Over the Mountain Journal March 10, 2011 by Over the Mountain Journal

OVER THE MOUNTAIN

J O U R N A L THE SUBURBAN NEWSPAPER FOR MOUNTAIN BROOK, HOMEWOOD, VESTAVIA HILLS, HOOVER, AND NORTH SHELBY COUNTY MARCH 10, 2011

Rotaract Club of Birmingham members and area young professionals will don masks, tuxedos and formal gowns for Rotaract’s annual Masquerade Ball March 19. See About Town, page 4.

For some people, running a 10K would be on life’s todo list, but for Sean Dickson, that’s a Tuesday – and it’s just a warm-up to his daily workout.See Life, page 10.

Magical Night for the

Krewe Ball Reigning over this year’s Beaux Arts Krewe Ball were king Schuyler Allen Bradley Baker Jr. and queen Bess Bouchelle Ager, above. At right, Livy and Emily Dunn were among those serving as train bearers at this year’s festivities. See Social, page 21.

The Birmingham Association of Realtors is celebrating its centennial year this year with the theme: “100 Years of Opening Doors.” See Home, page 20.

2 • THURSDAY, MARCH 10, 2011

CONTENTS/OPINION

OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL

MURPHY’S LAW

Leadership Vestavia Hills recognizes the city’s Citizens of the Year at a Feb. 24 Banquet, page 8.

B S

OTMJ.COM

rowse through even more photos from social events and parties.

hare your good news. Recently married or engaged? Send us your announcement. Just click on “forms, issues & info” at the top of the page and fill out the form.

lan your weekends. Our events calendar at otmj.com has even more options for what to do in the Over the Mountain area. Got an event that’s not listed, send it to us to post on our events calendar.

oin the conversation. Register at otmj.com to make comments on stories and events, and follow us on Facebook for updates on what going on at the Journal.

Need a vacation but don’t want to spend all your money on gas getting there? We have some great staycation ideas in our next issue.

F E AT U R E S ABOUT TOWN PEOPLE LIFE SOCIAL

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HOME WEDDINGS SCHOOLS SPORTS

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JOU RNAL

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March 10, 2011

Publisher: Maury Wald Editor: Laura McAlister Features Writer: Donna Cornelius Office Manager: Christy Wald Editorial Assistant: Stacie Galbraith Sports: Lee Davis Contributors: Susan Murphy, Bones Long, Cary Estes, June Mathews, Emil Wald, Marvin Gentry Advertising Sales: Suzanne Wald, Julie Trammell Edwards, Tommy Wald Editorial Intern: Martha A. Blanton Vol. 20, No. 5

Over The Mountain Journal is a suburban bi-weekly newspaper delivered to more than 40,000 households in the Mountain Brook, Homewood, Vestavia Hills, Hoover and North Shelby County areas. Hot Property is a paid advertisement. Subscriptions for The Journal are available for $24 yearly. Mail to: Over the Mountain Journal, P.O. Box 660502, Vestavia Hills, AL 35216. Phone: (205) 823-9646. E-mail the editorial department at editorial@otmj.com. E-mail our advertising department at ads@otmj.com. Find us on the Web at otmj.com. Copyright 2010 Over The Mountain Journal, Inc. All rights reserved. The Journal is not responsible for return of photos, copy and other unsolicited materials submitted. To have materials returned, please specify when submitting and provide a stamped, self-addressed envelope. All materials submitted are subject to editorial review and may be edited or declined without notification.

Bless Us Every One

op o’ the morning one of those overseas hired-out salespeople who tell to ye! It’s almost St. you that they’re calling to thank you for being such Patrick’s Day, my a good customer and then launch right into trying to husband Harold’s favorite wring another nickel out of your goodness. day of the year, mostly May the traffic lights fall in your favor, green if because it’s his birthday. you’re in a hurry and red if you really need a moment He insists he was five years to blow your nose. May you never be stuck in single old before he realized that lane construction traffic behind a garbage truck. the world was not strung May that wind at your back never take out a chunk with green crepe paper on of your roof tiles or thrust a tipsy pine tree through March 17th just for him. your living room window, or if it does, may your In grand Irish tradition, insurance agent really, truly have you in good hands Susan Murphy Harold took Patrick for his or covered under the big umbrella or be ready to send middle name, which was in the duck or the gecko or whatever it takes to fill fitting, but also an appeasement your home with laughter once to the good sisters at the St. again. May your good times be Joseph’s Hospital who were so Come tax time, may your upset that his mother did not deductions pass without commany and your troubles be ment and your christen him Patrick that they refund return few. May the wind be always to you on a fast and friendly refused to fill in his birth certificate at all. Never mess with breeze. May your credit card at your back, unless that Sister Mary Louis. know no limits and your intermeans it would inadvertently est payments be few. May you Me? I’m an ancestral mutt, a genetic mixture of distinctly have correct change gust up under your skirt and always unheralded origin. I became for the vending machine and Irish only by marriage, which enough actual cash in your walembarrass you on a public means that I get to cook the let to buy a box of Girl Scout thoroughfare. corned beef and cabbage but cookies when they’re selling lost out on the “Luck o’ the them outside Walmart. Irish” that has allowed Harold May fat grams pass by you to squeak by for so many years. His off-road antics and calories pay you no heed. May your aerobics are considered good-natured fun. Mine would be instructor completely forget the words, “Give me one slapped with a class two misdemeanor. That’s the way more set.” it goes. May your computer never crash and the wind at your back never take out your TV cable during the Being only an Irish convert, I will never be authorized to drop a pot of gold in your lap, but I can still Alabama-Auburn game. Come to think about it, I send a wee Irish-by-marriage blessing your way. It think we should forget about that wind at your back may bounce off into the circular Blarney file, but it entirely. couldn’t hurt to try. Let’s see ... we’ve covered finances and fat grams OK, here goes ... and natural disasters ... oh yeah, may your days be May your good times be many and your troubles joyful and your friendships true blue, and when you be few. May the wind be always at your back, unless complete your earthly time and find yourself running that means it would inadvertently gust up under your toward heaven’s gate, may the good Lord hold the skirt and embarrass you on a public thoroughfare. plane for you and offer you an aisle seat. In business May your cell phone never incur roaming charges, class. and when it rings, may it always be a friend and not Happy St. Patrick’s Day! ❖

OVER THE MOUNTAIN VIEWS

Crestline Elementary students share their dream spring break trip.

“I would go to France and eat yummy food.” Layne Stone Crestline

“I would like to go to Panama and help people in need.” Claire Kindsvater Crestline

“I would go to Hawaii and surf.” Jay Dankey Crestline

“I would go to Whistler, Canada and go skiing before the snow melts.” Will Jackson Crestline

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Dogs can enjoy “Yappy Hour” with other dogs and have photos made. Guests can learn how dogs are being rescued while others are helping humans through service at war and as first responders. Cost per dog is $10, $3 of which benefits the Shelby County Humane Society. Food and drinks will be available from Full Moon Bar-B-Que. Visit www.aldridgegarden.com for more information on any of the events.

Shades Crest Baptist Hosts Arts, Crafts Fair

Spring Fashions Will Benefit Furry Friends

Shades Crest Baptist Church, 452 Park Ave. in Bluff Park, will host an arts and crafts fair March 26 from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Tables are available for a $20 donation. Proceeds will benefit the church’s young women’s mission trip. Crafters may call the church office, 822-1360, to register. Contact Mary Swedenburg at 403-9941 for more information.

Milo’s Famous Tea Co. will present the Greater Birmingham Humane Society Auxiliary’s annual spring fashion show and luncheon April 13 at the Cahaba Grand Conference Center. The show features Belk’s largest showcase of its spring line in the Southeast. Doors will open at 10 a.m. so guests can enjoy a cash bar while shopping at the silent auction

THURSDAY, MARCH 10, 2011 • 3

until lunch begins. The event also includes a live auction featuring four packages, including a fiveday stay in a Gulf Shores condo. Valet parking will be provided. Tickets are $50 each or $500 for a table of 10. Buy tickets online at www.GBHSauxiliary. org, or mail a check to GBHSA Fashion Show, 300 Snow Dr., Birmingham, AL 35209. For more information, call 970-1669. Proceeds will benefit the Greater Birmingham Humane Society. ❖

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Aldridge Gardens Executive Director Rip Weaver and his dog Kida are ready for the upcoming Paws in the Gardens. Photo special to the Journal

Spring Events Bloom At Aldridge Gardens

Aldridge Botanical Gardens will host several events this month, including a spring plant sale March 11 and 12. Featured plants include shrubs, groundcovers and native plants. Sale hours are noon to 5 p.m. on Friday and 9 a.m. to noon Saturday. Members receive a 15 percent discount on Friday and a 10 percent discount on Saturday. Aldridge Gardens will again host Hooks in the Gardens for children during spring break. The garden will open its six-acre lake March 14-18 from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. daily for kids ages 4 to 15 to fish. Daily passes are $5; passes for all five days are $10. There is no charge for children and grandchildren of members. Professional fishermen will be on hand March 18 to answer questions and give one-on-one instruction and assistance. Fred Bland will conduct 20-minute fishing classes throughout the day. Boats from Airport Marine will be on display. There will also be prizes and giveaways provided by Eagle Claw and Pradco, including 10 rods and reels and a free fishing day with fishing pro Lloyd Smith. Event sponsor WZZK will be there with a live remote. Several rods and reels will be available for check-out at no charge on a first-come, firstserved basis. All children must be accompanied by an adult. Aldridge Gardens is “going to the dogs” March 26 from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. with Paws in the Gardens. Participants can bring pets to the gardens for a day of fun and information on keeping dogs safe and healthy and on obedience, grooming, leash control, vaccinations and more.

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4 • THURSDAY, MARCH 10, 2011

ABOUT TOWN

rouble finding fashionable shoes in your size? Do you have small or large feet? Wear a narrow or a wide? Ladies, look no further. Marmi shoes at the Summit Shopping Center HAS YOUR SIZE! Marmi regularly stocks a large selection of styles in sizes 4-12; many in widths slim to wide. “We have lots of cute shoes and we will help you find the perfect fit!” says Manager Lou Ann Sandford. Whether you are searching for the perfect pump, a ballet flat or a strappy sandal- Marmi has a style for every customer. The well-trained sales staff is always friendly and willing to help every customer find the perfect fit. Marmi sells upscale brands such as Vaneli, Sesto Meucci, Eric Javits and Barefoot Originals. Marmi Shoes is owned by Wolff Shoe Company of St. Louis, MO. Wolff is a fourth generation, family owned, company with a long history in manufacturing and sell-

Getting ready for the Rotaract’s Masquerade Ball are front, from left: Sarah Peinhardt, Niki Harris and Carly Jayne Rullman; and in back, from left: Will Aycock, Virginia Quigley, Justin Rogers, Liz Harris and Andrew Case. Photo special to the Journal

Rotaract Club Presents Masquerade Ball

Rotaract Club of Birmingham members and area young professionals will don masks, tuxedos and formal gowns for Rotaract’s annual Masquerade Ball March 19 from 8 p.m. to midnight. The black tie event will be at

UAB’s Alys Stephens Center. Rick Carter and the League of Legendary Artists, a Southern soul group, will provide live music. A silent auction will include signed sports memorabilia, vacations and dining packages from Birmingham restaurants. All proceeds from the ball will benefit the Rotaract Club

'We have lots of cute shoes and we will help you find the perfect fit!' ing shoes. As a result they understand the importance of providing quality products at a great value. The exceptionally knowledgeable sales staff and boutique atmosphere will have you feeling at home in no time. The eclectic styles, vast array of heel heights and large selection of sizes have made this shoe boutique a fast favorite of stylish women across Birmingham. Visit the store to find styles that fit you and your lifestyle!

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OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL

of Birmingham Foundation. The foundation funds the award-winning Ready 2 Read program, which places libraries in every second grade classroom in Birmingham, and also supports monthly service projects for the Ronald McDonald House, Jimmie Hale Mission and Habitat for Humanity. Since its founding, Rotaract has raised $275,000 for its foundation. Passes to the ball are $50 before March 14 and $60 after that date or at the door. Tickets can be purchased from any Rotaract member or online at www.bhammask.com. Entry includes hors d’oeuvres by Kathy G Catering, wine and beer. A cash bar also will be available. For more information on the ball or Rotaract, visit www. bhammask.com.

Rotary Club Plans 20th Annual Gala

The North Shelby-Inverness Rotary Club’s 20th annual Gala will be April 2 at the Cahaba Grand Conference Center. Celebrating the club’s 25 years of community service, the 2011 event will honor the spirit of youth. Chelsea Middle School and Shelby Baptist Medical Center are event partners. Shelby Baptist’s new Neo-Natal Intensive Care facility and Chelsea Middle School are beneficiaries along with Children’s Hospital Care Flight Service, whose Bell helicopter bears the Rotary International shield. The gala will feature a cocktail hour, seated dinner, live music and dancing. Silent and live auction items include a Park City ski getaway, an “instant” wine cellar and LASIK surgery. Tickets are $250 a couple; tables for 10 start at $1,500. The Hoover Belles, Booming Baby Boomer Band and professional auctioneer Jack Granger will participate in the event. For ticket and sponsorship information, visit www.northshelbyrotary.org or call 9806425.

Kristin Woods and Ted Burns �� were among �� guests having a �� ball at last year’s �� North ShelbyInverness Rotary �� Club Gala. Photo ��

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Mad Hatter Party Planned for March 10

The second annual Mad Hatter Party will be March 10 from 7 to 11 p.m. at the Matt Jones Gallery. The event will raise funds for Children’s Dance Foundation’s Community Partnership Program, which provides weekly dance classes to 1,000 children and young people at social service agencies, child development centers and Birmingham area schools. CDF’s School Touring Program, which provides the academically-linked professional performance Math in Motion at Alabama schools, will also benefit. The party will feature music by D.J. Karen Day, food by Urban Cookhouse and desserts by Little Savannah. There also will be games, raffles and a silent auction. Guests are invited to wear “crazy hats” for the chance to win a “mad” price. Tickets, $25 in advance or $30 at the door, can be purchased at www.cdf.eventbrite. com or by calling 870-0073.

