook residents feel that substance abuse is the most important issue for the community to address publicly, followed by stress and anxiety and suicide, according to a recent survey. Last month, 191 people, 85 percent of whom live in Mountain Brook, responded to a survey conducted by community awareness group Aware on Village Living’s website about areas of concern for the community and how Aware can help address them. The survey results indicate five issues to be of the greatest concern. Aware leader Catherine McCarty summarized the results for the group as listed below. 1. Substance abuse. Twenty-seven percent said this was the most important issue. Specific comments spoke of parents who allow drinking at home, the growing reach of the problem and how substance abuse is a symptom of depression and other mental illness. 2. Stress and anxiety. Twenty-three percent said this was the most important issue. According to comments, there is too much stress imposed by parents as well as the community to be perfect. 3. Suicide. Sixteen percent said this was the most important issue. Comments indicate that there is a strong desire to know signs and symptoms of suicidal thoughts and especially
where to get help. 4. Depression. Sixteen percent said this was the most important issue. People indicated that they want to know signs and symptoms of depression, what to do about it and, most frequently, where to get help. Comments also indicated that many recognize this as the root of the other problems. 5. Bullying. Eleven percent said this was the most important issue. Most comments did not provide specific guidance on how they would like this issue to be addressed, but some mentioned that life is hard for kids who don’t fit the “Mountain Brook mold.” Other survey question responses indicated that the community would like Aware to provide resources and education regarding these issues, especially symptoms of mental health and how and where to get help; continue to increase awareness about these issues and open venues for dialogue; and get the schools more involved. Specifically, 75 percent said they want Aware to share information through speakers at schools, 59 percent said through Facebook, 49 percent through local counselors and other professionals, 49 percent through speakers and panel events and 44 percent through an Aware website. Aware organizers said they plan to use this data to guide their efforts going forward.
Substance abuse
A24 • May 2014
Village Living
StopBloodCancer.com
Village Living
SECTION
B
May 2014 • B1
School House B2 Community B10 Faith B19 Calendar B20
Graduating seniors reflect on high school experiences By OLIVIA BURTON As May 22 approaches, the next step awaits members of the Mountain Brook High School Class of 2014. But first, they will reflect on what led them to this point in life. “Every class has a personality,” Principal Amanda Hood said. “This senior class’ personality set a very focused tone for our school, and for that I’ve been thankful … It is full of stellar individuals who love their school, really care about each other, and have a tremendous work ethic” A few seniors have stood out among their peers due to their strong leadership and contributions to the school. In addition to being in the top 5 percent of the class, Everette Dawkins is the co-president of Mountain Brook’s Key Club and works at local non-profit Alabama Forever. Recently, she was accepted to The University of Alabama’s Fellows program. Although she has a lot to look forward to in the future, she said she would miss the spirit of MBHS. “Mountain Brook [High School] is unique because everyone can do their own thing without feeling like they aren’t ‘cool enough’ to fit in, if that means working hard at school, being a good athlete or getting involved in choir or newspaper,” she said. SGA president Ben Jackson plans to major in either history or business. His experience
Mountain Brook High School seniors Ben Jackson, Daniel Bolus, Anne Peyton Baker, Frank Phillips and Everette Dawkins will graduate later this month. Photo by Olivia Burton.
in student government, he said, has strongly affected his perception of the Mountain Brook student body by allowing him to interact with leaders from other schools around the state. “[Our] student body is remarkably cohesive for a high school of its size,” he said. “What you find with Mountain Brook is that when you have an event, everyone’s together and of the same mindset.” Jackson cited Relay for Life, blood drives, food drives and sporting events as a few of the
ways that students can become involved in the community. Several weeks before graduation, the top 5 percent of the senior class votes among themselves to select three students to speak at graduation. This year, they elected Anne Peyton Baker, Frank Phillips and Daniel Bolus. Baker will attend Vanderbilt University next year and plans to major in biomedical engineering with a minor in Spanish. She was event director for this year’s Relay for Life and
plays on the school softball team. “My involvement with Relay for Life especially gave me an interest in helping people with terminal diseases, and I feel like biomedical engineering is a concrete way for me to do that,” she said. Phillips will also be attending Vanderbilt University, and he plans to major in engineering. He is a member of the popular men’s a cappella group ABOG (A Bunch of Guys). Although engineering is known for being a tough major, Phillips said he is confident that MBHS has prepared him for college. “If anything, I want to express how thankful I am to all of the people that have helped me,” he said about his upcoming speech. After taking both AP Biology and AP Physics this year, Daniel Bolus has been inspired to pursue biomedical engineering in college. He serves as drum major in the MBHS marching band and is involved in Interact and the school newspaper, The Sword & Shield. “From my experience as a drum major, I have learned how supportive the Mountain Brook community is both within and outside of MBHS,” he said. “I would not have been able to accomplish anything without their support and passion, whether from band parents, fellow students, or anyone in the audience who watches and cheers for the band during halftime.” Baker, Bolus and Phillips will speak at the graduation ceremony on May 22 in the Pete Hanna Center at Samford University.
B2 • May 2014
Village Living
School House
BWF raise funds for Relay for Life
BWF family night
Kimberly, Scott, Charlie and Henry Wilder enjoy BWF Family Night.
By KATHLEEN WOODRY
BWF students help provide dinner and fellowship to the patients and families of Hope Lodge.
By KATHLEEN WOODRY Brookwood Forest Elementary students, staff and families participated in multiple activities to raise monies and awareness for the American Cancer Society’s annual Relay for Life campaign.
Fifth-grade students, families and teachers made two trips to the Hope Lodge, a facility that provides homelike accommodations and resources to eligible cancer patients being treated in Birmingham. BWF families and teachers provided dinner, desserts
and fellowship for the evening to the patients and families at the lodge. The theme for both nights was Favorite Casserole/Potluck Night. Students and teachers also hosted a blood drive and lemonade stands and sold BWF Ranger Relay for Life T-shirts.
Hundreds of families gathered recently for Brookwood Forest Family Night. The halls were filled with smiles, hugs and laughter as families visited classrooms to talk with teachers and see firsthand projects and schoolwork. The barbecue dinner by Dreamland was once again the highlight of the night. The gym was transformed into a dining hall for the Brookwood Forest family to eat, listen to Boosterthon DJs and fellowship. The night was made possible by Leslie Armstrong, Heather Alexander, Laura Brown, Elise Frohsin, EV Gunn, Christy Lee, Susan Sellers, Rula Awad, the BWF custodians, Christy Christian and Nathan Pitner. Whole Foods donated flowers for the table decorations and Dreamland BBQ catered the meal, which BWF families preordered meals online.
This Spring at The Perfect Graduation Gift Giles & Brother Personalized Cuff Order yours today! Follow us on Instagram @shopetcjewelry Giles & Brother Skinny Nailhead Cuff $55 Personalize up to 8 characters
2726 Cahaba Road • 871-6747 • www.shopetcjewelry.com • Mon-Sat 10-5
StopBloodCancer.com
May 2014 • B3
Parenting and Family with Dr. Dale Wisely
What keeps kids away from substance abuse? In a recent issue of the scholarly us to anticipate those problems and journal School Psychology Review to parent accordingly. It is about not is a study by researchers on factors just reacting when bad things happen, in the lives of teenagers that conbut parenting with an eye toward tribute to the likelihood teenagers prevention. will stay away from substance }}Authoritative parenting style. abuse. The article includes a useful A number of studies have looked at review of research to date. It conthree parenting styles: permissive, siders the following factors, which authoritative, and authoritarian. PerDr. Dale Wisely the researchers call “assets.” missive parenting means positive, There are two aspects of school life most supportive feedback, but very little parental clearly associated with the likelihood that teen- control or monitoring. The authoritarian style agers will avoid the abuse of drugs and alcohol: is characterized by lots of parental control and caring relationships and meaningful participa- monitoring, but an absence of positive, suption. According to research, when students portive relationships. The authoritative style have positive perceptions of school, feel they is characterized by a high level of involvement are cared about at school and feel emotionally by parents, including both positive emotional close to their teachers, they are less prone to be support, and clear and relatively strict rules, involved in substance abuse. This is shown by well enforced. This style is the winner. It leads research to be a particularly powerful factor. to fewer substance abuse problems in youth And when students are meaningfully involved than do the other styles. in school and enjoy school-related activities, }} High monitoring and low permissiveness. they are less likely to use drugs and alcohol. Regarding peer factors, as you might guess, Teenagers of parents who closely monitor their young people are more likely to abstain from whereabouts (and their “who-abouts” and alcohol and drugs when their peer groups sup- “what-abouts”!) and whose parents, again, have clear and well-enforced rules, are less likely to port nonuse. A positive sense of community and per- abuse substances. This, as is true with most ceived neighborhood safety are among the research in this area, goes against the attitude community factors associated with nonuse of of “supervised” underage drinking or a kind of fatalistic acceptance of the inevitability of teen substances. It keeps coming back to this blend in par- drinking. Parents who take an attitude that teenenting: Clearly communicated and courageous age drinking is inevitable and then supervise rules, well enforced and firmly situated on a underage drinking often find that supervised drinking actually leads to more unsupervised foundation of love and positive regard. What about family factors? Let’s consider drinking, not less. these one at a time. }} Positive relationship with parents. This }} Clear communication. We have emphasized in our efforts via the Mountain Brook Anti-Drug Coalition the need for all of us, as parents, to clearly express to our children our beliefs and our family policies about underage drinking and drug use. The communication of these beliefs and policies makes a difference. Obviously, in order to clearly communicate them, we have to have a clear idea of what they are. }} Proactive family management. This requires parents to accept the reality that their own children may become involved in highrisk behavior, such as substance use. It requires
goes back to the nature of that “authoritative” parenting style. It IS about authority — about rules and prohibitions — but equally as defining of that more successful style is the maintenance of positive, supportive, loving relationships. It keeps coming back to this magical blend in parenting: clearly communicated and courageous rules, well enforced, and firmly situated on a foundation of love, respect and positive regard. Dr. Dale Wisely is Director of Student Services at Mountain Brook Schools and has been a child and adolescent psychologist for 30 years.
