Over the Mountain Journal Just 16, 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 JUNE 16, 2011

‘Mad’ About A Cure The Pink Palace Casino Night raised more than $270,000 for the Breast Cancer Research Foundation of Alabama. The fourth annual event was held May 14 at the Riverchase Galleria’s North Tower. More than 450 guests turned out for the Alice in Wonderland-themed evening. See Social, page 14.

For the second time in three years, volunteers,from Vestavia Hills, including Cynthia McGough, above, have given Michelle Hunt and her family an opportunity she otherwise couldn’t afford: a house of her own. See People, page 8.

Dr. David Askenazi, an assistant professor of pediatrics with Children’s Hospital, has made it his mission to help dads cope with their children’s illnesses through Camp BRIDGES. See Life, page 10.

Paige Brannon Harris’ childhood dream of getting married on the shores of Lake Martin came true at a wedding that emphasized family and friends. We’ve got more ideas for making the big day distinctive in this issue. Our Weddings Special Section starts on page 24.

2 • THURSDAY, JUNE 16, 2011

CONTENTS/OPINION

OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL

MURPHY’S LAW

That’s All I’m Going to Say

resident of Bromberg & Company’s Ricky Bromberg discusses the history of the Birmingham institution, which celebrates its 175th anniversary this year. See page 26.

eterinarian Hugh Washington and wife Patti have taken their business on the road. Instead of pets coming to see them, they now travel to their patient’s homes for vet care and grooming. See People, page 6.

ake this Father’s Day extra special for dad with great gift ideas from Over the Mountain Merchants. See Father’s Day Gift Guild, page 10.

OTMJ.COM ee more photos from Over the Mountain social events, and plan your weekends with our extended online calendar.

Have a happy and safe Fourth. We’ll be taking our annual summer break and will return July 14.

F E AT U R E S ABOUT TOWN PEOPLE LIFE GIFT GUIDE

3 7 10 11

SOCIAL WEDDINGS SCHOOLS SPORTS

OVER THE MOUNTAIN

JOU RNAL

14 24 22 36

June 16, 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 Interns: Martha Blanton and Matthew Terwilliger Vol. 20, No. 12 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.

few weeks ago, my the internet, we presented ourselves at the bridal shop. older daughter called An hour and a half later, my no-nonsense daughter to say that she was emerged from the fitting room in The Dress. getting married. We were It was gorgeous. Really. When my grown-up little thrilled. She met a nice girl turned to check her reflection in the full-length guy. He makes her happy. mirror, it took my breath away, and for now, that’s Who could ask for more? all I can tell you because she has sworn me to dress Then, amidst the teardetail secrecy. She wants it to be a surprise. ful congratulations, she It will be. dropped the bomb: She and Unlike her younger sibling, my older daughter her fiancé had selected a was never much for frills. In fact, when I pictured her wedding day in October. wedding day, I had visions of her coming down the Susan Murphy This October. As in four aisle in a pair of camo shorts and a slightly questionmonths from now. With an able shirt of the cartoon variety. You see, this was audible smile still planted on my Star Wars child, my happy my face I said, “Sounds great, little tent camper, the one who You see, this will be a long marched with the sousaphone in sweetie.” Then I hung up the phone and went into panic university band. I barely got distance wedding. She’s get- her mode. her into a dress for her senior ting married in California. prom You see, this will be a long distance wedding. She’s getthere we were in a retail Two hours time difference. landYetoverflowing ting married in California. with strapless A thousand miles from here. corset tops and crinoline skirts. Two hours time difference. A thousand miles from here. Four you looked there Four months? Was she trying Everywhere months? Was she trying to kill were bows and ruffles and lace. me? It was like dropping the poor to kill me? I quickly ran to the bookstore child behind enemy lines. (my first step in any important Thankfully there emerged a endeavor) and bought two idenhero, a kind, patient salesperson tical wedding planners so my daughter and I could who had obviously taken on even tougher challenges. literally be on the same bridal planning page. I overUnder her expert tutelage, my daughter was gently nighted her copy and set mine close to the phone so I guided through her options. When a dress rated nine could panic across the time zones. on the Right One Richter scale, the eight also-rans I didn’t need to. My daughter is a focused young were whisked away. In the end, the decision was easy. woman and in no time she had the big items taken With the flick of a credit card (which wasn’t all care of – church, officiate, photographer, reception that painful. Thank you, sweetie), The Dress was ours. hall. Check, check, check, check. We returned home to celebrate with barbecue and She’s also thoughtful. To save her harried mother those delicious little cheese biscuits that pack more an extra trip to California, she booked a flight home calories than two scoops of rocky road ice cream ... over Memorial Day weekend so we could shop for her which we had for dessert. It had been a long but sucwedding dress while her younger sister also happened cessful day. to be in town. Shortly after her plane hit the tarmac, We’ll need several more to be ready for an October we stopped to fuel up with iced tea and chocolate, and liftoff. The giant bridal to-do list continues, but at the hunt was on. least we have The Dress. And it’s beautiful. Really. Armed with two contender photos researched from That’s all I’m going to say. ❖

OVER THE MOUNTAIN VIEWS How are you keeping cool this summer?

“Nothing beats the heat like an ice cold lemonade. I plan to have one in hand while I lounge by the pool all summer and work on my tan.” Elizabeth Ross Mountain Brook

“The only way to beat this heat is to stay inside! But going to the pool, especially if there’s a lazy river involved, will help make it bearable.” Lisa Jeffries Vestavia Hills

“I lifeguard all day so it’s hard to escape the heat! I get in the pool as much as possible.” Mary Kate Reynolds Vestavia Hills

“My family has a house on Lake Logan Martin. Going for boat rides makes it easy to stay cool while enjoying summer.” Robert Harris Vestavia Hills

ABOUT TOWN

Fourth is Full of Fun Events

OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL

he calendar is crowded with events celebrating Independence Day, from fireworks to family-friendly gatherings:

✯ The 30th annual “I Love America” Summer Celebration Series will kick off its first event June 30 from 6:30 to 9 p.m. The event is hosted by the Vestavia Hills Chamber of Commerce and the Vestavia Hills Parks and Recreation Department. The second “I Love America” event will be Aug. 12 from 6:30 to 9:30 p.m. Both events will be at Wald Park in Vestavia Hills. Admission is free. Soft drinks and food will be available for purchase. Entertainment includes swimming, music, a movie in the park and more. For more information, visit www.vestaviahills.org. ✯ The city of Homewood and Homewood Parks and Recreation will celebrate the Fourth of July in Downtown Homewood again this year. Downtown streets will be closed to vehicles to make way for pedestrian traffic. The event opens to the general public at 5 p.m. There will be a combination of inflatables and rides for children. A D.J. will provide music and interactive activities. Downtown Homewood is also a good location to view the “Thunder on the Mountain” fireworks show at Vulcan Park. All rides and inflatables will close before the fireworks show. Tickets will be sold for the rides and inflatables. Proceeds from the event will benefit the H.E.A.T. program at Homewood Parks and Recreation. The program provides recreational opportunities for Homewood sixth-eighth graders. ✯ Morgan Creek Vineyards in Harpersville will host its annual Fourth of July Celebration in the Vineyards July 2 from 6 to 10 p.m. Tickets are $10 and include parking, winery tours, wine tasting, fireworks and live music by Tekneek. Those who attend can bring blankets, chairs and picnics or purchase food on site. Patriotic songs will play before the fireworks show. ✯ For the first time since 2007, the Birmingham Barons will celebrate Independence Day with a fireworks show July 4 at Regions Park in Hoover. The show will follow a special 6 p.m. game against the Mobile BayBears, the Double-A affiliate of the Arizona Diamondbacks. General admission tickets are $7 each. For more information, visit www.barons.com. ✯ Thunder on the Mountain 2011, Birmingham’s traditional Independence Day fireworks demonstration, will once again light up the skies above Vulcan starting at 9 p.m. July 4.

Prime viewing locations include Southside, Five Points South, downtown Homewood, the UAB campus and Sibyl Temple in Vestavia Hills. Visit www.visitvulcan.com for more viewing tips. Vulcan Park and Museum will be open July 4 from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. for visitors. After 6 p.m. the park will be closed to the public as the grounds and parking lots will be cleared and closed for safety

THURSDAY, JUNE 16, 2011 • 3

purposes.

✯ The 62nd Our Lady of Sorrows Independence Day Festival will be July 4 from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. in the OLS parking lot. Entertainment includes karaoke, fish ponds, cake booths, a ring toss, bingo, hot wheel racing, darts, putting greens and a raffle. Raffle tickets are $5 each; this year’s grand prize is a 2011 Toyota Yaris.

Come see the All New Audi A6, A7 and A8 during Tom Williams Audi

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Joe Falconer, left, of Homewood and John Spratley of Vestavia Hills check out the car being given away at the Fourth of July Festival at Our Lady of Sorrows. Joe donated the car in honor of his parents.

Photo special to the Journal

4 • THURSDAY, JUNE 16, 2011

ABOUT TOWN

OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL

The annual Trash n’ Treasure rummage sale will be in the gym from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Food will be sold during the event and includes barbecue plates, hot dogs, smoked sausages and pork sandwiches. – Complied by Martha Blanton

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‘Funky Monkey’ Is Camp SAM Benefit

The Junior Board of Camp Smile-A-Mile will host its fifth annual Funky Monkey event June 23 from 6 to 10 p.m. at B&A Warehouse. Included are food, beer and wine and more than 100 silent auction items. Altamont will provide entertainment. Tickets are $35 for an individual, $60 a couple and $500 for a corporate table. The event benefits Camp SmileA-Mile’s year-round programs for Alabama children with cancer. Visit campsam.org for more information or to buy tickets.