Pour ’Em for Purim Set for March 19

The Birmingham Jewish Federation will present You Belong in Birmingham’s Pour ’Em for Purim costume party March 19 from 8:30 p.m. to 12:30 a.m. at Ted’s Garage. The event includes light desserts, hamantaschens (traditional Purim pastries) and a special appearance by Dreamcakes. Music will be provided by DJ on Call. Purim is a festival commemorating the deliverance of the Jewish people in the ancient Persian empire from Haman the Agagite’s plot to annihilate them, according to the Book of Esther. The event is open to the public, but guests must be 21 or older. Cover charge is $10 with a cash bar. Costumes are recommended but not required. ❖

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ABOUT TOWN

OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL

breakfast and egg hunt at 9:30 a.m. For more information, visit www.sothl.org or call 995-9673.

Communion from 7 to 7:30 p.m. Palm Sunday, April 17: Worship services at 8:30 and 11 a.m.; Sunday school at 9:30 a.m. Maundy Thursday, April 21: Communion service at noon; communion service and drama at 7 p.m. Good Friday, April 22: Stations of the Cross at noon and 6 p.m.; Tenebrae (service of shadows) at 7 p.m. Easter Sunday, April 24: Worship services at 5:30 a.m., 8:30 a.m. and 11 a.m.; Easter

‘Wuthering Heights’ Set at Theatre Downtown

Theatre Downtown will present “Wuthering Heights” April 14-May 1 at Fifth Avenue Antiques, 2410 Fifth Ave. South. The play adaptation by

Kenny Morris, who will also direct, is based on the classic novel by Emily Bronte. Show times are at 8 p.m. Thurs.-Sun. Adult tickets are $15 online or $17 at the door. Senior, student and group tickets are $10. Call 306-1470 or visit www.theatredowntown.org for more information. Opening night is “Hobo Night.” Those who attend may pay what they can afford, with a $7 minimum.❖

MONEY-SAVING ENERGY EFFICIENCY TIP No.50 Participants in this year’s Swine and Wine include, front, from left: Clif and Maureen Holt with Little Savannah and Beth and Rusty Tucker with Rusty’s Barbeque; middle row from left are: Nick Nicholson with Mafiaoza’s Pizzaria and Antony Osborne with Culinard Institute; and back row from left: Thomas Robey with Veranda on Highland, Jonathan Thomas with Grassroots Wine, Edwin Marty with Jones Valley Urban Farm, Sinead Maher with Green Building Focus, Chris Vizzina with Campus Dining Inc. and James Smith with Green Building Focus.

Swine and Wine Supper Benefits Jones Valley Urban Farm

Little Savannah Restaurant and Bar will present the third annual Swine and Wine Twilight Supper March 20. All proceeds will go to Jones Valley Urban Farm. The pig roast and supper at Old Car Heaven begins at 4:30 p.m. and ends at dark. It will feature chefs Clifton Holt of Little Savannah, Tom Robey of Veranda on Highland and Stephen Stryjewski of Cochon in New Orleans. Other participating chefs include: Chef Jonathon ‘Rusty’ Tucker of Rusty’s Barbeque, Antony Osborne and students from the Culinard, Ryan Hagemann of Whole Foods Market, Nick Nicholson of Mafiaoza’s, Chris and Laura Zapalowski of Homewood Gourmet, Chris and Leah Harrigan of Stone’s Throw, Haller MaGee of Satterfield’s, Chef Chris Vizzina of Campus Dining Inc. and the Warnock Family. Wines will be hosted by Grassroots Wines, featuring Lucas and Lewellen Vineyards. Good People Brewing and Birmingham Budweiser are providing beer. Lou Wamp & Swing Shift from Chattanooga, Tenn., will perform bluegrass music. Tickets are $50 at the door or $45 in advance. Children 12 years old and under are admitted free. Tickets for ages 13-20 are $25 at the door and $20 in advance. Identification will be required at the entrance. Tickets can be purchased in advance at www.jvuf.com.

Kanawahala Center Hosts Open House

Kanawahala Program Center (KPC) will hold an open house

Journal photo by Laura McAlister

March 27 from 2 to 4 p.m. Parents and children can explore KPC’s summer camp offerings and participate in activities. Those who attend are invited to bring fishing rods to fish on Lake Alice (no live minnows), try archery and see the camp on the Hayless Hayride. KPC has summer camp programs available to boys and girls. The center is at 831 Girl Scout Rd. off U.S. 280 in Chelsea on 600 acres of land. It includes a 40-acre private lake and junior Olympicsized swimming pool. Other activities include mountain biking and a 35-foot climbing tower with attached high and low ropes course elements. Resident campers will learn to ride and care for horses. Creative camps include cake decorating, tiedying clothes or making jewelry. Resident camps are available only to girls, while day camps are open to girls and boys. Register online at www. girlscoutsnca.org/camps. For information on KPC, call 800-734-4541, ext. 1601, or visit www.girlscoutsnca.org/kpc.

Shepherd of the Hills Plans Prayer Around the Cross for Lent

Shepherd of the Hills Lutheran Church on Valleydale Road will host Prayer around the Cross, a series of midweek services and meals for Lent. The worship series begins March 9, Ash Wednesday, with Imposition of Ashes from noon to 12:30 p.m. and 7 to 7:45 p.m. The community is invited to attend. The schedule includes: March 16-April 13: Midday meditation from noon to 12:25 p.m., followed by a light lunch; soup supper at 6:15 p.m.; candlelight evening prayer and Holy

KNOW THE FACTS ABOUT FILTERS. By David S. Stewart Alabama Power Company

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3/4/11 1:27 PM

6 • THURSDAY, MARCH 10, 2011

ABOUT TOWN

ues through Good Friday, April 22. The Advent’s Lenten series has been serving the Birmingham business district and surrounding communities for decades by feeding the body and soul. Last year more than 6,500 lunches were served. The proceeds have been distributed to many mission programs both locally and globally supported by the Advent. The Advent is located on the corner of 20th Street and Sixth Avenue North. Everyone is welcome. Visit www.adventbirmingham.org for more information on the series.

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OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL

Preparing for The Cathedral Church of the Advent’s annual Lenton Preaching Series are from left: Fontaine Pope, the Rev. Frank F. Limehouse III, Eleanor Estes and Marian Phillips. Photo special to the Journal

Series Celebrates 103 Years of Weekday Lenten Services

The Cathedral Church of the Advent celebrates 103 years of weekday services during Lent with its 2011 Lenten Preaching Series. The series will again feature faithful preachers from all over the world. Each noonday service is immediately followed by the Advent’s famous homemade lunches served at a modest price. This is the longest continual ��

weekday series in the country. Many people from downtown and the adjoining suburbs join together at this interdenominational service for a time of reflection and fellowship as a peaceful break from their workdays leading up to Easter. The 25-minute service starts at 12:05 p.m. beginning Ash Wednesday, March 9 and contin-

Bronner Is Honoree of James Bond Gala

ROAR Fundraising Committee and Southeast Cancer Foundation will honor Dr. David Bronner, CEO of the Retirement Systems of Alabama, April 16 at its first James Bond Gala. Bronner’s accomplishments include Alabama’s Robert Trent Jones Golf Trail, a collection of 26 championship golf courses at 11 sites. The trail has helped increase tourism in the state from a $1.8 billion to a $9.6 billion industry.

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�� Committee chairmen for the James Bond Gala include, front, from left: �� Honey Miller, Sheila Verciglio and Julie Kim. Back: Glenda Sparacio, Yvonne Pope, Denise Nichols and Pat Starr. Photo special to The Journal ��

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2912 6th Ave. So • 324.0566 Mon-Sat 9:00-5:00 • Sun. 1:00-5:00 libbysplantodyssey.com

The gala’s theme is “A View to a Cure.” Included are a silent auction, live auction by Jack Granger, dinner and dancing to the Pat Patrick Orchestra. Funds raised will go to the advancement of cancer research and education in the area of Personalized Cancer Medicine, a revolutionary cancer treatment breakthrough. Last year, ROAR raised more than $365,000 for cancer research lab equipment for the department of radiation oncology at the UAB Hazelrig-Salter Radiation Oncology Center. For reservations or more information, contact Yvonne Pope at 967-9488 or visit www. curecancer@bellsouth.net.

Seasoned Performers Throw Birthday Bash

The Seasoned Performers, with Jack’s Hamburgers and WVTM, Alabama’s 13, are throwing a Baby Boomer Birthday Bash March 27 at 3 p.m. at the Virginia Samford Theatre. The party also posthumously honors “Cousin Cliff” Holman, who hosted local Boomer birthday parties on air. Holman, after being stricken with Alzheimer’s disease, died Sept. 8, 2008 The event’s honorary host is Jerry Tracey, chief meteorologist for WVTM. Jack’s Hamburgers, which sponsored Cousin Cliff’s shows for many years, will be serving burgers and shakes at a reception on stage after the performance. Norton Dill and the Dill Pickers will headline a combination of Holman’s show and 1950s and ’60s TV variety entertainment. Other acts include the trio Something Else, ventriloquist Rosa Feltman, magician Arch Duncan, the Showstoppers dance troupe, Children’s Dance Foundation dancers, comedians, singers and more. Celebrity emcees Bill Bolen, Rosemary Lucas, Greg Bass and Courtney Haden will reminisce about Holman and his days on the air. Everett Holle, former manager and producer at Channel 13, will present Holman’s wife Ann, daughter Lynn and son Kyle with a Silver Pepper award. The Baby Boomer Birthday Bash will feature Holman’s homemade puppet pals Kim and Corky and balloon hats created by his son Kyle. Proceeds from the event will benefit the Seasoned Performers. Tickets, $45 in advance and $60 at the door, include a backstage reception where guests can meet the Holman family and the performers. For more information, call 978-5095. To buy tickets, visit www.virginiasamfordtheatre.org or call 251-1228. ❖

OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL

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THURSDAY, MARCH 10, 2011 • 7

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Members of The Gala planning committee include, from left: Ann Rast, Laura Canterbury, Morgan Cook, Taylor Davis, Angel Finch, Katherine Taylor and Erin Donohoo.

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Photo special to the Journal

Childress Returns to Kick Off 2011 Signature Series

To raise necessary funds to help battle illiteracy, The Literacy Council’s longest running and most popular fundraiser – the Signature Series – returns this year. To celebrate its 20th Anniversary, The Literacy Council will kick off the 2011 Signature Series with the Alabama native who got it all started—Mark Childress. The event will celebrate his latest Mark Childress literary masterpiece, “Georgia Bottoms,” and will be at a private home on Birmingham’s Southside March 14 starting at 6:30 p.m. Tickets are $150 a person for a single event or $400 a person for Signature Series season tickets, which includes all three author receptions. Every year, the Signature Series brings three prominent authors to Birmingham for private receptions in some of Birmingham’s most beautiful homes. Patrons spend the evening mingling with the author and receive a signed first edition of their latest work. Past authors include Cokie Roberts, Kathryn Stockett, Tracy Chevalier, Richard North Patterson, Charlton Heston and Rick Bragg. For tickets and more information visit www.literacy-council.

org or call (205) 326-1925 or 1888-448-7323.

Community Invited to TACA Meeting

Talk about Curing Autism (TACA) will host a community meeting March 26 from 2 to 4 p.m. at Brookwood Baptist Church. Dr. Julie Buckley will be the guest speaker. A graduate of the University of Miami School of Medicine and the Jackson Memorial Hospital/ University of Miami Pediatric Residency Program, Buckley implemented an integrative/functional medicine approach into her pediatric practice after her daughter regressed into the world of autism at age 4. Buckley, also a breast cancer survivor, has written “Healing Our Autistic Children” released in 2010. She is co-founder and president of the HEAL! (Healing Every Autistic Life) Foundation. She will speak about autism in general, highlighting other topics such as puberty and girls with autism. Attendance is free, but pre-registration is required and seating is limited. Register online at www. tacanow.org/alabama. ❖

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Members of the Junior League of Birmingham (JLB) are planning a new community service award program, The Community Circle Awards. Four Community Circle Awards will be given to nominees who have demonstrated exceptional service to the community through their leadership, service or fundraising efforts within the JLB’s four Impact Areas: Health, Education, Safety & Crisis Intervention and Financial Stability. The awards will be presented at a gala April 1 at the Cahaba Grand Conference Center. The Community Circle Awards committee received nominations in each of the JLB’s four Impact Areas. Nominees included individuals, organizations, and projects that have a current or past relationship with the JLB either as a community agency, advocate, service provider, grant recipient or donor. Finalists have been selected by an outside jury consisting of community leaders: Ann Florie, executive director of Leadership Birmingham, past JLB president and board member of the Birmingham Water Works; Dr. Neal Berte, former president of Birmingham Southern College; Dr. Michael Fleenor of the Jefferson County Department of Public Health; Dr. Betsy Holloway of Samford University’s Brock School of Business; Jera Stribling; Koko Mackin of Blue Cross Blue Shield; Vincent J. Graffeo of Haskell Slaughter; Odessa Woolfolk of the Birmingham Civil Rights Institute; and Jim Gorrie of Brasfield & Gorrie. The finalists are: Children’s Harbor Family Center at Children’s Hospital, Cornerstone Schools of Alabama, Glenwood Autism and Behavioral Health Center, Impact Alabama, Save First Initiative, Kid One Transport, Margaret Porter, McWane Science Center, Success by 6 by the United Way, Voices Against Violence: The Women’s Fund and YWCA The Community Circle Award winners and the awards will be presented at The Gala, a new JLB event on April 1. Proceeds raised from The Gala will be paired with volunteer service hours to directly address issues that affect women

and children including education, health, literacy, hunger, domestic violence, homelessness and drug abuse. The evening will be hosted by Alan Hunter and highlighted by an address from speaker Nancy Lublin, CEO of DoSomething.org, founder of the national non-profit Dress for Success, and author of the book, “ZILCH, The Power of Zero in Business.” Ticket information for The Gala can be found on the Junior League’s website: www.jlbonline. com.

