We’re with you every step of the way. Throughout your life, you experience ups and downs, victories and challenges, sickness and health. And UAB Women & Infants Center is there for it all. Offering an exceptional level of care and a full range of comprehensive services, treating everything from the simple to the complex. Whether you’re having a baby, battling cancer or struggling with incontinence or infertility, for everything you need, we’re with you every step of the way.
uabmedicine.org/women
- D I S C O V E R -
STORIES T H AT
ACTUALLY
HAVE E THA N
*
*
M
OR
140
CHARACTERS CONNECT @ THE SUMMIT
S A K S F I F T H AV E N U E SEPHORA
+
ABHI
+
+
L U L U L E M O N AT H L E T I C A
+
ARHAUS
100 MORE. COMING SOON: COWFISH
+
+
WEST ELM
HANNA ANDERSSON
TIMELESS DESIGNS. EXCEPTIONAL HOMES. Finding the right home is an intimate process of discovery — a journey you can begin with Luxury Portfolio. Our international collection of fine brokerages represents over 15,000 of the world’s most extraordinary residences, artfully displayed on luxuryportfolio.com.
48980 Pimperl Rd, Bay Minette
6,000 sq ft family home on steroids or corporate level hunting retreat. Custom built 11BR 6BA home on 5 acre lake surrounded by 2,035 acres of prime hunting land. For details, contact Mike Reynolds at 251.747.4985.
3526 Lenox Rd, Birmingham
Charming historic English tudor home in Redmont Park with fabulous updates and a beautiful terraced garden and guest house. For details, contact Helen Drennen at 205.222.5688.
554 Castlebridge Ln, Hoover
7 Turnberry Pl, Birmingham
A stunning example 1700’s Georgian Architecture, this estate home is accentuated by the Shoal Creek Country Club lifestyle located between Oak and Double Oak Mountains. For details, contact
Kerry Grinkmeyer at 205.919.6006.
1036 Greymoor Rd, Hoover
Fabulous setting on one of Greystone’s best estate lots! For details, contact Melissa Wise at 205.520.3878.
Quality and exquisite details throughout this home located on 11th Green of Greystone Founders! For details, contact Melissa Wise at 205.520.3878.
1387 Legacy Drive, Hoover
Enter your personal work of art. It starts with the washed brick exterior in the style of an English castle - enter the castle door that leads you to the grand foyer and formal dining room. For details,
contact Kerry Grinkmeyer at 205.531.1965.
5020 Shandwick Cir, Hoover
297 Highland View Dr, Birmingham
A rare opportunity to own a truly unmatched residence with one of the best views in Birmingham. For details, contact Judy Culverhouse at 205.368.1007.
105 Deerwood Lake Dr, Harpersville
Located on a private lake with gated access only 40 minutes from Birmingham, the details of this 4BR home are truly special, the views are fabulous and the fishing is amazing. For details, contact Scott Ford at 205.531.1965.
1011 Lake Heather Rd, Hoover
Enter your personal world of glamour and style at a breathtaking 6BR and 11BA masterpiece on Lake Heather. For details, contact Kerry Grinkmeyer at 205.919.6006.
1429 Legacy Drive, Hoover
1004 Royal Mile, Hoover
A luxurious estate positioned on Legacy’s 13th fairway welcomes family and friends into this perfect resort retreat with panoramic views and a cascading waterfall. For details, contact
Stunning DREAM home nestled on +/- 3.77 acres with incredibly breathtaking mountain views. For details, contact Julie Kim at 205.222.9000.
Anna Fowler at 205.567.5878.
1105 Woodwind Cir, Hoover
Resort living at home with a pool, basketball court and outdoor entertaining. For details, contact Julie Kim at 205.222.9000.
7080 Stoneybrook Crossing, Leeds
European elegance in Southlake Estates - one of a kind showplace. For details, contact Joyce Watson at 205.706.4875.
3008 Briarcliff Rd, Mountain Brook
Stunning property, well built by Johnny Kimbrell. Spacious and no detail spared. For details, contact Liz Phillips-Guest at 205.222.4106.
3225 Brookwood Rd, Mountain Brook
Remodel or create your dream home on Briarcliff Road! Everything is completely on one level. Incredible view back over the valley towards Mountain Brook Country Club. For details, contact Scott Boudreaux at 205.835.9787.
2801 Cherokee Rd, Mountain Brook
5102 Greystone Way, Birmingham
Absolutely stunning renovation on Greystone Founders Course. For details, contact Matt Robinson at 205.907.7171.
2919 Canterbury Rd, Mountain Brook
Unbelievable home on Canterbury Road in the heart of Old Mountain Brook! This 5BR and 4.5BA home has every amenity a family could desire! For details, contact Scott Boudreaux at
Built in 2009, move right in to this stunning and spacious custom built home! For details, contact Stephanie Robinson at 205.229.6247.
Secluded Mountain Brook mansion on +/- 3 acres with a pool. For details, contact Julie Kim at 205.222.9000.
3774 Locksley Dr, Mountain Brook
Charming southern 5 BR estate located in the heart of Mountain Brook on 1.82 acres with a circular drive and pool. For details, contact Kerri Culotta at 205.586.0888.
205.835.9787.
402 Meadow Brook Ln, Mountain Brook
This surprisingly spacious home is located on one of the best streets in Crestline and the dramatic details and quality are simply stunning.
For details, contact Isabelle Lawson at 205.937.9796.
www.realtysouth.luxuryportfolio.com
©2008 Luxury Portfolio Fine Property Collection. TM Offering is subject to errors, omissions, change of price, or withdrawal without notice. All information considered reliable; however, it has been supplied by third parties and should not be relied on as accurate or complete. Equal Housing Opportunity
I N T E R N AT I O N A L®
FINE HOMES DESERVE FINE REPRESENTATION. At RealtySouth, we pride ourselves on earning the trust of those we serve, maintaining discretion and delivering exceptional service. Consider RealtySouth as your representative in the buying and selling process. With more than half of the current luxury home listings in our portfolio and a 61-year history of integrity and character, RealtySouth is the obvious choice.
18 Memory Ln, Mountain Brook
If you’re looking for the convenience of walking to Crestline, the Country Club and not much yard work, here it is! For details, contact Lee Marks at 205.266.3800.
524 Olde English Ln, Mountain Brook
17 Pine Crest Rd, Mountain Brook
Acreage in Springville
+/- 53 acres or rolling pasture and mature hardwoods ready for hunting camp or development, only 30 minutes from Birmingham.
For details, contact Justin Edwards at 205.276.4001.
2924 Southwood Rd, Mountain Brook
This 1928 Southern colonial estate is nestled on beautiful grounds in the heart of old Mountain Brook. For details, contact Stephanie Robinson at 205.229.6247.
151 Pumpkin Hollow Sd, Sterrett
Located on a private lake with gated access only 40 minutes from Birmingham, the details of this 4BR home are truly special. The views are fabulous and the fishing is amazing. For details, contact
Isabelle Lawson at 205.937.9796.
4392 Kings Mountain Ridge, Vestavia Hills
Southern living is at its best in this beautifully appointed traditional family home with fully fenced yard - perfect for pets and kids. For
details, contact Joyce Frey at 205.305.6077.
Gorgeous home with towering ceilings and impressive flag stone patio complete with built in grill and Jacuzzi. For details, contact Michael Wald at 205.541.0940.
1525 Woodridge Pl, Vestavia Hills
4208 Old Leeds Ln, Mountain Brook
Incredibly cool contemporary home with a wonderful view and a beautiful pool! For details, contact Stephanie Robinson at 205.229.6247.
Great open floor plan, a master bedroom on the main level plus a covered porch with a fireplace overlooking the backyard. Walking distance to school and village. For details, contact Tempie Sharley at 205.567.9858.
Perfect home for entertaining - gorgeous kitchen that opens to keeping room, breakfast area, den and dining room. For details, contact Michael Wald at 205.541.0940.
4045 Montevallo Rd, Mountain Brook
With over two acres, a salt water pool, and garage apartment, this updated home and estate lot feels like a private getaway in the Mountains of North Carolina. For details, contact Brian Boehm at 205.238.8154.
3924 Old Leeds Rd, Mountain Brook
Gorgeous upscale condominium located in the Townes of English Village. For details, contact Stephanie Robinson at 205.229.6247.
416 Ves Trc, Vestavia Hills
1 W Montcrest, Mountain Brook
This beautifully updated Crestline home with an open floor plan and large screened in back porch checks all of the boxes for the perfect family home. For details, contact Brian Boehm at 205.238.8154.
4400 Kings Mountain Ridge, Vestavia Hills
Custom built private estate located on a 2 acre lot in the highly coveted Kings Mountain neighborhood of Old Overton Estates.
For details, contact Brad Clement at 205.410.3735.
Under contract. For details, contact Dana Norton at 205.266.5050.
3012 Southwood Rd, Mountain Brook
An estate that affords all the grandeur of luxury living but also the character and history that you won’t find anywhere else in Birmingham at any price. For details, contact Kerry Grinkmeyer
at 205.919.6006.
2316 Fox Glen Cir, Vestavia Hills
Truly better than new! This beautiful 4BR and 3.5BA home situated on the perfect lot in Tanglewood, one of Vestavia’s most popular neighborhoods, has been completely remodeled. For details,
contact Michael Wald at 205.541.0940.
7513 Stratford Pl, Vestavia Hills
Nothing was spared in the renovation of this home with its architectural details and spectacular views. For details, contact Carol Waites at 205.936.8734.
2000 Ves Trace Cir, Vestavia Hills
7319 Wakefield Rd, Vestavia Hills
This Vestavia estate home provides a 24/7/365 luxury vacation lifestyle as well as a comfortable and convenient Birmingham home. For details, contact Kerry Grinkmeyer at 205.919.6006.
Outstanding design and unsurpassed construction with fantastic views! Original design by Henry Sprout Long. Exquisite addition reminscent of the Ritz Carlton Bachelor Gulch completed in 2011.
6225 Cahaba Valley Rd, Birmingham | Matt Robinson 205.907.7171
4350 Kings Mountain Ridge, Vestavia Hills | Charles Valekis 205.862.9780
For details, contact Brad Clement at 205.410.3735.
3380 Hwy 86, Calera | Phyllis Aldredge 205.222.1186
4389 Kings Mountain Ridge, Vestavia Hills | Amy Lawson 205.215.0284
109 Stratford Rd, Homewood | Stephanie Robinson 205.229.6247
501 Kings Mountain Trl, Vestavia Hills | Sherry Cherner 205.960.1063
1291 Legacy Dr, Hoover | Kelli Gunnells 205.281.8545
2784 Rocky Ridge Rd, Vestavia Hills | Jana Hanna 205.835.6188
4021 St. Charles Dr, Hoover | Matt Robinson 205.907.7171
2029 Rosemont Pl, Vestavia Hills | Jana Hanna 205.835.6188
3413 Oak Canyon Dr, Mountain Brook | Julie Ceitlin 205.999.9950
1601 Woodridge Plc, Vestavia Hills | Amy Lawson 205.215.0284
3574 Altadena Park Ln, Vestavia Hills | Jared Walton 205.586.7721
www.realtysouth.luxuryportfolio.com
©2008 Luxury Portfolio Fine Property Collection. TM Offering is subject to errors, omissions, change of price, or withdrawal without notice. All information considered reliable; however, it has been supplied by third parties and should not be relied on as accurate or complete. Equal Housing Opportunity
I N T E R N AT I O N A L®
Live More Fully.
Live in a place designed to fulfill your life. Birmingham’s only Southern Living Inspired Community. Presenting new homes starting in the $400’s. (205) 408-8696 | mtlaurel.com
Accessible golf cart community • Broad, walkable sidewalks • Vibrant Town Center Charming homes • Plentiful green spaces • Boundless activities for the whole family
Southern Living has made their home here, Now, this is your opportunity... What makes Mt Laurel a Southern Living Inspired Community? Mt Laurel combines tree-lined streets, finely crafted homes with inviting front porches, and a vibrant town center – all in a walkable, planned community wrapped in nature. It’s a lifestyle disguised as a new home. Come, experience it firsthand.
Coming Soon, Mt Laurel’s Southern Living Inspired Home This fall, we invite you to experience our latest collaboration with Southern Living. Mt Laurel will debut Birmingham’s first Southern Living Inspired Home, a showcase of current southern design thoughtfully-crafted for a sustainable community. Discover the latest design trends and uniquely Mt Laurel offerings. Coming October 2017.
mtlaurel.com | (205) 408-8696
Terry Chapman: John Cook:
Director of Sales– Birmingham Barons
President of Business Electronics
The
BUSINESS ELECTRONICS
Birmingham Barons Partnership At Business Electronics you are more than a customer. You are a partner in technology, productivity and success. John Cook and Terry Chapman talk about implementing the BE Partnership. Q.What interested you most about a partnership with BE and The Barons?
Terry: It is easy to see why we wanted to partner with the premier sports club in Alabama. We originally won their business when they were in Hoover, and now they’re really shining as a club downtown and have led the way for a revitalization of a whole section of Birmingham. We have been very excited to see them grow and expand through the years! John: We like knowing that we are working with a local company that has so much to offer in technology solutions. BE is a leader in helping businesses get more out of their technology budget. We’ve really enjoyed the years of support and how they make everything easy!
Q. What sets BE and The Barons apart from other companies in the same fields?
Terry: The Barons games are one of the coolest things to do in Alabama. The vision of their management team is exceptional and their concept of a ballpark with a backdrop of the downtown
skyline is right on target. Everyone who has been to Regions Field to see them play knows what a beautiful experience it is and can’t wait to return! John: BE keeps our behind the scene operations running and that lets us shine on the field as well. Without great printers and copiers our whole organization would come to a halt. That will never happen with BE because of their reliability and expertise.
Q. What has been the best part about working with each other?
Terry: John is very involved with so many community groups and sets high standards for himself and his team. It makes you proud to partner with someone who works so hard and expects nothing less than excellence. John: Terry and the BE team are always there when we need them. And their response time is the tops in town! I am very pleased with the customer service and support that all of his team has provided us. Very timely and extremely professional.
TECHNOLOGY EXPERTS INTERACTIVE/DIGITAL SIGNAGE PRINTING SYSTEMS MANAGED SERVICES WORKFLOW SOLUTIONS TELEPHONE SYSTEMS 219 Oxmoor Circle Birmingham, Alabama 35209 205-942-6007
www.businesselectronics.com
Life is Better at The
Ridge.
The Ridge is where lake and life truly meet. Whether you’re looking for a new getaway in the most pristine homes and homesites available in South Ridge Harbor, a rustic-modern design in Russell Cabins, or a classic farmhouse-style home in Ridge Run, The Ridge offers all this and more. The Ridge residents have access to an array of amenities, including The Ridge Marina, Beach Park, and The Ridge Club, a 10-acre recreation complex with tennis, cente swimming, and children’s play park. fitness center,
PHOTO COURTESY OF
*Russell Cabins
Ridge Run
South Ridge Harbor
Homes & Homesites Available RUSSELLLANDSONLAKEMARTIN.COM |
256.215.7011
| LAKE MARTIN, ALABAMA
the
METRO
team
EDITORIAL
Joe O’Donnell Editor/Publisher joe@b-metro.com
Robin Colter Creative Director
YOU CAN DO MORE THAN EARN YOUR DEGREE ONLINE, YOU CAN RISE WITH THE TIDE.
robin@b-metro.com
Rosalind Fournier Associate Editor
ros@b-metro.com
ADVERTISING/MARKETING Cathy Fingerman Associate Publisher
cathy@b-metro.com
Joni Ayers Marketing Specialist joni@b-metro.com
Amy Tucker Marketing Specialist amy@b-metro.com
Elizabeth O’Donnell Accounting elizabeth@b-metro.com
Contributing Writers
ONLINE LEARNING
Gabby Bates, Lee Ann Brown, Josh Byers, Micah Cargo, Jesse Chambers, John Croyle, J’Mel Davidson, Cherri Ellis, Heidi Elnora, Rosalind Fournier, Tom Gordon, Trevor Hale, Lanier Isom, Tracy James, Angela Karen, Joey Kennedy, Brett Levine, Theresa Long, Andy McWhorter, Lindsey Osborne, Paget Pizitz, Phillip Ratliff, Cynthia Ryan, Dallas Teague Snider, Tommy Stevenson, Charlie Thigpen, Jan Walsh
Contributing Photographers Billy Brown, Edward Badham, Jared Bash, Marc Bondarenko, Cameron Carnes, Liesa Cole, Eric Dejuan, Elizabeth DeRamus, Joseph De Sciose, Lindsey Griffin, Beau Gustafson, Brian Francis, Beth Hontzas, Jim Lafferty, Angela Karen, Nik Layman, Meg McKinney, Art Meripol, Jaysen Michael, Michael Moore, Karim Shamsi-Basha, Jerry Siegel, Chuck St. John, Becky Stayner
When you earn your degree online from Alabama, it doesn’t say you earned it online. It says you are a graduate from one of the top universities in the country. It says you are part of a tradition of excellence. It says you belong to a worldwide community of people who do more than graduate, they lead. It says you are among those who Rise with the Tide.
BamaByDistance.ua.edu/bMetro 800-467-0227 10 B-METRO.COM
B–Metro is published monthly by Fergus Media LLC 1314 Cobb Lane South Birmingham, AL 35205 (205) 202-4182 Printed by American Printing Co., Birmingham, AL
First things First: peruse the dessert menu. Consider “old Fashioned� a Compliment. and a darn good CoCktail. have your steak and eat it, too.
2300 Woodcrest Place at the e mbassy suites birmingham 205.879.9995 For Menus & Additional Information, visit RuthsChris.net B-METRO.COM
11
LIBERTY PARK
Living
“We like to entertain neighbors, visitors and friends." Liberty Park is the perfect place for that, and the perfect home for the Francisco family.
For Aldin Francisco and his family, Liberty Park has been nothing short of a blessing.
Aldin and his wife, Geraldine, moved to the United States in 2003, when Geraldine was offered a job as an RN in Pensacola, Florida. Aldin began working as a mechanical engineer at Gulf Power a couple of months later.
The family soon settled in Birmingham, choosing to build a home in Liberty Park. Geraldine is now a nurse practitioner, a certified diabetes educator and a clinical science liaison, and Aldin works for Alabama Power Company.
“We instantly fell in love with this beautiful United States–a new country, a new life, new baby, warm and friendly people, Southern hospitality and so many blessings that have continued to grace our family ever since,” Aldin says.
The Francisco’s three children are all in school. Their daughter Tricia is a medical student at Medical College of Georgia (MCG) in Augusta. Dana, their other daughter, is an incoming senior chemical and bio-molecular engineering student at Georgia Tech.
1
The Francisco’s son, Al Dean, who loves art and sports, is an incoming eighth grader at Liberty Park Middle School. “Having relocated a few times now, Geraldine and I know the importance of finding the right place that can support the priorities we desire for our family good school, friendly neighbors, safe and quiet area, nice parks and lakes nearby, walking trails, golf course, pools and outdoor sports activities, close proximity to shopping malls, groceries, airport, hospitals, and other amenities,” Aldin says. “Liberty Park has all of these and more. It exudes quality and class. All the houses are designed professionally, built with quality materials, and complete with curb appeal with colorful trees and plants on every lot.”
Liberty Park real estate professionals Donna Bonds and Shannon Pate worked with Aldin and Geraldine in building the perfect home for their family. “They are very professional, knowledgeable, fair, friendly, and will always find time to assist you,” Aldin says. “We like to entertain neighbors, visitors and friends.” Liberty Park is the perfect place for that, and the perfect home for the Francisco family.
2
1. Beautiful lakes, parks, waterfalls and walking trails make Liberty Park a natural oasis. 2. Old Overton Club with its magnificent 18-hole golf course is located in the middle of Liberty Park. Memberships are available. 3. Highly-rated Vestavia Hills schools within Liberty Park include Liberty Park Elementary and Liberty Park Middle schools.
3
DISCOVER A HOMETOWN LIKE NO OTHER. Every hometown begins with a story. But
One visit and you’ll see why our Liberty Park
unlike most hometowns, Liberty Park’s
families call this a sanctuary, an oasis – and
story began with nearly 4,000 acres of
the only hometown that’s small enough to
spectacular land and a master-planned
know your neighbors, yet big enough to
design so grand it brings together the
fulfill your family’s brightest future.
traditions of yesterday, the lifestyle of today
Come discover a hometown the way it was
and the promises of tomorrow
New Homes from High $300s to High $600s+
always meant to be. Visit Liberty Park today.
Models Now Open
(205) 945-6401 libertypark.com
All information contained herein deemed accurate but not warranted. Liberty Park Joint Venture, LLP, Liberty Park Properties, and their respective builders and agents, are not responsible for errors or omissions. Plan information subject to change without notice.
CityGuide BIRMINGHAM METRO
THE
JULY2017 Volume 8 Number 9
Photo courtesy of McWane Science Center
Photo Shutterstock
Photo by Jaysen Michael
58. SPORTS TOWN
What does it take to make a great sports city? Written by Luke Robinson
Photo by Jaysen Michael
Special Promotional Section 91. Positive Maturity’s 4th Annual Top 50 Over 50
66. MY PART OF TOWN
The inside scoop on Mt Laurel, Edgewood, Avondale, Crestline, Downtown. Photography by Jaysen Michael
76. MY FAVORITE THINGS
We stopped by the Pepper Place Saturday Market and asked shoppers for their favorite things about the city.
A PUBLICATION OF
Photography by Karim Shamsi-Basha
80. MY BIRMINGHAM
The personal side to the city. Well-known Birminghamians tell us about their special city. Written by Rosalind Fournier, Photography by Beau Gustafson
cover photos by beau gustafson 14 B-METRO.COM
METRO
Your Next Adventure
SAVE 20% WHEN YOU STAY WEEKDAYS CODE: BEACH
The # 1 Resort on Florida’s Emerald Coast!
Beach to Bay Accommodations • Four Championship Golf Courses • Year-Round Events Endless Free Amenities • Dozens of Shopping & Dining Options • Tennis • Water Sports
866.602.8171 • Sandestin.com/bmetro
CityGuide BIRMINGHAM METRO
THE
the lists...
18. Chronicle by Joe O’Donnell 20. List: The Arts 24. List: Beer and Beer Bars 28. List: Coffee 30. List: Festivals 34. List: Food 38. List: Music 42. List: Outdoors
THE crowd at slossfest Photo courtesy of Red Mountain Entertainment 16 B-METRO.COM
JULY2017
46. List: Pets 50. List: Shopping 54. List: Theatre 115. List: Hospitals 118. List: Schools 120. B-Curious: I was a juvenile
delinquent. By Joey Kennedy
SPECIAL PROMOTION SECTION//BEST OF THE CITY
B-METRO’S
BEST HEALTH of the city
F
ALABAMA VISION AND HEARING CENTER Founder and Medical Director of Alabama Vision and Hearing Center, Dr. Price Kloess says it is experience, training, and technology that sets the center apart when it comes to LASIK surgery. The surgery is done using advanced blade-free LASIK technology which insures precision, comfort, and gives patients peace of mind. The goal of LASIK is to reduce dependence on corrective lenses and restore clear, natural vision. It takes only seconds to treat a lifetime of nearsightedness, farsightedness and astigmatism. Dr. Kloess is joined in practice with two other Corneal Specialist Ophthalmologists: Dr. Andrew Velazquez and Dr. Andrew Bartlett. Schedule a complimentary LASIK consultation to discuss your options with Birmingham’s most trusted eye surgeons! 3928 Montclair Road, Suite 100, Birmingham, AL 35213 | 205.592.3911 7191 Cahaba Valley Road, Suite 203, Hoover, AL 35242 | 205.991.2021 613 1st Street North, Alabaster, AL 35007 | 205-620-2292 alabamavisioncenter.com
THE GOOD, BAD, AND UGLY! In recent years, the consumption of carbonated soft drinks and sweetened and flavored beverages have increased dramatically. Due to the preference for both sweet and sour drinks, the prevalence of dental erosion has also increased significantly- partly because many drinks have added acid to balance the sweetness of the sugar and give a tangy taste. This acid causes erosion and irreversible loss of tooth structure, which can be as bad or worse than tooth decay! Studies conducted in Birmingham categorized 379 beverages available in our city based on erosive effects on teeth. Sodas, waters, sports drinks, fruit juices, energy drinks, teas and coffees were evaluated. A shocking 93% of them were found to be erosive to teeth. This included all sports drinks and flavored waters that were tested. Water is still the best choice, however, all waters are not equal. Birmingham municipal water is far better than many bottled waters. So...Stay hydrated, but “think before you drink” this summer. Visit the blog on our website, www.woodandspooner.com, for a complete listing of beverages and how they compare.. some results will surprise you! We are a Cosmetic and General Dentistry practice located in the heart of Vestavia with a focus on comprehensive care, patient experience, results and education. Our goal is to bring you helpful and informative information to improve your awareness and oral health.
502 Montgomery Hwy, Suite 201• Birmingham, AL 35216 205-822-2808
woodandspooner.com
18 B-METRO.COM
Chronicle
W
hen people ask me what I like about Birmingham, I often think of Elvis. Not just because if Elvis’ father Vernon had turned left instead of right leaving Tupelo, we’d have Graceland. But because whenever people asked Elvis what he liked about Memphis, he’d curl his lip and say “everythin.” Maybe I am a bit more judgmental than The King, but there is not much I don’t like about Birmingham. It’s big enough to have wonderful things to see and do, great restaurants to enjoy, and a terrific arts and music scene to explore. And it’s small enough where you can actually enjoy those great things about life in a city without a two and a half hour drive or a seven week wait for a table. Still what I like the most about Birmingham is that this is where my life happened. It is where I married, had children, had grandchildren, learned a business, and came to the realization that at 57 I can channel Jimmy Stewart and decide I really had a wonderful life. And the best thing is God willing I have many more years to enjoy my adopted hometown, during an era where even the most cynical among us accept that Birmingham continues year after year to get better, while retaining the charm and comfort that makes this such a great place to live. In celebration of that great place, we decided this month to table our normal editorial lineup and produce a guide to the city. We hope you will think it is full of information and insights, as well as a great lineup of personalities to serve as our tour guide to what is great about this town. I hope you enjoy reading this month’s issue.
© Chuck St John
DOWNTOWN BIRMINGHAM • 205-251-3381 • WWW.LEVYSFINEJEWELRY.COM
THE
ARTS
ART CRAWL
Art Crawl, an arts show/street fair held every first Thursday along 2nd Avenue North surrounding The Pizitz Building, is proof positive that our collective craving right now for all things local extends well into the world of art. Some 3,000 art enthusiasts attend each month to meet and support over 75 local artists, musicians and performers. Artists display a wide variety of wares, from paintings and prints to jewelry, clothing and ceramics. “Birmingham Art Crawl is a staple in our city’s artistic community,” says Sarah Godbee, a dedicated Art Crawl volunteer. “It provides the opportunity for all walks of life to be exposed to the local talent of the Magic City on an engaging and consistent basis. The atmosphere is beaming with expressive creativity, and by supporting our local artists, we contribute to the growth of our city. Volunteering with the non-profit has been a valuable experience for me and it will continue to be for years to come.”
GALLERIES AEIVA
The Abroms-Engel Institute for the Visual Arts (AEIVA) opened in January 2014 as UAB’s dynamic institute of visual art, serving as a cultural gateway between the UAB campus and the broader Birmingham community. AEIVA provides UAB students, faculty, and staff as well as the broader Birmingham and Southeastern community an opportunity to engage with art and artists of regional, national, and international significance and serves as a dynamic nexus for the intersection of art and ideas. Mon-Fri 10am-6pm, Sat 12-6pm 1221 10th Ave. S., Birmingham, AL 35205 205-975-6436 uab.edu/cas/aeiva
Arceneaux Gallery
The gallery is a locally owned family business in Homewood and local artist venue to sell and display works. You’ll also find antique prints, maps and photos, and custom framing is available. Tues-Fri 10-5, Sat 10-3. 1830 29th Ave. S. Homewood, AL 35209 205-802-2800 arceneauxgallery.com
beta pictoris gallery
beta pictoris gallery is a contemporary art gallery and space dedicated to supporting creativity with a focus on experimental and issue-driven works. Through representing emerging, established, and internationally recognized artists, the gallery is committed to bringing a global perspective to contemporary issues and practices across the visual arts. (Closed June 28—July 25.) Wed-Fri 1-4pm, Sat 11am-3pm or by appointment. 2411 2nd Ave. N., Birmingham, AL 35203 205-413-2999 betapictorisgallery.com
Canary Gallery LLC
The Canary Gallery has a simple motto: good art for good people. Our unique event space highlights excellent artistry which is exhibited on a nightly basis. Located in the heart of the loft district in downtown Birmingham, the canary gallery is a perfect place to view work from local artists, host an event, take an art class, or simply enjoy a glass of wine. Tues-Sat 11-8 pm 2201 2nd Ave. N., Birmingham, AL 35203 205-224-5300 canarygalleryllc.com
Daniel Day Gallery and Melody
Daniel Day Gallery/Dream Mecca Studio is a venue for local artists of all sorts with a full gallery and media room for music events. Mecca room is available for private parties and benefit organizations. 3025 6th Ave. S., Birmingham, AL 35233 205-731-9420 dreammeccastudio.com
Gallery 1930
Alabama Artist showcased in this upscale gallery in the heart of English Village in Mountain Brook. Mon-Fri 10-5 pm or by appointment. 1930 Cahaba Road, Birmingham, AL 35223 205-870-1930 www.artgallery1930.com 20 B-METRO.COM
Grand Bohemian Gallery
The Grand Bohemian Gallery, located within the Grand Bohemian luxury hotel, is one of the most eclectic and visually stimulating of art galleries. 2655 Lane Park Rd., Mountain Brook, AL 35223 205-203-4714 grandbohemiangallery.com
An art gallery, event venue and performance space in Pepper Place, Scene is a downtown relative to Gallery 1930. 2801 2nd Ave. S., Pepper Place, Birmingham, AL 35233 205-703-8811 scenebirmingham.com
Lite Box Gallery
Sojourns
Located in the Young and Vann building, Lite Box Gallery has a rotating selection of regional emerging artists. Wed-Fri 12-5, Sat 10-2pm 1731 1st Ave. N., Birmingham, AL 35203 205-716-1665 liteboxgallery.wordpress.com
Naked Art
Located in historic Forest Park. Local (Alabamabased) artists, fine art and craftsmen, with over 70 works on display and for sale. 3831 Clairmont Ave., Birmingham AL 35222 205-595-3553 Tues-Sat, 10:30-6 Extended holiday hours available Dec.1-23. nakedartusa.com
A gallery/ shop full of unique items, sourced through fair trade from around the globe. You never know what you might find in this wonderful little shop. Tues-Fri 10-6, Mon and Sat 10:30-5:30 2017 3rd Ave. N., Birmingham, AL 35203 205-323-5680 adventureartpeace.com
Space One Eleven
Space One Eleven’s mission is to provide professional opportunities for artists, create a forum for public understanding of contemporary art, and offer arts education to area youth. 2409 2nd Ave. N., Birmingham, AL 35203 205-328-0553 spaceoneeleven.org
Portraits, Inc.