Celebrating 100
Melanie Hennessy’s first-grade class dressed as if they were 100 years old.
By LISA STONE Crestline Elementary first-graders celebrated the 100th day of school by incorporating the number 100 into their curriculum. The children took pictures of themselves using the “Age Yourself” app, and then wrote about and created a PhotoStory of what life would be like when they are 100 years old. They also brought 100 items in a baggie and
sorted their items into groups; had a “100th Day Museum,” where they walked around the room to see how everyone sorted out their objects; wrote about what they would do if they had $100; and made a class book of all the things they’ve been told seemingly 100 times, such as clean your room or wipe your feet at the door. To top if off, the children arrived school dressed as if they were 100 years old.
B4 • May 2014
The Bend’s Got Talent
Village Living
Bringing history to life By CATHERINE BODNAR Every year the entire Cherokee Bend community looks forward to seeing the second-graders bring history to life. Recently, each second-grader completed a project-based learning study on famous people. The study included reading a variety of genres, Internet research, publishing a piece of writing, and creating and decorating a model and a technology presentation about a famous person. The students used available technology resources to present their learning in a digital format. To culminate the study, the students had fun dressing in costume to portray their subjects in a musical performance.
Front row: Weathers Wolsfelt (Jackie Robinson), Connor Hughes (John F. Kennedy), Annie Gregory (Sally Ride) and Ava Gillis (Mia Hamm). Middle row: Mastin Gagliano (Jim Henson), Langley Johnson (Betsy Ross), Greer Thompson (Rachel Carson), Elizabeth Faulkner (Eleanor Roosevelt) and Callie Kent (Annie Oakley). Back row: Teacher Melinda Curtis, Sam Scofield (Milton Hershey), John Littleton (Albert Einstein), Drew Bodnar (Daniel Boone), Baker Gasque (Elvis Presley) and Henry Hufham (Buffalo Bill Cody).
Biography day at CES Christoper Alexander, winner of the People’s Choice Award
By LISA STONE Amanda Johnson’s thirdgrade class at Crestline Elementary was recently honored with the presence of many famous people. From past presidents to movie stars and movie makers to pop icons and athletes, students shared important and interesting information about their biographical characters.
By CATHERINE GASQUE The third annual Cherokee Bend School The Bend’s Got Talent was held in March at Mountain Brook High School’s Fine Arts Center. Performing to a sold-out crowd were acts from tap to tumbling, and saxophone to singing. Third-grader Christopher Alexander took home the coveted People’s Choice Award for his beats as “Drummer Boy.” Other winners were Anna Bella Foster, Connor Hughes and Reid Ramsbacher, as well as Chandler Vargas, Emma Sanders, Sarah Welles Edwards, Clara Howell and Margaret Nichols. The night was topped off with a Faculty Finale that was fun for all.
Amanda Johnson’s thirdgrade class dresses as celebrities.
Smart Kid.
Smart Parent. Summer Breakthrough
Smart Call.
Experience the Tutoring Club difference. Our individualized programs focus on the areas where your child is struggling, resulting in more learning in less time at a higher academic level. Guaranteed.
Cahaba Heights 968-5151 Inverness 981-7155
STUDY SKILLS
ACT/SAT PREP MATH • READING • WRITING
StopBloodCancer.com
Girls on the Run hold 5K
May 2014 • B5
Hearts for a cause
MBE Principal Belinda Treadwell and the MBE Lancer League Nobles with Ward Williams, executive director of Backpack Buddies, and Stephanie Grissom, program director, who accepted the donation on behalf of the organization.
By HILARY ROSS Mountain Brook Elementary donated more than $5,000 from its Hearts for a Cause proceeds to Backpack
MBE student Ellie Thomas and her running buddy/mother Paige participate in the 2013 Girls on the Run 5K.
By HILARY ROSS Girls on the Run (GOTR) instills self-respect and empowers young girls to make healthy choices through running. This spring, GOTR includes many teams from the Mountain Brook community as well as other areas of Birmingham. The two GOTR seasons are made possible by proceeds from a 5K that is open to the entire community and welcomes runners of all levels. The race will be held May 10 at 8 a.m. at Marconi Park in downtown Birmingham. Each girl in the program has a running buddy over the age of 16 to accompany and encourage her during the race. The chiptimed race will give out age group awards. More information on how to register can be found at girlsontherunbham.org.
Buddies, a program that reaches elementary children who are on free or reduced lunches in public schools. The money donated will be used to help feed the children over weekends and holidays.
Corgill named state Teacher of the Year finalist Cherokee Bend Elementary fourth-grade teacher Ann Marie Corgill has been named one of the Sweet 16 finalists for Alabama Teacher of the Year. The eight elementary and eight secondary teachers were selected from more than 150 candidates statewide. The field will soon be narrowed down to the “Final Four,” with the Teacher of the Year winner being revealed at a ceremony hosted by the Alabama State Department of Education on May 14.
Fourth-grade teacher Ann Marie Corgill reads to students.
Dorm Season Has Arrived!
2832 Culverr Rd • 8879.8278 79 8278 • Mon. - Sat
B6 • May 2014
Village Living
MBHS ranked nationally as a challenging school The Leadership Mountain Brook class of 2015 gathers for a picture.
New Leadership Mountain Brook class announced
The students pictures are 2014 MBHS seniors who were named National Merit Finalists.
Mountain Brook High School has been named one of America’s Most Challenging High Schools by The Washington Post. Only seven high schools in Alabama were ranked, and Mountain Brook was ranked third in the state, right behind Jefferson County International Baccalaureate and Loveless Academic Magnet Program. America’s Most Challenging High Schools is a comprehensive look at public high schools across the nation and each school’s level of commitment to offering
challenging college-level course work to all students. This year, just 9 percent of the approximately 22,000 U.S. public high schools reached that standard and earned placement on the list. To determine the ranking, The Washington Post compiled the list based on the number of Advanced Placement, International Baccalaureate or Advanced International Certificate of Education tests given at a school each year, divided by the number of seniors who graduated that year.
After undergoing an application and interview process, 22 rising juniors and seniors were selected to participate in Leadership Mountain Brook as the class of 2015. They are: Adele Bird, Sophie Bluestein, Sophie Brint, Jim Crosswhite, Lucy Gardner, Carter Hancock, Emilie Harwell, Tara Henderson, Maggie Hightower, George Keller, Annie Leonelli, Charley Lewis, Katie Littleton, Mary Lee Livingston, Anna
Matthews, Katherine Grace Moore, Courtney Niemann, Julia Bell Pope, Benjamin Rosenthal, Hailey Smith, Wells Thomas and Robert Waudby. The yearlong program is a partnership with the City of Mountain Brook and the Mountain Brook Chamber of Commerce. The new inductees and current class gathered for a welcome breakfast at the high school library on April 9.
Band students rank top in state Stephanie Webster and Reese Williams placed in the All-State Red Band, the highest of three AllState high school bands, in Huntsville in April. In addition, Truman Evans from the MBJH Band for won the baritone sax position in the All-State Middle School Band. Reese placed fourth chair in the Red Band. Stephanie placed second on piccolo and had the option to go into the Red Band on flute, which
she accepted. These two students performed and competed in the state solo festival, a first for MBHS students in the past eight years. Students must first have made one of the All-State bands to be eligible to perform in the state solo festival. Reese was among seven students who advanced to the finals competition and placed fifth in the state.
