Volume 3 | Issue 11 | March 2016
TRAILBLAZERS
Ham Hobby
Mountain biking team plans new trail at McCallum Park By SYDNEY CROMWELL
Amateur radio operator makes global connections listening to what’s going on around the world.
See page A20
From Rebel to Brave
Hard work of former Vestavia baseball standout takes him to spring training with Atlanta.
See page B16
INSIDE Sponsors .......... A4 City .....................A6 Business .......... A10 Camp Guide.....A22 Community .......B4
M
ountain biking is a growing sport at Vestavia Hills High School, but the team can’t really fit practices into the school gym. For the 15 to 20 middle and high school students on the Vestavia Hills team in its second season, that has meant driving to Oak Mountain State Park or attempting to avoid traffic while riding in Liberty Park. Right behind the high school, however, was an ideal site for practices that head coach Tina Chanslor and team director Doug Brown never knew existed. “I’ve lived in Vestavia forever and I’ve never gone down the little road to McCallum Park,” said Chanslor, who is also president of the Birmingham Urban Mountain Pedalers. At McCallum Park, Chanslor and Brown see the potential to build a new trail, not just for mountain biking, but also for anyone looking to walk, hike or run in the area. The mountain bike team is in its second year and is one of 23 Alabama leagues in the National Interscholastic Cycling Association (NICA), with the race season running from November to May. Chanslor said the team competes in several locations across the state, in races anywhere from five to 20 miles depending on the riders’ skill level. The sport is not just about being the first to the finish line. Riders have to deal with challenging
See BIKING | page A30
School House ...B12 Sports .............. B16 Medical Guide ..B22 Real Estate..... B25 Calendar ..........B26
High school and middle school members of the mountain bike team ride the trails of Oak Mountain State Park. Photo by Ron Burkett.
Sharing the gift of sight By SYDNEY CROMWELL
Pre-Sort Standard U.S. Postage PAID Memphis, TN Permit #830
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Through Operation Saving Sight, Dr. Stephen Hamilton performs cataract and other eye surgeries at no cost to people living under the poverty line. Photo courtesy of Stephen Hamilton.
For Dr. Stephen Hamilton, sometimes it takes less than half an hour to give someone their vision back. A 1980 Vestavia Hills High School graduate, Hamilton is an ophthalmologist at Eye Consultants of Atlanta. He specializes in corneal transplants, Lasik eye surgery and complicated cataract removals, but his faith and upbringing, Hamilton said, inspired him to use his medical talents as an opportunity to help others. This started with medical missions around the world, but when it became more difficult to travel, he found there was great need for eye care in his own city. “My whole career I’ve always taken care of people. I’ve never turned a patient away if they
YOU’RE THINKING SPRING CLEAN.
can’t afford the care,” Hamilton said. “There’s lots of need here.” It began with treating patients who came to his Atlanta office but, with or without insurance, couldn’t pay for eye surgery. This was especially common for cataracts, which Hamilton can remove in a 10- to 15-minute procedure. Then he decided to give his work a formal name to help spread the word: Operation Saving Sight. “I had a lot of people coming to me that were completely blind from cataracts, and it’s so easy for me to help them,” Hamilton said. Beginning in spring 2015, Operation Saving Sight has held two free surgery days per year for patients below the poverty line. Hamilton and the fellow training with him — who this year is Dr.
See SIGHT | page A31 Proudly keeping homes cleaner and healthier since 1987
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A2 • March 2016
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March 2016 • A3
A better life is out there. And a new location where it can be found is coming soon. Experience Iron Tribe Fitness in Vestavia Hills!
Want to make a great life even better? Iron Tribe Fitness is no ordinary gym. Instead, it’s a community of like-minded athletes who train, sweat and succeed together. But don’t take our word for it-- ask any one of your friends at our five other Birmingham locations. And for a limited time, you’ll receive a special gift from Iron Tribe Fitness for being one of the first 50 athletes at ITF Vestavia.
And If you’re one of the first 50 to sign up, you receive these special gifts! For the first 50 new members at our Vestavia location at 1014 Montgomery Hwy, Birmingham, AL 35216 we’re giving away an exclusive fitness package to help you kickstart your Iron Tribe experience! Not only that, if you’re one of the first 10 new members you’ll also receive supplement package from SFH (Stronger Faster Healthier). Here’s what you get: An exclusive “founding member” t-shirt, a Fuel Manual to track your nutrition, a blender bottle, steel water bottle, Iron Tribe cup, #whyitribe wristband and an Iron Tribe duffel bag to carry everything in. If you’re one of the first 10 new members you’ll receive SFH Recovery protein and Fish Oils. This package is valued at over $200 and we’re giving it to you just for becoming a member! We’re so convinced you’ll love our program we want to help you get your foot in the door.
Stop by any one of our other five locations: IRON TRIBE FITNESS DOWNTOWN 300 27th Street S. Birmingham, AL 35233 205-254-6121
IRON TRIBE FITNESS HOMEWOOD 2740 Central Avenue, Homewood, AL 35209 205-874-6300
IRON TRIBE FITNESS HWY 150 2942 John Hawkins Parkway, Birmingham, AL 35244 205-733-5900
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REDEEM THIS CARD TO BECOME ONE OF 50 ATHLETES TO RECEIVE A SPECIAL GIFT PACKAGE! This package is valued at over $200 and we’re giving it to you just for becoming a member! We’re so convinced you’ll love our program we want to help you get your foot in the door. Remember, this special offer is only available for the first 50 people to sign up at Iron Tribe Fitness Vestavia. at 1014 Montgomery Hwy, Birmingham, AL 35216.
IRON TRIBE FITNESS MOUNTAIN BROOK 15 Dexter Avenue, Birmingham, AL 35213 205-802-1775
CALL IRON TRIBE VESTAVIA TODAY!
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A4 • March 2016
Vestavia Voice
About Us Editor’s Note By Sydney Cromwell Spring is on its way. The days may not always feel like it, but I’m convinced that warm sunshine is headed our way. I’m only a little disappointed we didn’t get any snow this winter. While you wait for spring to bring its flowers and warmer days, I hope you’ll enjoy the stories inside this March issue. Read about the new park proposed at Patchwork Farms and the trail project being planned at McCallum Park. Also, I particularly recommend reading about Joseph Odom, who is training with the Atlanta Braves, and Jerry Fiore, who is keeping alive the
old school art of Morse code and radio communication. If the weather inspires you to shed the heavy coats and get outside, consider signing up for the Purple People Run or try our list of Spring Break activities. Whatever story catches your eye, I hope this issue of the Vestavia Voice gives you lots to enjoy.
BEHIND THE LENS By Frank Couch
Crews from Clear Water Pools are busy chipping the surface of the three pools at Wald Park in Vestavia Hills. The resurfacing project will include repairing tile and chipping to the base and then replacing the pool’s surface. The project is expected to last approximately 2 months and is expected to be complet-
Publisher: Managing Editor: Design Editor: Director of Photography: Video Editor: Page Designers: Community Reporters: Staff Writers: Sports Reporter: Associate Editor: Copy Editor:
Dan Starnes Sydney Cromwell Kristin Williams Frank Couch Cherie Olivier Cameron Tipton Emily VanderMey Ana Good Erica Techo Jon Anderson Emily Featherston Sam Chandler Kyle Parmley Lucy Ridolphi Louisa Jeffries
Advertising Manager: Matthew Allen Sales and Distribution: Warren Caldwell Don Harris Michelle Salem Haynes Brittany Joffrion Rhonda Smith James Plunkett
ed in time for the traditional Memorial Day opening of the pool. Technical Data: NIKON D810, Lens (mm): 24, ISO: 200, Aperture: 5, Shutter: 1/1250. Got questions or ideas for another Behind The Lens? Email me at fcouch@starnespublishing.com.
Contributing Writers: Kari Kampakis Rick Watson Leah Ingram Eagle Marienne Thomas Ogle Steve Irvine Rachel Burchfiel Chris Megginson Jesse Chambers Grace Thornton
For advertising contact: dan@starnespublishing.com Contact Information: Vestavia Voice PO Box 530341 Birmingham, AL 35253 (205) 313-1780 dan@starnespublishing.com
Please submit all articles, information and photos to: sydney@ starnespublishing.com P.O. Box 530341 Birmingham, AL 35253
Published by: Starnes Publishing LLC Legals: The Vestavia Voice is published monthly. Reproduction or use of editorial or graphic content without prior permission is prohibited. The Vestavia Voice is designed to inform the Vestavia community of area school, family and community events. Information in The Vestavia Voice is gathered from sources considered reliable but the accuracy cannot be guaranteed. All articles/photos submitted become the property of The Vestavia Voice. We reserve the right to edit articles/photos as deemed necessary and are under no obligation to publish or return photos submitted. Inaccuracies or errors should be brought to the attention of the publisher at (205) 313-1780 or by email.
Please recycle this paper.
Please Support Our Sponsors Advanced Turf Care (A6) Alabama Allergy & Asthma Center (B21) Alabama Goods (A20) Alabama Outdoors (B8) Alabama Power A5, (B12) Alabama Vein Center (B22) Alys Stephens Center, Art Play (B26) Amy Lawson, RealtySouth (B27) ARC Realty (B3) Barganier & LeCroy Dentistry (B16) Becky Hicks, Remax Southern Homes (B25) Birmingham Museum of Art (A28) Birmingham Speech and Hearing Associates (B22) Bistro V (B25) Body Braille Massage (A19) Brandy Bradford/ ARC Realty (A19) Brookdale University Park (B9) Bruster’s Real Ice Cream (A30) Cabinetry Refinishing & estoration (A1) Cahaba Park Church (A22) California Closets (B17) Cardiovascular Associates of the Southeast (B23) Central Alabama Cadillac Dealers (A13) Children’s of Alabama (B23) Club Pilates (B14) Construx (B17) Copy & Photo Cafe (B9) Cottontails Village (B4) Dawson Family of Faith (A7) Dawson Music Academy (A29) Decorating Dens Interiors (B24) Dermatology & Skin Care Center of Birmingham (B24) Donatos (A14) Doorstep Delivery (A31) Dry Clean City (A9) ERA King Real Estate Homewood (B11) Fancy Goods Variety (B26) Highlands United Methodist Church (B4) Hutchinson Automotive (B19) Iron Tribe (A3) IronTrust Ins. (A30) Issis & Sons (B10) Jana Hanna, RealtySouth (A6) Jersey Mike’s Subs (A2) JJ Eyes (B19) Klinglers Cafe and Catering (B16) Korduroy Krocodile (B5) Liberty Park (B7) LIST Birmingham (A16, A17) Manda Luccasen, Re/MAX Southern Homes (B5) McWane Science Center (B13) Mohawk Floorz (B28) Moran’s Rocky Ridge Hardware (B1) Mr. Chen’s Authentic Chinese (B8) Over the Mountain Glass (B11) Pappas’ Grill (B4) Planet Fitness (B20) Preserve Paints (A12) Primrose School at Liberty Park (A25) RealtySouth Marketing (B15) Red Mountain Theatre Company (A26) Red Pearl Restaurant (A31) Rocky Ridge Chiropractic Center (A15) Royal Automotive (A32) Samford Summer Camp (A27) Sarver Orthodontics (B6) Savage’s Bakery (B6) Sentry Heating & Air (A21) Shelby Dermatology (A10) St. Vincent’s Health Systems (B3) Terry Hall Hair Design (A7) The Altamont School (A25) The Maids (A1) Tom Williams BMW (A18) United Car Care Center (A11) Uptown Nail Spa (A20) Vestavia Hills Lutheran Church (B8) Vestavia Hills Public Library (B27) Vestavia Hills Soccer Club (A24) Water Drainage Solutions (A11) Weigh To Wellness (A8) Whale of a Sale (A19) YMCA of Greater Birmingham (A23)
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March 2016 • A5
A PUBLIC NOTICE FROM ALABAMA POWER
TREE CREWS WORKING IN VESTAVIA THROUGH EARLY 2016 Alabama Power crews are working in several Vestavia neighborhoods, removing trees and other vegetation that threaten the safety and reliability of our electrical system. As part of this process, Alabama Power goes to great lengths to talk with individual property owners. Company representatives are going door to door, leaving notices at locations where work is needed. If you have any questions before crews come by your home, please call Alabama Power at 205-257-2155 and ask for someone in the Vegetation Management Group to contact you. Or you can email us at apcvm@southernco.com. Work in Vestavia and nearby areas is expected to continue through early 2016. Also, you can go online to alpwr.co/vm for more information about these safety and reliability measures, as well as resources for property owners who would like recommendations about planting the right tree in the right place.
Thank you for your understanding. We appreciate your business. Vegetation Management Group 205-257-2155 | apcvm@southernco.com
Š 2015 Alabama Power Company.
A6 • March 2016
Vestavia Voice
City
Council upholds zoning, denies request by unrelated individuals Residents of Carovel Circle voice concerns about students subleasing house City Attorney Patrick Boone expressed his concerns about the precedent that would be set by the council’s approval of the conditional use. Photo by Emily Featherston.
By EMILY FEATHERSTON The Vestavia Hills City Council voted unanimously Monday evening to deny a request for conditional use approval for the sublease of 1708 Carovel Circle to three unrelated individuals. The property, owned by Albert Elmore IV, was discovered to be in violation of the R-2 zoning classification after a complaint came through in the summer of 2015. The R-2 classification limits single-family residences to no more than one unrelated roommate, and City Clerk Rebecca Leavings explained that after the complaint was received, her office’s investigation was able to determine that multiple, unrelated men were living in the house. Elmore, who along with his three roommates is a student at Samford University, purchased the house in 2014. The leases for the three additional occupants are contracted as lasting from May 2015 to May 2016. Leavings said when Elmore was notified of the zoning violation he was not aware of the limit and began the process to request conditional use approval until the students graduate. The matter went before the Planning and Zoning Commission on Nov. 12, where the motion to recommend failed unanimously. Residents of Carovel Circle spoke during
the public hearing about their concerns with the property’s landscaping and upkeep, as well as their concerns that approval by the Council would lead to a breakdown in the street’s identity as a single-family neighborhood.
City Attorney Patrick Boone expressed his opinion that the council’s approval would in fact set a precedent, and that it would go against the city’s efforts in the past. Leavings said Elmore would be officially
informed of the Council’s decision, and the matter will be remanded to the municipal court. Depending on how Municipal Court Judge Tommy Spina rules, Elmore could possibly face a misdemeanor for the zoning violation. In other council business: ▶ City Manager Jeff Downes announced that there has been a significant delay in the house-moving project on Dolly Ridge Road for the future Meadowland Park. Downes said if the moving company does not make progress by Monday, the city will move forward with seeking out demolition services. ▶ The Council voted to adopt the 2014 Jefferson County Multi-Hazard Mitigation Plan that will allow the city to apply for funding during times of emergency. ▶ The Council approved an alcohol license for the Chevron Vestavia Mart at 2544 Rocky Ridge Road. ▶ A resolution to adopt and implement the 2014-2015 employee classification survey of the personnel board of Jefferson County was approved. ▶ The Council voted to approve the city’s disclosure controls and procedures required by the Security and Exchange Commission. ▶ The Council voted to amend a resolution to complete the landscaping and construction at Hollis Crossing.
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March 2016 • A7
First responders praised for Vestawood apartment fire rescues By EMILY FEATHERSTON The Vestavia Hills City Council presented certificates of commendation to four of Vestavia’s first responders for their actions during the Jan. 14 fire at Vestawood apartments. The Council presented commendations to police officers Jonathan Mitchell and Cory Sarvaunt; firefighter and paramedic Christopher Mareno; and Fire Capt. Shawn Jackson. The men were commended for their response to the fire and their rescue of a family of five that was trapped in the building. Chief Jim St. John read the commendation for each first responder, and Mayor Butch Zaragoza and the Council members present presented the plaques. “It just speaks volumes of the type of individuals in our police department and fire department,” Zaragoza said. Later in the meeting, the Council voted to repeal the ordinance passed Jan. 28 that allowed for the operation of transportation networking companies within the city, and instead amended the Vestavia Hills Code of Ordinances to establish operating standards and penalties for violations for those companies. Zaragoza said he and other members of the Council had been in talks with ride-booking service Uber over the last two weeks attempting to iron out the details of the changes, in order to make sure the council made the best decision. Ultimately, he said, he expects Uber to be part of Vestavia Hills in the near future. In other Council business: ► The Council also heard from Jim Coker, the director of the Jefferson County Emergency
The city recognizes firefighters who responded to the Vestawood apartment complex fire. Photo by Emily Featherston.
Management Agency about an emergency-alert system the county provides to the city, free of charge. ► City Manager Jeff Downes reported that because of citywide efforts to improve safety, the city’s workers-compensation premium has been reduced by $40,000.
► The Council approved a resolution allowing the city to apply to ADECA for a Land and Water Conservation Fund grant for the proposed Patchwork Nature Park at Patchwork Farms. ► The Council approved a request for an alcohol license for the new Chipotle Mexican
Grill on U.S. 31. ► The Council approved a request from Sprouts Farmers Market on U.S. 31 for an off-premises alcohol license. ► The Council approved a request for an off-premises alcohol license for Circle K Store 2723802.
A8 • March 2016
Vestavia Voice
City moves forward with Patchwork Farms park plans By EMILY FEATHERSTON One of the final pieces of the Patchwork Farms development puzzle is coming together, as the city of Vestavia Hills begins the early stages of developing 8.49 acres of the area into Patchwork Nature Park. “All of the plans had shown a nature component to the overall development,” City Manager Jeff Downes said, and added the area around the creek was identified early as the intended location. Downes said as the plans and developments evolved for the various commercial and residential areas throughout Patchwork Farms, the city was better able to determine what kind of park would fit best in the space. One of the main goals of the park is to have the space and amenities engage and connect with the overall development. Preliminary plans have trails connecting and benefiting Lifetime Fitness, the luxury apartments, Patchwork Reserve mixed-use retail area and other Patchwork Farms amenities. “What we were able to do is give some preliminary concepts on how a trail would fit within that nature area, and how that trail could have connections to existing areas around the park,” he said. In its efforts to provide the necessary infrastructure for Patchwork Farms as a whole, the city kept in mind that the work would ultimately also impact the park. Now that much of that infrastructure is in
place, Downes said, the city will move forward with the preliminary development of the park “to clean it up and make it accessible.” He said the city’s goal is to have construction plans for the basic aspects of the park by late spring or early summer. Then, over the next six months, the city will work to make the park as presentable as possible. After the initial work is complete, Downes said future amenity possibilities will be considered based on available funding. In January, the Vestavia Hills City Council voted to apply for a $150,000 Land and Water Conservation Fund grant from the Alabama Department of Economic and Community Affairs. If approved, the grant would be combined with the city’s match of $190,000 to construct trails and footbridges, as well as other possible amenities. Downes said the city should hear about the status of the application later this spring. After holding a planning meeting in January to hear ideas and concerns from residents, Downes said the city fully intends to utilize the designs of landscape architect Dave Giddens of Nimrod, Long and Associates. However, he said there will still be several opportunities for residents to provide feedback. Downes said the City Council will be required to vote on specific construction plans, funding and timelines, votes that will necessitate public hearings. “Our master plan always called for a green space,” Downes said. “It called for connectivity, and that’s what we want to deliver.”
Early plans for Patchwork Nature Park were shown at a planning meeting in January. Photo courtesy of the City of Vestavia Hills.
VestaviaVoice.com
March 2016 • A9
Mayor’s Minute
By Alberto “Butch” Zaragoza I would like to welcome Lifetime Resort and Publix to the city of Vestavia Hills. Lifetime Resort is under construction, and Publix will be starting shortly with their construction, and we’re glad to have them. Also, the City Council just went through our annual retreat. We went over our goals from 2015 and found that we had met most of them. We also looked at 2016 goals for how we want to see our city move forward. They’re all very positive. Looking at the financial aspect of the city, sales tax revenue this past month rose 9 percent, which is probably the biggest increase the city has ever seen. I’m excited about that and look forward to
additional retailers coming into the city to cause that type of increase, too. Building permits continue to show a good, strong future both for commercial and residential development. The city has exceeded what we anticipated so far this year for growth. If you have questions about city government, I encourage you to contact any council members, and we would be happy to talk with you. Sincerely,
Cahaba Ridge luxury retirement community is the newest portion of Patchwork Farms to break ground. Photo by Frank Couch.