MUSEUMS
Birmingham Museum of Art
The mission of the Birmingham Museum of Art is to spark the creativity, imagination, and liveliness of Birmingham by connecting all its citizens to the experience, meaning, and joy of art. Founded in 1951, the Birmingham Museum of Art today has one of the finest collections in the Southeastern United States, with more than 24,000 paintings, sculptures, prints, drawings, and decorative arts representing a numerous diverse cultures, including Asian, European, American, African, PreColumbian, and Native American. Among other highlights, the museum’s collection of Asian art is considered the finest and most comprehensive in the Southeast, and its Vietnamese ceramics one of the finest in the U.S. The Museum also is home to a remarkable Kress Collection of Renaissance and Baroque paintings, sculpture, and decorative arts from the late 13th century to c.1750, and the 18th-century European decorative arts include superior examples of English ceramics and French furniture. Tues-Sat 10-5pm, Sun noon-9 (closed Mon and major holidays) 2000 Rev. Abraham Woods, Jr. Blvd., Birmingham, AL 35203
205-254-2565
Since 1942, Portraits, Inc., has been privileged artsbma.org to assist our nation’s most remarkable families and institutions with commissioning fine art portraits. Mon-Fri 8:30-5pm 2801 6th. Ave. S., Mountain Brook, AL 35233 Birmingham Museum of Art Director 205-879-1222 In her 20-year tenure, Birmingham Museum of Art Director Gail Andrews has neiportraitsinc.com
GAIL ANDREWS
Red Dot Gallery
Opened in 2004 by local artists Scott Bennett and Dori DeCamillis, this fine art gallery, working study and home for art instruction features the works of the gallery owners, select pieces by other local and occasionally national artists, and the works of their own students. 1001 Stuart St., Homewood, AL 35209 Sat 9-12, during class times and by appointment. 205-870-7608 reddotgallery.com
Scene
ther rested on her own laurels nor allowed the museum to rest on its own. She knows that housing the most prominent collections—both permanent and visiting—of art in the city while serving reliably as a major attraction for visitors and residents alike has never been enough without continuing to push the envelope…especially not for the art audiences of today. Andrews, who is preparing to retire this fall, admits this can be challenging for all traditional arts organizations. “The most positive change I’ve seen is that our audience has grown,” she says, “but it’s a shifting market. And what more traditional arts groups like the Birmingham Museum of Art, the symphony, the opera and the ballet are all trying to figure out is how to grow the younger audience. What do Millennials want? “And we all arrive at pretty much the same answer,” she continues. “They’re more spontaneous, they like the social experience, and they like layers of experience.” Andrews and her staff have delivered. Events like Art on the Rocks and Art after 5 have attracted people of all ages and interests to soak in live music, a cocktail or two, unexpected entertainment (breakdancing to Bollywood, anyone?) arts education and, of course, art itself—plenty of which guests are invited to join in making themselves. “I think it’s healthy for our brains,” says Andrews. “People are so much more connected than they used to be, because of the Internet, the global relationships, and the communications we have that are so instantaneous. So many streams are coming in all the time. People are aware and curious, which is exciting.”
B-METRO.COM 21
ATTRACTIONS Alabama Iron and Steel Museum
THE MCWANE CENTER
Birmingham has long been known as a kid-friendly city, but probably no family-oriented attraction is better known than McWane Science Center—the massive, masterfully renovated building downtown where every square inch of space is designed to inspire awe in kids of all ages. Touch a shark or stingray, see a living recreation of the Cahaba River up close, and visit exotic sea life from the Indo-Pacific region in McWane’s World of Water. Upstairs, little ones can play, build and explore throughout Itty Bitty Magic City. Older kids can learn the science behind shooting hoops; lie on the bed of nails; build a catenary arch out of giant foam pieces, and try about a dozen more state-of-theart educational experiences. And McWane’s John W. Woods IMAX® Dome Theater shows new films all the time under its five-story, domed screen. That’s a tiny sample of what you’ll find—and don’t expect to find it all on a single visit, either. “At McWane our goal is to excite and inspire our visitors to discover how much fun learning can be,” says McWane’s CEO and president Amy Templeton. “We believe in lifelong learning, so whether you are one or 101 you will love spending a day at McWane!”
Located on the grounds of Tannehill Ironworks Historical State Park, the Museum houses a variety of exhibits dedicated to the iron industry of Alabama. Sun 12:30-4:30, Tues-Fri 8:30-4:30, Sat. 9-4:30 • 12632 Confederate Pkwy., McCalla, AL 35111 • 205-477-5711 • tannehill.org
Alabama Jazz Hall of Fame
Located in historic Carver Theater, Museum has houses exhibits from famous Alabama Jazz artists who have made major contributions to the world of jazz. 1631 4th Ave. N., Birmingham, AL 35203 • 205-254-2731• jazzhall.com
Alabama Sports Hall of Fame
The Alabama Sports Hall of Fame pays tribute to local and state sports heroes and legends. 2150 Richard Arrington Jr. Blvd. N., Birmingham, AL 35203 205-323-6665 ashof.org
Alabama Theatre
Built in 1927, The Alabama Theatre was used primarily as a movie palace for 55 years. In 1987, the theatre was purchased by Birmingham Landmarks Inc. to host live events and performances as well as films. 1917 3rd Avenue North, Birmingham AL 35203 205-252-2262 • alabamatheatre.com
Alabama Wildlife Center
Alabama’s largest wildlife rehabilitation center cares for injured and orphaned native wildlife and returns them to the wild. The Treetop Nature Trail is an elevated boardwalk in the woods featuring six species of native raptors. Oak Mountain State Park. 100 Terrace Drive, Pelham, AL 35124 • 205-6636867• awrc.org
Aldridge Gardens
Among the walking trail and six-acre lake, visitors find beauty, tranquility and nature and art in balance. 3530 Lorna Rd, Hoover, AL 35216 (205) 682-8019 • www.aldridgegardens.com
American Village
American Village is a classroom, a theater, and a museum of ideas where visitors are transported on a trip back over 200 years. Costumed historical interpreters lead visitors through interactive experiences. 3727 Highway 119, Montevallo, AL 35115 205-665-3535 • www.americanvillage.org
Barber Vintage Motorsports Museum
The museum houses over 750 motorcycles and 45 cars and is the largest collection in the U.S. The Barber Motorsports Park is a 740-acre multi-purpose motor racing facility. 6030 Barber Motorsports Pkwy., Leeds, AL 35094 205-699-7275 • www.barbermuseum.org
Birmingham Botanical Gardens
Sixty-seven acres of glorious nature in all its splendor, everything from Southern wildflowers to a Japanese Garden with tea house and bonsai. 2612 Lane Park Road • 205-414-3950 • www.bbgardens.org 22 B-METRO.COM
Birmingham Civil Rights Institute
Across the street from the historic 16th Street Baptist Church, the Institute showcases how our city has changed and how we helped change the nation. It’s both a museum and a forum for understanding the universal problem of racism and discrimination. • Tues-Sat 10-5, Sun 1-5 520 16th St. N., Birmingham, AL 35203 1-866-328-9696 • bcri.org
Birmingham Holocaust Education Center
BHEC houses an extensive Holocaust research library, archives, and the permanent exhibition Darkness Into Life. Mon-Thurs 10-3 (please call ahead) 2222 Arlington Ave., Birmingham, AL 35205 205-795-4176 bhamholocausteducation.org
Birmingham Negro Southern League Museum
The Negro Southern League Museum presents the history of African-American baseball and the league’s impact on Birmingham and the world of professional baseball. Mon 11-5, Tues 8-5, Wed-Fri 11-5, Sat 12-5 120 16th St. S., Birmingham, AL 35233 205-581-3040 • www.birminghamnslm.org
Birmingham Zoo
Approximately 950 animals of 230 species call the 122-acre Birmingham Zoo home, including sea lions, rhinos and endangered species from six continents. Attractions include: Train, carousel and children’s zoo. The Trails of Africa makes the Birmingham Zoo a national leader in the care and conservation of threatened elephants. 9-5 Mon-Fri, 9-7 Sat-Sun 2630 Cahaba Rd., Birmingham, AL 35223 205-879-0409 • birminghamzoo.com
Heart of Dixie Railroad Museum
Dedicated to the preservation, restoration, and operation of historic railway equipment. Days and hours vary; visit website. 1919 9th St., Calera, AL 205-668-3435 hodrrm.org
The Lyric Theatre
Built in 1914, the Lyric is one of few theatres still existing that was specifically designed for vaudeville shows. Stars such as the Marx Brothers, Mae West, Sophie Tucker, Will Rogers and Milton Berle played
the Lyric. Today it has been restored as a vibrant performance and event venue. 800 3rd Ave. N. Birmingham, AL 35203 (205) 252-2262 • lyricbham.com
McWane Center
Designed to inspire a lifelong love of learning, McWane Science Center has welcomed millions of visitors since opening its doors in 1998 to see, hear, touch, and experience the wonders of science. Also offering IMAX Dome theater. Mon-Fri 9-6, Sat 10-6, Sun 12-6 200 19th St. N., Birmingham, AL 35203 205-714-8300 • mcwane.org
Rickwood Field
America’s oldest baseball park, Rickwood Field served as the home park for both the Birmingham Barons and Birmingham Black Barons. (Rickwood is now closed for repairs and will reopen in 2018.) 1137 2nd Ave. W., Birmingham, AL 35204 205-458-8161 • rickwood.com
Ruffner Mountain Nature Center
Ruffner Mountain Nature Center is a 1,000+ acre nature preserve with over 11 miles of hiking trails, historic sites, picnic pavilion with grill, and a visitors’ center with displays of native Alabama animals and mining-era artifacts. Trails open daily, dawn to dusk. 1214 81st St. S., Birmingham, AL 35206 ruffnermountain.org
Sloss Furnaces
Sloss Furnaces produced iron for nearly 90 years, giving rise to the wealth of the city. Now a National Historic Landmark, Sloss Furnaces, with its warren of pipes and smokestacks, offers a glimpse into South’s great industrial past. It also serves as a unique community gathering place for major music and food festivals Tues-Sat 10-4, Sun 12-4 and for special events 20 32nd St. N., Birmingham, AL 35222 205-254-2025 • slossfurnaces.com
Southern Environmental Center
The Southern Environmental Center educates individuals and organizations on ways to build more livable communities. Located on the campus of Birmingham-Southern College. 900 Arkadelphia Rd., Birmingham, AL 35254 205-226-4934 • bsc.edu/sec
Southern Museum of Flight
The Southern Museum of Flight, established in 1966, is one of the largest aviation museums in the Southeast, with 100 aircraft to enjoy. Tues-Sat 9:30 am-4:30pm 4343 73rd St. N., Birmingham, AL 35206 205-833-8226 southernmuseumofflight.org
Uptown and the BJCC
Located next to the Westin Birmingham, Uptown is a premier entertainment district with restaurants/bars that also hosts events for the community and serves as a welcoming hotspot for the one million guests visiting the BJCC for concerts, conventions or meetings each year. 2100 Richard Arrington Blvd. N., Birmingham, AL 35203 (205) 458-8400 • bjcc.org uptownbham.com
Vulcan Park and Museum
Vulcan is the world’s largest cast iron statue; made of 100,000 pounds of iron and 56 feet tall, he stands at the top of Red Mountain.Vulcan Park and Museum features spectacular views, an interactive history museum that examines Vulcan and Birmingham’s story, and a premier venue for private events. Museum: Mon-Sun 10-6; Observation Tower: 10am-10pm 1701 Valley View Dr., Birmingham, AL 35209 (205) 933-1409 visitvulcan.com
ALABAMA SPLASH ADVENTURE
Alabama Splash Adventure first opened as Visionland in 1998. Visionland was born out of the collaboration of 11 cities to build an amusement and water park in the Birmingham area. Today, the park is owned and operated by the Koch family, who has over 60 years of experience in the amusement and waterpark industry. The park now includes a number of valuable features including free parking, free soft drinks, free sunscreen and free inner tubes. The World Famous Rampage wooden roller coaster is a highlight and popular attraction for visitors. General admission daily tickets and season passes are available for purchase. 4599 Splash Adventure Parkway, Bessemer, AL 35022, alabamasplash.com. B-METRO.COM 23
BEER GOOD PEOPLE BREWING COMPANY
Even if you’ve never tasted a locally crafted brew from Good People Brewing Company, chances are you’ve seen the logo—that iconic yellow pickup truck pictured on bumper stickers and t-shirts all over town. It’s the perfect symbol for a business that’s both down-home and on the move. Founded in 2006 by Michael Sellers and Jason Malone, Good People is the oldest and largest brewery in Alabama. They’ve received recognition from the likes of Food & Wine, which named Good People’s IPA as one of the best in the nation, and Men’s Journal, which named Snake Handler as one of the 101 best beers in the country. BeerAdvocate lists Good People’s El Gordo and Hitchhiker IPAs among the 10 best Southern beers. And after you’ve tried these award winners, come back to try one of the limited-release, mixed fermentation barrel-aged ales Good People produces as part of its Funk Farm series. The first craft brewery in the Southeast to can their beers, Good People is currently sold throughout Alabama, Tennessee, Georgia, and the Florida Panhandle—but for the full Good People experience, be sure to stop by the brewery itself, located downtown near Railroad Park. Take a tour, or enjoy beer on draft in the taproom. There’s almost always a food truck parked outside, or if you prefer, bring food in. “We like to think of the brewery as an extension of one’s own backyard,” McCurdy says. “We invite everyone to come have a beer with us—families, babies, dogs, anyone! We want our brewery to be friendly and inviting.”
BREWERIES
Avondale Brewing Company
There’s nothing better than good stories told over great beer. That’s why at Avondale Brewing Company they’ve named all of their beers after the folklore of Avondale. They craft brew with the same unique character and style as the stories they are named after. A collaboration between Coby and Hunter Lake, Avondale Brewery is a locally owned and operated brewery. 201 41st. St. S, Birmingham, AL 35222 205-777-5456 avondalebrewing.com/
Cahaba Brewing Company
Cahaba Brewing Company was founded in the summer of 2011 by a group of friends united by their love of craft beer and home-brewing. From the beginning, Cahaba Brewing Company has had the goal of providing Birmingham with clean and consistent craft beers with a broad variety of flavors and styles. 4500 5th Ave. S, Birmingham, AL 35222 205-578-2616 www.cahababrewing.com/
Ghost Train Brewing Company
Ghost Train is a family-owned brewery. With over 15 years of brewing experience, Taylor and Paige DeBoer have been involved in the Birmingham craft beer scene for many years and have developed all of the brands and recipes offered. 2616 3rd Ave S, Birmingham, AL 35233 205-201-5817 www.ghosttrainbrewing.com/
Good People Brewing Co.
Good People Brewing Company was born, with the sale of their first keg on July 4, 2008, in the owner’s hometown of Birmingham. Offerings now include five year-round brews, four seasonals, and an occasional one-off. Good People is now enjoyed by folks throughout the state. And, according to BeerAdvocate, a leading voice in the beer community, the four highest-rated beers in the South are Good People brews. 114 14th Street S, Birmingham, AL 35233 205-286-2337 www.goodpeoplebrewing.com/
Trim Tab Brewing Company
The creation of TrimTab Brewing Co. was a long, winding journey. Its members came from all walks of life, on different paths of their own – but all were bound by a love for craft beer, and a calling to leave the world a better place than they found it and to create complex, balanced beer. For them, craft beer is a way to make our community a more vibrant, enriching place to live. 2721 5th Ave. S, Birmingham, AL 35233 205-703-0536 trimtabbrewing.com/
GREAT BEER BARS
5 Point Public House and Oyster Bar
5 Point is a combination of two styles—a public house and oyster bar—creating a relaxed gathering spot that’s perfect for locals. In keeping with the pub tradition, 5 Point offers over 40 craft beers, including those brewed in Alabama as well as other ales and lagers from around the country. 1210 20th St S., Birmingham, AL 35205 (205) 918-0726 5pointpublichouse.com/ 24 B-METRO.COM
Powering homes for more than 100 years.
Powering progress all along.
When Alabama Power Company was founded on December 4, 1906, it was the beginning of more than a mere electric utility company. It marked the beginning of our mission to help transform Alabama’s economy and vastly improve the quality of life for its citizens. Today, our continuing commitment to progress, innovation and economic development is one more way we’re partnering with the state to help elevate Alabama. Learn more at AlabamaPower.com.
Š 2017 Alabama Power Company
Carrigan’s Public House
An industrious space turned into a great neighborhood bar with plenty of beer choices and a rooftop bar area overlooking the loft district. 2430 Morris Ave., Birmingham, AL (205) 440-2430 www.carriganspub.com
throughout the metro, making the experience close to home. At the Galleria, Fultondale, Lakeview on Southside, and Inverness. ontapsportscafe.com
and Uptown mean great burgers and beer within an easy drive. www.mugshotsgrillandbar.com
Pale Eddie’s Pour House
Cocktails & Creative pub grub and beer, along with creative cocktails, offered in an industrialchic space with vintage video & arcade games. www.paramountbirmingham.com
The Birmingham location of this Atlanta-based beer and wine emporium features an impressive beer package selection, wine and homebrew supplies, growlers, and an onsite beer bar with patio, with 60 draft choices. 2924 3rd Ave S, Birmingham, AL 35233 (205) 279-2337 www.hopcitybeer.com
A neighborhood gathering spot with free-flowing ales and lagers, craft and high-gravity beers in addition to a unique selection of wine and liquors. Located in the loft district, the bar has a cozy pub ambiance. Visit the outdoor patio for cornhole, giant jenga and beer pong games. Live music acts emphasize acoustic and singer/songwriter performances. 2308 2nd Ave N., Birmingham AL 35203 (205) 297 0052 paleeddiespourhouse.com
The J Clyde
Rogue Tavern
Hop City Craft Beer and Wine
Nationally known as a premiere beer bar, the J. Clyde has been at the forefront of Birmingham’s love affair with beer. Owned by Jerry Hartley, the kitchen at J. Clyde keeps the crowd satisfied. The patio is a lively slice of Birmingham fun, fronted on the city’s picturesque cobblestone lane. 1312 Cobb Lane, Birmingham AL 35205 (205) 939-1312 Jclyde.com
On Tap Sports Cafe
Great beer selection on tap and in bottles. Sports on the plethora of televisions and good food. It makes for a good combination with locations
Next door to Pale Eddie’s on Second Avenue North, Rogue Tavern has a great beer selection, a well-regarded menu, and live music. www.roguetavern.com
Todd’s PUB
Tin ceiling, large windows, gigantic bar with plenty of taps, along with oysters and pot pies. This is classic pub territory with a splash of celebrity at Uptown Birmingham. www.toddenglishpub.com
Mugshots
Three locations in the metro, Vestavia, Inverness
DANNER KLINE
Free the Hops / Alabamians for Specialty Beer (FTH) In 2004, Danner Kline joined forces with fellow Alabamians to found Free the Hops / Alabamians for Specialty Beer (FTH), a grassroots, non-profit organization whose stated mission is to help bring the world’s best beers to Alabama. That sounds simple unless you understand the politics that historically have made beer regulation bizarrely complicated in Alabama—regulation that has limited consumers’ access to many craft beers, the ability of local brewpubs to develop successful business models, and more. To find a way past these obstacles, Kline became a keep observer of how politics work. “I paid attention to what was going on in the legislature every day,” he says. FTH saw its first major success with the passage of the Free the Hops Gourmet Beer Bill in May 2009, increasing the limit on alcohol-by-volume in beer from six percent to 13.9, allowing the introduction of many popular craft beers previously unavailable in our state. (After its passage, a major beer wholesaler hired Kline as their craft-beer manager to help navigate the new waters.) Other successes have followed, while still more battles are ongoing—and no one can question that the enthusiasm for new, local breweries and brewpubs is stronger than ever. Meanwhile, Kline, who stepped down as FTH president in 2007, is channeling what he learned from FTH advocacy into a newfound passion for politics. He is now running for Congress in Alabama’s 6th Congressional district. He sees it as a worthy fight to work for issues he cares deeply about, including public education, healthcare and building new job opportunities. “I have a natural inclination to think big,” Kline says, “and I have a tenacious personality. We had many setbacks during my time with Free the Hops where we thought we were going to get a bill passed in a given year, and it ended up not happening…and I had to endure all of that and just keep going. But I’m really stubborn, and I’m not one who’s going 26 B-METRO.COM to give up.”
Paramount
Revolve Kitchen & Brew
The food at this American beer garden and tavern off Highway 280 can be paired with 75 beers. www.revolvekb.com
Slice Pizza & Brew
As the slogan says, pizza and brew is all they do. At Slice you can find a great selection of local beers as well as some of the city’s best pizza. www.slicebirmingham.com
The Beer Hog
Come hang out at our wooden beer bar and bring your growler to enjoy the 65 beers we have on tap. In addition, at The Beer Hog, we have more than 300 craft beers in bottles on the shelf. You won’t find a selection like ours anywhere else. We want you to have fun drinking, whether you’re enjoying our 50 inch televisions and free Wi-Fi™ or taking in the view on our outdoor patio. 112 Bowling Lane, Pelham, AL 35124 (205) 326-7151 www.thebeerhogal.com
B-METRO’S
BEST EAT of the city
B-METRO’S
BEST of the city
EXPLORE
B-METRO’S
BEST of the city
HOME
B-METRO’S
BEST
of the city
SHOP
B-METRO’S
BEST PLAY of the city
B-METRO’S
BEST
of the city
ARTS
Brookwood Village is the perfect mix of location, selection & atmosphere. From Macy’s to Belk and everything in between. Back To School shopping is fun and stylish, all in one place.
DISCOVER THE VILLAGE
SHOPBROOKWOODVILLAGE.COM
COFFEE
COFFEE HOUSES
THE ABBEY Coffee for the Soul
Coffee shops have always been places to meet up with friends or make new ones, and few places is it more true than at The Abbey in Avondale, where the clientele is still more likely to sit and engage in deep discussion than plug in a laptop to answer emails. The Abbey is about community as much as it is about coffee. It’s also about faith—because The Abbey, a nonprofit project of the Episcopal Diocese of Alabama, is the only coffee shop in Birmingham to employ its own vicar, the Rev. Katie Nakamura Rengers, and offer worship services on Sundays. The crowd ranges from hipsters from increasingly gentrified pockets of Avondale, hungry for a new experience along with a freshly baked muffin or panini sandwich, to folks from the nearby Jimmie Hale Mission. People who work for local nonprofits often gather here to find moral support and sometimes a spiritual context for the challenging work they do. Rengers points out that offering a place of respite and sustenance is itself a mission of the church. “People in the 21st century—if they’re religious or not—are looking for community, good people they can trust, and a safe place to have a conversation about important things. And sometimes having a latte in your hand makes that a little easier.” Rev. Katie Nakamura Rengers at The Abbey
The Abbey Coffee Shop The Abbey is a community coffee shop in the Avondale neighborhood of Birmingham. It is a nonprofit project of the Episcopal Diocese of Alabama. The Abbey’s mission is to offer a place of hospitality and conversation to the community. Coffee is roasted by Red Bike Coffee in Irondale. Our tea comes from Piper & Leaf Artisan Tea Co. of Huntsville. Baked goods are made right at The Abbey. 131 41st St S, Birmingham, AL 35222 205-703-9538 www.theabbeybham.com/
Church Street Coffee & Books
Everything’s fresh-baked at Church Street Coffee & Books, from the coffee to their famous Breakup Cookies and Treehuggers to housemade granolas and biscotti. Muffins and scones are baked fresh from-scratch every single morning. You’ll find a great selection of books as well as regularly hosted book clubs. 81 Church Street, Mountain Brook, AL 35213 205-870-1117 churchstreetshop.com/
Crestwood Coffee Company
A Coffee Café and more. Daily soup specials. Food specials on Saturdays. Wine and a great selection of local, micro, and specialty beers! Serving a light breakfast, lunch, and dinner. 5512 Crestwood Blvd., Birmingham, AL 35212 205-595-0300 www.crestwoodcafe.com/
East 59 Vintage and Café
A family business that caters to the the East Lake neighborhood of Birmingham. Locals can enjoy a cup of coffee, savor healthier breakfast and lunch options, peruse vintage furnishings, attend classes, and host small events.In 2016, they expanded to a second location at the Hoover Public Library. 7619 1st Ave N., Birmingham, AL 35206 205-838-0559 www.east59.net/
Lucy’s Coffee and Tea
When you come into Lucy’s you’ll experience great art (courtesy of Naked Art Gallery), eclectic furniture and smiling employees. Chances are Lucy herself will fix your coffee. So come on in, pull up a chair and enjoy a great cup of coffee and conversation. 2007 University Blvd., Birmingham, AL 35233 205-328-2007 Lucyscoffeeandtea.com
Octane Coffee
Octane roasts its beans right next to the cafe in Homewood, creating a community where friends and neighbors experience a delicious drink and fun time when they visit. Two locations: Uptown and Homewood.2221 Richard Arrington Jr. Blvd N, Birmingham, AL 35203 205-545-5076 28 B-METRO.COM Photo by Jaysen Michael
Octane Coffee and Roast 2821 Central Ave, Homewood, AL 35209 www.octanecoffee.com/
O’Henry’s Coffees
More than just coffee, O’Henry’s has been a community gathering place since 1993. Relaxed local coffeehouse chain serving espresso drinks, teas, breakfast, sandwiches and desserts. Four locations in Birmingham area: Downtown Homewood 2831 18th St. S, Homewood Al 35209; Brookwood Village Mall; Highland Park 2915 Highland Ave, Birmingham Al 35205; Regions Harbert Plaza building downtown. Mezzanine Level 1901 6th Ave. N, Birmingham AL 35203 ohenryscoffees.com/
The Red Cat
With two locations, the first at Pepper Place, and the newest offering across the street from Railroad Park, the Red Cat is part of the vibe that is our city. The Red Cat opened in 2008 with a welcoming vibe, great food and occasional music. 1701 1st. Ave S #101, Birmingham, AL 35233 205-518-0779 theredcatcoffeehouse.com/
Revelator Coffee
Designed to cultivate meaningful experiences, Revelator offers a bright and open space, with stay-awhile appeal. No frills or fuss to the brews at Revelator. The offerings are simple and seasonal. 1826 3rd Ave N #101, Birmingham, AL 35203 205-224-5900 revelatorcoffee.com/
Satellite
Coffee and cocktails in the heart of Avondale and attached to one of the city’s best music venues, Saturn. The coffee shop opens at 7 a.m. with great baked goods. There are plenty of board games as well as vintage video games. 200 41st Street South, Birmingham AL 35222 205-703-9545 www.saturnbirmingham.com/satellite/ coffee/
Seeds Coffee Co.