StopBloodCancer.com
May 2014 • B7
Leadership group works to improve city By MADOLINE MARKHAM A group of Mountain Brook High School juniors and seniors plans to not leave their city as they found it. For the past few months, the students have been working on city improvement projects as part of the Leadership Mountain Brook class. Through a partnership between the Mayor’s office, MBHS and the Chamber of Commerce, students spent their first semester learning from city officials about how the City of Mountain Brook works, and this semester they applied what they learned. The class is taught by MBHS teacher Amber Benson and Hannon Davidson of the Chamber. Through the project proposal preparation process, each group worked with city officials and businesses to create their plans, facing real-life challenges like working within a budget and waiting on people to return phone calls. Some groups presented project proposals to the Mountain Brook City Council on April 14, and others are going through other city channels to put their projects in motion. The projects are as follows:
City Flag Lindsey Kirk, Haley Fenn, Brooke Littleton, Jordan Tynes Following a lead that Mayor Terry Oden had mentioned his desire for a city flag, this group took note of how such a flag would act as a recognizable unifying symbol for the community that it, unlike surrounding communities, lacked. The group worked with Graham Nash at Mountain Brook Sporting Goods and an artist on a design that would showcase the area’s natural features and community values. They arrived at a simple design with a majestic tree and the words “Mountain Brook” printed above it and “Est. 1942” below it. The tree, group members said, represents the natural beauty of the city as well as a family tree in how the community is close knit. They plant to hang one flag at each of 11 locations
on which they plan to affix a weather-resistant plaque with the wildlife information. Pictures and facts on the sign will be presented in a way that’s easy for visitors to read.
Police Department Exercise Equipment Griffin Cope, Louis Wade, Jake Ferguson
Joseph Davidson, center, holds a sample for a new exhibit sign for Jemison Trail, while Turner Hull and Frances Carson display a book they are using to find inspiration for new signs as a part of the group’s Leadership Mountain Brook project. Photo by Madoline Markham.
where flagpoles are already in place, including all six schools and the Municipal Complex. “It’s cool to think it could be around [for many years] and that everyone will get to enjoy it,” Lindsey Kirk said.
Jemison Lighting Christina Harmon, Madeline Marx, William Tynes One night while driving on Mountain Brook Parkway, Christina Harmon noticed a runner holding a flashlight as he traversed along Jemison Trail. The incident confirmed her group’s idea that lighting needed enhancing on the trail. On a subsequent trip to the trail, group members noticed that some lights were rusted and overgrown with ivy, some had new lights and some were old, some were yellow and some white. In a meeting with the Friends of Jemison Trail, the group decided it made the most sense not to add new lighting so as not to disturb wildlife.
Since then, they have been looking into how the city can amend its contract with Alabama to replace the existing fixtures to make them more efficient, consistent and aesthetically pleasing.
Jemison Exhibit Signs Joseph Davidson, Frances Carson, Turner Hull In order to enhance people’s experience on the Jemison Trail, this group is looking to replace and enhance damaged exhibit signs about wildlife along the trail. “Especially with the new [Grand Bohemian] hotel and visitors, it will be an important addition,” Joseph Davidson said. Parks and Recreation Director Shanda Williams gave them a book, Jemison Park: Sketches of a Streamside Park, to draw information from about wildlife along the trail. The Parks and Rec department will make the 10 new wooden signs like the existing ones
When the Leadership Mountain Brook class toured the Mountain Brook Police Department earlier in the year, some members noticed the equipment in its exercise room was old and outdated. After discussions with Police Chief Ted Cook, the group worked with Wright Exercise Equipment, which also sold the equipment for the MBHS field house, to arrange a discounted price and select a collection of multi-function machines. Now they are looking for individuals or businesses to help sponsor part of the $11,000 cost of the equipment and are considering asking the city for money if they are unable to secure it through private donors.
Blue Light System Jake Fleisher, John Buchanan, Anne Merrick Hamilton, Mary Parker Wetzler Having seen “blue light” emergency call boxes on college campuses, this group decided to bring them to Mountain Brook. Meeting with the Mountain Brook Police Department, they learned that such call boxes, with a direct connection to the department, would decrease response times, as calls made from cell phones at parks are sometimes routed to other police dispatches. They plan to install the call boxes at Mountain Brook Athletic Complex behind the high school and Rathmell Sports Park as well as the new Cahaba River Park. The group is hoping to present to the city for them to incorporate it in next year’s city budget.
Making People Happy For 22 Years, It’s An Institution! Voted
BEST OF MOUNTAIN BROOK Village Living 2013
Most friendly service
224 Country Club Park 871-8435
Follow us on Facebook or on the web Oteystavern.com
Live music every Fri. and Sat. night starting @ 9pm.
B8 • May 2014
Village Living
Scouts earn Tom Pearce
Thomas “Tom” Butler Pearce Jr. earned his Eagle rank in September. He was recognized for his achievement at a ceremony on Feb. 9. Pearce is a member of Boy Scout Troop 63 at Canterbury United Methodist Church under the leadership of Harold Wells Jr. For his Eagle Scout project, Pearce built two basketball courts with retaining nets, repaired and modified a fence, and landscaped the court area on the playground of PreSchool Partners, a program dedicated to preparing inner city preschool children and their parents for kindergarten in Birmingham City Schools. During his time in Boy Scouts, Pearce held leadership positions such as quartermaster, assistant patrol leader and twice as patrol leader. He was elected to the Order of the Arrow
in 2008 and earned the World Conservation Award in 2009. Pearce earned 23 merit badges and spent 43 nights camping as a Boy Scout. A senior at Mountain Brook High School, Pearce runs for the indoor and outdoor varsity track team. He also throws javelin for the varsity team. He is a member of the Interact Club and serves this year as logistics chairman for Relay for Life. Pearce is a certified lifeguard and works as a junior counselor for Camp Mac, a summer camp in the Cheaha Mountains. Pearce is the son of Kathy and Mike Pearce and the grandson of Kathryn Jeffers and Richard Jeffers Jr. of Birmingham and the late Frances Pearce and the late Thomas Pearce Jr. of Greenville, S.C. His brother Robertson Pearce earned his Eagle rank in 2007.
Carson Crowe
John Tully
Carson Crowe was recently recognized in a Court of Honor ceremony for achieving the highest rank in Boy Scouts. Crowe, a member of Boy Scout Troop 63, earned his Eagle Scout rank after completing all requirements for the top scouting honor and completion of his service project. As part of his requirements to reach Eagle, Crowe earned 35 merit badges, 11 of which were required. During his time in Scouts, Crowe served in leadership positions including patrol leader, patrol quartermaster, historian, librarian and scribe. He also received the Order of the Arrow Award, which is the honor society of Scouts. For Crowe’s Eagle project, he planned and built a wooden deck with benches for the residents at St. Martins in the Pines. The deck allows for the residents to comfortably enjoy the outdoors and the raised gardens. Crowe, the son of Derrill and Cameron, joined Boy Scouts in the spring of fifth grade and is currently a senior at Mountain Brook High School.
John Austin Tully has achieved the Eagle Scout rank, the highest rank in Boy Scouts. He is a member of Troop 86 at St Luke’s Episcopal Church, under the leadership of David Millhouse. For his Eagle Scout project, Tully led a book drive and built bookshelves for Preschool Partners, a non-profit organization formed to provide quality preschool education to at-risk children and job skills training to their parents. While attending Mountain Brook High School, Tully has been a member of the MBHS baseball team, chamber choir and Ambassadors Club. He is currently president of A Bunch of Guys (ABOG), an all male a cappella group. He is the son of Amy and Scott Tully and grandson of Dr. and Mrs. Albert J. Tully of Mountain Brook and Dr. and Mrs. John A. Heetderks of Atlanta.
