Top 50 Over 50

SPECIAL PROMOTION

POSITIVE MATURITY’S 5TH ANNUAL

Top 50 Over 50 2018

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Welcome to the 5th 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 2018. The Top 50 Over 50® is celebrating its 5th year of recognizing adults ages 50 and older who have made a significant impact in their communities through business, civic engagement or lifetime achievements. Our class this year is truly inspirational from Ms. Lois “Mama” Coleman, founder of Grace House Ministries to Evander Holyfield, the “Real Deal”, who reigned as the undisputed champion in both the cruiserweight and heavyweight divisions, being the first and to this date, the only boxer in history to do so.

We hope our 250 individuals that we have presented to you in the past 5 years will serve as inspiration to you and others that every person has a purpose and regardless of your age, income or ability you are able to make a difference in your community.

We also want to take this opportunity to thank Regions Bank, ACIPCO, Alacare, AARP, and Drayer Physical Therapy as this year’s sponsors. A special thanks to Sara Walker, our photographer, who donated her time and talent for the amazing photographs of our recipients.

Since 1972, Positive Maturity has been the fabric of the aging 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 Services.

We appreciate your support for Positive Maturity and the Top 50 Over 50 event and hope to see you again next year!

Penny Kakoliris Executive Director Positive Maturity, Inc.

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what can

positive maturity do for you?

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.

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.

EMCEES:

BRENDA LADUN & TINA SAVAS

Brenda Ladun Brenda grew up in Pennsylvania and graduated from the University of South Florida with a bachelor’s in mass communications. 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.

In 2001, she was diagnosed with breast cancer. She had a double mastectomy and underwent chemotherapy. During her recovery she took up running and has competed

Tina Savas

d Tina Savas, Author & Speaker, is among

the first wave of women entrepreneurs in Birmingham, Alabama. In 1983, she founded the Birmingham Business Journal newspaper, followed by Alabama Health News, Alabama Construction News, and Birmingham Weekly.

In 2005, Savas began writing a book about women who set firsts in their fields, and five years later, it was launched at the Women in Military Service Museum in Washington, D.C.

in several marathons. In 2007, after a period of apparent remission, the cancer returned.

Brenda points to her faith as the foundation of her strength to fight the disease.

Today, Brenda is a regional spokeswoman for the Susan G. Komen Breast Cancer Foundation and has written two books about her recovery. She joined Positive Maturity’s Board of Directors in 2017, is an active supporter of the Grace House Christian Home for Girls and teaches Sunday school at Hunter Street Baptist Church.

The book garnered top national reviews and attention in several media outlets, as she traveled the country speaking on Gender Diversity.

Today, Savas continues her entrepreneurial spirit through various businesses and non profit volunteer work. She has been married to Paul for 25 years, and they have one son, Alex.

IN MEMORY OF MAXINE “MACKIE” HOROWITZ Maxine “Mackie” Horowitz began her career with Positive Maturity, Inc. In 2006. As the Jefferson County Retired Senior Volunteer (RSVP) Coordinator, Mackie worked tirelessly to serve the aging population in Jefferson County.

She provided them with meaningful volunteer opportunities, activities and always a warm loving hug. In 2010, she became the Director for Shepherd Center East, a Positive Maturity senior center. This was truly her calling. She created a lively and vibrant center where individuals could participate in many activities, learning experiences and create friendships. You would often hear Mackie use her gift of music to bring all the participants together for a sing along. Or hear her infectious laughter throughout the hallways as she listened to and shared stories with her friends.

Mackie truly was passionate about Shepherd Center East and the people she served. She was their advocate, their teacher, inspiration and friend.

When Positive Maturity, Inc. created the Top 50 Over 50 in 2014, Mackie signed up for every committee and worked tirelessly educating the community about the event and finding nominations. Mackie’s hard work and dedication has made the Top 50 Over 50 an Alabama favorite!

Mackie retired from Positive Maturity, Inc. in December 2016 and moved to Minnesota with her husband, Sherm, to be closer to her children and grandchildren.

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KIM RAFFERTY ABBOTT

KATHERINE N. BARR

Kimberly Abbott, formerly Birmingham City Councilor Kim Rafferty, has been an advocate for veterans, the elderly and the handicapped. Her policy agenda focused on making government more effective, responsive and intentional. From 2001-2009, she and her late husband, Mark Rafferty, owned and operated a small business, Creative Rugs, in Leeds.