Seeds Coffee Company began when a group of friends started roasting coffee in their kitchen. What originally started out as a hobby quickly developed into a passion for coffee, always seeking out “a better cup.” 174 Oxmoor Road, Birmingham, AL 35209 seedscoffee.com/
Starbucks
Seattle-based coffee chain well known for its signature roasts, light food fair, relaxed atmosphere and free Wi-fi. Many locations around Birmingham. Visit their website and use the Store Locator to find a location near you. www.starbucks.com/
Urban Standard
Urban Standard offers simple hospitality in an inviting atmosphere. Daily fueling our community with coffee and food, staples that make a city a home. 2320 2nd Ave. N., Birmingham, AL 35203 205-250-8200 www.urbanstandard.com/
Woodlawn Cycle Café
Started out as a coffee bar, has morphed into a must experience boutique eatery located in Woodlawn. 5530 1st Ave S., Birmingham, AL 35212 205-867-5309 woodlawncyclecafe.com
ROASTERS
Domestique Coffee Roaster
Coffee company dedicated to high quality, fair-trade coffee. Coffee sourced from well known producers as well as the hidden gems of the world. Green coffee from around the world precisely roasted utilizing our fluid-bed roaster to highlight flavor notes unique to each region. Retail and wholesale offerings of both whole-bean and ready to drink products. 3017 6th Ave. S., Birmingham, AL 35223 205-602-1889 www.domestiquecoffee.com/2015/
Higher Ground Coffee
Higher Ground roasts only specialty grade coffee beans –the top five percent of the world’s harvest. They roast and ship to order for taste and freshness. 4248 Cahaba Heights Ct., Vestavia Hills, AL 35243 (205) 699-0600 www.highergroundroasters.com/
Red Bike Coffee LLC
Located in Irondale, Red Bike Coffee beans are small-batch roasted to maintain roast control and consistency. This also ensures that you receive the freshest coffee possible. 2443 1st Ave S., Irondale, AL 35210 888-200-3025 www.redbikecoffee.com/
Red Diamond Coffee and Tea
Family-owned since 1906, Red Diamond is a company committed to continuously improving sustainability efforts. A company with a vision for a sustainable future, they rely on 100 percent recyclable packaging and materials. Red Diamond is one of the three oldest coffee and teas companies in the U.S. 400 Park Ave, Moody, AL 35004 (205) 577-4000 www.reddiamond.com
Royal Cup Coffee and Tea
Royal Cup is a major importer and roaster of specialty coffees and fine teas. The company is more than a century old. Royal Cup’s reach extends throughout the U.S., Mexico and the Caribbean, serving customers in the food service, hospitality, office and specialty coffee markets. 160 Cleage Dr, Birmingham, AL 35217 (205) 849-5836 www.royalcupcoffee.com
Higher Ground roasts exclusively 100% Certified Organic, Fair Trade, and Shade Grown Coffees.
THE RED CAT
Opened by Kirk Summers and Erin Isbell in 2008 with the original location at Pepper Place in the Lakeview District, The Red Cat Coffeehouse struck an immediate chord with high-quality coffees, espresso, and a varied menu made from fresh, healthy ingredients—no corners cut. Even the ambient lighting is designed with care, creating an atmosphere so inviting it’s become a daily stop for many people who live in the area and a frequent destination for those happy to make the trip. And now its loyal customers have a second location to enjoy in The Red Cat at Railroad Park. Along with coffee and a full menu, patrons can also enjoy fine beers, wines and even live music, when the Red Cat turns into an intimate, after-hours venue for acoustic singer/songwriters.
B-METRO.COM 29
FESTIVALS
Barber Vintage Motorcycle Festival
SLOSSFEST
While promoting two, sold-out shows for the Alabama Shakes at Sloss Furnaces in 2014, Red Mountain Entertainment seized on a vision for a world-class music and lifestyle event held on the historic site. Within a year, the inaugural Sloss Music & Arts Festival (“Sloss Fest” to the locals) kicked off with more than 30 acts performing over two days in July of 2015. Inaugural performers included Cage the Elephant, Modest Mouse and St. Paul & the Broken Bones. But for as many who come for the music—and they come in droves— Sloss Fest also has a strong arts element, truly organic to its setting. Organizers have embraced the chance to shine a spotlight on the Sloss Metal Arts Program, with live ironpouring demonstrations all weekend. This year there will also be new art vendors offering up everything from clothing to paintings and…why not?...hair braiding. The third Sloss Fest returns July 15 and 16 with 40 bands on four stages. Look for Widespread Panic, the Alabama Shakes, Odesza, Sturgill Simpson, Run the Jewels, Wray, Waka Flocka Flame, and a whole lot more. Check out www.slossfest.com for details.
The Annual Barber Vintage Festival (October) is one of the most highly anticipated motorcycle events in the world. The three-day festival features food and entertainment, a swap meet with hundreds of vendors selling vintage motorcycles and parts, as well as the AMCA and VJMC gatherings, and the Motorcycle Classics show. www.barbermuseum.org/events/barber-vintage-festival
Birmingham ArtWalk
Artwalk is an arts festival that transforms Birmingham’s loft neighborhood into an arts district, featuring the work of more than 100 visual artists, live musicians, street performers, food and drink vendors, and children’s activities. People of all ages can enjoy being downtown at a safe, family-friendly, community event. Friday night has been compared to a huge gallery opening with a street festival atmosphere, while Saturday afternoon caters more to the family crowd with special children’s activities. www.birminghamartwalk.org
Birmingham Restaurant Week
Experience Birmingham’s rich culinary culture during Winter and Birmingham Restaurant Week! Taking place twice a year January 20th - 29th and August 11th - 20th 2017, Restaurant Week is a 10-day culinary affair where locally owned and operated restaurants offer incentives for patrons to revisit their favorite restaurants or to experience new ones. www.bhamrestaurantweek.com
Bob Sykes BBQ and Blues Festival
BBQ and Blues what could possibly be better, held in Historic Downtown Bessemer in May. www.bobsykesblues.com
Breakin’ Bread: The Local Flavor Festival
The city’s premier food festival that is designed to showcase the culinary talents of Birmingham’s best chefs at independent restaurants throughout the area. Event is held September 24 at Sloss Furnace www.birminghamoriginals.org
30 B-METRO.COM Photos provided by Red Mountain Entertainment
You’ve built your business by serving your clients’ best interests. So have we. Our commercial clients know the value of doing business with BB&T. Our consultative approach allows us to understand your business and provide insights to drive the performance of your business forward. For more than 140 years, we’ve built relationships by creating long-lasting partnerships that extend beyond deals and transactions. Experience the difference when one of the strongest and most respected banks in the nation is also a part of your community.
BANKING
INSURANCE
Josh Petty Birmingham Market President (205) 445-2464
INVESTMENTS
Member FDIC. Only deposit products are FDIC insured. BBT.com ©2016, Branch Banking and Trust Company. All rights reserved.
Dia de los Muertos (Day of the Dead)
In the Mexican tradition, this festival commemorates the deaths of loved ones through music, dance and shrines. First of November at Cahaba Brewing Company. www.barehandsinc.org
Do Dah Day Festival
Rhodes and Caldwell Parks along Highland Avenue is the site for this dog friendly festival marked by a parade complete with floats. Dress up your doggie and head on down. Benefitting animal rescue services. www.dodahday.org
Fiesta
Alabama’s largest celebration of Hispanic culture is a colorful event in downtown Linn Park. Learn about the many Hispanic countries and their cultures through art, music food and dance. fiestabirmingham.com
Greek Festival
The Holy Trinity-Holy Cross Greek Orthodox Cathedral Greek Food Festival is the focal point for thousands from Alabama, Florida, Mississippi, and Georgia who for three days experience the Greeks’ legendary zest for life. At the festival you can find authentic Greek cuisine, Mediterranean and Orthodox Christian souvenirs in the gift shop, and Greek dancing. Sept. 21-23. www.birminghamgreekfestival.net
Gumbo Gala
Sloss Furnace, is the location for this spicy event/ cooking competition. Proceeds benefit Episcopal Place, which provides independent living for seniors and special needs adults. . gumbogala.swellgives.com
Magic City Brewfest
This will be the 11th year anniversary of Magic City Brewfest presented by Free the Hops! Magic City Brewfest is a weekend dedicated to learning about craft beer and sampling the best that Alabama has to offer. There will be 150+ individual beers available including many rare, specialty and cask ales which have never been seen before in Alabama. The festival is held at Avondale Park, July 29, 4 to 8 p.m. www.magiccitybrewfest.com
Magic City Art Connection
Magic City Art Connection is an annual contemporary art festival held in April in Linn Park downtown. Visitors enjoy art from more than 200 juried artists from around the country, more than 40 interactive art 32 B-METRO.COM
workshops and activities for kids, mouthwatering food creations from renowned chefs of Birmingham’s finest restaurants, 100 wines and many craft beers from around the world to sample. www.magiccityart.com
Moss Rock Festival
On the first full weekend in November, The Preserve in Hoover, Alabama becomes home to art, design & environmental lovers everywhere as the 11th annual Moss Rock Festival kicks off. This oneof-a-kind outdoor fall festival welcomes 12,000 visitors annually to explore nature, art+design, and smart living themes. www.mossrockfestival.com
National Veterans Day Parade
Our city hosts the oldest and largest Veterans Day parade in the US held on Veterans Day each November. nationalveteransday.org
Secret Stages
Secret Stages hosts a weekend filled with up and coming new music from local and regional bands, a music discovery festival. Takes place in multiple locations around Second Avenue North. www.secretstages.net
Sidewalk Film Festival
A celebration of new and independent cinema in downtown Birmingham, SideWalk has delighted film buffs since 1999. Moves are screened in 11 venues downtown, in the historic theater district which is anchored by the historic Alabama Theater with the newly restored Lyric right across the street. With a low price weekend pass attendees can sample many different independent films that they might not otherwise be able to see. August 25 – 27, 2017.
sidewalkfest.com
Slicefest
Birmingham’s largest food and music block party is hosted by Slice Pizza & Brewhouse. Slice Pizza & Brewhouse hosts the event to celebrate the restaurant’s anniversary and thank the Birmingham community for their continuous support. Over the past 5 years the event has grown to a full-blown festival bringing in local and regional music talent paired with local craft beer and specialty pizzas. slicefest.com
Sloss Music & Arts Festival
Sloss Music & Arts Festival is a two-day music and lifestyle event that takes place at Sloss Furnaces National Historic Landmark on Saturday, July 15th and Sunday, July 16th, 2017. Sloss Fest is 40 bands on four stages plus craft beer and creative cocktails, arts and crafts, live iron pouring demonstrations and much more, The festival is a celebration of the city’s creative culture. This year’s lineup includes Alabama Shakes, Widespread Panic, Odesza, Sturgill Simpson, Run the Jewels, Nathaniel Rateliff & The Night Sweats, Spoon, NeedToBreathe, Phantogram, Tycho, Judah & The Lion, Conor Oberst, and Cherub. Slossfest.com
Southern Voices Festival
A celebration of writing, music and art attracts a full house each year to see and hear the works of noted Southern writers and artists. Hoover Library. www.hooverlibrary.org/sv
Steel City Jazz Festival
The Steel City Jazz Festival, held In June, is an annual music festival In an outdoor party atmosphere overflowing with non-stop music, entertainment, food and beverages. steelcityjazzfestbham.com/
EILEEN AND ALEX KUNZMAN Magic City Art Connection
Eileen Kunzman started the Magic City Art Connection downtown 34 years ago and took the local art-festival concept to a whole new level. Every April, Birmingham’s largest festival transforms Linn Park for a weekend with works from 200 local and national artists, live performances, food and beverage tastings and more. Now joined in her endeavors by her son, Alex Kunzman, Eileen is president of the Foundation for Arts and Cultural Connections, Inc. and Eileen Kunzman Fine Arts Services, she also produces the Moss Rock Festival—an eco-creative festival in Hoover—and several others. “Festivals bring a depth of insight, a special view of the world, an emotional intelligence, enthusiasm for new and familiar things, and a celebration for life,” Eileen says. “Plus, they’re great fun.” Photoby Beth Hontzas
FOOD MAC RUSSELL Owner of Shindigs Catering
There was a time “food truck” used to always mean one of two things: ice cream or tacos. But those aren’t the only game in town anymore. Not long ago, Mac Russell started Shindigs Catering with a passion for healthy, sustainable foods. And the face of his catering business, which serves up everything from gourmet burgers (including the vegan variety) to Korean steamed buns and other dishes depending on the event and season, is none other than a food truck affectionately nicknamed “Ms. Piggy.” “Food trucks are so popular now,” Russell says, “that is now common for brick-and-mortar restaurants to add them to their repertoire, especially for their catering services.” Even as Shindigs is working toward opening its first standalone restaurant, Whistling Table in Forest Park, Russell hopes to expand the catering business to add food trucks in other cities near event spaces, urban gathering spots or anywhere the idea a of drive-up restaurant makes perfect sense.
RESTAURANTS Al’s Deli and Grill
Mediterranean-inspired food. 1629 10th Ave. South, Birmingham 205-939-4278 www.alsdeliandgrill.net
Avo and Dram
Californian-style cuisine and a whiskey bar. 2721 Cahaba Rd, Mountain Brook (205) 871-8212 avorestaurant.com
Bamboo on 2nd
Asian fusion and sushi. 2212 Second Ave. North, Birmingham (205) 703-0551 www.bambooon2nd.com
Bettola
Creative Italian. 2901 Second Ave. South, Suite 150, Birmingham 205-731-6499 www.facebook.com/BettolaBirmingham
Bistro 218
French-inspired bistro dining downtown. 218 20th St N, Birmingham (205) 983-7999 bistro218.com
Bogue’s Restaurant
Breakfast and meat and three 3028 Clairmont Ave. South, Birmingham 205-254-9780 www.boguesdiner.com
Latin street food 2901 Second Ave. South, Suite 110, Birmingham 205-323-6980 www.cantinabirmingham.com
Cashio’s Meatball Market Comfort food in Lakeview. 728 29th St S, Birmingham (205) 578-6090 cashiosmeatballmarket.com
Chez Fonfon
Frank Stitt’s French bistro. 2007 11th Ave. South, Birmingham 205-939-3221 www.fonfonbham.com
Chez Lulu
Charm in English Village. 1911 Cahaba Road, Mountain Brook 205-870-5584 www.chezlulu.us
Dreamland Bar-B-Que
“Ain’t nothing like ’em nowhere.” 1427 14th Ave. South, Birmingham 205-933-2133 www.dreamlandbbq.com
Eagle’s Restaurant
Soul food in North Birmingham. 2610 16th St. North, Birmingham 205-320-0099 www.eaglesrestaurant.com
El Barrio Restaurante Y Bar
Brick & Tin
Fancy’s on Fifth
Great downtown lunch. 214 20th St. South, Birmingham; 2901 Cahaba Road, Mountain Brook 205-297-8636; 205-502-7971. www.brickandtin.com
The Bright Star
Traditional American and Greek specialties 304 19th St. North, Bessemer 205-426-1861 www.thebrightstar.com
Café Dupont
Fine dining downtown. 113 20th St. North, Birmingham 205-322-1282 www.cafedupont.net
Cantina Laredo
Modern Mexican, upscale. 2301 Richard Arrington Jr Blvd N, Birmingham
Photo by Andi Rice
Cantina Tortilla Grill
Bottega
Frank Stitt’s classic Italian. 2240 Highland Ave. South, Birmingham 205-939-1000 www.bottegarestaurant.com
34 B-METRO.COM
(205) 502-0915 www.cantinalaredo.com
Creative, Mexican-inspired food. 2211 Second Ave. North, Birmingham 205-868-3737 Elbarriobirmingham.com A relaxed burger and oyster joint . 430 41st St S, Birmingham (205) 777-3662 www.fancyson5th.com
The Fish Market
Greek-inspired seafood. 612 22nd St. South, Birmingham 205-322-3330 www.thefishmarket.net
Full Moon Bar-B-Que
Great barbecue. Eight locations in metro Birmingham. fullmoonbbq.com
Galley and Garden
Fine dining in an elegant, historic home. 2220 Highland Ave, Birmingham (205) 939-5551 galleyandgarden.com
GianMarco’s
Great neighborhood Italian
PERRY’S ANNIVERSARY MENU
4 COURSES, 4 CHOICES FOR $44 There are tons of reasons to celebrate our modest butcher shop beginnings as we near four decades of Rare and Well Done® dining. We’ll give you four. During the month of July, enjoy four choices for each of our four courses for only $44.
S E L EC T O NE O F E AC H Pe rs o n a l Size A p p et izer | Fr i ed As parag u s | B e e f & B l e u | Po rk C h o p B i tes | S te ak Tartare Sa la d | Ca es ar | B u tc h e r ’s C h o p | Kal e | We dg e En t rée | 6- oz. F i l e t | S al m o n | Po rk C h o p | Chicken & Roasted Carrots D esser t | C rème B r û l é e | D es s e rt Tri o | Can dy B ar | N u t t y d’A n g e l o
VA L ID D U RIN G J U LY 2 0 1 7
BIRMINGHAM • 4 Perimeter Park South • 205-968-1597 • PerrysSteakhouse.com
721 Broadway St., Homewood 205-871-9622 facebook/GIANMARCOS
Gus’s Hot Dogs
Classic Birmingham hot dog stand. 1915 Fourth Ave. North, Birmingham 205-251-4540
Highlands Bar & Grill
Regularly feted as one of the best restaurants in the U.S. 2011 Eleventh Ave. South, Birmingham 205-939-1400 highlandsbarandgrill.com
Hot and Hot Fish Club
Sophisticated Southern dining. 2180 11th Court South, Birmingham 205-933-5474 hotandhotfishclub.com
La Paz
Casual Mexican. 99 Euclid Ave, Mountain Brook (205) 879-2225 eatatlapaz.com
LIttle Savannah
Farm-to-table bistro. 3811 Clairmont Ave, Birmingham (205) 591-1119 www.littlesavannah.com
CHRIS DUPONT Café Dupont
Call it farm-to-table dining, slow food, or the “localvore” movement, but eating foods supplied by our own, Alabama farmers has become a popular cause for foodies, environmentalists and restaurateurs alike. And Chris Dupont was among the earliest to embrace it—not so much as a grand vision, he says, as pure necessity. Dupont opened the original Café Dupont in Springville, about 40 miles north of Birmingham, in 1993, and learned the big food purveyors refused to make stops in a little town they’d barely heard of. “So I became friends with the locals,” he says. Dupont discovered a nearby orchard and a man selling catfish fresh from a pond on his property. Then he met the folks from the garden club and threw himself at their mercy. “The next day people brought me okra, eggplant, peas, beans, asparagus and all the tomatoes I needed,” he remembers. “That’s how I got started.” Years ago his venue changed from Springville to downtown Birmingham; he enjoys a reputation among the upper echelons of Birmingham chefs; and he could buy his food from anyone he wants. But he remains loyal to local farmers and still creates menus around their weekly harvest. “It gives the farmer that extra motivation to know they make a difference and be able to say, ‘A restaurant like Café Dupont really cares—I must be doing something right.’ “We like to say, ‘If you want to support local farmers, come out to eat at Café Dupont, because at any time we’ll have 15 to 20 farmers represented on our menu.’ It’s all right here.” Photo by Beau Gustafson
MELT
35243 (205) 968-1597 perryssteakhouse.com
Mr. P’s Deli
Family-run Vietnamese restaurant. 430 Green Springs Highway, Homewood 205-942-5400
Niki’s West
New food hall with a host of culinary choices.1821 2nd Ave N, Birmingham (205) 939-3111 thepizitz.com/food-hall
Ocean
Wood-fired and wonderful. 209 41st St. South, Birmingham 205-599-9900 postofficepies.com
Comfortable and creative grilled cheese. 4105 4th Ave S, Birmingham (205) 917-5000 www.meltbham.com Butcher shop, grocery and great sandwiches.813 Shades Crest Road, Hoover 205-823-6136 www.mrpdeli.com An original, classic meat and three. 233 Finley Ave. West, Birmingham 205-252-5751 www.nikiswest.com A top seafood restaurant. 1218 20th St. South, Birmingham 205-933-0999 oceanbirmingham.com
OvenBird
A live-fire restaurant from Chris Hastings. 2810 Third Ave. South, Birmingham 205-957-6686 ovenbirdrestaurant.com
Paramount
Creative pub grub with video and arcade games.200 20th St N, Birmingham (205) 320-2824 paramountbirmingham.com
Perry’s Steak House
Steaks, chops, seafood, wine and cocktails. 4 Perimeter Park S, Birmingham, AL 36 B-METRO.COM
Pho Que Huong
Pizitz Food Hall
Post Office Pies
Red Pearl Restaurant
Authentic Chinese at an Oriental market. 243 West Valley Ave., Homewood 205-945-9558 superorientalmkt.com
Rojo
Lively patio and Mexican/American food. 2921 Highland Ave., Birmingham 205-328-4733 www.rojobirmingham.com
Ruth’s Chris
Classic home of sizzling steaks. 2300 Woodcrest Pl, Birmingham, AL 35209 (205) 879-9995 www.ruthschris.net
Satterfield’s
Casual yet fine dining. 3161 Cahaba Heights Road, Vestavia Hills 205-969-9690 satterfieldsrestaurant.com
Saw’s BBQ
The original Saw’s in Homewood. 1008 Oxmoor Road, Homewood 205-879-1937 www.sawsbbq.com
Saw’s Soul Kitchen
Traditional Southern soul in Avondale.215 41st St So. Birmingham, AL 35222 (205) 591-1409 www.sawsbbq.com
Seasons 52
Seasonal American dishes at The Summit. 245 Summit Blvd, Birmingham (205) 968-5152 www.seasons52.com
Silvertron Cafe
Neighborhood favorite in Forest Park. 3813 Clairmont Ave, Birmingham (205) 591-3707 silvertroncafe.us
Skycastle
American classics and sports on TV. 2808 7th Ave S, Birmingham (205) 578-6080 skycastlebham.com
Slice
Pizza and beer. 725 29th St. South, Birmingham 205-715-9300
Slicebirmingham.com
Ted’s Restaurant
A classic steam table. 328 12th St. South, Birmingham 205-324-2911 tedsbirmingham.com
Texas de Brazil
Upscale Brazilian at Uptown. 2301 Richard Arrington Jr Blvd N, Birmingham (205) 588-8333 texasdebrazil.com
Todd English P.U.B.
Modern English pub fare at Uptown. 2221 Richard Arrington Jr Blvd N, Birmingham (205) 307-3700 toddenglishpub.com
Trattoria Centrale
Italian specialties and a great Sunday brunch.207-A 20th St. North, Birmingham 205-202-5612 trattoriacentrale.com
Roots and Revelry
Fine dining in restored Thomas Jefferson. 1623 2nd Ave N Suite B, Birmingham (205) 730-1907 www.roots-revelry.com
Vino
Upscale American and Mediterranean fare. 1930 Cahaba Rd, Mountain Brook (205) 870-8404 vinobirmingham.com
Savor Modern Mexican cuiSine
B-METRO’S
BEST EAT of the city
BEST
of the city
SHOP
Uptown Birmingham
2301 richard arrington Jr. Blvd 205.502.0915 cantinalaredo.com
B-METRO’S
B-METRO’S
BEST PLAY
BEST
of the city
of the city
EXPLORE
B-METRO’S
B-METRO’S
Sip the finest margarita on our rooftop deck Savor fresh seafood, enchiladas and more with sauces from scratch Join us for drinks, dinner, lunch or Sunday brunch
B-METRO’S
BEST of the city
BEST
of the city
w h a t ARTS ’s g o o d HOME
n o w
Nothing compares to the flavors of summer. Summer’s vegetables are bright and beautiful to behold, but even more delightful to eat. We’re featuring a bounty of this season’s harvest on our menu like sweet summer corn, heirloom tomatoes, figs and Italian Black Truffles. Join us to enjoy them, but for only as long as the season lasts. 245 SUMMIT BLVD n 205.968.5152 SEASONS52.COM
B-METRO.COM 37
MUSIC ALYS STEPHENS CENTER
The Alys Robinson Stephens Performing Arts Center is a performing arts facility located on the campus of UAB. It hosts over 250,000 people for more than 300 diverse events annually. The Alys opened in 1996 as a place where the entire community embraces life through the arts. The premier center for arts and education in the area, Alys Stephens touches lives through its wide-ranging program of live events and art engagement programs. In addition to its own arts season, Alys Stephens also regularly hosts the Alabama Symphony Orchestra. In outreach to the community, AIM, the Center’s partnership with UAB Medicine, brings artists-in-residence into hospital units to work with patients, family members and caregivers. ArtPlay encompasses all of the Center’s community education initiatives, among the young and old.
Alabama Symphony
The Alabama Symphony Orchestra has entertained audiences for decades, playing a variety of classical and popular music and hosting performances by some of the finest guest artists in the world. The 54 talented musicians of the ASO bring to life some of the world’s most treasured musical masterpieces and introduce listeners to exciting new works and composers, performing concerts for more than 100,000 persons annually. 3621 6th Ave S., Birmingham, AL 35222 205-975-2787 www.alabamasymphony.org
Alys Stephens Performing Arts Center
As the University of Alabama at Birmingham’s performing arts center, Alys Stephens serves as a bridge to the arts for the community. The Alys Stephens Center quickly became the center for entertainment and arts education in Birmingham and central Alabama with more than 100,000 visitors annually. 1200 10th Ave S., Birmingham, AL 35294 205-975-2787 www.alysstephens.org
Iron City Birmingham
Iron City Birmingham is a 22,000 sq foot full service grill, bar, event and entertainment venue in the heart of downtown Birmingham. The Grill at Iron City uses quality organic ingredients, produce from local farmers, Alabama Gulf Seafood and strives to produce a white tablecloth experience in a casual atmosphere. 513 22nd St. S., Birmingham, AL 35233 205-202-5483 www.ironcitybham.com
Moonlight on the Mountain
Listening is what makes The Moonlight different from other live music venues. Here, the performing artist is the most important person in the room, while they are on stage. They cater to an audience who comes to pay respectful attention to the talent being presented. 585 Shades Crest Rd., Birmingham, AL 35226 205-317-4364 www.musiconthemtn.com
The Nick
The Nick serves live music and cold drinks. A staple in Birmingham’s music scene for over 30 years. The music heard almost every night of the week include local, regional and national acts. The diverse range of acts add to the appeal of an evening at the Nick. One can hear blues, rock, punk, emo, hiphop, rap, pop, country, metal, bluegrass, rock-a-billy, roots rock or whatever your genre of choice. 2514 10Th Ave S., Birmingham, AL 35206 205-252-3831 www.thenickrocks.com
Oak Mountain Amphitheatre
Alabama’s largest outdoor concert venue. Featuring top A list performers from all over the country. Music of all genres. 1000 Amphitheatre Dr., Birmingham, AL 35214 38 B-METRO.COM
800-745-3000 www.livenation.com/venues/14486/ oak-mountain-amphitheatre
Oasis
It’s all about the music. For 20+ years, The Oasis Roadhouse Bar, has been one of Birmingham’s favorite hot spots. Opening daily at 3 p.m. for happy hour, this down home atmosphere keeps out-of-towners and locals always coming back. The Oasis has been the “start” to fame for some great artists. Platinum recording artist Taylor Hicks, still calls The Oasis “home”. Live music every Monday through Saturday nights. 2807 7th Ave S., Birmingham, AL 35233 205-323-5538 oasisbar.com
Pale Eddie’s Pour House
Pale Eddie’s is a tastefully-appointed, smoke-free neighborhood gathering spot with free-flowing ales and lagers. They offer a rotating selection of craft and high-gravity beers in addition to a unique selection of wine and liquors. They also regularly host live music acts with an emphasis on acoustic and singer/songwriter performances and have a separate area available for hosting private functions, receptions and other gatherings. 2308 2nd Ave N., Birmingham, AL 35203 205-297-0052 www.paleeddiespourhouse.com
Rogue Tavern
When the sun sets, the music starts. Their stage showcases nationally acclaimed touring artists as well as local up-and-comers. Eat, drink, and enjoy the show at Rogue Tavern 2312 2ndAve N., Birmingham, AL 35203 205-202-4151 www.roguetavern.com
Saturn
Saturn (music venue) is a facility located in Avondale just east of downtown Birmingham. It is owned by Alabama native and musician Brian Teasley along with the world famous Bowery Presents. The venue caters to both national and local acts and strives to be an important part of the community as well as an outlet for arts and entertainment within the greater Birmingham area. 200 41st St S., Birmingham, AL 35222 205-703-954 www.saturnbirmingham.com
Tin Roof
Tin Roof is about giving musicians a place to play and a place to hang when they aren’t on stage. The tasty food, fun, eclectic environment have helped establish the Roof as the place to be for musicians and non-musicians alike. Over the years, their stages have hosted the famous, the should have been famous, and everyone in between. Tin Roof is located in Birmingham’s eclectic Lakeview neighborhood. Open daily for lunch, dinner and late night. 2709 7th Ave S., Birmingham, AL 35233
BRIAN TEASLEY Saturn
Brian Teasley, longtime drummer for Man or Astroman? (as well as the band St. Vincent), was one of the founders of the Bottletree Café—a music venue in Avondale that served as a successful launching pad for new acts from 2006 to 2015. After Bottletree closed, Teasley was done with that side of the business, or so he thought. Then “the space at Saturn just called to me,” he says. “I know that seems silly, but it’s true. I live half a block down from the venue and when the space came open…I started imaging all the design elements and accoutrements that could possibly make it a great venue.” Among other things, this involved turning the building itself into a “multi-sensory reactive sound medium.” Devices installed throughout the venue—stimulated by spontaneously occurring sound, light, motion, weather, water flow, and street activity—trigger random ambient sounds and what Teague calls the effect “a sort of symphony of sonic activity.” So yes—bands play here, all sorts of them; but sometimes the Saturn is its own concert. A multi-faceted venue, Saturn is also a coffee shop by day. Some weekends, they serve a Sunday Brunch Adventure Party. There are also bingo nights, board-game nights…a crazy combination of activity that serves the patrons—and the owner—well. “I mainly just wanted a constant cycle of energy with people being in the space from the morning until the end of the night,” explains the Teasley. “There’s a motion and fluidity to it that appeals to me for some reason. I live vicariously through other people and I have a great fear of boredom. If other people aren’t happy, then I’m certainly not happy, so we just try to make it as fun and accommodating as we possibly can. “We want to showcase art and music that we love and stand up for things we believe in, and hopefully some people will enjoy what we are trying to present to the world.” 40 B-METRO.COM
205-323-4356 tinroofbirmingham.com
WorkPlay
WorkPlay is a truly innovative entertainment complex. Its roots in live music and studio production give it mystique. While a creative complex, it is also a live music venue with regional and national acts, as well as an event space. 500 23rd St. S., Birmingham, AL 35233 205-380-4082 www.workplay.com
Zydeco
Since 1989, Zydeco has been playing music in Birmingham’s historic Five Points South business district. As Birmingham’s second oldest bar and music venue, Zydeco proudly provides great live music, food and spirits, and atmosphere. Zydeco is a three-level venue that is unique to Birmingham for its ability to host multiple audiences with a variety of entertainment interests – all at the same tim 2001 15th Ave S., Birmingham, AL 35206 205-933-1032 zydecobirmingham.com
Stock & Trade Design Co. 3048 Independence Drive Birmingham, Alabama 35209 205.783.1350
Stock & Trade Design Co. 11111 Emerald Coast Pkwy Destin, Florida 32550 850.460.8990
Stockandtrade.com
OUTDOORS
RUFFNER MOUNTAIN NATURE PRESERVE
Carlee Sanford, executive director of Ruffner Mountain—a 1,038-acre, privately held, 502 (c)(3) urban nature preserve in Birmingham’s East Lake neighborhood—loves so many things about the place she works. But the most succinct way of putting it is this: “It is about slowing down.” Visitors come to enjoy the breathtaking scenery, learn about native plants and wildlife, hike the trails, or even take part in outdoor yoga classes on Monday nights. There are educational programs for kids in first grade through college, and on-site facilities include a LEED-certified Nature Center with mountain views. Ruffner does not receive any state or federal funding, and there is no charge to enter the preserve or attend weekend programming. It exists because individuals visiting the preserve give through membership and donations, and because of support from the City of Birmingham. Sanford is excited about new and future projects including working with Freshwater Land Trust to see the Red Rock Trail system come to fruition, including a section that will eventually connect Ruffner to the Rotary Trail and Railroad Park, then Vulcan Park and Red Mountain Park. “On top of all that (and other initiatives),” she says, “we are excited about creating an inclusive space for diverse segments of our community to get outside and interact with both one another and the native ecology we treasure.”