StopBloodCancer.com
May 2014 • B9
Eagle rank Anderson and William Smith
Anderson Smith
Brothers William Marshall and Anderson Riley Smith earned the rank of Eagle Scout from the Vulcan District Eagle Board in October. They were both recognized at a Court of Honor in February and are members of Boy Scout Troop 53 at St. Peter’s Anglican Church under the leadership of George B. Elliott. For his Eagle project, Anderson replaced a footbridge for a trail at Ruffner Mountain Nature Preserve in Birmingham. Because of its location near the pavilion, this bridge is often used by walkers, joggers and hikers, as well as families and the elderly. The new bridge was lengthened and widened to 5½ feet, allowing more than one person to cross it at a time. Railings and a bench were added on one side so visitors can enjoy the surrounding nature of the mountain. For his Eagle project, Marshall completed a conservation project for Ruffner involving two test mining sites on the mountain. He worked to extend the length of time vernal pools are full in the mines to increase the benefits to forest life and allow eggs enough time to hatch. While full, spotted salamanders, bullfrogs and green frogs use the pools to lay
Parker Hartline
William Smith
their eggs. The pools are also an important water source for several types of owls, overwintering birds and other forest animals. Within Troop 53, Anderson held the position of patrol leader and earned 24 merit badges, and Marshall held the positions of patrol leader and assistant senior patrol leader and earned 24 merit badges. Both attended two high adventure trips, sailing as crew members aboard the Ciganka in Abaco, Bahamas, and at Philmont Scout Ranch in Cimmeron, N.M., hiking 75 miles with fellow Scouts. As a junior at Mountain Brook High School, Marshall runs cross-country, indoor track and outdoor track and was selected to the 2013 All-Metro Boys Cross Country Team. Also a junior, Anderson plays on the football team and runs outdoor track at MBHS. Both are active members of St. Luke’s Episcopal Church youth group and BigTime Ministries. Anderson and Marshall are the sons of Helen Catherine and Clinton Smith and the grandsons of Mr. and Mrs. William N. Clark and Dr. Henley J. Smith Jr. and the late Mrs. Jane A. Smith.
Parker A. Hartline, a member of Boy Scout Troop 28 under the leadership of Allen Sydnor, has earned the rank of Eagle Scout. He was recognized at the troop’s Scout Sunday Court of Honor ceremony at Independent Presbyterian Church (IPC) in February. For his Eagle service project, Parker built and installed a picnic area for the Dale Head Playground at the Children’s Fresh Air Farm (CFAF) in Bluff Park. He and members of the troop completed the project in time to be used by IPC for the SAIL Summer Learning Program and other summer activities hosted by CFAF. In addition to raising funds for his project, he contributed $750 toward the playground fund. Hartline earned 26 merit badges on his path to Eagle and was awarded
the Order of the Arrow and God and Country designations. He attended scouting camps in Alabama, Georgia and Seattle. Parker completed two high adventure trips, the Philmont Trek at Philmont Scout Ranch in Cimarron, N.M., and Sea Base Adventure Crew in Abacos, Bahamas. Parker served in several leadership roles during his six years as an active member of Troop 28. He logged over 305 hiking miles, 68 nights of camping and more than 200 service hours. Parker Hartline is a junior at Mountain Brook High School, where he is on the soccer team. He is an active member of Independent Presbyterian Church. He is the son of Penney and Roger Hartline, sister of Merrill Grace, and the grandson of Dr. and Mrs. Jerry Parker and Mr. and Mrs. Foster Hartline.
B10 • May 2014
Village Living
Community Motherwalk set for Mother’s Day Eve A sea of teal will descend upon Crestline Village on the day before Mother’s Day as a part of an annual event to honor mothers and ovarian cancer survivors. The Norma Livingston Ovarian Cancer Foundation will hold its 11th Annual Motherwalk and 5K on Saturday, May 10, at 9 a.m. The fun run begins at 10 a.m. The community-wide event, held in Crestline Village in the grass lot across from the Emmet O’Neal Library, includes music, food and entertainment for kids. Leashed dogs are welcome to the event. The public is invited to these festivities regardless of if they are running or walking. The awards ceremony will be at 10:30 a.m. All children will receive a medal as well as first, second and third place for each age group. Awards will also be given to the teams with the most members, best costumes and more.
On race day, the 5K is $35, and the Fun Run is $35 for adults and $20 for kids. On the day before the event, May 9, a Newsaroo kickoff party will be held from 7-10:30 p.m. at Avondale Brewery with packet pickup starting there at 5 p.m. The foundation was started by Lori Livingston in 2004 after she lost her mother, Norma Livingston, to ovarian cancer. The NLOCF hopes to increase awareness of the risks, symptoms and treatments for ovarian cancer while raising funds for ovarian cancer research. For more information, visit motherwalk.com or nlovca.org. Mother and daughter don teal in honor of ovarian cancer awareness at last year’s Motherwalk event in Crestline. Photo courtesy of the Norma Livingston Ovarian Cancer Foundation.
Run through the Zoo Run Wild For Painted Dogs, the 2014 Zoo Run, is scheduled for Saturday, May 17. The race supports the Painted Dog Conservation, which works with communities in Africa to protect the continent’s most endangered species, painted dogs or African wild dogs, whose numbers have dipped below 5,000. The race begins in the zoo’s parking lot and ends at the Trails of Africa exhibit. Because the race ends in the park, participants will be issued a free park wristband. Family and friends, however, must purchase wristbands unless they are members with
their membership I.D. On-site registration is at 6:30 a.m., and the 5K race begins at 7:30 a.m. Children’s races are as follows: the Turtle Trot, ages 0-2, 8:15 a.m.; the Chicken Cha Cha, ages 3-4, 8:25 a.m.; the Groundhog Gallop, ages 5-7, 8:35 a.m.; and the Serval Spring, ages 8-12, 8:45 a.m. The awards ceremony begins and the zoo opens 9 a.m. Participants will also receive an event T-shirt. For more or to register, visit birminghamzoo.com/events/.
Accessories
Prints
LAST CALL!!
Up to 60% OFF
Lamp
Chandeliers
Store Closing st May 21
1829 29th Ave. South • Homewood • 870-8110 www.shophomewood.com
Accessories
Shades
Thank you for making the past 12 years so special!
Furniture
Mirrors
Books
Gifst
Lamps
Tables
Lacy Russell was the pot of gold winner in Mountain Brook Village’s St. Patrick’s Day festivities. Russell won more than $1,500 in gift certificates and prizes from Mountain Brook Village merchants participating in the event.
Frames
Frames
Furniture
Striking a pot of gold
Prints
StopBloodCancer.com
May 2014 • B11
Girls presented at Midnight Ball
Cullinan earns Gold Award
Riva Cullinan
Front row: Katie Seeger, Holly Struthers, Mary Glenn Waldrop, Herron Taylor, Mary Martha Grizzle, Annie Bloomston, Francie Kenan, Abbie Rodgers. Middle row: Adelaide Cochran, Frances Carson, Turner Hull. Back row: Virginia Wilson, Mims Bruhn, Walker Sewell, Hallie West, Elizabeth Letzer, Murray Manley, Mimi Fullan, Adelaide Dunn, Margy Troiano, Everette Dawkins. Photo courtesy of ZAP.
At this year’s Midnight Ball, guests entered the elaborate foyer of Vestavia Hills Country Club and were met with vases of white orchids intertwined with twinkling lights and snow-covered twigs. Robert Logan of Backstage Florist created a Midnight Winter Wonderland in the Club’s Grand Ballroom. White Japanese lanterns hung from the ceiling, while branches adorned with votives illuminated by blue lighting transformed the room. The winter
theme was anything but cold during the night as 127 girls and their escorts where presented to a room overflowing with families and friends. The Midnight Ball was chaired by Angie Letzer, Margie Seeger and Kay West. The ball committee consisted of 21 mothers. -Submitted by Lisa Wilson
Riva Cullinan, a senior at Mountain Brook High School, recently earned the Girl Scout Gold Award, the highest achievement in Girl Scouting, for her project Reading to Recovery. Cullinan created a library for the patients at UAB’s psychiatric hospital through book drives and donations. Thanks to her efforts, patients at the hospital can now use puzzle books and new reading materials on several subjects. Nurses and other Girl Scout troops will help sustain the project so there will be a steady supply of books in the library at all times. Cullinan hopes her project will help combat stereotypes of people with disabilities. She said the project helped her become more confident in herself as a leader and develop her career goals. “Mental health is a huge community issue that many who don’t feel affected by it overlook. I want to bring to light more problems in the community because I now know that there are people who are willing and eager to help others,” Cullinan said. “I want to do more to raise awareness, and now I feel like I really can.”
B12 • May 2014
Village Living
Art fills Crestline field The Mountain Brook Art Association held its 33rd annual Spring Art Festival in April at the Crestline Elementary sports field. The goal of the event is to highlight members of the Mountain Brook Art Association’s work, to raise awareness of buying local art and to create a venue for the work to be sold. Around 70 artists, including Mountain Brook’s Vicki Denaburg, Barclay Gresham, Thomas Andrew, Lynn Briggs and Mary Mellen, attended. Visit mountainbrookartassociation.com for more.
StopBloodCancer.com
May 2014 • B13
A pigless barbecue festival
Still Sauced to Pork, last year’s barbecue contest winner at When Pigs Fly, with event organizer Jacob Halpren.
Presented by the Brenda and Fred Friedman Family Foundation, the Fifth Annual When Pigs Fly Kosher Barbecue festival will take place Sunday, May 18, at the Levite Jewish Community Center. The fun lasts from 11 a.m.-3 p.m. Kosher food consists of meat (animals must have cloven hooves and chew its cud), dairy and parve. Dairy products such as cheese and cream are kosher. Parve contains neither meat nor dairy, so fish with fins and scales, such as salmon and halibut, or simply fruits and grains and vegetables, are kosher. Brisket, chicken plates, sandwiches and sides will be for sale in addition to the cook-off teams’ food. Visit whenpigsflykosherbbq.com for more.