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8 • THURSDAY, MARCH 10, 2011

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Vestavia Hills Citizens of the Year

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Honored at the Vestavia Hills Citizens of the Year banquet were, from left: David R. Belcher Sr., U.S. Rep. Spencer Bachus and, from the Vestavia Hills City Schools Foundation, Stephen Schaaf, Ashley Thompson and Scott Ferguson. Photo special to the Journal

Banquet Honors City’s Volunteers

he 22nd annual Vestavia Hills Citizens of the Year celebration, presented by Leadership Vestavia Hills, was Feb. 24 at the Vestavia Country Club. The program recognizes the volunteer efforts of Vestavia �� citizens. Leadership Vestavia Hills honored the Vestavia Hills City Schools Foundation as the Citizens for the Year for its �� funding of the city’s schools. �� The foundation provides the � �� schools with extra resources to �� educate students. With a successful capital campaign, the ��

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foundation continues to focus on building an endowment to fund projects. The foundation’s PitchIn Campaign involves children and local businesses in fundraising efforts. The Distinguished Citizen recipient was U.S. Rep. Spencer Bachus, who represents the Sixth Congressional District of Alabama in Washington, D.C. and was elected to his 10th term in November 2010. The award recognized his representation of Vestavia Hills and the surrounding area from legislation he championed in the Alabama State Legislature to

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working as a leader in Congress. David R. Belcher Sr. was the Lifetime Achievement recipient. Belcher has been involved in many volunteer efforts, including serving as a member of the Vestavia Hills school board and city council. Co-chairmen for this year’s Citizens of the Year program were Robin Morgan and Ann Hamiter. John Henley is president of Leadership Vestavia Hills. Emcee was Dennis Anderson, a minister, teacher and licensed professional counselor from Birmingham. He has served on the staff of Vestavia Hills Baptist Church as minister of education and administration since 1985. The invocation was given by Dr. Bryan Gunn of Shades Mountain Baptist Church, Leadership Vestavia Hills members welcomed guests, along with Vestavia Mayor Butch Zaragoza. Introducing the honorees were John Croyle, Sen. Jabo Waggoner and Dr. Karen Delano. Volunteers helping with the event were John Henley, Dennis Anderson, Tony Truitt, Mary Ann Appling, Robin Morgan, Ann Hamiter, Adam Blair, Rick Rice, Molly Wickstrum, Carol Buchanan, Penny Lewallyn, Celia Anthony, Ashley Thompson and Hugh Dye. Leadership Vestavia Hills is an independent, non-profit, non-partisan organization that enhances the quality of leadership in Vestavia Hills through networking and education. Part of the proceeds from the banquet will fund two college scholarships for seniors in the Youth Leadership Vestavia Hills program at Vestavia Hills High School. ❖

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Byers Receives National Honor

The National Society of High School Scholars (NSHSS) recently announced that Briarwood Christian School student Bradley H. Byers from Shoal Creek has been selected for membership. The Society recognizes top scholars and invites only those students who have Bradley H. Byers achieved academic excellence. The announcement was made by NSHSS Founder and Chairman Claes Nobel, a senior member of the family that established the Nobel Prizes. Membership in NSHSS entitles qualified students to enjoy a wide variety of benefits, including scholarship opportunities, academic competitions, free events, member-only resources, publications, participation in programs offered by educational partners, online forums, personalized recognition items and publicity honors.

Gilbert Achieves Eagle Scout Rank

Brent Alan Gilbert of Hoover was awarded the rank of Eagle Scout in an Eagle Court of Honor Sept. 12 at the Episcopal Church of the Ascension in Vestavia. Gilbert began scouting as a Tiger Cub in Pack 254. He received his Arrow of Brent Alan Gilbert

Light and joined Boy Scout Troop 96 in Feb. 2005. As a member of Troop 96, Gilbert earned 26 merit badges, received the Polar Bear Patch and earned four 50 miler awards, including canoeing/bicycling trips and hiking at Philmont Scout Ranch in New Mexico in June 2010. For his Eagle Scout project, Gilbert and Troop 96 constructed 10 computer work stations for NorthStar Youth Ministries. Gilbert, a junior at Briarwood Christian School, is the son of Craig and Brenda Gilbert and a member of Briarwood Presbyterian Church.

Literacy Council Welcomes Board Members, Officers

The Literacy Council recently welcomed three new board members and a slate of new officers. Frank Brocato, Dave Holt and Alison Decker Scott are new board members, while chairman John English of Vulcan Materials Company, vice chairman Virginia Patterson of Bradley Arant Boult Cummings, secretary Lee Zell of Balch & Bingham LLP and treasurer Jamie Sullivan of Cooper Green Mercy Hospital will lead the board. Brocato is chief fire marshal for the Hoover Fire Department. He serves on a number of safety, security and EMS committees for organizations throughout Jefferson County. A graduate of Birmingham-Southern College, Brocato is a member of Leadership Birmingham’s 2006 class and a former United Way chairman for the city of Hoover. Holt received the Literacy Council’s Distinguished Partner award in 2010 for his work developing the Bessemer Ready to Read program. He is a graduate of the U.S. Air Force Academy, a Vietnam veteran and recipient of the Purple Heart and Distinguished Flying

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PEOPLE Cross. After retiring from the Air Force, Holt taught high school in Atlanta for 15 years. Scott returns to Birmingham from New Orleans, where she was assistant director of major gifts for Tulane University Medical School and served on the board of the Junior League of New Orleans and STAIR (Start the Adventure in Reading). She was an active volunteer in New Orleans with the Preservation Resource Center, Children’s Museum and Children’s Hospital. Scott is an Auburn University graduate.

Business Leaders Join Children’s Harbor Board

Children’s Harbor of Alabama has appointed Ward Cheatham and Douglas Eckert to its board of directors. Cheatham, a commercial real estate executive for Regions Bank, is involved in a number of charitable organizations in the Birmingham area. Eckert is executive vice president of Hoar Construction,

THURSDAY, MARCH 10, 2011 • 9

where he leads the company’s risk management, legal, human resources and marketing functions. Children’s Harbor serves seriously ill children and their families through more than 20 illness-related camps at its Lake Martin campus. It provides counseling, support and recreational opportunities for families at the Children’s Harbor Family Center adjacent to Children’s Hospital. ❖

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Facing the ‘Death Race’

Combat Fitness Owner Ready For Tough New Challenge BY LAURA MCALISTER JOURNAL EDITOR

or some people, running a 10K would be on life’s to-do list, but for Sean Dickson, that’s a Tuesday – and it’s just a warm-up to his daily workout. Sean is owner of Combat Fitness Training Facility in Hoover. The former Army Special Forces medic challenges clients daily with what he calls “functional fitness with a tactical twist.” Describing Learn More: a typical workout To learn more about would be Sean Dickson and almost imposCombat Fitness Training sible, because Sean’s routine Facility visit www.combatfitnesstf.com changes daily. But one thing is for sure For more information – it’s always abut the upcoming Death challenging, Race visit both physiwww.youmaydie.com cally and mentally. “What we do here is fitness that mimics life,” said the John Carroll Catholic High School graduate. “It’s designed from what I did in the military.” Sean served in Afghanistan with the Army’s 82nd Airborne Division. He joined the military for the challenge; after returning from his service in Afghanistan in 2008, he wanted another challenge, so he opened Combat Fitness about a year later. Don’t expect treadmills or spin classes at this gym. Here, it’s just the basics – some mats, lots of weights, gymnastics rings and rowing machines. “And those buckets you see over there,” Sean joked, pointing to a corner in the building, “they’re not for mopping.” Sean, 33, trains right along with his clients, so if the day’s workout calls for a 5K run up the hill leading to the gym on Valleydale Terrace, followed by 210 reps with a weighted ball and maybe even a few algebra problems in between, Sean takes part in all the drills. The only advantage he has is that he plans all the workouts. “I’m the only one who knows what we’re going to do,” he said. “I’m the wizard behind the curtain.” The tables will be turned on him this summer, though, when Sean takes

Sean Dickson, owner of Combat Fitness Training Facility in Hoover is getting ready for what is deemed one of the toughest adventure races in the world – the Death Race. On the board behind him is a schedule for the day’s workout at his gym. on a new challenge, one with a simple yet unnerving warning: “You may die.” In June, Sean will head to Vermont to compete in the Death Race, a twoto-three day adventure race that tests competitors with grueling tasks for the mind and body. Sean doesn’t know how long the race will last or even when it will officially start. He just has to be in Pittsfield, Vt., by noon on June 25. The race has a 10 percent finish rate, Sean said, and to finish is to win it. “That’s the deal. It can last forever and be like a Dante’s Inferno, but you can always walk away,” he said. “You can quit.” But quitting just isn’t something in this sergeant’s nature. “Special forces don’t quit,” he said. It’s that training he received in the special forces that makes Sean think he will be in the 10 percent who finish the

Journal photo by Laura McAlister

Death Race. Sean joined the Army in 2000. At the time, he didn’t expect to see combat. But then came the terrorist attacks of Sept. 11, 2001. He was in training during the attacks, serving with a recon scout platoon with the 82nd Airborne Division. He of course wanted another challenge, so he tried the special forces. He’s a graduate of the Army’s Airborne School and Ranger School and eventually became a special forces medic. In 2007, he was sent to serve in Afghanistan. It was there that Sean realized all the training he had still didn’t prepare him for the real-life situations of war. “Three days within the invasion, I was exhausted,” he said. “When you go out on patrol, whether it’s in the military or as a police officer, you

JOU RNAL

never know if it’s going to be normal.” After completing his tour of duty, Sean returned to Birmingham, and about a year later he opened his gym – which trains police officers, soldiers or just about anyone to prepare for the unexpected. He trains almost every day with some mandatory rest, and the training is always different, targeting different muscles. Combat Fitness Training Facility has been open almost exactly a year, and of course, Sean is ready for the next challenge. “I started with a few options,” he said. “It was either to run the entire Appalachian Trail or the Death Race.” Assuming that the Death Race will last only about two to three days (no one except the planners knows for sure), the race won out. During the months leading up to the event, Sean said he will be training vigorously and competing in local races. “I’ve got six before the Death Race,” he said. “I’m training as much as I can. They always say you can never be too prepared.” That’s especially true for a race like this one. Though all the Death Races are different, Sean said the examples he’s heard are pretty brutal. “Once they sent them 10 miles up a mountain, and when they got to the top, they had to name the first 10 presidents,” he said. “Then they had to run down again and at the bottom name the first 10 presidents in reverse order. It’s mental agility training.” Those who couldn’t recite the presidents’ names correctly were sent back up the mountain to try and try again. It’s that mental aspect that really appealed to Sean. “What we preach here (at Combat Fitness Training Facility) is your strongest asset is your mind,” he said. “At all times you have to stay sharp. That’s why sometimes during the hardest weight training, I’ll pull out an algebra problem for them.” So far, about 200 people nationwide have signed up for the June Death Race. While Sean knows the odds are slim, he expects to be among the 10 percent who finish. He won’t get any cash prize or even a trophy, but that’s not what the Death Race is about. “It’s about finishing,” he said. “There are no times listed or anything like that. Just the names of those who finished.” Those names, as well as information on the Death Race, are posted on the event’s website, appropriately named www.youmaydie.com. ❖

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Good to be King

BY LAURA MCALISTER JOURNAL EDITOR

“That’s really one of the greatest things about the Krewe Ball. It’s a great family night. It’s a generational thing.” – Schuyler Allen Baker Jr., 2011 Krewe King

chuyler Allen Baker Jr. admits it – he could get used to being king. It’s been only a couple of weeks since the Beaux Arts Krewe announced that the Mountain Brook resident would reign over the 44th annual Krewe Ball, held March 4. But during the days leading up to the event, Baker was actually starting to like the sound of being called “king,” he said. “I think I’m starting to get used to it,” he said with a laugh. “Folks around here have been calling me ‘your majesty’ and bowing. I’ve even told a few I’d make them a duke and carve out a little part of Birmingham for them.” Being king should come easy for someone like Allen. Royalty does run in his family, at least when it comes to the Krewe. Allen, a lawyer with Balch & Bingham, LLC, isn’t the first in his family to reign over the Beaux Arts Krewe Ball. His daughter Sally was queen of the Krewe in 2005 with king Mike Goodrich. In fact, Allen’s family has long been a part of the ball, held every year at Boutwell Auditorium. The Beaux Arts Krewe Ball is a Mardi Gras-style debutante ball complete with a queen and a king as well as princesses, pages, ladies-in-waiting, dukes and more. Proceeds from the ball benefit the Birmingham Museum of Art. (See page 12 for complete coverage.) Allen said he was “tickled to death” to reign over this year’s ball. The honor came as a complete surprise, he said.