Last year, she joyfully married her new love, retired U.S. Army Sergeant First Class Darrin Richard Abbott. She is now committed to being a fulltime wife and mom who is also caregiver to three dogs, two cats, a frog, a hamster, and a plethora of fish and crawdaddies - while searching for new challenges in her professional life.

Katherine has devoted her legal career at Sirote & Permutt, P.C. to helping families with a family member who has a disability.

She creates estate plans for those families for whom a routine plan cannot provide the solutions needed. Nationally, Katherine has advocated for special needs families as the President of the Special Needs Alliance, chairwoman of Elder Law and Special Needs Trusts planning groups in the American Bar Association (ABA) and membership on the ABA’s Commission on Disability Rights. Locally, she serves on the boards of Down Syndrome Alabama and Triumph Services, and was a driving force behind Enable Alabama, which is Alabama’s ABLE Act program for persons with disabilities.

COL. (RET.) ROBERT L. BAREFIELD, SR. Bob Barefield has lived his life for his country both as a career Army Infantry Airborne Ranger for 30 years and in retirement serving Veterans. He served in Vietnam and the invasion of Cambodia with Company A, 1st Cavalry Division where his company received the Presidential Unit Citation. He later commanded the 1st Battalion, 508th Airborne in Panama leading up to Operation Just Cause. His awards include the Legion of Merit, Bronze Star Medal with “V,” and five Purple Hearts. His passion is patriotic causes, especially the Scenic Overlook Project at the Alabama National Cemetery where he chairs the Support Committee. Bob and Nancy have been married for 45 years and have three children and three grandchildren.

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JOAN BROERMAN

DR. JACK BRADFORD Jack Bradford has served as the Executive Council

President for AARP Alabama for the past six years as the volunteer leader of over 430,000 members. His record of public service began long before his involvement with AARP. He served as the International President of Civitan International, was the founding president of the UAB Retirees Association, served on the National Retired Teachers Association Pension Roundtable and held several offices in the Alabama Education Retirees’ Association, including state legislative chair and parliamentarian.

Jack works hard for Alabama’s 50+ to live their best lives as they age.

Joan is also an amazing example of a vibrant senior. She was the founding Regional Advisor for the Southern Breeze region of the Society of Children’s Book Writers & Illustrators, and has remained active. Her hospitality shines as she continually hosts events in her home, from meetings of the Leaky Pens critique group, to swimming parties for church groups, to annual writers’ retreats. She has sold short stories, articles, poems and photos to magazines and newspapers, including Highlights for Children, Pockets and Southern Lady. Her by-line has appeared in more than a dozen books on the craft and business of writing for children.

“Looking at the world through the eyes of others and serving was emphasized to me as a toddler. I held my mom’s hand as we walked in Pocatello, Idaho collecting for the March of Dimes. She told me, “We didn’t cure polio, but we did our part to help.”

-Dr. Jack Bradford

RICK BURGESS

Rick is the co/host of the nationally syndicated Rick & Bubba Show. He has spent most of his career being a voice for his community and as an evangelistic speaker and pastor with a regular travel schedule for a variety of audiences. God has used Rick in a mighty way to draw from experiences and tragedies within his life and offer support and encouragement to many others. Rick is the proud husband to Sherri, with whom he operates the Burgess Ministries that funds the Bronner Burgess Memorial Fund (named in honor of their youngest son). He is the loving father of 5 children.

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SPECIAL PROMOTION

PAUL S. CARRUTHERS

Through 29 years of working in community development and finance, Paul Carruthers has focused on his passion for urban revitalization with his position at Regions Bank. As Regional Community Affairs Manager for Regions, he oversees community development lending, investment and service efforts in Alabama, Mississippi and NW Florida. His focus on community development, affordable housing, and urban revitalization has been instrumental in creating affordable housing and revitalization partnerships that has helped people and communities thrive. He is a recipient of the “Regions Top Performer” Award.

GWENDOLYN WILLIAMS DERU

JOHN CARCIOPPOLO John owns a company called Team Insight Plus,

that helps companies reduce turnover with processes that improve internal communication, raise employee productivity, and ensure the right people are hired for the right job. He also identifies training needs and customizes programs to meet his clients’ needs. He is a Board Member and Ambassador for the Helena Business Association and South Shelby Chamber, an Area Director of five chapters for Business Networking International Alabama, and has served on the Small Business Workgroup and Entrepreneurs Roundtable for Greater Shelby Chamber. In his spare time, he publishes business articles every week as a Helena Reporter Community Columnist for the Shelby County Reporter.