Officials b eak ground for retirement community By FRANK COUCH Resort Lifestyles Communities did not let the rain dampen a groundbreaking celebration. The groundbreaking ceremony for Cahaba Ridge, a luxury retirement living community and the first RLC location in Alabama, was moved to nearby Altadena Valley Presbyterian Church due to rain. Kelly Jo Hinrichs, director of marketing and pre-open sales with Resort Lifestyles Communities, welcomed Vestavia Hills Chamber of Commerce members and guests to the event and shared details about Cahaba Ridge.
Hinrichs said studio, one-, two- and three-bedroom apartments would be available on a monthly contract at the three-story facility. She also said the facility would create 35-45 local jobs, and they will soon hold job fairs for those staff positions. Cahaba Ridge’s “all-inclusive” facility includes meals, planned activities, appointment transportation, an emergency call system and valet parking. Hinrichs also discussed a community feature at the facility — a 125-seat theater. After a brief presentation over lunch, attendees assembled for a large group picture to conclude the ceremony
Emergency notifi ation system available for Jefferson Co. residents Vestavia Hills residents can prepare for potential severe weather by signing up for Everbridge, a free notification system provided to local municipalities by Jefferson County. Everbridge alerts users to emergencies and potential hazards through different methods, including text messaging, phone calls and emails, depending on the user’s preference. Weather notifications, which make up the majority of alerts, result from official National Weather Service watches and warnings and are based on a user’s specific location. Users can sign up to receive a variety of weather notifications ranging from severe thunderstorm warnings to fog advisories, and all users receive tornado warning notifications. The program also allows users to enter critical medical information, such as hearing impairment
or the need for supplemental oxygen or insulin, and can alert local authorities of residents that may need urgent assistance in the event of a wide spread power outage or infrastructure failure. “It’s a huge step forward in this county,” Jefferson County EMA Director Jim Coker said. “This is why we do it: to give you as much time as we possibly can to make a critical decision.” Users can add multiple locations to their account, and Coker encouraged adding the locations residents work, have children in school or spend a lot of time. The program also allows users to select hours they would prefer not to be notified. To enroll in the Everbridge system, visit the jeffcoema.org and select the “Everbridge Citizen Alert Notification” tab.
A10 • March 2016
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Now Open Rocky Ridge Shell is now open at 2485 Rocky Ridge Road, at the intersection with Dolly Ridge Road. The convenience store and gas station replaces an older BP gas station that previously stood there. 822-7620, shell.us
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Supercuts is now open at 1031 Montgomery Highway, Suite 119, in the Sprouts shopping center. 978-7766, supercuts.com
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Papa Murphy’s Pizza is now open at 1031 Montgomery Highway, Suite 123. The pizza chain specializes in “take ’n’ bake” pizza. 978-7241, papamurphys.com
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America’s First Federal Credit Union has opened its new branch at 1112 Montgomery Highway. The site was formerly home of the Vestavia Hills Public Library. The branch has been under construction for a number of months. 582-5295, amfirst.org
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Coming Soon Sprouts Farmers Market has announced they will open their new store at 1031 Montgomery Highway on April 13. The 28,000-square-foot store has been under construction for several months, and it will be the store’s first location in Vestavia Hills. sprouts.com
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Ridge Retirement Commu6 Cahaba nity will be opening at 3090 Healthy Way. A groundbreaking ceremony for the new luxury retirement community was held January 26. 545-5976, cahabaridgeretirement.com Chipotle Mexican Grill will be opening soon at 1031 Montgomery Highway, Suite 111, in the Sprouts shopping center. chipotle.com
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March 2016 • A11
Relocations and Renovations Ascend Web Development recently moved into its new office at 1500 Urban Center Drive, Suite 440, and celebrated a ribbon-cutting and open house with the Vestavia Hills Chamber of Commerce on January 21. 203-9101, ascendwebdevelopment.com
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Hirings and Promotions
“When it rains, we drain!”
ARC Realty, 4274 Cahaba Heights Court, Suite 200, has hired Jenny Headley and Jan Collier as Realtors. 969-8910, arcrealtyco.com
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The Vestavia Hills Library Foundation, 1221 Montgomery Highway, has named Cinnamon McCulley as the organization’s executive director. She has extensive experience in marketing, having served as HealthSouth’s assistant vice president of marketing. She also serves on several boards within the Vestavia Hills community. 978-4632, vestavialibrary.org/about/ the-foundation/ 10
Anniversaries The Lili Pad, 3138 Heights Village, celebrated its 12th anniversary in February. 298-1811, facebook.com/thelilipad 11
Fancy Goods Variety, 2512 Rocky Ridge Road, Suite 102, celebrated its fourth anniversary in February. 978-1451 12
The Blue Willow, 3930 Crosshaven Drive, celebrates its 17th anniversary in March, and its fourth anniversary under the current ownership of Anna Barnes. 968-0909, facebook.com/thebluewillow/ 13
Business news
to share? Now Open Coming Soon
Relocation Expansion Anniversary
If you are in a brick and mortar business in Vestavia Hills and want to share your event with the community, let us know.
Email dan@vestaviavoice.com Email dan@starnespublishing.com
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A12 • March 2016
Vestavia Voice
Chamber
Preview of
Going far together
Luncheon
Superintendent gives state of the schools speech By SYDNEY CROMWELL Vestavia Hills City Schools Superintendent Sheila Phillips believes that, even though it may slow the process down, cooperation between the school system and community leads to better results in the long run for students. That was the message of Phillips’ State of the School System address at the Vestavia Hills Chamber of Commerce luncheon on Feb. 9. She recalled an African proverb that she had heard in a movie: “if you want to go fast, go alone; if you want to go far, go together.” Most of Phillips’ speech was centered on the work of people in the school system around her, rather than any individual accomplishments. She said that the teachers and administrators in Vestavia Hills are so highly driven that “all I have to do is step back and say ‘Go.’” “I regret we couldn’t fill the room with teachers because that’s where the magic happens for our kids,” Phillips said. “I am smart enough to know I am not the one making things happen.” The school system completed its strategic plan in the 2014-2015 school year, and part of that process was creating a new mission statement for kids to “learn without limits.” The mission statement includes the importance of a safe environment, community support, courage, creativity, diversity and providing multiple paths to a good future. Phillips said she also values transparency and accountability in the school system. The strategic plan includes professional development for teachers and a more active classroom, with new studies, activities and online options to engage students. Phillips
Sheila Phillips addresses the Chamber of Commerce at the February Luncheon. Photo by Sydney Cromwell.
said that rather than looking at test scores, Vestavia Hills City Schools are looking at students’ goals and interests to guide growth and improvement. In elementary schools, this shows up through creative makerspaces and language classes. In middle school, it’s the introduction of robotics classes, and students at Vestavia Hills High School have access to more advanced computer skills courses and programs such as the
Seal of Biliteracy for students who achieve bilingualism. “Those don’t come from the district level. Those things started in the classroom,” Phillips said. “There is no one that knows better than us in Vestavia Hills … how to serve our students.” Communication, both inside and outside the school system, is another element of the system’s new strategic plan. Phillips said that praise, advice and criticism from those who know the
MARCH The speaker for the March 8 luncheon is Pete Blank, training and development division manager with the Personnel Board of Jefferson County. Blank formerly worked with Disney and will be speaking on customer service and employee engagement lessons he learned while working at “the Happiest Place on Earth.” The luncheon will be at Vestavia Country Club, and reservations are $18 when made by the Friday before the luncheon. After that date, the cost is $25. Networking begins at 11:30 a.m., and the program begins at noon. Call 823-5011 for more details.
“pulse” of the city are valuable for the school system to move forward. “I prefer that we know all the thoughts that are out there to make a well-informed decision,” she said. Looking forward, Phillips said Vestavia City Schools have a $29 million reserve, but there is also a need to improve school facilities to match the quality of the education. Phillips has toured all the school system buildings and said there is a plan being prepared for renovations. “That reserve isn’t going to go that far,” Phillips said. “Trust that we are agonizing over every single penny spent within the district.” The chamber made a donation to the Vestavia Hills City Schools Foundation to thank Phillips for her speech.
VestaviaVoice.com
March 2016 • A13
Make brunch a breeze with Klingler’s take on cinnamon rolls
WHAT’S COOKING
By ERICA TECHO and CHERIE OLIVIER For the March edition of What’s Cooking, we asked Klingler’s European Bakery and Café for a brunch or breakfast recipe. Chef Edith Webster recommended cinnamon rolls because they are tasty when made in the traditional style and can also be changed up with creative flair. She showed us how to make a cranberry cinnamon roll, giving the classic recipe an easy twist. “There is nothing like the simplicity and the smell of old-fashioned cinnamon rolls baking,” Webster said.
Klingler’s European Bakery and Café chef Edith Webster drizzles icing on freshly baked cinnamon rolls. Photos by Erica Techo.
RECIPE:
► 1½ cups H&R all-purpose flour ► ½ cup high gluten flour ► 4 ounces butter ► 4 ounces shortening ► 1 cup granulated sugar ► 1 cup milk (add as needed for moisture) ► 1 teaspoon yeast ► ½ cup cranberries (if desired) ► 1 egg ► 2 cups water ► cinnamon sugar (1-to-1 ratio of cinnamon and granulated sugar) For the icing: ► 1 cup powdered sugar ► 4 ounces cornstarch ► 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
STEPS:
1. Mix first seven ingredients until desired stiffness, then roll out on table. 2. Make egg wash with one egg and 2 cups of water. Brush egg wash on dough. 3. Add cinnamon sugar to dough and, if desired, add cranberries if desired. 4. Roll dough into log shape and cut ¼- to ½-inch-thick pieces. 5. Place on baking sheet and bake at 350 degrees until slightly brown, approximately 15 minutes. 6. Mix icing ingredients. Heat to slightly liquid state and drizzle on top of cinnamon rolls.
Watch video of Webster baking a brunch treat:
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A14 • March 2016
Vestavia Voice
A month of giving
Franchisee aims to raise $100K for cancer research at Children’s of Alabama
By SYDNEY CROMWELL Most people are fortunate never to know the difficulties of being a child in an extended hospital stay. But Patrick Decker knows the feeling well – before he was even in school, a blood disorder kept him in a hospital for a year. Decker is now the owner of several Jersey Mike’s franchise locations in Hoover, Mountain Brook, Trussville, Opelika and a Vestavia store that opens this month. Each March, Jersey Mike’s franchisees across the country choose a local charity to support for the annual Month of Giving. Decker has participated for several years, giving to charities such as the Exceptional Foundation, the Lakeshore Foundation, Make-A-Wish and the Bell Center. This year, however, Decker felt it was time to choose a larger cause that’s close to his heart: pediatric cancer research at Children’s of Alabama. “I’ve had my eyes on Children’s [of Alabama] for a long time,” Decker said. His stores also donated in December to Children’s Sugarplum Shop for families in the hospital on Christmas. “This is the first year we had enough stores that we felt like we could make an impact,” said Katie Crago, Jersey Mike’s special events coordinator. Representatives at Children’s were just as excited to make the new partnership. Emily Hornak, the director of cause marketing at Children’s, had tried unsuccessfully to get in touch with Decker prior to the Sugarplum Shop. Then she received an email from him asking to partner for the project. “I couldn’t have been more excited,” Hornak said.
Patrick Decker discusses charity choice:
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Patrick Decker, Katie Crago, Emily Hornak and Adam Kelley pose inside one of the Jersey Mike’s locations that will be raising money this month for Children’s of Alabama. Photo by Sydney Cromwell.
“I think she was doing cartwheels in the office,” agreed Children’s Manager of Communications Adam Kelley. Decker’s Jersey Mike’s locations had the qualities that Children’s was looking for in a fundraising partner: a desire to give back to the community and strong local ties along with a large economic footprint in Birmingham. “Children’s of Alabama has many opportunities to make an impact,” Hornak said. “We find that when we partner with a company like Jersey Mike’s, that we get so much more ability to connect with the community not just through fundraising, but through the awareness.”
Decker’s goal is to raise $100,000 throughout March for pediatric cancer research across his five stores. For those looking to participate, there will be several ways to give back. Diners at Jersey Mike’s can give donations up to $3 at the register and receive a $1 off coupon in exchange, and 25 percent of proceeds from March catering orders will also be donated. Crago said Jersey Mike’s will be selling T-shirts with 100 percent of the proceeds going to Children’s, and an online auction, including trips and entertainment packages. This will be capped off by the Day of Giving on Wednesday, March 30, when 100
percent of sales will go to Children’s. “We want the people who care about Children’s to invest in our business partners, and this is an opportunity for them to go support someone who is supporting us,” Hornak said. Decker is taking a “no stone unturned” approach to getting the word out about the Month of Giving. Along with talking to regular and college newspapers and radio stations, Decker said he will also be mailing about 400,000 coupons out to area homes. The coupons will include special offers for those who bring them in and donate. Hornak said the donations will go
to research at Children’s and “soft services” for children being treated for cancer: social workers, child life specialists, art and music therapy and other “programs that we as a hospital provide because it is important to the care of the patient and to the whole family.” “We’re really looking forward to working and making a statement to the community that Jersey Mike’s and Children’s are working together to make as much funds and awareness as we can,” Hornak said. $100,000 is a big goal, but Decker is confident that his team will reach it. That’s due in part to the employees who are “very excited” to be supporting Children’s, and partly due to the customers at Jersey Mike’s. “Jersey Mike’s is built off of regulars,” Decker said. “Seventy-five percent of our customers are people who eat here every other day. We know their names, our employees know what sandwich they want before they get out of the car. It’s just that type of family kind of push that we know they’re going to want to get involved. “We know they want to do something like this, and that’s why they’ll come and eat at Jersey Mike’s to raise money,” he continued. For more about the Month of Giving and how to get involved, visit onesubatatime.org.
Vestavia’s ‘hometown pizza joint’ In the fall of 2011, Robert Sullivan knew that he had to own Donatos Pizza in Vestavia. Robert grew up in Vestavia and was looking for his next opportunity after 30 years in the pharmaceutical industry. The little pizza joint on U.S. 31 in Vestavia had always been his go-to place for catering, and when he stopped in one day for lunch, the then-owner, whom he knew quite well, approached him and said, “I’ve been thinking about selling the place and think you would be a great person to turn the business over to!” Robert had not worked in the restaurant industry since he delivered pizzas for Dominos in college at Auburn, but he told the guy that he would think about it. Robert didn’t think long. He looked at the financials and decided that not only was the local Donatos franchise a great business, but it had huge growth potential. Robert took over the
Robert Sullivan, owner business in 2012, and it’s been a success ever since. One thing Robert decided from the start was that his Donatos, which is a chain out of Columbus, Ohio, would be a fixture in the
Vestavia community. Early on, he secured sponsorships for several Vestavia sports teams, including baseball, soccer and football. Robert also, continuing a tradition started by the previous
owner, hosts Vestavia East field trips throughout the school year during which students see how pizzas are made and get to make their own pizza. Customers who are now adults come in to this day with fond memories of their field trip experience at Donatos. This tradition has been going on so long that he recently found “pizza maker” certificates that were awarded to his younger two sons, who are now 24 and 22 years old. For the adults in Vestavia, Robert took the advice of several friends and added both draft and bottled beer, which have been a huge success. He also has stepped up the décor with sports memorabilia from Vestavia, Alabama and Auburn, which both he and his three sons attended. All in all, Robert Sullivan has turned Donatos Vestavia into his dream — the Vestavia “hometown pizza joint.”
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VestaviaVoice.com
March 2016 • A15
Letting dogs be dogs By SYDNEY CROMWELL For visitors to Howlin’ Hollows Farm, the clear focal point is the large barn with its freshly stained lumber and bright red roof. Owners Scott and Kimi Welch, however, take more pride in the fenced play areas that surround the barn on three sides. Howlin’ Hollows Farm opened in mid-December at 4420 Sicard Hollow Road, near the Sicard Hollow Athletic Complex and Liberty Park Middle School. The facility offers boarding and doggie daycare centered around one idea, Scott said: being “a place for a dog to be a dog.” That philosophy was born out of the Welchs’ own experience in boarding their Labrador retrievers in places that didn’t offer many exercise options. Based on their history owning and training dogs, Kimi said their priority in opening Howlin’ Hollows Farm was the outdoor play area. Inside the barn, there is room for 35 boarding animals, plus six cat enclosures, and the Welchs decide how many dogs to admit for daycare depending on their workload each day. The Welchs live in a loft at the barn, which Kimi said is ideal in case an issue comes up with an overnight boarder. Outside, there’s thousands of square feet for large dogs to run and play, separate enclosures for small or older dogs who want a calmer experience and a natural area that has trees, pine straw and a waterfall and pond feature that will open when the weather gets warmer. Kimi said they monitor dogs
Howlin’ Hollows Farm • WHERE: 4420 Sicard Hollow Road • HOURS: Mon.-Fri., 7:30 a.m.-6 p.m., Sat. 3-5 p.m. • CALL: 977-7245 • WEB: howlinhollowsfarm. com
Kimi and Scott Welch, along with their dogs Diamond, Hoss and Savvy, recently opened Howlin’ Hollows Farm boarding and doggie daycare facility. Photo by Sydney Cromwell.
throughout the day to let them in and out of the barn as they wish. There’s also the pool, which Kimi said many dogs, especially their own Labs, love jumping into even on cold winter days. It is specially designed with a gradual slope to enter or exit at each end, instead of steps, and varying
depths in the middle. “Our whole outdoor area – there’s no one else in town like that. We built this so a dog can be a dog and run around and play outside,” Kimi said. Despite opening in winter and dealing with rain and cold, Kimi said Howlin’ Hollows Farm has gotten
positive responses from pet owners so far and several dogs are already daycare regulars. Her favorite part of the job is meeting the variety of dogs, and dog owners, in Birmingham. “It’s very rewarding. We’ve met a lot of great people, a lot of great
animals, and we also want the environment to be a fun environment,” Kimi said. “[Dogs] are just like humans, none of their personalities are the same.” The Welchs want to hire a groomer to add more services at Howlin’ Hollows Farm, as well as a trainer. Both Scott and Kimi train their dogs to compete in American Kennel Club retriever field trials, where the dog must locate and retrieve a game bird. Howlin’ Hollows Farm has room to add more boarding space in the future, but Scott and Kimi agree that the growth will be carefully limited. “It’s more quality than quantity,” Kimi said. “We’re not here to pack in a bunch of dogs because it makes the dogs unhappy, it gets loud, it gets stinky. So that’s not our intention.” Outside the barn walls, there’s more opportunity to expand. Kimi said they have more land that they could clear to create new spots for the dogs to play in the future. “Because that’s really what the dogs want to do,” Kimi said.
A16 • March 2016
VestaviaVoice.com
Vestavia Voice
March 2016 • A17
“
Educator gleans life lesson from diagnosis
You learn that you’re vulnerable and that you don’t want anyone else to go through that, but you can’t feel sorry for yourself.