PARKS
Moss Rock Preserve
Hoover’s Moss Rock Preserve is a perfect balance of nature and community. This beautiful 250 acre nature preserve is abundant with trees and plants, rock outcroppings, streams, waterfalls, wildlife and other unique natural features. Currently Moss Rock Preserve is home to four rare species of plants and a rare variant of Little River Canyon Sandstone Glade – one of only 35 occurrences known around the world. Moss Rock Preserve’s Boulder Field is a favorite among rock climbers. 617 Preserve Way, Hoover, AL 35226 205-739-7141 hooverpreserve.com
Oak Mountain State Park
Oak Mountain State Park is a publicly owned recreation area located approximately 20 miles (32 km) south of Birmingham in Pelham. It is the state’s largest state park at 9,940 acres (4,020 ha) and is home to the Alabama Wildlife Center, Oak Mountain Interpretive Center, and Oak Mountain BMX Track. Park activities include hiking, swimming, camping, fishing, horseback riding, and golf. Mountain biking and hiking are two of the most popular activities at the park. With more than 50 miles of trails visitors have plenty of options to choose from be it a short loop or an overnight trip. The Red Trail has even been included on the International Mountain Biking Association’s(IMBA) list of EPIC rides. 200 Terrace Dr., Pelham, AL 35124 alapark.com/ oak-mountain-state-park
Railroad Park
A 19 acre green space in downtown Birmingham that celebrates the industrial and artistic heritage of our great city. Situated along 1st Avenue South, between 14th and 18th Streets, the park is a joint effort between the City of Birmingham and the Railroad Park Foundation. Hailed as “Birmingham’s Living Room,” Railroad Park provides a historically rich venue for local recreation, family activities, concerts, and cultural events, while connecting Birmingham’s downtown area with Southside and UAB’s campus. 1600 1st Ave. S., Birmingham Al 35233 railroadpark.org/index.php
Red Mountain Park
Designed to advance the understanding of ecology in a rapidly changing Red Mountain Park offers 1,500 wooded acres located in Birmingham, three miles west of I-65 (Lakeshore Parkway Exit #255). Visitors enjoy over 15 miles of walking, hiking and mountain biking trails, Remy’s Dog Park and four unique outdoor adventures: the Vulcan Materials Zip Trip, the Hugh Kaul Beanstalk Forest, the 80-foot Kaul Adventure Tower with a 1,000 foot Mega Zip and Schaeffer Eye Center Segway Tours. Beautiful destinations – the historic ‘Hoist House,’ pedestrian Treehouses (Haskell Hideaway, Riley’s Roost, & Rushing Rendezvous) and iron ore mine entrances – both surprise and delight park guests. Universally accessible parking, restrooms and other needed amenities are in development. Support these projects by visiting redmountainpark.org and making a tax-deductible contribution. 2011 Frankfurt Dr., Birmingham, AL 35211 redmountainpark.org 42 B-METRO.COM
Photos courtesy of Ruffner Mountain Nature Preserve
SPECIAL PROMOTION
Left to right: Megan Elder, Jessie Keating Hardy, Jessica Kirk Drennan, J. Derek Drennan
FAMILY LAW GROUP •Divorce •Custody •Pre · Post nuptial agreements •Paternity •Appeals
PROBATE GROUP •Wills •Estates •Trusts •Adoptions •Guardianships
Kirk Drennan Law (205) 803-3500
kdpc@kirkdrennanlaw.com kirkdrennanlaw.com
CRIMINAL LAW GROUP •White Collar Crimes •Death Penalty Offenses •Felonies •Misdemeanors •Appeals
No representation is made that the quality of legal services to be performed is greater than the quality of legal services performed by other lawyers.
The Rotary Trail Birmingham
This multi-million dollar gift to Birmingham and its citizens on behalf of Rotary transformed a vacant railroad right-of-way, or “cut,” into a pleasantlylandscaped, four-block walking/running/ biking pathway. Initially, the trail is intended to connect two of Birmingham’s superior amenities – Railroad Park and the Sloss Furnaces Historic landmark. 2098 1st Ave S., Birmingham, Al 352333
Ruffner Mountain Nature Preserve
Designed to advance the understanding of ecology in a rapidly changing world with over 1000 acres, the park seeks to protect the natural flora and fauna of the area while providing wonderful family friendly educational opportunities for the community. They also host a wildlife rehabilitation center. Trails, zip lines and quiet beauty await, at Ruffner Mountain. 1214 81st St. S., Birmingham, AL 35206 205-833-8264 ruffnermountain.org
Tannehill Ironworks Historical State Park
Tannehill Ironworks Historical State Park has more than 1,500 acres in three counties set aside for hiking, camping and outdoor recreation. A miniature railroad chugs through the pines. From spring through fall, the blacksmith, miller and craftsmen demonstrate their trades. Craft shops occupy restored pioneer cabins and artisans chat with visitors from their front porches. Steeped in history, Tannehill feels timeless. The cotton gin, pioneer farm and working gristmill preserve a long-gone way of life. Hiking trails retrace historic roadways. Artifacts of Alabama’s 19th century iron industry displayed in the Iron and Steel Museum put in perspective the massive stone furnaces, Tannehill’s awe-inspiring centerpiece. 12632 Confederate Pkwy., McCalla, AL 35111.
tannehill.org
FARMERS MARKETS
Pepper Place Saturday Market Every Saturday, April 8 through December 9, the Market moves outside to make room for local farmers and food producers. We welcome artists and musicians, too. In addition to our farmers in the big parking lot, we set up tents down 29th Street and into the Martin Biscuit Parking Lot next to Cantina Tortilla Grill and Bettola., this upscale Farmers Market is the place to be on Saturday mornings.Pepper Place, 2nd Ave. South. pepperplacemarket.com
East Lake Market
The East Lake Farmers Market is open Saturdays from 8 am to noon May 2 through October 3. We have jams, jellies, relishes, and fresh bread made in the East Lake Community Kitchen, plus East Lake Farmers Market t-shirts and other gear. The East Lake Farmers Market and Mobile Market truck offer a variety of fresh produce and more. Held at East Lake United Methodist Church parking lot. 7753 1st Ave N Birmingham, AL 35206 eastlakemarket.org
Urban Cookhouse Farmers Market @The Summit
The Summit and Urban Cookhouse for the sixth annual Farmers Market! The Farmers Market has the goal of providing fresh foods and products, and direct marketing of farms goods to the people of the local community and its surrounding areas. Find market favorites like fresh local produce, handcrafted jewelry, breads, cheeses, sauces, soaps, lotions and more. When: Thursdays from 3 p.m. – 7 p.m. Where: near Pottery Barn thesummitbirmingham.com/event/ farmers-market
West Homewood Farmers Market
If you’re ready for a slice of pie and Americana, the West Homewood Farmer’s Market is just the place to be during the warm summer evenings in West Homewood, Alabama. You’ll find Alabama’s favorite food trucks parked at the market along with 10+ local farms represented and all kinds of arts & crafts vendors. If it’s great music and great food you’re looking for... look no more! Every Tuesday evening from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m., June, July and first Tuesday in August 160 Oxmoor Rd. Homewood AL, 35209 westhomewood.com
Valleydale Farmers Market
At Valleydale Farmers’ Market, you’ll find a great line up of growers selling fresh, local produce, Alabama honey, humanely raised meats, free range eggs, dairy, and homemade goods, as well as our wonderful artisans, selling all types of baked goods, soaps, handmade art, homemade pasta, locally roasted coffee, and more. Open every Saturday morning of the Summer from 8 a.m. to noon. 4601 Valleydale Rd. Birmingham, AL 35242 www.valleydalefarmersmarket.com
Vestavia Hills UMC Farmers Market
Each week Vestavia Hills United Methodist Church will be hosting a farmers market in our large parking lot. It will be filled with seasonal vegetables, fruits, breads, and baked goods from local producers. The market will be open every Wednesday from 7:00 to 11:00 am. 2061 Kentucky Ave Vestavia Hills, AL 35216 vhumc.org/farmersmarket
CAMILLE SPRATLING Railroad Park
44
Since it first opened in 2010, Railroad Park quickly emerged as more than an urban greenspace—though clearly it is that, and a welcome one. It is also an attraction unto itself, with thoughtfully constructed hardscapes, a lake, a stunning rain curtain, play areas and outdoor gym equipment, and luxurious lawns perfect for concerts in the park. Its draw has helped spearhead the resurgence of downtown as a popular place to live, work, and play. Camille Spratling, who has lived downtown in the historic loft district for years, is executive director of Railroad Park Foundation. “I think Railroad Park gave the broader Birmingham community confidence to invest in, explore, and spend more time within the city,” Spratling says. “Railroad Park is tangible evidence that Birmingham is beautiful. A key part of that is that all different types of people come together there; the diversity at Railroad Park is a powerful thing to see each day. “The downtown residential community was special before Railroad Park, but I believe Railroad Park has given people within the City and beyond a hearty dose of civic pride… The downtown community is neighborly, B-METRO.COM diverse, social, and wonderfully dynamic.”
BEST
of the city
EXPLORE
B-METRO’S
BEST
of the city
HOME
Birmingham’s Premiere Design/Build Custom Home Builder
www.wedgworth.net (205) 365-4344 Current Neighborhoods:
Viridian, Glen Manor, Village Place, Altadena Park
Custom Home Opportunity: Estate-sized www.wedgworth.net View Lots on the ridge (205) 365-4344 at Altadena Park (Vestavia Hills)
PETS DOG DAYS Of Birmingham
Jimmy and Sue Johnson put a leash on their dreams back in 2010 and opened Dog Days of Birmingham in the former Hunter Furniture Store on 18th Street. The Johnsons sold their home in Hoover and Jimmy took over full time operations of thier new doggy day care enterprise. The couple lives in a loft above the business, which offers boarding, grooming, training and even a retail shop. The rooftop of the building has been reimagined as an outdoor space built to go to the dogs, where Johnson’s canine clients can enjoy play time in the sunshine. An IT professional earlier in his career, Johnson has found a new calling operating his dog-centered business downtown. His timing was perfect with the addition of so many dog-loving downtown residents in the past few years.
The Barking Zone
Daycare, Boarding and Training 5196 Caldwell Mill Road, Birmingham AL 35244 205-296-0855 thebarkingzone.com
Baths Barks & Bubbles Pet Spa 430 14th St. S Birmingham, AL 35233 205-214-3782
Cahaba Beach Dog Park
Dog Park, Day care, Boarding, Training, Grooming 3555 Cahaba Beach Road Birmingham, AL 205-397-3647 www.cahababeachdogpark.com
Dog Days Birmingham
Daycare, Boarding, Grooming 112 18Th ST N Birmingham, AL 35203 205-458-9364 www.dogdaysofbirmingham.com
Fetch Pet Care
Dog Walker, In Home Sitters, Boarding,... Servicing Alabaster, Birmingham, Chelsea, Fultondale, Helena and Pelham www.fetchpetcare.com
Generation Dog’s Rub-a-Dub-Dub Dog Bathhouse & Spa 1722 28th Ave S, Ste. J Birmingham, AL 35209 205-870-5085 www.rubadubdogbathhouse.com
Greater Birmingham Humane Society 300 Snow Dr. Birmingham AL 35209 205-942-1211 gbhs.org
Just Happy Hounds LLC
Daycare, Boarding, Grooming, Training 2222 5th Ave S Birmingham Al 35233 205-777-3699 www.justhappyhounds.com
My Spoiled Pet Resort & Spa Boarding, Daycare and Grooming 4752 US 280 46 B-METRO.COM
SPECIAL PROMOTION
It’s a
DOG’S LIFE Hear Ye! Hear Ye! Make way for the King! The King of dogs that is!!! By Jimmy Johnson If that isn’t what you think when you see Mokey in his chariot, being lovingly carted around by his owners, Jennifer and Marcus Dillavou, then you must know some other more pampered pups! “People often stop, look and point saying ‘It’s a dog, in that little cart!” claimed Jennifer with a laugh. “I think they’re expecting a child and instead it’s Mokey, with a big smile and his tongue hanging out!” At just 1 1/2 years old, Mokey is
a happy pup who is only too excited to jump into his personal ride and join his parents on a jaunt in and around downtown Birmingham! “We take him everywhere we can with us,” claimed his dad Marcus. “He really loves it.” As residents of the Highland Park area, the Dillavous aren’t your typical young couple. They don’t own a car! Instead they prefer to get around via two wheels, on the bus or by their own two feet! And Mokey is only too happy to go along for the ride. The trio can usually be seen rolling around Avondale on the weekends, checking out hike and bike trails on a sunny day, and of course commuting to their downtown work places during the week (Jennifer is a nurse at UAB while Marcus works at a software company) and with that commute
comes the drop off of Mokey to his favorite daytime play ground—Dog Days of Birmingham! The pup is a regular and staff favorite at DDoB. They claim he always has lots of happy tail wags to go around for the handlers and his doggy friends. And when it’s time to go home, Mokey knows his chariot awaits, along with a zippy and friendly face-filled ride home! Jimmy Johnson owns the Magic City’s premier dog daycare, boarding and training facility, Dog Days of Birmingham, in downtown with his wife, Sue. The pair opened their facility to a horde of happy puppy customers in 2010. Since then, the couple and their team of handlers have been winning awards, accolades and banking up hundreds of tail wags! Be sure to Follow them on Facebook @DogDaysofBham
Birmingham, AL 35242 205-980-5520 myspoiledpet.com
The Pawms Pet Resort
Two locations, Vestavia and Avondale Boarding, Training, Daycare V-205-823-5433 A-205-745-3933 pawms.com
Shelby County Humane Society 381 McDow Rd. C Columbiana AL 35051 205-669-3916 www.shelbyhumane.org
Shepphard’s Pet Supply 4410 4th Ave S A, Birmingham, AL 35222 205-703-0989 www.sheppardspet.com
Wags ‘N Whiskers Comprehensive Pet Care
Training, Daycare, Boarding, Grooming, Pet Taxi 2804 Crescent Ave. Homewood, AL 35209 205-902-9247 wagshomewood.com
VETS
Advanced Veterinary Care 2509 Rocky Ridge Rd Vestavia Hills, AL 35243 (205) 823-5433
avcov.net
Avondale Animal Hospital 3624 5th Ave S Birmingham, AL 35322 (205) 322-8566
southsideanimal.com Britt Animal Hospital 380 Summit Blvd Birmingham, AL 35243 (205) 967-2511
brittanimalhospital.com Cahaba Valley Animal Clinic 2209 Cahaba Valley Dr Birmingham, AL 35242 (205) 980-0078 cvacvet.com
Grants Mill Animal Hospital 5431 Beacon Dr Irondale, AL 35210 (205) 933-0515 grantsmillanimalhospital.com
Homewood Animal Hospital 501 Scott St Birmingham, AL 35209 Phone number (205) 943-0008
homewoodanimal.com Patton Chapel Animal Clinic 1665 Montgomery Hwy Hoover, AL 35216 Phone number (205) 822-4779 pattonchapelac.com
Riverview Animal Clinic, PC 4640 Hwy 280 Birmingham, AL 35242 (205) 991-9580 riverviewanimalclinic.net
Standifer Animal Clinic 2810 19th Pl S Birmingham, AL 35209 (205) 208-1299 standiferanimalclinic.com
Valleydale Animal Clinic 4680 Valleydale Rd Birmingham, AL 35242 (205) 991-5416 valleydaleanimalclinic.com
DONNA FARMER
Birmingham Boston Terrier Rescue A Realtor and artist, Farmer started Birmingham Boston Terrier Rescue (BBTR) in 2005 and runs it with the help of Amy Samford and other volunteers. Farmer says the need is great. Often people are beguiled by a funny dog in a commercial and invest in a Boston terrier only to realize they don’t have the time or interest in taking time to train their dog, or they have unrealistic expectations of perfect behavior. In other cases, families relinquish dogs because their owner has passed away, someone develops an allergy, or neglect is reported. If BBTR can accept the terrier, they’ll bring it in, assess its health needs and any behavioral issues and then get to work finding them a forever home. Farmer loves the happy endings but emphasizes that animal rescue is tough. “I see good intentions from all the (rescue) start-ups but sometimes a lack of business experience and general practicality,” she says. “The image most people have of a dog rescuer is an unkempt, middle age woman, juggling five dogs and wondering why her neighbors look at her funny. I would like for people to see that it is a service of dedicated pros.” It also helps BBTR that Boston terriers know how to put on the charm when a qualified potential owner comes forward. “These dogs are keen on interacting with people and getting a laugh out of you,” Farmer says. “Tenacious, smart, resourceful, and sometimes athletic (though just as often not!), they are always pulling some goofy stunt. Best of all, Boston Terriers never need to rent a tux—they come with one, standard issue. They just need a bow tie and are ready to put on the Ritz!” 48 B-METRO.COM
Photo by Jaysen Michael
B-METRO’S
BEST
of the city
EXPLORE
B-METRO’S
BEST of the city
HOME
B-METRO’S
BEST PLAY of the city
B-METRO’S
BEST
of the city
ARTS
SHOPPING
JEFFREY BAYER Bayer Properties, LLC
As the founder, president and CEO of Bayer Properties, LLC, Jeffrey Bayer has grown the organization from a local property management company into a national commercial real estate firm. Locally, Bayer is well known for developing Cahaba Village, The Pizitz, the Uptown Entertainment District and The Summit Birmingham—a retail force-to-be-reckoned-with celebrating its 20th anniversary this year. Bayer is widely credited with changing how Birmingham shops. With the Summit, he gave consumers the choice of either making a day of it with all the shops, restaurants and amenities on-site or, if they prefer, enjoying the ability to pull up to a single shop and run in to grab what they need. But as with all Bayer properties, Bayer believes the other secret is maintaining quality and ambience at all costs. “At The Summit, you don’t see a lot of deferred maintenance; you see flowers and beautiful landscaping; it’s clean and safe. That costs money, but our attitude is, we can still make plenty of money while giving the consumers what they want—because if we don’t, somebody else will, whether it’s a competitor, a new project or the Internet.” Next on the horizon? Less horizontal retailing, more vertical, especially mixed-use destinations. “In the next year we’ll be tearing down a part of The Summit that we think is outdated, and we’ll introduce a hotel, more residential with retail on the bottom of it, and bring to the market what people want.”
Brookwood Village
Brookwood Village is an indoor/outdoor shopping center where you will find anchor stores such as Macy’s and Belk, DSW and The Fresh Market, as well as great dining options such as Brio Tuscan Grille, Cocina Superior, Hickory Tavern or Grille 29. www.shopbrookwoodvillage.com
Riverchase Galleria
Whether you’re a resident or just visiting, a trip to Riverchase Galleria is a must when you’re in town. You can spend the day shopping in more than 150 stores, people watching in the largest enclosed shopping center in Alabama or fueling a night out with a delicious dish from the restaurants that ring the mall. Key stores include Von Maur, Macy’s, Belk and H&M. www.shopbrookwoodvillage.com
The Outlet Shops of Grand River
The Outlet Shops of Grand River is an outlet mall in Grand River located minutes from Birmingham along I-20 at Exit 140 in Leeds. Among the signature shops at Grand River are H&M, Brooks Brothers, Coach, J. Crew and Talbots. Coyote Drive-in & Canteen features movies under the stars and is a great date-night and family-friendly destination within Grand River. www.shopsofgrandriver.com Photo by Beau Gustafson 50 B-METRO.COM
Children’s of Alabama is ... l
The third largest pediatric hospital in the United States
l
Licensed for 332 beds & 48 NICU bassinets One of the Top 20 employers in Alabama with more than 4,700 employees across the state The pediatric teaching hospital for the School of Medicine at UAB Home to the Pediatric & Congenital Heart Center of Alabama, where more than 450 cardiac surgeries are performed annually Site of the only pediatric kidney dialysis program in the state — one of the largest in the country Home to one of the largest burn units in the Southeast One of the largest pediatric rheumatology programs in the nation and the only one in Alabama Provides care for more than 90 percent of Alabama children with cancer and blood disorders
l l l l l l l
............................... Russell Campus 1600 7th Avenue South, Birmingham, AL 35233 205.638.9100 Benjamin Russell Hospital for Children Lowder Building and McWane Building McWane Building Children’s on Third Outpatient Center Children’s Park Place
1601 5th Avenue South 1600 7th Avenue South 1600 7th Avenue South 1208 3rd Avenue South 1600 5th Avenue South
Children’s South 1940 Elmer J. Bissell Road, Birmingham, AL 35243 205.638.4800 Outpatient surgery services, Pediatric Imaging Center, laboratory services, specialty care clinics and After Hours care
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)
U.S. News & World Report
This icon is not the official U.S. News & World Report best hospitals emblem.
2016-17
BEST CHILDREN’S HOSPITALS
www.ChildrensAL.org
B-METRO.COM 51
The Summit
The Summit, which opened in October 1997, is a one million square foot upscale lifestyle center located at the intersection of U.S. Highway 280 and Interstate 459 in Birmingham. The Summit is a creative hub for food, fashion, special events, films, and anytime-style inspiration. The center also specializes in experiences, from food festivals to farmers markets to musical events. Key stores include Saks Fifth Avenue, The Apple Store and Trader Joes, along with many other first-inAlabama retailers. thesummitbirmingham.com
Neighborhood Shopping
One of the real strengths of Birmingham’s shopping environment lie in the neighborhoods of the city. You will find excellent locally oriented shopping throughout the metro. Take for example Mountain Brook. The three villages, Mountain Brook Village, Crestline Village, and English Village, are full of great shops and restaurants. Cahaba Village, right on Highway 280, also offers plenty of shopping opportunities from Diamonds Direct to Whole Foods Market. You will also find great neighborhood shopping just down from The Summit in Cahaba Heights. Within Homewood, you can find terrific retailers and restaurants in the middle of town.
LANE PARKE
10th
ANNIVERSARY BirminghamRestaurants.com Dining Guide of Birmingham's Best Restaurants Since 2007 52 B-METRO.COM
For as long as most of us can remember, Mountain Brook Village has been a landmark over-the-mountain destination for everything from searching for a diamond necklace to getting a haircut, buying a gift for a child’s party to shopping for groceries, or just stopping for a leisurely lunch. The adjacent Park Lane apartments, meanwhile, provided a mainstay rental property for young people just starting out or anyone who wanted a Mountain Brook zip code without the high rent. The only problem was that both properties were aging and in need of significant updating. To address this need, Rele Evans and his son, John, heirs to the late developer A.A. Evans, began years ago working with the most experienced development experts in their fields, and construction began in 2012 on the new Lane Parke. It is a fully mixed-use development consisting of the Grand Bohemian, a first-class boutique hotel; a 276 unit apartment complex; and a diverse and modern retail center (of which Phase 1 is already completed and Phase 2 construction is underway, with completion expected by early 2019). Along with producing millions in tax dollars and improving traffic flow at the current shopping center, the development will seamlessly blend the old with the new while producing a more vibrant live/work/play experience for residents and visitors, says John Evans, president of Evson, Inc. “Lane Parke will blend with existing Village architecture by using designs that are compatible with the style that is unique to Mountain Brook,” Evans says. “To say our family is extremely proud of the project is an understatement. We feel Lane Parke is a legacy for future generations to come.”