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Gwen is a consultant, international travel writer, journalist, PR, communications, advertising and marketing professional with worldwide clients. As a trailblazer, she established many firsts including: Executive Women Golf League, Talladega Superspeedway Diversity Programs, No Limit One to One Job Training, African American Cultural Alliance, (oldest) African Street Festival, and Summer Lights International Festival. As a community volunteer, Gwen serves on Birmingham Mayor Woodfin’s Transition Team, Smithsonian Media Curiosity Council, NAACP, Bethesda Life Center Board and others. Accomplishments include: Who’s Who in Black Alabama, Who’s Who in Black Birmingham, Central Alabama Global Alliance, New Americans Chamber of Commerce, People, Places and Things Radio Show & Column, Doing Business in Our Global Community and more.

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SPECIAL PROMOTION

CASI FERGUSON

JUDGE LOCKE DONALDSON Locke was born and raised in Birmingham, and has a J.D. fromDonaldson the Birmingham School of Law, as well as a LLM in Inter-

Casi currently serves as the Area Development Director for the United Negro College Fund serving Alabama and Mississippi. Prior to this role, Casi spent 30 years as an executive at AT&T, most recently serving as a project manager and area manager for 21 states. A graduate of Talladega College and the Birmingham City School System, she is a member of the St. Cecilia Court of the Ladies Auxiliary of the Knights of Peter Claver, Tri- County Chapter of the Links Inc., and is also an active member of St. Mary’s Catholic Church.

national law from the University of Edinburgh. He is currently a Senior Trial Referee in the Jefferson County Family Court dealing with issues of dependency, delinquency and child support matters.

Locke shared these thoughts with the nominating committee: “I feel it is a privilege to serve the community in this capacity. Along with great colleagues, I feel we are making a difference in Birmingham and the surrounding areas.”

SUE ELLEN GERRELLS

Sue Ellen is a multi-award-winning actor, director, instructor, lecturer and administrator in community theatre, whose scope encompasses local, national and international arenas. Her past appointments include Executive Director, Alabama Conference of Theatre; and Association of Community Theatre Endowment Trustee. She currently holds the positions of Festival Director, Alabama Conference of Theatre; Ambassador, Association of Community Theatre; and the prestigious Fellow designation by the American Association of Community Theatre. She has served as Artistic Director, Actor and Director for the award-winning South City Theatre in Pelham since 2012.

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FRAN GILROY

PASTOR STEVE GREEN

Frances Gilroy is known as an excellent team player and leader who provides indispensable vision and proficiency to the Birmingham Zoo Volunteer Program. Her time is spent in many different areas in the Zoo - educating and improving the guest experience. Fran also serves in a leadership capacity on the Kiwanis Giraffe Encounter Platform working with guests, teen volunteers, adult volunteers, and everyone she comes in contact with. One of the Africa Keepers said that “despite being next to a giraffe on the giraffe platform, Fran is really the one that shines!”

Steve Green is the Pastor of More Than Conquerors Faith Church. He is also the founder of the R.E.S.P.E.C.T. (Respect Every Single Person Ever Created Today) Organization, a youth empowerment corporation, as well as the Annual Back-to-School Rally, the nation’s largest such event. Pastor Green, along with his church, has received several awards: the SCLC Keeper of the Dream; National Action Network Community Excellence Award; Key to the City Award from Birmingham, Dothan, and Jasper; and a street renamed in his honor. He has served the Board of Habitat for Humanity, the regional American Red Cross, Clear Channel Media, and the Jefferson County Commission’s Mural Committee.

DR. LEON C. HAMRICK

As a well-respected physician with Urology Centers of Alabama, Dr. Hamrick has 25 plus years in his field. Sometimes a work situation exemplifies a physician, and his sister, Catherine, shared this one: One night, she called around midnight and asked what he was doing. Dr. Hamrick told her he was sitting with a patient, to which Catherine said, “well he must be special for you to be there so late.”

Then came the response that his nominators believe is what makes him a great and caring human being, and not only a great surgeon.

“No,” Dr. Hamrick said, “He’s a stranger. I am covering for my colleague and this patient is alone and has no one to look after him.”