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Allen Baker took to Royal Role as Beaux Arts Krewe Ball monarch

“They tricked me,” he said of members of the Krewe. “They called me to a meeting on the pretense of talking about something connected to the auditorium committee. “Being a lawyer, I’m in charge of the lease. They kept asking questions, and I was wondering why they were asking me the same things they did two weeks ago.” Apparently, Krewe members were just making sure he could handle “both duties,” Allen said. “I didn’t know what they were talking about. I had my taste of being in the spotlight in 2005 when Sally was the queen, but I never thought in a million years they would ask me to serve as king.” For Allen, the most exciting part of the night was getting to have all of his family together. He and his wife Patty have four children; only son Brad and wife Sally live in Birmingham. Will and wife Susannah are in Washington, D.C., and Mike and wife Laura are in Chapel Hill, N.C. Their daughter Sally is in Washington, D.C., as well. The Bakers also have four grandchildren – Maggie, Allen, Kathryn and Wilson. Allen joined the Krewe in 1991, and all his children have participated in the balls in some capacity. “That’s really one of the greatest things about the Krewe Ball,” he said. “It’s a great family night. It’s a generational thing.” Family time is one of Allen’s greatest enjoyments. While his day job – he’s been a civil litigation lawyer at Balch & Bingham for 38 years and serves as general council there – takes up much of his time, Allen does enjoy taking

the family to their home on Lake Martin. It’s where his children spent much of their summers. Now, it’s how Allen lures them back to the state. Well, that and Alabama football. Speaking of sports, Allen is an avid fan of most all of them. He loves playing golf with his friends, and for those who don’t know him as king, many think of him as coach. “I spent a whole lot of time in the ’80s and ’90s coaching my kids’ teams,” he said. “So many of the young professionals in Birmingham are kids I coached. That’s one of my favorite legacies.” Coaching isn’t the only way Allen has given back to the community. He works with several charities, including the United Way and the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society of Alabama. Allen knows firsthand the importance of the latter’s work. “I had lymphoma back in 2003 and spent a lot of time getting cured for that,” he said. “I went to Nebraska to receive a bone marrow treatment. I was gone a long time and then went through other treatments here. “I learned quickly how important that organization is and what a difference donations to cancer research make.” Allen also is a supporter of the Birmingham Museum of Art through the Krewe. Since joining the Krewe, he has served as captain, president and board member. Now he can add king to that list. But he knows his reign will be short-lived. “Come Sunday after the ball, it’ll be back to carrying out the garbage and feeding the dogs,” he said. “That’s what I do.” ❖

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Revelry Reigns at 43rd Beaux Arts Krewe Ball

he 43rd annual Beaux Arts Krewe Ball benefiting the Birmingham Museum of Art was March 4 at Boutwell Auditorium. The theme of this year’s ball was “Aladdin’s Magic Night.” Reigning over this year’s ball were king Schuyler Allen Bradley Baker Jr. and queen Bess Bouchelle Ager. “Queen Bess” graduated from Mountain Brook High School in 2008. She is a junior at the University of Mississippi where she is majoring in elementary education with plans to become a counselor at an elementary school. She is a member of Chi Omega Sorority. She is the daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Francis more photos at Minor Shepard Ager and the granddaughter of Mr. and Mrs. Phil Hudson Neal and the late Dr. and Mrs. Law Lamar Ager. She has a sister, Sarah Brannon Ager, and brother, Francis Minor Shepard Ager Jr. Ladies-in-waiting and their escorts were Julia Jemison Matthews and Tom Tartt Brown III and Dorothy Ryals Thompson and William Andrew Goodner. Princesses presented at the ball, with their escorts, were: Julia Dorothy Andrews and Elliot Tuttle Williams Mills; Elizabeth Tucker Bolvig and Aaron Colt Brooker; Caroline Christian Bromberg and William Evan Wellden; Elizabeth Taliaferro Bromberg and Thomas Sumners Adams Jr.; Caroline Jane Christopher and Thomas Pritchard Griffin; Elizabeth Cunningham Debardeleben and Tyler Hayden Love; Margaret Alice Drew and Robert Henderson Walston; Julia Anna Mary Ezell and John Bailie Austin Jr.; Anne Eliza Fite and Emory Jackson III; Dorothy Monnish Grenier and William Campbill Hannon III; Mary Bentley Ranier Hammet and John Gray Palmer III; Rebecca Lucille Kissel and Jan Aleksander Egeman; Hillary Benners Marbury and Evan Fitgerald Bradford; Elizabeth Pride Nix and William Robert Kennedy Jr.; Blair Henderson Parks and Charles Harrison Davis; Caroline Elizabeth Parks and Peyton Davis Falkenburg; Susan Gabriella Puffer and Colin Andrew Smith; Elizabeth Bradshaw Ratcliffe and Thomas Martin Tyson II; Stephanie Starr Robinson and Wiliam Dean Nix Jr.;

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Princess Kennan Wood curtseys to the crowd with Tom Bradford at the 43rd annual Beaux Arts Krewe Ball at Boutwell Auditorium March 4. Photo courtesy Hank Spencer

Above left: Emma Taylor and Dorothy Thompson were among those participating in this year’s Beaux Arts Krewe Ball. Above: Livy Dunn, left, and Emily Dunn were among those serving as train bearers. Left, serving as dukes at the ball were from left: Paul Liles, Ross Forman, John DeBuys, Jack Martin and Alan Dreher

Journal photos by Emil Wald

Marguerite Ashford Rowe and Hunter Glenn Weber; Anna Michelle Scott and James David Carroll; Kathleen Anne Shearer and Peyton Pryor Davis; Virginia Manning Weatherly and Thomas Dillon Hobbs; and Martha Kennan Wood and Ryan Wynn Salisbury. Dukes of the royal court were William Anthony Davis III, John Forrester DeBuys Jr., Alan Julian Dreher, James Ross Forman III, Richard John Hydinger, Paul Andrews Liles, John Higgins Martin and Jack Leard McKewen Jr. The queen’s guards were Richard Hagood Drennen, Carey Ferguson Hollingsworth III, Henry Sprott Long Jr., Charles Phillip McWane, David McCoy Millhouse, Phillip Gillis Stutts, William Burr Weatherly and Turner Butler Williams. Trainbearers for “King Allen” were Schuyler Allen Bradley Baker IV, Adrienne Elizabeth Belser, Catherine Louise Belser, Anne Hunter Dunn, Emily McLean Dunn, Olivia Wilson Dunn, Jack Campbell Smith and Mary Frances Springfield. The queen’s trainbearers were Isabelle Virginia DeBuys, John Wilson Miller, Thomas Richard Miller II, Hanna Pate Rowland, Hayden King Rowland, Rhoades Patton Vogtle and Virginia Florence Vogtle. Pages included: Eugenie Joyce Allen, Edith King Amason, Thomas Gilbert Amason IV, Carolanne Hodge Berte, Sara Francis Berte, Isabel Browning Boyd, Katherine Elizabeth Brennan, Emilie Anne Brown, Gilder Scout Carruthers; Anne Carlton Clegg, Elizabeth Patterson Cooper, Sally Grace Cooper, Elizabeth Anne Wilkinson Crommelin, Annabel Mountain Davis, Mary Mozelle Davis, Mary Patton Day, Magaret Jean Dodson, Catherine Edith Driscoll, Eleanor Elizabeth Edwards, Caroline Henderson Goings, Catherine Morris Greene; Grace Shepard Hull, Sarah Randall Hydinger, Elizabeth Barnes Manley, Eleanor Claire Martin, Robert Wiliamson Martin, Alice Alden Monk, Mary Kathryn Rainer, Mary Frances Robertson, Henry Moreau Skinner, Katherine Hollon Skinner, Marguerite Alice Sprain, Lydia Catherine Stylslinger, Emma Bolling Hall Taylor, Mary McLaurine Trammell, Lauren Campbell Walston and Mary Charbonnet Ward. ❖

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Among those attending the Mountain Brook Chamber of Commerce Annual Luncheon themed “Brighter Days Ahead” where above, from left: Amy Jackson, Suzan Doidge, Jimmy Rane, Hannah Davidson and Steve Hydinger. Rane, CEO of Great Southern Wood Preserving and the “Yella Fella” was the keynote speaker at the luncheon. Meeting with Rane at the luncheon was Eleanor Cheatham, top, left, and John Rucker, bottom, right. Journal photos by Bones Long

Mountain Brook Chamber of Commerce held its ...

2011 annual luncheon presented by Stern Agee Feb. 17 at the Country Club of Birmingham. The event’s theme was “Brighter Days Ahead.” Keynote speaker was Jimmy Rane, CEO of Great Southern Wood Preserving and well known for the company’s popular “Yella Fella” more photos at commercials. He also is the founder of the Jimmy Rane Foundation, which helps provide college scholarships to deserving students and education projects and grants to communities. Chamber awards were made during the luncheon, including the William Tynes Award, presented by the Emmet O’Neal Library, to Alice Williams; the Robert Jemison Visionary Award, presented by the chamber past president of the board John Rucker and executive president Suzan Doidge, to Bob and Rebecca Moody; and the Mountain Brook City Employee of the Year, presented by city manager Sam Gaston, to Lt. Greg Hagood. Mike Royer of Alabama’s 13 was master of ceremonies. The invocation was given by the Rev. Rich Webster of St. Luke’s Episcopal Church. Steven Hydinger is president of the Mountain Brook Chamber board.

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The Cha Cha, Fandango and Go-Go Dance Clubs ... hosted an evening of “Dinner and Dancing with the Stars”

Feb. 5 at Old Car Heaven on Birmingham’s Southside. Welcoming guests were dance club officers Marie Cole, Gina Boyd, Elizabeth Cornay, Mary Owen, Susan Silverstein, Mindy Boggs, Carla Roberson, Nancy Bromberg, Carrie Coons and Susan Williams. Some 300 guests mingled among the classic cars displayed in the warehouse space. Entertainment was provided by TOTAL A$$ET$. Chef Gray Byrum of Echelon Catering By Design provided appetizers, entrees and desserts. Cha Cha party planners Elizabeth Cornay and Cindy Yielding asked Dr. Billy

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Cornay to transform the space into a festive venue. Other dance club officers who helped plan the event were Trisha Dodson and Lisa Gaines. Photography was by Michael L. Nelson. Cha Cha members there included Linda and Ross Askins, Pam and Robert Baugh, Ruth and Sandy Bean, Diane and Murray Beck, Susan and Billy Blair, Gina and Rusty Boyd, Marie and Mike Cole, Elizabeth and Billy Cornay, Sara and Bobby Crook, Karen and Doug Eddleman, Elizabeth and Mark Ezell, Marlea and John Foster, Maura and Will Goodwyn, Alison and Jett Hawk, Bea and Tim Healey, Glynis and Sonny Jones, Tricia and Will Kirk, Joy and Price Kloess, Barbara and Barney Lanier, Trudy and Alex Lockett, Eve and Gary London, Carroll and David Magro, Leslie and Frank Mapes, Amanda and Tom McGough, Susan and Tommy Merrill, Sally and Lee Morris, Pat and Rick Owen, Mary Owen, Kathy

At a joint dance club party were, from left: Mary Owen, Marie Cole, Elizabeth Cornay and Gina Boyd. Photo special to the Journal and Tim Parsons, Cathy and Graham Tayloe, Janet and Jeff Porterfield, Vickie and Dave Rader, Connie and Ramsey Reich, Kate Stockham, Trisha and Mike Stovall, Sid and Burr Weatherly, Libba and Turner Williams, Kathy and George O’Rear and Ann and Jim Carter. Fandangos at the party were

At a reception to prepare for the upcoming Hollywood Home Tour are, from left: Stephanie Kennedy, co-chairman; Emily Beaumont, Holly Oak Garden Club president; and Denise Hancock, co-chairman.

Photo special to the Journal

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Mimi and Stuart Arrington, Mindy and Larry Boggs, Laura and David Bryan, Courtney and Phil Brown, Dotty and Joe Carley, Jeanne and Mike Clark, Anne Luckie Cobb, Bimi and Blair Cox, Paula Cox, Beth and Rufus Elliott, Judy and Bruce Matthews, Vicki and Charles McGehee, Hallie and Bruce Rawls, Carla and Loyd Roberson, Susan and David Silverstein, Lochrane and Mel Smith, Glenda and Jim Sparacio, Tricia and Hilton Tomlinson, Elise Warren, Yorke and Martin Williams, Louise and Jimmie Wright, Mary and Mike Rooney, Tricia and Hilton Tomlinson, Virginia and Tommy Tucker, Candace Wason, Emily Rose and Buddy Morris, and Suzanne and Mike Graham, Kathryn Fisher and Charlotte Powell. Go-Gos attending were Nancy and Ricky Bromberg, Hollis Gieger, Susan and Glenn Waldrop, Frances and Joel Mulkin, Julie and Doug Carmichael, Leigh and Kevin Collins, Leah and Ted Taylor, Anne and Payton Sherrod, Janet Lucas, Cami Tracey, Libba and Turner Williams, Happy and Bill Anthony, Cathy and Mell Duggan, Melinda and Cotton Shallcross, Leigh Laser and Kevin Collins and Celeste Grenier.

A reception for homeowners of ...

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featured houses on the Historic Hollywood Home Tour and for tour hostesses was recently held at the Aloft Hotel in SoHo Square. Tour co-chairmen Stephanie Kennedy and Denise Hancock hosted the party. Homeowners included Mort and Rebekah Taylor, Dan and Kristi Logan, Jack and Charm Hain and Brandon and Katy Bishop. Hostesses there were Brooke Bell, Michelle Wright and Katie Tipton. Emily Beaumont, Holly Oak

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Garden Club president, also attended. The Historic Hollywood Home Tour will be May 1 from 1 to 4 p.m. Tickets are $15 in advance and $17 the day of the event. For more information contact Stephanie Kennedy at 9431953, or visit the tour blog at www.historichollywoodhometour2011.blogspot.com/.