By SYDNEY CROMWELL At first, Alice Laurendine could easily explain away the downturn in her health. Backaches weren’t surprising, as she had already had two back surgeries. Weight gain and bloating could be easily explained away. Frequent fatigue? Well, Laurendine was in her 60s and had always been one to stay too busy. As the symptoms continued, the Hoover resident and retired Vestavia Hills educator began researching pancreatic, colon and other different types of cancer. But she was diagnosed in 2008 with the one thing she never thought to research: ovarian cancer. It seemed impossible — Laurendine had a hysterectomy and her ovaries removed 23 years ago. “I didn’t even think about ovarian cancer because I had my ovaries removed,” Laurendine said. “Maybe if I had, I’m not sure I would have accepted that thought anyway.” Laurendine was one of the first teachers at Vestavia Hills High School when it opened in 1970, and she said the principal would joke that she was the very first one hired. She left Birmingham City Schools to work for the brandnew school system, and she described those years as an “ideal time.” “It was just a dream to work with people who truly loved kids [and] cared about what they learned,” Laurendine said. After taking time off once her daughter was born, Laurendine was a member of the Vestavia Hills Board of Education, then worked for the state Department of Education and was the first
principal of Our Lady of the Valley Catholic School on Cahaba Valley Road. When her daughter entered high school, Laurendine returned to Vestavia Hills High School in 1986 as an assistant principal. In the early 1990s, Laurendine moved to the principal position at Vestavia Hills Elementary West, where she stayed until she retired in 2005. She still has a mock cover of the Birmingham News that teachers and students at the school made after her retirement announcement to show their appreciation. No matter what position she held, Laurendine said, her decisions were always guided by a focus on the students’ best interests, and her most rewarding days were when students would say that they didn’t want to go to school anywhere else. “We moved beyond what was expected of ourselves. We could see that there was something else,” Laurendine said of her time in the Vestavia Hills school system.
‘THE NEW NORMAL’
At 67, Laurendine first began experiencing symptoms of cancer. When a day of severe abdominal pain made her unable to attend a football game or later sleep, Laurendine’s husband took note. Around 4 a.m., he suggested they go to the emergency room. Laurendine is glad she didn’t argue.
Alice Laurendine, a former principal at Vestavia Hills Elementary West and one of the first Vestavia Hills High School teachers, sits at her Hoover home. Photo by Sydney Cromwell.
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“If I had refused, I mean, who knows what would have happened,” Laurendine said. At the emergency room, doctors found a cancerous mass where her ovaries would have been. Laurendine, her husband and daughter were all in disbelief when they found out. “You can have everything removed, you can have a complete hysterectomy. You have reduced the risk, you have not removed the risk. And that’s what happened to me,” Laurendine said. Surgery to remove the mass was quickly followed by a round of chemotherapy. Laurendine cycled between good days — when she could drive and see people — and bad days — when she wouldn’t leave the house. She kept flowers and cards all around her home for encouragement, but occasionally found herself crying in the kitchen at night because she couldn’t believe the diagnosis. “It was hard because I had cancer. I mean, the big C-word,” Laurendine said. “Cancer was something I knew nothing about.” Throughout the process, Laurendine said she couldn’t have kept up her spirits without faith and the support of her family and friends. This included her beautician, who took care of Laurendine’s hair at no charge as soon as it began to fall out from the chemo. In the midst of doctor’s visits and tests, Laurendine went back to her roots in education. “During that I had time to think. And I
thought, ‘I’m supposed to do something with this.’ And I thought, ‘OK, awareness is my thing. I can teach people about awareness,’” Laurendine said. While she doesn’t make ovarian cancer the center of her life, Laurendine shares her story and answers questions when friends connect her with women diagnosed with ovarian cancer or their family members. She has a packet ready with information and questions to ask doctors, so others aren’t caught unprepared like she was. “You learn a lot. You learn that you’re vulnerable and that you don’t want anyone else to go through that, but you can’t feel sorry for yourself,” she said. However, she’s also careful about what she shares, so she doesn’t overwhelm women as they come to grips with their diagnosis. “It can scare somebody if they heard what you might be going through, might be too difficult,” Laurendine said. “There are moments I look back and think, ‘How did I get through that?’” One of the valuable lessons Laurendine learned from her unlikely diagnosis was how to deal with enormous problems one day at a time. “That’s your life, so you can’t say, ‘When this is over I’ll …’” Laurendine said. “You’ve got to think in terms of ‘This is the new normal for me and we will deal with it today, and tomorrow we’ll deal with that then.’”
22,000 estimated cases of ovarian cancer that will be diagnosed this year
1 IN 75 a woman’s risk of getting ovarian cancer in her lifetime
46%
survival rate over five years
5
th
ovarian cancer rank in cancer deaths among women; first among gynecological cancers
63+
ages when ovarian cancer is more likely to develop SOURCE: AMERICAN CANCER SOCIETY, OVARIAN CANCER NATIONAL ALLIANCE
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A18 • March 2016
Village Living
Vestavia sisters realize dreams of professional modeling By RACHEL BURCHFIELD The Champion sisters — Baskin and Abby — have left the familiar confines of the South for Los Angeles, where they both now live and work as models. Aside from the trademarked Southern hospitality her hometown of Vestavia Hills offers, Baskin misses something one might not expect a model to long for. “I love fried food and cheese dip, which LA does not have,” she said. The Champions are proud Southerners and VHHS graduates. “Whenever people ask me where I’m from and I respond ‘Alabama,’ they always give me a weird look or call me a hick,” Abby said. “But to me, growing up in Alabama is amazing. It teaches you to have good manners, enjoy good food and reminds me of the importance of faith and family.” It is a sentiment her sister echoes. Baskin, the older of the two, said she always knew she wanted to be a model. In high school, her dreams were affirmed when someone told her she should pursue it. Her career began modeling for small boutiques around Birmingham, but Baskin wanted more. During her freshman year at Auburn, she was crowned Miss Alabama Teen USA 2014, which helped her get out of her comfort zone. While she was the reigning titleholder, the company Show Me Your MuMu noticed not just Baskin but her sister, Abby, and flew the sisters to Los Angeles to shoot for them. “Those shoots were and still are my favorite shoots ever,” Baskin said. “I love the people and the environment, and of course being in LA did not hurt.” During her sophomore year at Auburn, Baskin
decided to take the next year off from school and move to Miami, where she was signed with Wilhelmina Miami. Since January, she’s been back in Los Angeles permanently, but travels often for her career. “I have had the opportunity to travel to Ecuador, Mexico, Colombia and so on for modeling,” she said. “It has been really amazing.” Abby watched her older sister’s success and eventually began modeling too. “Baskin ultimately got into modeling first and she brought me into modeling with Soca and some other brands,” Abby said. “I was able to watch and learn from her as she began. We signed with agencies around the same time a little while later.” It was while the Champion family was watching Baskin compete in Miss Teen USA 2014 that Abby herself got noticed. “A man named Ramiro came up and asked me if I was a model,” Abby said. “I told him no, and he asked to meet with me and my parents. I was a little hesitant but I thought why not, and the next morning ate breakfast with him and his assistant. After talking for a short time he asked if he could set up a meeting for me with Next Models. What else could I say but ‘absolutely!’’ A couple of weeks later was a Show Me Your MuMu shoot in Los Angeles, and after the shoot was finished, Abby contacted Next Models’ Los Angeles office and met with them. “That day I became a Next Model and started my career in the industry,” she said. That was a little over a year ago, she said. “There are many highlights to my career, including being able to travel to different parts of the world and to meet so many cool and interesting people,” Abby said. “I am very thankful for the opportunities I have been given and for all the
The Champion sisters, Abby (left) and Baskin, are both professional models living and working in Los Angeles. Their modeling work has taken them from their hometown of Vestavia Hills to locations all over the world. Photo courtesy of Abby Champion.
support my friends and family have given to me.” It wasn’t easy to leave those friends and family behind in Vestavia Hills, Abby said. “After graduation, leaving behind my best friends and my family was difficult,” she said. “In addition, I was leaving behind all the things I was comfortable with and the things I was familiar with.
Even though I am away from home, a part of me will always miss the food, the people and the comfort of home.” However, Abby knew that to reach her goals of becoming a professional model, she’d have to leave behind the old and embrace the new. “These past nine months have been incredible,” she said. “I can’t wait for the new opportunities this year will offer. I am planning on it being the best year ever.” So far, Abby’s career includes shoots with JD Sports, Guess and American Eagle — and one shoot where she saw a familiar face. “It was funny because we both booked Aeropostale through our different agents in Miami,” Abby said. “We did not know that we had booked the same job until we were talking on the phone one night. The job ended up being super fun and I was very happy to work with [Baskin].” The sisters don’t normally get booked together because they have different looks, Abby said. “Anytime I get to shoot with her, I very much enjoy it and always have a good time,” she said. Up next for the sisters? Growing and working as a model, Baskin said. “Every model has her dream jobs, but you have to have your eye on the prize to stand out and actually book them,” Abby said. “I am very excited for this year and hope that all the work I’m putting in will pay off.” Her future is shaped by her past and her upbringing in Vestavia Hills. “Living in Vestavia Hills has shaped my life in so many positive ways because it has given me a good foundation and an idea of what I want to do with my life,” Abby said. “It’s not impossible to follow your dreams. If you work hard and know what you want, you can do anything you imagine.”
VestaviaVoice.com
March 2016 • A19
Meditating on life By SYDNEY CROMWELL Breathe in, breathe out. It’s a simple act. You do it thousands of times every day. But breathing is also the core of Darlene Waters’ meditation practice. Waters has been teaching meditation for more than 20 years. She started simple – a few moments sitting cross-legged on the bed each morning – to make herself a more patient parent. This led to learning in classes and eventually teaching to share the benefits that meditation gave her to others. “It definitely can bring a sense of calm, peace and clarity,” Waters said. “That is a very different place to go through life instead of constant kneejerk reacting.” Regular meditation has been shown to reduce stress levels and increase positive outlook, and some studies have connected it to reduced symptoms of pain, depression, high blood pressure, heart disease and anxiety. Despite this, Waters said most people aren’t familiar with the practice. “Life is crazy. We’re always being pulled in all these different directions,” Waters said. “So if you have a tool, most people would use it, they’re just not aware it exists.” There are many styles of meditation, some using mantras, candles or music. In Waters’ classes at PH Balanced Fitness in Vestavia Hills, she uses breathing to redirect her
Waters said common reactions to meditating mirror what she has seen in her own life: more compassion and less stress. Photos by Sydney Cromwell.
clients’ focus inside themselves. She describes herself as something of a “mechanic” as she leads the class, redirecting people’s thoughts and energy when they have difficulty focusing. Some of Waters’ clients have been coming to her classes for 15 years. “Teaching is the best way to learn. No question. My students have always
and continue to be my best teachers,” Waters said. “It’s not about what you know. It’s about what you can help them with.” First time students often come in with hesitations or a lack of information. Waters said some confuse meditation with yoga or think they can completely achieve perfect inner focus or enlightenment in a week. She
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said the best way to approach meditation is as a mental trip to the gym, which takes time and effort just like a physical workout. Some also worry that meditation is incompatible with their religious faith in some way. While meditation can be linked to praying or spiritual practices in many religions, Waters said that the practice at its most basic level is about
relaxation and self-awareness, not a particular religion. “It is what you make of it,” she said. For those who overcome those hesitations and begin taking meditation classes, Waters said at first they typically find it easier to meditate in the group rather than at home. When they make it a daily practice, the effects of meditation begin to show in their lives. “After a couple months they’ll come in and say, ‘You know I’ve been doing that as you suggested, and I didn’t have time the other day. I was rushed. And you know, my whole day was different. It was just off,’” Waters said. These reactions mirror what Waters has seen in her own life: more compassion, less stress and the ability to calm herself in difficult situations. “It’s my passion to be able to share it with others, to give them the skill that changed my life,” Waters said. Waters also teaches classes at Lemon Tree Yoga and began new classes at Villager Yoga in Cahaba Heights at the end of February. She wants to offer a basic meditation class for businesses looking to offer the service to employees. From community centers to schools and nursing homes, Waters said she’d like to see meditation in any place that people gather. “Everyone can benefit. There’s really nowhere I wouldn’t like to see it,” Waters said.
A20 • March 2016
Vestavia Voice
The voices on the radio
Operator makes global connections with ham hobby By SYDNEY CROMWELL
The crackle of radio static is one of the first sounds Jerry Fiore hears in the morning. From the antenna in his Vestavia Hills backyard, Fiore can listen to what’s going on around the world. For 60 years, Fiore has been a licensed amateur radio operator — sometimes called a “ham.” His Federal Communications Commission license enables him to broadcast over the airwaves under his own call sign, N4JF, and talk to other hams in any country that his signal can reach. After six decades, Fiore said he’s talked to someone in every country around the globe, with only one — North Korea — not being officially confirmed. He has boxes of QSL cards, which are mailed between operators to formally recognize communication, from major countries and tiny islands. Each sender personalizes the card with their call sign and decoration, which could include a picture of the ham operator or something iconic from their country. Fiore said he will sometimes take out a box and flip through the cards, recalling the conversations he’s had. “There are people of every aspect,” Fiore said. “I can’t tell how many people I’ve met. I have friends that I still talk to.” His contact list includes some royalty: a former king of Thailand and Hussein bin Talal, the former King of Jordan. In Fiore’s basement, alongside hundreds of plaques and certificates from various amateur radio competitions, there is a framed QSL card from King Hussein from 1970, including the envelope postmarked from
Above: Jerry Fiore holds his amateur radio vehicle tag in front of his ham radio equipment. On the wall are a few of the plaques he’s won in amateur radio contests over the 60 years he’s been involved in the hobby. Photos by Sydney Cromwell.
the royal palace in Jordan. “Not many people have one of those,” Fiore said. “You won’t know it’s him unless you recognize his call sign.” Fiore discovered ham radio as a teenager. He would listen to the radio at night and eventually
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stumbled upon an amateur channel, which led to the discovery that a man in his neighborhood, named Seymour, was a ham. Seymour showed Fiore his equipment and how to get a license of his own. At 15 years old, Fiore learned Morse code,
which is still one of his favorite ways to communicate, and got his license. In 1955 he built his very first radio, which sits nearby the more modern equipment he uses today. “My daddy brought this piece of aluminum home and I bent it to make the chassis,” Fiore
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said. “I built it when I was 15 years old and I’ve still got it!” His early ham days transformed into a lifelong career as a broadcast engineer. Fiore worked for WCRT FM radio, then at Channel 42 for more than 20 years. He said he especially enjoyed working at Channel 42, where the staff included other ham operators he already knew. Fiore also worked in public access communications, maintaining microwave equipment and weather radios. “[When] you’ve got a storm coming and something happened to one of those, you better get ready to go. You might get a call at one in the morning,” Fiore recalled. Those emergency communications also cross over into the ham world. In floods, tornadoes and other events that knock out cell phone and Internet communication, Fiore and other hams can pick up their equipment, powered by battery and generator, and provide emergency communications at the site of a disaster. Fiore participates in annual “field days,” where hams test their ability to respond in a potential emergency. Over the years of ham operation, Fiore has made many connections through the radio. A regular contact from Japan traveled to Birmingham to spend a week
March 2016 • A21
with Fiore, enjoying his company and connecting Fiore with his first Cambodian operator in the process. Fiore also remembers befriending a ham from Mountain Brook and losing contact with him for about 50 years. They happened to reconnect and the man, now living in Florida, returns to Birmingham once a year to attend Hamfest, the annual convention for Birmingham operators. This year’s Hamfest is March 4-5 at the Zamora Shrine Temple, and Fiore said it’s a great chance to meet the people behind the voices he knows on the radio. In retirement, Fiore enjoys building and working on radios and checking in on different channels every morning to “see if I’m missing something” happening in the world. He can hold a conversation while listening to the steady sound of Morse code coming from his radio, and let you know if the hams are talking about their favorite coffee or the outcome of a football game. The immense variety of people talking over the airwaves has made ham radio Fiore’s favorite hobby for most of his life. “I turn my radio on and there’s no telling who I’ll talk to,” he said.
Jerry Fiore built his first ham radio, seen above left, when he was 15 years old. In 1970, Jerry Fiore talked to King Hussein of Jordan through ham radio. The king sent a card, above, from the royal palace confirming they had spoken.
Vestavia Voice
A22 • March 2016
summer camp
G U I D E special advertising section
As days turn warmer, it’s time to start thinking about summertime at last, and no summer is complete without a camp experience. Peruse our guide to learn more about which programs best fit your child’s personality, interest, age and availability. No matter which you choose, it’s time to jump in for fun and adventure this summer!
Cahaba Park Church
Cahaba Park Church’s Studio C is the perfect summer camp for the art enthusiast. Studio C is for children who turn four years old on or before September 1, 2016, through rising fourth graders. Children will enjoy classes in the visual arts, musical arts and culinary arts. “This is a hands-on event for boys and girls in which they will learn about the arts from a biblical perspective. God has blessed each of us with gifts and abilities to serve Him and others. Discovering and developing those in a fun environment is what Studio C is all about,” said Adam Wright, Chief Musician at Cahaba Park Church. With a unique leadership team and many creative activities, there is something for every child that attends. The camp will conclude on July 22 with VIBRANT, Cahaba Park’s second annual music and arts festival. This event is free and open to the community. Studio C takes place July 18-22, 9 a.m.-12
Cahaba Park Church at the Carraway-Davie House • WHERE: 4465 Old Overton Road • CALL: 870-1886 • WEB: cahabapark.org/sign-up
p.m., and cost is $75. Children will participate in three unique sessions each day: visual arts (mixed media), musical arts (guitar, percussion, vocal) and culinary arts (food prep and presentation). Camp facilitators include Ken Stuart, assistant pastor for children’s and family ministries, and Adam Wright, chief musician. Space is limited and early registration is recommended.
summer camp
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G U I D E
March 2016 • A23
special advertising section
YMCA Summer Day Camp focuses on youth development Youth development is the social, emotional, cognitive, and physical processes that all youth uniquely experience from birth to career. A successful developmental process fulfills children and teens’ innate need to be loved, spiritually grounded, educated, competent and healthy. Trading stories and sharing a favorite book or song with a new friend. Being greeted with smiles and high-fives from staff and teammates after scoring the winning point. Always fitting in, just for being you. This is what Summer Day Camp at the YMCA of Greater Birmingham is all about — ensuring kids get more out of their summer break: more friendships, more achievement, and more belonging. The Y is a place where kids feel safe, welcomed and can express their individuality in an environment that provides positive relationships, encourages parent engagement, and helps children realize their passions and talents. It’s also loads of fun! To learn more or to register, go online to ymcabham.org/best-summer. Other YMCA Summer Opportunities YMCA Camp Cosby The YMCA of Greater Birmingham’s sleepaway camp, Camp Cosby, offers a one-week, co-ed, safe and structured experience for children ages 6 to 16 on the shores of Logan Martin Lake. YMCA Camp Cosby gives children a chance to play hard, make new friends, and have the adventure of a lifetime in a safe, fun and structured environment. Your camper will develop new skills, gain confidence, make friends and have an amazing experience. campcosby.org
200+ wooded acres complete with swimming pool, hiking trails, fields for games, rock face for climbing, and our own private lake, it is the perfect backdrop for the traditional camp activities that we offer. Activities include: ►Hiking ►Fishing ►Canoeing ►Lake swimming ►Archery ►Rock climbing ymcabham.org/hargisretreat
YMCA Hargis Retreat Unlike other day camp programs, Summer Day Camp at Hargis is really camp! Located on
Summer Adventures In Learning (S.A.I.L.) The Summer Adventures In Learning program works with struggling students in grades 3-5 who
BEST
TIME
EVER!
BEST. SUMMER. EVER.
Summer Day Camp
YMCA OF GREATER BIRMINGHAM #BestSummerEver
REGISTER TODAY!
ymcabham.org/bestsummer
need extra help. Summer Adventures In Learning is designed to help prevent learning loss, offer chances to explore new interests and skills and close the achievement gap for children from lower income communities. ymcabham.org/sail THINGAMAJIG® Invention Convention Friday, July 22 THINGAMAJIG® is a daylong event that combines STEM (science, technology, engineering, and math), active fitness and play, creative eco-art, and team challenges into one child-focused festival. Learn more online at ymcabham.org/ thingamajig.