‘Rock the Runway’ Has Circus Theme

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This year’s Rock the Runway, “Cirque du Rock,” promises a night of fashion, rock and roll and the outrageousness of the circus. The event will be July 14 from 7 to 11 p.m. at Sloss Furnaces. The rock band Fly by Radio will set the tone with rock hits, while models wearing circus-inspired Steampunk designs strut the runways. Circus and carnival sideshow acts will perform. For more information, call Scot Wedgeworth at 834-7670 or Heather Foster at 903-8758.

SVHS Grads Plans 50th Reunion

The Shades Valley High School Class of 1961 will celebrate its 50th reunion June 18 from 7 to 11 p.m. at The Club. Members of the reunion planning committee are Johnny Coats, Wayne Harrell, Jim Black, Carolyn Johnson Titone, Warren Arrasmith, Carolee Jones Adderhold and Michal Hill Harrell. Attire is business casual. The cost is $100 and includes heavy hors

Camp Smile-A-Mile Junior Board president Justin Truelove and his wife Jordan, who also serves on the junior board, are among those helping plan this year’s Funky Monkey event. Photo special to the Journal d’oeuvres, cash bar, music from the 1950s and ’60s and gift bags. A class photo will be taken and delivered at the reunion. The cost is $20 each. For more information, contact Carolee Jones Adderhold at 837-1091.

VHHS Class of ’81 Will Reunite

The Vestavia Hills High School Class of 1981 will have a 30year reunion July 15 and 16. The Friday night event will be at Aloft in downtown Homewood. The Saturday night gathering will be at Park Lane in English Village. For more information, contact Chris Hershey at chershey99@gmail.com or 908-1162.

Regent Forest Will Sell Boston Butts

The Regent Forest Neighborhood Association will host a Boston butt fundraiser for July Fourth to benefit neighborhood improvement projects. The Boston butts are $30 each. All orders must be turned in to Melinda Wells by June 20. Pickup will be June 24 from 6 to 7:30 p.m. at Melinda’s home, 2345 Queensview Rd. in Hoover. The meat is supplied by Firehouse BBQ. The butts typically

average 7.5 pounds before smoking and will produce enough meat to make 12 to 15 sandwiches. They come in a sealed bag, cooked, and ready to eat. They can be reheated in the bag from freezer to oven at 200 degrees. For more information or to request an order, e-mail Melinda Wells at davemelinda@bellsouth. net.

Homewood High Class of ’81 to Reunite

The Homewood High School Class of 1981 will have its 30year reunion July 22 and 23. There will be a school tour and lunch the morning of July 23, and that evening the weekend’s main event will be at Botanical Gardens from 7 p.m.-midnight. The evening’s events include catering by Louise Dennis with entertainment from DJ Geno Pearson. Beer and wine will be provided. Set-ups also will be provided for those who prefer to bring their own bottle and have a bartender tag, store and mix your favorite drinks. The events for July 22 have not been determined. For more information and updates visit www.homewoodhighschoolclassof1981.myevent. com or find the event on Facebook.

Fishing Tournament Benefits Girl Scouts

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Members of the Shades Valley High School Class of 1961 reunion plan�� ning committee include, from left: Johnny Coats, Wayne Harrell, Jim �� Black, Carolyn Johnson Titone, Warren Arrasmith and Carolee Jones �� Adderhold. Photo special to the Journal

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The second annual Bill Ireland Invitational Fishing Tournament will be June 24-25 on Lake Alice at Kanawahala Program Center (KPC) in Chelsea. Proceeds will benefit the Girl Scouts of NorthCentral Alabama. The tournament will kick off June 24 with a Captain’s Party from 6 to 8:30 p.m. at KPC. The event includes a silent auction and dinner by the award-winning Alabama Wildlife Federation cooking team, the Cajun Connection. Following a 6 a.m. breakfast

THURSDAY, JUNE 16, 2011 • 5

ABOUT TOWN

OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL

Getting ready for the third annual Iron City Chef competition are from left: Chefs Joseph Mitchell with Jefferson State Community College, Angela Schmidt with Chef U and Tom Roby with The Veranda on Highland, Vestavia Rotarian Kent Hall, Vestavia High students Owen Scott, Wendy Feng and Austin Locke and Vestavia High debate coach Ben Osborne and math coach Todd Taylor.

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Journal Photo by Laura McAlister

June 25, the tournament will begin with a shotgun start at Lake Alice on KPC and other private local lakes. Lunch and an awards presentation will follow. Overnight accommodations can be provided. Sponsorship levels range from $500 to $2,500. The fishing tournament, which started in 2004, is being revived in honor of Girl Scout supporter Bill Ireland Sr. Gabe Hulbert is event chairman. Other committee members include Tahiera Brown, Tom Clark, Phyllis Davis, Marjorie Davis-Trimm, April Deal, Joel Goldstein and Alice Williams. For more information, contact Julie Carter at jcarter@girlscoutsnca.org or 800734-4541, ext. 1030. Visit www. girlscoutsnca.org/fishing for a sponsorship brochure.

Chefs Compete For Good Causes

Four of Birmingham’s top chefs will cook for a cause in an Iron Chef-style competition hosted by the Vestavia Hills Rotary Club. Iron City Chef 2011 will be July 16 at 6 p.m. at the Jefferson State Community College Culinary Institute at the corner of Jaguar Dr. and Valleydale Rd. The event benefits the Vestavia Hills debate and math teams, the local Rotary District Disaster Relief Fund and Rotary International End Polio Now and Clean Water for the World. Contestants include Tom Robey with The Veranda on Highland, Clifton Holt with Little Savannah, Angela Schmidt with Chef U and Haller Magee with Satterfield’s. The event includes a wine tasting sponsored by Western

Supermarkets, music from Sweet Licks and a silent auction. Tickets are $55 per person and have sold out in past years. For more information or to buy tickets, visit www.rotarytoast.org.

Sport Festival Opening Set for June 24

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The opening ceremony for the Alabama Sports Festival, which will be televised statewide, is June 24 at 7 p.m. at the BirminghamJefferson Civic Center’s main arena. There is no charge to attend. The annual festival, which is the state’s largest multi-sport event, follows Olympic traditions, including the opening ceremony with a lighting of the state games flame. Visit www.alagames.com for more information. ❖

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Portable Pet Care

ABOUT TOWN / PEOPLE

OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL

Getting ready for Raleigh Avenue Baptist Church’s Rock the Block Party are from left: Frankie Catchings, Catherine Sellers Kally Boyles, the Rev. Larry Roberts, Avelyn Truitt and Ashlee Sellers.

Raleigh Baptist Rocks the Block

Raleigh Avenue Baptist Church in Homewood will host a Rock the Block Party June 19 at 3 p.m. at the church. The event includes food, fun and fellowship for all ages. Vacation Bible School for ages 3 through sixth grade also will kick off that day at 5 p.m. VBS will continue June 20-23 from 6 to 8:30 p.m. with crafts, music, recreation and a snack supper each evening. For information or to register, visit www.rabc.org or call 9428060.

Sloss Event Helps Preserve Heritage

Sloss Furnaces National Historic Landmark will host its second an-

Photos special to the Journal

nual “Preserving the Heritage” Sloss Silent Auction June 26 from 5 to 8 p.m. All proceeds will go toward phase II of the Sloss Boilers Preservation Project. The boilers provided the steam that powered more than 90 percent of the site. The steam was essential for powering the enormous blast furnaces that made Sloss Furnaces one of the world’s largest producers of pig iron. Proceeds from phase II will go toward structural and masonry repairs. Auction items include unique pieces of Sloss Furnaces as well as items provided by local artists, photographers, merchants and organizations. Artists Bethanne Betherd Hill, Byron Sonnier, Doug Baulos and John Wilson are using actual pig iron bars cast at Sloss to create four unique pieces of art representing their individual styles. Live music will be provided by the New Grass Troubadours. Light hors d’oeuvres and wine and beer will be served. Tickets are $15 and can be purchased at www.slossfurnaces.com or by calling 324-1911. In addition to benefiting the Sloss Boilers Preservation Project, a portion of proceeds will be donated to the American Red Cross for the April 27 tornado recovery. ❖

Patti and Dr. Hugh Washington sit with their Australian Shepherd Kylie in their vet and grooming van. They closed their Hoover office about a year ago to open the mobile practice, Get It Together.