Belles presented The Birmingham Belles 46th annual Garden Party Presentation was held recently at the Country Club of Birmingham. The Birmingham Belles is a service organization whose purpose is to give senior high school girls the opportunity and experience of volunteerism and civic responsibility as they gain knowledge about their community. The young ladies presented will be visible at city functions throughout the year. This past year the Birmingham Belles served more than 650 hours. Their volunteer opportunities include: Arlington Summer Luncheons; delivering cookies baked from Belle recipes to assisted living homes; Birmingham Museum of Art’s Christmas at Arlington; Big Oak Ranch’s Decorators’ Show House; Mystics Halloween Parade; Mountain Brook Art Association Art Show; Mountain Brook Christmas Parade; the Birmingham Zoo, Childcare Resources Fairy Tale Ball; and Bargain Carousel by the Junior League of Birmingham. This year, Miss Rhea Fonde Nathan and Miss Margaret Fischer Pitman were the recipients of the 2014 Scholarship Fund, which has been established to honor Birmingham Belle founder, the late Mrs. James Mallory Kidd Jr.
Emmie Stutts and Mary Keller Greene (sitting) are pictured with Walton Stivender and Kaylor Kidd (standing). Photo courtesy of Dee Moore Photography.
Need to put more away for retirement? An annuity might just be the answer for you. I have the annuity options to fit your budget and your needs. Like a good neighbor, State Farm is there.® CALL ME TODAY.
Amy M Smith, Agent 3900 Montclair Road Ste 350 Mountain Brook, AL 35213 Bus: 205-870-8820 Fax: 205-870-8810 amy@amysmithinsurance.com www.amysmithinsurance.com
Beds • Bowls • Picture Frames • Treats • Jewelry Collars • Harnesses • and More!
LIFE JACKETS, NEW COLLARS
Fancy Fur
New bowls, Oven Baked Treats that are Wheat Free, Corn Free and Soy Free.
NEXT SUPER SATURDAY SALE MAY 17TH
5291 Valleydale Rd • 408-1693 • www.fancyfurpets.com
Fizz! Boom! Read! reading program coming to the library
Bronwyne Chapman and Elena Leonard stand in front of the library with summer readers.
Get ready for an explosion of excitement at Emmet O’Neal Library’s Summer Reading Kickoff Carnival on Sunday, May 18. Start the afternoon at 3 p.m. with the Thomas Hughes Brinkley Memorial Fun Run, a 1-mile course open to bikes, strollers, skates, runners and walkers. After your run, experiment with games, concessions, food trucks and a train ride at the annual carnival from 3:30-5:30 p.m. The mad scientists of Emmet O’Neal Library will be available during the entire carnival to help young readers register for our Fizz! Boom! Read! summer reading program. Tickets and registration for kickoff events are available beginning May 1. All other summer reading programs and activities begin Monday, June 2. Our hypothesis? This will be a summer of discovery for kid readers at the library. Visit eolib.org for more details about programming and Xtreme Reads, the online summer reading option for upper elementary students. The carnival and fun run are planned and manned by members of the Junior Women’s Committee of 100, a group of women who are dedicated to supporting and enhancing the EOL Children’s Department by volunteering their time and efforts. The kickoff events are made possible by Carnival Chair Elena Leonard, Carnival Co-Chair Bronwyne Chapman, Fun Run Chair Rebecca Patterson, Fun Run Co-Chair Katie Avery, JWC President Lauren Burgess and Vice President Lindsay Cutshall. Aside from putting together the carnival, which raises funds that are essential to the programs and services of the Children’s Department, JWC members spend more than 400 hours volunteering in the department during the year.
B14 • May 2014
Village Living
Ball of Roses to support Alabama Ballet The annual Ball of Roses will be held on Saturday, May 31 at the Country Club of Birmingham’s East Room with the presentation beginning at 9 p.m. The Ball of Roses is sponsored by the Ballet Guild of Birmingham’s President Grace Long Kipp and Executive Vice-President Rebecca Morris Wise. The First Ball of Roses was held in August of 1961. Eleven young women from Birmingham were presented. Each year, the ball is sponsored by the Ballet Guild of Birmingham, an invitational organization of young women dedicated to supporting the ballet in Birmingham through fundraising and volunteer work. Founded in 1959, the Ballet Guild was organized to promote and foster development of ballet
in Birmingham in addition to raising funds for its support. Since its inception, the Ballet Guild has raised more than $1 million for the Alabama Ballet. This year, the Ball of Roses celebrates its 54th anniversary and continues to serve as a vital fundraiser for the Alabama Ballet. Ball of Roses Chairman Mary Bradley Hosch Anderson and Ball Co-Chairman Sarah Norville Peinhardt have collaborated with Carole Sullivan of Lagniappe Designs on a colorful palette and garden theme for the ball decor. This year’s Men’s Committee Dinner, chaired by Mary Cox Brown and co-chaired by Beverly Long Crawford, has planned a formal seated dinner for donors prior to the presentation.
Making plans for this year’s Ball of Roses are Mary Cox Brown, men’s committee dinner chairman; Mary Bradley Hosch Anderson, ball chairman; and Sarah Norville Peinhardt, ball co-chairman.
New CCA junior board holding fundraiser A Coastal Conservation Association (CCA) Junior Board was recently started at Mountain Brook High School to raise awareness of and create interest in preserving marine resources in Alabama. The founding members of the board were chosen based on recognized leadership abilities, previous community volunteer work and past participation in CCA events. This group is now working on a fundraiser for the Patrick Fritze Lifetime Membership Fund. Group
members are selling chances to win one of two Yeti coolers with the CCA logo and lifetime membership to CCA for someone 18 years of age or younger. The recipient will be awarded the Patrick Fritze Lifetime Membership at the 2014 CCA Crawfest held on May 8 at 5:30 p.m. the Birmingham Children’s Zoo. The event will feature food, an open bar, live music by Rollin’ in the Hay, a silent auction and raffle. Tickets are $65 for individuals or $120 for couples. For more visit ccaalabama.org.
Front row: J. Roger Ball, CCA Alabama Executive Director Travis Taylor. Middle row: Stringer Vogtle, Sam Stewart, Wirth Doss, Jack McPherson, Stephen Little, John Eagan, George Eagan, Vincent Zicarelli, Parker Hartline, Andrew King, Preston Eagan, Tayler Strickland. Back row: Drew Brown, McKinnon Cox, Ridley Culp, J. Forrester DeBuys, IV, Deke Marbury, Ken Thompson, Franklin Brown, Weston Williams, Parker Crane, Anderson Aldag, Buddy Pell, Thomas Skinner, Tucker Deaton. Not pictured: Christian Anderson, Mills Poynor, Gene Bromberg, Jacob Carroll, Matt Creighton, Hunter Lucas.
StopBloodCancer.com
May 2014 • B15
Men on a mission The catalysts behind PreSchool Partners’ new building By MADOLINE MARKHAM Generational ties lie behind the new building you’ll see under construction on Montevallo Road starting this month. Allyson Mouron was so moved by the work of PreSchool Partners as a member of its junior board that she left her teaching position at Mountain Brook Elementary to work full time at the preschool. Her father-in-law, Mike Mouron, took notice. “Once Allyson became so committed, I met [PreSchool Partners Executive Director] Lella [Carl Hamiter] and learned more about the history of the preschool, and it seemed like an undertaking I thought was innovative,” Mike Mouron said. Recently, Mouron learned that PreSchool Partners would no longer be able to continue in its current space, and he started thinking about how to find them a permanent home. Around the same time, he saw the former McElwain Elementary School property for sale on Montevallo Road and had an idea. Mouron and his wife, Kathy, would purchase the property for the organization, starting what would become Operation School House. Now, for the first time since it was founded 20 years ago, Preschool Partners will have its own permanent home for its programs for
at-risk preschool children. A groundbreaking ceremony was held in March, and construction is scheduled to start in May on the McElwain site. Before Mouron even asked him, Pete Pritchard, who had worked with Mouron’s son Christopher in the past, had volunteered his services as an architect for the new building. Turner Burton of Hoar Construction, another member of the junior board whom Mouron has known since his birth, stepped in to offer his company’s services. Mouron is co-chairing the capital campaign for the building with Foots Parnell, a friend since junior high school and the father of PreSchool Partners development director Allene Neighbors. The combination of donated services and a $2.6 million capital campaign will bring the new building to life by January if all goes according to schedule. The facility will add a day activity room, parent education rooms, a conference room and offices for all of the staff that the organization has not previously had. There will also be an office for The University of Alabama School of Education where the Mary Harmon and Paul Bryant Chair will work with literacy programs in the state. “We have approached this project with the children in mind and come up with a
Turner Burton of Hoar Construction, Mike Mouron of Capstone Development, architect Pete Pritchard, Kathy Mouron and Foots Parnell pose with PreSchool Partners students at the groundbreaking for Operation Schoolhouse. Photo by Ben Breland.