YMCA Day Camp • WHERE: 2086 Columbiana Road • CALL: 823-0144 • WEB: ymcabham.org/vestavia
A24 • March 2016
summer camp
G U I D E
Vestavia Voice
special advertising section
Vestavia Hills Soccer Club The Vestavia Hills Soccer Club offers an excellent lineup of summer soccer camps for your soccer enthusiast including Got Skills Camps on July 11-15 and July 18-21 from 9 a.m.–noon for boys and girls ages 4-14 for $150; University of Soccer July 18-21 from 9 a.m.-3 p.m. for boys and girls ages 8 to 14 for $250; and the Keeper Striker Camp, July 22-24, Friday from 6 p.m.-9 p.m., Saturday from 9 a.m.-noon and Sunday 1 p.m. to 3 p.m. for boys and girls ages 8-19 for $175. All camps take place at the Sicard Hollow Athletic Complex. Got Skillz Camp features Girls Director of Coaching AJ Adcock, as well as the expert VHSC staff to hone campers’ skills while developing new ones. Got Skillz Camp is open to both recreational and competitive soccer players in July. The camp focuses on development and, of course, having fun! Players have fun on the field daily
from 9 a.m. –noon, Monday through Thursday at the Sicard Hollow Athletic Complex. Players will enjoy activities that include focusing on skill development and small-sided games. The University of Soccer, touted as the best day camp in the Southeast, celebrates its sixth anniversary with early sign-up discounts with $15 off of the registration fee of $250 for early birds. Join experienced coaches from around the South, along with Vestavia Soccer’s excellent full-time staff for a great week of soccer. There are small groups for training and plenty of water breaks with snacks provided daily at camp closing. Campers will receive excellent coaching with low player to coach ratios. There are Team Talks after lunch with guest speakers and session reviews for participants. Campers will receive a University of Soccer jersey and will take part in the popular World Cup Tournament
each afternoon. The very popular Keeper-Striker Camp focuses include all aspects of the game in and around the penalty area and goal. From shot stopping to volleys and crossing and finishing, the Keeper-Striker is a great way to stay active over the summer and perfect those techniques in and around the goal. Camp Director Rocky Harmon leads the charge with old time friend and ex-professional GK Marine Kano. Marine Cano is coming to the Keeper-Striker Camp all the way from California, where he is a collegiate coaching legend. Currently the coach at Soka University, Cano is the former coach at UC Irvine, where he coached the women’s soccer team for 12 seasons. He is the 11th alltime winningest women’s coach in Division I history. He also led the Cal State Dominguez Hills women’s team to an NCAA Division II
Vestavia Hills Soccer Club • WHERE: 1973 Merryvale Road • CALL: 978-0182 • WEB: vestaviasoccer.com
national championship in 1991. Coach Cano has worked with such National team members as Julie Foudy, Carin (Jennings) Gabarra and Joy (Fawcett) Biefield. Campers will never forget training with this nine-year professional player and member of the 1976 U.S. National team.
summer camp
VestaviaVoice.com
March 2016 • A25
G U I D E special advertising section
The Altamont School
Summer at Altamont is open to interested first- through 12th graders from all schools with an eclectic array of exciting choices for campers, from sports and music to theater and astronomy, among many others. Camp takes place from June 6-July 15. Courses and camps offered at Altamont during the summer bring exciting options for acceleration, enrichment and credit. Summer programs are a great way for prospective families to learn about Altamont and current students to get ahead for the upcoming year. Credit Courses: High school credit courses include Altamont-required half-credit courses Speech, Laboratory Technology and Health, plus full-credit courses in Honors Geometry and ninth Grade Honors Ancient and Medieval Civilizations. Elective Classes: Offerings for middle and elementary students include photography, astronomy, cooking, theater, languages and so much more. We also have enrichment classes in math and English, as well as an intensive writing
The Altamont School • WHERE: 4801 Altamont Road South • CALL: 879-2006 • WEB: altamontschool.org/summer
workshop. Sports and Music Camps: Hugely popular basketball and soccer day camps are open to players of all skill levels, from rising first through rising 12th grade. New music offerings this year include band camp, jazz camp and string camp. Whether it’s enrichment, enlightenment, entertainment, merriment, advancement or just a way to burn off some of that pent-up energy, Altamont has what your child needs this summer: something constructive to do.
Primrose Summer Adventure Club Looking for a new option for your children this summer? Primrose Summer Adventure Club balances fun with learning to inspire imaginations and avoid learning loss. Many organizations offer summer camps that engage children in fun activities and discovery. At the Primrose Summer Adventure Club, children enjoy exploring interesting topics and continue learning through purposeful play. The Primrose Summer Adventure Club builds active minds, healthy bodies and happy hearts through: • Engagement. Parents often worry about their children forgetting lessons learned in school by not exercising their minds enough over the long summer break. Keeping the brain stimulated and continuing to learn every day is important for little ones, as their brains are constantly developing. At Primrose’s Summer Adventure Club, children participate in fun activities that simultaneously reinforce important skills like reading and math, keeping them engaged and learning. • Activities. According to the Center for Disease Control and Prevention, children should participate in 60 minutes or more of physical activity every day to stay fit and healthy. The Primrose Summer Adventure Club provides a great opportunity for children to get off the couch and interact with other children through games and activities. Primrose children also engage in purposeful play through the school’s Thumbs Up! physical health and development and outdoor play program. • Fun. Having fun and learning go handin-hand. At the Primrose Summer Adventure Club, children have the opportunity to play with ideas, build friendships, exercise their imaginations and even explore new places. • Discovery. Discovering something new
Primrose Summer Adventure Club • WHERE: 1800 Urban Center Parkway • CALL: 969-8202 • WEB: primroselibertypark.com every day is the basis for learning. With creative weekly themes and stimulating activities, children engage in exciting lessons on a variety of topics. From music to math to sports, the Primrose Summer Adventure Club fosters a love of learning. Summer programs that include educational components are becoming increasingly popular options for parents looking for summer child care. By visiting local summer programs in the community and talking with the staff and teachers, families can match their summer goals. We encourage families to visit our school and see how beneficial our summer program can be for their child’s development! To learn more about the summer experience at Primrose School at Liberty Park please visit primroselibertypark.com or call 969-8202.
This summer, imaginations take ffl light.
NOW ENROLLING! Experience the excitement of our Summer Adventure Club where imaginations are free to run wild. Get ready for engineering design challenges, discoveries, outdoor exploration and more. It’s going to be one epic summer. Fun for ages 5 – 10.*
Learn more at PrimroseSummer.com. Off-site Field Trips • Snacks & Lunch Included
Weekly Themed Activities • Great for Rising 1st, 2nd and 3rd Graders
Primrose School at Liberty Park
1800 Urban Center Parkway | Vestavia Hills, AL 35242 205.969.8202 | PrimroseLibertyPark.com Each Primrose School is a privately owned and operated franchise. Primrose Schools is a trademark of Primrose School Franchising Company. ©2016 Primrose School Franchising Company. All rights reserved. *Ages for Summer Adventure Club programs vary by location.
A26 • March 2016
summer camp
G U I D E
Vestavia Voice
special advertising section
Find your place at RMTC
For kids who feel like all the world’s a stage, Red Mountain Theatre Company’s education workshops and camps provide the opportunity to hone singing, dancing and acting skills. With six different offerings, these programs are not just for the experienced actors. The Basic and Blast Bootcamps are non-auditioned. Basic Bootcamp is geared toward children ages 4-6 for the development of their creative skills. Each week, students will use music, crafts, dance and drama to explore a different theme such as Under
the Sea, Superheroes or Fairytales. The other non-audition type camps are Blast Bootcamp and Spring Break Blast, which teaches kids and teens ages 7-18 all the basic skills of musical theater through music, dance and acting. Students can audition for the Recruit, Intermediate and Advanced Bootcamps on March 12 and 13. Recruits, ages 7-18, will learn specialized skills like improvisational comedy, jazz dance and choral singing. This camp focuses on enhancing the performance skills of all young
artists. Intermediate Bootcamp is for students ages 9-15 who are ready to take their theater training to the next level. Students will gain skills in intermediate dance steps and song interpretation. Advanced Bootcamp is for students ages 13-18 who will focus on learning complex production numbers straight from the Broadway stage. Students train for three weeks to become triple-threat performers, becoming experts in singing, dancing and acting. This elite camp is
RMTC Education Programs • WHEN: March 28-April 1 and June 6-24 • CALL: 324-2424 • WEB: redmountaintheatre.org/education
for those who want to be the best of the best.
VestaviaVoice.com
summer camp
March 2016 • A27
G U I D E special advertising section
SAMFORD UNIVERSITY SUMMER PROGRAMS 2016
Samford University summer camps Samford University offers a summer of thought-provoking, empowering and fun summer camps for all ages and areas of interests. Whether your student is interested in the arts, sciences, athletics, theater or math, they will find the perfect camp to stimulate their minds and prepare them for a stellar future. Athletic Summer Training camps June 10-12 host a clinic for high school students interested in athletic training, sports medicine and physical therapy. The three-day residential, hands-on educational opportunity on the Samford campus requires a $200 resident fee, and registration includes meals, housing, fun evening activities on and off campus, CPR/AED certification, a T-shirt and materials. The $170 commuter fee and registration includes lunch, CPR/AED certification, a T-shirt and materials. Students should register online by May 1. Piano students will love the Piano and Chamber Music Institute, June 5-11 for grades 7-12, where students will further their performance abilities while increasing their general knowledge of music. For grades 1-12, there is Adventures in Music Camp, which runs from June 13-17 and July 11-15. This camp offers piano and voice students the opportunity to enhance their solo and ensemble performance, music history and theory knowledge. For theater enthusiasts, there is Imagine! Drama Camps June 13-17 and 20-24. There is a one-week camp for grades K-5 and two-week camp for grades 6-12. Each camp gives students the chance to plan, create and participate in a theater production. Animate! June 20-24 or June 27-July 1 for grades 8-12 is an academy for worship, theology and the arts. For the book lover there is the Great Ideas Summer Institute June 19-24 for high school juniors and seniors to engage in lively discussions about the Great Books. Alabama Governor’s School for rising 12th
Samford University • WHERE: 800 Lakeshore Drive • CALL: 726-2011 • WEB: samford.edu/programs/ summer-programs
grade students is a 13-day residential program on the Samford campus that provides academic, creative and leadership experiences for gifted high school seniors who are nominated by their high schools. For students interested in learning more about the areas of justice and medicine, there are J.D. Calling and M.D. Calling. J.D. Calling, June 27-30, grades 11-12, features expert panels, a mock trial, analysis of legal cases and advice about law school application. M.D. Calling, June 27-30, grades 11-12, features pre-medicine advising, expert panels, networking and field trips. There is also Bulldog Pharmacy Camp, June 26-July 1, for high school juniors and seniors and college freshmen with an interest in a career in pharmacy. For those who want to focus on scholastics, there is the Summer Debate Institute from June 26-July 9 for grades 9-12, where a national caliber staff emphasizes 21st century debate skills. The Minority Youth Science Academy from June 26-29 for grades 9-12 offers college preparation and mentoring for outstanding minority students with an interest in science. The Quantitative Finance Summer Institute, June 19-24 for high school juniors and seniors, teaches the mathematical and analytical methods of modern finance. And the Micah Summer Institute, June 26-July 1, based on the verse Micah 6:8, teaches the concepts of justice, mercy and humility.
Piano and Chamber Music Institute • June 5–11 Further your performance abilities while increasing your general knowledge of music Writing Camp • June 6–10 or July 25–29 Become a better writer and submit your work in contests and publications Athletic Training Summer Clinic • June 10–12 Learn about careers in athletic training, sports medicine and physical therapy; participate in hands-on demonstrations Alabama Governor’s School June 12–24 Provides academic, creative and leadership experiences for gifted high school seniors; students are nominated by their high schools Imagine! Drama Camps June 13–17 and June 20–24 Plan, create and participate in a theatre production Adventures in Music Camp June 13–17 (piano) or July 11–15 (piano or voice) Enhance your solo and ensemble performance, music history and theory knowledge Great Ideas Summer Institute June 19–24 Engage in lively discussions about the Great Books with faculty and students Quantitative Finance Summer Institute June 19–24 Study business methods used in modern finance with faculty and professionals
Animate • June 20–24 or June 27–July 1 Train for worship leadership; register as an individual or a team from your school or congregation Bulldog Pharmacy Camp June 26–July 1 Learn about careers in pharmacy, participate in hands-on demonstrations and tour health care facilities Micah 6:8 Summer Institute June 26–July 1 Explore concepts of justice, mercy and humility with Samford faculty and students Minority Youth Science Academy June 26–29 College preparation and mentoring for minority students interested in science Summer Debate Institute June 26–July 9 Learn 21st-century debate skills to compete at the highest levels J.D. Calling June 27–30 Features expert panels, a mock trial, analysis of legal cases and advice about law school application M.D. Calling June 27–30 Features premedicine advising, expert panels, networking and field trips The Martian Frontier June 27–30 Explore cutting-edge science and the challenges of a human mission to Mars
Art Studio for Teens June 20–24 Use various art media for creative projects with experienced artists
Learn more and view registration deadlines at samford.edu/go/summer
A28 • March 2016
summer camp
G U I D E
Vestavia Voice
special advertising section
Tune up at Dawson Music Academy
Has your child ever been interested in playing the guitar? Piano? Violin? Or you would like for him or her to just try out a few different instruments or learn more about the basics of music? Join us for Dawson Music Academy’s Summer Music Camp: Instruments of Praise on June 20-24, 2016. Music camp is a great way to sample what our music academy has to offer. Children in kindergarten through fifth grade have the opportunity to explore the instrument of their choice (violin, viola, cello, piano, guitar, harp, percussion or voice). DMA Music Camp specializes in small group classes that offer personalized instruction from our DMA staff. Classes are available for campers who have no experience or
who have played for many years. Campers are grouped with other students of similar musicianship to help them grow and develop their talents. In addition to focusing on a primary instrument, our music campers participate in fun and interactive large group activities that center around musical aspects that help each child improve his or her musical skills. Afternoon sessions include instrument classes, show choir classes, art, drawing, and praise band basics. This is the 12th year of Dawson Music Academy’s Summer Music Camp. Over 125 campers attend our music camp experience each summer. Full-day camp is from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Register by May 1 to receive the early bird price
of $210. Morning only camp is from 8:30 a.m. to noon. Register by May 1 to receive the early bird price of $110. Online registration opens March 15 at dawsonmusicacademy.org. Please email Kimberly Jones, administrative director, for more information. We hope to see you this summer! If you are unable to join us for summer camp, we welcome the opportunity to help you develop your talents through private lessons. The Dawson Music Academy (DMA) provides classical music lessons in a Christian environment for students of all ages and all levels of ability. We desire to help students learn about music, improve his or her musical skills and apply those
Dawson Music Academy • WHERE: 1114 Oxmoor Road • CALL: 871-7324 • WEB: dawsonmusicacademy.org
skills to praise God through music. “Let everything that has breath praise the Lord. Praise the Lord.” Psalm 150:6.
VestaviaVoice.com
summer camp
G U I D E
March 2016 • A29
special advertising section
Get inspired at Birmingham Museum of Art summer camp Give your child a fun summer of endless inspiration! The Birmingham Museum of Art offers a one-of-a-kind camp where children experience amazing art firsthand. The Museum Studio Summer Art Camp is the only summer experience in the region that gives your child immediate access to our collection of original artworks from around the world. This year, the BMA’s Museum Studio School offers youth entering grades 1–9 the opportunity to learn about the role of art and design in problem-solving. Inspired by art that spans every continent and 4,000 years, campers will brainstorm, create, and test their own artistic solutions to some of the challenges of their worlds. The Summer Art Camp at the Birmingham Museum of Art is the only summer experience in the region that gives your camper immediate access to nationally known experts in the art world and our collection of original artworks from around the world and throughout human civilization. Founded in 1963 with the goal of giving the region a working model of social change, the Education Department at the BMA offered some of the state’s first integrated studio and art history classes for area K-12 and college students. With over 600 tours and programs serving more than 50,000 youth annually, our founding objectives have now become time-tested methods of building empathy, critical thinking skills and creativity. Campers will experience a summer of funfilled, hands-on activities and will create a variety of media, including drawing, painting and sculpting. At the end of the week, for the last 90
minutes of camp, there is a wonderful presentation for parents, guardians and museum staff. Camp will take place from June 13-July 29, 2016, from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. with an extended day studio option from 3:30-5 p.m. General tuition is $200. Early registration is March 1. Those who register by this date will receive a 20 percent discount. The extended day studio includes an additional flat fee of $50. Camps scheduled this summer include grades 1-2, June 13-17; grades 3-5, June 20-24 and June 27-July1; grades 6-7, July 11-15, July 19-22; and grades 8-9, July 25-29. The Birmingham Museum of Art, one of the
finest regional museums in the United States, houses a diverse collection of more than 26,000 paintings, sculptures, prints, drawings and decorative arts dating from ancient to modern times. The collection presents a rich panorama of cultures, featuring the museum’s extensive holdings of Asian, European, American, African, Pre-Columbian and Native American art. The mission of the Birmingham Museum of Art is to provide an unparalleled cultural and educational experience to a diverse community by collecting, presenting, interpreting and preserving works of art of the highest quality.
Birmingham Museum of Art • WHERE: 2000 Reverend Abraham Woods Jr. Blvd. • CALL: 297-8073 • WEB: artsbma.org/museum-studio/
A30 • March 2016 BIKING
CONTINUED from page A1 terrain and must fix any mechanical problems during the race on their own. Brown, who is also a member of BUMP and founded Trips for Kids, said every member of the team has taken a bike repair class. Chanslor recalls one student whose wheel came off after a wreck with another rider. When he put the wheel back on and crossed the finish line, he wasn’t upset that the wreck slowed him down. “‘Coach Tina, I passed 20 people to catch back up,’” Chanslor remembers him saying. “It’s not necessarily about being the one who gets to get on the podium… They all finish and feel like they’ve accomplished it.” Despite being a new sport, Brown and Chanslor agreed that the team members love it. Chanslor has students who now bike from Liberty Park to the high school since joining the team, or wake up earlier each morning to fit in an extra ride. “All we have to do is get them out one time and then they’re hooked on the sport,” she said. The coaches think having a trail close to the school will be important in fostering more excitement from students to join the team. They’re working with Michael Enervold of TrailVisions, a recreational trail planning and construction company, to make it happen. Creating the trail requires a lot of cooperation. The city of Vestavia Hills is excited about the project, according to Public Services Director Brian Davis, but some of the land that they want to use for the trail belongs to the Board of Education or the Freshwater Land Trust. Brown and Chanslor have to get these permissions and work with the city’s engineering department before any work begins. The final design of the trail will be determined by these permissions, but Enervold is envisioning a 1.5mile “urban wilderness” dirt trail, including a series of turns and switchbacks on the hill owned by the BOE and the Land Trust. It will include some features specifically for bikers to enjoy, but all will be accessible to pedestrians. Brown said it would make a good practice site for the VHHS cross-country team as well. “If it’s good for bikes, it’s great to walk and run on,” Enervold said. “Most folks actually like trails that are natural.”
Vestavia Voice He also thinks it will greatly improve accessibility to Rocky Ridge neighborhoods and businesses. The trail can provide a walking path for residents, but Enervold also sees it as a potential draw to mountain bikers who don’t live in Vestavia Hills. When they come to ride, he said, it’s likely they’ll stay to dine or shop. “People that exercise tend to eat and drink afterward,” Enervold said. The job involves clearing out rocks, privet and other overgrown plants to make the path, but without causing erosion on the hillside or other long-term problems. The students on the bike team are committed to helping maintain the trail and have worked on area trail maintenance projects before, but Enervold still wants to make it a quality trail. “What we want to construct is something that won’t be a maintenance burden,” Enervold said. “It takes a lot of time to actually lay out a good trail.” Since the students will also volunteer their time to construct the trail, Enervold, Brown and Chanslor expect the project will cost about $15,000 to complete. After they complete the necessary processes with the city and landowners, financing the trail project will be their next challenge. “This is going to enhance the city and it’s being done the right way, but it’s being done on the cheap,” Brown said. Enervold estimates that an extra $10,000-$12,000 would have to be spent if the students were not volunteering their labor. Chanslor said they hope to begin building the trail this summer, when students are out of school. Enervold said that the project, once begun, will take a month or two to complete. “We’re ready ASAP. The kids are ready as well,” Chanslor said. In the future, Enervold said enough interest could prompt the addition of more biking amenities, such as a pump track or tot track for riders learning about mountain biking, with benches nearby for parents to watch. However, he believes just the addition of this new trail will add a lot of enjoyment to McCallum Park. “It may not be long… but it can still be super fun and super cool,” Enervold said. And for those who may not understand the enthusiasm around one of Vestavia Hills’ youngest competitive sports, Chanslor invites them to the next NICA race, on March 6 at Tannehill Ironworks State Park. “The energy level at the race is just unbelievable,” Chanslor said.