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EVANDER HOLYFIELD

GREGORY J. HARBER

If home is where the heart is, then certainly Greg has found a home in Birmingham. Inspired by the example of those who share his passion for birds and social justice, Greg has been active in the Birmingham Audubon Society for 32 years (president, newsletter editor, director of the Mountain Workshop, field trips and education); Dauphin Island Bird Sanctuaries for 22 years (past-president, vice president for conservation and newsletter editor) and director of Children’s Liturgy of the Word at Our Lady of Sorrows Church (30 years). Greg also volunteers with Redemptive Cycles in their community outreach efforts. He is employed at UAB.

Born to Annie Laura Holyfield and Isom Coley in 1962, Evander is an American boxer, the only four-time world Heavyweight Champion in the history of boxing, and one of the world’s most beloved athletes. Often referred to as “The Real Deal,” and known as “The Warrior,” Evander spent his career proving naysayers wrong and consistently beating opponents who were larger than him. His fights with Mike Tyson and Riddick Bowe are some of the most memorable and exciting fights the sport has ever seen.

Evander fought in the August 10, 1984 Los Angeles Olympic Games at the Memorial Sports Arena and was awarded a bronze medal that most believe should have been a gold if not for a highly controversial disqualification. Although other fighters were often larger and louder, few have ever matched his grace under pressure and his public poise or his commitment to serve and inspire others. As the founder of The Holyfield Foundation, an organization committed to serving underprivileged children, Evander seeks to help, encourage, and inspire others. Today he is a successful entrepreneur and has many endeavors to continue his legacy. His promotion company, Real Deal Boxing, has had a monumental start—with plans to become the number one boxing promotion company in the world.

KEN HUBBARD

Ken Hubbard is currently the CEO and owner of Western Supermarkets, a local independent grocer. He has spent his entire career with Western, starting as a bag boy while attending Ensley High School. He attended the University of Alabama and received a degree in accounting. He is active in his church and community, having served on various Boards including Alabama Goodwill, Alabama Retail Association, Boy Scouts, Blue Cross & Blue Shield and National Grocers Association.

Through Western, he supports the Jimmie Hale Mission, Emmett O’Neal Library, The Salvation Army and local schools. He has been married to his high school sweetheart, Patricia, for 52 years and they have three children and seven grandchildren.

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SPECIAL PROMOTION

ROY S. JOHNSON

Roy is a Columnist and Director of Content Development for AL.com, where he highlights ordinary Alabamians doing extraordinary things. He is a youth tutor and leader of the ACT Boot Camp hosted by Sixth Ave. Baptist Church.

As a producer, he helped bring ESPN and The Undefeated to Birmingham, where they taped “Dear Black Athlete,” the network’s Black History Month Special. Prior to al.com, he was the Founder of Savoy magazine and Editor in Chief for Men’s Fitness. He has produced TV specials such as NBC’s Sports Illustrated Swimsuit Model Search, and co-authored books with NBA stars Magic Johnson and Charles Barkley. Roy is also the Founder and President of Fit! Live! Win!

SUSAN JOHNSTON ROBYN JAMES Robyn James serves as the Marketing Director for the Middle Alabama Area Agency on Aging where she develops marketing campaigns, community partnerships, promotes advocacy, and educates the public on aging. Prior to this role, Robyn worked at the Alabama Department of Senior Services as the State Liaison for the Elder Abuse Prevention Council, developing education initiatives and policy to protect seniors from abuse, neglect, and exploitation. She also served as the Director of the State Health Insurance Assistance Program and Senior Medicare Patrol. Robyn is a trailblazer who has dedicated her career to advocating for older adults.

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Susan Johnston has been with Family Connection for 37 years and served as the Executive Director for 30 years. She holds a Master’s Degree in education from University of Montevallo and is certified in Nonprofit Management by the University of Wisconsin. Susan is a graduate of the Charter Leadership Shelby County Class, served on the board and is a past President of Leadership Shelby County. She serves on the National Safe Place Advisory Board and is a Peer Reviewer for the Standard of Excellence.

Susan resides in Cullman with her husband, Chuck, who serves on staff at First Baptist Cullman.

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LT. ANDREA KNIGHT

L. G. “BROTHER BUD” JONES Born L. G. Jones in Blount County in 1937, Bud grew up in a poor family where he gained from personal experience his allfarm

Lt. Andrea Knight has risen through the ranks of the Jefferson County Sheriff’s Department, starting at a time when few women were officers.