building that visually makes sense to the project,” Pritchard said. “My hope is that the facility will let the program expand and serve more children.” The 12,000-square-foot, one-story red brick building will incorporate basic forms and shapes and simple patterns. Pritchard said that since becoming involved with the project, he has been paying more attention to preschools and how crucial it is to help children get involved with learning at an early age. Through PreSchool Partners, around 70 preschool-aged children from inner city families in north Birmingham each year are equipped with not just academic lessons but also behavior and social skills. Their parents attend school one morning a week with their child and
participate in a family literacy program. “I can’t think of another endeavor regarding children’s education that I would rather work with right now,” Parnell said. “Every child deserves a quality education, none more so important than a child who already might be at risk due to socioeconomic circumstances. When you see the faces of those children and how eager they are to learn, it’s very heartwarming.” Beside where the new PreSchool Partners building will sit, Mouron has contracted land for building single-family residences he sees as ideal for young professionals or empty nesters in the area. The homes will be designed by English Village-based Dungan Nequette architects. To learn more, visit operationschoolhouse.com.
B16 • May 2014
Village Living
Reawakening the paper boy Longtime resident publishes coming-of-age memoir set in Civil Rights-era Birmingham By MADOLINE MARKHAM At age 13, Chervis Isom didn’t fully understand the power of the paper. Picking up his first Birmingham newspaper route in 1952 provided an avenue for the entrepreneurial spirit hidden under his quiet demeanor. But its influence would ultimately be the key to what he describes as his story of “redemption out of a rotten culture to a better place.” The paper route would introduce him to the Millers, a couple from up North, whom he felt obligated to help acclimate to the “Southern ways of life.” Instead, their influence would cause him to start asking questions that would change his own views. In the papers’ pages, he would first meet his future law partner, Abe Berkowitz, whom he describes as a “hero offering a distinct voice in Birmingham, Alabama, writing of a truth that so few people were willing to accept.” These people, along with books, music and other influences, would shape Isom’s coming-of-age narrative. “It’s easy for people to fear people who are different from you when you don’t know
them,” he said. “Once you get to know them, you learn to find so much more that binds you together than separates you.” Ten years ago, Isom picked up the pen with a new perspective, pushing around words to memorialize his mentor and childhood experiences in the diverse Norwood neighborhood. Several years into the process, he started to realize there was an arc to these stories that could become a book. The Newspaper Boy was published earlier this year. “I wanted my grandchildren to know about the history of Birmingham and what the South was like during the Jim Crow days,” said Isom, whose four grandchildren attend Cherokee Bend Elementary, Mountain Brook Junior High and the Altamont School. “It’s a place we need to avoid, and it’s something every young person should know.” As the primary narrative of the book ends, Isom, a young lawyer, is focused on his career (with what is now Baker, Donelson, Bearman, Caldwell & Berkowitz) and family, trying to work hard and be a good citizen. But, he said, he didn’t act on his
Author Chervis Isom poses in the car he won in a contest for newspaper delivery boys by The Birmingham News in 1957. His role delivering newspapers in the 1950s was formative in his coming-of-age experience, as chronicled in his new book. Photo courtesy of Chervis Isom.
coming-of-age convictions about culture and changing viewpoints until he started writing what would become The Newspaper Boy. It was then that his passion for community involvement was reignited. Today he serves on the Board of Directors for the Norwood Resource Center, and after 12 years living on Montevallo Road, he and his wife, Martha, moved to downtown Birmingham. As he explains in his book, today he is concerned about the regeneration of urban areas and is calling for movement into communities like the one where he grew up. He dreams of people of all ages, races and classes forming diverse neighborhoods — a redeemed version of the community where he grew up. “That’s how a child learns how he fits into the world around him, seeing all the kinds of folks he’ll encounter later in life, out in the real world, the way I did,” he wrote in the book’s afterword. The Newspaper Boy is available at Alabama Booksmith, Jim Reid Books, the Birmingham Civil Rights Institute Gift Store and Little Professor. For more, visit thenewspaperboy.net.
Lawyer Chervis Isom has published a memoir about growing up in Civil Rights-era Birmingham. Photos courtesy of Chervis Isom.
StopBloodCancer.com
May 2014 • B17
Celebrations
Have an engagement, wedding or anniversary announcement? Email jennifer@villagelivingonline.com to have it included in an upcoming issue!
Barnett-Austill Mr. and Mrs. Frank Laird Barnett of Birmingham announce the engagement of their daughter, Laura Madison, to William Alfred Austill Jr., son of Mr. and Mrs. William Alfred Austill of Birmingham. The bride-elect is the granddaughter of Dr. and Mrs. Robert Vernon Barnett and the late Alice Albritton Barnett and Mr. and Mrs. Wade Odice Farmer, all of Birmingham. Miss Barnett is a 2009 graduate of Mountain Brook High School and a 2013 summa cum laude graduate of Auburn University with a bachelor’s degree in finance. She was a member of Alpha Kappa Psi Professional Business Fraternity, where she served as president and was a twoyear director for the University Program Council’s Tiger Nights. At Auburn she was also a member of Phi Kappa Phi, Beta Gamma Sigma, Golden Key International, Alpha Lamba Delta, Phi Eta Sigma and the National Society of Collegiate Scholars honor societies as well as Alpha Kappa Psi All-Academic Team and participated in the Leadershape Institute program. Miss Barnett is employed as a business risk consultant with Deloitte and Touche in Atlanta. The prospective groom is the grandson of the late Mr. and Mrs. Jere Austill Jr. of Mobile, the late Mr. Ralph Huntington Sidway Jr. of Simpsonville, Ky., and the late Dr. and Mrs. George McComas Wolverton of Clarksville, Ind. Mr. Austill is a 2009 graduate of Mountain Brook High School and a summa cum laude graduate of Auburn University with a bachelor’s degree in finance. He is a member of Alpha Kappa Psi Professional Business fraternity, where he served as vice
president of alumni relations, was director for the University Program Council’s Special Projects and director of films. He was also a member Alpha Kappa Psi All-Academic Team and participated in the Leadershape Institute program. He was a member of Phi Kappa Phi, Golden Key International, Alpha Lambda Delta, Phi Eta Sigma and the National Society of Collegiate Scholars honor societies. Mr. Austill is employed as a business risk consultant with Deloitte and Touche in Atlanta. The wedding will be May 24.
Watson-Booth
Mrs. Cathy Watson announces the engagement of her daughter, Elizabeth Todd Watson, to Milton Oliver Booth III, son of Mr. and Mrs. Milton Oliver Booth Jr. The bride-elect is also the daughter of the late Mr. Joseph E. Watson Jr. and the granddaughter of Mr. and Mrs. C. R. Todd of Trussville and the late Dr. and Mrs. Joseph Ellis Watson of Luverne, Ala. Miss Watson is a graduate of Mountain Brook High School and The University of Alabama, where she earned a bachelor’s degree in advertising, French and Spanish, and was a member of Kappa Kappa Gamma sorority. She was presented at the Ball of Roses in 2009. She also attended The
Creative Circus design school in Atlanta and is currently employed as a graphic designer at Express Oil Change. The prospective groom is the grandson of Mrs. Claire Booth and the late Mr. Milton Oliver Booth of Mobile and Mr. and Mrs. James David Brown of Mountain Brook. Mr. Booth is a graduate of Mountain Brook High School. He attended The University of Alabama, where he received a bachelor’s degree in finance in 2007. He was a member of Pi Kappa Alpha fraternity and Jasons Honor Society while at UA. He is employed at Johnson Sterling and recently became a CFA charter holder. The wedding will be June 21.
B18 • May 2014
I love it when my mom...
Village Living
“ Mommy makes me smile and makes me happy when she gives me treats. And when she takes me to the lake or the beach. And when she takes me to Disney World!” Walker Graham, age 4
“ Picks us up from school. She always brings us an after-school snack in the car. She knows we are hungry and thirsty from playing and learning. That is what makes her special. She knows what we like.” Maggie & Jackson Skinner, age 7
“ My mom loves and cares for me. She is the best listener. I love that she thinks she is a good singer. In the car, she sings at the top of her lungs while forcing me and my brothers to listen to her 80s music. And we are in the car a lot.” Alaina Long, age 9
“ Buys me food, cares for me and lets me hold baby Oliver.” Reed Warburton, age 7
StopBloodCancer.com
May 2014 • B19
Faith
Take us with you.