THEATRE
RED MOUNTAIN THEATRE COMPANY
Red Mountain Theatre Company (RMTC) is a longbeloved theatrical institution in Birmingham which found new groove when actor, choreographer and director Keith Cromwell came to town and took over some 15 years ago as the company’s executive director. Today it presents a variety of shows—from family friendly to edgier works—in the elegant RMTC Cabaret Theatre downtown at 301 19th Street North. RMTC also offers some of the region’s highest-quality theatre education, with a wide variety of classes, immersive-camps and a yearlong conservatory. Through its performances, RMTC strives to “nourish the human spirit.” Along those lines, keep an eye out for performances in the new Cabaret Series, developed to challenge audiences with enriching and engaging shows that are “distinctly Birmingham and definitely Broadway.” Visit redmountaintheatre.org. Keith Cromwell photographed by Beau Gustafso Legally Blonde and Guys and Dolls, Jr. Performance photos courtesy of Red Mountain Theatre Company,
Arts Council of the Trussville Area Theatre
ACTA Theatre is a non-profit community theatre located in the ‘heart’ of Trussville. There’s something for everyone at ACTA; children’s performances, musical theatre, comedy, dramatic arts, classics, tragedies and quality entertainment right in the heart of Trussville. 225 Parkway Dr #103, Trussville, AL 35173 205-665-3902 actatheater.com
Birmingham Children’s Theatre
Birmingham Children’s Theatre exists to educate, entertain and enrich the lives of children through the magic of professional theatre. One of the nation’s oldest and largest professional theatre companies for young audiences, BCT produces high-quality, professional theatrical entertainment and curriculum-relevant arts education experiences for children and families. BCT is the second largest employer of professional theatre artists in Alabama, and is Alabama’s only professional touring theatre company. As the resident professional theatre company of the Birmingham-Jefferson Convention Complex (BJCC), BCT operates the 150-seat Dominick Studio Theatre, the intimate 250-seat Wee Folks Theatre for students ages 3-6 and the larger 950-seat Mainstage Theatre for students ages 6-up. 2130 Richard Arrington Jr. Blvd., Birmingham , AL 35203 205-458-8181 bct123.org
Birmingham Festival Theatre
Birmingham Festival Theatre is the city’s oldest theatre to produce contemporary and classic works. With a vision to present innovative works and give a voice to new plays by Southern writers, the intimate theatre has staged over 200 productions and has hosted almost 100,000 audience members since it was founded in 1972. 1901 1/2 11th Ave S 205-933-2383 bftonline.org
Comedy Club Stardome
You can enjoy a fun-filled evening of fantastic food, drinks and entertainment by the nation’s top comedians at the Stardome. If being in the audience is not your style, be sure to go on Open Mic Night and take the stage yourself. 1818 Data Dr., Hoover 205-444-0008 stardome.com
The Extemporaneous Theatre Company
The Extemporaneous Theatre Company, founded in 2008, is a repertory-style company comprised of professional artists in theatre, comedy, and a variety of sub-specialties. extemporaneoustheatre.com
Opera Birmingham
Since 1955, Opera Birmingham has entertained audiences with world-class operatic productions and concerts. Over 50 operas later, the much-loved company is still going strong. 3601 6th Ave S., Birmingham 54 B-METRO.COM
205-322-6737 operabirmingham.org
Red Mountain Theatre Company
Under the leadership of Executive Director Keith Cromwell, RMTC stages classical musical theatre while incubating new works. We employ award-winning veteran artists alongside young professionals. For nearly four decades, we’ve cultivated one of the finest arts education centers in the South. Newsies JUL 7 – JUL 30, 2017 G2K Cinderella JUL 14 – JUL 16, 2017 Once On This Island JR. JUL 28- JUL 30, 2017 2017-18 Season Holiday Spectacular The Color Purple 13 The Musical Smokey Joe’s Cafe Beauty and the Beast Mamma Mia P.O. Box 278, Birmingham , AL 35201 (205) 324-2424 redmountaintheatre.org
South City Theatre
South City Theatre produce six mainstage plays each year, attracting approximately 3,000 audience members annually. The youth program, Acting Up, offers two workshops during the school year and a two-week summer camp, which allow children ages 9-16 the opportunity to study the craft of acting by producing a production under the direction professional theatre instructors. 2969 Pelham Parkway, Suite J, Pelham , AL 35124 (205) 621-2128 southcitytheatre.com
Terrific New Theatre
Terrific New Theatre has served Birmingham for over thirty years. In 2016, founder and artistic director Carl Stewart –- a Birmingham icon -- retired. TNT welcomed Tam DeBolt as Artistic Director starting with the 31st season. The mission of Terrific New Theatre is to promote the presence of non-profit community theatre in Birmingham, Alabama, and the surrounding region, through presentation of a distinctive season of high-quality contemporary programs. In addition, TNT will act as a showcase for local talent and as a workshop/ lab where theatre folk can experience hands-on participation. 2821 2nd Avenue South, Dr Pepper Showrooms, Birmingham , AL 35233 (205) 328-0868 terrificnewtheatre.com
Theatre Downtown
Theatre Downtown is dedicated to exposing Birmingham audiences to the most entertaining, engaging, and innovative shows - both past and present - as well as serving as an outlet for original works and other artistic endeavors. Performances take place in the Fifth Avenue Antiques space. Southern Baptist Sissies by Del Shores (July 27-August 12) Trevor by Nick Jones (September 7-23) 2410 5th Avenue South, Birmingham , AL 35233 205-565-8838 theatredowntown.org
Virginia Samford Theatre
Formerly known as The Little Theatre, The Clark Memorial Theatre and Town & Gown Theatre, this Romanesque playhouse is the origin of Birmingham’s theatrical legacy. Generations of performances have taken
TAM DEBOLT
Terrific New Theatre Terrific New Theatre artistic director Tam DeBolt is filling legendary shoes this year, taking the reigns from Carl Stewart, who founded TNT and served as its artistic director for 30 years before retiring last year. But then, DeBolt is a theatre legend in her own right as an actress, director, designer and stage manager. As TNT launches its 31st season, DeBolt says she’s bringing her own ideas but also taking inspiration from the audience itself. “They tell me what they like and what they don’t like,” she says. “They love TNT. They love what it represents—where it comes from, and I truly feel like the people that spend their money at Terrific New Theatre have a sense of ownership in its existence…and its success.” If DeBolt had to describe TNT’s niche, it would be this. “Our audiences love all different types of offerings, and we hope to continue the tradition of presenting theatre that challenges not only the performers, designers and technicians, but also the presenters.” 56 B-METRO.COM
place in this space. In 1999, the theatre was facing demolition. A capital campaign restored the building and it reopened as the Virginia Samford Theatre in 2002. It serves as a beacon for local talent and performers are drawn to showcase their creativity. Gypsy (Thursday Jun 29, 2017 - Sunday Jul 16, 2017) STARS presents: Roald Dahl’s Willy Wonka, Jr. (Thursday Jul 27, 2017 - Sunday Aug 6, 2017) A Chorus Line (Thursday Sep 21, 2017 - Sunday Oct 1, 2017) The Taming of the Shrew (Friday Nov 3, 2017 - Sunday Nov 12, 2017) STARS presents: A Charlie Brown Christmas (Thursday Nov 16, 2017 - Sunday Nov 19, 2017) Norton Dill’s A Bluegrass Christmas Carol (Thursday Dec 7, 2017 - Sunday Dec 17, 2017) Chicago (Thursday Jan 25, 2018 - Sunday Feb 11, 2018) Samford & Samford’s The Jungle Book (Thursday Feb 15, 2018 - Friday Feb 16, 2018) STARS presents: The Wizard of Oz (Thursday Mar 1, 2018 - Sunday Mar 11, 2018) Maggie’s Perfect Match (Thursday Mar 15, 2018 - Sunday Mar 25, 2018) Ain’t Misbehavin’ (Thursday Apr 19, 2018 - Sunday Apr 29, 2018) STARS presents: Hairspray JR. (Thursday Jul 26, 2018 - Sunday Aug 5, 2018) 1116 26th Street South, Birmingham , AL 35205 (205) 251-1228 virginiasamfordtheatre.org
SPECIAL PROMOTION
How Fair Haven’s Household Model is Changing the Face of Senior Living When it came time for Fair Haven, one of Birming ham’s premier Life Plan retirement communities, to have an expansion and a “facelift”, the community not only looked at buildings and space, they also looked at how residents feel and function. “The development of relationships is central to the household concept, with associates and other residents be coming akin to extended family members,” said Christo pher Tomlin, President & CEO of Methodist Homes, Fair Haven’s parent organization. “The improved quality of life in this environment seems limitless, but is best summed up by the fact that ‘life happens in the household’.” Fair Haven is the first in Alabama to fully embrace the innovative Action Pact Household Model, now imple mented in its three newest buildings for assisted living, longterm care, and shortterm rehabili Independent Living tation. Assisted Living In a household, residents live togeth Memory Care er in smaller groups, Short-Term Rehabilitation where each enjoys a private suite with Long-Term Care private bath, and Alzheimer’s / Dementia Care shares the common Backed by Methodist Homes spaces of home, such as a living Of Alabama & Northwest room, den, kitchen, Florida familylike dining,
1-205-956-4150 1424 Montclair Rd, Irondale, AL 35210
and more. There are no visible nurse’s stations or medication carts. Instead of meals being delivered preplated on plastic trays from a central kitchen, meals are plated and served fresh out of the household’s own kitchen. Dining alterna tives and snacks can be prepared on request from an al waysavailable menu. From a lifestyle perspective, this new model encour ages residents to direct their own care and lives, maintain their dignity and individuality, expand their interests, and stay engaged in a life that’s vibrantly their own. Fair Haven resident Rick Nash has lived at Fair Ha ven throughout the recent renovations and the change to the Household Model, and already, he’s seeing a benefit. “I think [the renovation] is very nice. It goes way beyond nursing home living. We have very nice rooms, a very nice building,” he said. “The care has always been good, but now it’s a bit more personal.”
One of three new assisted living households.
fairhavenbirmingham.org/
WELCOME TO
SPORT
58 CITY GUIDE 2017
WHAT DOES IT TAKE TO QUALIFY AS A GREAT PLACE FOR SPORTS?
TOWN WRITTEN BY
hen I Googled “best sports towns in America” I noticed a glaring omission on the list. What was the missing city? I will save the answer for a moment (but if you can’t guess the answer while reading BMetro then your powers of deductive reasoning are God awful). First, how about a question for you: What makes a city a Mecca for sports, anyway? Is it the number of professional franchises? The size of the fan base? The number of championships? The bodypaint applied per capita? Those qualifications seem rational. I would put another category ahead of them all, though: The passion for sports in general; the average time a citizen spends worrying, loving, caring and studying one or all sports. So, back to my original question, the glaring omission was obviously…Birmingham.
LUKE ROBINSON
Los Angeles and New York were justifiably on there. Boston and Philadelphia, too. Detroit, Pittsburgh, Seattle, Atlanta and Charlotte all made the list. But no Birmingham. Let me say—in my most Darth Vadery voice—I find the Internet’s lack of faith in Birmingham’s sports fandom…disturbing. I don’t mean to be too hyperbolic, but I could make the case that Birmingham is the best…sports…town…in America! “Luke, are you playin’?”, you ask. Hell naw I ain’t playin’?! I mean this, man! The Magic City is at least on par with many other more famous locations with bigger airports that did actually make that list. Before I go into why Birmingham is the best, let me poke a few holes in those other locales first. Los Angeles is a fantastic city with tons of personality and more stars than Bill Gates’ third grade homework. But is it a great sports town? You mean the 2nd largest city in the country that is sooooOOoooo sports
hungry it went without an NFL franchise for 20 years? Have you WATCHED the Lakers play lately? Or the Clippers? They could call off their games due to “lack of interest”. I just went to a Major League Baseball game in Los Angeles last month. There were more people at the local park playing dodge ball than watching the Dodgers bat! Meanwhile, New York is an AWESOME site for sports. But NYC is an AWESOME site for just about anything. You like museums? Go to New York. Incredible landmarks? New York. Wideranging diversity? New York. Great food? New York. Giant subway rats big enough to wear tennis shoes? New York. The point is, NYC has 4.89 billion people (memo to self: fact check that number) and a lot of them are bound to like sports. So, really, putting New York on the list is kind of cheating. Philadelphia and Detroit are incredibly sports savvy cities, but just because the fans call into radio shows to complain about their hockey teams with the ferocity of a DMV worker with Tourette’s SynB-METRO.COM 59
BARONS BASEBALL
Baseball came back to life in an extraordinary way as the Birmingham Barons took the field in the new $64 million Regions Field adjacent to Railroad Park. The stadium, with its Thirsty Thursday crowds of revelers and the sloping lawn in left field where kids spend the game playing and scrambling for foul balls, became a proud new landmark overnight. The history of the Birmingham Barons traces back to 1885, when the Barons (originally named the Coal Barons) played in the many southern leagues that existed during the early years of baseball. In those years, the leagues came and went, but baseball in Birmingham survived. In 1901, the Southern Association formed, with teams in Birmingham, Selma, New Orleans, Shreveport, Little Rock, Memphis, Nashville and Chattanooga. Today that history continues in the crack of the bat and the roar of the crowd. The Barons have been one of the main ingredients in the startling revival of downtown, injecting infectious good times into summer days and nights. The final home game of the 2017 season is August 30 versus Tennessee.
Photos courtesy of The Birmingham Barons
60 CITY GUIDE 2017
drome doesn’t make them better than Birmingham. Atlanta’s inclusion over Birmingham is what gets me. Look, Atlanta is hip and cool no doubt. If you want funky, the A-T-L is the funkiest place in Funktown! (And if anyone knows “funky,” it’s me…a 44 year old, middle class, white male from rural Alabama.) However, when it comes to sports, Atlanta can be almost dys“funk”tional. The city has the classic pro-sports vibe; all corporate-like and watered down. The Falcons’ Super Bowl run last season being the exception to that rule and the Braves’ not selling out NL Championship Series games (I know cause I was there for some) being more of the standard fare. And don’t get me started on the Hawks. I used to love that squad, but he last time people were really fired up about that team was when they missed a layup to tie the game against Larry Bird’s Celtics in the 1988 playoffs. Damn you, Cliff Livingston!!!!
According to my completely biased opinion, there is no high school sporting event in the world that is as much fun as The Alabama High School Athletic Association’s “The Finals” at Legacy Arena downtown. Birmingham may not have the dense populations and pro sports scene of those aforementioned cities, but fan-for-fan, when it comes to sports, this town is more passionate than Cinemax at 11 p.m. on a Friday night. Rightfully so, too. There are more kick-ass sporting events in the Magic City than a wizard can shake a wand at! Let’s just start with the fact the Southeastern Conference—the best damn conference in this here ‘Merica—is headquartered in Birmingham. To us, that’s like having the Louvre in Leeds. But instead of the Mona Lisa, it’d be filled with nothing but Daniel Moore prints. Also, the SEC Championship WAS BORN here! Atlanta stole the marquee event away from us because of their fancy domed stadium (and, truthfully, the weather for the first two SECCG’s in Bhm was Arctic-esque), but the impetus for Championship games everywhere was played at Legion Field. Legendary Florida State head coach Bobby Bowden? He’s from Birmingham. “Mr. Kick Six” Chris Davis? Birmingham. Running back extraordinaire Bobby Humphrey and his recently NFL-drafted son, Marlon? Birmingham. Heisman winner Pat Sullivan, national championship winning coach Dabo Swinney along with Georgia Southern legend Erk Russell were all born in Birmingham. Heck, Birmingham even took a page from pop culture’s book by resurrecting the dead when it comes to football! The UAB grid-
BEST PLAY
BEST
of the city
of the city
EXPLORE
Alabama BEST Ballet
B-METRO’S
BEST
B-METRO’S
A
of the city
of the city
ARTS
HOME
Alabama Ballet, the state’s premiere, professional ballet company will begin their 36th season this fall with their season-opener, Alabama Ballet At Home, on September 15. Performances for the 2017/18 season include Ovation, George Balanchine’s The Nutcracker®, Swan Lake and Le Fille Mal Gardée. Tickets go on sale to season subscribers on July 17th and to the general public on August 1st at alabamaballet.org. 205.322.4300
I www.alabamaballet.org
P E R F O R M A N C E
At Home Sept. 15-17, Sept. 22-24
Ovation Oct. 20-22
S C H E D U L E
George Balanchine’s The Nutcracker® Dec. 8-10, Dec. 15-17
Swan Lake March 2-4
Le Fille Mal Gardée April 6-8
ACCESS EVERYTHING YOU NEED,
every time you need it. Enjoy more access to your kitchen with custom pull-out shelves for your existing cabinets.
50% OFF INSTALLATION * Schedule your free design consultation
(888) 491-6191 • shelfgenie.com
Limit one offer per household. Applies to purchases of 5 or more Classic or Designer Glide-Out™ shelves. Expires 8/31/2017. Lifetime warranty valid for Classic or Designer Solutions.
*
B-METRO.COM 61
COLLEGE SPORTS
They are our major leagues. In this town, college sports, primarily football, rules the roost. We are either an Alabama football town with an Auburn insurgency or vice versa, depending on your point of view. But we are also enamored with the death and rebirth of UAB football and all that entails for the school and the city. The rebirth of football was a community and business leadership groundswell that has created a level of interest not seen in years past in a town enamored with the SEC. The Blazers will begin playing again this fall. Sept. 2: Alabama A&M Sept. 9: at Ball State Sept. 16: Coastal Carolina Sept. 23: at North Texas Oct. 7: Louisiana Tech Oct. 14: Middle Tennessee Oct. 21: at Charlotte Oct. 28: at Southern Miss Nov. 4: Rice Nov. 11: at University of Texas, San Antonio Nov. 18: at Florida Nov. 25: University of Texas, El Paso In addition to the Blazer football phenomenon, basketball plays an important role at UAB. The city’s other colleges are equally robust in the college sports department. Birmingham-Southern fields major teams in football, basketball, baseball and soccer. Samford has an exciting football program with excited fans, as well as teams in the other major sports. Same story with Miles College. There is also plenty of interest in prep sports throughout the city.
Photo courtesy of UAB
62 CITY GUIDE 2017
iron Blazers had died a merciless death only to have the city’s sheer willpower bring them back amongst the living in a just a few years! File that Lazarus story under «Believable, Un-By-God!» Oh you prefer high school football? How about a li’l program called “The Hoover Bucs”? They made the-normally-hot-as-hell gridiron spring practices cool via MTV back in the day. Since that time, Hoover has been collecting trophies the way Angelina Jolie collects kids. That school wins enough rings to make Elton John vomit with envy. Meanwhile, famous NFLers with names like Bo Jackson, Cornelius Bennett, Marcell Dareus, Andre Smith and Karlos Dansby all played high school ball in or near Birmingham. The football natives and accolades should surprise no one; Birmingham has long been called “The Football Capital of the South.” But wait…there’s more! According to my completely biased opinion, there is no high school sporting event in the world that is as much fun as The Alabama High School Athletic Association’s “The Finals” at Legacy Arena downtown. The final four teams from every classification in both genders meet over a series of six days in Birmingham to decide who will hoist the state championship trophies. “The Finals” (or the artist formerly known as “The Final 48”) is truly a sight to behold with alums like Ronald Steele, Eric Bledsoe, John Petty and DeMarcus Cousins. “The Finals” have been especially fantastic lately with all of the local teams performing so well. Mountain Brook’s neon warriors provide many a “highlight,” Parker High School is always on the move and Midfield’s success is only matched by its coaches’ dapper suits. A special thanks should go to the good folks at Knight-Eady who have helped turned “The Finals” into a can’t-miss event every year. Thanks to that company and the leadership at the Alabama High School Athletic Association, this basketball tournament is the envy of the country. Of course you know Charles Barkley is from this area, right? Crimson Tide legends Ennis Whatley and Buck Johnson, too. Meanwhile, the BJCC once hosted one of the best games in SEC Basketball Tournament history when Alabama’s Elliot Washington buried a three pointer to beat a disgustingly good Arkansas team in 1992. Then there’s baseball… On the surface, it looks like that may be the weak link in Birmingham’s sports chain; what with no Major League team and all. However, the Barons’ playing at Regions Field (adjacent to the revamped Railroad Park) makes for an awesome family outing. Rickwood Field is the country’s oldest professional baseball stadium and a wonderful part of the sport’s history. Also, the SEC baseball tournament resides in Hoover and that certainly gives the sport a spark in the summertime. Even if baseball isn’t the city’s strength, a suburb of Birmingham did produce Hall of Famer Willie Mays. I would say that’s enough of a contribution. How about the more ancillary sports like soccer, boxing, hockey, etc? Well, Indian Springs School (my alma mater!---I know, I can’t believe I got in either!) was the landing spot for the late, great Ray Woodard. Known as “the father of soccer in Alabama”, Woodard
Silent & Live Auction Show passes $200 VIP Show passes $275 (Includes Meet & Greet with Taylor Hicks) Sponsorships available at our website
6th Annual
www.anightofbigstars.com
Benefiting Big Brothers Big Sisters of Greater Birmingham August 5, 2017 at 6:00 pm
Building Children, Building Birmingham
Special Guest,
Honorary Chairmen
TAYLOR HICKS Birmingham native and winner of Season 5 of American Idol
Show by “Littles” in the BBBS program
Rob Burton, Robert Simon, Corporate Realty, Hoar Construction, President CEO
For more information:
Jessica Whatley B-METRO.COM 63 205-939-5590 jwhatley@bbbsbhm.org
THE ALTERNATIVES
If we are not near the sport we love, we love the sport we’re near. That may be a bit of an overstatement, but Birmingham has lately been spreading its wings and embracing less than major sports like ice hockey, rugby and soccer. Youth soccer has exploded throughout the Birmingham region with all ages and skill levels taking to the pitch and kicking around the ball. The Birmingham Hammers play in the National Premier Soccer League, a nationwide league founded in 2002 that now features 80 teams across the country. The team plays at the Sicard Hollow Athletic Complex in Vestavia. The puck drops this fall on the rebirth of ice hockey in Birmingham. The Birmingham Bulls, who had two previous runs in the city in the 1970s and 1990s, will be playing beginning this October at the Pelham Civic Complex. The distant cousin of our favorite sport is also played in Birmingham. The Birmingham Vulcans, established in 1967, are a Rugby Union club competing in Division II of the USA Rugby True South Union. Under the umbrella of the Birmingham Rugby Club Foundation is Central Alabama Youth Rugby with programs for players ages 6 through 19.
Kyle Emerick. Photo by Eric Lopez
64 CITY GUIDE 2017
rightfully earned that moniker as he introduced prep soccer to the state, cultivated its growth and mentored thousands of players and future coaches. He could arguably be the most influential coach of any sport in Alabama prep history. When he passed in 2009, soccer—and Birmingham—lost a true champion. It should be noted that the BHM is back in the boxing game, too, as Tuscaloosa native Deontay Wilder has begun pummeling opponents right here in downtown. His fight at Bartow Arena in 2015 was the city’s first heavyweight fight ever. With Wilder’s Shaq-like wingspan and Shazam-ism power, Birmingham will probably be home to several more fights for some time to come. So, it’s icy hot hockey action you want??? Well then YOU SIR…are…shit outta luck. Apparently, when it comes to hockey, Birmingham really doesn’t give a “puck.” However, I just learned recently via Birmingham’s sports radio station WJOX that the legendary Gordie Howe did score his 1000th goal right in our fair city. Put that fact in your penalty box and smoke it! It also appears that the Birmingham Bulls are returning after a 17-year hiatus! Cold beer and fist-fights for everyone!!!! Speaking of sports radio, Paul Finebaum basically built an empire on the solid foundation of Birmingham’s sports insanity. Only in Birmingham could people spell “Paul” with five “W’s” and have it make sense. Because of a word limit, I unfortunately have to leave out the exploits of bobsledding great Vonetta Flowers as well as track legends Carl Lewis and Trey Hardee; all of whom were Olympians. And can you smell what Theodore Long is cooking? You should... He is the General Manager of WWE Smackdown. Then there’s the Alabama Sports Hall of Fame downtown... the coolest thing since the automated bread slicer. It is literally a building filled with overwhelming greatness. When you walk in the place, history washes over you like a hot shower (and frankly, some of you could use that... Just sayin’.) Finally, if sports gambling is your game, Birmingham is your town. I mean, if you can’t get to Vegas of course. There’s two things the Magic City loves: BBQ and bookies. If you are from Birmingham and you have never stayed up past 1 in the morning to make sure Hawaii covered a teaser, you are practically alone on an island my friend. There are so many underthe-table bets made here that the city no longer collects sales tax; it gets “juice.” So let New York have its Jets and LA have its Rams. I’ll take a Van Tiffin 52 yard field goal or a “Bo Over the Top” any day. Miami can keep the Heat and let Chicago have stock in the Bulls (or Bears). I would rather watch Eric Bledsoe face off against DeMarcus Cousins in the high school state semifinals. The passion for sports in Birmingham isn’t fabricated. It isn’t canned via mass production and then strategically branded by a team of marketers as a passion-substitute brought to you by ABC Widget Corporation; it’s a real, tangible, grass roots love for games. And I will probably be sued by the Southeastern Conference for saying this, but when it comes to sports in Birmingham, it just means...more.
B-METRO’S
BEST SCHOOLS of the city
Look for our massage school coming soon.
B-METRO’S
BEST HEATLH BODY LOGIC School of Cosmetology N O W R E G I S T E R I N G F O R FA L L C of L A Sthe S E Scity
Body Logic Owner,
RENEE HUGHES
B-METRO’S
5510 Highway 280 E Suite 203, Birmingham, AL 35242 Greystone Center 205-991-8083 | www.bodylogicschool.com of the
BEST city
HOME
Dine. Stay. See a Play. $ 255.00 Includes 2 Sumptuous 3-Course Din ners + One night stay at The Highla nds In n Lodge* (double occupa ncy) + 2 Premium Theatre T ickets to a Highla nds Cashiers Players Production *Second night’s accom modation is 15% off regular rate.
Single package available for $199.
BOOK TODAY AT:
www.Highla ndsCashiersPlayers.org or call HCP Event Concierge: (828) 526-8084 This offer supported by a gra nt from the Highla nds Cha mber of Com merce a nd Visitor Center
Thursday-Sunday, August 24-27 Thursday-Sunday, August 31-Sept 3 Evenings at 7:30 Sunday matinees at 2:30 B-METRO.COM 65
B
o
S
B P
o
B
o
A
MY PART OF
TOWN
THE BEST OF NEIGHBORHOODS PHOTOGRAPHY BY JAYSEN MICHAEL
A PLACE TO CALL HOME Mt. Laurel
It is a quiet Sunday in Mt Laurel. Kids in the park. People riding bikes. Plants and flowers for sale on the blossoming sidewalks in the center of town. This is a town you can come home to, a special house on a manicured street with shade trees adding comfort and quiet to the streetscape. Mt Laurel was planned by Duany Plater-Zyberk & Company, the originators of the New Urbanism movement and best known for their Alys Beach and Seaside, Florida, developments. The same sense of identity that made these towns world-renowned can be found at Mt Laurel. The town center is a classic with a firehouse, and retail shops and pizza restaurants. Mt Laurel is built for life beyond the ordinary, a neighborhood that brings wonderful design and comfort to the living experience. From fire trucks to kids at play on the latest playground equipment, a day in Mt Laurel is a microcosm of what makes a great town.
66 CITY GUIDE 2017
MT. LAUREL
B-METRO.COM 67
GROW YOUR FAMILY EDGEWOOD
Dogs and children in the park, bakery goods glimpsed through the shop windows, an ice cream cone dripping on a warm summer day; this is Edgewood. The heart of Edgewood runs along Oxmoor Road with major churches like Dawson Memorial and Trinity Methodist giving way to neighborhood shops and services. A stroll down through the heart of Edgewood is really a step back into a time when communities were extraordinary capsules of life. You can find bakeries and ice cream shops, framing stores and spas, and restaurants serving the myriad cuisines of American: Mexican, barbecue, pizza. Edgewood is one Birmingham’s greatest neighborhoods for families, and young families flock here for the amenities as well as the schools. Heading down Broadway from Oxmoor, you can see the welltended houses and the life of families played out on the lawns and sidewalks. At the other end of Broadway, you run right into another small commercial area with two great neighborhood restaurants, Gianmarco’s and JoJo’s on Broadway. Homewood Park is a great place for kids and pets. From tacos to ice cream to cupcakes, you can indulge your tastebuds on a stroll through Edgewood.
68 CITY GUIDE 2017
Providing care in the Best Place Possible... the Patient’s Home HOME HEALTH & HOSPICE SERVICES • Skilled Nursing • Rehabilitative Therapy (Physical, Occupational & Speech) • Hospice & Palliative Care • Patient & Family Caregiver Education • Home Care Aides • Pain Management • Medical Social Services Susan B. Brouillette, CEO and John G. Beard, President
www.alacare.com 1.888.alacare (888.252.2273)
B-METRO’S
BEST EAT of the city
B-METRO’S
BEST
of the city
EXPLORE
B-METRO’S
BEST
of the city
SHOP
B-METRO’S
BEST PLAY of the city
CHELSEA ANTIQUES WORTH THE DRIVE TO CHELSEA Antiques • Gardens • Industrial Wedding Rental / Prophouse
B-METRO’S
BEST of the city
HOME
B-METRO’S
BEST
205-678-2151
www.chelseaantiques1.com
17-ALAC-0632
of the city
ARTS
B-METRO.COM 69
F0R THE HIPSTER AVONDALE
Avondale came seemingly out of nowhere, back from the dead so to speak, to surprise the city with its vibrancy and entertainment value. For years a place in decline, Avondale is now most assuredly on the rise with a host of dining and entertainment options along 41st Street (the old Spring Street running from the railroad tracks to Avondale Park). Check out Fancy’s and Melt, Avondale Brewing and Common House, as well as Satellite Coffee and Saturn music venue. Beyond the commercial area, you will find cottages and houses that have been lovingly restored. Photos: Make BHM, Satellite, Hot Diggity Dogs, Fancy’s and Melt.
70 CITY GUIDE 2017
YOU ARE LONGING TO HAVE A BABY, YOUR Proof That IFCHANCES MAY BE BETTER THAN YOU THINK. Miracles Really Happen
At Alabama Fertility Specialists, we can help make that dream a reality. Our fertility treatment success rates are among the highest in the nation, and our research has appeared in the world’s most prestigious journals. But high success rates are not all that we offer – we also give you the personalized attention that your complex problem deserves.
B Metro Magazine 7.25x4.5
To pursue your miracle, see the leaders in fertility care at
Alabama Fertility Specialists
MICHAEL P. STEINKAMPF, MD AND BETH A. MALIZIA, MD 2700 Highway 280 Suite 370 East, Birmingham, Alabama 35223 • (205) 874-0000 www.alabamafertility.com
Imagine your home, totally organized! Bedroom Closett
Walk in Closet | Brio Collection
Custom Closets Garage Cabinets Home Offices Pantries, Laundries and Hobby Rooms Garage Cabinets
40% Off
Free Installation Plus
40% off any order of $1000 or more. 30% off any order of $700 or more. On any Closet, Garage or Home Office. Not valid with any other offer. Free installation with any complete unit order of $500 or more. With incoming order, at time of purchase only. Expires in 30 days. Home Office | Brio Collection B-METRO’S
BEST EAT
2017 Š All Rights Reserved. Closets by Design, Inc.
of| Silver the Garage Cabinets ll city
B-METRO’S
BEST
of the city
SHOP
Call for a free in home design consultation and estimate
www.closetsbydesign.com Follow us
B-METRO’S
BEST
of the city
EXPLORE
B-METRO’S
BEST
of the city
B-METRO’S
BEST PLAY of the city
B-METRO’S
BEST
of the city
Licensed and Insured. Independently Owned and Operated.
B-METRO.COM 71
BME
YOUNG MT. BROOK CRESTLINE
A family place right in the heart of Mountain Brook. Here is a neighborhood that is welcoming, fun, friendly and walkable. From the tot lot to Emmet O’Neal Library to Church Street Coffee and Books, Crestline covers a lot of ground in the life of a family. And families are what you will find in this part of Mountain Brook, with young kids and pets everywhere. Along with classic retail shops that have been serving customers for generations to some of the city’s best neighborhood restaurants, Crestline is an extraordinary place. A classic car drives past the signature clock tower with La Paz restaurant in the background. Photos: Urban Cookhouse and Otey’s, Oak Street Garden Shop and Church Street Coffee and Books.