She currently serves as Lieutenant over Patrol in the Bessemer Cutoff region of the county. She has served in various divisions of the department over her 26 year tenure, including, but not limited to: patrol, as a detective in the violent crimes division, and as Lieutenant over the Jefferson County Jail. Lt. Knight has high standards of dedicated work, fairness and equal treatment under the law for every citizen, earning her respect within the department.

encompassing empathy for “the least, the last, and the lost.” The determination to minister to those people has characterized his efforts of a lifetime. He spent much of his adult life as a preacher, but at an age when many retire, Bud launched a new venture with an inner conviction that he was called to do more. To that end, he built in a decade the county’s major charitable and social services institution - Hope House - the last resort for all seasons and reasons for those who have no other place to turn.

ALAN V. KAUFMAN

Alan started playing golf at 11 years old, and it’s always been a part of his life. Most are familiar with his successful Wall St. Deli business that he originally called a “Stand and Snack.” His idea was to put locations in the lobbies of office buildings to capture busy people needing a quick lunch. By 1970 he had 12 locations in Birmingham and evolved into a national chain in major cities such as Chicago, Washington and Denver. At age 61, when most people would be looking towards retirement, he took over the UAB Men’s Golf Program to seven NCAA Regional appearances and four NCAA National appearances over the next 15 years. He coached famed Graeme McDowell, and saw the Blazers to their first-ever Conference USA championship.

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JOHN KRONTIRAS

In addition to his success with Nabeels Market and Restaurant, John has served two terms as the Secretary of the Homewood Chamber of Commerce. He is an original alumnus of the Homewood Police Academy and an International Director for the Homewood Rotary. John is a Board Member of the Alabama Restaurant and Hospitality Association, the Homewood Police Foundation and Library. He also serves as Secretary with the Homewood Library Foundation and as an Executive Vice President with the FBI Citizens Academy for 7 years. He is a member of the Holy Trinity Holy Cross Greek Orthodox Church.

JOE KNIGHT Serving his second term on the Jefferson County Commission, Joe is passionate about his district and the county.

He works with all 14 municipalities in his district and is the liaison for the Jefferson County EMA, E-911, and the Mayors’ Association. Excited about representing the county in Birmingham’s preparation for The World Games 2021, he recently attended The World Games in Poland to understand the scope of such an event.

Joe enjoys spending time at the area’s senior centers, sharing their music, fellowship and warmth. Knowing their service comes from the heart, he admires all who run these centers. Joe and his wife Caryl have three children and three grandchildren.

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DON LEO

Don is the Corporate Sales Manager for the Birmingham Barons, a position he says has been the best yet, filled with rewards. He says he “helps to build wonderful memories at Regions Field each night for the thousands who visit us every year!” His career has spanned radio, TV and work in Nascar. He is proud to call Birmingham his home from birth and is thrilled to have watched it turn into a world class community, filled with world class friends he claims as his own. His volunteer work includes several non profits, such as Cerebral Palsy, the Alabama Head Injury Foundation and the Make a Wish Foundation.

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T. L. LEWIS

As Pastor of Bethel, Dr. T. L. Lewis has formed the following three corporations as outgrowths of Bethel’s Ministry: Regional and Empowerment Development Center, Inc., (formerly Bethel Community Learning Center); Re-Creational Community Development, Inc.; and Greater Works, Inc. He is involved in numerous affairs vital to the progress of the city.

He served as Captain for the Bessemer Police and Fire Department Chaplaincy Corps, Chairman of the Board of Directors for Jefferson County Commission of Economic Opportunity from 2007 – 2013, and as Chairman of the Board of Directors for the Jefferson County Transit Authority.

ANDREA LINDENBERG

Andrea Lindenberg is going on 29 years of broadcasting in Birmingham. Most of those years were spent in television news as an Emmywinning anchor and Edward R. Murrow award-winning reporter. Now she’s a radio talk show host on Talk 99.5. Over the years, Andrea has dedicated time to Lovelady Center, Leukemia & Lymphoma Society, SafeHouse, Muscular Dystrophy Association, United Cerebral Palsy, Owens House and Birmingham Humane Society. Searching for the ultimate way to unplug from the news of the day, Andrea and her husband each bought a Jeep. They spend a lot of time off-roading with their four teenagers.