Journal photo by Laura McAlister

Veterinarian, Groomer Go Mobile to Make House Calls

BY LAURA MCALISTER JOURNAL EDITOR

fter running their practice in a small office for more than 20 years, Dr. Hugh Washington and wife Patti decided it was time to hit the road – literally. About a year ago, the team – Hugh is a veterinarian and Patti a pet groomer – decided to get rid of their Hoover office and trade it in for a van full time. Instead of patients coming to them, the Washingtons now travel to their homes to provide pet care. While several pet groomers have gotten on board and taken their business mobile, the

Washingtons’ practice is the only one they know of in the state that provides grooming as well as basic vet care and services in portable form. Because of that, they named their new practice Get it Together. The former Met Vet owners said they decided to go mobile for both the pet owners and their furry companions. “One of the reasons we wanted to do this is I noticed we did have some elderly people who had problems getting to the office,” Patti said. “We also have some dogs that get sick or can’t ride well in the car.” The Washingtons found a van online that was equipped with a sink with hot water and vacuum cutter for grooming, as well as an examination table and tools and plenty of storage for medications and samples. All the care is done

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for the animals inside the air-conditioned vehicle. Although they are limited some with their practice on wheels – Patti said she can’t really handle dogs weighing much more than 100 pounds, and Hugh said pets that need special care would be referred to a specialist – they said the response has been good. “It works well because we have a window here that you can’t see in, but the pets can see out,” Hugh said. “So they can be looking at their yard and house while we’re seeing them. They’re much more comfortable.” Pet owners don’t even have to be home when the Washingtons visit, which Patti said has been a big plus for many of her clients. “Most of mine don’t like to drop their pet off and have to leave them all day if they work,” she said. “You can just leave us a key, and we’ll do the rest. The grooming just takes about an hour, so that’s a big plus – there are no cages.” There are no waiting rooms either. The couple takes appointments during regular office hours and arrives at the home at the scheduled time. There is a fee for traveling based on the distance in addition to the pet care. Though it’s a traveling practice, they said they tend to keep it to the Over the Mountain area. “The biggest thing is, it meets the needs of the pet better,” Hugh said of the combined mobile service. “It’s been really fun,” Patti added. “We’ve really enjoyed getting to go to their place and getting to know our clients more one-on-one. We know the people better, and the pets seem more comfortable in their home setting.” For more information about Get It Together visit www.getittogetheronline.com.❖

THURSDAY, JUNE 16, 2011 • 7

PEOPLE

OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL

center built as a previous Eagle project by a fellow scout. Bryan has earned 21 merit badges, served as senior patrol leader, earned the 50 Miler at Philmont Scout Ranch and became a member of Coosa Lodge 50 Order of the Arrow. He is a member of Boy Scout Troop 23 of Discovery United Methodist Church in Hoover. The Hoover High School

senior is the son of Greg and Tracy Anderson. He will attend the University of Alabama as an Honors College student this fall to study engineering.

Vestavia Scouts Help Humane Society Emily Patton, Debbie Van Camp and Abby Colbaugh from Troop 215 in Vestavia Hills

earned the Silver Award for donating items to the Greater Birmingham Humane Society. The girls partnered with their local library to hold a supply drive to collect items. They also made blankets for the animals to sleep on and organized a Halloween event with a pet entry fee. The Girl Scout Silver Award is the highest award a Cadette

This year we celebrate our 100th year of providing care to children and families. In 1911, in response to a great community need, a group of concerned citizens formed Holy Innocents, a hospital for children.

Recently honored by the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society were, from left: Woman of the Year Susan Doss, Boy of the Year Sean Fredella, Girl of the Year Addison Sewell and Man of the Year Brent G. Grainger.

LLS Chooses Man, Woman of the Year

The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society’s Alabama/Gulf Coast Chapter recently announced its 2011 Man and Woman of the Year Winners Brent G. Grainer of Scott Dukes & Geisler, P.C., and Susan Doss of Bradley, Arant, Boult & Cummings, LLP, received the awards at a May 12 grand finale celebration at B&A Warehouse. The candidates competed in honor of the society’s Boy of the Year, Sean Fredella, and Girl of the Year, Addison Sewell. Both local students are blood cancer survivors and sources of inspiration to others. During a 10-week fundraising period, beginning with a kickoff celebration, nine candidates were judged on their success in generating funds to advance the mission of LLS. Every dollar raised counted as one vote. The contest raised $158,000, with Doss and Grainer raising the most. Other candidates this year were Erica Underwood Burkle; Brendolyn R. High, Birmingham Mayor’s Office; Corley Ellis, Shelby County Commission; Walter B. Grant, Walter B. Grant Family Investments; Terrance

Photo special to the Journal

Moultrie, Alabama Power Co.; Daryl Sutton, Gardendale Police Department; and J. Gusty Yearout, Yearout & Traylor, P.C. The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society, with 68 chapters in the U.S. and Canada, is the world’s largest voluntary health organization dedicated to funding blood cancer research and providing education and patient services. For more information about blood cancer, visit www.LLS.org or call the Society’s Information Resource Center at 800-955-4572.

Bryan Anderson Is Eagle Scout

Bryan Anderson recently received the rank of Eagle Scout. His Eagle Court of Honor was Feb. 27 at Discovery United Methodist Church. Bryan’s Eagle Scout project was to construct a 100-foot sidewalk at Discovery United Bryan Anderson Methodist Church. The sidewalk provides access to an outdoor worship

Today, as Children’s of Alabama, we continue the mission of meeting a great community need in Birmingham, the region and throughout the state. 1600 7TH AVENUE SOUTH BIRMINGHAM, AL 35233 (205) 939-9100 ChildrensAL.org

8 • THURSDAY, JUNE 16, 2011

PEOPLE

Girl Scout can earn. This award symbolizes a Cadette’s accomplishments in Girl Scouting and community activities as she matures and works to better her life and the lives of others.

and Gorgas competition. The selection is based on a student’s academic excellence and scientific research. An abstract of each finalist’s work will be published in the journal of the Alabama Academy of Science. The finalists were honored and also competed for Gorgas tuition scholarships in Jacksonville March 3-4. Ghosh was chosen as fourth alternate with a cash award to the college of her choice and offers of full and partial tuition scholarships to 14 Alabama colleges and universities. Judith Cantwell, ASFA’s AP Chemistry teacher, has been Ghosh’s mentor for the past three years. Ghosh is the daughter of Leena and Deep Ghosh of North Shelby County. She will attend the University of MissouriKansas City School of Medicine’s six-year BA/MD program in the fall. ❖

Arina Ghosh Is Intel Finalist

Arina Ghosh, a senior at the Alabama School of Fine Arts, has once again been chosen as an Intel finalist and will be on the Alabama team competing in the International Science and Engineering Fair. She was selected in April at the 2011 Alabama Science and Engineering Fair in Huntsville, winning first place in the biochemistry category, the Boeing trophy for “Best Scientific Method” and many other special awards. Ghosh has spent three years studying the effect of heavy met-

Alabama School of Fine Arts student Arina Ghosh has been chosen as an Intel finalist.

Photo special to the Journal

als on the environmental food chain and ultimately the metals’ possible absorption into the human body and bloodstream. She was recently named one of 10 finalists in the prestigious Alabama Science Scholar Search

OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL

Cynthia McGough, along with volunteers from Vestavia High School and Vestavia Hills United Methodist Church are helping rebuild the North Birmingham home of Michelle Hunt after it was destroyed by an April 27 tornado. The Habitat for Humanity clubs built the home for the Hunt family in 2008. Journal photo by Maury Wald

Second Time Around

Vestavia Volunteers Help Rebuild Family’s Home

BY MATTHEW TERWILLIGER JOURNAL INTERN

30th Annual

I Love America

Summer Celebration Series

Presented by the Vestavia Hills Chamber of Commerce � Bring�your� ir� a h �c own�lawn t� e or�blank

and Vestavia Hills Parks and Recreation

at Wald Park

Thursday, June 30

Rain�D ate July�1 :�� at�Wa 5�� ld�Par k�

Free Swimming 6:30-7:30 PM Children’s Activities by Vestavia Hills United Methodist Church 6:30-8 PM Pops in the Park~Patriotic Music by the Shades Mountain Baptist Church Orchestra 7 PM * Family Movie s�� Busines Expo��

*Movie will begin at dusk, approximately 8 PM. Visit www.vestaviahills.org for more details.

Free�� Admissio n��

Sponsored by:

Allstate Insurance~Jacob Leake Agency * Brown Heating & Cooling * Champion Cleaners Digital Trends Corporation * First Baptist Church of Birmingham Hilton Garden Inn~Liberty Park * Kwik Kopy Printing~Vestavia * Mobility Central Roofing & Painting Contractor~Oswaldo Sialer * SourcePointe Truitt Insurance & Bonding * Vestavia Hills United Methodist Church

or the second time in three years, volunteers from Vestavia Hills have given Michelle Hunt and her family an opportunity she otherwise couldn’t afford: a house of her own. Michelle, along with many others in Birmingham’s North Smithfield neighborhood, lost her home to the April 27 tornados that tore through the area. After the disaster, Hunt called the same people who volunteered to help build her house three years ago to help rebuild it. In 2008, the Vestavia Hills High School Habitat for Humanity Club and Vestavia Hills United Methodist Church teamed up to co-sponsor the building of a home on Allen Street in North Birmingham for Michelle and her three daughters and son. The service group didn’t hesitate to return and “Rebuilding is help rebuild when they received the news. “Rebuilding is the right thing to do, and the right thing Mrs. Hunt is a wonderful person that is to do, and Mrs. well deserving of our help,” said Daniella Reimann, former president of the VHHS Hunt is a wonderHabitat for Humanity. ful person that is Daniella said Michelle is happy she and her family survived the tornados and is gratewell deserving of ful Habitat and volunteers are helping rebuild what she lost. our help.” The organizations have been rebuilding the Hunt home for almost a month now, working – Daniella Reimann Thursday through Saturday. After workers saved what they could from the damage and recycled building materials, the house was stripped down to the foundation, and the building process started again. With the help of Habitat for Humanity of Greater Birmingham, many homes affected by the tornados are being repaired and rebuilt. The group’s goal is to have all the homes on Allen Street ready to live in by the first of August so neighborhood children can return to school in the fall. “Helping the tornado victims is simply living up to the Habitat for Humanity mission statement,” said Cynthia McGough, longtime volunteer and team leader. Habitat for Humanity requires $44,000 to build a home. The VHHS Habitat for Humanity Club and Vestavia United Methodist Church both raise $22,000 every year in order for the homes to be built. This year will be especially important for Habitat for Humanity, as extra help will be needed in the wake of the tornados, Cynthia said. Volunteers build year round across Jefferson County. They take buses supplied by the church during the school year and carpool in the summer months. Since the VHHS Habitat for Humanity service club was started in the fall of 2005, students and volunteers from the church and high school have completed six homes; the most recent was finished in March. The Hunt residence is just one example of the collaboration and work that goes into restoring neighborhoods and strengthening communities after a natural disaster, according to Cynthia. She believes that by finishing what they started, the students and volunteers are doing their part to revitalize a devastated community. ❖

OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL

Dow Elected to BCA Board

William Dow was elected to serve on the board of directors for the Business Council of Alabama (BCA), according to a recent announcement by Warren, Averett, Kimbrough & Marino, LLC. Dow William Dow previously served as chairman of BCA’s Tax and Fiscal Policy Committee. BCA’s leadership is made up of businessmen and women who give their time and talents to support policies that enhance the free enterprise system in Alabama.