Life Actually By Kari Kampakis
Ten truths moms should know It’s May, and you know what that means. Time to recognize and celebrate every unsung hero named mom. Most moms don’t give themselves enough credit. They might admit they’re a good mom, but a great mom? I believe many would choke on the word. Women are too hard on themselves, and nowhere is this more apparent than in motherhood. Following are 10 truths moms should know. I hope they serve as encouragement, hope and a well-deserved pat on the back. } Truth #10: While the world wants you at your best, your family just wants you. In the workplace, there’s little room for error. But in motherhood, there’s more job security. There’s more love, forgiveness and grace. Your family isn’t looking to replace you because the truth is nobody can. Your family just wants you. } Truth #9: You’re the perfect imperfect person to raise your children. God matched you with your children for a reason. The gifts you possess are precisely what they need to thrive. So rather than berate yourself or wish you were like other parents, pray for guidance on how
}
}
}
}
to channel your talents and experiences to impact your children’s journey. Truth #8: Your beauty is bigger than the number on your scale and deeper than your reflection in your mirror. You’re made in the image of God. This makes you sacred. Learn to see yourself through the loving eyes of your maker, not the harsh filter of your inner critic, and your true beauty will shine. Truth #7: Sometimes your kids will thrive because of you. Sometimes they’ll thrive in spite of you. Before you take too much credit for your child’s success or panic that your misstep will ruin their life, remember who holds the cards. It’s God who gives your children their gifts and opportunities. It’s also God who can turn your wrong into a right. Truth #6: Raising holy kids is more important than raising happy kids. The deepest joy possible comes through a relationship with God. So if you really want happy children, the place to start is holiness because holiness leads to happiness. Truth #5: A healthy family begins with a healthy mom. As a caregiver, you put others
first. But no one benefits when you run on fumes. When you nurture yourself as an individual, you have more to offer your family. It makes you happy to come home and them happy to see you. } Truth #4: No child has to fail so your child can succeed. Parenting today is too competitive. But God has a plan for everyone to excel. And when you treat your children’s peers as allies, not competitors, you build community. The more you help others, the more they’ll help you. Because it takes a village to raise kids, couldn’t we all use more help? } Truth #3: Every season of parenting is special. When you open your eyes to that, you enjoy the present. I know babies are adorable, but there’s also something miraculous about watching your child become a young man or woman. And when you remember that everything passes, even the awkward stages, you’re more likely to enjoy what’s in front of you instead of reminiscing back or looking ahead at the next chapter. } Truth #2: Children grow up and leave, but your husband stays. Nurturing your marriage
sets you up to enjoy your empty nest. Remember when you dated, how much time you had to connect? It could be like that again, only with more memories and a stronger bond. } Truth #1: The measure of a great mom is not productiveness. It’s obedience to God. If the reason I’m unproductive is because I’m caring for my family, I’m following God’s will. God doesn’t measure my work or yours by worldly standards. He doesn’t need hard evidence because he sees it all: the silent sacrifices, the broken hearts, the late-night care, the kisses, snuggles and loving words that vanish into thin air. You’re building God’s kingdom, after all, and what on earth could be greater than that? Kari Kubiszyn Kampakis is a Mountain Brook mom of four girls, columnist and blogger for The Huffington Post. Join her Facebook community at “Kari Kampakis, Writer” or find her on Twitter, Instagram and Pinterest. Find her personal blog at karikampakis.com or contact her at kari@karikampakis.com. To read the full version of this article, visit villagelivingonline.com.
Award-winning community journalism on your mobile phone. VillageLivingOnline.com
B20 • May 2014
Calendar
Village Living
Mountain Brook Events May 1: Mountain Brook High School Band Concert. 7 p.m. May 2: Bards and Brews. 6:30-9 p.m. Birmingham Botanical Gardens. Presented by the Birmingham Public Library, Bards and Brews is a poetry performance and beer-tasting series. Must be at least 18 to attend. Call 226-3670. May 2: Tails in the Trails. 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Birmingham Zoo. Cocktails, live music and entertainment. $20 at the door, ages 21 and up. Visit birminghamzoo.com or call 879-0409. May 3: English Village Spring Cleaning. Stores will be holding sales during business hours. Visit welcometomountainbrook.com. May 4: One Man Circus-in-a-Suitcase Show & Family CircusYoga Workshop. 2 p.m. Circus Show, 3:30-5 p.m. CircusYoga. Levite Jewish Community Center. Circus is $10 for adults, $5 for children, $25 for a family. Yoga is $18 for adults, $12 for children, or $40 for a family. Visit bhamjcc.org or circusminimus.com. May 4: Yom Ha’atzmaut (Israel Birthday) Celebration. 1-3:30 p.m. Levite Jewish Community Center. Celebrate Israel’s 66th birthday with activities, cake, Israeli food, music and more to showcase Israel. Visit bhamjcc.org. May 4: Electronics Recycling. St. Luke’s Episcopal Church. 9 a.m.-2 p.m. Call 871-3583. May 5: Mountain Brook High School
The last day for ordering engraved bricks from the Mountain Brook Chamber of Commerce that will be placed in front of Mountain Brook City Hall is May 30.
Choir Concert.
kids. Visit motherwalk.com or nlovca.org.
May 8: Coastal Conservation Association Crawfest. 5:30 p.m. Birmingham Children’s Zoo. Food, an open bar, live music by Rollin’ in the Hay, a silent auction and raffle. $65 for individuals or $120 for couples. Visit ccaalabama.org.
May 13: English Village Treasure Tuesday. A Village Gold gift certificate will be hidden in a village store for one customer to find, and stores will run special events until 8 p.m. that evening. This event will be held every second Tuesday of the month in the village. Visit welcometomountainbrook.com.
May 10: Motherwalk and 5K. 9 a.m. walk, 10 a.m. fun run. Crestline Village, grass lot across from the Emmet O’Neal Library. The event benefits the Norma Livingston Ovarian Cancer Foundation. On race day, the 5K is $35, and the Fun Run is $35 for adults and $20 for
Take us with you.
Award-winning community journalism on your mobile phone. VillageLivingOnline.com
May 14: 16th Annual Mountain Brook Sports Corporation Golf Tournament. Highland Park Golf Course. Contact Ken McPherson at ken@ mcphersonoil.com.
May 15: Arthur Price Exhibit Opening. Gallery 1930. Call 870-1930 or visit artgallery1930.com. May 16: ‘Goldfinger’ Flicks Amongst The Flowers. 7:30 p.m. film, 6 p.m. gates open Birmingham Botanical Gardens Formal garden. Free movie showing. A themed menu will be available for purchase. Visit bbgardens.com. May 17: Zoo Run. 9 a.m. Birmingham Zoo. Run through the zoo to raise money for African Painted Dogs. Visit birminghamzoo.com or call 879-0409.
StopBloodCancer.com
May 2014 • B21
Calendar
Mountain Brook Events
Emmet O’Neal Library Call 445-1121 or visit eolib.org for more.
Adults
Party. 7 p.m. Presented by Standing Room Only. For ages 21 and up.
Wednesdays: Brown Bag Lunch Series. Noon doors open, 12:30 p.m. program.
Teens
May 1: Church & Oak Book Group. 6:30 p.m. Church Street Coffee & Books. Discussing Me Before You by Jojo Moyes. May 10: Knit & Knibble. 2-3:30 p.m. All crafts and skill levels welcome. May 12: Great Books. 6:30 p.m. Book group discussing a selected short story. Birmingham Botanical Gardens is showing 1964 James Bond film ‘Goldfinger’ in its Formal Garden, pictured, on May 16.
May 17: Mountain Brook Athletics Summer Flag Football Registration. 9 a.m.-noon. Mountain Brook Junior High School. Visit mbathletics. org. May 17-18: Alabama Bonsai Society Annual Spring Show. Saturday 11 a.m.-5 p.m., Sunday 1-4 p.m. Birmingham Botanical Gardens Main Auditorium. Bonsai trees, which are grown and styled using ancient Oriental practices, will be on display. May 18: Fifth annual When Pigs Fly Kosher Barbecue Festival. 11 a.m.-3 p.m. Levite Jewish Community Center. Brisket, chicken plates, sandwiches and sides will be for sale in addition to the cook-off teams’
food. Visit whenpigsflykosherbbq.com. May 22: Mountain Brook High School Graduation. 7 p.m. Pete Hanna Center. May 23: Last Day of School. Mountain Brook City Schools. May 27-Aug. 15: Camp LJCC Summer Day Camps. Visit bhamjcc.org. May 30: Last Day of Brick Sale. Mountain Brook Chamber of Commerce and Leadership Mountain Brook are selling engraved bricks to be placed in front of the new Municipal Complex. Visit welcometomountainbrook.com.