72 B-METRO.COM CITY GUIDE 2017
B-METRO’S
B-METRO’S
BEST
BEST EAT
of the city
of the city
SHOP
B-METRO’S
B-METRO’S
BEST PLAY
BEST
Open Mon.-Sat.10:00-5:00
of the city
of the city
EXPLORE
Hanna Antiques
27,000 Square Feet 100 Dealers 35 Show Cases B-METRO’S Rooms and rooms of antiques, curiosities and fun! 2424 7th Avenue South, Birmingham, AL 35233
B-METRO’S
BEST I 205- 323-6036 I www.hannaantiques.com of the city
SPEND TIME
ARTS
Background photo by Ginnard Archibald
HOME
BEST
of the city
BIG GUY Birmingham residents have perks... You can enjoy his daily view anytime you want.
“Your hair is 90% of your selfie.” -Todd Cargo
visitvulcan.com MUSEUM MON–SUN 10AM–6PM
OBSERVATION TOWER MON–SUN 10AM–10PM
Sanctuary 1931 29th Avenue South • Homewood,
Alabama, 35209 • 205-879-4757
HOURS: TUES 9AM-9PM THURS 9AM-7PM FRI 9AM-4PM SAT 9AM TO 4PM
sanctuarywebsite.com B-METRO.COM 73
MEET THE MILLENIALS DOWNTOWN
Downtown has emerged as one of Birmingham’s hottest neighborhoods with an incredible influx of new apartment buildings. The trend has totally revamped the area around Railroad Park and Regions Field and turned it into a true neighborhood with a number of apartment buildings already filling up and more on the way. The same trend brought renewal to the old Pizitz Department Store on 19th Street. This classic old building is now The Pizitz, home to one and two bedroom apartments with plenty of great amenities. An amenity for the entire city was the creation of The Pizitz Food Hall, which transformed the main selling floor of the old department store into an exciting and trendy food hall, offering the city cuisine as varied as Ethiopian and Italian, Asian to chicken and waffles. More apartments are in the works for the city, and dining and entertainment options continue to expand. The corridor of Second Avenue North has become one of the city’s premier dining and entertainment destinations with restaurants like Bamboo and El Barrio and bars like The Collins adding to the cosmopolitan mix. Along First Avenue North, The Wine Loft offers a sophisticated night out and even has a group of downtown dwellers meet up regularly for dinner and drinks. Nearby, The Atomic Lounge has a mid-century modern vibe, creative cocktails and a full range of costumes for patrons to indulge their more creative side while enjoying the evening. Uptown Birmingham near the BJCC is also a hot spot for dining with high-end restaurants like Cantina Laredo and Texas de Brazil bringing sophistication uptown. Photos: Top and bottom, costumed fun at The Atomic Lounge; exploring Uptown.
74 CITY GUIDE 2017
Three generations, one recipe since 1957— keeping the fire burning for 60 years.
% SUMMER DESIGNER OFF
SHOWCASE
2800 Cahaba Village Plaza | Birmingham, AL 35243
July 28th - 30th Hors d'oeuvres by: Avo Dram | Friday, 5:30 p.m. - 7:30 p.m. *Discount excludes certified diamonds and price protected lines. Cannot be combined with other offers.
B-METRO.COM 75
BHAM WHAT’S YOUR FAVORITE THING ABOUT
Kristen Landham Homewood
I left Birmingham for undergrad and found myself missing the people the most. No one here lets a door slam in your face.
James Alexander Highland Park
It has finally become a city rather than a racial battleground. Working together works for all of us. What we need now is a mass transit system that works. The new parks in and around the city provide new meeting locations for community development and city pride.
Leslie, Bob and Macey Robinson Mountain Brook
I love that Birmingham is such a friendly city. There are so many wonderful neighborhoods and we love meeting new people.
Carrington Glover Alabaster
Culture, history, close enough to many metro areas. 76 CITY GUIDE 2017
WE STOPPED BY THE SATURDAY MARKET AT PEPPER PLACE AND ASKED. WRITTEN AND PHOTOGRAPHED BY
KARIM SHAMSI-BASHA
Jaime Ritter Highland Park
Birmingham fosters new growth, whether it’s personal growth or growing a new business.
Aditi, Kalyani and Hiren Jani Highland Park
Birmingham is and always will be my home. I love that you can walk down the street and complete strangers will say “Hey,” like they’ve known you for years.
Dan Starnes Homewood
Convenience to restaurants, events, and things to do. A great small business community.
Vivian Virgil, Valerie Williams, and Lula Kelly Trussville Food and shopping.
B-METRO.COM 77
BHAM WHAT’S YOUR FAVORITE THING ABOUT
David Barry Homewood
Every time I think about moving, the ease of living here, coupled with exciting food, music, arts and culture scenes, keep me here.
Steve Higginbotham Southside The outdoor culture that has evolved. Bicycles, outdoor restaurants, festivals that get people together outside.
Julian, Michele, Abram and Juda Vestavia Hills The openness to diversity.
Lauren Nowak Homewood
Sense of community, support of music and arts in our school, and the best food in Alabama.
78 CITY GUIDE 2017
Sheila Atchison Mountain Brook Food and culture.
Cheryl Morgan Downtown
Auburn Urban Studio and the Rotary Trail.
WHAT’S YOUR FAVORITE THING ABOUT
BHAM? SHARE YOUR FAVORITE THINGS WITH US ON
B-METRO.COM 79
THIS IS MY
bIRMINGHAM LOCAL CELEBS DESCRIBE “THEIR” CITY. PHOTOGRAPHY BY
BEAU GUSTAFSON
Art Franklin morning anchor at WIAT’s CBS 42 Morning News with Art Franklin
B
irmingham hung out the welcome banner for awardwinning television journalist Art Franklin last year when he returned after 13 years away—missed but never forgotten. Franklin first made a name for himself locally at WBRC-TV6 starting in 1991, when he became the first African-American male to anchor in prime time. He left in 2003 to work as a military affairs correspondent for WAVYTV10 in Norfolk, Va. He later worked in the Atlanta market before returning to Birmingham, along the way writing a motivational book for young men, Give it All You Got: A Message to My Young Brothers. This is a slice of Art Franklin’s Birmingham.
What’s new: Returning after the years you were away, what one new specific place or event were you most excited to see? One of the many great things about Birmingham that I enjoyed prior to leaving was the city’s great music scene (including City Stages, the Birmingham Heritage Festival, a jazz club called On the Avenue, Ona Watson’s Southside jazz spot, the music sets upstairs at the French Quarters and even happy hour at Park
80 CITY GUIDE 2017
West on 1st Avenue North). I returned and they were all gone…non-existent. But then I learned about the Steel City Jazz Festival. This year just completed its fourth year. The line-up was phenomenal. Even in its infancy, organizers of the festival bring world-class artists to Birmingham, making the Steel City Jazz Festival unmatched by festivals that have been around for decades. So I was pleased beyond words describe to experience a music festival that was on level here in Birmingham. Add to that Railroad Park, Regions Field, The Birmingham Negro Southern Museum and Uptown, Avondale and upgrades to The Summit, not to mention the restaurants and retail in Homewood, and it was clear to me that Birmingham was really progressing. So, whatever excitement some may have about my return, I am equally if not more excited to be back in Birmingham. I’m truly proud of the city’s progress.
Local inspirations: You’ve been very involved in working with youth, including having served as chairman of the Birmingham Youth Advisory Committee Commission, starting a program called U-TURN to help youthful offenders turn their lives around and writing a
book, Give It All You Got: A Message to My Young Brothers. Who in Birmingham helps (or has helped) to inspire you? I was motivated by the fact that I always believed that it was incumbent upon me to use whatever celebrity was attached to me to reach those in need. I knew early on that I was standing on the shoulders of so many others who paved the way for me to be a journalist in this city. Therefore, I had to dedicate myself to trying to make a difference. There were people that I learned from such as the late Fred L. Shuttlesworth and was fortunate enough to pick his brain, and former Birmingham Mayor Richard Arrington Jr. who was responsive to my inquiries as a journalist whether the stories were positive or negative, and because of that I had respect for him. As I worked with youth in the city I found people willing to help such as Judge Sandra Storm Ross, Judge Raymond Chambliss and a youth detention probation officer named Willie Brown. Even principals at schools such as the late Charles Warren at Ensley High School encouraged me and motivated me to do what I could because they too believed in our youth. I felt like I could make a difference because others were in the battle with me. Perhaps the biggest accomplishment was when I created the
Kids and Jobs program through my previous Birmingham television employer in partnership with public and private collaboration. The program brought a community together to provide summer employment and hope for Birmingham youth. Now, I run into young men who benefitted from that program and my work with gangs who put a smile on my face and peace in my heart that it was not work done in vain.
Favorite landmarks: As a journalist, you’re familiar with just about all the different neighborhoods, landscapes and landmarks. Do you have a favorite view or landmark of your own?
Vulcan stands out, not only because it is the largest cast iron statue in the world but also because of the way Vulcan looks over the Magic City from Red Mountain and seems to protect it. Vulcan provides a stunning view of Southside and downtown.
Favorite restaurant: What restaurant do you always make a point of taking out-of-town visitors?
Highlands Bar and Grill is a no-brainer, when you can get in. But now Perry’s Steak House has become a go-to restaurant for me for food and atmosphere. But when it is plain good ole’ Southern cooking, I take out-of-towners to Niki’s West. It feels like “Cheers” when I go there. Many of the same faces greet me with warmth and they know what I like. You can’t miss with Niki’s West for good food and good conversation in a nice relaxed atmosphere where just about everyone knows your name. B-METRO.COM 81
Charles Buchanan editor of UAB Magazine pleasure, what’s your favorite local place to look for interesting reading material—or just a favorite place to sit and read?
A
native of Selma who has served the University of Alabama at Birmingham for years in different editorial capacities— currently as editor of UAB Magazine— Charles Buchanan is also an artist and author whose accomplishments include a 2012 book, The Fading Ads of Birmingham, featuring fading advertisements on the walls of Birmingham buildings. He is also a husband, father, and most importantly for this context, a man who knows the city well. Here are a few of Buchanan’s Birmingham highlights.
Favorite place to read: You have a demanding editorial job, so when you have time to read for 82 CITY GUIDE 2017
out of my way to drive her through them because they make her so happy.
Best eats: What’s your favorite date-night restaurant?
I love going to the library. We have a gem of a library system in BirminghamJefferson County (though the downtown branch needs renovation badly), and every time I walk in, I’m excited by what I might discover on the shelves. When I was researching and writing my book, Fading Ads of Birmingham, I spent a lot of time in the Linn-Henley Research Library, a beautiful, mural-lined building packed with resources on local and regional history. It was an inspiring environment.
All of them? Answering that question is like choosing a favorite child. This city overflows with delectable dining options. We loved Ollie Irene and continue to love Bottega and the Hot & Hot Fish Club chef’s counter. But our current favorite escape is the Pizitz Food Hall, where we can follow an Ono Poke ahi tuna bowl or Busy Corner cheese plate with the decadence of Lichita’s banana split. (Favorite ice cream choices for our splits: burnt milk and pina colada.)
Inspiring local artists: You’re also a highly respected artist. Can you tell us what local artist(s) have most inspired you?
Favorite outdoor space: What’s your favorite park, walking/biking trail or other outdoor space in Birmingham?
Birmingham has a lot of talented artists. Among my favorites are Debra Riffe, who makes powerful block prints, and Bethanne Hill, painter of energetic Southern scenes. Doug Baulos is good at everything—drawing, book arts, ceramics, installations, you name it. And I still haven’t figured out how Chiharu Roach creates her delicate portraits of girls intricately intertwined with animals. I look up to all of these artists. Their work challenges me to expand my artistic horizons and improve my pieces. Fortunately, many Birmingham artists are generous when it comes to sharing what they’ve learned. We’re lucky to live in a creative community like that.
Best family time: You’re the father of a three-year-old. What’s your favorite place in Birmingham to take your daughter? We all love going to the Birmingham Zoo. I’m not sure who got more excited the day we fed the giraffes. (I think it was me.) But if she had her way, I think we would spend all day driving round and round through the color tunnels connecting downtown and Southside. I’ll go
Railroad Park rockets to the top of the list because my wife and I had our first date there the day it opened. I enjoy watching how the park has changed, with the trees getting bigger, the landscaping growing more lush, the arrival of ducks, and so forth. It also provides a great vantage point on a changing city. When I’m there, I’m usually looking at the downtown buildings and the industrial architecture surrounding the park. Our daughter loves the park because she has space to run, trains to watch, and a climbing dome to conquer.
Inside knowledge: Favorite bit of Birmingham trivia? In early decades of the 20th century, Birmingham was home to a ton of homegrown soft drink companies—producing more brands of beverages than any other city in America in 1920, according to a history I read. They had some goofy names: Nervola, Gleeola, Rye-Ola, OzoOlo, Nifty Cola, Cola-Nip, and Celery Cola among them. Can you imagine how Celery Cola tasted? Buffalo Rock ginger ale and Grapico (which originated in New Orleans) are the only local brands that remain from that era.
Dining Out with Dr. Jack Schaeffer
D
r. Jack Schaeffer, president and CEO of Schaeffer Eye Centers, is a man of impeccable taste and enthusiasm for all things culinary in Birmingham. “We are so fortunate in Birmingham to have amazing choice, quality and atmosphere in our restaurants here,” Schaeffer says. “There is really no way to pick the best, as you can go out and have dinner for 30 nights without ever going to the same place twice. Whether you walk around Crestline or Mountain Brook Village and stop at one of the great restaurants there, head over to Lakeview or Pepper Place, into the new and vibrant scene downtown, or visit one of our true landmark restaurants on Southside, we are becoming a city of cool, lively areas to enjoy food, fun and libation.”
Here are a few of his favorite suggestions. BEST DINNER: Highlands Bar & Grill, Bottega BEST LUNCH: Bottega Café, Daniel George BEST-KEPT SECRET: Satterfield’s Restaurant BEST NEW RESTAURANT: Roots & Revelry BEST DOWNTOWN TRADITION: Café Dupont BEST WINE DINNER: Gianmarco’s BEST APPETIZERS: Hot & Hot Fish Club BEST STEAKS: Fleming’s Prime Steakhouse & Bar, Shula’s Steak House, Perry’s Steakhouse & Grille BEST MEXICAN: iCantina BEST RIBS: Full Moon BBQ BEST SEAFOOD: Ocean, Fish Market BEST SUSHI: Jinsei BEST PIZZA: Slice BEST NEW TREND THAT’S HERE TO STAY: Any food truck BEST PEOPLE WATCHING: Bamboo on 2nd BEST PLACE TO EAT OUTDOORS: Bottega Café BEST PLACE FOR DINNER MEETINGS: Galley & Garden, Ocean BEST PLACE FOR A SPECIAL DATE: Hot & Hot Fish Club BEST SATURDAY BRUNCH: El Barrio BEST SUNDAY BRUNCH: Trattoria Centrale, Rojo, Dyron’s Lowcountry Restaurant BEST SOUTHSIDE TRADITION: Lou’s Pub BEST HAPPY HOUR: Dram Whiskey Bar (for a drink before dinner at Avo downstairs) BEST ROOFTOP BAR AND RESTAURANT: Habitat Feed & Social at The Grand Bohemian Hotel BEST LATE-NIGHT COCKTAILS: The Marble Ring, The Collins, Atomic Bar & Lounge BEST BARTENDER: “I couldn’t begin to start talking about the many great bartenders in Birmingham, so I won’t even try to pick the best. Let’s just say cheers to all the mixologists and take good care of them—they deserve it!”
B-METRO.COM 83
Gigi Douban news director for public radio WBHM 90.3 / WSGN
G
igi Douban was named news director for public radio WBHM 90.3 / WSGN in 2016, but she’s been reporting for public radio since 2006. You’ve heard her reporting on Studio 360, Public Radio International’s The World, and Marketplace. Meanwhile, Douban is also a prolific writer, having contributed to the likes of Bloomberg News and Runner’s World, among others. This is Douban’s Birmingham.
foods (I am a junkie). But back then I was a fan of Niki’s West. The fried green tomatoes and that cornbread. Wow. I learned to be ready with my order quickly. If you’ve gone you know what I mean. And I was blown away by the snapper throats at The Bright Star. They’re delicious. Plus, I love saying “snapper throats.” Now I’m still wowed by El Barrio. We haven’t tried everything on the menu, but they’ve yet to disappoint. The winner for food and atmosphere. Aside from that, any of the taco trucks in town are always a win.
Favorite restaurants, then and now: When you first got to Birmingham, what was the first restaurant that really blew you away?
Most interesting people you’ve met: Who has been the most interesting or inspiring or unexpected local character that you’ve “met,” either in person or by way of a story one of your reporters has filed for WBHM?
I moved here 20 years ago, and back then there wasn’t near as much as there is now, definitely not in the way of spicy
Oh my gosh, so many. Probably the first one that comes to mind is The Great Kaiser, a towering former wrestler who is now in his ‘70s. He still lifts weights at the JCC and wears this utterly amazing leopardprint weight belt. You know you want one. I
also got to interview E.O. Wilson once. Not only is he brilliant, but he’s incredibly down to earth, and he has this gentle smile that just makes you melt. But through my job, I get to meet so many inspiring people. I once interviewed a Trump supporter here who, whatever your politics are, just made me think more about the challenges many Americans are facing day to day. He works two jobs, as a firefighter and an auto body tech. He’s in his ‘50s and puts in about 70 hours a week to make ends meet living a very modest lifestyle. And he’s getting older and starting to feel it. He worries about health care and retirement. He worries about being able to take his wife on one vacation a year, about being able to afford two reliable cars to get them where they need to go. Getting to meet folks like him made it clear to me that we all need to get out of our bubbles and listen to what others have to say and understand the real-life struggles they face.
Best place to run: As a runner and a contributor to Runner’s World, what’s your favorite place to run in Birmingham? Any trail is great. There’s something about running where there are lots of trees around. And I love the crunch of gravel underneath my feet, or soft dirt. If I don’t have much time, I’ll head to Jemison Trail or the Shades Creek Greenway. But running somewhere like Red Mountain Park or Ruffner Mountain, time just flies.
Favorite night out on the town: What’s your idea of a great night out on the town in Birmingham— totally open ended depending on your tastes. Could be a specific music venue; theatre; late-night bookstore; wine bar…? Do we have a late-night bookstore? We need one! Ideally catch a live music show at Saturn or Iron City. I’m really happy Birmingham has become a destination for great artists on tour. Ideally we hit Paramount at some point. Three words: Skee-ball challenge accepted. 84 CITY GUIDE 2017
Kathleen Hamrick director of marketing and education at Innovation Depot and member of the organizing committee of TEDxBirmingham. open to a very long wait—and they have the best spicy margaritas in town.
Great running trails: You also have one of the most impressive lists of extracurricular activities we’ve seen on any resume— including being a sponsored expedition athlete. Birmingham might not be able to compete with a run through the Amazon, but can you name your favorite running spot here at home? I love runs at Red Mountain Park. Gorgeous trails, and the park is close to home.
Where adventure lies: What else constitutes a cool adventure for you in Birmingham?
If I’m not working or running, my favorite thing to do in Birmingham is fly single-engine prop planes at the Birmingham Flight Center. With only about 15 hours in the plane and 20 in the books, I’m a beginner—but that’s enough to take off and land. There have been a few times I’ve shown up to the flight center and flown a Cessna 152 in a dress and stiletto pumps.
A
n Alabama native, Kathleen Hamrick is director of marketing and education at Innovation Depot and a member of the organizing committee of TEDxBirmingham. A woman of diverse interests, she is also a runner and adventurer who has run through the Amazon rainforest and occasionally flies singleengine prop planes at the Birmingham Flight Center. This is Hamrick’s Birmingham.
Best power lunch: As director of marketing for Innovation Depot, you’re at the core of Birmingham’s entrepreneurial and innovation-minded community.
What are your favorite powerlunch spots in Birmingham? Power is making your guests feel welcome and comfortable. I’m usually working through lunch, but have some favorite dinner spots! I love Bettola for Italian. The food is tasty, drinks are fantastic, the service is wonderful, and you can hear your guests speak. They take reservations and there’s usually not an absurdly long wait for a table on weekends. OvenBird is another of my favorites. It’s the ideal spot for small plates. The flavors are incredible, and the service is super. The renowned owner, Chris Hastings, can often be found engaged in conversation with guests, making them feel welcome. El Barrio is great for Mexican if you’re
Your Birmingham sales pitch: If they asked, what would be at the core of your pitch to young people like yourselves considering locating Birmingham to launch a business? It’s not location that builds a great company. Great people build great companies. Birmingham has devoted a ton of resources into growing the tech ecosystem. Efforts like Innovate Birmingham are helping to build a strong tech workforce in the region. Software developers are in high demand in lots of places around the nation, and in the years to come, Birmingham will have an abundant talent supply. For those who seek the highly coveted seed funding to grow a startup, Innovation Depot’s Velocity Accelerator is a source for those funds and for incredible mentorship needed to build and grow a business. B-METRO.COM 85
Michael S. Saag, M.D., medical pioneer in the field of HIV research
M
ichael S. Saag, M.D., is the founding director of the University of Alabama at Birmingham 1917 Clinic, which has pioneered treatment programs based on real world clinical trials and studies focused on quality improvement in the area of HIV. He also serves as the Associate Dean for Global Health in the UAB School of Medicine, Director of the UAB Center for AIDS Research and a Professor of Medicine in the Division of Infectious Diseases. He is the principal investigator of the CFAR Network of Integrated Clinical Systems (CNICS), an NIAID-funded National Network of EMR-collected clinical data at 8 CFAR centers that are merged for the purposes of clinical research. In 2014 he published a book, Positive: One Doctor’s Encounters with Death, Life, and the U.S. Healthcare System, a memoir about the AIDS epidemic in the South and a manifesto about healthcare delivery in the United States, now in its second edition. This is what says “Birmingham” to Saag.
Favorite local icon: Given the leading roles you play with national and international medical organizations in your field, I’m sure you travel quite a bit. So for someone who’s traveled the globe, what do you consider the icon/physical attribute that truly makes Birmingham unique? Vulcan. For anyone who’s been to Birmingham, a single picture of the statue of Vulcan sitting atop Red Mountain defines the location as Birmingham. Much like the leaning tower in Pisa, the Golden Gate Bridge in San Francisco, the Empire State Building in New York City, or the Eiffel Tower in Paris, Vulcan defines Birmingham. This extends beyond the physical identity to a spiritual one. Vulcan, who is the is the god of fire, embodies metalworking and the forge in ancient Rome. The statue of Vulcan reflects Birmingham’s rich history in steel production, but moreso represents the 86 CITY GUIDE 2017
passion and fire that resides within the people who live here, especially when it comes to college football!
Best restaurant: What is your favorite restaurant in Birmingham to unwind? Within the rapidly emerging culinary scene in Birmingham, there is no single restaurant or eatery, but rather any one of several dozen places that serve a wide variety of food and drink, ranging from fine dining (Highlands, Hot and Hot, Bottega, Satterfield’s) to the newly established ‘joints’ in Avondale or the North Side of the city. In each case I find nurturing environments to meet with friends and family, engage in lively conversation, and share great food. This is a fantastic way to unwind.
Favorite guilty pleasure: What is your favorite place in Birmingham for a guilty pleasure, whatever it might be? The Alys Stephens Center. While not necessarily a ‘guilty’ pleasure, listening to performances by the ASO and from a wide range of local and visiting artists is joyful. The acoustics in each of the venues of the ASC are pure, allowing the performances to transport the audience to new places and dimensions. It doesn’t get much better than that.
Place to see compassion at work: You’ve been a pioneer in HIV research since the days when a lot of people were less than compassionate towards those with the disease. How do you define compassion—and where do you see it in Birmingham? A practical definition of compassion is treating others as if they are close family members. I see it in every colleague and staff member with whom I work
in the UAB 1917 Clinic, a true medical ‘home’ where each patient is treated as family, regardless of their socioeconomic status, race, gender, sexual orientation, residence, religion or absence thereof. I see compassion in the LGBTQ community, who embrace diversity and provide unconditional acceptance of those who are different…almost certainly because they have struggled themselves for compassion and acceptance from the community at large. I see compassion among some in the traditional religious communities, but have been disappointed (more than I care to recall) among others who profess strong beliefs in God but who fail to ‘walk the walk’ when confronted with those who are different. This has been perhaps my biggest disappointment in our community. I’d love to see us collectively improve in our acceptance of those who are different than ourselves and embrace them as our own. Then we will truly become a great community!
Ronnie Rice, Ph.D., firm administrator for Alexander Shunnarah Personal Injury Attorneys
R
onnie Rice, Ph.D., firm administrator for Alexander Shunnarah Personal Injury Attorneys, grew up in Prichard, Ala., earned his bachelor’s degree from Morehouse Colllege in Atlanta, master’s and doctorate of philosophy from Regent University in Virginia Beach, Va. and his law degree from Miles School of Law, where he serves as president of the National Black Law Student Association. Rice is also involved in speaking to youth, likes to run and loves spending time with his young daughter, Chloe. This is what Rice loves about Birmingham.
Local point of pride: Looking at some of the hardships and negativity you overcame to get to where you are, it’s reminiscent in some ways of Birmingham itself and the obstacles it has worked to overcome. Is there favorite tangible building, project, park, whatever it is, that you can look at and consider a favorite point of pride in Birmingham?
Favorite places to run: You love to run. What are your favorite places in Birmingham (on- or off-trail?) My passion for running started in junior high and high school. I was actually the slowest runner, but I always loved it. My favorite places to run are Lifetime Fitness in Vestavia, the Rotary Trail, and the Samford University track and soccer field.
Favorite daddy-daughter hangout: You also have a four-year-old daughter. What is your favorite Daddy-Chloe hangout?
The Birmingham area is very familyfriendly, which is fantastic for my fouryear-old daughter Chloe. We love to eat and read books, so our favorite hangout is Church Street Coffee and Books in Crestline Village.
Best people watching: What’s your favorite restaurant for people watching? My favorite restaurants for people watching are Roots and Revelry, anything in the Pizitz Food Hall, and Taj India. I follow a vegan diet, and therefore can only go to certain places. These restaurants offer great vegan options and casual social atmospheres.
Where you love to shop: Where is your favorite place to shop for clothes? With my schedule, I find it difficult to shop for clothes in-store. However, due to the great customer service, (I shop at) Alexander Eaton (2018 11th Avenue South), Alchemy 213 (217 20th Street North), and Shaia’s (Homewood).
I fall more in love with the Birmingham area every day. It’s inspiring to witness and experience the city’s revitalization, especially as the community comes together to celebrate the restoration of historic buildings like the Pizitz and the addition of job-creating industries like Regions Field. Points of pride for me are the Rotary Trail and the downtown area. During the summer, I frequently walk from my office at Alexander Shunnarah Personal Injury Attorneys on 1st Avenue South to Birmingham Barons baseball games. I also regularly visit downtown restaurants and bars. My favorite spots are Roots and Revelry, 1st and 23rd, and the Pizitz Food Hall. B-METRO.COM 87
Jessica Merlin, physician at UAB and Scott Doty, industrial designer
J
essica Merlin, a physician at UAB, and Scott Doty, an industrial designer who designs kitchen gadgets, electronics, and other housewares, met in 2001 and got married in 2007. They share a love for thrift shopping and collecting—especially mid-century modern furniture—along with traveling, hiking and exercising in general. They also run the popular website www.whattoeatinbirmingham, and though they’re moving to Pittsburgh for Jessica’s work at the end of July and putting their blog in the capable hands of Erin Shaw Street, they took a moment to look back over some of their favorites in Birmingham. Here is Birmingham according to to Merlin and Doty.
What says “Birmingham” best: You moved here from Manhattan. After coming to Birmingham, what was your favorite Birmingham sight—a particular landscape, neighborhood, sculpture/symbol, etc.—that said to you, “We’re not in New York anymore”? Right after we moved here, our washing machine died. We went to a big box store to shop for a new one and ended up spending an hour talking to the salesman. Not about laundry machines, but about our recent move, my new job, and of course, Birmingham. This type of genuine interest in making personal connections regardless of where you are or what you are doing really stands out to us about living in Birmingham. It’s something that’s helped us build our blog—we’ve developed relationships with chefs, restau-
88 CITY GUIDE 2017
rant owners, front of house staff, back of house staff, you name it.
Best farmers market: Writing about food for your website, whattoeatinbirmingham.com, is one of your passions. A lot of it’s about restaurants, but you’ve written about other food-related discoveries as well. What’s one of your favorite farmers markets? We met Kristen Farmer Hall, owner of Feast and Forest and Baking Bandits, before we moved to Birmingham. Especially early on, she was our guide to all things cool in Birmingham. Our first weekend here, she took us to Pepper Place. We met folks there that first day who became our friends. And over the years not only have we seen Pepper Place
grow, but we have seen friends including Kristen start out with small booths at Pepper Place on their way to having pop-ups and brick and mortar stores. For all these reasons, Pepper Place has always been a special place to us.