John Carroll Senior Ariel Smith Is Youth of the Year

Ariel Smith, a senior at John Carroll Catholic High School, has been named Youth of the Year by the Kiwanis Club of Birmingham, earning a $4,000 scholarship from the civic club. She also received a $3,100 scholarship from the Shades Valley Rotary Club. Smith was the top winner of Ariel Smith six scholarships given by the Kiwanis Club of Birmingham. Nineteen applicants were interviewed for the top six awards. The field was narrowed to eight before the top six were chosen. The Shades Valley Rotary Club Award process used a similar process to name Smith and 21 other Birmingham area students as scholarship winners. At John Carroll, Smith was a National Merit Finalist and a National Society of High School Scholars member. She also was president of the Spanish Club, vice president of Mu Alpha Theta, a member of the Student Ambassador Council, co-founder and vice president of Mission ECO and founder of the Senior Committee for Community. She was a member of the National Honor Society, Spanish Honor Society, College Ambassador Board, head editor of the Looking Glass and participated in Science Olympiad.

Dorn Receives Vestavia Art Award

Stewart Reed Dorn, a graduating senior at Vestavia Hills High School, is the 2011 recipient of the Vestavia Hills Art Association’s Art Achievement Award. He is the son of Phil and Joy Dorn of Vestavia Hills. Dorn was selected by professional artists and art educators on the Vestavia Hills Art Association’s scholarship committee. His work was viewed during Vestavia Hills High School’s student art show. The VHAA Art Achievement Award is an annual award of $200 presented on the merits of the student’s artistic talent, academic standing and how the award will be applied. This year, the award included an additional $100 gift certificate from Alabama Art Supply, Inc., and a $100 gift certificate from Forstall Art Center. The award is presented to a graduating senior who is continuing his or her education in visual arts, art education or a related field. Dorn plans to attend Auburn University, where he will major in architecture.

Mt. Brook Library Foundation Recognizes Members

The Mountain Brook Library Foundation Board recognized two outgoing members at its May 4 meeting. Maura Goodwyn has served the Emmet O’Neal Library for 13 years, first as chairman of the Friends of the Library book sale and the library board and then as a member of the Foundation board. Sally Legg was a member of the Foundation board and served as Art Committee chairman. Both received framed photographs as mementos of the library’s appreciation for their commitment.

PEOPLE

THURSDAY, JUNE 16, 2011 • 9

BSC Professor Wins Teaching Award

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Dr. Barry Spieler, professor of mathematics at BirminghamSouthern College, has received the Mathematical Association of America Southeastern Section 2011 Award for Distinguished College or University Teaching. The award was announced recently at the association’s annual meeting in Tuscaloosa. Spieler was honored for his diverse teaching interests and accomplishments, including interdisciplinary courses and cross-college collaborations. As the award winner, he will deliver a keynote address at the 2012 meeting. Spieler joined BSC in 1994. He received his bachelor’s degree from Tufts University and his master’s and doctoral degrees �� from Ohio State University. ��

Full Life Foundation Has New Director

Cindy Potter is the new executive director of the Full Life Ahead Foundation. Before joining Full Life Ahead, Potter was director of communications for the Epilepsy Association of Central Florida, public relations manager at Orlando’s ABC television network affiliate, the Miss United States Teen pageant and Cindy Potter the Clyde Beatty-Cole Brothers Circus. The Full Life Ahead Foundation serves individuals living with disabilities through weekend retreats and the development of HOPE (Helping Other People Envision) teams. ❖

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The Mountain Brook Library Foundation recently extended its thanks to outgoing board members Sally Legg, left, and Maura Goodwyn.

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10 • THURSDAY, JUNE 16, 2011

LIFE

OVER THE MOUNTAIN

JOU RNAL

a day for dad

Dad works hard year round to keep us happy, so on his special day surprise him with some great gifts from OTM merchants.

building bridges Dr. David Askenazi, an assistant professor of pediatrics with Children’s Hospital’s Division of Nephrology and Transplantation, has made it his mission to help dads cope with their children’s illnesses through Camp BRIDGES family camp.

Journal photo by Laura McAlister

Local Doctor Reaches Out to Dads at Camp for Kids with Transplants

BY LAURA MCALISTER

Often it’s difficult, he said, for dads to express themselves, and the time among JOURNAL EDITOR other fathers with the same problems has proved helpful. childhood illness can take its “Moms, in some ways, have an easier toll on the entire family. Dr. time sharing their experiences,” he said. David Askenazi knows. “Dads tend to hold things inside. It’s not He’s fortunate that his own three cool for dads to talk about stuff, so my children are healthy, but those he spends job is to provide them a space to feel time with on a daily basis as an assistant comfortable.” professor of pediatrics with Children’s Since most of the children at Camp Hospital Division of Nephrology and Want to help? BRIDGES are learning to live with their Transplantation aren’t so lucky. Tom Williams Audi will host a fundraiser transplants, David said he also helps David’s patients come from all over the for Camp BRIDGES June 23 from 5:30 fathers understand their role in this. state, range in age from a few days old to “That’s really one of the biggest chalto 7:30 p.m. The event includes refreshteenagers and are on dialysis. Many have lenges,” he said. “I work with the dads ments, entertainment and a silent aucreceived organ transplants, which is how on how they can provide a safety net. We David got involved with Camp BRIDGES. tion. All funds raised will go to Camp want these children to get independent on The camp aims to help children who BRIDGES. For more information on the their medical care, but we also want them have had or need an organ transplant and fundraiser or the camp, visit to know that if they miss a day of taking their families. www.campbridges.org. their meds, they could lose their kidney.” David got involved with BRIDGES, In addition to talking about challenges, which stands for Building Responsibility David also takes the dads on some “dadly” outings, like fishing or and Independence, Developing Goals and Establishing Success, in bowling. 2005. Since then he’s served as vice president and president of the One of the best parts about the camp to family members, though, board as well as development chairman. is knowing they’re not alone. David said it’s not uncommon for But one of his favorite roles with the camp is one a little less parents, even his dads, to cry during the counseling sessions. official. It’s that of helping out fellow fathers. “I get a bad reputation of making dads cry,” he said. “But it’s “I’m in charge of the dads’ day at the camp,” he said. “Dads and kind of my job.” moms face different challenges when it comes to dealing with a Jeremy Hicks, 2, attended the camp last year with his parents child with medical needs. My goal is to give dads a place to share and will be there again this summer. While Jeremy liked swimming what’s been going on with them since the diagnosis and the chaland sleeping the best, his mom Tessa Hicks said it was the interaclenges.” tion with other parents whose children had similar illnesses that Camp BRIDGES hosts two camps at Lake Martin’s Children’s Harbor each year: one for teens with transplants and another for the really helped her and Jeremy’s dad. “We really thought it was nice to meet other parents like us,” she children with transplants and their families. Both programs are free said. “There also were kids there who have had their transplants a to participants thanks to donations and fundraisers. lot longer than Jeremy, so it really gave us hope.” This year’s family camp is set for the July 4th weekend. About For David, Camp BRIDGES has also helped him. He and his 180 participants are expected. family attend each year, and as his children get older they volunteer Activities at the family camp include boating, family meals, more and more during the camp. He said it’s both humbling and social events and counseling. The counseling is where David’s rewarding, especially knowing that the trip might be the only family dads’ day program comes in. vacation for many of the participants. ❖

This book is sure to inspire him as a business man and as a dad. Written by Birmingham’s Richard Simmons, it defines how perceptions of success, achievement and recognition fail men in difficult times. “Measure of a Man,” by Richard Simmons, 789-3471, jimbo@truemeasureofaman.com

If you’re dad’s a wine lover, then he’ll love this corkscrew. Make opening that perfect bottle of wine easy and flawless with the Electric Rabbit Rechargeable Corkscrew with electronic display, $50. The Cook Store, 871-5277

OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL

FATHER’S DAY

THURSDAY, JUNE 16, 2011 • 11

What dad wouldn’t love the Audi A8? It’s a new benchmark in the luxury vehicle category. The A8 flagship is all-new and completely redesigned, representing the best in engineering, technology, design and performance. The all new A8 has moved luxury forward, solidifying the Audi commitment to excellence and refusal to settle for anything less. Tom Williams Audi, 397-2700

Dad will look great in these Mobley & Sons custom Alabama state flag ties, available in seven different colors; they retail for $75. Mobley & Sons, 870-7929

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Help dad ride in style this summer with $100 off a new convertible top. Alabama Auto Tops, 251-0684

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12 • THURSDAY, JUNE 16, 2011

FATHER’S DAY

OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL

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Dad needs to be comfortable on the course and off. These Ecco Golf/Street Shoes are a hybrid golf shoe designed to be worn off the green as well as on. They’re a stylish, fashionable comfort shoe in black, white and brown. Carl’s Comfort Shoes, 980-4800