SUZANNE STIGLER MARTIN, PHD

Dr. Martin wants to end hunger and poverty and advocates through Bread for the World, Alabama Arise, and the Alliance for Responsible Lending in Alabama.

Suzanne “works” as a leadership consultant to support her volunteer habit, grateful that work has never felt like a “job.” The motto for her firm, transform., “Begins with listening, ends with change, ” describes how she shows up in every situation. Suzanne taught Samford student leaders for 20 years and college women for 7 years as Executive Director of Leading Edge Institute, seeking to “change the face of leadership in Alabama” Recently Suzanne showed up as “Viv” in Maggie’s Perfect Match at Virginia Samford Theatre.

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LINDA AND EVAN MAJOR

Linda and Evan have had a tremendous impact on the lives of students in Shelby County. They both served in various positions with Shelby County Board of Education for 35 and 41 years respectively. Evan finished his career as Superintendent of Schools and President of the Alabama School Superintendents’ Association. Linda completed her career as Shelby County Supervisor of Career Technical Education. In 1993, they started the Success Program at the Career Technical Center for At-Risk Students. They have served the Children’s Policy Council of Shelby County and Leadership Shelby through the years, and continue to volunteer now.

Linda and Evan have been married for 52 years.

PATRICIA BALDONE NARO Patricia has served as a faculty member and Director of Experiential Education at Samford University’s McWhorter School of Pharmacy since 2010. She has taught hundreds of students. Patricia is instrumental in obtaining clinical affiliations, giving students the opportunity to learn from educators in the U.S., Asia, South America, and Europe. She holds memberships in numerous pharmacy organizations and was recognized as Faculty Member of the Year by the Alabama Pharmacy Association. Patricia is a sustaining member of the Junior League of Birmingham, a member of the Legacy League of Samford University and the American Heart Association’s Circle of Red.

JACK “PAT” PATRICK Pat has worked his entire life and continues today.

Not only is he a retired high school English teacher, he continues to entertain audiences with his Panama Jack and the Hangouts Band throughout Birmingham. One might have to say his greatest contribution in life, in addition to his family, is his ongoing recognition of high school football through his “Best in Friday Night Football” radio broadcast each year. After more than 30 years on the radio, and occasionally on television, he continues to highlight these dedicated young people, and most years, his company celebrates with a banquet in their honor.

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DICK PIGFORD Dick Pigford, an architect with a heart for the comco-founded the community service groups munity, in Ensley (B.E.A.T) and Kingston to help re-establish

resident leadership. Dick established SawWorks in 1998, a space for community collaboration and nonprofit groups such as Friends of Railroad Park and SpeakFirst. Dick has worked with Sixteenth Street Baptist Church to preserve this Civil Rights landmark and Morningstar Baptist Church, which was burned by arsonists in 2006. He has served on the Boards of Region 2020, Cahaba River Society, Birmingham Center for Affordable Housing, and Regional Cultural Alliance.

DR. JOHN A. E. PLUMP

Dr. Plump is quite a virtuoso as he is an educator, author, and empowerment specialist. For 26 years, he has labored as a teacher and school administrator in the local public schools as a social science teacher, football and softball coach, an alternative school principal, and briefly as acting principal of Jackson Olin High. He now serves as Assistant Principal of Jackson-Olin High. He is the CEO of Plump Educational Consulting Services, and is the author of two books. Dr. Plump holds membership in the National Alliance of Black School Educators and Phi Delta Kappa Educational Honors Fraternity. He and his wife Sonya have two girls, Jhana and Jalyn.

DR. DAVID ROWLAND Dr. Rowland served as President and later as Chancellor Walker College from 1956 through 1995.

He hasOfserved the Officers Association, Industrial Development Board, Alabama Surface Mining Commission and the Walker County Senior Resource Council. He has received various honors throughout his career including the Paul Harris Fellow, The Silver Beaver Award and the Alabama Senior Hall of Fame.

In recent years he has spent his time volunteering at local non-profit agencies and developing real estate.

He has been instrumental in revitalizing downtown Jasper. Most recently, he had an Interstate 22 Bridge dedicated in his name.

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BOBBY JOE SEALES Bobby Joe Seales is the keeper of Shelby County’s most historic treasures, but if you ask most anyone in Shelby County, or the state of Alabama, for that matter, Bobby Joe is a treasure himself.