The iconic Birmingham dish: What’s your favorite iconic Birmingham dish—the one everyone must try at least once?
The cumin ribs at Great Wall. We’ve blogged about Great Wall’s fantastic Schezuan cuisine, including this dish. We recently ate our way through the Chinatown area of Flushing, Queens and had a chance to try the wellknown cumin lamb at Xi’an Famous Foods. Great Wall’s cumin ribs, which are pork, reminded us so much of this dish. And in a rib town, we love eating these authentic Chinese ribs. It’s a good example of Birmingham’s outstanding ethnically diverse food scene and a great thing for those who have never had authentic Chinese dishes to start with.
Where to buy kitchen supplies: What’s your favorite place to shop for kitchen supplies? Since Mr. Foodie (Scott) designs kitchen gadgets professionally, even though we don’t cook as much as we would like since we are always out blogging, we have a ton of cool kitchen gadget samples in our house all the time. As far as brick and mortar stores: Bresco Restaurant Supply in the Lakeview area. Mr. Foodie finds the industrial simplicity of professional tools to be really inspiring.
NOW OPEN
B-METRO’S
BEST EAT of the city
B-METRO’S
BEST
of the city
EXPLORE
B-METRO’S
BEST
of the city
SHOP
B-METRO’S
BEST PLAY of the city
DZ_Logo_FullColor_Horizontal.eps B-METRO’S
BEST of the city
B-METRO’S
BEST
of the city
ARTS
HOME CREATE YOUR EXPERIENCE DZ_Logo_FullColor_Horizontal.eps
Design Zone is a highly interactive, hands-on exhibit where visitors can explore a variety of creative concepts to learn the processes and tools needed to create successful design. PRESENTED BY
WWW.MCWANE.ORG
B-METRO.COM 89
PRESENTS
cutest baby contest
Vote for the CUTEST baby! Vote for the cutest baby in rounds by clicking “like” on the photo(s) of their choice. Each round will be open for voting for one week.
cutest baby contest The top photo from each week will win a family pack of four tickets to Dollywood.
PRESENTS
The photo that receives the most “likes” overall will be named “B-Metro’s Cutest Baby” and will be in an upcoming issue of B-Metro magazine and win a family pack of four tickets to Dollywood as well as a $250 gift certificate to Storkland.
July 10- August 7
Vote at facebook.com/bmetromagazine 90 CITY GUIDE 2017
Storkland A Land of Fine Baby & Youth Furniture
SPECIAL PROMOTION
B-METRO.COM 91
SPECIAL PROMOTION
Positive Maturity Retired and Senior Volunteer Program RSVP offers individuals age 55 and over rewarding service opportunities in their communities. Whether volunteers wish to draw on current skills or develop new ones, RSVP provides meaningful experiences by allowing individuals to help others in a flexible and engaging environment.
Dear Top 50 Over 50 Recipients and Guests, Welcome to our fourth annual Top 50 Over 50® Awards ceremony! On behalf of Positive Maturity’s Board of Directors and staff, we extend our congratulations to the class of 2017. The Top 50 Over 50® award was created in 2014 to recognize individuals over the age of 50 who have made significant contributions to their communities either through business, civic engagement or lifetime achievements. We hope through these awards we will inspire others to be proud of all they have accomplished in their lifetime and then go out and be the change they want to see in this world. We also want to take this opportunity to thank our sponsors: Regions Bank, ACIPCO, Alacare, Evolutia, Lynn Campisi and the City of Birmingham. A special thanks to Sara Walker, our photographer, who donated her time and took some amazing pictures. Since 1972, Positive Maturity has been the fabric of the senior communities in Blount, Jefferson, Shelby and Walker Counties. We are a proud partner of the United Way of Central Alabama and a sponsor for the Corporation for National and Community Services’ Senior Corps Programs. Our mission is to positively enhance and empower the lives of older adults through social services and civic engagement. Programs include the Retired and Senior Volunteers, AWARE (Aging Workers Are Reliable Employees), Foster Grandparents, Senior Companions, Shepherd Center East and Geriatric Social Work. Thank you again for supporting tonight’s event, and we hope to see you again next year!
Penny Kakoliris Executive Director Positive Maturity, Inc. 92 CITY GUIDE 2017
2
2017 Top 50 Over 50
Aging Workers Are Reliable Employees AWARE is a career counseling program designed for clients age 50 and over who are unemployed or underemployed. Resume writing, interview skills, and computer training are some of the services available to help senior adults compete in today’s job market. Foster Grandparents Program The Foster Grandparents Program provides stipend volunteer opportunities for low income adults age 55 and older who are able to meet the eligibility requirements. Foster Grandparents work with children in Jefferson County who are deemed “at-risk”, serving as role models, mentors, tutors and friends. Senior Companion Program The Senior Companion Program provides stipend volunteer opportunities for low income adults age 55 and older who are able to meet the eligibility requirements. Senior Companions are assigned to frail seniors and adults with disabilities in Jefferson County to assist their efforts in maintaining their independence. They are also able to provide respite services for families in need. Shepherd Center East Shepherd Center East is a nutrition site offering free hot lunches Monday-Friday (for adults who meet the eligibility requirements). It is a Meals on Wheels distributor and activity center for adults age 55 and older. Activities include, but are not limited to, exercise classes, health education, arts and crafts, quilting, dance, field trips and computer classes. Geriatric Social Services Our in-house Geriatric Social Worker enriches the quality of life for older individuals. The program provides support services, case management, education and awareness, and referrals. It links clients and their families to community resources and preserves the client’s dignity and independence. Photography: Sara Walker Photography Creative Design: Keith Dunn Editor: Tina Savas
www.positivematurity.org
SPECIAL PROMOTION
William M. Miller Award Recipient
Brenda Ladun “Never give in...never give in…never give in.” Winston Churchill
Brenda grew up in Pennsylvania where she had an opportunity to learn about broadcast journalism from her school’s closed-circuit television station. She graduated from the University of South Florida with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Mass Communications. She moved to Peoria, Illinois for five years before coming to Birmingham. Brenda worked at WBRC 6 from 1987 to 1996 before joining the staff at ABC 33/40. She is a five-time winner of the Alabama Associated Press Awards for Best Investigative Reporter and Best Specialized Reporter. She has also won Best Anchor. In 2001, Brenda was diagnosed with breast cancer. She had a double mastectomy and underwent chemotherapy. During her recovery, she took up running and has competed in several marathons. In 2004, she founded the Brenda Ladun Conquer Cancer run, an annual event that has raised almost one million dollars for the American Cancer Society. After a period of apparent remission, the cancer returned in 2007. Brenda points to her faith as the foundation of her strength to fight the disease, and she speaks to groups and encourages others going through cancer. She is a regional spokeswoman for the Susan G. Komen Breast Cancer Foundation and has written three books about her recovery. For a special series she aired about breast cancer, she was given the Edward R. Murrow Award for Radio and Television Journalism. Brenda has three sons, Brooks, Gabby and Garett. She serves as Auxiliary President of the Grace House Christian Home for Girls, helps raise money for the Bruno Cancer Center, and teaches Sunday school at Hunter Street Baptist Church. www.top50over50.com
2017 Top 50 Over 50
3
SPECIAL PROMOTION
Barbara S. Allen
Glyn Agnew “Do your best and have fun.” As a Regional Director of AT&T Alabama Legislative and External Affairs, Glyn works with business, civic, and public officials to improve the quality of life in our communities. Additionally, he is the coordinator of the annual Alabama African American History Calendar, a resource tool used by the Alabama Department of Education. During his 34-years with AT&T, Glyn has held such positions as Director of Sales and Director of Strategic Initiatives and Performance Management. He has served on several boards and committees including Girls, Inc., Birmingham Civil Rights Institute, Birmingham Urban League, United Way, and the AT&T Pioneers. He has received several awards including the President’s Volunteer Service Award.
Barbara S. Allen is a native of Birmingham and retired from Birmingham City Schools. She served as Interim Superintendent, Chief of Staff, Director of Career/Technical Education, Program Specialist Business Education, Teacher and Secretary. An active member of the Pleasant Grove Baptist Church-Fairfield, she serves as chairperson of the Trustees, Coordinator of the Tutoring Ministry, and many other ministries. Her volunteer work includes: Meals on Wheels, AARP, Holy Family Cristo Rey High School, Voter Registration, Read Across America, Dr. Seuss Day, Huffman High School Youth Summit, Virginia Samford Theatre, Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, and President of Tri-County Chapter of Links, Inc.
“Whatever you do, work heartily, as for the Lord and not for men.” -Colossians 3:23
Fairy Allred “Make all you can, save all you can, give all you can.” Fairy Allred worked for Positive Maturity for over 30 years and now is retired. The Retired Senior Volunteer Program in Blount County is a viable asset to that community because of her hard work. She never gave up and never took no for an answer! She believed in that program and it paid off well. Fairy’s hobbies are her family…she loves spending time with her two boys and their families.
4
2017 Top 50 Over 50
www.positivematurity.org
SPECIAL PROMOTION
Mayor William B. Bell
William is the 33rd Mayor of the City of Birmingham. His political career spans over 30 years. Since his election, the city has received numerous accolades including “All-American City” and was named “Best City in America” in 2014 by Movoto. Economic development includes a return of the Birmingham Barons to the new Regions Field; the Crossplex; the US Treasury building; the Uptown District; the expansion of the Summit; and construction of Grandview Hospital. William is a Founder and Past President of 100 Black Men, member of Kappa Alpha Psi, Rotary, Leadership Alabama and First Tee Program, to name a few. He received the Boy Scouts of America Silver Beaver Award; was named Government Person of the Year by the National Business League and voted one of the Ten Most Influential Leaders in Birmingham. He is married to Dr. Sharon C. Bell. They have two children: Judge William Anthony Bell, Jr. and Jillian Bell.
Pastor Robert C. Bearden, III “Every day is a good day when you know the Lord.” Called by God in 1986, Pastor Bearden was gifted to preach and teach the Word. His gifts and talents for preaching, teaching, and lecturing have taken him to schools, churches, and conferences across the United States and other countries. His love for God is evident to all who meet him. He has a particular love for the youth of the Church and strives to insure that they are prepared for the future by supporting them in all areas, including school and activities, but most of all, in acquiring the knowledge of Christ in their lives.
Mark G. Bearman, MD “In my experience, the harder you work, the luckier you get.” Dr. Bearman has been practicing ophthalmology since 1989 and currently serves as Medical Director at VisionFirst Eye Center. He has performed more than 10,000 cataract surgeries. He was one of the first surgeons in Birmingham to use the ReSTOR lens, as well as one of the first to perform cataract surgery using the LENSx. His dedication and unique home-like demeanor make his patients feel like members of his family. With his passion for the latest technology, the sophisticated expertise of a refractive eye surgeon and extensive experience with the most advanced lasers, Dr. Bearman helps his patients achieve the best vision possible. www.top50over50.com
2017 Top 50 Over 50
5
SPECIAL PROMOTION
Sheila Benson “To thrive in life you need three bones - a wishbone, a backbone and a funny bone.” -Reba McEntire Founding her first business at age 24, Sheila successfully sold that company as well as two other title insurance companies she founded. In the process, she recognized the opportunity to work with clients to manage their hiring risk through background screening of potential employees. Today, her company, Employment Screening Services, has reached a new level of national competitiveness that boasts inclusion on the Inc. 5000 list for nine consecutive years. In 2015, Sheila was recognized nationally as a finalist for the EY Entrepreneur of the Year Award, and locally was recognized as the 2014 CEO of the Year by the Birmingham Business Journal.
Deepa Bhate Deepa Bhate, CEO and founder of Birmingham’s Building & Earth Sciences, exemplifies success for both immigrants and females in America. She grew up in a small town in India with tigers often at her gate. She came to America determined to apply her values, ethics and will to succeed. Consequently, she grew her Alabama company of four employees in 1999 to 200 employees in 2017 in 11 states. In 2016, she was named one of AL.com’s Top 100 Women Who Shape the State. She is a devoted wife, mother, friend, neighbor and employer. She is also a lot of fun!
Lisa Borden “The time is always right to do right.” -Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.
Lisa Borden oversees the pro bono work of almost 900 lawyers at Baker Donelson, providing free legal representation for the homeless, death row prisoners, prisoners with mental illness, and other low income people. Her pro bono legal work also includes representation of the homeless with the firm’s Homeless Experience Legal Protection program. She serves as chair of the Alabama Supreme Court’s Access to Justice Commission and is a member of the Board of the Lawyers Committee for Civil Rights. She is past-president of the Board of Directors of the Birmingham Volunteer Lawyers Program and also served on the Legal Aid Society Board. 6
2017 Top 50 Over 50
www.positivematurity.org
SPECIAL PROMOTION
Judge Houston L. Brown “A man ain’t nothing but a man.” Judge Brown was born in Birmingham and completed his education in the city’s public schools. He earned the Bachelor of Arts degree from Talladega College with a major in Economics and was the first African-American to enroll in and complete the full course of study, earning a J.D. degree from the Cumberland School of Law. He had a successful law career for 27 years prior to being appointed as a Circuit Judge in the Civil Division of Jefferson County. In 2013, he was unanimously elected as the first African-American Presiding Judge of the Tenth Judicial Circuit of Alabama where he served until his retirement. Judge Brown is married to Betty Winston Brown.
Peter Bosworth “If you can keep your head when all about you are losing theirs.” -Rudyard Kipling Peter moved to Birmingham after a 20-year career in the Royal Navy. As Program Director of the UAB Geriatric Education Center, and now the Office of Interprofessional Curriculum, he has been involved in the implementation of several Interprofessional and Community Education programs. Peter is a member of Pack 326 and Troop 226 in Hoover, and for the last five years, he has been Vulcan District Commissioner. He has also served on the board of the Girl Scouts of North Central Alabama. With his wife Ilean, he is the co-chair of fundraising for the Helena High School Band Boosters.
Jane Childers “Live for today - yesterday’s gone tomorrow is yet to come!” Jane was born in Gadsden and resides in Snead, Alabama. She spent her career with V.F. Jeans Wear and retired in 2000. That was when she was asked to lend a hand as a volunteer delivering homebound meals for the Snead Senior Center. Next, she was asked to manage the program, which she has been faithfully doing for the last nine years. She is very hands-on and carries the homebound to their doctors’ appointments, beauty shops and drug stores. She has one daughter, Cindy LeMaster, a granddaughter and two great grandchildren, all in north Alabama. www.top50over50.com
2017 Top 50 Over 50
7
SPECIAL PROMOTION
Kathleen Claybrook “In riding a horse we borrow freedom!” Kathleen Claybrook grew up with a love for horses and helping others, so Special Equestrians was a perfect fit when she went looking for a place to volunteer 30 years ago. As Executive Director since 1993, she has helped the program grow to serving over 100 riders with special needs each week! “Kathi” is an Instructor and Mentor through PATH International and serves on the Health and Education committee. Passionate about sharing her love of horses, her favorite moment is watching as smiles light up the faces of her special needs students when they experience the freedom and empowerment that comes from riding a horse.
Fay Crawford Fay was a member of the United States Nurse Cadet Corps during World War II and is memorialized at the World War II memorial in Washington. She continues to keep her license updated and is the oldest registered nurse in Alabama. Fay is a true historian and has been recognized by the Jefferson County Historical Society for her voluminous work. She is the official historian for her church, Mt. Calvary Presbyterian, which is 210 years old. She is a founding member of the Clay Historical Society and has documented the history of the Clay School, the Mt. Calvary Cemetery, and several other projects.
Joy P. Deupree, PhD “Faith is taking the first step even when you don’t see the whole staircase.” -Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Dr. Deupree has worked at UAB’s School of Nursing for 18 years and teaches health policy for doctoral students. In 2013, as President of the Nurse Practitioner Alliance of Alabama, she championed passage of legislation to improve access to health care for under-served populations by reducing barriers for nurse practitioners to practice in Alabama. In 2014, she was named a Robert Wood Johnson Foundation Executive Nurse Fellow, and through her fellowship, she established the Health Literacy Partnership of Alabama in 2016. 8
2017 Top 50 Over 50
www.positivematurity.org
SPECIAL PROMOTION
Dr. David Faber “It is not difficult unless I make it so.� Dr. Faber graduated in 1981 from the Brody School of Medicine at East Carolina University in Greenville, North Carolina. He then went to the University of Cincinnati College of Medicine for his psychiatric training and served as a Chief Resident. He is board-certified in Psychiatry by the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology and is a Fellow of The American Psychiatric Association. Since completion of his training, he has practiced Psychiatry in several areas including Forensic and Administrative psychiatry. Chemical dependency is more than a medical interest; this disease has touched him and his family personally and he knows well both the challenges and rewards of recovery. Originally from North Carolina, he lives in Helena with his wife and neurotic dogs. He has been practicing in Helena since 2006. In his free time, his hobbies include woodworking and beekeeping.
Reverend Frank Dukes Rev. Frank Dukes is a hero. He impacted lives and made history by creating the Selective Buying Campaign of 1962; co-leading the Easter Sunday March of 1963; working with and serving as a body guard for Dr. Martin L. King, Jr.; and acting as the Director of Alumni Affairs at his Alma Mater, Miles College. He became the second Black counselor for the Alabama Department of Education where he worked with public offenders and substance abusers for over 20 years. Now retired, he volunteers as a counselor and instructor at Maranathan Academy, a 25-year old nonprofit school specializing in critically at risk youth, founded by his daughter Donna.
Dr. Thomas Dudney, DMD A graduate of the UAB School of Dentistry, Dr. Dudney is one of the most outstanding smile designers in the world. With decades of experience in advanced cosmetic dentistry, he has served as the Clinical Director for the Aesthetic Advantage hands-on programs taught by Dr. Larry Rosenthal at New York University and the Eastman Dental Clinic in London, as well as Clinical Director for the California Center for Advanced Dental Studies live patient hands-on programs taught in the US, Canada, and the UK. Presently, he is the Clinical Director for the new Pacific Aesthetic Continuum hands-on programs. He has presented workshops and lectures and authored several articles on aesthetic and restorative dentistry. www.top50over50.com
2017 Top 50 Over 50
9
SPECIAL PROMOTION
Fannie Flagg (Patricia Neal) Patricia Neal, known professionally as Fannie Flagg, is an American actress, comedian and author. She is best known as a panelist on the game show, Match Game, and for the novel, Fried Green Tomatoes at the Whistle Stop Cafe, adapted into the movie, Fried Green Tomatoes. Flagg was nominated for an Academy Award for the screenplay adaptation, the Writers Guild of America Award, and won the highly regarded Scripter Award for best screenplay. Fannie’s career started in the fifth grade when she wrote, directed, and starred in her first play entitled The Whoopee Girls. At 19, she began writing and producing TV specials and later wrote and appeared on Candid Camera. She is the New York Times bestselling author of Daisy Fay and the Miracle Man, Welcome to the World, Baby Girl!, Standing in the Rainbow, A Redbird Christmas, Can’t Wait to Get to Heaven and I Still Dream About You. Flagg lives happily in California and Alabama. ANDREW SOUTHAM PHOTOGRAPHY
Judge Sherri Friday “People are more than the worst thing they have ever done in their lives.” -Sister Helen Prejean
Sherri Coleman Friday graduated from the University of Alabama and Cumberland School of Law at Samford University. Judge Friday practiced law in Jefferson County for 18 years prior to her election as Jefferson County Probate Judge, Place 2 in 2006, and re-election in 2012. Judge Friday hears cases involving adult involuntary commitments, adoptions, probate of wills, guardianships and conservatorships, estate and conservator settlements, condemnations, claims against estates, legitimations, name changes and petitions for sale of real estate. She received the State of Alabama National Alliance on Mental Illness Judicial Award in 2010.
Ike Gulas The Ike Gulas Law Firm focuses on mass torts, product liability and personal injury/wrongful death litigation. Ike has an impressive reputation in torts and suits brought against pharmaceutical manufacturers, and he lectures and appears on national media programs. Well known within the Greek-American community, he has been a member of AHEPA for over 30 years and was elected its third youngest National President in its 95 year history. He was named NEO Magazine’s Person of the Year for his response to the 2007 fires in Greece, helping to raise over 2 million dollars. Ike is also active in the Greek Church and was inducted into the highest lay rank.
10
2017 Top 50 Over 50
www.positivematurity.org
SPECIAL PROMOTION
Martha Haarbauer “Fire is seen in the eyes of the young, but it is light that we see in the eyes of the seasoned.” - Victor Hugo
Martha Haarbauer directed The Seasoned Performers from 1984 until 2007 and has taught acting at UAB for over 25 years. She is the author of Seasoned Theatre: A Guide to Creating and Maintaining a Senior Adult Theatre. She has appeared in productions at Birmingham Festival Theatre, Town and Gown, Jewish Community Center Players, Terrific New Theatre and UAB Theatre, and she played a featured role in Horn in the West outdoor drama in Boone, North Carolina. Ms. Haarbauer has been a costume designer at UAB and has written several scripts for The Seasoned Performers.
Valerie Holley “Moderation is the secret to having a healthy and happy life.” Around 12 years old, Valerie decided she wanted to become a nurse and work with children. After graduating from the UAB School of Nursing and the Pediatric Nurse Practitioner Program, she worked in Pediatric Cardiology at UAB for 36 years, helping to raise a population of children born with congenital heart disease. She says, “Our goal was to encourage them to focus on the things that they could do, not the things that they were not able to do.” She enjoys keeping up with some of her “adopted kids” - now adults, even though she is retired. She enjoys making pottery and participating in art shows. She and her husband, Bob, live with their rescue beagle, Lily, and they have 3 daughters and 4 grandchildren.
Jerri Haslem
“Your physical health impacts your fiscal health.”
www.top50over50.com
Jerri Haslem is an alumna of UAB where she received her Bachelor of Science in Health Education. Her interests and knowledge lie in health, fitness, and community service. She has come to know and collaborate with key stakeholders in Jefferson County. She is the founder of Black People Run Bike and Swim and 12 Weeks of Change, both of which focus on African American health and physical activity needs. These programs have gained her recognition in The Birmingham News and allowed her to produce life-changing results for a number of individuals and clients.
2017 Top 50 Over 50
11
SPECIAL PROMOTION
Eric P. Jack, PhD “Service is the rent that you pay for the space you occupy here on earth.” Dr. Jack is the Wells Fargo Endowed Chair in Business Administration, Professor of Management, and Dean of the Collat School of Business at UAB. He has a BS in Industrial Engineering from Georgia Tech, an MBA from Wright State University and a PhD in Operations Management from the University of Cincinnati. Before his academic career, Jack served for 21 years as a US Air Force officer. He serves on the boards of Rotary, Innovation Depot, Malcovery Security, the Birmingham Committee on Foreign Relations, United Way and the Southern Business Administration Association. A naturalized citizen, Jack was born on the island of Trinidad and Tobago. He is married to his engineering classmate, Ave Parker Jack, from Augusta. Eric is an avid golfer.
Judge Alan King Judge King has dockets at both the Birmingham and Bessemer courthouses. He is also the Chief Election Official for Jefferson County. Judge King is a member of the Alabama Bar Association, Birmingham Bar Association, Bessemer Bar Association, and the Alabama Probate Judges Association where he has served as President, Vice President, Secretary, Treasurer, and Chairperson of the Continuing Education and Mental Health committees. In addition, he is a member of the National College of Probate Judges, the National Academy of Elder Law Attorneys and The Election Center. Judge King received the State of Alabama National Alliance on Mental Illness Judicial Award in 2006.
Minister Timothy Jennings “Understand me.” Minister Jennings is a 21st century multi-talented actor, comedian, and motivational speaker. He has been a professional entertainer for 20 years and is known for his ministry of humor across the world. His comedy caters to the mainstream and is family friendly. Past performances include BET, Los Angeles & Las Vegas Comedy Festivals, Bay Area Competition, Steve Harvey Finalist & Tom Joyner’s Big Break. He founded UnderstandMe Productions, a company dedicated to all people, but especially Alabama’s youths. He is the Founder and Pastor of Uplifting The Name Of Jesus Ministries which encourages people in their faith during challenging times. 12
2017 Top 50 Over 50
w
SPECIAL PROMOTION
Pat Koch Patricia Koch, 85, is part owner of Alabama Splash Adventure and is called “The General.” She has been in the theme park business since 1960 when she married Bill, whose family operated a small park in Santa Claus, Indiana. In 2014, the Koch family purchased Alabama’s biggest water and amusement park where she is an active manager. Once the season ends, she returns to Santa Claus to head the volunteer Santa’s Elves program that ensures every child’s Letter to Santa receives a personal reply. She has a BS in Nursing, an MS in Pastoral Studies, and an honorary PHD in Law. In 2011, she was named to the Junior Achievement Evansville Business Hall of Fame.
Jo S. Kittinger “The most valuable possession you can own is an open heart. The most powerful weapon you can be is an instrument of peace.” -Carlos Santana
“Be what you want them to be. Do what you want them to do.”
Jo is the author of more than 25 children’s books, most notably The House on Dirty-Third Street. She was honored with a Christopher Award, an IRA Social Justice Literature Award and the Carol D. Reiser Children’s Book Award. Additionally, Rosa’s Bus: The Ride to Civil Rights, was honored with a Crystal Kite award. Jo enjoys the positions of Regional Advisor Emeritus and Mentorship Coordinator for the Southern Breeze region of the Society of Children’s Books Writers and Illustrators and has served in various leadership roles at Shades Valley Community Church.
Dr. Larry J. Lemak Dr. Lemak is the Founder of Lemak Sports Medicine & Orthopedics. He devotes his practice to sports medicine and knee replacements and is a nationally recognized leader in his field. He is a board member of Pop Warner Football; Chairman of both Youth Sports of the Americas and Lakepoint ASPIRE Institute; the Founder of the National Center for Sports Safety, Alabama Sports Foundation and the American Sports Medicine Institute; and Chief Medical Officer of Major League Soccer. He and his wife Georgine have three children: John, David, and Matthew, all of Birmingham. Dr. Lemak travels extensively and is busy raising two Golden Retrievers and enjoying his 7 grandchildren. www.top50over50.com
2017 Top 50 Over 50
13
SPECIAL PROMOTION
Don N. Levy “There’s a lot of blood, sweat and guts between dreams and success.” -Paul “Bear” Bryant
Don’s boundless energy has made him a Birmingham institution not only in advertising, but in the life of his community. On the business scene, he is best known for his innovative advertising work for area automotive dealerships. But his passion for helping others has also led him to serve the Hoover Metro Kiwanis Club, the DeMeco Ryans and Bo Jackson Celebrity Charity Golf Tournament to help underprivileged children, as a board member of Temple Beth-El, and as longtime PR Officer for the Alabama Air National Guard. He has also served as president and board member for the University of Alabama Million Dollar Band Alumni.
Marie Lown
“Don’t base your life on other’s expectations. Find your niche and give back.” Marie exemplifies the spirit of volunteerism. Within days of retiring from a successful banking career, she felt Walker Baptist Medical Center could best utilize her volunteer services. She immediately applied her talents becoming Craft Chairperson, amassing State Auxiliary Awards. She facilitated a Baby Cap program for newborns and also created a similar program at Walker Cancer Center. Marie is an avid supporter of Retired Senior Volunteers Program, especially with her first love, Yellow Dot. She also serves on the RSVP Advisory Council. When learning of Marie’s favorite quote below, her nominators said, “We believe Marie has just begun.”
Doug Marshall
“Children and adults with disabilities are made in the image of Almighty God with great purpose and immeasurable value.” 14
2017 Top 50 Over 50
Doug Marshall is CFO and Director of Community Relations for the Alabama Family Trust. He is co-publisher of The Selma Sun and The Leeds Tribune, focused on the positive and uplifting, and a coach with Grace Ministries. Marshall spent 25 years at Energen as Tax Director and VP/ Controller of Alagasco with responsibilities over Operations. He has devoted his life to helping others soar, continuing his journey as CFO for United Ability before moving to AFT, a non-profit administering special needs trusts to improve the lives of children and adults with disabilities, including the elderly in nursing homes.
www.positivematurity.org
Tony Nathan
SPECIAL PROMOTION
“We have no lightning bugs on this team.” -Paul “Bear” Bryant Birmingham native Tony Curtiss Nathan started to display his passion for football at the home of the Colonels, Woodlawn High School as a running back, and was awarded an Athletic scholarship to the University of Alabama. Nathan’s collegiate career spanned from 1975-1979. In 1979, Nathan was drafted by the Miami Dolphins and played for 1979-1987. After playing for the Dolphins, his passion continued. He coached from 1988-2009 for the Miami Dolphins, Tampa Bay Buccaneers, FIU, Baltimore Ravens and the San Francisco 49ers. Currently, Tony and his wife, Johnnie, reside in Miami, Florida, and he is currently working as a Bailiff.
Viola English Mims “If not now, when?” Serving as Deputy Director for Community Services at the Jefferson County Committee for Economic Opportunity has helped Viola to further understand and grasp, along her life journey as an Oglethorpe, Georgia native; Tuskegee alumnus; former 19-year BellSouth Network Manager; former business owner; mother of three selfless sons; and former JCCEO Planning, Evaluation, Compliance, and Communications Coordinator, the meaning, purpose, and beauty of giving, unselfishness, and elevating the lives of others. She strives to give the best of her best to help ensure her clients are equitably served in a healthy, caring, and respectful manner. She adds, “I am indeed grateful for and humbled by this nomination.”