This year get dad the STHIL HomeScraper Series FS 55 R Trimmer. The FS 55 R is a versatile, straight-shaft trimmer for homeowner’s or light-duty professionals, that can be used with several cutting attachments, $199.95. Bob’s Power Equipment, 979-3488

Every dad needs a place to rest his clubs and coats, and with this valet, he can do it in style. This is great for hanging coats, suits and jackets in the office or the home. Practice your putting and display your favorite putters, too. Brass Bed/Mantooth Interiors, 8795474

Dad will thank you if you give him this round tan leather-covered 10-oz. flask with two shot cups, $45. Rosenberger’s, 870-8282

If whiskey and scotch is dad’s thing, then he’ll want this. The On the Rocks Set includes six whiskey stones with a tray and two whiskey glasses. The sea stones can be stored in the freezer and will keep drinks cold without becoming watered down, $44. A’Mano, 871-9093 Garden fountains are an ideal addition to your home garden and landscaping. It’s a soothing gift for the stressedout dad. Andy’s Garden Center has a large selection of styles, sizes and prices, starting with a tabletop fountain, $249.99 and up. Andy’s Garden Center Vestavia, 824-0233; Hoover, Hwy. 150, 402-2639

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Help dad pass his time on and off the course with a men’s Citizens Golf Watch. It comes in either a black or white dial, $295 with 20 percent for Father’s Day. Shay’s, 9785880

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�� Let dad kick back and relax �� on his big day in these L.B. �� Evans house slippers $70. �� Black leather sizes 8-13. �� Remon’s Clothier, 977-5512

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LIFE

OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL

THURSDAY, JUNE 16, 2011 • 13

Simple life in abundance

C O N ST RU C T NEW HOME

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14 • THURSDAY, JUNE 16, 2011

SOCIAL

OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL

‘MAD’ ABOUT A CURE

Above: Co-chairs of the 2011 Pink Palace Casino Night were from left: Rosalind Griffin, Carole Pizitz, Janet Lynn Fritz, Dr. Jack Schaeffer, Gay Roberts, Carol Pinkerton and Joy Jennings. Right: Jessica Williams dressed as the caterpillar from “Alison in Wonderland” visits with Kathy G’s Kathy Mezrano at the event. Photos special to the Journal

Wonderland-Themed Event Raises Funds for BCRFA

Above: Dressed as characters from “Alice in Wonderland” at the event were from left: Cody Belcher, Zac Snow, Shaela Wise, Darlene Black, Lesley Namie and Jessica Williams. Below: Those attending included, from left: Bill and Dianne Mooney and Dr. Andres Forero.

he Pink Palace Casino Night raised $3 million to UAB’s nationally recognized breast more than $270,000 for the Breast cancer research. Cancer Research Foundation of The fun continued as the BCRFA hosted the Alabama. The fourth annual event was held 16th annual Drive Out Breast Cancer LPGA Golf May 14 at the Riverchase Galleria’s North Tournament May 16 at Old Overton Club. Tower. Twenty-five amateur teams were paired with More than 450 guests turned out for the LPGA pros in a scramble format. Co-chairmen for Wonderland-themed evening. the tournament were Cindy Owen, Carol Myers Vegas-style casino action featured professional and Jill Carter. dealers provided by Alliance Game Rentals. The 10th annual pre-tournament “CarWalt The fundraising co-chairmen and Classic Classic” raised more than $12,000 to benefit breast Events came up with décor that cancer research. included the famous Rabbit Hole and Dolly O’Neal, Kate Kiefer, Dale more photos at whimsical mushroom fields from McIntyre and Carol Sue Nelson with “Alice in Wonderland.” The Mad pro Amelia Lewis finished first, each Hatter Room featured a larger-thanwinning a set of new CG 16 Satin life “tea table” and enormous topsyCleveland Irons. turvy cakes by Barb’s Cakes. Taking second place were Cindy Kathy G. & Company prepared a WonderlandOwen, Brent and Jill Carter and Kay Argo themed menu in the Docupak Room, where guests with pro Colleen Walker, who played in loving memory of Kathy Kemp. Each took home a enjoyed a polenta Parmigiana station with sautéed Calloway Jaws Wedge. wild mushrooms, pecan-crusted chicken bites, soy In third place were Adam Thrower, David ginger marinated flank steak, shrimp cakes, spinach and Parmesan stuffed mushrooms along with Sexton, Kris Nikolich and Rodney King with cake pops iced in pink. pro Clarissa Childs. They each won a FootJoy Guests danced in the Cheshire Cat Tameron StaSof Glove and weekend bag by Haul Couture. Honda Room to the sounds of Mark Phillips and Fourth place winners were Brandon Groove Daddy. In the Mad Hatter Room, sponHassenfuss, Reg Mitchell, Rick Karle and Mike sored by Schaeffer Eye Center, guests showed off Dubberly with pro Sherri Turner. Each won their “mad designer” skills by embellishing their a complimentary round of golf at Birmingham own hats to wear during the event. Southern Striplin Center’s Golf Simulator to play Co-chairmen for the event were Rosalind Pebble Beach or St. Andrews. Griffin, Joy Jennings, Janet Fritz, Carol Tournament sponsors provided golfers with Pinkerton, Gay Roberts, Carole and Michael meals, gifts and prizes. Pizitz and Dr. Jack Schaeffer. For information about 2011 fundraising events Proceeds benefited the Breast Cancer Research or to get involved, call 996-5463 or visit www. Foundation of Alabama, which has donated nearly bcrfa.org. ❖

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SOCIAL

THURSDAY, JUNE 16, 2011 • 15

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�� Above: At the 51st Ball of Roses were from left: Rusty and Liz Rich and Shannon and Ted Holt. Below left: Also attending were Jeffery and Mary Margaret Hendry; and below right: Bryon and Caroline Woods. Photos special to the Journal

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Ball of Roses Celebrates 51 Years

he Ballet Guild of Birmingham sponsored the 51st annual Ball of Roses June 4. The evening began with cocktails and dinner in the Country Club of Birmingham’s upper lounge. The main event started at 9 p.m. with the presentation of 37 young women in the East Room. Carole Sullivan of Lagniappe Designs and Ballet Guild members created an organic theme with grapevine-wrapped columns and bouquets in more photos at bright colors. A large square wreath covered in grapevine and hundreds of hydrangeas, roses and peonies hung in the middle of the East Room. Before and after the presentation, the East Room walls were “painted” magenta by creative up-lighting. A tent was draped in garlands; on the patio were giant grapevine balls covered with lights. The Men’s Committee dinner continued the same organic theme, featuring round and square tables covered in burlap overlays. Silver chargers and hundreds of mercury glass votives decorated the tables with brightly-colored centerpieces with willow branches. Candles with chocolate ribbons hung in doorways and windows. The Ball of Roses continues to serve as an important fundraiser for the Alabama Ballet. Elizabeth Sandner Rich, chairman of the event, is a second generation ball chairman. Her

OTMJ.COM

mother, Barbara Scott Sandner, held the position in 1985. Presentee Katherine Candler Shannon, daughter of Mrs. Winn Cole Shannon (the 1988-89 president) and granddaughter of the first president, Mrs. William Maddox Cole (the 1960-62 president and 1961 ball chairman), wore her mother’s presentee dress. Those who attended included Mr. and Mrs. James Russell Rich, ball chairman; Miss Katherine Barrow Kettig, co-chairman, and escort Mr. Bill Rowe; Mr. and Mrs. Edward Morris Holt, guild president; Mr. and Mrs. William Byron Woods, executive vice president; and Mr. and Mrs. Timothy C. Hennessy Jr., Men’s Committee chairman. Also at the ball were Mr. and Mrs. Joseph Edward Sandner III; Mr. and Mrs. John Morgan Kettig; Mr. and Mrs. Heyward Carithers Hosch III; Mr. and Mrs. Andrew Wright; Mr. and Mrs. William Featheringill; Mr. and Mrs. Samuel E. Upchurch; Mr. and Mrs. Mell Smith; Mr. and Mrs. T. Robert Bentley; Mr. and Mrs. James M. Burt II; Mr. and Mrs. David Douglas Corey; Mr. and Mrs. Jeffery Parker Hendry; Mr. and Mrs. Frank Hardy Phillips; Mr. and Mrs. Harold E. Bissell; Mr. and Mrs. Christopher Hartwell Davis; Dr. and Mrs. Wilkes Banks Petrey; Mr. and Mrs. Samuel Read Walton; Mr. and Mrs. John Lacey; Mr. and Mrs. Loyd Roberson; and Mr. and Mrs. David Silverstein. ❖

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16 • THURSDAY, JUNE 16, 2011

SOCIAL

Charades Dance Club held its spring ...

luncheon recently at the home of Katie Dunn. President Verna Lyons welcomed members, thanked the current officers for a job well done and introduced the officers, to be led by Becky Rollins, for the coming year. Lunch was catered by Kim Martin, who served chicken, artichoke and wild rice casserole, baby blue salad and rolls followed by caramel brownies, raspberry tarts and pecan bars. The centerpiece on the dining room table was a collection of vibrant blue vases containing gerbera daisies, peonies and an assortment of spring flowers. Among the more than 50 members attending were Rae Trimmier, Ellen Cunningham, Martha Cobb, Judy Bewley, Jeannie Bradford, Barbara Chapman, Mary Cobb, Barclay

OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL

New Guild of the Birmingham Music Club members are from left: Sandra Holley, Heather Till, Deborah O’Connor, Dawn Higginbotham, Elise Warren and Lynne McCallum. Photo special to the Journal Darden, Dale Holditch, Karen Sanders, Carey Hinds, Laurie Haworth, Sara Ruiz de Molina, Grace Finkel, Barbara Cobb, Diane Weatherford and Mary Putman.