May 13: The Bookies. 10 a.m. Book group discussing The Bully Pulpit by Doris Kearns Goodwin. May 20: Documentaries After Dark. 6:30 p.m. Film about the Disney studios. May 24-26: Library Closed for Memorial Day. May 27: Genre Reading Group. 6:30 p.m. Discussing Jewish American Heritage Month. May 30: Soul Music Dance
May 2: Game On Video Game Tournament. 4:30-6:30 p.m. May 5: TAB. 5-6 p.m. The monthly meeting of the library’s Teen Advisory Board. May 9: Circuit Bending. 4-6 p.m. May 20-22: Exam Study Breaks for junior high and high school students. 9 a.m.-noon, 1-5 p.m. May 21: Late Night Study Break. 6-9 p.m.
Children *Regular lapsit storytimes will resume in June. May 18: Thomas Hughes Brinkley Memorial Fun Run, 3 p.m. Summer Reading Kickoff Carnival, 3:30-5:30 p.m. Call 879-0497 or visit eolib.org for more information.
B22 • May 2014
Village Living
Calendar Area Events
Feb. 22-May 18: Delacroix and the Matter of Finish. Birmingham Museum of Art. The first Eugène Delacroix (1798-1863) exhibition in the United States in more than a decade features the work of the leader of the French Romantic Movement, who was often heralded as the “father of impressionism.” Call 254-2565 or visit artsbma.org.
ampitheatrepelham.com. May 9-10: Mamma Mia! May 9 at 8 p.m., May 10 at 2 p.m. and 8 p.m. BJCC Concert Hall. Musical of a young woman’s quest to discover the identity of her father on the eve of her wedding. Visit bjcc.org or call 1-800-745-3000.
May 1: ArtPlay Parlor Series: Ji on Piano. 7 p.m. Alys Stephens Performing Arts Center. Ticket price includes beverages, hors d’oeuvres and performance by Ji. Visit alysstephens.org or call 975-2787. May 1: Salsa de Mayo presented by the Gardens’ Junior Board. 6-8 p.m. Birmingham Botanical Gardens. Ticket price includes beverages and chips while you learn to make your own gourmet salsa. Visit bbgardens.org or call 414-3950.
May 10: Girls on the Run 5K. 8 a.m. Marconi Park. Annual fundraiser and culmination of 10-week running program for girls. Open to the public. Visit girlsontherunbham.org.
The Birmingham Boys Choir will hold a concert on May 18.
dents. Free. Visit childrensdancefoundation.org. May 1: First Thursdays/After Hours. 5-9 p.m. Birmingham Museum of Art. Admission is free, tapas at Oscar’s are $12, and there will be a cash bar. Visit artsbma.org or call 254-2565. May 2: Eric Clapton. 7:30 p.m. Oak Mountain Amphitheatre. Visit amphitheatrepelham.com. May 2-3: ASO Regions Masterworks Series: Saint-Saëns Piano Concerto No. 2. 8 p.m. Alys Stephens Performing Arts Center. Visit alysstephens.org or call 975-2787. May 3: Elements. 7:30 p.m. The Alabama Theatre. Dances inspired by the wonder in the world around us and the world within us, performed by Children’s Dance Foundation’s Upper School stu-
May 3: Mid Alabama Corvette Club Vette Spectacular. 9 a.m.-3 p.m. Zamora Shrine Temple. This annual event benefits Magic Moments of Alabama. $5 per car load. Visit midalcorvette.com or call 541-8681. May 6: Sidewalk Film Festival Event. 6 p.m. Rojo. Networking event for filmmakers and film fans. Complimentary salsa and queso from Rojo. Admission is free. Call 324-0888. May 6: Brit Floyd. 8 p.m. BJCC Concert Hall. Music from all 14 Pink Floyd studio albums with a laser and light show. Visit britfloyd.com or call 1-800-745-3000. May 4: Dolores Hydock Performs ‘At
Home Between Earth and Sky.’ 2 p.m. Arlington Home and Gardens, 331 Cotton Avenue. Free. Call 780-5656. May 8: 6th Annual Hands Up Together. 7 p.m. Alabama School of Fine Arts Day Theater. Mary Fisher, an activist, author and survivor, will speak. The Collat Jewish Family Services event benefits senior adults and will honor Dr. Michael Saag. Visit cjfsbham.org. May 9-11: The Beatles 50th Anniversary Celebration. 7 p.m. Workplay. Black Jacket Symphony will perform “Rubber Soul” on May 9 and “Revolver” on May 10. The band will perform both “Rubber Soul” and “Revolver” on May 11. Visit workplay.com or call 879-4773.
May 10: Birmingham NF Walk. 9 a.m.1 p.m. Railroad Park. Alabama’s chapter of the Children’s Tumor Foundation presents a walk to end neurofibromatosis. Visit ctf.org or call 936-9447. May 10: ASO Red Diamond SuperPops! Series: Disney in Concert. 8 p.m. Samford University’s Leslie S. Wright Fine Arts Center. Multimedia performance of Disney’s new and classic songs. Visit alabamasymphony.org or call 975-2787. May 10: Margaritaham. 12-6 p.m. Iron Horse. In conjunction with Iron Horse’s BBQ lunch benefiting Children’s Hospital. Music, silent auction and raffles are included with a $5 donation. Visit mcphc.org or call 914-7953. May 11: SuperJazz Concert. 3-4:35 p.m. Brock Recital Hall, Samford University. Big Band concert featuring five saxophones, trombones, trumpets and a rhythm section. Visit superjazzbirmingham. wordpress.com or call 335-2961.
May 9-10: Jason Aldean: Burn It Down Tour. 7:30 p.m. Oak Mountain Amphitheatre. Visit
Summer Fun Photo Contest Coming next month
dailyventure.com
StopBloodCancer.com
Calendar
May 2014 • B23
Area Events May 15: Bite Presented by CM Foodservice. 6-8 p.m. Rosewood Hall, SoHo Square. Live music and samplings from restaurants like La Paz, Golden Rule Bar-B-Q, Ezell’s Fish Camp, G-Dogs and Michael’s Restaurant. Visit cmfoodservicellc.biz or call 322-6119.
phony.org or call 975-2787.
May 16-17: ASO Regions Masterworks Series: Mozart’s Requiem. 8 p.m. Alys Stephens Performing Arts Center. Visit alabamasymphony.org or call 975-2787.
May 22: Sesame Street Live: Can’t Stop Singing. 3 p.m. and 6:30 p.m. BJCC Concert Hall. Visit bjcc.org.
May 16: Back Forty Beer Company Presents Beer on the Back Porch Music Series. 6-10 p.m. Ruffner Mountain Nature Center. Music, dinner and three drink tokens are included with the purchase of a $25 ticket. Visit ruffnermountain.org or call 833-8264. May 17: Willie Nelson and Alison Krauss. 7 p.m. BJCC Arena and Exhibition Halls. Visit bjcc.com or call 1-800-745-3000.
May 20-25: SEC Baseball Tournament. Hoover Metropolitan Stadium. Visit secdigitalnetwork.com or call 1-800-732-4849.
May 23: Dave Matthews Band. 7 p.m. Oak Mountain Amphitheatre. Visit amphitheatrepelham. com. May 24: Happenin Fest. 3 p.m. Good People Brewery. Daylong celebration designed to feature local and touring artists from across the southeast. Ages 21 and up. Visit happeninrecords.com. May 25: 8th Annual Preserve Jazz Festival. 2 p.m. Sloss Furnaces National Historic Landmark. Call 390-3800.
May 17: Do Dah Day. 11:01 a.m. Caldwell and Rhodes Parks. Parade and day at the park with friends, pets, crafts, food, beverages and music. All proceeds benefit local animal charities. Visit dodahday.org.
May 27: Journey and Steve Miller Band. 6:45 p.m. Oak Mountain Amphitheatre. Visit amphitheatrepelham.com or call 985-0703.
May 18: Birmingham Boys Choir 36th Annual Spring Concert. 4 p.m. Covenant Presbyterian Church, 65 Old Montgomery Highway. Visit birminghamboyschoir.com.
May 30: ASO Coffee Concert: Tchaikovsky’s Violin Concerto. 11 a.m. Alys Stephens Center. Visit alabamasymphony.org or call 975-2787.
May 20: ASO Concertmaster and Friends: Baroque Trumpet. 7 p.m. Brock Recital Hall, Samford University. Visit alabamasym-
May 31: 5th Annual Bob Sykes BBQ and Blues Festival. 12 to 9 p.m. DeBardeleben Park. Live blues music and Bob Sykes BBQ. Visit bobsykesblues.com or call 426-1400.
The Bob Sykes BBQ and Blues Festival on May 31 will feature live blues music.
B24 • May 2014
Village Living