Above: Members of the Vestavia Hills mountain bike team line up during a practice at Oak Mountain State Park. They want to create a new practice trail at McCallum Park. Photos by Ron Burkett. Left: As part of their membership on the mountain bike team, each student must learn to repair and maintain their bike individually.
VestaviaVoice.com
March 2016 • A31 Dr. Stephen Hamilton examines a patient at Eye Consultants of Atlanta. Photo courtesy of Stephen Hamilton.
“
It’s probably my favorite thing to do … these people are special because they need a hand up. They’ve slipped through the cracks and we’re pulling them back up.
”
STEPHEN HAMILTON
SIGHT
CONTINUED from page A1 Andrew Bartlett, a 2003 VHHS graduate who returns to private practice in Birmingham in July — spend the day performing cataract surgeries and, in a couple cases, corneal surgeries or transplants. While they often see more advanced cases of cataracts on these days, Hamilton said they are typically able to perform 15 to 20 surgeries at no cost. It takes a lot more than the two surgeons to make Operation Saving Sight work. Hamilton said about 15 Eye Consultants volunteers, including office staff, nurses and anesthesiologists, will come in on their day off to assist with the procedures. Coordinating that many people’s schedules limits Hamilton to two days per year.
“I could do it every day but I couldn’t do it without all the staff I need,” Hamilton said. Operation Saving Sight is also assisted by donations from the Eye Consultants of Atlanta Foundation, drug companies, laser surgery equipment manufacturers and the Georgia Eye Bank, which has donated transplant corneas that would normally cost several thousand dollars. Hamilton has seen men and women come through his doors because they lost their jobs or can no longer drive due to cataracts. Most of the time, their vision is clear the very next day. “All of them are certainly happy to see again, and I’d say there’s been a lot of outpouring of thanks,” Hamilton said. “To get them back to their lives, it’s cool that you can have that big of an impact.” Hamilton’s path to ophthalmology was started when his family moved to Vestavia Hills as he
entered his freshman year. The excitement and quality of teaching in the math and science departments was contagious, especially from teachers Jim Shoemaker, June Stevenson, Kay Tipton and Rosemary Buettner. “They were all just the greatest teachers I’ve ever had,” Hamilton said. “The science and the math departments were so strong that I’m sure that drove me in that direction.” While at VHHS, Hamilton also served on SGA and Key Club and helped to found the school’s soccer team under coach Rick Grammer, who retired last year. After graduating in 1980, Hamilton earned a chemical engineering degree at Auburn and planned to study anesthesiology at UAB. Then he met an ophthalmologist who was “so excited about what he was doing” and encouraged Hamilton to study the same field. In ophthalmology’s use of technology and
data analysis for eye surgery, Hamilton found a medical field that was “very compatible” with his engineering background. “I don’t know how I ended up here but it obviously was the perfect thing for me to be doing,” Hamilton said. Now, Hamilton gets to see patients walk out of his clinic and know Operation Saving Sight helped them resume their regular lives. “It’s probably my favorite thing to do… these people are special because they need a hand up,” Hamilton said. “They’ve slipped through the cracks and we’re pulling them back up.” He likes to share the story of Operation Saving Sight with as many people as he can, to encourage others to find simple acts of generosity they can perform in their own communities. “I’m hoping that other people will say, ‘Hey, we can do this,’” Hamilton said.
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SECTION B Community B4 School House B12 Sports B16
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Days of unknowns Greenhalgh family takes it one day at a time following son’s kidney disease diagnosis
By ANA GOOD Walker Van Zile Greenhalgh has a smile that lights up a room. At just over a year old, his crystal blue eyes twinkle with curiosity as he explores the world around him. His bright red hair, still baby-thin, seems to match his personality. On a dreary, rain-soaked afternoon in January, Walker giggled and cooed as he crawled from room to room. Walker’s cheerful and playful demeanor make it hard to believe that in his short life, his little body has already endured so much. It was only just a year ago that Walker’s parents, Kitty and Adam, were in grief counseling, preparing for what they believed to be the inevitable: doctors hadn’t expected Walker to make it full-term. If he did, they told his
parents, he’d live a few hours, maybe a few days at most. While in his mother’s womb, Walker had been diagnosed with failing kidneys. Few believed he’d make it to his first birthday. This April, Walker will continue to defy expectations when he serves as the Patient Chair for the Birmingham Kidney Walk, helping to bring awareness to kidney disease and raising money to find a cure.
FROM JOY TO TEARS
When Kitty and Adam found out their oldest son, Wade, would soon have a sibling, the family celebrated with a cake-reveal. Wade, now 5 years old, cut the cake to reveal he would have a baby brother. Everything seemed to be
The Greenhalgh family: Adam, Walker, Wade and Kitty. Photo by Ana Good.
progressing as usual, Kitty said, during the first few months of her pregnancy. At around 20 weeks, doctors informed her that Walker had bilateral dilated kidneys and diagnosed her placenta previa, which can cause severe bleeding before or during delivery. Because it is something that usually self-resolves and is often found in ultrasounds, doctors told Kitty they’d continue to monitor Walker’s kidney development and see her in a few weeks for another checkup.
At 29 weeks, however, the ultrasound revealed Walker’s kidneys had taken a turn for the worse. There was no amniotic fluid protecting Walker anymore, which meant his life was at risk. He was at risk for cord compression, as well as severe pulmonary hypoplasia, which would mean the incomplete development of his lungs. “Things didn’t look good,” said Adam, as he sat inside his Mountain Brook home recalling a much darker time. “They told us that if Walker did
make it through the pregnancy, he wouldn’t live much longer than 72 hours.” The best case scenario, doctors told them, would mean a lifelong dependence on medicine and a necessary transplant down the line. Problems with kidneys are often soft markers for Down syndrome and other abnormalities, said Kitty, which meant the
See GREENHALGH | page B9
The Homewood Star
B2 • March 2016
while you were
By SYDNEY CROMWELL
SLEEPING VESTAVIA HILLS CARMIKE CINEMA
Top: Joshua Johnson scoops popcorn for a customer. Photos by Sydney Cromwell. Bottom: The Vestavia Hills Carmike Cinema lit up at night.
On those opening weekend mornings when the Carmike employees are leaving at dawn, coffee is already brewing and bacon is sizzling at The Egg and I next door. To serve early morning church groups and businesspeople on their morning commute, employees at The Egg and I have to get a head start. Team Lead Tina Johns gets up at 4:30 a.m. to get from her Vestavia Hills home to work. For cook Jose Rodriguez, living in Columbiana means his day starts even earlier. Kitchen manager Steven Marshall is the first to turn the lights on at 5 a.m. each weekday to begin making pressed juices. Rodriguez arrives at 5:30 to turn on the grill and begin cooking, and Johns or other firstshift servers arrive soon after to begin brewing coffee and tea. By 6 a.m., the restaurant is ready for its customers. Marshall and Johns both chose early morning work to allow them to spend more time with their school-age children. While the alarm clock sometimes buzzes a little too early, they agree that it’s easy to develop an early routine. “I love to sleep. But I’m a family man by nature, so I like to be home when my son gets off the bus,” Marshall said. “I don’t really get to sleep late like I used to. Sleeping in to me is like sleeping in until 7 [a.m.].”
The downside, Johns said, is that she’s typically in bed by 8 p.m. Just as the Carmike employees feel their odd hours make them a closer team, Marshall said the morning shift means he gets cooks and servers at their best. “Everybody’s in a good mood at work, as compared to night time,” Marshall said. “I think everybody comes in, they just wake up, just showered, just up, I think they have a good attitude.” “We have a really great kitchen crew back there. They’re really great guys, they work well together,” said Johns. This is her first time working at a breakfast location. Rodriguez said on an average day he cooks more waffles, scrambled eggs and bacon than anything else. Sundays are the busiest days at The Egg and I, but Johns said they have regulars every day of the week. “A lot of individuals, we know exactly how they want it made too, so they’ll be just like, ‘Tina, I don’t have to explain it to you, you know what I want,’” Johns said. While he doesn’t work a typical 9 to 5, Marshall said he wouldn’t trade his morning job for an evening job like the movie theater. “I’ve worked at jobs where I’ve been there until 11, 12, 1 o’clock at night. I couldn’t do that,” he said.
Birmingham may not be the city that never sleeps, but it is kept running in part by the people who start their days while the sun is down. From garbage collectors and road crews to doctors and security officers, night shift and early morning work is unseen but makes the day smoother for residents whose alarm clocks are going off when night employees have already been hard at work. This is a look at two groups of night owls in Vestavia Hills.
As you’re munching popcorn and enjoying the latest film at your local movie theater, the theater’s employees are all around — and in some cases, above — you to make the experience fun. Since theaters do most of their business on evenings and weekends, the employees at the Carmike on Kentucky Avenue are typically working until 11 p.m. or midnight. When a big release like “Harry Potter” or “Star Wars” comes out, manager Ashley Reiners said her workday might end at 3 a.m. or even when the sun is rising. “When normal people are relaxing, we’re working,” Reiners said. That’s not necessarily a bad thing, though. As they sweep seat rows, stock candy bars and refill drinks late at night, Reiners said her coworkers are joking around and having a good time. “I think it makes for a closer team,” Reiners said. “If I were to tell you all my friends, they either work at a movie theater now or they did once upon a time because you almost form a bond because you have those weird hours.” Joshua Johnson, who has worked at the Vestavia Carmike for two years, said he wanted a job to enjoy his time and he’s “been having fun ever since.” Even when lines are long and customers aren’t always patient, he stays in a good mood. Johnson said he’s so used to being at the theater that he’ll be there on his days off to catch a movie. “What I like here is everybody helps everybody,” Johnson said of his fellow employees, adding that it makes his shifts go by quicker. They also bond over the strange, funny and frustrating shared experiences of making a cinema run, such as watching customers stand and wait in front of a closed box office, ignoring the sign telling them tickets will be sold inside. In cleaning the theaters after each film, Reiners said they often find more than just candy wrappers and spilled popcorn. “I’ve found pants before. I’ve found like a headlamp, I’ve found the strangest things,” Reiners said. “I’ve found one shoe before. Not like a child’s shoe, an adult shoe.” Assistant manager Stephen Killen said he often encounters customers who don’t realize the projection machines are automatic now, and he must fix problems himself rather than simply
calling the projectionist waiting upstairs. “You try to tell them in the nicest way possible, ‘The longer I stand here talking to you, the longer it’s going to take me to get upstairs and do it,’” Reiners agreed. And of course, opening weekends of major movies is an experience to draw any theater team closer together. Reiners remembers one of her first days as an employee, for the opening of “Iron Man.” The computer system crashed and she had to hand-write tickets for hundreds of people. “Star Wars: The Force Awakens” crashed three pre-sale ticket websites for the Vestavia Carmike and brought about 900 people to the theater on opening night, and Reiners didn’t have room for them all inside. The 2D customers wrapped around one side of the building and the 3D customers on the other. In the theater stock room, there were five times as many bags of popcorn seed and pallets of water bottles as usual, stacked higher than Reiner’s head. Night shift at a theater has its difficulties, such as counting money late at night and trying to schedule for unpredictable crowds. Evenings and weekends are the busiest, but Reiner said she has to guess each week on how many employees to staff. “When you see a manager on drawer, rushing, you know that unfortunately we failed at the guessing game that day,” Reiners said. It can also make late-night employees forget how the “normal” day works. Reiners recently had a free Friday night and went to dinner at 5:30 p.m. and was shocked to encounter rush hour traffic. “I guess I haven’t experienced rush hour traffic in months,” she said. “It’s like it didn’t even occur to me that it was going to take me so much longer to get food, because I normally work 12:30 to 8:30 and I miss all the traffic.” There’s only one thing the Carmike employees all agreed they were tired of hearing about: concession prices. Reiners estimated that the theater only receives 5 percent of ticket sales, leaving popcorn, candy and nachos to make up the difference. “How I stay open, how I pay these guys is concessions, which is why those prices are so high,” she said.
THE EGG AND I
Team Lead Tina Johns starts brewing coffee before The Egg and I opens for breakfast.
VestaviaVoice.com
March 2016 • B3
” Stacy Flippen found our perfect empty nest.” When Sally and Ben May decided to buy a new home for their next phase of life as empty-nesters, they turned to Realtor Stacy Flippen with ARC Realty to guide the process. “Stacy brought energy, persistence, and professionalism to our search for a home in Homewood,” says Sally. “Not only did she deliver the desired result, she became a friend and neighbor along the way.” Stacy’s knowledge of the area and connections with other Realtors were keys to the May’s success. “We couldn’t keep up with the pace of houses being bought and sold in Homewood,” says Ben. “Stacy’s tenacity and determination led us quickly to the house we now happily call home.” Stacy says being a part of ARC Realty also gives her a distinct advantage. “ARC is a Birmingham-based company. Our leadership team understands this community and is committed to providing the best customer experience.”
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B4 • March 2016
Vestavia Voice
Community
Girl Scouts to honor Vestavia Hills’ Slovensky By ERICA TECHO Vestavia Hills resident Women of Dr. Donna J. Slovensky will be recognized Distinction at the annual Women Awards of Distinction Awards Luncheon Luncheon. The luncheon, hosted • WHERE: Harbert by the Girl Scouts of Center, downtown North-Central Alabama, Birmingham is March 11 at the Harbert • WHEN: Friday, Center in downtown BirMarch 11 at 11:30 mingham. Award winners a.m. are nominated based on Dr. Donna J. Slovensky • COST: $60 their civic, academic or general admission; professional involvement will receive the Women of $45 for Girl Scout and contributions to the Distinction Healthy Living award from the Girl Scouts members community. of North-Central Alabama. Slovensky, senior asso- Photo courtesy of Girl Scouts ciate dean for academic of North-Central Alabama. and faculty affairs at UAB’s School of Health said. “They need real inspiration, role Professions, was selected for the Healthy models who lead by example in their speLiving category of the Women of Distinc- cific community.” tion awards. Slovensky said she believes engageWinners of the Women of the Distinc- ment and relationships with others is an tion award provide a good example for important step to living a full life, and Girl Scouts, said Hannah Wallace, director community service is a way to diversify of communications and marketing for Girl those engagement opportunities and to Scouts of North-Central Alabama. These learn more. girls are growing up in an online world, “Community service offers forums to Wallace said, and it can be difficult to plug meet and learn from individuals that we them in with real-world mentors. might not encounter in our routine daily “Our girls need role models,” Wallace lives at work, church and social activities,”
she said. “The greatest lesson I’ve learned is to consider individual context and perspective instead of always operating from my own frame of reference.” After women are nominated, the Women of Distinction Nomination Committee sorts through nominations and selects winners. Local Girl Scouts will have the opportunity to interview the Women of Distinction award winners as part of a short video. The girls get to write questions for the winners, and the video will be shown at the award ceremony. “They’ll really be able to see what makes these women tick, how hard they had to work to get there,” Wallace said. Some women also remain involved with Girl Scouts by volunteering, participating in fundraisers and speaking with troops in the area. At the luncheon, each woman will give a short speech regarding her award. Tickets are $60 for general admission and $45 for Girl Scout members. Proceeds from the luncheon support Girl Scouts of North-Central Alabama. “I think the greater importance is that you’re supporting Girl Scouts, and not just a national brand of Girl Scouts, but the [groups] right outside your door,” Wallace said. For more information about reservations or sponsorships, contact Tonya Mines at 800-734-4541, ext. 1030, or tmines@ girlscoutsnca.org.
VHHS alumna receives P.E.O. scholarship Catherine Claire Hand received the P.E.O. STAR Scholarship during her senior year at Vestavia Hills High School. She is now enrolled at Auburn University, where she is studying pre-business. The P.E.O. Sisterhood, which awards the P.E.O. STAR Scholarship, was founded in 1869. It is an organization dedicated to promoting Catherine Hand received the educational oppor- P.E.O. STAR Scholarship during her senior year at Vestavia Hills tunities for women. Hand was rec- High School. Photo courtesy of Karen Odle. ommended for the scholarship by Chapter P, the P.E.O. of Birmingham. The STAR Scholarship is a $2,500 scholarship based on excellence in leadership, extracurricular activities, community service, academics and potential for future success. Hand plans to pursue a degree in accounting, and she is currently a member of the Freshman Forum and Alpha Gamma Delta sorority, where she serves as assistant new member coordinator. She is also a project leader for the campus-wide Z-Big event, a service project in the Auburn area. – Submitted by Karen Odle.
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VestaviaVoice.com
March 2016 • B5
Vestavia student earns Eagle Scout honor
Pierce Jackson, age 16, son of Kenneth and Cherry Jackson of Vestavia Hills, has earned the Boy Scouts of America Eagle Scout Award. He was recognized at a ceremony held at Liberty Park Baptist Church. Pierce is a member of Troop 76, sponsored by Liberty Crossings United Methodist Church, and is one of approximately four percent of all Boy Scouts who attain the rank of Eagle. Each Eagle Scout must earn 21 merit badges, show leadership and successfully complete a leadership service project in the community to complete the award requirements. Pierce’s Eagle Scout Project involved constructing a Prayer Garden for Liberty Park Baptist Church. Pierce led a team of workers to clear land, build an arbor, benches and a table and to plant a variety of trees, shrubs and flowering plants, and lay sod in the garden. He and his team put more than 200 hours into the project. Pierce has served in a variety of leadership roles in the troop, including assistant patrol leader, patrol leader, troop chaplain and troop scribe. Pierce earned 22 merit badges and received the Pinoti Trail Award. A junior at Vestavia Hills High School, he plays trumpet in the Vestavia Hills Marching Band and is a member of the German Honor Society and the National Honor Society. – Submitted by Cherry Jackson.
Troop honors 3 Eagle Scouts Boy Scout Troop 1, chartered by Southminster Presbyterian Church in Vestavia Hills, held an Eagle Scout court of honor Sunday, Jan. 10, to recognize three young men who earned Scouting’s highest rank. Brandon Bogard, son of Mimi and Howard Bogard of Vestavia Hills, joined Troop 1 in 2009 after crossing over from Cub Scout Pack 1 where he earned his Arrow of Light award. Brandon served in several positions of responsibility within the troop, including troop guide, scribe and bugler. Brandon, a senior at Vestavia Hills High School, earned 24 merit badges and completed his Eagle rank June 11. His leadership project was to build a horseshoe pitching court at the St. Martin’s in the Pines retirement home. Brandon led a team of workers during several weekends to build the pits, backstops, benches and scoreboard. Richard Fu, son of Hongwei Qin and Jianjun (J.J.) Fu of Vestavia Hills, joined Troop 1 in 2011 after crossing over from Cub Scout Pack 235 where he earned his Arrow of Light award. Richard served in several positions of responsibility within the troop, including assistant senior patrol leader. A sophomore at VHHS, Richard earned 27 merit
badges and completed his Eagle rank Dec. 10. Richard’s Eagle leadership project was to build an outdoor chapel at Bluff Park Baptist Church. The chapel is on a hillside next to the church and features a cross, speaker platform and benches. Richard led a team of troop members and others during several weekends to build the chapel. Patrick Rhodes, son of Laura and John Rhodes of Vestavia Hills, joined Troop 1 in 2009 after crossing over from Cub Scout Pack 1 where he earned his Arrow of Light award. He served in several positions of responsibility within the troop, including patrol leader and quartermaster and completed National Youth Leadership Training. A senior at VHHS, Patrick earned 24 merit badges and completed his Eagle rank July 9. Patrick’s Eagle leadership project was to add a floor and benches to a shelter at a community garden in the Thomas area of northwest Birmingham. The project was sponsored by the Christian Service Mission. Patrick designed the floor layout and led a crew of workers from the troop during several weekends to install the floor and build the benches. – Submitted by Mark Garner.