The Guild of the Birmingham Music ...

Hostess Katie Dunn, left, with Rita Spencer, welcomed Charades members to her home for a spring luncheon. Photo special to the Journal

Club welcomed new members and installed new officers at its spring membership coffee May 13 at the Cherokee Bend home of Rosemarie Ippolito. Membership chairman Julia Russell introduced 15 new members: Mary Bernhard, Joy Clark, Susan Dasher, Pauline Fugazzotto, Pam Hess, Jean Hurley, Heather Till, Kelly Todd, Elise Warren, Cindy Yeilding, Lynne McCallum, Miriam Morris, Phyllis Russell,

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Amy Scofield and Cindy Speake. Lynda Whitney installed officers for 2011-12: Kay Clark, president; Marsha Drennen and Mary-Noel Sellers, first vice presidents, project; Ann Johnson, second vice president, placement; Fran Gatch, third vice president, programs; Mimi Arrington, fourth vice president, locations; Pat Grant, fifth vice president, membership; Deborah O’Connor, sixth vice president, scholarships; Kathie Ramsey, recording secretary; Sandra Holley, corresponding secretary; Tina White, treasurer; Suzanne McCain, historian; and immediate past president Mary-Noel Sellers, parliamentarian. Carolyn Reich will serve as investment trustee for a 2011-14 term. Appointed to lead standing committees are Judy Anderson, hospitality; Judy Long and Sally Bergquist, newsletter; Kim Lepley, yearbook; MaryNoel Sellers and Elaine Clark, bylaws; Janis Zeanah, publicity consultant; Emily Omura, telephone; and Martha Black, addressing/mailing. Lochrane Coleman Smith will chair the 2012 spring luncheon with Debbie Dresher as co-chairman. Retiring president Mary-Noel Sellers presided at the business meeting and turned the gavel over to incoming president Kay Clark. Members and guests mingled in the Ippolito home’s reception rooms and enjoyed refreshments served on the dining table, which was centered with a bouquet of colorful spring flowers. Ira Day and Sylvia Patrick created the flower arrangements. Among those at the wellattended annual event were Jeanne Bradford, Clare Goodhew, Virginia McDorman, Eleanor Cheatham, Charlann Anderson, Anne Lamkin, Judy Wiggins, Corinne Greer, Tallulah Hargrove, Tina White, Grace Cooper, Joanna

SOCIAL

OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL

Etheredge, Katy Terry, Phyllis Pelham, Nell Larson, Rebecca Mason and Ron Bourdages, recently appointed executive director of the Birmingham Music Club.

The Gaieties Dance Club enjoyed ...

a night in Shangri-La at the Mountain Brook Club with the classics playing during the cocktail hour in the living room and on the terrace. White-gloved waiters passed an array of canapes to members in the exotic decor created by Robert Logan of Backstage Florists. Sprays of green, yellow and white orchids, bamboo and mandarin umbrellas on brilliant cloths were surrounded by lighted palm trees and brass camels. Dance chairman Mary Steiner and president Kathleen Bruhn entered into the white-

tented ballroom draped from wall to wall with brilliant silk swags ending in metallic tassels. The black-clothed dining tables were centered with three tiered mandarin umbrellas, birdof-paradise and bamboo. Officers and guests oohing and eyeing the beautiful decor were Brownie and Barry Evans, Shelly and Jerry Clark, Ann and Jim Lambert, Anne and Wendell Martin, Sandra and Terry Oden, Marjorie Forney, Edith and Fred Medley, Doris White and Joe McCracken and Cheryl and Shorty Williams. After a dinner of chicken mandarin, mixed baby green lettuces and creme brulee with fresh berries, members hit the dance floor, dancing to the classics. Spotted were June and John Eagan, Beverly and John Goff, Lucy and Dan Allison, Ann and John Baker, Becky

Above: Attending the Gaities Spring Dance were from left: Tom and Virginia Tucker, Crawford and Bette Owen and Bruce and Hallie Rawls, new members. Below: At the Club’s recent spring coffee were from left: Valerie Pankey, Mary Elmore and hostess Carolyn Featheringill.

Photos special to the Journal

THURSDAY, JUNE 16, 2011 • 17

and David Bates, Nita and Coy Collinsworth, Nita Cox, Jill and Kip Dangler, Peggy and Ren Fortier, Louise and Sharp Gillespy, June Henderson and Malta Narramore, Joan and Cary Hollinsworth, Bettie and Ken Hurd, Patricia Johnson and Glenn Slye, Nancy and Robert Jones, Linda and Bob David, Marcia and Ken Little, Cindy and Andy Strickland, Natasha and Richard Randolph, Susie and Eddie Kissel, Wiley and Minnie Lee Livingston, Say and Bill Longshore, Jackie and Bruce MacClary, Joy Magruder and Hop Chichester, Ann Massey, Janie and Ed Meadows, Betsy and Harry Miller, Peggy Morgan and Ed Thomas, Betty and Charlie Northern, Valerie and Tom Pankey, Pat and Kenneth Robinson, Ann and Harris Saunders, Gayle and Charlie Sharp, Win and �� Dick Shepherd, Elaine Smith �� and Ivy Jackson, Karin and �� Jack Stewart, Katy and Charlie Terry, Jeanie and Lee Walthall, Mary Elizabeth and �� Jimmy Waitzman, Margaret �� and Bill Whitaker and Janie �� and Jimbo Henderson. New members introduced �� were Bette and Crawford Owen, Hallie and Bruce Rawls, Virginia and Tom Tucker, and Suzanne and Mike Wald. �� Other new members are Joyce �� and Jim Lott and Lee and �� Mark Rives. ❖ ��

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Steeple Arts Academy of Dance celebrated its 75th anniversary ...

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as “The Dance Center of Mountain Brook” by presenting students in a gala performance, “Wish Upon a Star,” May 8 at Samford University’s Wright Center. The production was designed by Steeple Arts director Deanny Coates Hardy to showcase the dancers in a 60-minute performance. Deanny also created the choreography with instructors Annette Troxell Collins, Bee Lewis and Rebecca Morris. Annette and Bee were assistants to the director along with Kathy Nolan and Monica Wesson. Assistant instructors are Lucy Spann, Eleanor Hodges, Sarah Katherine Nichols, Tricia Brice and Hannah Barnett. Graduates recognized for their last Steeple Arts concert were Emily Schreiber, Allison Silzle and Adelaide Matte. Longtime student Adelaide Matte was featured in a solo number. The Steeple Arts 2010-2011 season marks the academyʼs 50th year at 36 Church Street in Crestline Village.

The Creative Cocktail Supper and Auction ... benefiting Creative Montessori School was hosted by Jay

Above: Morgan Walston, center, with parents John and Pam, was among former Creative Montessori School students who entertained guests at the Creative Cocktail Supper and Auction. Charles Renneker, another former CMS student, accompanied Morgan’s performance. Right: Also there were school founder Barbara Spitzer, left, and director Roz Butts.

Photos special to the Journal

SOCIAL

OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL

Helping Steeple Arts celebrate its 75th anniversary were, from left, front: Gracie Evans, Mary Jane Bussian, Ella Cook and Lucy Evans. Middle row: Sally Bussian, Breese Tierney, Clark Stewart and Addison Tierney. Back: Adelaide Matte, Parker Evans, Emily Schreiber, Salley Rose Wilkerson and Allison Silzle. Photo courtesy of Image Arts Pigord, CMS board president, and his wife Courtney at ArchitectureWorks April 16. The event featured the culinary creations of CMS parents/ chefs Jerry Hartley of J. Clyde, Laney DeJonge of Rojo and Carole Griffin of Continental Bakery and from CMS teacher Joy Smith and Fleming’s Prime Steakhouse. Providing entertainment were former CMS students now studying at the Alabama School of Fine Arts, including Lauren Williams, Katie Thompson,

Morgan Walston, Charles Renneker, Jessica Orcutt , Elliott Emfinger, Zane Lake, Desmond Sykes, Liza Butts, Walker Yancey and Lilly Shurbet. A silent auction included more than 230 items, and a live auction featured class art projects. Among the 130 guests were John and Lynn Adams, Richard Shoemaker and Renee Blalock, Jeff and Allison Stone, David and Amanda Schedler, Katie and Billy Robinson, Joel and Melissa Williams, Rosalind Butts (CMS director), Barbara Spitzer (CMS founder), Camille Caldwell, Mary Zekic, Jody DuBois, Michael and Michelle Paradiso, Fred and Kristi Renneker, Susie and Charles Youngson, Paul and Shannon Ross; Greg and Joy Smith, Charles Robinson, Kevin and Beth Storr, David and Nicole Martin, Brooke and Daniel Coleman, Paul and Ginny Freeman, Scott and Kelly Walton, Cat Smith, Peter and Cathy Nagi, Hamidah and Avez Premjee, Robert and Gail Pless, Roberto Rodriguez, Jorge Pino, Ro and Teresa Cole, Jesse and Angelica Clark, Jason and Alison Heaton, Bill and Mimi Tynes, James and Beth Scott, Josh and Naomi Ivker; Robert and Merideth Stackpole, John and Sonya Shacka, Leigh May, Morgan Holladay, Leann Kinnunen and Stevan Maglic, Andrea and Phillip Hadley, Ashley Alford, Brian and Kate Whitley, Art Husband, Lisa Fishman, Thomas and Marci Parham, John and Pam Walston, Scott and Sandy Thompson, Bronwyn Chapman, Roberta Willard, Tish Gursky and Mark Tillis, Ken McElroy and Nancy Fort, Allison Dogan, Laurel and Mike Phebus, Melody Lake, Lula Skowronek, Zanaida Griffin and Tracy Wooten. ❖

The United Methodist Women of ...