Alzheimer’s of Central Alabama held a ...

kickoff luncheon for its 15th annual Garden Art Party at the Mountain Brook home of David and Terri Platt Feb. 3. The Garden Art Party will be May 21 at B&A Warehouse. Miller Piggott, executive director of Alzheimer’s of Central Alabama, talked to guests about the history of the organization. Board president Christy Baynes reviewed the event’s goals. Board vice president Jennifer Smith, who is chairing the event, discussed the live and silent auctions. Artwork by Alzheimer’s patients from assisted living facilities and adult day care centers will be featured at the party. Nicole Crawford and Jana Linton will head the committee coordinating the Alzheimer’s art. To celebrate the 20th anniversary of ACA, this year’s party theme will be “Carnival.” Local

Rebecca Hamiter, left, and Kelly Kitchens were among guests at a kickoff party for Alzheimer’s of Central Alabama’s upcoming Garden Art Party. Photo special to the Journal artists have been asked to transform wooden boxes into carnival-themed works of art which will be sold as part of the auction. Other auction items include trips, entertainment and dining packages, artwork, gardening items and jewelry. At the kickoff party, gerbera daisies and roses adorned the tables. Each guest was given a polka-dot bag filled with popcorn. At the luncheon were board members Susan Bremer, Julie Bryant, Tom Morton, Mark

Russell, Layne McDougal, Nicole Crawford, Jeannie Duke, Valerie Childers and Mel York. Also there were supporters Susan Morris, Sandy Zuiderhoek, Mary Anne Hornbuckle, Shay Mayo, Judith Jones, Sharon Stratton, Rebecca Hamiter, Martin Briggs and Lynn Dunne. Tickets for the Garden Art Party are $90. For more information or to buy tickets, call ACA at 871-7970 or visit www.alzca.org. ❖

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pal Irene O’Neill and Kevin Sutton, a member of the Better Basics board of directors and fire chief of Fairfield. Jae’lah Samuels, a student who won an essay contest while participating in one of Better Basics’ literacy programs, presented a speech and song. The Love for Literacy Luncheon supports Better Basics’ full more photos at range of literacy programs in area public schools. Last year, Better Basics served almost 19,000 students and gave away almost 49,000 books to children who might not otherwise have books in their homes. The event was sponsored by McGriff, Seibels and Williams, Merrill Lynch Wealth Management, El Paso Southern Natural Gas, Buffalo Rock, the Junior League of Birmingham, Lemak Sports Medicine and Orthopedics and Honours Golf. For more information, visit www.betterbasics.org or call 944-2928.

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Jeannine Mikos, who spoke about “Four Long Years,” at the group’s first meeting of 2011. Born in Evreux in Normandy, France, Mikops lived there during the German occupation. Her story describes life during that time. She and husband Ed now live in Hoover. Another special guest at the meeting was author Ian Thompson. He presented a copy of his book, “From Green Valley to Hoover Country Club – 50 Years of Memories,” to the society’s library in appreciation for the research he was able to do in the society’s historical library records. The group’s newly-formed Fire Tower Committee was recognized. Members Charles Shelby, Barbara Clark, Delores Wilkinson, Barbara Lyons, Jim Lyons and Tommy Tucker will investigate refurbishing the top of the old Bluff Park Fire tower on Shades Crest Rd. The group’s annual spring trip will be to historic Gee’s Bend and Camden April 19. The next meeting will be on March 22 at 1:30 p.m. at the Hoover Community Education Building on Park Ave. Dr. Ed Bridges, director of the Alabama Department of Archives and History, will present a “Slide Tour Through Alabama History.” The public is invited to attend. ❖

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THURSDAY, MARCH 10, 2011 • 17

auctions and food from Veranda, the Fish Market, Taziki’s, Max’s Deli, Creative Cuisine, Catering by LaNetta and other restaurants and companies. A Kids Zone included games and food from Chick-Fil-A and the Great American Cookie Co. Music was provided by Scott Hudson. Heart Gallery Alabama promotes adoption of children currently in Alabama’s foster care system by recruiting professional photographers to take the children’s portraits. More than 600 foster children are currently eligible for adoption in Alabama.

The Birmingham chapter of the National Society of ...

Among those at the third annual Fotos, Frames & Fun were, above, from left: Jimmy and Sheri Krell and Patti and Terry Hirsberg; and right, Katie Hardekopf, left, and Kelsie Dewhurst.

Arts and Letters opened the new year Jan. 19 at the Country Club of Birmingham with a program of contemporary dance. NSAL is a national organization founded to assist and encourage young artists through competitions, scholarships and career

Photos special to the Journal

Some 300 people attended the third annual ...

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opportunities, President Margie Denton led the meeting. Mildred AllenTaub, vice president and program chairman, and National Dance Competition chairman Edie Barnes introduced Rhea Speights, Sanspointe Dance Company choreographer. Speights’ program, “The Art of Choreography Part II,” featured dancers Susie Long �� and Alisa McCool in the pas de deux “Signs Following.” �� Sanspointe artistic director �� Shellie Chambers danced �� the interactive improvisation �� “I Made Something for You” �� accompanied by musician Justin Wallace on vibraphone, percussion and cymbals. Dannette Ledbetter provided centerpieces of begonia sprigs and mixed foliage in crimson vases, and Mildred Allen-Taub and Benny Middaugh led guests in sing�� ing “Happy Birthday” to Cindy Free, NSAL Chapter Dance �� Competition chairman. � �� Carolyn Satterfield hosted �� the luncheon meeting, and chaplain Ruth Jensen gave the �� invocation. �� Rhea Speights went on to win the NSAL regional dance �� choreography competition at the BJCC Concert Hall Jan. 29. �� Twelve young dancers, including Speights, performed solos �� of original choreography for a �� chance to compete in NSAL’s �� national dance choreography �� competition in Birmingham May 17-22. Speights won first place and a prize of $700 for her interpretation of Blind Willie Nelson’s “Dark Was the Night, Cold Was the Ground” in her dance entitled “This Place.” Ashley McQueen of Birmingham won second place and $350 for her interpretation of Handel’s “He That Dwelleth in Heaven, Thou Shall Break It’s all wrapped up right here in Columbus, Them.” Mississippi.World-renowned playwright Michelle Imhof of Tennessee Williams got his ﬁrst taste of true Arova Contemporary Ballet, Southern hospitality here, where he was born. Birmingham, won third place That’s why we’re celebrating 100 Years of and $200 for her interpretaTennessee Williams: tion of Beethoven’s “Moonlight

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Birthday Celebration March 24 – 27

The judges and winners of the NSAL dance competition were above, from left: judge Jessica Lang, second place dance winner Ashley McQueen, judge Germaul Barnes, third place dance winner Michelle Imhof, judge Bill Evans and first place winning dancer Rhea Speights. At the NSAL’s January meeting were below, from left: dance chairman Cindy Free, Birmingham Ballet executive and artistic director; Mildred Allen-Taub, vice president and program chairman; and Bennie Middaugh, musical theater chairman. Photo special to the Journal

Sonata” in her original work “Tied Down.” Judges were choreographers Bill Evans, Germaul Barnes and Jessica Lang. Cindy Free, NSAL chapter dance chairman and Birmingham Ballet executive and artistic director, emceed the event. NSAL national dance chairmen Edie Barnes and Lynn Russell-Davis introduced the competition winners and presented them with flowers provided by NSAL National Conference chairman Gail Ledbetter. The program, presented in

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conjunction with the Alabama Dance Festival, opened with a performance of “Distinct Destiny With An Open Fist” by Southern Danceworks of Birmingham and ended with performances of “Nuit Blanche” by Arova Contemporary Ballet and “Roost” by Sanspointe Dance Company. Rosemary Johnson, Alabama Dance Council executive director and NSAL member, also included the Merce Cunningham Dance Company Legacy Tour as part of the festival’s continuing commitment to showcase and entertain Birmingham area dancers and audiences. At the Jan. 19 meeting were Helen Hudgens, Dr. Loretta Brown, Ruth Jensen, Mel Robinson, Janis Zeanah and guest Sue Watkins, Jane Hinds, Mildred Allen-Taub, Edie Barnes, Robert Bauman, Leigh Sloss Corra, Zelda Covey, Margie Denton, Cindy Free, Tallulah Hargrove, Melva Jones, Gail Ledbetter, Jeannine McElroy, Benjamin Middaugh, Nancy Morrow, Mary Francis Reed, Catherine Rogers, Ann Rose, Lynn Russell-Davis, Emalyn Spencer, Sara Vaughn, Martha Willetts and guest artists Shellie Chambers, Rhea Speights, Susie Young, Alisa McCool and Justin Wallace.❖

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The Silhouettes Dance Club held its annual ...

black tie dinner dance Jan. 29 at the Country Club of Birmingham. Colorful invitations depicted the theme of a champagne cruise. Members “set sail” to Monte Carlo, Seville, Barcelona and other exotic ports. After cocktails at “Rick’s Place” in Casablanca, members were seated at the captain’s tables for a gourmet dinner. Dance chairmen Connie Hinkle and Rose Ann Kendrick created centerpieces by combining balloons, champagne bottles and flutes with gold and silver stars. Each member received a small bottle of champagne as a party favor. Dancing on the “Promenade Deck” to classic tunes were president Jackie MacClary and husband Bruce. Others there were Martha and Mick Miklic, Kathleen and George Petznick, Helen Mills and Walter Gay Pittman, Jerry and Pat Mills, Rose Ann and Rod Kendrick, Connie Hinkle and Bob Hilley, Rhunette and Jim Moreland, Sue and Bob Kreider, Pat and Bill Miller, Lovie Dixon, Nita and Coy Collingsworth, Chris and Wayne Killion and Betsy and Roy Caldwell. More at the party were Nancy and Lamar Latimer, Kay and Tom Merrill, Margaret and Bill Whitaker, Joan and Wally Hinkle, Martha and Paul Chism, Barbara and Don Cook, Eleanor Cheatham and Dick Bullock, Lynda and Dick McLaughlin, Peggy and Ray Sykes, Patsy and Jim Norton, Bev and John Goff, June and John Eagan, Martha and Bill Fuller, Laurie and Charlie Binion, Marcia and Ken Little, Margaret and Joe Langston, Ann and Fletcher Harvey, Nancy DeWine and Coleta and Don Newton. ❖

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JOU RNAL

Centennial Celebration

Birmingham Association of REALTORS Marks 100 Years in the Magic City

BY LAURA MCALISTER JOURNAL EDITOR

hen the Birmingham Association of REALTORS formed, the organization had around 25 members and the population of the Magic City totaled about “Realtors do more 40,000. If that sounds like it was a long time ago, it’s because, well, than sell real was – 100 years ago, to be estate. They’ve itexact. The Birmingham Association helped the genof REALTORS is celebrating its erations realize the centennial year this year. The American dream theme is “100 Years of Opening Doors,” because as Realtor by helping them Margi Ingram, chairman of the purchase the big- centennial celebration, likes to say, a Realtor’s job is much gest investment of more than selling a house. “What we really want to do their life” this year is enlighten the comand our own association – Margi Ingram, Realtor munity of the significance that Realtors played in the development of the life of the community and the families,” she said. “Realtors do more than sell real estate. They’ve helped the generations realize the American dream by helping them purchase the biggest investment of their life.” The association also set ethical standards and guide-

See Centennial, page 21

Finalizing the sale of a Mountain Brook home are from left, Realtors Rolanda Hollis, Stephanie Robinson and Dorothy Tayloe. Journal photo by Laura McAlister

Birmingham Association of REALTORS: A History

1911: The Birmingham Real Estate Exchange was formed and R.P. McDavid served as the president.

1940s: Membership was soaring with 63 member firms, and the Builders Institute, a forerunner to the Greater Birmingham Home Builders Association, was formed.

1958: The Multiple Listing Service (MLS) was created.

1970-80s: The ’70s brought in the greatest growth, but in the ’80s membership declined due to high interest and mortgage rates.

1960s: The association moved into the City Federal Building in downtown Birmingham.

PRESENT: The association celebrates its centennial and looks for the market to pick up after a dip in sales the past few years.

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Members of the Birmingham delegation traveled to Tulsa, Okla. in 1926 to attend the National Real Estate Convention. Below, R.P. McDavid was the first president of the Birmingham Association of REALTORS when it first formed in 1911.

Centennial continued from page 20 lines for buying and selling real estate that the area didn’t have before. By joining the National Association of REALTORS, members of the Birmingham association were also required to pass certain exams and education courses.

THE FIRST 100 YEARS

The Birmingham Association of REALTORS actually dates back more than 100 years. In 1890, a group of real estate men began meeting informally. They had no rules or guidelines to follow, and no special training was required. Then in 1911, the Birmingham Real Estate Exchange was formed and joined the National Association of REALTORS. R.P. McDavid was the organization’s first president. In 1920, the exchange adopted a new name, the Birmingham Real Estate Board. Things were going well for the association, and Birmingham was growing. In 1926, Robert Jemison Jr., a member of the local organization, became president of the national association making him the first from Alabama to serve as president of the National Association of Real Estate

See Centennial, page 22

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Around 1962, the Birmingham Association of Realtors moved its office to the City Federal Building. It moved to its current location on Independence Drive in 1993. Left, during the 1940s, the association saw an increase in membership and women began joining the association.