From top: Brandon Bogard, Richard Fu and Patrick Rhodes earned the highest rank in the Boy Scouts. Photos courtesy of Mark Garner.
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B6 • March 2016
Vestavia Voice
VHHS junior selected as YMCA Youth Volunteer of the year
City manager Jeff Downes (far left) with family and host Steve Harvey on the set of “Family Feud.” Photo courtesy of Jeff Downes.
City manager, family play ‘Family Feud’ By SYDNEY CROMWELL Regular watchers of the popular game show “Family Feud” may have recognized a familiar face last month. Vestavia City Manager Jeff Downes found out on June 30, 2015 that his family was chosen to appear on popular game show "Family Feud." The episode aired on Feb. 3. Downes and his wife, identical twin brother, sister-in-law and
niece auditioned for the show earlier in June, and they filmed on July 22 and 23. His brother's family lives in Atlanta, where "Family Feud" is filmed. Downes said that his family had a lot of fun competing on the show and were excited to see it air. "Family Feud" is hosted by comedian Steve Harvey. In Birmingham, it airs at 6 and 6:30 p.m. Monday-Friday on the My68 WBAM television station.
Francisco Hernandez (center) accepts his award as Youth Volunteer of the Year. Photo courtesy of Olga Sanchez-Hernandez.
Francisco Hernandez was chosen as YMCA Camp Cosby’s Youth Volunteer of the Year due to his hard work and commitment on the Counselor in Training program. Francisco’s volunteer efforts were recognized during the YMCA of Greater Birmingham annual meeting on Jan. 28. His involvement with Camp Cosby started at age 6 when he became a very enthusiastic camper. He attended Camp Cosby every summer after that and he was selected Honor Camper on more than one occasion. In the summer of 2014 he was invited to attend the Leader
in Training (LIT) Program, which he completed and was selected Honor LIT. He was then invited to the Counselor in Training Program, which he completed in the summer of 2015 and where he was selected Honor CIT. Francisco attends VHHS where he is a member of the Rebel marching band and the junior varsity soccer team. He also plays competitive soccer for the Vestavia Hills Soccer Club where he volunteers with the Top Soccer Program introducing children with disabilities to the sport. ‒ Submitted by Olga Sanchez-Hernandez.
VestaviaVoice.com
March 2016 • B7
Events
Purple People Color Run set for March 5 By JESSE CHAMBERS The students of Vestavia Hills High School will host the annual Purple People Color Run on Saturday, March 5, from 8-11 a.m., to help raise money for the American Cancer Society. The Color Run, featuring a 5K and a 1-mile fun run, is part of the school’s annual Relay For Life ACS spring fund drive. Organizers hope to raise $250,000 this year, according to VHHS faculty member Claire Rhyne. The Color Run, in its fifth year, is “a fun event that all ages like to do,” Rhyne said. “We will have red, blue and purple powder paint that some of our students will throw on runners at each mile,” Rhyne said. “It’s unique because the Vestavia colors are red and blue and the American Cancer Society’s color is purple, and red and blue mixed together makes purple.” Last year, the Color Run drew 300 registered runners, and about 400 runners are expected this year, Rhyne said. VHHS hosts various ACS fundraisers throughout the spring term — including dances, bake sales and a car wash — leading up to the April 16 Relay For Life event.
Market on the Mountain features “high-quality merchandise at a fraction of retail costs,” said Mindy Strevy, assistant director of Mountaintots Christian Day School. Photo courtesy of Mountaintop Community Church.
Market on the Mountain holds 1st sale of 2016 By JESSE CHAMBERS
Blue, purple and red powder paint will be tossed onto runners at each mile in the 2016 Purple People Color Run. Photo courtesy of Claire Rhyne.
“The whole semester is unique because you have the whole student body come together to raise money for cancer research,” Rhyne said. Registration for the Purple People Color Run 5K is $30, and registration for the fun run is $20. To sign up, go to relayforlife.org/
purplepeoplerun. Packet pickup will be held at the Vestavia Hills High School lobby on Friday, March 4, from 3:30-5 p.m. Same-day registration will begin March 5 at 8 a.m. The 5K will begin at 9 a.m. and the 1-mile fun run at 10 a.m.
If you only see one home at this year’s Parade of Homes, this is the one.
The semiannual Market on the Mountain children’s and maternity consignment sale, which benefits the Mountaintots Christian Day School in Vestavia Hills, will be Friday, March 4, from 9 a.m.-6 p.m., and Saturday, March 5, from 9 a.m.-2 p.m. Registration for consignors and volunteers opened Thursday, Jan. 14. As the only fundraiser held for Mountaintots, the sale features “high-quality merchandise at a fraction of retail costs,” said Mindy Strevy, the school’s assistant director. Market on the Mountain, which was first held in the fall of 2008, typically attracts about 225 consignors and at least 1,000 shoppers, according to Strevy, who said Mountaintots plans to
use proceeds from upcoming sales to update and purchase new technology for its teachers and students. Consignors receive 70 percent of their sales and get to shop the preview sale, while the event’s volunteers get the earliest access to shopping, according to the event website. The March sale will be the spring/ summer installment of the fundraiser, which is also held in the fall. Mountaintots — a ministry of Mountaintop Community Church — offers three-and five-day programs, as well as early care and after-care. For more information about the school, go to mountaintotsdayschool.com. For more about the event, go to marketonthemountain.com or facebook. com/marketonthemountain.
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B8 • March 2016
Vestavia Voice
Celebrations Pat Cox - 80th Birthday
Dear Pat, Through fun and fears, play and tears, We helped each other heal and grow. We prize our time — the days, the years, More than you can know. Just perfect harmony all the way,
The five of us — a perfect blend. We will cherish you our whole life through, Our dear and treasured friend.
Angelo - Bullard Mary Elizabeth Angelo and Edwin Andrew Bullard were married Aug. 22, 2015, at The Cathedral of St. Paul in Birmingham. The 7 p.m. nuptial mass was officiated by the Reverend Douglas Vu. The couple was presented with a Papal Blessing from his Holiness Pope Francis at the conclusion of the ceremony. A reception followed at The Club of Birmingham. The bride is the daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Lawrence Anthony Angelo of Vestavia Hills. She is the granddaughter of Mrs. Joseph John Milazzo and the late Mr. Milazzo of Vestavia Hills and Mrs. Phillip Claude Angelo and the late Mr. Angelo of Vestavia Hills. The groom is the son of Mr. and Mrs. Edwin Alvin Bullard of Florence, Alabama. He is the grandson of Mrs. Walter Clyde Scott and the late Mr. Scott of Opelika, Alabama and the late Mr. and Mrs. Joseph Wallace Hayes of Florence, Alabama. Given in marriage by her father, the bride had sewn into her bouquet her maternal great grandmother’s rosary beads and her maternal grandmother’s wedding handkerchief. The bride was attended by her sister, Catherine Ann Angelo, as maid of honor. The bridesmaids were Kaley Braue, Leslie Bullard, sister of the groom, Elise Carpenter, Julia Curran, Lacey Ezekiel, Karly Gowins, Nicole Hardenkopf, Tiffany Linn, Ashleigh McClenney, Paige Niewerth, Ellen Pantazis and Elizabeth Perrin, cousin of the bride. The groom’s father served as best man. The groomsmen were Vincent Angelo, brother of the bride, David Beasely, Bradley Bowling, John Paul Bruno, Joseph Bruno, cousins of the bride, Andrew Cibulas, Caleb Davis, Andrew Downing, Drew Hawk, Zachary Miskel,
Happy, happy birthday! We love you so much, The Fabulous Five (Gotcha!)
Mitchell Moorer and John Tyler Thompson. Following a honeymoon trip to Excellence Riviera Maya, the couple is at home in Greenville, South Carolina.
Have an engagement, wedding or anniversary announcement? Email sydney@starnespublishing.com to have it included in an upcoming issue.
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March 2016 • B9 Walker with his older brother, Wade. Eventually, doctors expect Walker will outgrow his kidney function and need a kidney transplant. Photo courtesy of Kitty Greenhalgh.
GREENHALGH
CONTINUED from page B1 difficulties Walker might face were endless. “It was heartbreaking,” said Adam, “fearing the unknown.” Doctors immediately started Kitty on steroid shots to help give Walker’s lungs a “boost” in anticipation of a premature delivery. They also recommended the family prepare for the possibility that Walker might not survive. “We prayed a lot in his room,” said Kitty. “We needed a miracle. Our church really stepped up and we also started attending grief counseling sessions. We needed to prepare for what life would be like if we lost a child.” Area communities also rallied around the family. Adam owns Greenhalgh Insurance agency in Cahaba Heights, and Kitty’s family owns Savage’s Bakery in Homewood. In the depths of the family’s fear and sadness came a lot of confusion. Due to HIPAA laws, hospitals couldn’t share details about other patients with the Greenhalghs, making theirs a lonely journey. “We didn’t know anyone at the time who had gone through anything like this,” said Kitty. “There were plenty of awareness groups for other diseases, but nothing for babies struggling with such bad renal failure.” Part of the reason, said Lacey Updegraff, Central Alabama Regional Director of the Alabama Kidney Foundation, is that severe renal failure is not that common among babies. “All situations are different,” she said, “but Walker’s story is definitely far from the norm.”
SURPASSING EXPECTATIONS
Kitty and Walker made it 35 weeks, and on Oct. 23, 2014, Walker made quite an entrance into the world. “He came out screaming and peeing,” said Kitty with a laugh. “It was awesome.” After birth, he was immediately taken to the NICU. Though his kidneys were working, they were working too hard. For two agonizing days, the family waited to see if Walker would survive. Walker remained in the NICU for 10 days before
being transported to Children’s of Alabama for renal failure, as well as to undergo a procedure to provide him with a gastronomy tube to ensure he received necessary nutrients and medicine directly into his stomach. On Nov. 11, the Greenhalghs returned home with the latest addition to the family. “We were able to bring our baby home,” said Kitty. For a few weeks, everything seemed to be fine, until the Sunday after Thanksgiving when Walker was readmitted for vomiting and dehydration. Attempts to rehydrate Walker only made things worse; he was in complete renal failure and unable to expel fluid from his body. In a matter of hours, his tiny 4-pound frame had swollen to over 7 pounds. His sodium and potassium levels were so off he was at risk for seizures. “Once again,” said Kitty, “we weren’t sure if he would make it through the night.” Doctors transferred Walker to the PICU at Children’s, where they anticipated having to start him on dialysis overnight. When his numbers leveled out, doctors instead inserted a nephrostomy tube and operated on Walker to re-route his ureter on
the left kidney. Surpassing everyone’s expectations, Walker has been able to stay off dialysis and his kidney function has dramatically improved. Still, the damage to Walker’s kidneys is irreversible. He has been diagnosed with chronic kidney disease caused by obstructive nephropathy. “Now we pray he doesn’t get sick,” said Adam. “He’s still at risk for renal failure.” Together, and with the help of their family and friends, the Greenhalghs continue to care for Walker and enjoy him every day. Five different medications three times a day and supplemented formula via the g-tube help keep Walker growing and playing. “CKD does not go away,” said Updegraff. “There is no cure and patients tend to have a gradual decline in kidney function.” Eventually, doctors expect Walker will outgrow his kidney function and need a kidney transplant. “Our prayer is that he will go farther down the road than they are expecting him to,” said Kitty. Through all the unknowns, the Greenhalghs said they have grown stronger as a family, as a
couple, as parents and in their faith. “One of Walker’s doctors once told me, ‘Your days of unknowns have just begun,’” said Kitty. “But what I came to realize over time, is that our days of unknowns have always been and always will be. We were forced to live that way, but we should always live that way, in total dependence on God.” Kitty said she hopes that sharing their story will help spread awareness and inspire communication among others with a similar diagnosis. “It always helps to be able to call someone up who has gone through the same thing,” said Kitty. The 2016 Birmingham Kidney Walk will be held April 30 at the Samford Track and Soccer Stadium, Samford University. The Greenhalghs’ group, “Walker’s Warriors,” is led by their family verse, 2 Corinthians 5:7: “For we walk by faith, not by sight.” Donations from the event will benefit the 3,500 kidney patients across Central Alabama. To register, or donate to the Greenhalgh’s cause, visit birminghamkidneywalk.org/walkerswarriors. For more information, visit alkidney.org.
B10 • March 2016
Vestavia Voice
SPRING BREAK IN VESTAVIA HILLS
By EMILY FEATHERSTON While many families may be packing up to head to the coast later this month, many others will be spending their spring breaks here in the city of Vestavia Hills. From camps for kids to activities for the whole family, there is plenty to do if you are staying in town this year.
CAMPS MUSIC
SOCCER For parents looking for an active outlet for their children this spring break, the Vestavia Hills Soccer Club’s soccer camp provides plenty of fun with a focus on fitness. The camp for ages 4 to 14 will take place at Sicard Hollow Athletic Complex Monday through Thursday from 9 a.m. to noon. Early drop off and late pick up at 8:30
a.m. and 12:30 p.m. are also available. Camp Director Gerard Barbero said the camp is not about endless soccer drills, but more about “having a blast” while learning soccer skills at the same time. Registration for the camp is $120, and the deadline to register is Friday, March 25. For more information and to register, visit vestaviasoccer.com/camps.
ACTIVITIES Mason Music Studios offers spring break camps for kids each year to introduce them to the world of music. Photo courtesy of Nicole Patton, Mason Music Studios.
Mason Music Studio in Cahaba Heights is providing a weeklong spring break camp for beginners looking to learn about music in a fun and creative way. The camp, from 9 a.m. to noon for children ages 6 to 9, will focus on exploring general musical concepts, as well as what instrument fits best for each student. Students will spend time
with each instrument, and parents can meet with instructors at the close of the camp to discuss what kind of lessons might work best for their child. Registration for the Monday through Friday camp is $175, and the deadline to register is Friday, March 18. For more information and to register, visit masonmusicstudios.com.
INDOOR ACTIVITY Library in the Forest The Library doesn’t close for spring break, which means they’ll still have a full calendar
of activities for anyone from toddlers to adults. Programs include storytime, crafts, computer classes, gaming and more. A full list can be found at vestavialibrary.org/events.
VestaviaVoice.com
March 2016 • B11
INDOOR ACTIVITY Vestavia Bowl Vestavia Bowl will be opening early at 10 a.m. for spring break from Monday through Friday. Guests also can enjoy a
special spring break rate of $25 for two hours of bowling and shoe rental for up to six people. They are open until 5 p.m., and lanes are first-come, first-served.
Vestavia Bowl is opening early the entire week of spring break. Photo by Emily Featherston.
OUTDOOR ACTIVITIES City Parks The city of Vestavia Hills has multiple public-recreation parks available to residents of all ages, and many even allow pets. This spring break, those staying in town can take advantage of any good weather by exploring the city’s lesser-known parks. Boulder Canyon Nature Trail The trail, located along Shades Crest between Vestavia Hills Elementary Central and the Vestavia Hills Public Library, provides a look at the nature preserve as well as seasonal bird watching. Location: 1289 Montgomery Highway McCallum Park Just off Rocky Ridge Road, McCallum
Park offers visitors both an open field for games as well as a trail for walking or running. Though a passive park, it does have basic amenities such as restrooms, pavilions and grills for open-fire cooking, as well as a playground. Location: 3332 Rosemary Lane Hours: 6 a.m. until sunset Byrd Park Renovated in 2012 after being damaged in the tornadoes of April 2011, Byrd Park now features a playground and walking track in addition to revitalized green space. Located across from Vestavia Hills Elementary School East, the park is only minutes away from the City Center. Location: Tyson Drive McCallum Park has ample trail space, as well as an open field for playing games. Photo by Emily Featherston.
B12 • March 2016
Vestavia Voice
School House
Playing their way to the top By SARAH COOK While most Louis Pizitz Middle School students are dreaming of the weekend at 2:45 p.m. on a Friday, 13-year-old Jake Arnold is jamming out in the band room to the Commodores’ “Brick House.” Arnold, along with 26 other students, is a member of the school’s jazz band — an audition-only group that has acquired somewhat of an elite status in the middle school jazz community. Just last year, the school’s symphonic band was invited to perform at the Midwest International Band and Orchestra Clinic in Chicago, making them the first Alabama middle school band to play at the event. Band Director Kim Bain, who has been leading the program for 10 years, said the invitation was the highest honor a middle school band could receive. “We were selected from all these applicants from all across the nation, and we were one
of three bands that performed at the clinic this year,” Bain said. “It was a huge honor.” Bain said the accolade was well deserved. The students, she said, work diligently yearlong to perfect their skills — and it’s paying off. “We have enthusiastic students here who are willing to jump into any challenge I throw their way,” she said. This year, 13 jazz band students received Alabama All-State Band status. To have that many students receive all-state recognition, Bain said, was a notable accomplishment for the program. “This is definitely my favorite age group to teach,” admits Bain, who has also taught at the elementary and high school levels. “I really enjoy teaching middle schoolers because you’re able to mold them, but at the same time see the young women and men they’re about to become.” Arnold, who plays trumpet in the band, said participating in the jazz program has been the highlight of his eighth-grade year.
Students who made all-state jazz band include William DeFreese, Kylan Powell, Spencer Taylor, Hudson Winter, Jake Arnold, William McGinnis, Elizabeth Hanje, William Lott, Clay Carroll, JT Matthews, Alex Hoogland, Alex Gilleland and Max Ruffino. Photos by Sarah Cook.
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3. Maintain heating equipment and chimneys by having them cleaned and inspected every year. 4. Bring pets/companion animals inside during winter weather. Move other animals or livestock to sheltered areas.
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VestaviaVoice.com
March 2016 • B13
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Above: Vestavia Hills Elementary School Band Director Kim Bain leads a class. Bain has been leading the program for 10 years. Below: Students practice their saxophone skills.
“In October we played at the opening of the new [Vestavia] City Hall,” said Arnold, who was one of the 13 students to receive all-state status. William DeFreese, who plays alto saxophone and was also named to all-state jazz band, said it’s rewarding to see all the hours of practice pay off in such a big way. “I went to [Vestavia Hills Elementary] Central and when [the jazz band] came and played for us, I was instantly blown away by the saxophone and knew I wanted to join,” he said. Both Arnold’s and DeFreese’s skills shine when they demonstrate their improvisation skills during class — rising from their seats as Bain gives them the cue to let their creativity flow from their instrument. The band’s curriculum focuses on learning the fundamentals of playing jazz literature including swing, Latin and rock styles. While most teenagers prefer top-40 radio, Arnold said he would rather jam out to some classic rock and, of course, jazz. “I love Led Zeppelin,” the 13-year-old said. “I think music is something I will always keep as a hobby.” Bain said some students who complete the band program pursue jazz as much more than a hobby, though. Some Pizitz Middle School alumni, Bain points out, have gone on to study music at the likes of the University of North Texas, which has a prestigious jazz program, and The Juilliard
School in New York City. “These kids have a lot of talent,” she said. “We offer them these opportunities and if they go for it and get after it, they really have a chance to excel at the next level.” Leah Seng, assistant director for the school’s band program, said seeing students progress throughout the curriculum is her favorite part of teaching. “Pushing themselves to be better than they ever thought they could be and seeing these middle schoolers achieve things they never thought they could — that’s just amazing,” said Seng, who has been teaching at Pizitz for five years. In the spring, the band will hit the road and travel to New Orleans to participate in a festival at Loyola University, where they’ll learn improvisation skills from university teachers. William McGinnis, who plays trombone in the band, said it’s opportunities like playing in New Orleans — and simply learning under great leadership — that make participating in the Pizitz jazz program great. And when asked if he plans on continuing his jazz education, McGinnis said the answer is a no-brainer. “I love listening to jazz music and I love playing jazz music,” he said. Bain said like all of her students, McGinnis’ talent holds a promising future. “He better stick with it throughout high school,” she says with a laugh. “He’s too good not to.”