Highlands United Methodist Church hosted a vintage children’s fashion show and mother-daughter luncheon May 3 at the church. The event was a fundraiser for the Women of Highlands. A special gift also was collected for the Alabama Tornado Disaster Relief Initiative. UMW president Pattie Perry Finney welcomed guests. Many UMW members and guests attended the event, including Betty Ratliff, Jill Dangler, Sharon Hydinger, Peggy Balliet,

THURSDAY, JUNE 16, 2011 • 19

SOCIAL

OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL

Margaret Hubbard, Liz Woods, Eileen Kennedy, Carmen Habeeb, Linda David, Cornelia Malone, Mary Hateley Hare, Rhett Thagard, Kitty Avant, Charlotte Murdock, Shannon Poole, Stephanie Smith with baby daughter Sophia Faye, Mary Frances Cofield, Mary Carol Smith and Lois Poe. Betty Likis, president of the Central District United Methodist Women and a Vestavia Hills UMW member, also attended. Emily Freeman Penfield, associate pastor, offered the blessing before the program. The sold-out Vintage Children’s

Style Show and luncheon was held in the HUMC Fellowship Hall. On display were many fashions handmade and designed over the years by the HUMC members Gayle Byrne, Faye Clark, Linda Gaffney, Edna Rush, Carolyn Satterfield and Sandra Stamm. After the show, guest speaker Dolores Hydock entertained guests. Luncheon servers for the event

included fathers, grandfathers and husbands of HUMW and HUMC members. They included Jim Delk, Jimmy Finney III, John Gaffney, Dinks Gaskin, Mark Myatt, Walter Rush, Bill Satterfield, Jim Shannon, Vastine Stabler, Ira Turner and Bill Tyndal. Lunch was coordinated by Valerie Nash and P. J. Ellis, owner of Good to Go Catering. Floral centerpieces were

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designed by Annie Green, Suzanne Clisby, Carolyn Delk and Lois Poe. Ticket sales were handled by Bitsy Youngblood, Millie Lee, Janet Holt and Kathy Myatt. Decorations for the event were provided by Betty Morton and Tutter Tyndale. Welcoming guests as they arrived were Martha Eight way hand-tied George and Kathy Myatt. construction with and Music was provided by pianist pull top grain leather Jack T. Smith Jr. and soloist $988 Rachel Satterwhite. Alicia Zeski, artist and HUMC member, designed a new seal for HUMC, which was printed on the event program by program chairman Millie Davis. Ticket chairmen 2813 18th St. South Homewood, AL (205) 879-5474 were Lois Youngblood, Mildred Anne Lee, Janet Holt and Kathy Myatt. The Rev. Mikah Hudson, the church’s senior pastor, closed the event with a benediction. Members of the Highlands UMW Event Committee for 2011 are: Pattie Perry Finney, presi�� dent; Millie Davis, vice president; �� Ann Askew, secretary; Lois � �� Youngblood, treasurer; Mary �� Frances Cofield, Circle 1 chairman; Carolyn Satterfield, Circle �� 2 chairman; Peggy Carey, Circle �� 3 chairman; Lee Brewer, Circle 4 co-chairman; Becky Bradley, set�� up; Angela Chramer, photography; and Diana Spencer, publicity.

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The Antiquarian ��

Society’s spring luncheon and ... ��

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officer installation was held May 11 at the home of Jeanna and Samford University President Andrew Westmoreland. Dr. Jeanna Westmoreland, an honorary Antiquarian, pre-

SOCIAL

OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL

Newly-installed Antiquarian officers are, from left: Louise Pinkerton, Annie Green, Rebecca Mason and president Judith Hand.

Photo special to the Journal

sented a program on Samford’s history before the installation of new officers and a tour of the president’s home. Officers installed for 201112 are Judith Hand, president; Rebecca Mason, first vice president; Rebekah Taylor, second vice president; Sahra Coxe, corresponding secretary; Annie Green, recording secretary; Joan Hull, treasurer; Louise Pinkerton, historian; and Jane Ellis, past president. Parliamentarian Anne Gibbons led the ceremony, which highlighted the new officers’ special interests. The incoming president presented the retiring president with a gift in appreciation of her outstanding service. Mrs. Ellis presented gifts to board members who served with her. Membership chairman Winyss Shepard recognized new and longstanding members of the Birmingham Antiquarian Society.

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Recently-elected members welcomed at the luncheon were Susan Dasher and Leila Welch. Recognized for 20-24 years of membership were past presidents Judy Haise and Anne Hollans, Trish Hunter and Margie Denton along with associate members Nancy High, Jan Elliott, Betty Davidson, Jane Easterwood and the late Janie O’Kelly. Recognized for 25-29 years of active membership were Doris Wayman, Mary Carol Smith, Helen Mills and Martha Bartlett, all past presidents. In the 30-34 year membership category are active member Claire Tucker and associate member Nelldeane Price. Active member Pat Scofield and associate member Jean Manning have been Antiquarians since 1972; both are past presidents. Nelda Osment, also a past president, was saluted as the only active member for more than 40 years. Associate member Mary Townsend was recognized for even longer membership. Greeting members and guests with hostess Jeanna Westmoreland were Elouise Williams, Louise Pinkerton, Lena Knight, Pauline Fugazzotto, Annie Green, Judy Haise, Anne Hollans, Anna Keith, Margie Preston, Carolyn Reich, Rebekah Taylor, Rusty Kirkpatrick, Jane Ellis and Judith Hand. Flowers for the occasion were arranged by Bernice Hill, Louise Pinkerton, Thelma Stichweh and the hostess. Luncheon tables were centered with Eiffel Tower vases holding nosegays of pastel roses, yellow daisies and ferns. Meridith Peeples gave the invocation. At the luncheon were Kirke Cater, Rosemary Jager, Tobie Hand, Rose Lofton, Bitty Mason, Martha Lee Culp, Betsy Faucette, Kay Grayson, Dawn Higginbotham, Mary Ann Jones, Nancy Jones, Virginia McDorman, Margaret Northrup, Gail Pugh and Lucianne Pugh. Others attending were Peggy

OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL

Ragland, Natasha Randolph, Lynda Robertson, Aubrey Ross, Phyllis Russell, Carolyn Satterfield, Lee Scott, Catherine Shepherd, Terry Kay Simmons, Jane Paris Smith, Nan Teninbaum, Carole Thomas, Joy Thomas, Frances Wheelock, Margie Williams, Barbara Baird and Janis Zeanah. Guests included Margaret Howell, Grace Key, Jeannene Bell and Dr. Chandler Smith.

Guests gathered at the Virginia Samford ...

Theatre May 19 for a double purpose – to enjoy an evening of entertainment and to raise funds to assist worthy UAB nursing students. The occasion was “Applause for the Cause: Educate a Nurse,” hosted by the 46-member Board of Visitors. The board supports the UAB School of Nursing, headed by Dean Doreen C. Harper. The highlight of the evening was a theatrical performance produced and directed by Virginia Samford

president Cathy Rye Gilmore. The board dedicated the evening in memory of Jarman Fearing Lowder, a UAB nursing graduate and Board of Visitors member who died earlier this year. The $80,000 raised by the event will assist UAB nursing students through nursing scholarships and the school’s Emergency Fund for Student Success, to help students experiencing financial crisis. Before the entertainment, guests were treated to a reception and silent auction in the terrace area adjoining the theatre. Michael T. Glenn, executive chef of Creative Catering by Ambrosia, provided hors d’oeuvres and desserts. Silent auction items included dining experiences, jewelry, artwork, beach getaways and tickets to theatrical and sporting events. A focal point of the decorations at the reception was a theatrical hatand-cane ice sculpture created by Ice by Design’s Nick Hartmann, whose wife Judy is a UAB nursing graduate. When curtain time arrived, a

Among UAB School of Nursing supporters who attended “Applause for the Cause” were, from left: Minnie Rast, Donna Jernigan, Martha DeBuys and Ann Hayes. Photo special to the Journal

THURSDAY, JUNE 16, 2011 • 21

SOCIAL packed house watched a variety of performances, with reigning Miss Alabama Ashley Davis as emcee. The opening performance was the song “Applause, Applause,” sung by Virginia Samford performers Kristi Tingle Higginbotham, Jan Hunter, Stephen Fister and Lucas Pepke. Also performing were tap dancer Alex Swader; Scarlett Walker, ballerina and 2010 Alabama’s Outstanding Teen; singer-musician George Wallace Jr.; “Blues Brothers” performers Bill Harper and Sam Haney; Amanda Tapley, singer and former Miss Alabama; male choir a cappella ensemble A Bunch of Guys from Mountain Brook High School; jazz dancer Shellie Street; humorist Ed Conyers; and 17-year-old twin brothers Scott and Paul Styslinger, who performed separate piano pieces. Presenting a nursing-themed monologue was Patty McDonald, a longtime patron of Birminghamarea arts organizations and community and civic causes who served as the event’s honorary chairman. Special tribute was paid by Dean Harper to Catherine and Lee Styslinger Jr. The dean presented a resolution acknowledging the Styslingers’ recent creation of a UAB nursing scholarship. She also thanked members of the Styslinger family for their support of a signature sponsorship of the fundraising event through the Altec Styslinger Foundation. Serving on the event’s planning committee were Board of Visitors chairman Sue Ellen Lucas, co-chairman Bobby Luckie and fellow board members Kimberlee Benos, Carolyn Boone, Joy Deupree, Barbara Eddleman, Melinda Helveston, Donna Jernigan, Barrett MacKay and Elizabeth Wallace. Sponsorship committee members were Jane Arendall, Catherine Styslinger and Jean Tomlinson.