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Centennial continued from page 21 Boards. Like almost everyone, the association hit hard times during the Great Depression; membership dwindled to almost nothing. But it bounced back, and by 1941 had more than 60 member firms. Times only got better after World War II, which is when the association says its most dramatic changes occurred. Women were joining the association, and a builders institute, which

would later lead to the formation of the Greater Birmingham Home Builders Association, was formed. The creation of the Multiple Listing Service in 1958 was another major change for the organization. The service was formed by 16 brokers and required firms to pay $20 a month to use it. This early version of the MLS was a threering binder of mimeographed pages, according to Cynthia Cox Ragland, current president of the Birmingham association and a Realtor with Royal Realty and Associates. “And before the three-ring

binder it was literally a list,” she said. “That’s how it got the name ‘listing,’ because people would stand around on the street corners with an actual list of the properties for sale.” In the late 1960s, the organization got a new name, the Birmingham Board of REALTORS, and again experienced tremendous growth. Margi joined the organization at about this time. “We grew from 651 Realtors in 1961 to about 3,300 by 1979,” she said. “That was probably our biggest growth time.” The association again took a hit in the ’80s because of the economy, but the Birmingham area bounced back. Aside from technology, Margi said the biggest change in the industry has been the emergence of new neighborhoods in the Birmingham area. Developments like Liberty Park, Greystone and Ross Bridge have redefined living with more amenities, and upscale condominiums have sprung up in the Over the Mountain area. “There’s really been a lot of development of communities,” she said. “First there was Inverness, Riverchase, and now there is Ross Bridge and Highland Lakes. “There also used to be

See Centennial, page 23

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THURSDAY, MARCH 10, 2011 • 23

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• 18th Century Continental William and Mary Chinoiserie Secretary • Grouping of German Botanical Photogravures • 19th Century American High Country Chippendale Chest, Cherry and Birch • New Collection of Brahms Mount Textiles, Blankets from Hallowell, Maine • View Gallery on Facebook, Noordermeer Antiques

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Membership in the Birmingham Association of Realtors grew dramatically in the late 1970s when there were around 3,300 members. High interest and mortgage rates caused membership to drop in the 80s and 90s. �� changed a lot in Birmingham changing things. Everybody �� and the Over the Mountain area has a Facebook page,” she said. in the last 100 years. Now, the “Technology has just really �� continued from page 22 Birmingham metropolitan area allowed us to be more efficient �� population exceeds 1 million, and more effective.” nothing on (U.S.) 280. Now and membership in the associaWhile Margi admitted the �� it goes out past Chelsea. It’s tion is just more than 3,000. past few years have been rough just been really exciting to see Cynthia knows technology for the industry, she said there �� Birmingham grow in almost will continue to play a key role are some glimmers of hope that every direction.” in the industry just as it has in 2011 and beyond will improve. �� the first 100 years of the assoAll you have to do, she said, �� ciation. �� THE NEXT 100 YEARS �� See Centennial, page 24 “Social media is really �� The real estate landscape has

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Centennial continued from page 23

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is look at the past. “We have been through some difficult economic situations. We had over 4,000 members before this last recession,” she said. “If people can’t make a living doing this, they have to get out until the market comes back. “Back in the ’80s, our membership went down to a little over 1,000. I do feel like it’s getting better, though. We might still have a few trip-ups, but inventory is shrinking, and existing home sales have picked up this last month.” Other Realtors agree with Margi’s assessment. Realtors Rolanda Hollis, Stephanie Robinson and Dorothy Tayloe recently met to finalize the sale of a Mountain Brook home. All agreed the market has taken an upswing since the start of 2011. “I really do feel like things are starting to pick up and are selling,” Dorothy said. The current climate makes it the perfect time to buy since interest rates are still low, she added. “We’ve also got some really good listings right now, and the sellers are ready to sell,” Stephanie said. Expect in the coming months to hear more about the Centennial Celebration. The association is placing signs around the area – be it on its office building on Independence Drive or on “for sale” signs – with the Centennial Year logo, and soon, Margi said, it will launch a website, www.10 0yearsofopeningdoors.com. “We’re working on a blog where people can send their stories about real estate,” she said. “Then we’ll also have a little tableau with stories about the 100 years in real estate. We really want to encourage people to share their stories.” Cynthia said the purpose of the celebration is to let people know all that the association does, because as Margi said, it’s much more than selling houses. “Our mission it to protect people’s property rights, but we do other things than just real estate,” Cynthia said. “We’re very active in local charities. We just had a blood drive. We’re having a bowling night for kids. There are just lots of other things we do.” The association has plans for an open house in May. Details about the event will be released later. For more information about the Centennial Celebration and events surrounding it, visit the Birmingham Association of REALTORS website at www. barbham.com. ❖

OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL

Peterson-Peterson

Tanner Elizabeth Peterson and Mason Callahan Peterson were married June 5, 2010, at Mountain Chapel Methodist Church in Vestavia. Pastor Steve Blair of Church of the Highlands officiated. The bride is the daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Christopher Joseph Peterson of Homewood. She is the granddaughter of Mr. and Mrs. Richard Joseph Peterson of Childersburg and Mrs. Betty

Long-Crawford

Mr. and Mrs. William Jacob Long of Birmingham announce the engagement of their daughter,

Forman-Robertson

Mr. and Mrs. James Ross Forman III announce the engagement of their daughter, Emily Thomas, to John Snell Robertson III, son of John Snell Robertson Jr. and Mrs. Carolyn Robertson Tubbs of Houston. The bride-elect is the grand-

THURSDAY, MARCH 10, 2011 • 25

WEDDINGS & ENGAGEMENTS

Potts and the late Mr. Robert Dixie Potts of Hoover. The groom is the son of Mr. and Mrs. James David Peterson and Ms. Elaine Rollins Peterson of Homewood. He is the grandson of Mrs. Billie Peterson and the late Dr. James Clay Peterson of Montgomery and the late Mr. and Mrs. Jethro Rollins of Bostic, N.C. Given in marriage by her father, the bride wore an ivory A-line dress of satin and lace by Allure featuring a satin empire waistline accented with pearls and crystals. Her chapel length silk veil was edged in silk ribbon. Attending the bride as maids of honor were her sisters Rachel Elaine Peterson of Charlotte, N.C., and Amanda Jean Peterson and Leah Christine Peterson, both of Homewood. Bridesmaids were Erin Atrell Cornelison, Christine Elizabeth Hayes and Jessica Leigh Paden, all of Homewood; April Wilson McKinney of Trussville; and Rebecca Jean Hackney of Atlanta. The bride’s cousin, Ashlyn Kate

Carroll, was the flower girl. The groom’s father served as best man. Groomsmen were Richard Alex Baguley of Hoover; Daniel Edward McKinney of Trussville; Clayton Hunter Nelson of Nashville, Tenn.; Griffin Michael Peterson of Homewood, brother of the groom; Judson Rollins Peterson of Nashville, brother of the groom; and Curtis Jonathan Shields of Atlanta. Ring bearers were William Blake Carroll and Collin Brooks Carroll, cousins of the bride. A scripture reading was given by Leslie Hunt Nelson of Nashville. Wedding music was provided by Kenneth Watson of Birmingham and Eron and Mary Miller Smith of Auburn. Program attendants were Jordan Elizabeth Moore and Gabrielle Rebekah Bates of Homewood. Following the wedding, a reception was held at Lincpoint, where music was provided by Lisa and the E-lusion. After a honeymoon trip to Riviera Maya, Mexico, the couple is at home in Atlanta.

Beverly Patricia Long, to Evan Barrett Crawford, son of Mr. and Mrs. Ronald Glenn Crawford of Scottsboro. The bride-elect is the granddaughter of the late Dr. and Mrs. Hugh Comer Nabers of Birmingham and Mr. Charles Allen Long Jr. of Point Clear and the late Mrs. Barbara Porter Long. She is a magna cum laude graduate of the University of Alabama multiple abilities program and a summa cum laude graduate of the University of Alabama at Birmingham with a master’s degree in education. She is a member of Alpha Gamma Delta sorority, Golden Key honor society and Kappa Delta Pi honor society. She is employed with

Advent Episcopal School. The prospective groom is the grandson of Mrs. Peggy Word McClendon of Scottsboro and the late Mr. Fred Jack McClendon, the late Mr. William Thomas Holland, the late Mr. Floyd Jackson Crawford and the late Mrs. Virginia Crawford Neely. He is a graduate of the University of Alabama with a bachelor’s degree in finance and attends the University of Alabama at Birmingham in the construction management master’s program. He is a member of Kappa Alpha Order and an Eagle Scout. He is employed with Druid Glass Construction, Inc. The wedding is planned for May 14 at 5:30 at St. Mary’s-onthe-Highlands.

daughter of the late Mr. and Mrs. Thomas Perkins McCabe of Montgomery and Mrs. James Ross Forman Jr. and the late Mr. Forman of Birmingham. She attended Washington and Lee University, where she was a member of Phi Beta Kappa, Beta Gamma Sigma and Kappa Kappa Gamma social sorority. She earned a master’s degree from Harvard University. Miss Forman was presented at the Heritage Ball, the Beaux Arts Krewe Ball and the Redstone Ball. She is employed with Waste Management, Inc., in Houston. The prospective groom is the grandson of the late Mr. and Mrs. John Snell Robertson Sr. of Houston and Mrs. Hoyle Atma Simes and the late Mr. Simes of Houston. He attended the University of Texas in Austin, where he was a member of Kappa Sigma fraternity. Mr. Robertson is employed with Crew Land Research in

Houston. The wedding is planned for May 14 at the Wild Onion Ranch in Austin, Texas.

Best Wishes to Brides & Grooms! To receive wedding & engagement announcement forms, call 823-9646, or e-mail us at editorial@otmj.com

the grandson of Mr. and Mrs. Donald Cesnik of Brentwood and Mrs. Edward Derrick and the late Mr. Derrick of Nashville. He is a graduate of Austin Peay State University and is employed in Nashville. The couple will be married in June at South Highland Presbyterian Church.

Buck-Derrick

Dr. and Mrs. Gray Carroll Buck III of Vestavia Hills announce the engagement of their daughter, Amanda Pettus Buck, to Paul Joseph Derrick of Franklin, Tenn., son of Mr. Joseph Edward Derrick of Nashville and Mrs. Nancy Locke of Franklin. The bride-elect is the granddaughter of Dr. and Mrs. Gray Carroll Buck Jr. of Vestavia Hills and the late Mr. and Mrs. Roscoe C. Smith Jr. of Birmingham. She is a graduate of the University of Alabama in interior design and is employed in Hospitality Design in Birmingham. The prospective groom is

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Drummond-Gannon

Dr. and Mrs. Michael A. Drummond announce the engagement of their daughter, Amy Kathryn Drummond, to James Rainer Gannon, son of Dr. and Mrs. Timothy Hugh Gannon of Dothan. Miss Drummond is the grand-

Underwood-Davis

Mr. and Mrs. Jeffrey T. Underwood of Homewood announce the engagement of their daughter, Maria Mae Underwood, to Zachary William Davis, son of Dr. and Mrs. David Davis of Ridgeland, Miss. Miss Underwood is the grand-

Chandler-Martin

Mr. and Mrs. Cary Scott Chandler of Vestavia Hills announce the engagement of their daughter, Chapple Christine Chandler, to Zackary Hunter Martin, son of Mr. and Mrs. Carl Turner Martin III of Carrollton,

WEDDINGS & ENGAGEMENTS daughter of Dr. and Mrs. Robert M. Amason of Tuscaloosa and Mr. Garry N. Drummond and Mrs. Silvia Easterwood Hoehn of Birmingham. She is a 2007 graduate of Mountain Brook High School. She graduated from the University of Alabama in 2010 with a bachelor’s degree in mathematics and is currently pursuing her master’s degree in secondary math education. Mr. Gannon is the grandson of Mr. and Mrs. Ross Rainer Cotter Jr. and Mr. and Mrs. Herbert Gannon of Enterprise. He is a 2007 graduate of Houston Academy. He will graduate from the University of Alabama in May with a bachelor’s degree in business management and will pursue his master’s of business administration at the University of Alabama this fall. The wedding is planned for May 20 at Mountain Brook Community Church. daughter of the late Mr. and Mrs. Ferrell E. Underwood of Birmingham and the late Mr. John B. Bouchillon of Savannah, Ga., and the late Mrs. Doris Adams of Charleston, S.C. She is a graduate of Homewood High School and Millsaps College in Jackson, Miss., where she earned a bachelor’s degree in religious studies and was a member of Chi Omega sorority. She is employed with United Methodist Volunteers in Missions, Southeastern Jurisdiction in Birmingham. Mr. Davis is the grandson of Mr. Gerald Carlin and the late Mrs. Carlin and Mr. and Mrs. William Ralph Davis. He is a graduate of Ridgeland High School and will graduate from Millsaps College in May with a degree in public management. He is a member of Sigma Alpha Epsilon. The wedding is planned for Dec. 17. Ga. Miss Chandler is the granddaughter of Mr. and Mrs. Frank Joseph Lawrence of Augusta, Ga., formerly of Vestavia Hills, and Mrs. John Chapple Chandler Jr. and the late Col. Chandler of Carrollton, Ga. She is completing her degree at the University of West Georgia where she is a member of Alpha Gamma Delta. Miss Chandler was presented by her father at the 2007 Noel Debutante Ball in Carrollton, Ga. She is employed at Greenway Medical Technologies. Mr. Martin is the grandson of Mr. and Mrs. Wendell Howard Furr of Temple, Ga. and Mr. and Mrs. Fernando Carlos Zapico and the late Mr. Carl Turner Martin Jr. all of Carrollton, Ga. He attended the University of West Georgia. He is employed at Pool RX. The wedding is planned for March 19, 2011.

Hazzard-St. Denis

Mr. and Mrs. Meredyth Roberts Hazzard Jr. and Mr. and Mrs. Craig

Averyt-Escher

Mr. and Mrs. Alexander Henry Averyt of Chelsea announce the engagement of their daughter, Diane Rutherford Averyt, to Peter Keoki Escher, son of Mr. and Mrs. George Fred Escher Jr. of Bellingham, Wash. The bride-elect is the granddaughter of the late Mr. and Mrs. Henry Madison Averyt of Albertville and the late Mr. and Mrs. Harold Osmond Wales of Cheyenne Wells, Colo. She is a graduate of Harvard Business School and Washington and Lee University. She was president of Kappa Alpha Theta sorority and a member of Pi Beta Kappa honor society. She is employed by General Mills in Minneapolis, Minn. The prospective groom is the grandson of Mr. and Mrs. George Fred Escher Sr. of Lanikai, Hawaii and the late Mrs. Victoria Escher of Lanikai. He is a graduate of Harvard Business School and the University of Washington. He is co-author of MBA Oath: Setting a Higher Standard for Business Leaders (April 2010, Penguin) and a member of Phi Gamma Delta fraternity. He is employed by Liberty Mutual in Boston, Mass. The wedding is planned for May 14, 2011.

OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL

Smith Crockard of Birmingham announce the engagement of their daughter, Hilty Ryne Hazzard, to Jeffry Thomas St. Denis, son of Commander and Mrs. Thomas George St. Denis of Virginia Beach, Va. The bride-elect is the granddaughter of Mrs. Meredyth Roberts Hazzard and the late Mr. Hazzard and the late Mr. and Mrs. Robert Bloch Ryne. Miss Hazzard graduated from the Altamont School and the University of Virginia and received a master of fines arts degree in poetry from Virginia Commonwealth University. She earned an AAS in graphic design from Parson School of Design. She is a member of Kappa Delta

Caudle-Bohler

Mr. and Mrs. Keith Caudle of Hoover announce the engagement of their daughter, Abby Taylor Caudle, to James Preston Bohler, son of Mr.and Mrs. Bill Bohler of Marietta, Ga. The bride-elect is the granddaughter of Mr. and Mrs. George Harrison of Brewton and the late

Wall-Rader

Mr. and Mrs. James Thomas Wall Jr. of Birmingham announce the engagement of their daughter, Margaret Brooks, to David Walton Rader, son of Dr. and Mrs. David Lee Rader of Birmingham. Miss Wall is the granddaughter of Mr. and Mrs. George Stone Eastwood II and Mr. and

sorority and the Junior League of Charlottesville. She was presented at the Ball of Roses, the Heritage Ball and the Redstone Club Ball in Birmingham. The prospective groom is the grandson of Mrs. George Alfred St. Denis and the late Mr. St. Denis and Mrs. Robert Holloway Lyon and the late Mr. Gordon Porter Lyman. Mr. St. Denis graduated from the University of Virginia and received an MBA from the University’s Darden School of Business Administration. He is employed in Charlottesville, Va. The wedding is planned for June 25 at Ash-Lawn Highland, James Monroe’s home, in Charlottesville. Mr. and Mrs. Charles Caudle of Cullman. She received a bachelor’s degree in 2007 from Auburn University and a doctorate in 2011. She was a member of Alpha Omicron Pi sorority, National Society of Collegiate Scholars and Delta Epsilon Iota Academic Honor Society. She is employed with Pediatric Ear, Nose & Throat of Atlanta. The prospective groom is the grandson of Mrs. Virginia Matrangos and the late Mr. James S. Matrangos of Marietta and the late Mr. Willard M. Bohler and Ms. Mary Bohler of Jacksonvile, Fla. He received a bachelor’s in 2008 and a masters in 2009 from Auburn University and was a member of Lamda Chi Alpha fraternity. He is employed at The Covenant Group in Atlanta. The wedding is planned for June 18, 2011. Mrs. James Thomas Wall, all of Birmingham. She is a graduate of Mountain Brook High School and was presented at the Ball of Roses and the Heritage Ball. She is a cum laude graduate of Auburn University where she earned her masters of accountancy. She was a member of Beta Alpha Psi Honor society and Sigma Kappa sorority. Mr. Rader is the grandson of Mr. and Mrs. Boyd Vernon Walton, Jr. and Mr. and Mrs. Herbert Lee Rader, all of Birmingham. He is a graduate of Mountain Brook High School and Auburn University with a bachelor’s degree in building science. He was a member of Sigma Nu fraternity. The bride is employed with PriceWaterhouseCoopers, and the groom is employed with Hoar Construction in Houston, Texas. The wedding is planned for May 21, 2011 at St. Luke’s Episcopal Church.

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Above, the John Carroll Junior Varsity Cavalettes are front row from left: Gabbi Prince, captain Dalal Shahid, co-captain Lizzy Urrutia, Elizabeth Miles, Christine Marino and Millie O’Shaughnessy; and in back from left: coach: Lori Tombrello, Allie David, Sarah Newton, Hannah Kendrick, Emily LaRussa, Kate Douglas and Lauren Campisi. Below, members of the Varsity Cavalettes are in front from left: Natalie Giangrosso, MaryKatherine Hann, captain Emily Meineke, co-captain: Ali Money, Mary Theresa Smith and Victoria Pryor; in back from left are: junior varsity coach Lori Tombrello, alumni Jessica Beavert, Catherine Piola, Gabriella LaRussa, Jill Weaver, Brandi Hill, Maude Dinan, Marcy Harris and varsity coach Jennifer Britton. Photos special to the Journal

THURSDAY, MARCH 10, 2011 • 27

SCHOOLS

OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL

West, who performed a typical Chinese streamer dance; and Gwin kindergarten students and first graders from Ellen Stubblefield’s classes, who performed a Chinese dance. Hoover Mayor Tony Petelos encouraged students to be proud to be Americans while also embracing their cultural heritages. At other presentations, the students learned a few steps of a typical Mexican dance and watched as International Baccalaureate students from Hoover High School presented “Around the World in 30 Minutes,” a compilation of skits from several countries. Students then walked the red carpet with a bag of popcorn to attend a movie premier of “If the World Were a Village,” a video based on the book by David J. Smith. They also attended a program called “Asian Infusion,” learned to write Chinese calligraphy, practiced a Chinese lion dance and made origami. Katie Collins, Wendy McBride and Rebecca Salas, Gwin’s English as a Second Language teachers, coordinated the celebration. ❖

Gwin third graders, from left, Lupita Rios-Garcia, Lena Hammoud, Vishali Krishna and Nya Gagakuma enjoyed the school’s International Day events. Photo special to the Journal

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Cavalettes Dance Teams Place in National Competition

The John Carroll Cavalettes’ junior varsity and varsity teams took honors at the 2011 National Dance Team Championship the weekend of Feb. 5 in Orlando, Fla. Both teams competed in jazz and hip-hop after winning both of these categories at the state competition. The varsity team placed third in hip hop against about 60 other teams, and the JV team placed second in hip hop and fourth in jazz. “The whole year has been a great year. The girls are so great and such hard workers. The support from the parents and John Carroll is amazing,” said Lori Tombrello, JV Cavalette coach.

Gwin Elementary Has International Day

Gwin Elementary School in Hoover held its sixth annual International Day celebration Jan. 2. The goal of the event was to provide a fun-filled and educational day for students by helping them experience cultures from around the world. The opening program began with a flag parade, featuring all 37 nationalities of students and staff members at Gwin. Representatives of each country, dressed in native clothing and carried the flags. Gwin Ovation, the school’s awardwinning choir, and the school’s International Day choir sang “Children of the World.” The students watched performances by folkloric Mexican dancing group, Ballet Folclórico Corazón Azteca from Hoover; Okie

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28 • THURSDAY, MARCH 10, 2011

SCHOOLS

Performers at Mountain Brook Junior High’s Art Forms included Frank Phillips and Banks Cooney. Photos special to the Journal

MBJH’s Art Forms Holds Showcase

Mountain Brook Junior High Art Forms winners were highlighted in the showcase Jan. 31 at the school’s Fine Arts Facility. Students competed in three major categories: visual arts, literary arts and performance arts. Seventh grade winners for visual arts were: Charlotte McRae, first community judges and second student choice; Frances Conner, second community judges; Gabby Turnbough, third community judges and student choice; and Adelaide Kimberly, first student choice. Eighth grade visual arts winners were: Kelley Jiang, first community judges and tied for first student choice; Anne Grey Cook, second

place in both community judges and student choice; Alexandra Ball, tied for both third place community judges and first place student choice; Cate, Harmon tied for third place community judges and third place student choice. Ninth grade winning entries were: Ben Jackson, first community judges and tied for first student choice; Olivia Burton, second community judges; Annie Bloomston and Lizzy Donald, third place community judges; Lucas Bradley, tied for first student choice; Virginia Jordan, second place student choice; and Betsy Limbaugh, third place student choice. In the Literary Arts category, students were awarded first through third place trophies and honorable

mention gift cards in three divisions, which were decided by independent community judges. Poetry winners were: Catherine Campbell, first; Carter Ennis, second; Alex Ball, third; and Savannah Thurston, honorable mention. Short story winners were Adelaide Kimberly, first; and Riva Cullinan and Gray Robertson, tied for second place. Winning essay writers were: Charlotte McRae, first and Best Overall for her essay “A Place to Fill Me Up;” Emma Rollins, second; Courtney Niemann, third; Meg Hayslip and Sarah Berryman, tied for honorable mention. Performance arts entrants, judged by several independent performers and artists from the community, received awards in band and individual divisions. For band, the first place award went to Sound of Madness, performing “Frankenstein” by the Edgar Winter Group. Band members are ninth grade students Daniel Neville, Harrison Jones and Rhys Reynolds. Runner-up in the band division was The Messengers, performing “Prisoner” by Need to Breathe. Band members are Kit Goldschmidt, John Cooper, Brooks Glover, Beau Boudreaux and John Horton. Individual awards went to: Seventh grade: Charlotte McRae, first; Bradford Moore, second; and Helen Camp, third. Eighth grade: Erica Nelson, first; Emily Sink, second; and Mary Rives Drake, third. Ninth grade: Frank Phillips, first; Jessica Arzin, second; and Shirazeh Rogers, third. Eighth grader Bill Perry won best overall with his piano performance of “Amazing Grace” by Chris Tomlin/John Newton. Ninth grader Olivia Burton won the logo contest. Her design was featured on the T-shirts distributed

OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL

Lining up for waffles before the announcement of the Newbery Medal winner were Liberty Park Middle School students, from left: Egypt Pettway, Blake Garris, Ellis Holland, Barrett Striplin and Trevor Freeman. Richie Gordon and Bryan Osborn from Waffle House look on. Photo special to the Journal to Art Forms participants. Lee Perry was chairman of the event.

LPMS Celebrates Newbery Award

Students at Liberty Park Middle School celebrated the announcement of the Newbery Medal with a breakfast sponsored by Waffle House. Students read nominated books and then wrote reviews about the books they read. The winner of the Newbery Medal for 2011 was “Moon Over Manifest” by Clare Vanderpool. Participating in the event were students Brooke Boyd, Julie DeCarlo, Emma Fox, Julia Freeman, Blake Garris, Jack Hart, Aysiah Hill, Emma Holmes, Riley Holmes, Krystal Jusino, Katie Larson, Olivia Medley, Kate Meloun, Yazan Nasser, Ashley Orkus, Dominic

Paulter, Egypt Pettway, Caleb Roberson, Rachel Ronson, Barrett Striplin, Sam Wilke, Greta Wistuk, Katie Woods, Abigail Gancayo, Jennah Green, Sara Hameed, Mitchell Hauberg, Wesley Heartsill, Nathan Hospes, Channing Prescott, Isabelle Sager, Caroline Trott, Regan Hardy, Katherine Stahl, Kaitie Sneed and Will Wilson.

Holland Takes Top Teacher Award

Bree Holland, Highlands School Spanish teacher, received the Alabama Association of Foreign Language Teachers 2010 Outstanding K-12 Bree Holland Teacher Award. She will be recognized at the association’s conference at the University of Montevallo.

Author Visits Our Lady of Sorrows

Students at Our Lady of Sorrows Catholic School (OLS) met award-winning children’s author Marfe Ferguson Delano, who visited their school Feb. 18. Delano’s books include many photo-biographies about historical heroes. Delano spoke to the children in the OLS Family Life Center. Her visit included four ageappropriate presentations for children in each grade level. A graduate of Duke University, Delano lives in Alexandria, Va. She is currently Award-winning children’s author Marfe Ferguson Delano autographs working on a children’s book one of her books for students at Our Lady of Sorrows Catholic School about George Washington and during her visit. With her are, from left, students Katie Foster, Joseph slavery, set to be published by Dubruiel and Jacob Pugh. Photo special to the Journal National Geographic in 2012. ❖

Lady Bucs, from back cover

in part by Bob Jones’ tenacious defense – sealed the Lady Bucs’ doom. Once taking the 10-point third quarter lead, Hoover missed 11 consecutive field goal attempts, including several from close range. Once Allen’s trey gave them the lead again, the Lady Bucs missed six more shots. In the second half, Hoover scored only three baskets and shot a dismal 14 percent from the field. It shot 26 percent for the game and connected on just six of 10 free throw attempts. The Lady Bucs were also outrebounded by their rival 38-29. Bob Jones earned the win without

connecting on a single three-point basket. “We knew we had to shoot well,” said Quinn afterward. “Against a team like Bob Jones that defends well, you’ve got to make your shots.” The Lady Patriots’ defensive strategy appeared to force Hoover out of its comfortable shots. The tactics worked, according to Lady Buc sophomore guard Breigha Cochran. “Give them credit, Jones did a good job,” said Cochran. “They rushed our offense and pushed us out further than we wanted to be.” True enough, but the number of close-in shots Hoover missed foretold that it just wasn’t the Lady Bucs’ day to win. “There’s really no answer for it

Rebels, from back cover “Their comeback late in the first half kind of withered us,” Truss said later. “Murphy went into the dressing room with a lot of momentum. They kept it up when they came back for the third quarter.” Another problem for Vestavia was that Patrick Prewitt, a senior starter and defensive stalwart, picked up three fouls in the first half. The Rebels battled though the third quarter, although Truss’s efforts were hampered when he was called for his third and fourth fouls. Murphy finally tied the game at 4040 with only a minute remaining in the third period. Vestavia struggled with its shooting and foul problems but used defensive play and hustle to hang in the game. The Panthers took the lead for good at 55-53 with just over three minutes remaining in the game. The Rebels then missed their next six field goal attempts, most of them coming from inside the paint, as Murphy outscored them 10-3 over that stretch. William Dillard’s three-point basket with seconds remaining cut the Panthers’ final margin to six points as the clock struck midnight on Vestavia’s Cinderella story. Murphy’s Troyce Manassa led all scorers with 28 points. Dillard led Vestavia with 18 points. Rebel sophomore guard Anton Cook added 10. Truss scored 12 points but played only 13 minutes because of his foul problems. Vestavia shot only 37 percent from the field in the second half and connected on only 16 of 26 free throw attempts in the game. “If we could have stayed out of foul trouble and hit our own free throws, this could have been a different game,” said Truss. “But that’s basketball.” Murphy coach Timothy Waller candidly admitted that getting key Rebels in foul trouble early was part of his strategy. “Our game plan was to get Truss

THURSDAY, MARCH 10, 2011 • 29

SCHOOLS

OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL

William Dillard led the Rebels in scoring with 18 points against Murphy in the semifinals. Journal photo by Marvin Gentry

with a couple of fouls early on and get him out of his game,” said Waller. “Fortunately for us, that’s what happened.” Rebels coach George Hatchett’s disappointment with the loss was tempered by his pride in his team’s unlikely run to the Final Four. “I’m not as sure that Murphy’s press hurt us as much as unforced errors we made at times,” said the coach. “Sure, it hurts to lose. But this doesn’t take away from what our players accomplished this year.” It certainly didn’t. Vestavia won only 11 games in the entire regular season, yet fell one quarter short of playing for its second state 6A title in three years. “We were not a perfect basketball team, but we came together at the right time,” said Truss. “Today just wasn’t our day to win.”