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B14 • March 2016
Vestavia Voice
Fundraising in pajamas
Cahaba Heights students collect for food pantry
On Thursday, Jan. 21, students and teachers at Vestavia Hills Elementary West showed up at school in their pajamas — and all for a good cause. Since Bids & Bites, the school’s 11th annual live and silent auction fundraiser, is an adults-only event, PJ Day allowed the kids to join in the fun. Donations given by pajama-clad students and teachers totaled more than $2,500. Together with the funds raised by Bids & Bites, this money will go directly back into West’s classrooms to purchase educational support tools and technology equipment. – Submitted by Alice Elmore.
Students hold some of the food they gathered for the local food pantry. Photo courtesy of Pam Walker.
Vestavia Hills Elementary Cahaba Heights has just completed their third annual “Canuary” challenge, which runs the last two weeks of January. Each year they collect canned foods for the Vestavia Hills Methodist Food Pantry. The goal is for each grade level to collect at least 100 cans. This year, the first grade surpassed everyone else by collecting 198 cans for the food pantry. The school’s overall collection total was 669 cans. – Submitted by Pam Walker.
Students wear pajamas to school for PJ Day fundraising. Photos courtesy of Alice Elmore.
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VestaviaVoice.com
March 2016 • B15
Students make care packages for homeless
Led by the Pizitz Community Service Club, students brought in toiletry items to make care packages for the First Light Women's Homeless Shelter and the Firehouse Mission Homeless Shelter in February. They assembled the packages Feb. 11 and viewed a short video that each of these homeless facilities created to share their vision for meeting the needs of homeless individuals in the community. Photo courtesy of Kellie Wigley.
VHEC receives $1,000 grant from Walmart
s, d n a h e k a e sh w e r o f e B s. d n a h d l o we h
At RealtySouth, real estate doesn’t simply equate to hard negotiation and paperwork. For us, it’s more than a transaction. It’s the relationship that VHEC Principal Marian Humphries (left) and Assistant Principal Lorie Belski with fourth and fifth grade students. Photo courtesy of Whit McGhee.
matters most. For nearly 60 years, we’ve been running in the same crowds. If I look familiar, it’s not necessarily because
A grant from Walmart is going toward improved technology at Vestavia Hills Elementary Central. The Walmart Community Grants Team and Walmart Neighborhood Market in Vestavia recently awarded Central $1,000. Last year, VHEC transformed its computer lab into a 21st century learning space called Central P.A.R.K., which stands for Positive Atmosphere Reaches Kids. This year, the school hopes to merge Central P.A.R.K. and the VHEC Media Center into a Makerspace. The Makerspace will provide a setting for Next Generation Science Standards (NGSS) to be implemented. The NGSS model shifts the classroom dynamic from a teacher standing and talking in front of a class to that teacher encouraging students to ask questions, develop explanations and do research to test their ideas. The $1,000 grant will help purchase tools to make connections to a real world and hands-on learning experience. A goal is to help build more students’ interest in science. – Submitted by Whit McGhee.
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B16 • March 2016
Vestavia Voice
Sports
Odom has only hard work to thank
By KYLE PARMLEY
The dream has been realized, yet there is still so much to accomplish. Joseph Odom, a former Vestavia Hills High School catcher who graduated in 2010, has been invited to spring training with the Atlanta Braves. “It’s a dream, for sure,” he said. “It’s definitely one of the goals I had coming into this year.” Odom was one of seven players from the Atlanta organization who received an invite to the Arizona Fall League in 2015, an offseason league that brings together the top minor league prospects from each team’s farm system. His performance there was
satisfactory enough for him to get the call to come spend parts of February and March in Orlando, Florida, with the Braves, as they prepare for the regular season. “They said that I earned the spot, and they were excited for me to get down there and to get a good start to the season this year,” Odom said. The spring training invite moves Odom one step closer to potentially holding the job he has desired for so long. Javy Lopez was Odom’s favorite player on the Braves — the Major League Baseball franchise he grew up rooting for. He was the longtime starting catcher in the 1990s and early 2000s. He recalled, “I used to tell my mom all the time, ‘I want his job so bad.’ It’s
Odom didn’t start a game until midway through his junior year of high school, but now finds himself playing professionally. Photo courtesy of the Carolina Mudcats.
VestaviaVoice.com crazy that I have an opportunity to maybe someday have it.” The plan in Spring Training is to be a sponge, and absorb as much information as possible. “I want to go in and keep my mouth shut and just listen and learn as much as possible from all those coaches and players who’ve been around forever,” Odom said. That doesn’t mean that Odom plans to do anything other than put his best effort on the field in his opportunities. “I want to turn some heads and hope they get to throw my name around after they see what I can do,” he said. This opportunity would have seemed unlikely, to say the least, a few years ago. Odom was not the athletic phenomenon that burst onto the high school level as a freshman. Far from it, actually. “I played with Coach (Kris) Thomas my freshman year, and I played very little,” Odom said. “I wasn’t that good. I was about as wide as I was tall.” Thomas remembers one of the moments during that season that played a role in Odom turning the corner. “One time we had to run poles (from foul pole to foul pole in the outfield),” Thomas said. “He was way behind everybody and I remember stopping him and talking to him. “I said to him, ‘You got to make a choice of what you want to do. If this is what you want, it’s time get serious and time to put in some work to change your life, change your lifestyle, your weight, all that stuff,’” Thomas said. The light bulb went off. The hard work began to pay off. Odom did not start a game at Vestavia Hills until midway through his junior season. He was primarily used as a defensive replacement at catcher during the late innings of games. A former teammate of his in high school, Dylan Wheeler, didn’t know if Odom had what it took to be a successful player, but knew nothing would stop him. “He wanted nothing but to prove the
March 2016 • B17 naysayers wrong,” Wheeler said. “I told all of the older guys on the team that didn’t think he would ever start a single game to watch out, because this kid has something special and will prove all of you wrong. “By the end of Joseph’s junior year, he was starting in the playoffs in our most important games,” Wheeler said. He made enough progress to start his entire senior season at Vestavia and get the opportunity to go play at Huntingdon College in Montgomery. The Braves drafted him in the 13th round in 2013 after a junior campaign in which Odom batted for an average of .369 and led Division III with 14 home runs. After being drafted in the summer, he played the rest of the 2013 season at the rookie level. In 2014, he moved up to the Class A-Advanced Lynchburg team. He spent 2015 with another Class A-Advanced team in the organization, the Carolina Mudcats. The Braves are going through a dramatic rebuilding process, as they have traded away many household names over the past two years. The likes of Craig Kimbrel, Freddie Freeman, Justin Upton and Evan Gattis have been replaced with an abundance of young talent. The transition process gives Odom the chance to make some headway, as Atlanta has a strong eye on how the minor league prospects are developing. “They’ve made some moves lately, but the biggest thing is to control what I can control,” Odom said. Odom hopes to begin the season in Double-A Mississippi of the Southern League, which includes the Montgomery Biscuits and Birmingham Barons. Road trips would be similar to homecoming trips in both spots. But he certainly doesn’t want to stay there. He said, “My ultimate goal is just to be another piece to the puzzle and try to help the Braves get back to the World Series and stir some noise with the fans and get them back interested in baseball in Atlanta.”
Odom spent the 2015 season with the Class-A Carolina Mudcats, in the Atlanta Braves organization. Photo courtesy of the Carolina Mudcats.
B18 • March 2016
Vestavia Voice
NATIONAL SIGNING DAY 2016
ABIGAIL ALBRITTON ▶ SPORT: Soccer ▶ POSITION: Defender ▶ COLLEGE/UNIVERSITY:
GOING TO THE
NEXT LEVEL S
Wofford College ▶ LOCATION: Spartanburg, South Carolina ▶ MASCOT: Terriers
By KYLE PARMLEY
ix Vestavia Hills High School seniors signed National Letters of Intent with their respective future colleges as part of National Signing Day on Wednesday, Feb. 3. Each athlete got to decorate their table with hats, soccer balls or other gear from their college of choice. “They’re not just getting great athletes, they’re getting great people,” Athletic Director Jeff Segars said of the schools that the students will be attending. Here’s a brief profile of each student-athlete:
DILLION CAMPBELL ▶ SPORT: Football ▶ POSITION: Defensive line ▶ COLLEGE/UNIVERSITY: Jacksonville State University ▶ LOCATION: Jacksonville, Alabama ▶ MASCOT: Gamecocks
Photos by Sydney Cromwell.
LINDSAY COPELAND
ALEX ROBIN
▶ SPORT: Soccer ▶ POSITION: Defender ▶ COLLEGE/UNIVERSITY:
▶ SPORT: Football ▶ POSITION: Defensive line ▶ COLLEGE/UNIVERSITY:
Samford University ▶ MASCOT: Bulldogs
LAUREN ROUSSELL ▶ SPORT: Soccer ▶ POSITION: Goalkeeper ▶ COLLEGE/UNIVERSITY:
Auburn University ▶ LOCATION: Auburn, Alabama ▶ MASCOT: Tigers
Columbia University ▶ LOCATION: New York City ▶ MASCOT: Lions
NOLAN TURNER ▶ SPORT: Football ▶ POSITION: Free safety ▶ COLLEGE/UNIVERSITY:
Clemson University ▶ LOCATION: Clemson, South Carolina ▶ MASCOT: Tigers
VestaviaVoice.com
March 2016 • B19
Middle school boys track team takes state championship
The Pizitz boys track and field team celebrates their third consecutive state Middle School Championship. Photo courtesy of Whit McGhee.
The Pizitz Middle boys indoor track and field team took home the Alabama Middle School Championship in January. This is the boys’ third consecutive Middle School Championship. The girls team placed fifth overall. The following athletes placed in the top three in their event, taking home medals: ►GiGi Sharp: Third in the 60-meter hurdles, setting the school record with a time of 10.30 seconds. ►Girls 4x200-meter relay team (Julia Woodruff, Grace Ellis, Gracie Yates and GiGi Sharp): Finished fourth overall, setting the school record with a time of 1:58. ►Ethan Strand: First in the 1600-meter run, third in the 800-meter run. ►George Shamblin: First in the 60-meter hurdles, setting the school record with a time of 9.43 seconds.
►Wilson Owen: First in the shot put. ►Mac Jaynes: First in the high jump, tying the all time middle school record and his own school record with a jump of 5’10”. ►Hayden Haggerty: First in the pole vault and set the all-time middle school record with a vault of 10’. ►Price Barranco: Second in the 60-meter hurdles and third in the 60-meter dash, setting the school record in the 60-meter dash with a time of 7.61. ►Boys 4x200-meter relay team (Price Barranco, ►Jack Culbreth, George Curry and Zion Williams): Finished second and set the school record with a time of 1:41. ►Wells Watts: Second in the pole vault. ►Zion Williams: Second in long jump. ‒ Submitted by Whit McGhee.
B20 • March 2016
Vestavia Voice
Rebels reach quarterfinals f inaugural bowling championship By KYLE PARMLEY The Vestavia Hills boys bowling team reached the quarterfinals of the inaugural AHSAA State Bowling Championships on Jan. 29-30 at Oak Mountain Lanes in Pelham. The girls and boys teams put together great regular seasons, each putting up 10-0 records in their regions. At the regionals in Tuscaloosa, the boys team put together a strong enough showing to advance to the 16-team state championship. “This team was extremely fun to coach,” boys coach Todd Evans said. “All of our bowlers are good kids from good families.” Day 1 of the championships was to determine seeding, as the Rebels latched on to the No. 6 seed, where they took on No. 11 James Clemens— overall winner in the regionals — in Round 1 on Day 2. Vestavia Hills won easily, defeating the Jets 1,852-1,543.
Top row, from left to right: Julie Dixon, Julia Altamarino, Rachel Hall, Alison Stubbs. Bottom row, from left to right: Kathryn Witherington, Katherine Rohner, Cristina Hernandez. Photo courtesy of Roger Hall.
The Rebels looked to be in good shape in the quarterfinal round against Mary G. Montgomery. In the six-game matchup, Vestavia won the first four games and jumped out to a 70-pin edge. But MGM stormed back, blowing the Rebels away in the final two games and bowling a sensational 222 in the final round. “They competed with class and integrity and represented the school in a positive way,” Evans said of his team. Ultimately, we fell short of our goal, but the future looks bright with seven of our top bowlers returning.” Spain Park would go on to win the title, defeating MGM in the semifinals and Stanhope-Elmore in the finals. Starters throughout the season for the Rebels were Travis Saunders, Sam Lawhon, Beau Reed, Jacob Pilleteri, Will Evans, Cam Monistere and Boris Lu. Dawson Wade was the lone senior on the team. “We look forward to carrying on the example he set, by being a good teammate and person,” Evans said of Wade.
Beau Reed was one of the top bowlers for the Rebels this season as a freshman. Photo by Frank Couch.
Liberty Park girls team earns 1st basketball trophy in school history By KYLE PARMLEY The Liberty Park Middle School girls basketball team took a roster of seven players and finished second in the 2016 Metro Tournament. Despite having the smallest number of players of any other team, the Lancers were good enough to bring home the first girls basketball trophy in the school’s history. The seventh-grade girls team defeated Bragg, Homewood and Hewitt-Trussville before falling to Mountain Brook Junior High in the championship game.
Rachel Hall led the team, averaging 12 points per game in the tournament, and was the team’s point guard. Katherine Rohner assumed the role of defensive stopper, hounding opposing ball handlers. Kathryn Witherington and Cristina Hernandez also provided solid defensive support. Julie Dixon was a top rebounder for the team, and Julia Altamarino was a post player who scored and pulled down rebounds with ease. Alison Stubbs played with great energy and was a solid defender. Head coach Allison Charles led the Lancers to a 12-8 record on the season.
VestaviaVoice.com
March 2016 • B21
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Focused on community wellbeing
FAST FACTS Diagnosis and treatment of allergies, asthma, food allergy, sinus, immune diseases Homewood, Hoover, Chelsea, Alabaster, Cullman, and Trussville (opening June 2016) 205-871-9661 Visit alabamaallergy.com for an appointment
Alabama Allergy & Asthma Center has been committed to provide the greater Birmingham area and their patients with the best treatment through their values of care, advocacy, service, integrity and accountability. While its primary office has remained in Homewood throughout the past 50 years, the practice has grown to include six locations. Other locations include Hoover, Chelsea, Alabaster, Cullman, and Trussville (opening June 2016). “Allergies, asthma and immune diseases can have a drastic effect on an individual’s quality of life. Our team of physicians, nurse practitioners and highly trained staff work together to help diagnose and treat patients who suffer from pediatric and adult allergies, skin disorders, sinus issues, asthma and immunological issues, as well as food and drug allergies,” said Helen Combs, practice development manager. Six Board-Certified pediatric and adult allergists, who include Dr. Weily Soong, Dr. Maxcie Sikora, Dr. John Anderson, Dr. Meghan Lemke, Dr. Sunena Argo and Dr. Amy CaJacob, provide patients with innovative care. These physicians are board-certified, uniquely trained and are experts in the diagnosis and treatment of allergies (including environmental, food, insect and drug allergies), asthma and frequent cough, rhinitis (hay fever), sinus infections, eye allergies, hereditary angioedema and other immunological conditions. The specialists diagnose a patient’s conditions by collecting a complete medical history of each patient, performing a physical examination on the patient and assessing the patient’s environmental and other allergen exposure history. They may also perform tests, such as allergen skin tests and lung function tests. It is highly significant if the patient’s allergy symptoms occur in association with exposure. Allergy diagnostic tests such as skin tests or blood tests provide similar confirmation of what your health history tells your allergist. The focus is on achieving
a diagnosis and providing effective care and patient education to restore an optimal quality of life for our patients. “We believe all patients should be treated with, respect, kindness and courtesy. Our practice has been committed to providing the greater Birmingham area and our patients with the highest quality of care through our values of advocacy, service, integrity and accountability. We believe in spending the extra time to educate our patients, as well as serve our community through education, preventative medicine and outreach programs,” said Combs. The core values of Alabama Allergy & Asthma Center are reflected in the company’s social responsibility commitments across a number of areas. “As the largest allergy and asthma practice in Alabama, we are dedicated to contributing to the well-being of the communities in which we live, work and play. Our social responsibility efforts include corporate giving, local community relations, volunteerism, diversity and inclusion, ethics and compliance, wellness and sustainability initiatives. We partner locally to support enhance, and continually improve upon these efforts, in addition to the progress we are making to positively impact the health and wellness of the individuals within our communities,” said Combs.
Medical Services Directory | Special Advertising Section
B22 • March 2016
Vestavia Voice
Alabama Vein Center offers expertise and excellence
FAST FACTS Monday through Thursday 7:30 a.m.– 5 p.m.; Friday 7:30 a.m.-noon 700 Montgomery Hwy., Ste 210 823-0151 or 877-268-VEIN info@alabamaveincenter.com alabamaveincenter.com
Alabama Vein Center was founded in 2002 with the goal of creating a dedicated vein center of excellence for the treatment of venous diseases with state of the art technology and procedures. Dr. Charles Austin Hunt II, MD, FACS, RPVI, owner of the Alabama Vein Centers, is a board-certified expert in the vein treatment field. He was trained in phlebology by Dr. John Kingsley, an internationally recognized expert in the treatment of venous disorders. Dr. Hunt has performed over 10,000 endovenous laser procedures to treat varicose vein disease. He specializes in treating venous disorders and performing endovenous laser ablation, microphlebectomy and sclerotherapy. With five locations throughout Alabama, including their primary location in Vestavia Hills, as well as offices in Tuscaloosa, Prattville, Cullman and Oxford, these experienced professionals are committed to the highest quality care for their patients. Dr. Hunt’s handpicked staff is highly qualified, some with 15 to 20 years of experience in the field. All of their employees are licensed and credentialed highly skilled medical professionals in their particular area, including medical assistants, scrub technicians, ultrasonographers, registered nurses, nurse anesthetists, physician assistants and estheticians. They have successfully treated more than 30,000 patients experiencing some type of vein disorder. Alabama Vein Center has trained physicians and staff from all over the world, including Japan, Australia, Germany and Canada, as well as the United States, demonstrating modern techniques in the treatment of vein disease. Alabama Vein Center’s experienced staff
consults with large numbers of patients who may have struggled for years with their issues or have not been treated successfully in other facilities. The Vein Center is staffed with highly credentialed registered vascular technologists who are experts at accurately evaluating the venous system with ultrasound. Staff licensed CRNA’s (nurse anesthetists) provide safe conscious sedation to patients during laser treatment procedures to make them more comfortable and pain free. The Vein Center treats patients experiencing a wide variety of leg symptoms such as pain, swelling, fatigue, itching, burning, aching, restless legs and non-healing wounds. Once a diagnosis is made, a personalized treatment plan is then designed specifically to target the patient’s concern. They educate the patient to help them understand their specific venous problem and the best treatment option for resolving it. They also offer a comprehensive follow-up program to ensure excellent long-term results. Procedures offered include: Endovenous laser ablation (obliteration of primary diseased veins via laser), microphlebectomy (removal of large, painful varicose veins via micro incisions), sclerotherapy (injections of unsightly spider veins), vein wave (radio frequency treatment of smaller spider veins on the face), compression therapy (wide assortment of compression stockings), and varithena (ultrasound guided injections of problematic recurrent varicose veins). They also perform cosmetic treatments such as Botox, Juvederm, microdermabrasion, and offer a variety of skincare products such as Latisse and Skinceuticals. For more information, visit alabamaveincenter.com.