Retired as Executive Director of the Shelby County Museum and Archives, he is active with the Alabama Society of the Sons of the American Revolution, the National Society of the Sons of the American Revolution, the Alabama Cemetery Preservation Alliance, the Friends of the Alabama Archives Board, the Good Citizenship Medal and Certificate and the Alabama Association of Historians. state promoting the 200th Alabama Bicentennial.

JEANETTE SMITH Jeanette has been a achiever all her life.

She received The Austin Cup - given to the outstanding business graduate at University of Alabama. She was a vital member of First Methodist Church, contributing in various capacities including teaching Sunday School and serving as board member of North Alabama Methodist Foundation. In 2006 as a consequence of losing her beloved son in an auto accident, she established The Samuel Lee Smith Advised Fund. This fund helps local financial disadvantaged and special needs children. She taught a free art and reading program for five years and received The Jasper Community Service Award.

PATTI MUNGENAST SMITH Patti was born into a military family of seven boys and seven girls.

She blazed a trail for female attorneys in Shelby County as the first female Assistant District Attorney and the first female District Court Judge. She finished out her 34-year legal career with a six-year term on the Alabama Supreme Court. In retirement she volunteers with the Diocese of Birmingham and Saint Mark the Evangelist. Her latest project is acquiring gently used clothing for the Birmingham Catholic Center of Concern near Legion Field, Holy Rosary Catholic Church in Gate City and Forgotten Children Ministries in Honduras.

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JOYCE T. SPIELBERGER

Joyce is the Interim Executive Director of the Birmingham Holocaust Education Center, dedicated to teaching the lessons of the Holocaust. She is the former Executive Director of Magic Moments. For eleven years, Joyce served as Director of Community Relations for the Birmingham Jewish Federation, creating interfaith and cultural dialogue groups widely acclaimed and serving as models in other communities. Her current Board service includes CJFS and HICA. She also serves on Leadership Birmingham’s Executive Council.

In 2017, Joyce received the distinguished NCCJ Brotherhood/ Sisterhood Award. Joyce is married to Maury Shevin and has two sons, Richard and Mitchell Spielberger.

STEPHEN R. STEINMETZ, M.D.

Dr. Steinmetz is a practicing Plastic Surgeon in Birmingham. He graduated from University of Alabama School of Medicine in 1984 and has been in practice for over 25 years. He and his wife Stephanie are raising 2 sons, Charlie and Jack. Dr. Steinmetz’s nominator says “Both of their children are truly a testament to what wonderful people they are. Dr. Steinmetz is one of the most compassionate and caring surgeons I have ever had the pleasure to work with. His dedication to his patients and his willingness to drop everything when a patient is in need is rare.”

LETHA STUCKEY Letha is the Director of Quality Control for Camp Fire. She grew up in Atmore, where her father was the Escambia County Circuit Judge and her mother was the high school English teacher and principal. Letha’s experience spans over 50 years and includes social work, establishing Durham, N.C. Watts Hospital’s first Social Services Department. She served as President and CEO of Stuckey’s Office Equipment, Inc. and held management positions for Alabama’s Department of Public Health, Department of Children’s Affairs, and the Department of Senior Services. She retired in 2016, and continues serving others and communities through the work of Camp Fire and Camp Fletcher.

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DR. WAYNE VICKERS Dr. Vickers has more than 27 years’ experience as a teacher and administrator in Alabama public school districts. He has served as principal at the elementary, middle and high school levels, with additional experience at the district and state level. In 2013, he was the first superintendent for the newly-formed Alabaster City School System with over 6,000 students across six campuses. Now, he is leading a $100 million construction project with plans for a new high school facility. Dr. Vickers is married to Pamela Copeland Vickers, and they have two sons, Jordan, a student at UA and Will, a student at Thompson High School.

CHRIS D. WALKER Chris worked at the Jefferson County Department of Human Resources for 20 years before taking a position at UAB as the BSW Field Director for 18 years. During her career, she has provided services for the Fresh Air Farm Program, a non-profit program in Birmingham for low-income families and children at-risk; provided afterschool programs to address children’s needs in school; has been a consultant with Kindred Care Hospices and Serenity Palliative/Hospice Care; served on the Boards of Directors at the Exchange Club Family Skills Center and Advisory Council for Positive Maturity Senior Companion Program.