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right now,” said Quinn. “You just have to swallow your pride and move on.” Allen led Hoover’s scoring with 11 points. Chardonae Fuqua added 10. Bob Jones’ Tierra Jones led all scorers with 15 points, while her teammate Jasmine Jones scored nine points and grabbed 14 rebounds to be named tournament MVP. Hoover’s Allen, Fuqua and Cochran qualified for the All-

Tournament team. The Lady Bucs completed their year at 33-4, but the frustrating loss will make it a long off-season. “Sure it hurts,” Cochran. “But we will learn from this and get better because of what happened.” Don’t expect Hoover to disappear anytime soon. The team has only one senior, and a fresh influx of new talent is expected to join the varsity roster next season. And

this team’s underclassmen will be a year old and a year wiser. “We expect to be back,” said Cochran. “That’s what Hoover basketball is all about – winning championships. That’s what the public expects, that’s what our coaches expect and that’s what we expect.” But Bob Jones, with three titles in four years, has its own high expectations. And at the end, 2011 belonged to the Lady Patriots.

30 • THURSDAY, MARCH 10, 2011

SPORTS

Bus Rout Rebels, Mounties: Oak Mountain Wins

OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL

The Sharks Down Black Tide to Earn Title

The Sharks are the Mountain Brook third grade Boys Rec League Basketball Champions. The team coached by Ted Ernstberger defeated the Black Tide 21-20 to claim the championship. Team members above are, front row, from left: Harrison Ware, Riley Smith and Cooper Lindsey. Standing from left: Aaron Vajda, Nate Ernstberger, Ted Ernstberger-coach and Richman Priestly Hoover’s John Maxwell tags out Vestavia’s Brooks Neely at the plate. The Bucs beat the Rebels 12-2 in the Metro Tournament game. Journal photo by Lee Walls, Jr.

BY LEE DAVIS

ters. Oak Mountain ripped HewittTrussville 9-2 behind Keith t’s always an event when Quinn’s two triples and two RBIs. Hoover meets Vestavia Hills Matt Byars had a triple, a single in any sport, and last Thursday and two RBIs. Barrett Gossett had was no exception as the Bucs two hits for the Eagles. whipped the Rebels 12-2 in the Pitcher Robby Clements hurled Metro Tournament. five shutout innings and yielded Junior right-handed pitcher just two hits. He struck out six Patrick Conway led Hoover with a Hewitt batters. three-run homer and drove in two Spain Park crushed Thompson more runs. He also pitched five 11-1. Chris Ellis had three hits, innings to earn the victory. scored three runs and had two Matt Barnes had two RBIs for RBIs for the Jaguars. Paul Angel the Bucs. Ben Gann had a double hit a bases-empty home run for and two RBIs for Vestavia. the winners. In Friday baseball action, Mikey White and Alex Close Hoover crushed Shades Valley 12- each had two hits. White also �� 1. Adam Wilson had three hits earned the win for Spain Park. � �� and scored three runs, while Evan Indian Springs defeated�archri�� Proctor and Josh Amery each val Shades Mountain Christian �� 7�� had two hits. Buc pitcher Mark 4. David Busby had two hits and Cameron Kassow earned the vic- two RBIs for the winners. Stephen tory. Himic was the winning pitcher. Hoover also defeated Clay- Kyle Nation had three hits for the Chalkville 4-2. Patrick Conway Eagles. had two RBIs. The pitching of Clay-Chalkville scored six runs Jonathan Whitehead and Matt �� in the bottom of the seventh inning Barnes stymied the Cougar bat- to take a 6-5 win over Vestavia

JOURNAL SPORTS WRITER

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Hills. Saturday’s schedule was shortened by rain, but Pelham defeated Hoover 2-1 in baseball. Matt Barnes drove in the Bucs’ only run.

Softball

Hoover took a pair of wins in the Auburn Invitational. The Lady Bucs defeated Russell County 5-1 as Marcy Harper hit a home run and drove in two runs to help her own cause. Harper struck out 12 Russell batters. Freshman Emily Turner homered for Hoover. The Lady Bucs also edged Smiths Station 4-3. Harper’s tworun homer gave Hoover the victory. Kaylee Sparks had two hits and scored two runs. Harper ran her record to 6-0, earning the victory in relief. She struck out five batters in three innings.

Boys’ Soccer

In boys’ soccer, Ramsay defeated Shades Mountain 4-0.

Mountain Brook Season and Tourney Champs

Mountain Brook Fifth Grade Girls recently won the Over the Mountain Basketball 2011 Regular Season and the Tournament Championships. Team members are, Hannah Bartels, Kathleen Beall, Kay Kay Benck, Whitton Bumgarner, Lucy Holman, Sarah Kate Horsley, Lacey Jeffcoat, Caroline Keller, Mary Rose Rutledge, Anna Windle, and Natalie Womack.

Spartans Finish Season Undefeated

The third grade girls Mountain Brook Spartans basketball team just completed an undefeated season which included winning the Jingle Bell Jam and the end of season Over the Mountain Tournament. The team is coached by Russell Vandevelde and Carter Clay. Team members above are, front row, from left: Lily Rowe, Hannon Tatarek, Charlotte Gillum, Frances Lyons, Grace Carr, and Cate Jones. Back row, from left: Coach Carter Clay, Hollis Clay, Liz Vandevelde, Ann Vandevelde, Courtney Clark, and Coach Russell Vandevelde.

OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL

Memorable, from back cover

had only one senior on its varsity roster, so some of the mistakes were the natural outgrowth of youthfulness. At the BJCC, it appeared early on that Hoover might have gotten rid of some of those intensity problems. In the semifinal against Blount, the Lady Bucs reversed form by starting off sloppily before stepping on the gas for an impressive 67-38 blowout. Hoover did show a few chinks in its armor, however, as it shot an uninspiring 45 percent from the field and a particularly dismal 35 percent from the free throw line. The Lady Buc machine seemed to be hitting on all cylinders in the much-anticipated state final against Bob Jones. Hoover moved to a 28-18 advantage midway through the third quarter before all the little problems the team had experienced all season magnified into big ones. Incredibly, Hoover sank only three field goals in the entire second half and shot a weak 14 percent from the field. The Lady Patriots’ strong defensive effort had a lot to do with Hoover’s second half woes, but the defending champions also missed a lot of easy buckets. The result was a 39-36 loss that had to leave Lady Bucs fans shaking their heads in dismay. Despite the disappointing finishes, 20102011 was probably a portent of more good times for both Vestavia and Hoover. Hatchett will say goodbye to seven seniors, but good young talent like Anton Cook (just a sophomore) and Bayrn Houston will give the Rebels a solid base to build on next year. And again, if any coach in Alabama has earned the honor of “Mr. February,” it’s

THURSDAY, MARCH 10, 2011 • 31

SPORTS Hoover dominated the regular season and the post-season tournaments with a sparkling 32-3 record, and few expected the Lady Bucs not to reach the Class 6A Final Four. Breion Allen, left puts up a shot in the Lady Bucs’ semifinal win over Blount. Journal photo by Marvin Gentry

Hatchett. Hoover’s girls’ program, as outstanding as it has been under the leadership of Quinn and former coach Lori Elgin, is probably going to get even better. With only one senior departing, the Lady Bucs will add some impressive newcomers to its varsity roster. Barring an unprecedented rash of injuries or bad luck, Hoover will probably enjoy another 30-plus win season in 2012, with the only question being whether the team can get the job done in March. Incidentally, the Hoover-Bob Jones rivalry in girls’ basketball just might be the best one going in Alabama high school athletics these days. The Lady Bucs and Lady Patriots have played for the state 6A title for the past two seasons, with each winning once. Hoover and Bob Jones also squared off four times this season. They split the series, but of course, the Lady Patriots won the one that meant the most. Don’t shed any tears for Hoover, however. Despite Saturday’s setback, Quinn’s Orange Powerhouse will likely keep rolling on.

Crain Recieves Tip Off Club Award

Hoover senior basketball player John Crain was named Coca Cola Player of the Week by the Birmingham Tip Off Club recently. Crain, above with Hoover coach Charles Burkett, a two-year starter for the varsity squad, is co-captain of his team. He has earned a 33 on his ACT and is a member of the National Honor Society, Mu Alpha Theta, and the Spanish Honor Society. He also serves as a Peer Helper at Hoover High. He is the son of Trisha Crain of Hoover and Scott Crain of Forest Park.

OVER THE MOUNTAIN

JOU RNAL THURSDAY, MARCH 10, 2011

Sports

Second Half Blues

WEEKEND WRAP UP

Bucs Rout Rebels, Mounties; Oak Mountain Wins. See page 30

Late Hoover Fade Costs Bucs Title BY LEE DAVIS

JOURNAL SPORTS WRITER

he Hoover Lady Bucs went into last week’s Class 6A Final Four ranked as one of America’s finest girls’ basketball teams. Hoover had run roughshod over its opposition in the regular season, posting a 32-3 record, with only one loss coming from an instate team. That team, by the way, happened to be the Bob Jones Lady Patriots, whom Hoover had faced early in the season. Hoover avenged the defeat against Jones by a 43-30 count a week later and whipped the Lady Patriots by nine in mid-January. The Lady Bucs, in fact, dominated their schedule so thoroughly that Coach Donnie Quinn was relegated to complaining publicly about his team’s alleged lack of intensity – even after 22-point wins over quality opponents. Hoover was so good, it seemed, that Quinn had to practically invent flaws in his team – because no coach worth his or her salt will ever admit to being 100 percent satisfied. In Thursday’s semifinal, the Lady Bucs looked as strong as ever. They demolished a good Blount Vestavia’s Patrick Prewitt applies pressure to Murphy’s Michael Manning in the Rebels 6A semifinal loss. More photos at otmj.com. Journal photo by Marvin Gentry

team 67-38, although Quinn did point out that the Leopards had out-rebounded Hoover 21-20 at halftime. But by any reasonable measure, the Lady Bucs were peaking at the right time for Saturday’s 6A championship finale against – guess who – Bob Jones in the ultimate battle for the blue trophy. And until well into the third quarter on that rainy afternoon, Hoover looked like the juggernaut that had won 33 games and earned a top 20 national ranking. The Lady Bucs had moved to a 2818 lead over Jones, and a second straight state championship looked virtually inevitable. But it didn’t happen. Bob Jones went on a 13-2 run to take the lead at 31-30 with 6:29 in the game. Hoover responded with a free throw to tie the game at 31-31. Breion Allen’s three-point shot put the Lady Bucs back in front 34-31 with 4:28 left in the game. But after that, the Lady Patriots regained control, taking advantage of Hoover’s poor shooting to take a 39-36 win and earn their third state championship in four years. The shooting problems – caused

See Lady Bucs, page 29

Lee Davis

Despite Disappointing Finishes, Vestavia and Hoover Had Memorable Seasons

Hoover’s Kayla Anderson attempts to drive past a Bob Jones defender in the Lady Bucs’ 6A state championship game last weekend. More photos at otmj.com Journal photo by Tom Neil

Midnight Basketball

Vestavia Cinderella Story Ends at BJCC

BY LEE DAVIS

JOURNAL SPORTS WRITER

he Vestavia Hills boys’ basketball team’s run to the Class 6A Final Four was the kind of stuff of which fairy tales – and movies – are made. Maybe the sequel to “Hoosiers” could have been “Rebels.” Movie plots aside, the Rebels’ amazing championship run was so incredible that Vestavia had to actually win the Class 6A title to end 2010-11 with a break-even 17-17 season. But the clock finally struck midday for Vestavia’s epic ragsto-riches journey, as the Rebels saw their championship hopes die in Thursday morning’s semifinal at the BJCC. Murphy took advantage of early Vestavia foul trouble and used its own aggressive press to take a 65-59 victory. The loss dropped the Rebels’ final record to 15-18, but their strong post-season worksheet will be their lasting legacy.

Vestavia started the game by effectively getting inside, highpercentage shots. On the down side, senior William Truss, the Rebels’ top scorer, was whistled for two fouls in the game’s first two minutes – in which he had also scored his team’s first five points. Baryn Houston and Anton Cook made steals that set up transition baskets, and Vestavia enjoyed a 16-8 advantage as the first period ended. The Rebels’ hot shooting continued in the second period, and their lead grew to 26-13 with about three and a half minutes remaining in the first half. Murphy began to press effectively, forcing Vestavia into turnovers and bad shots. The Panthers outscored their rival 12-6 for the remainder of the quarter and went into halftime trailing only 32-24, despite the fact that Vestavia shot a sizzling 72 percent from the field in the first two periods.

See Rebels, page 29

he Vestavia Hills boys’ and Hoover girls’ basketball teams took vastly different routes to the state Final Four last week, but both sadly ended the week in Disappointment Alley. Once again Rebel coach George Hatchett proved he is the best post-season coach anywhere by taking a Vestavia team with only 11 regular season victories to within one quarter of playing for the state 6A championship. The Rebels battled gamely as they pretty much ran out of gas in the fourth quarter of their 65-59 loss to Murphy of Mobile. Vestavia put itself behind the proverbial eight ball early on when aces William Truss and Patrick Prewitt got into early foul trouble. For a while, however, it looked like good offensive penetration and a high shooting percentage might be enough to give the Rebels the victory. Unfortunately, Vestavia hit a cold streak at just the wrong time, and the Panthers took control late to seal the victory. The Rebels’ final record was only 15-18, but few Vestavia loyalists will remember anything about the season besides their team’s memorable dash through late February. On the other hand, Hoover’s girls dominated the regular season and the post-season tournaments with a sparkling 32-3 record, and few expected the Lady Bucs not to reach the Class 6A Final Four. Hoover lived up to its billing, crushing most of its opposition by impressive scores. Often, however, the Lady Bucs’ games became so one-sided so quickly that at times, the team seemed to lose focus and intensity, a characteristic that drew the ire of Coach Donnie Quinn. The lapses were more understandable when you consider that Hoover

See Memorable, page 31