Rita Mendel When Rita moved from New York 34 years ago, she looked to volunteer using her two wonderful horses for a handicapped riding program, but soon learned that there was not one in all of Alabama. She approached the managers of OM Barn, and they loaned her horses and equipment to get started. With a lot of support from very big hearted people, they were an instant success. The physical and mental progress their riders make is incredible, and for Rita, the legacy she is leaving is the proudest thing she has ever done. www.top50over50.com
2017 Top 50 Over 50
15
SPECIAL PROMOTION
Chief Nathaniel Rutledge, Jr. “All is well.” Chief Rutledge is Police Chief at the City of Bessemer. He was President of the Alabama Association Chiefs of Police from 2012-2014. He serves as Adjunct Criminal Justice Instructor at Lawson State Community College, Alabama New Chiefs Development at Jacksonville State, the Northeast Alabama Law Enforcement Academy and speaks at local schools, civic groups and churches. He is a member of Trinity CME Church and Prince Hall Free and Accepted Masons. He serves on the advisory boards of the Salvation Army, the Bessemer West Jefferson Literacy Council, and the Children’s Policy Council of Jefferson County. Chief Rutledge is married to Joyce and has children: Erica, Lauren, and Trey.
Elberta G. Reid “Put down that book and go outside and PLAY.” -Elberta’s Mother Elberta has been a tireless conservation advocate for the Audubon Society, Ornithological Society, Bird Sanctuaries, Ruffner Nature Center, Black Warrior River Keepers, and Jemison Park. She served as chairman of the organizations for the Forever Wild legislation and was awarded Conservationist of the Year from the Alabama Conservancy. The Women of the Sipsey honored her work for getting the Sipsey Wilderness legislation enacted in Washington and co-producing a film about the Bankhead National Forest. Elberta was also chairman of the Jefferson County Planning and Zoning Commission. She is a member of the Linley Heflin Unit which sponsors scholarships for young women.
Billie Seals Billie was a teacher at West Jasper Elementary for 10 years and then spent the rest of her career at Maddox Middle School. She told stories to her classes and used them to teach. Now, Billie tells stories for the Walker County Arts Alliance. She believes that story-telling is a lost art and wants to pass her stories on to as many people as possible. At Creators Camp, Billie will be teaching the importance of drama, eye contact, adjectives, body language, and voice control. She will be passing along tradition, customs, truths, and history in her stories to the lucky students who will get the privilege to hear her speak.
16
2017 Top 50 Over 50
www.positivematurity.org
SPECIAL PROMOTION
Don Stewart, MD
Clarissa F. Smith, Ph.D. Clarissa is known as The Caregiving Doctor. She has been a practicing licensed occupational therapist for over 33 years in nursing homes, home health, and assisted living facilities. Dr. Smith is a sought-out speaker, trainer, and workshop leader in aging parent and family caregiving challenges, and a radio host to millions on The Caregiving Doctor Show. She is a national columnist and has published over 250 articles in geriatrics, as well as authored four books. She is CEO of the Caregiving Kids Academy, an intergenerational child care center, and she is the author of The Caregiving Kids Series and 15 family caregiving booklets.
After earning degrees from Birmingham-Southern College and the UA School of Medicine and a year’s internship at the Mayo Clinic, Dr. Stewart discharged himself from the hospital just in time to avoid a lucrative surgical career. It was the best clinical decision he ever made. He has spent the last three decades thinking up bad jokes and coaxing his signature style of visual humor from the tip of an ordinary ballpoint pen. He currently limits his medical practice to disorders of the funny bone, while he perpetrates random acts of silliness from the DS Art studio in Homewood.
Cindi Stehr “The child who has felt a strong love for his surroundings and for all living creatures, who has discovered joy and enthusiasm in work, gives us reason to hope that humanity can develop in a new direction.” -Dr. Maria Montessori Cindi founded Hilltop Montessori School 20 years ago because she wanted a safe place for her children to learn, and she had a deep passion for the Montessori Philosophy. With no idea that Hilltop would grow into such a place of peace and learning, she is beyond proud. Not only does she teach, but she tends the gardens, working with the students on planning, growing, harvesting and cooking the food. She started a native plant butterfly garden and a peace garden. She is a beekeeper and maintains the hives at the school, Mt. Laurel Farm, and the Aldridge Gardens. She is an exercise enthusiast and teaches at the Vestavia YMCA. www.top50over50.com
2017 Top 50 Over 50
17
Beth Thorne Stukes
SPECIAL PROMOTION
“We all plant the seed that one day will grow…it is a beginning, a step along the way.” -Oscar Romero Beth was raised in Cordova, so it was destined that she return to serve after the community was devastated by a tornado in 2011. Beth had matured through years of teaching and community service and responded immediately when called upon to help citizens in need. Because she disregarded the depth of the water she entered, her amazing service has been applauded on State and National levels. Currently, she has been called to lecture on Disaster Response. Beth serves on the Boards of Samford University, United Way, Walker Area Community Foundation, and Co Chairs the Auburn Capital Campaign. Beth believes, “Life experiences determine who you are.”
Sandra “Sandi” P. Sudduth “Success is to be measured not so much by the position that one has reached in life as by the obstacles which he has overcome.” -Booker T. Washington From a very humble beginning in Jasper, Sandi has broken many barriers on her way to becoming a Community Trailblazer. After multiple occupations in Atlanta, Sandra returned home a single mother of five. Through experience and learning from mentors, she brought home an eloquent professional demeanor. She progressed from City Hall Clerk to City Councilwoman. Ultimately she became Motivational Career Coach for Walker County SOS. An altruistic mindset impacted the least of these. Sandra says, “I’m not a politician. I’m a servant.” Her greatest asset is the capability of pulling people of all backgrounds together. 18
2017 Top 50 Over 50
Deidre Tatum Deidre Tatum is the Executive Director of Walker County Community Action Agency, Inc., working with all age groups impacting the conditions of lowincome families and communities. Deidre serves on the board of Walker County Chamber of Commerce, Hope for Women Recovery Center, Health Activity Partnership of Walker County, and Jasper High School FACS. In addition, Deidre serves on many local committees. She has developed successful youth programs and adult self-sufficiency programs to meet the community needs. Deidre is a graduate of Stillman College with a Bachelor’s Degree in Business Management. She and her husband, Charles, have two sons.
www.positivematurity.org
SPECIAL PROMOTION
Barbara Williams “Life moves really fast. If you don’t stop and look around, you might miss it.” -Ferris Bueller
Marlene Wallace
An intense interest in people and different experiences led Barbara down a long path of learning and service. She began in medical research at Southern Research Institute and UAB including an opportunity to grow crystals in space with Astronaut Larry DeLucas. At age 50, she obtained her Master’s in Counseling, rode a mule down the Grand Canyon and began her encore careers that included Field Director for the Department of Children’s Affairs, Communications Director for a Treatment Facility and Coordinator for Shelby County’s Children’s Policy Council. Now she lives the serenity of lake life where she paints, quilts, crafts and spends time with her grandchildren and fur babies. Her greatest accomplishment is how well her boys have turned out despite their raising.
“I am not afraid; I was born to do this!” -Joan of Arc and Marlene Wallace
Marlene’s first career was in publishing as a Vice-President and National Director for 40 offices. After 12 years of road warrior status, she transitioned back to Birmingham, hired a career firm, fell in love with the industry and started her own award-winning practice. That was 19 years ago. She has served on the Shelby County Salvation Army Board, served 18 years as a Master Docent at the Museum, served The Women’s Network board, and conducted multiple Career Workshops for nonprofits. Plus, she has just made her stage debut at a local theatre. She credits her sweet husband of 42 years and beautiful sons, Brian and Brett for always believing in her and supporting her dreams.
Judge Scott Vowell Since retiring from the bench in 2013, Scott’s practice has consisted of Alternative Dispute Resolution – Mediation, Arbitration and Private Judging. Judge Vowell served as a Jefferson County Circuit Judge for 18 years, the last ten as Presiding Circuit Judge. Prior to the bench, he was a civil litigator. Judge Vowell is Director of the Birmingham Bar’s Volunteer Lawyer Program and is a Fellow of the Alabama Law Foundation. He served as President of the Alabama Circuit Court Judges Association, the Legal Aid Society, and the Inns of Court, to name a few. He serves on the Board for Opera Birmingham, the Alabama Ballet, the Boy Scouts, and is a Trustee of the YMCA. He is married to Cameron McDonald Vowell, with one son, John Scott Vowell, Jr. www.top50over50.com
2017 Top 50 Over 50
19
SPECIAL PROMOTION
Positive Maturity’s 4th Annual
®
Thanks To Our Sponsors Congratulations
David M. Young
Joy Deupree
“The only place success comes before work is in the dictionary.” -Vince Lombardi
on Being Selected a Top 50 Over 50
David Young of Hunt, Guillot & Associates is a staunch advocate for abused, neglected or abandoned animals. To make a difference, he joined the Greater Birmingham Humane Society board several years ago and was nominated by his peers to lead as Chair. He has seen the agency grow exponentially and has led the board through an initiative for a land gift to build a new site. David has rescued too many animals to count and recently adopted Bama, a pit-mix with one of the worst cases of mange ever seen. David fostered Bama, nursed her skin every night and eventually adopted her into his home.
LYNN CAMPISI, P.C. ATTORNEYS AT LAW 3016 Pump House Road Birmingham, Alabama 35243 Phone: 205-967-1010 Fax:205-967-9724 www.campisilaw.com
20
2017 Top 50 Over 50
Lynn Campisi, P.C., Attorneys at Law, specializes in Elder Law, Special Need www.positivematurity.org Estate Planning. Her legal advocacy provides guidance to enhance the lives of
ds and those
SPECIAL PROMOTION
Thank You Tina Savas
Positive Maturity is dedicating this year’s Top 50 Over 50® to Tina Savas. Tina Savas was among the first wave of women entrepreneurs in Birmingham, Alabama. She founded the Birmingham Business Journal, Alabama Construction News, and Birmingham Weekly, Birmingham’s weekly alternative newspaper and winner of national awards. In addition, she was the original founder of the Top 40 Under 40 Awards, an award that is now nationwide. In addition to building Birmingham up through her businesses, Tina served on many local boards for community development and advised numerous foundations, colleges and hospitals. She has been recognized over the years for her service and career. In 2005, Ms. Savas wrote a book (along with co-author, Edie Hand), Women of True Grit, about women who accomplished firsts in their fields. The book garnered top national reviews and attention in several media outlets. Tina became a part of the Positive Maturity family in 2009 as an advisory council member for the Aging Workers Are Reliable Employees (AWARE) program. She worked tirelessly assisting the program grow and find its place in Birmingham. In 2011, Tina joined Positive Maturity’s Board of Directors. Again, Tina dedicated many hours to Positive Maturity assisting in areas such as governance, long-range planning and fund development. Tina was responsible for helping the agency develop its annual fundraising event, Top 50 Over 50®. Through her leadership, knowledge and support, the Top 50 Over 50® is now recognized as a wonderful annual event that shines a light on the aging community and those who truly make Alabama a better place. Tina is taking some time off from the board after this year’s event, but we know she will continue to make a difference in the aging community, her community and Alabama while continuing her entrepreneurial spirit through professional speaking, consulting, mentoring, real estate investment and other business ventures. From all of us here at Positive Maturity, we thank you, Tina Savas, for your dedication, hard work and commitment to our agency and mission. You will always be our Top 50 Over 50®! www.top50over50.com
2017 Top 50 Over 50
21
SPECIAL PROMOTION
Positive Maturity’s 4th Annual
®
Thanks To Our Sponsors
AMERICAN is a Proud Supporter of Positive Maturity and its Efforts to Benefit Seniors in our Surrounding Communities.
22
2017 Top 50 Over 50
www.positivematurity.org
SPECIAL PROMOTION
Positive Maturity’s 4th Annual
®
Thanks To Our Sponsors ENERGIZERS
www.top50over50.com
2017 Top 50 Over 50
23
Positive Maturity 2017 Top 50 Over 50
www.positivematurity.org
HOSPITALS BIRMINGHAM AREA
Brookwood Medical Center
Medical West
Shelby Baptist Medical Center
Children’s of Alabama
Princeton Baptist Medical Center
UAB Hospital
2010 Brookwood Medical Ctr Dr, Birmingham, AL 35209 www.brookwoodbaptisthealth.com 1600 7th Ave S, Birmingham, AL 35233 www.childrensal.org
Citizens Baptist Medical Center
995 9th Ave SW, Bessemer, AL 35022 www.medicalwesthospital.org
701 Princeton Ave SW, Birmingham, AL 35211 www.brookwoodbaptisthealth.com
St. Vincent’s Birmingham
604 Stone Ave, Talladega, AL 35160
810 St. Vincent’s Drive, Birmingham, AL 35205 stvhs.com/birmingham
Coosa Valley Medical Center
Saint Vincent’s Blount
315 W Hickory St, Sylacauga, AL 35150 www.brookwoodbaptisthealth.com
Cullman Regional Medical Center
1912 Al Highway 157, Cullman, AL 35058 cullmanregional.com
Grandview Medical Center
3690 Grandview Pkwy, Birmingham, AL 35243 www.grandviewhealth.com
150 Gilbreath Drive, Oneonta, AL 35121 www.stvhs.com/blount/ ●
St. Vincent’s East
50 Medical Park Dr E, Birmingham, AL 35235 www.stvhs.com/east
St. Vincent’s St. Clair
7063 Veterans Pkwy, Pell City, AL 35125 www.stvhs.com/stclair/
1000 1st St N, Alabaster, AL 35007 www.brookwoodbaptisthealth.com 1802 6th Ave S, Birmingham, AL 35233 www.uabmedicine.org
UAB Hospital - Highlands
1201 11th Ave S, Birmingham, AL 35205 www.uabmedicine.org
Walker Baptist Medical Center 3400 Highway 78 E, Jasper, AL 35501 www.brookwoodbaptisthealth.com
HOME HEALTH
Alacare Home Health & Hospice Alabama’s oldest family-owned home health provider, with branches serving almost every county in the state, it provides home health, hospice and palliative care; physical rehabilitation; and specialty programs in an in-home setting. 2400 John Hawkins Parkway, Suite 104 Birmingham, AL 35244 • 205-739-7141 www.alacare.com
B-METRO.COM 115
Where food feels like family.
om e
Benard and Brianna Tamburello
C
Vecchia
pizzeria & Mercato 610 Preserve Pkwy Suite 100 Hoover, AL 35226 (205) 637-3036 vecchiabirmingham.com
! s eat with u Moss Rock
Tacos & Tequila 616 Preserve Pkwy, Hoover, AL 35226 (205) 783-1130 mossrocktacos.com
97˚26'0"W
97˚24'0"W
Room to breathe.
27˚48'0"N
TRAVEL BRILLIANTLY. Marriott Birmingham 3590 Grandview Parkway, Birmingham, AL 35243 205.968.4553 www.birminghammarriott.com Operated by PYRAMID HOTEL GROUP under license from Marriott International, Inc. or one of its affiliates.
bhammarriott-fullpage-v2.indd 1
3/16/17 2:33 PM
SCHOOLS BIRMINGHAM AREA
PRIVATE SCHOOLS Cornerstone Schools of Alabama
Cornerstone Schools of Alabama is a Christcentered school that serves inner-city students in grades K4-12. The mission of Cornerstone Schools of Alabama is to inspire and develop critically thinking and compassionate young people in a Christ-centered learning community that is committed to academic excellence and character development. 118 55th Street N, Birmingham, AL 35212 205-591-7600 csalabama.org/
Creative Montessori School
Creative Montessori School enrolls 240 students at the toddler, primary, and elementary levels (18 months through 6th Grade) on a two-acre campus located in the center of Homewood. CMS offers its students a private school education in a warm and loving atmosphere where the focus is on the individual child. 1650 28th Ct S., Birmingham, AL 35209 205-879-3278 cmskids.org/
Highlands School
Highlands School is an independent school distinguished by a diverse community and a commitment to academic excellence, creative expression, and leadership development. They prepare and motivate students to thrive and make positive differences in a constantly-changing, global world. 4901 Old Leeds Rd., Birmingham, AL 35213 205-956-9731 www.highlandsschool.org/page/Home
Holy Family Christo Rey Catholic
Holy Family Cristo Rey Catholic High School combines academic rigor and a corporate work-study program to empower students from economically challenged families to graduate high school prepared to persist in college and flourish in life. 2001 19th Street Ensley, Birmingham, AL 35218 205-787-9937 www.hfcristorey.org/
118 CITY GUIDE 2017
Holy Family Elementary (middle school)
Holy Family Catholic Academy, the only parochial, accredited middle school in Birmingham, believes that preparation for college begins at the middle school level. 1916 19th St Ensley Birmingham, AL 35218 205-780-5858 hfeb.schoolinsites.com/
Jefferson Christian Academy Pk-12th
A Bible based school that focuses on the whole child; spirit, mind, body and a servant’s heart, encouraging each child to develop and use the talents that God has given them so that they may be a role model for others. 1500 Heritage Place Dr., Birmingham, AL 35210 www.jcaweb.net
Islamic Academy of Alabama
The Islamic Academy of Alabama is a non-profit, full-time Islamic school, located in Homewood, educating students using Islamic and innovative educational methods.. 1810 25th Ct. S., Birmingham, AL 35209 205-870-0422 www.iaak12.org/
Our Lady of Sorrows
Our Lady of Sorrows Catholic School fosters the religious, academic, and social development of every child, recognizing that knowledge enlightened by faith and realized through service is at the heart of Catholic education. PK-8th 1720 Oxmoor Rd., Birmingham, AL 35209 205-879-3237 www.olsschool.com/
John Carroll Catholic High School
John Carroll Catholic High School is a Catholic school that calls its students, faculty, and parents into active partnership for learning through spiritual growth, academics, the arts, athletics, and discipline in the context of a Christ-centered environment. 300 Lakeshore Parkway, Birmingham, AL 35209 205-940-2400 www.jcchs.org
Joseph S. Bruno Montessori Academy
As a leader in Montessori Education, find out what makes our students into future leaders, problem solvers, and global citizens. PK-8th 5509 Timber Hill Road, Birmingham, AL 35242 205-995-8709 jbma.education/
Our Lady of the Valley School
Our Lady of the Valley Catholic School is a Christcentered learning community that fosters academic excellence, positive moral development, and community service. PK-8th 5510 Double Oak Lane, Birmingham, AL 35242 205-991-5963 www.olvbirmingham.com/
Prince of Peace Catholic School
Prince of Peace Catholic School serves over 450 students, pre-k through 8th grade, focusing on the academic, spiritual, physical, social, and emotional needs of each child. 4650 Preserve Parkway, Hoover, AL 35226 205-824-7886 www.popcatholic.net/
Southminster Day School
Southminster Day School, a private school, was established in 1967, to give children of the community the finest background in their early formative years in a Christian atmosphere. PK-5th 1124 Montgomery Hwy., Vestavia, AL 35216 205-822-9531 www.southminsterpcusa.org/day-school.php Spring Valley School Spring Valley’s mission is to provide excellence in education for students who struggle with dyslexia, dysgraphia, dyscalculia, AD/HD, and other learning differences. The mission is accomplished by creating a multi-sensory, whole-child approach to education in a small class setting. 2-12th 2701 Sydney Drive, Birmingham, AL 35211 205-423-8660 www.springvalleyschool.org/
Westminster School at Oak Mountain
The Westminster School is a K-12 classical Christian school and is a ministry of Oak Mountain Presbyterian Church (PCA). Founded in 1999
as Oak Mountain Classical School, the school has grown to an enrollment of more than 500 students. 5080 Cahaba Valley Trace, Birmingham, AL 35242 www.westminsterknights.org/
Hilltop Montessori
Offering a quality, Montessori education to the Birmingham area since 1996, Hilltop is located in the beautiful town of Mt. Laurel, off of Highway 41 near Greystone and Shoal Creek. Hilltop offers an authentic accredited Montessori program from 18 months of age through 8th grade. 6 Abbott Square, Birmingham, AL 35242 205-437-9343 www.hilltopmontessori.com
Evangel Classical Christian School
Evangel teaches in the classical model, adapting these methods for our 21st century students, ECCS educates children by using the most effective methods for each of the three natural developmental stages of the children--Grammar (Grades K5-5), Logic (Grades 6-8), and Rhetoric (Grades 9-12). 423 Thompson Rd., Alabaster, AL 35007 205-216-0149 www.evangelclassical.org/
Indian Springs School
The mission of Indian Springs School is to develop in students a love of learning, a sense of integrity and moral courage, and an ethic of participatory citizenship. The school is a community of talented boarding and day students and dedicated faculty committed to the belief that in learning to balance individual achievement with the values and principles of democracy. 190 Woodward Drive, Pelham, AL 35124 205-988-3350 www.indiansprings.org/
PUBLIC SCHOOLS Jefferson County Board of Ed. 2100 18th St. S Birmingham AL 35209 205-379-2000 http://www.jefcoed.com/
Birmingham Board of Ed. 2015 Park Place Birmingham AL 35203 205-231-4600 www.bhamcityschools.org/
Homewood Board of Ed.
Homewood, AL 35209 205-870-4203 www.homewood.k12.al.us/
Shelby County Board of Ed. 410 East College Street Columbiana AL 205-682-7005 www.shelbyed.k12.al.us/
Vestavia Hills Board of Ed 1204 Montgomery Hwy Vestavia Hills, AL 35216 205-402-5100 www.vestavia.k12.al.us/
Mountain Brook Board of Ed. 32 Vine Street Birmingham, AL 35213 205-871-4608 www.mtnbrook.k12.al.us
Hoover City School Board 2810 Metropolitan Way Hoover, AL 35243 205-439-1000 www.hoovercityschools.net/
Trussville City Schools
113 North Chalkville Rd. Trussville, AL 35173. 205-228-3000 www.trussvillecityschools.com/
COLLEGES AND UNIVERSITIES
Birmingham Southern College
Located on the eastern border of the city, BSC is a nationally known and respected four-year, private liberal arts institution founded in 1856 and affiliated with the United Methodist Church. Small class sizes and attentive professors are just part of the draw for students who attend here. 900 Arkadelphia Road, Birmingham, AL 35254 800-523-5793 www.bsc.edu/
Birmingham School of Law
Offering affordable quality legal education, BSL has a diverse Student body of approximately 500 students from all over the state and southeast. Most students attend law school while otherwise employed full time, 70% of the student body still manage to attend classes three nights per week year round in order to complete their law degree. 231 22nd Street S., Birmingham, AL 35233 205-322-6122 www.bsol.com/
Jefferson State Community College
Jefferson State Community College, more often known as ‘Jeff State’, is a two-year college in the Alabama Community College System. For more than 50 years, Jefferson State has led the way in providing excellence in education, value and personal attention. 4600 Valleydale Road, Birmingham, AL 35242 205-983-5911 www.jeffersonstate.edu/
Lawson State Community College
Lawson State is a two year, public, multi campus college, which is dedicated to providing affordable and accessible lifelong learning opportunities to prepare students for employment of career opportunities. 3060 Wilson Rd. SW. Birmingham, AL 35221 205-925-2515 lawsonstate.edu/
Miles College
Founded in 1898 and located in Fairfield AL, a historically black liberal arts college that is affiliated with the Christian Methodist Episcopal Church. 5500 Myron Massey Blvd., Fairfield, AL 35064 (205) 929-1000 www.miles.edu
Samford University
Samford University is a private, coeducational, Christian university located in Homewood, Alabama, a suburb of Birmingham. Samford is affiliated with the Southern Baptist Church. With 130 major courses of study including the Ida Moffett nursing school and Cumberland School of Law. 800 Lakeshore Parkway, Homewood, AL 35209 205-726-2011 www.samford.edu/
University of Alabama at Birmingham
The University of Alabama at Birmingham is a public university, affiliated with the University of Alabama system. UAB is an internationally renowned research university and academic medical center known for its innovative and interdisciplinary approach to education. UAB’s reach stretches across classes, culture and continents into inner-city classrooms, rural clinics and far corners of the globe. 1720 2nd Ave S., Birmingham, AL 35294 205-934-4011 www.uab.edu/home/
450 Dale Dr.
B-METRO.COM 119
METRO
CURIOUS WITH JOEY KENNEDY
I Was a Juvenile Delinquent Maybe.
By Joey Kennedy
I
may have been a juvenile delinquent. No, I have never been arrested, either pre- or post-adult. When I was growing up, I would have never thought to run from a police officer, even if one were chasing me. But I was, at the very least, a mischievous child. This is July, the month of celebrating our independence. One of the childhood deeds I’m least proud of happened around July 4, 1960-something. I blew up a toad. Toads were abundant in our southeastern Texas home. You could just about walk outside anytime and find a toad. I had a slew of Black Cat firecrackers left over from our July 4 celebrations, and I decided I’d make one giant firecracker, stuff it down a toad’s mouth and set it off. My cruelty worked. There were toad parts everywhere. I’m ashamed of that damnable deed even today. I had nothing against toads. Still don’t. Maybe I was just curious, or perhaps the little cruel boy in me took over that day. Juvenile delinquent. My delinquency generally came with a lot of action and little thought. Shortly after I received my first B-B gun, I shot my younger sister in the neck. I was aiming for her eye. My parents were told, by me, that the errant shot was just an accident. They took my B-B gun away (expected), but gave it back to me after a week (unexpected). During my B-B gun career, I shot out more than a few windows, aiming at something in a tree by the window. I wasn’t a great shot by any means, but that never really sank into my thick boy skull. I lived in the present, rarely thinking about the consequences. It was a stupid way to live. But when I shot my sister, I was, indeed aiming for her eye. Juvenile delinquent. There was a time in my young life that I would have never lied to my parents. Really.
They told me if I’d tell the truth, I’d never get into trouble. Once, my older cousin Ray and I decided to attack a ditch-digging machine sitting in front of our house. I was about six at the time. I retrieved my dad’s hacksaw, and Ray and I started cutting off all the belts attached to the machine; then, we unscrewed the various knobs that worked the piece of heavy equipment and threw them in the woods. Happy with our crime, Ray and I went on to some other play task. I carelessly dropped my dad’s hacksaw next to the crippled ditch digger. A little while later, my father grabbed me and asked if I had vandalized the machine. Why, yessir, I told him. And Ray helped. He snatched me up, took me into the bathroom and proceeded to whip my bottom with his long, black belt. Through my tears, I protested that he promised I’d never get into trouble if I told the truth. “You’re not in trouble because you told the truth,” he said. “You’re in trouble for cutting the belts off that ditch digger.” I vowed then never to tell the truth to my parents again if it meant I’d get a whipping. I lived in the present. Didn’t think about the consequences. Juvenile delinquent. One of the best examples of my living in the present was when our next-door neighbors came back once from a crawfishing trip. There were three or four buckets filled with squirming crawfish. I went over and grabbed one of the buckets, believing the neighbors would never notice it was gone. I took the bucket home, around to the side of our house. Crawfish were climbing out, and then it struck me: How was I going to explain to my parents how I came to have a bucket of freshly caught crawfish? I heard my mother yelling my name. I was caught. So I did what I often did when I was caught: I ran and hid under my bed. In seconds, I could see my mother’s legs. She bent over, grabbed my arm, pulled and, well, you know the rest.
Joey Kennedy, a Pulitzer Prize winner, writes B-Curious for B-Metro every month. Email: joeykennedy@me.com. 120 CITY GUIDE 2017
A juvenile delinquent who lived only in the present. Never got arrested, but probably should have. By puberty, I’d just about straightened out. Oh, I was still mischievous. In my midteens, a friend introduced me to pot, and I sure didn’t tell my parents I was smoking dope. But, my goodness, they had to smell it. Nobody was nose-blind to weed back then. Indeed, my mother asked me one day if I had been smoking dope. She looked into my red-rimmed eyes, and I looked right back. No ma’am, I lied. For whatever reason, she let it go. I still was, in some sense, a juvenile delinquent living only in the present. After I left home, my mother and I became great friends and confidants. I didn’t live near her, but we talked regularly. Once I called to tell her I had my left ear pierced. A protest pierce, because the newspaper wouldn’t allow men who have pierced ears. Still, a bit of a delinquent. I told Mom to sit down, I had something to tell her. “I got my ear pierced.” Her response: “Oh, Joey, you can call and tell me anything. Just don’t ever call and tell me you’re gay.” I was the one who had to sit down. It hit me then that Mom suspected her juvenile delinquent son, married more than 10 years at the time, was perhaps gay. I know now, even if I were gay, she would have still loved me and cherished our relationship. When Mom was on her death bed with bone cancer, and was still able to tolerate the pain and hold conversations, I decided I’d confess the sins she didn’t already know about. Clear the air and have no regrets. Tell her I did smoke pot. And did some other delinquent things. “Mom,” I started. “I just wanted to tell you about some of the stuff I did when I was younger, some of the house rules I broke …” Mom cut me off. “Stop it, Joey. Your dad and I weren’t as stupid as you think we were.” My wise mother died a few weeks later. She was 63.
•