DONNA WHITLOCK Donna is a retired registered nurse who worked at Brookwood Baptist and UAB Medicine for over 20 years. She now fills her time helping others. She volunteers at My Sisters Closet, and helps those in the Birmingham area and outside the state by donating and collecting items and getting others to do the same. She also travels abroad and assists people in other countries. She takes pride in her neighborhood and picks up trash daily. Donna is also very active and walks several miles daily, bikes and works out. Her nominator adds, “She has a beautiful spirit and loving heart.”

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AMANDA WILSON Amanda has lived in Birmingham for 39 years and worked as a speech pathologist at Lakeshore Rehabilitation Hospital until her retirement. After her son came out as gay, Amanda became very involved in PFLAG (Parents, Families and Friends of Lesbians and Gays) and has been Executive Director of the organization since 2011. The issue of family acceptance is Amanda’s driving passion. She has also been active in: Magic City Acceptance Project, The LGBTQ Fund, of which she is now chair of the Advisory Board, T.A.K.E. (Transgender, Awareness, Knowledge and Education), The Cash For College program of Alabama Possible, and Leadership Birmingham.

JIM WINDSOR

Jim has worked with the Greater Birmingham Convention & Visitors Bureau for 20 years. In his position as Director of Web Marketing, he addresses an international community about Birmingham and the many reasons travelers should visit the city. He has completed a new website for the CVB that includes extensive information on the Birmingham area’s many neighborhoods, giving tourists details on experiencing the city in full. Jim is also “the voice of Birmingham” through his use of social media. His work with the CVB contributes significantly to the $4.1 billion annual economic impact of tourism on the Birmingham area.

DALE WISELY PH.D. Dr. Wisely has been a child and adolescent psychologist 36 years, and is the current Director of StudentforServices at Mountain Brook Schools. He

participated in the training and mentorship of many psychologists in the Birmingham area. A passionate advocate for the safety and well-being of youth, Dr. Wisely has worked on awareness and prevention of teen suicide, underage drinking and drug abuse and prevention of motor vehicle accidents among teenagers. He is a busy and popular speaker for both professional and lay audiences. He has served on multiple non-profit boards.

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MIKE VEST

In addition to his current two-term Shelby County Commissioner position, Mike serves as the Executive Director of the Addiction Prevention Coalition. He has been an Executive Director of the Birmingham Athletic Partnership, Executive Director of the Governor’s Commission on Physical Fitness & Sports, and Community & Corporate Relations Director at Knight Eady Sports Group. He has served on several boards, including Positive Maturity; BBBS of Greater Birmingham & Shelby County (past chairman; Governor’s Commission on Physical Fitness & Sports (past chairman); A. G. Gaston Boys & Girls Clubs; and The DAY Program.

WILLIAM M. MILLER AWARD LOIS (MAMA) COLEMAN FOUNDER In the mid-1980s, Lois Coleman began taking abandoned girls into her own home. Soon she was called “Mama Lois.” Mama Lois had a vision: to open a village of homes for girls in foster care. In 1992, at age 69, Mama Lois opened the first home on the Grace House campus. Grace House has grown to include eight properties, four of them homes with room for 28 girls ages six to twenty-one. While retired from day to day operations, Mama Lois still loves to visit Grace House and share her love and wisdom with the girls that call it home.

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​2017.18 BOARD OF DIRECTORS BIANCA ALLEN- PRESIDENT RETIRED, BELLSOUTH GARY HETZEL- VICE PRESIDENT BATES & HETZEL PC WANDA MCKOY- TREASURER, CHAIR TOP 50 OVER 50 EP&P LYNN KLINNER- SECRETARY RETIRED BRETT SCHAFFER- MEMBER AT LARGE REGIONS BANK CHERIE WOODARD RSVP VOLUNTEER KELLIE MOMAN ASPIRE RANDOLPH FOWLER ACIPCO KATHRYN BRUGGE SOUTHERN FINANCIAL GROUP RYAN ROBNETT COMFORCARE HOME HEALTH JANE KOEHLER RETIRED TRACY CAUSEY DRAYER PHYSICAL THERAPY CRYSTAL CRIM MIDDLE ALABAMA AREA AGENCY ON AGING TONI WILSON ANESTHESIOLOGY AND ASSOCIATES JENNIFER HALL COMMUNITY ADVOCATE JESTINA HOWARD BIRMINGHAM MUSEUM OF ART KEVIN COLLINS REGIONS BANK BRENDA LADUN ABC 33/40 JOHN EPPENGER RETIRED, BELLSOUTH

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