35 years of better hearing Since its founding in 1980, Birmingham Speech and Hearing has provided our community with exemplary hearing healthcare services, community education and speech-language diagnostics and therapy. Birmingham Speech and Hearing’s qualified professional staff is licensed by the Alabama Board of Examiners for speech-language pathology and audiology and nationally certified by the American Speech-Language Hearing Association and the American Academy of Audiology. Birmingham Speech and Hearing was founded in 1980 and has just celebrated 35 years of business. The faithful staff is committed to recognizing the individual value of each patient. Their service-oriented mission is demonstrated by local hearing health education, encouraging a culture of discovery in its staff, strengthening relationships with other healthcare practitioners in the area, and making investments in the community. Birmingham Speech and Hearing offers comprehensive audiology services including hearing evaluations, consultations, hearing aid sales, fittings and repairs, batteries, adjustments, custom earpieces for hunters and musicians and swimming. They provide assistive listening devices such as alerting systems, amplifiers for television and telephone as well as affordable FM systems. Audiology services for hearing impaired children are provided in all local area school systems. Lip reading classes and auditory processing evaluations are also available. Speech and language services including diagnostic evaluations and therapy address articulation, receptive and expressive language, stuttering and voice disorders. Screenings for speech, language and vision/hearing are available at local private school and child development centers. Difficulty with hearing loss can be a debilitating problem for both children and adults. Good hearing is essential for young and old alike. Compromised hearing can negatively affect the development of social skills, cognition, balance and safety. Some of the more common causes of hearing loss include exposure to noise in the work environment or
recreation, infectious disease, physical trauma, ototoxic drugs or chemicals, birth defects and developmental syndromes. The aging process is a significant factor, along with genetic susceptibility. Birmingham Speech and Hearing provides diagnostic testing followed by a recommendation of technology to assist the patient’s hearing needs. “Anyone can come in for a complete audiological evaluation if they are experiencing hearing problems. Once an evaluation is completed, we discuss potential technology to meet the needs determined by each personal lifestyle as well as budget. Our standard practice procedure is to offer a 30-day no-obligation, risk free trial period. Hearing technology should meet individual needs in a variety of lifestyle settings, be comfortable and affordable. Our goal is to help each person experience life to the fullest with the best equipment for them,” said Cynthia Serota, M.S., CCC-SLP, director of Birmingham Speech and Hearing Associates. Products from all major manufacturers are offered, including Oticon, Lyric, ReSound, Phonak and Widex. Special financing options are available for those who qualify. As with hearing problems, speech and language problems can affect people of any age. When babies and young children do not acquire age-appropriate communication skills, they may be at risk for further problems. While some children outgrow speech and language difficulties, others may need professional help to reach their potential. Speech-language pathologists have the knowledge to evaluate and treat people of all ages who have communication delays and disorders affecting speech sounds, swallowing, voice, fluency (stuttering is disrupted fluency), receptive language (understanding what people say) and expressive language. “We are deeply proud to serve the men, women and children of our community, including military personnel,” said Serota. “We look forward to continuing our mission of service to this community in the future!”
Hear • Speak • Listen • Learn • Live
FAST FACTS Speech and hearing health services 8:30 a.m.-4:30 p.m. 4 Offi e Park Circle, Suite 301 871-3878 birminghamspeechand hearing.com
Medical Services Directory | Special Advertising Section
VestaviaVoice.com
l
U.S. News & World Report
This icon is not the official U.S. News & World Report best hospitals emblem.
2015-16
BEST CHILDREN’S HOSPITALS
March 2016 • B23
CHILDREN’S OF ALABAMA IS . . . l The third largest pediatric hospital in the United States l Licensed for 332 beds & 48 NICU bassinets l The first LEED-certified hospital building in Alabama l One of the Top 20 employers in Alabama with more than 4,700 employees across the state l The pediatric teaching hospital for the School of Medicine at UAB l Home to the Pediatric & Congenital Heart Center of Alabama, where more than 450 cardiac surgeries are performed annually l Site of the only pediatric kidney dialysis program in the state — one of the largest in the country
Russell Campus
1600 7th Avenue South, Birmingham, AL 35233
Benjamin Russell Hospital for Children Lowder Building McWane Building Children’s on Third Outpatient Center Children’s Park Place
Children’s South
205.638.9100
1601 5th Avenue South 1600 7th Avenue South 1600 7th Avenue South 1208 3rd Avenue South 1600 5th Avenue South
1940 Elmer J. Bissell Road, Birmingham, AL 35243 205.638.4800
Outpatient surgery services, Pediatric Imaging Center, laboratory services, specialty care clincis and After Hours care
l Home to one of the largest burn units in the Southeast l One of the largest pediatric rheumatology programs in the nation and the only one in Alabama l Provides care for more than 90 percent of Alabama children with cancer and blood disorders
Pediatric Practice Solutions Primary Care Locations Alabaster (Greenvale Pediatrics) Bessemer (Pediatrics West) Birmingham (Midtown Pediatrics) Brook Highland (Greenvale Pediatrics) Clay/Chalkville (Pediatrics East-Deerfoot) Homewood (Mayfair Medical Group) Hoover (Greenvale Pediatrics)
McAdory (Pediatrics West) Montgomery (Physicians to Children/Central Alabama Children’s Specialists) Mountain Brook (Over the Mountain Pediatrics) Pell City (Pell City Pediatrics) Trussville (Pediatrics East) Vestavia (Vestavia Pediatrics)
www.ChildrensAL.org
B24 • March 2016
Medical Services Directory | Special Advertising Section
Vestavia Voice
Dermatology and Skin Care Center Dermatology and Skin Care Center of Birmingham, established by Dr. Julie Harper in 2007, is a full service dermatology center that focuses on both the medical and cosmetic sides of dermatology, serving all ages from youth to the elderly. Dr. Harper, along with certified nurse practitioners Rebecca Edwards and Katie Tuck, bring patients more than 30 years of dermatology experience. Dr. Harper is a clinical associate professor of dermatology at the University of Alabama-Birmingham. She received her medical degree from the University of Missouri, Columbia School of Medicine, and went on to complete an internship in internal medicine. She completed her dermatology residency at the University of Missouri, Columbia, and her undergraduate degree at Southeast Missouri State University. Dr. Harper is president-elect of the American Acne and Rosacea Society. She speaks nationally on the subjects of acne and rosacea and has recently been invited to both Germany and Brazil to share her expertise. Dr. Harper was drawn to her profession as a result of her own skin concerns as a teenager suffering with acne. Her dermatologist helped her so much that it inspired her to offer others the same type of healing and transformation. “I found through my own experiences that dermatology can be life altering and I wanted to share that with others,” she said. Dermatology and Skin Care Center treats acne, rosacea, psoriasis, eczema and skin cancer such as basal cell, squamous cell and melanoma. Cosmetic treatments are also available for patients, including Fraxel, Thermage, chemical peels, microdermabrasion, sclerotherapy and Kybella, as well as fillers that include Botox, Restylane, Juvederm and Sculptra. Cosmetic dermatology is a rapidly evolving and growing area of dermatology with new procedures available for patients that offer ease, convenience, low or no downtime and can fit any budget. “We’re so fortunate to be living in a time
with when have so many safe and non-invasive treatments for anti aging,” said Dr. Harper. Navigating this new world of treatments can seem overwhelming and confusing to the person trying to decide which treatment they need and what type of benefit will it provide. “It is a rapidly changing field. And there are so many treatments. It really helps to be able to sit down with an expert who can assess your needs and guide you to the most effective treatment for you and for your budget,” said Dr. Harper. As a result of this philosophy, Dr. Harper has developed the 365-Day Skin Transformation. There is no cost for the initial consultation. Once the patient’s needs are assessed, a plan is put in place that that is completely customized to their lifestyle, needs and budget. Dr. Harper describes her practice as faith based. She is committed to serving people in a way that is personal and respectful to their individual needs and desires. Time and care is taken to treat each patient, as she herself would want to be treated. Her work enables her to give back to her patients and the community. “I strive to offer really superb, comprehensive dermatologic care to my patients. I like to be a supporter of the Vestavia community. My faith prompts me to really love my patients,” she said.
FAST FACTS Medical and cosmetic dermatology Monday 8:40 a.m.-4 p.m. Tuesday-Thursday 7 a.m.-4 p.m. Friday 8 a.m.-noon 2470 Rocky Ridge Road 978-3336 bhamdermatology.com
VestaviaVoice.com
March 2016 • B25
Vestavia Hills Real Estate Listings MLS #
Zip
Address
Status
Price
740124
35216
2101 Garland Circle
New
$1,095,000
740617
35216
312 Sunset Drive
New
$899,000
740599
35216
1837 Montclaire Drive
New
$549,900
740547
35216
2605 Cobble Hill Way
New
$465,000
740545
35216
2869 Georgetown Drive
New
$159,900
740468
35216
2208 Jacobs Road
New
$629,000
740395
35216
2100 Montreat Lane #C
New
$69,900
740324
35216
1234 Chason Drive
New
$189,900
740204
35216
1517 Badham Drive
New
$325,000
740059
35216
1816 Nottingham Drive
New
$245,000
739829
35216
1262 Buckhead Circle
New
$614,900
739814
35216
3220 Altaloma Drive
New
$270,000
740609
35216
1204 Cove Lane
New
$819,900
739724
35216
1512 Woodridge Place
New
$999,000
739672
35216
1516 Blind Brook Lane
New
$269,900
739611
35216
2109 Longleaf Circle
New
$588,000
739578
35216
1202 Cheval Lane
New
$575,000
739370
35216
2400 Taralane Circle
New
$290,000
739269
35216
1805 Catala Road
New
$324,500
739098
35216
2341 Morningstar Drive
New
$679,900
Real estate listings provided by the Birmingham Association of Realtors on February 15. Visit birminghamrealtors.com.
2101 Garland Circle
1204 Cove Lane
B26 • March 2016
Vestavia Voice
Calendar Vestavia Events March 1-31: Leadership Vestavia Hills Class of 2017 Nominations. Nominations can be submitted at the LVH Website at leadershipvestaviahills.com under the Join tab. March 1: Italy’s Culture, Art, Music & Language. 1:30 p.m. Vestavia Hills Senior Center. Andrea Triana will discuss Italy and its rich history. Presented by Greater Birmingham OLLI.
March 3: Community Leadership Awards. 6 p.m. Vestavia Country Club. Reception, dinner and program. $50. Visit vestaviahills.org.
March 3: Writing Skills. 1:30 p.m. Vestavia Hills Library in the Forest. Phillip Theibert, writing coach and author. Presented by Greater Birmingham OLLI.
ing Group. 7:30 a.m. Vestavia Hills Chamber of Commerce, 1975 Merryvale Road. Visit business. vestaviahills.org.
March 3, 10, 17 and 25: Stress Relief, Family Crises, Mindful Meditation. 10:30 a.m. Vestavia Hills Senior Center. Facilitated by Adele Baras, licensed professional counselor. Session 1 of 4. Presented by Greater Birmingham OLLI.
March 8: Vestavia Hills Chamber of Commerce Luncheon. 11:30 a.m. Vestavia Country Club, 400 Beaumont Drive. $18. Visit business.vestaviahills.org.
March 12: Alabama Genealogical Society Spring Seminar. 8:30 a.m. Beeson Business Building/Brock Auditorium, Samford University. “It’s All In The Details” presented by George G. Morgan. $40 for non-members & $35 for members. Visit http://algensoc.org/main/SeminarFlyer.pdf.
March 9: ROI Professional Network-
Vestavia Hills Library Events Visit vestavialibrary.org Kids Mondays: Maker Monday. 6:30-7:30 p.m. Work with the electric circuits. Something for everyone, but adults must accompany children. Tuesdays: Together with Twos. 9:30 a.m. & 10:30 a.m. Join Miss Cristina for a rollicking toddler time of stories, songs, finger plays and movement. Ages 18 mos. to 35 mos. Tuesdays: PJ Storytime. 6:30 p.m. Children’s Program Room. (except the 3rd Tuesday, which is Family Night). Wednesdays: Story Friends. 10:30 a.m. Join Mrs. Lisa for great stories and songs plus a surprise visitor or two. Ages 5 and under. Wednesdays & Fridays: W.H.Y? 3:30 p.m. Join Miss Alicia for a craft program on Wednesdays
and a movie and snack on Friday. We Hear Ya! Something for our school age kids. Thursdays: L.I.F.T. (Library in the Forest Time). 9:30 a.m.-noon. Enjoy special play equipment in the program room for preschoolers and their caregivers. (no class March 11) Thursdays: Book Babies. 10 a.m. A new program just for babies, with small classes limited to 12 each, where we begin the journey toward a life-long love of books! You must register each week. Birth to 18 mos. Call 978-0158 to register. (no class March 11) March 1: OTM Chess Tournament. 5:30 p.m. First Tuesday of the month. For K-9th grade. March 8: Ms. Olivia’s Evening Reads/ Book Group. 6 p.m. Historical Room. March 11: Preschool Pals. 10:30 a.m. Community Room.
March 26: Lego Wars. 11 a.m.
Adults
Teens
Thursdays: Sunrise Rotary Club. 6 a.m. Community Room.
Fridays: Open Gaming. 4-5:30 p.m. Enjoy video games on the Wii U, PS4, board games to play with fellow teens. Snacks served.
March 1: Microsoft Excel Part 1. 4 p.m. Electronic Classroom.
March 2: Teen Art Group. 4 p.m. Historical Room. Make and share artwork.
March 2: Microsoft Excel Part 2. 4 p.m. Electronic Classroom.
March 8: Fandom Tuesday. 4 p.m. Movies, crafts and themed foods.
March 4: Microsoft Power Point. 4 p.m. Electronic Classroom.
March 9 & 23: Teen Writing Group. 4 p.m. Historical Room. Snacks served.
March 4: The Friends of the Library Present: An Evening with Bobby Horton. 7 p.m. Community Room.
March 16: Studio 1221. Make crafts and artwork. March 22: Anime Movie Night. 4 p.m. Community Room.
March 7: Microsoft Publisher. 10:30 a.m. Electronic Classroom. March 8: Mac 101. 4 p.m. Electronic Classroom.
VestaviaVoice.com
March 2016 • B27
Library Events Cont. March 9: Windows 8. 4 p.m. Electronic Classroom. March 10: Windows 10 Overview. 4 p.m. Electronic Classroom. March 12: Adult Trivia Night. 7 p.m. The Oscars. Community Room. Prizes for trivia winners and best dressed. March 14: Internet 101. 4 p.m. Electronic Classroom. March 15: Email 101. 2 p.m. Electronic Classroom. March 17: Twitter 101. 5 p.m. Electronic Classroom. March 18: Upcycle City/Makers in the Forest. 7 p.m. Community Room. March 21: iPad Essentials. 4 p.m. Electronic Classroom. March 22: Google Services. 4 p.m. Electronic Classroom. March 23: Creating Your Own Website. 4 p.m. Electronic Classroom. March 24: Resume Workshops. All day. Electronic Classroom. March 24: The Friends of the Library Present: Dolores Hydock. 10 a.m. Community Room. March 25: Online Job Hunting. 4 p.m. Electronic Classroom. March 28: You Tube Essentials. 10 a.m. Electronic Classroom. March 29: Amazon and eBay. 4 p.m. Electronic Classroom. March 30: Computer Troubleshooting. 10:30 a.m. Electronic Classroom.
Area Events March 1-5: Alabama Boys & Girls High School Basketball Championships. Legacy Arena at the BJCC, 2100 Richard Arrington Jr. Blvd. North. 9 a.m. daily Monday-Saturday. $10. Visit ahsaa. com. March 3: Birmingham Art Crawl. 5 p.m.-9 p.m. 113 22nd St. North, Birmingham. Featuring artists, performers and food. Free. Visit birminghamartcrawl.com. March 3: UAB women’s basketball v. FIU. 7 p.m. Bartow Arena, 617 13th Street South. $3 youth, $5 adults. Visit uabsports.com. March 3: Alabama Symphony Orchestra Classical EDGE Series. 7:30 p.m. Alys Stephens Center, 1200 10th Avenue South. $16. Visit alabamasymphony.org. March 4: 37th Annual Reynolds-Finley Historical Lecture. 4 p.m. UAB Volker Hall, 1670 University Blvd. “Medical Residency in the United States: Past, Present and Future.” Visit uab.edu/historical. March 4-6: Cottontails Arts, Crafts and Gift Show. BJCC Exhibition Halls, 2100 Richard Arrington Jr. Blvd. North. 10 a.m.-6 p.m. Friday; 10 a.m.-7 p.m. Saturday; 12 p.m.-5 p.m. Sunday. $6 adults, $2 children 6-12. Visit christmasvillagefestival.com. March 5: Alabama Parkinson’s Fighter Walk. 9 a.m. Samford University Track and Soccer Stadium, 600 University Park Place, Homewood. 1 mile walk to raise money for Parkinson’s research and silent auction. $30. Register at www.runsignup.com. March 5: Chili Cook-Off for The Exceptional Foundation. 10 a.m.-3 p.m. Brookwood Village, Homewood. $10 advance, $15 at gate. Visit exceptionalfoundation.org. March 5: The Black Jacket Symphony presents: Pink Floyd’s “The Dark Side of the Moon.” 8 p.m. Iron City Birmingham, 513, 22nd Street South. $25. Visit ironcitybham.com March 5-6: RMTC Conservatory Showcase. Red Mountain Theatre Company, 301 19th Street North. Performances by RMTC Conservatory students ages 6-18. Saturday and Sunday at 2 p.m. and 7:30 p.m. Tickets starting at $10. Visit redmountaintheatre.org. March 6: Gray Ghost Gala. Weimaraner Rescue of the South’s 14th annual fundraiser. 3 p.m.-6 p.m. Gabrella Manor. Live music, hors d’ouevres, wine, beer, and many wonderfully exciting
Makerspaces are purposefully-planned DIY spaces for use by community members. The sharing of resources and space provides individuals with opportunities to learn, design, invent and create works that might not otherwise be accessible. Whether you are a hobbyist or a professional, young or old, we want to make a space for you! But your generosity is !! the only way we can
make it happen
For more information about the Makerspace or to make a donation, please visit our website at vestavialibrary.org or call 205.978.4632.
We can’t wait to see you at the Library!
items available in our silent auction. $30 in advance, $35 at the door. For more info: contactus@weimrescue.com. March 9: UAB Writer’s Series Presents Tim Parrish. 6 p.m. Mary Culp Hulsey Recital Hall, 950 13th Street South. Free. Visit uab.edu. March 10: Birmingham Revealed: Jazz in Birmingham. 5:30 p.m. Vulcan Park & Museum, 1701 Valley View Drive. Visit visitvulcan.com. March 10-13: Michael J. and Mary Anne Freeman Theatre and Dance Series presents “A Midsummer Night’s Dream.” Harrison Theatre, Samford University, 800 Lakeshore Drive. $15, $6 students, free for faculty and staff. 7:30 p.m. Thursday-Saturday, 2:30 p.m. Sunday. Visit samford.edu/arts. March 11: Alabama Symphony Orchestra Classical Masters Series. 7:30 p.m. $35. Visit alabamasymphony.org. March 11-12: Million Dollar Quartet. BJCC Concert Hall. Tony Award winning Broadway Musical. 8 p.m. Friday, 2 p.m. and 8 p.m. Saturday. $35-$85. Visit theatreleague.com/Birmingham. March 11 &13: Orpheus & Euridice/Green Sneakers. RMTC Cabaret Theatre, 301 19th Street North. Presented by Opera Birmingham. 7:30 p.m. Friday, 2:30 p.m. Sunday. Visit operabirmingham. org. March 12: BCBS of Alabama’s 2nd Annual Leprechaun Leap 5K and Fun Run. 8 a.m. Town Hall at the Preserve, 601 Preserve Way, Hoover. Benefiting Easter Seals of the Birmingham Area. $30 registration. Visit runsignup.com. March 12: 2016 Taste of Teal Gala. Cahaba Grand Conference Center, 3660 Grandview Parkway. Benefiting the Laura Crandall Brown Foundation. $75-$100. Visit thinkoflaura.org. March 17-April 2: “All in the Timing.” Theatre Downtown, 2410 5th Ave. South. Six plays in one evening. $12-$18. 8 p.m. Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays. Visit theatredowntown.org. March 31: Relay for Life. UAB.