Among guests at the fundraiser were Errol Allan, Gene and Pinkie Ashley, C.P. and Candice Bagby, Keith Arendall, John Beard, John Bowdre, Harry and Jane Brock, Frank and Lella Bromberg, Frederick and Nancy Bromberg, Marcus and Zoë Cassimus, Lee Styslinger Jr., Peggy Conyers, Jim Boone, Alan and Patricia Dreher, Jim and Kathy Emison and Skip Deupree.

Also there were Griffith and Craig Harsh, Everett Holle, Bill Eddleman, Fay Ireland, Judy Ireland, Robert and Joie Jones, Mike Lucas, Wayne and Sandy Killion, Thomas Lowder, Janet Lucas, Rick MacKay, Charles McCallum, Helen Mills, Minnie Rast, Jim and Donna Reddinger, William and LaVona Rushton, Richard and Winyss Shepard, William and D’Ann Somerall and Kelly and Lee Styslinger III. ❖

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SCHOOLS

OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL

The OLV Science Olympiad team finished 23rd in the country at the national competition at the University of Wisconsin.

guests include actor and humanitarian Edward James Olmos and Michael Putney, a veteran reporter with Miami’s ABC affiliate. DiChiara utilized the book “Night” by Ellie Wiesel during her class this year as a supplement to students’ reading and as inspiring material to help them write their essays.

Photo special to the Journal

OLV Excels at Science Olympiad

The Our Lady of the Valley Science Olympiad team finished 23rd in the country at the National Science Olympiad competition held at the University of Wisconsin last month. OLV was the top school from Alabama and the highest ranked Catholic school in the nation in the competition. Our Lady of the Valley has qualified and competed for the national competition five times. This year’s finish is the team’s best in the five appearances. Our Lady of the Valley students had a strong overall performance, finishing 17 of 25 events in the top 30 in the nation. Sixty teams qualified for national competition. OLV finished in the top 10 in the nation in two events, Microbe Mission and Battery Buggy. Eighth graders Marty McGuire and John Ruppert earned OLV’s first-ever bronze medal, a national third place finish in Microbe Mission, while classmates Jake Herndon and Matt Byers earned an overall ninth place in Battery Buggy. The school’s national team members included David Bratcher, Matt Byers, Jack Christensen, Mick Hagelskamp, Maggie Hagelskamp, Abby Hagelskamp, Jake Herndon, A.J. Keelin, Daniel Matos, Jack McGuire, Marty McGuire, Joey Portante, John Ruppert, Noah Smith and Christina Till and alternates Kevin Ambrose, Jason Brown, Juan Jose Campos, Ashley Musachia, Joseph Naro and Anna Portante. More than 6,200 teams from across the country competed in regional and then state competitions to advance to the national competition. OLV’s achievement places it in the top 1 percent of teams in the U.S. This year, the OLV team swept first, second and third places at the regional competition at the University of Alabama and then advanced to the state finals, where it took second place and became one

of two schools from Alabama to qualify for national competition. The team was led by coach Ann Stevens, OLV science teacher, and Kathleen Keelin as well as coaches, mentors and chaperones Tom Chauffe, John Ciza, Susan Ruppert, Gina Hagelskamp, Lorrie Steele, Lorraine Cerfolio, Jake Herndon, Judy Brown, Anamarie Bratcher, Cindy Naro, Jackie Campos, Michelle Terry, Kathy Smith, Linda Ambrose, Michele Brewster, Bruce Fogel, Brendan McGuire, Corrine Byers, Terry Herndon and Lisa Duvall. OLV alumni also played a significant role this year. Meghan Till served as student coach for the team, and ninth graders Josh Gancayco, Sarah Webster, Breanna Brickner, Sean Galvin, A.J. Matta and Marcus Woodward also contributed.

Indian Springs School seniors Larry and Jeff Liu were named Lincoln-Douglas Debate co-champions of the National High School Tournament of Champions Photos special to the Journal

ISS Seniors, Twins Are Debate Champs

Jeff and Larry Liu of Birmingham, Indian Springs School seniors and twin brothers, were named Lincoln-Douglas Debate co-champions of the National High School Tournament of Champions. The event, the nation’s top high school debate tournament, was held recently at the University of Kentucky. The Lius are the first debaters to share the championship since 1988 and the only twins to share the honor.

Named for the famous 1858 debates between Abraham Lincoln and Stephen Douglas, Lincoln-Douglas is a type of oneon-one debate that emphasizes logic, ethical values and philosophy.

John Carroll Teacher Wins National Award

Mary DiChiara, an English teacher at John Carroll Catholic High School, thought she was just entering her 22 freshman Honors English students into a national essay contest to help them learn more about the Holocaust. Several weeks later, DiChiara learned she was one of Mary DiChiara only five teachers to receive a national award for her curricular work in teaching about the Holocaust. DiChiara was invited to south Florida for the Holocaust Remembrance Project’s 2011 week-long trip June 27-July 1. She will be joined by the four other national award-winning teachers and 10 high school students who win the essay contest. Hundreds of students participate in the contest. The top 10 essay finalists receive scholarships ranging from $5,000 to $2,500. All expenses, a value of more than $2,000 each, are paid for the five teachers and top 10 student winners. DiChiara also will receive $1,000 of teaching materials to bring back to John Carroll Catholic. The trip includes a visit to the Miami Beach Holocaust Memorial and the Holocaust Museum of Southwest Florida. Holocaust survivors will attend various events, and several lectures are scheduled. A luncheon will recognize the top teachers and students who received awards. Special

Anna Elizabeth Byrne cooled off in the drenching mist at the Emmet O’Neal Library Summer Reading Kickoff Carnival.

Photo special to the Journal

Library Kicks Off Reading Program Emmet O’Neal Library Children’s Department registered nearly 500 children for its “One World, Many Stories” summer reading program last month during the 30th annual program’s kickoff. The afternoon began with the one-mile Thomas Hughes

Brinkley Memorial Fun Run, with kids and parents running, walking, strolling, skating and biking through the neighborhood behind the library. Following the run, a twohour carnival featured concessions, train rides and art and game booths sponsored and run by the Junior Women’s Committee of 100. The highlight of the afternoon was when the Mountain Brook Fire Department raised its ladder and turned on the hose to create a cascade of mist for kids (and brave adults) to cool off in. The Junior Women’s Committee of 100 donates all funds raised by the kickoff to the library’s children’s department. At the carnival, summer reading registration opened to readers of all ages, from birth to adult, and will remain open through the end of July. Children who sign up have the opportunity to earn free books and prizes all summer long. Those who bring their reading logs to the children’s department to have them checked will also receive certificates when they return to school in August.

VHEE Has Market Day for 2nd Graders

Market Day for the second grade classes at Vestavia Hills Elementary East was April 22. The event gives students the opportunity to open a business that sells a good or provides a service. Students and parents shop the market, where all goods and services are created by the students. Market Day allows the children to be creative and share their talents, while learning about supply and demand, marketing, investing and profit. ❖

Learning about business at Vestavia Hills Elementary East’s Market Day were second graders, from left: James Johnston, Lleyton Hargrove and Tyler Moore. Photo special to the Journal

THURSDAY, JUNE 16, 2011 • 23

SCHOOLS

OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL

The ACE Cheer Company Warriors in Homewood competed at the World’s Championship in April. The coed team of 36 members won first place in its division, completing an undefeated season. The team is the first from Alabama to win the title.

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Beekeeper Visits Gwin Elementary

Ken Moore, grandfather of Gwin Elementary third grader Reagan Moore and first grader Keegan Moore, visited the school recently to share his hobby of beekeeping with Ashley Dark’s third graders and Kathy Tyson’s first graders. Moore has been beekeeping for six months and is expecting his first batch of honey in July. The children were able to see what a beekeeper wears and why, as well as a video and posters explaining the life of a bee. At the end of the presentation, the students enjoyed samples of honey and the comb. The presentation was part of Dark’s “Family Fridays,” when students welcome family and friends to the classroom to share information about jobs, hobbies and cultures with classmates.

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Ken Moore visited Gwin Elementary to talk about beekeeping with Ashley Dark’s third graders. In the group are his granddaughters, third grader Reagan Moore, back row, third from left, and future kindergartner Karis Moore, front row, center. Photo special to the Journal

Cub Scouts Earn Arrow of Light

Cub Scouts from Pack 63 who earned the Arrow of Light were: Robert Briggs, Ford Clegg, Bond Elliott, R.L. England, Conyers Hallman, Christopher Harmon, Will Jackson, Michael Knight, Ford McInnis, Harrison Moore, Jay Pankey, Matthew Romero and Bascombe Traywick. Den leader is Doug Elliott; Cub Master is Jay Skinner.

Photo special to the Journal

Boys from Cub Scout Pack 63, sponsored by Canterbury United Methodist Church, earned their Arrow of Light awards March 22. The ceremony at Canterbury was held to present the boys with the highest award given in Cub Scouts. This award is the only Cub Scout badge that can be worn on the Boy Scout uniform when recipients graduate into troops. To earn the award, the Scouts had to first earn their Webelos badges and then complete requirements for five activity badges and the Honesty and Character Connection program. They also had to complete several other required tasks, including setting up campsites, cooking meals outdoor and tying knots. ❖

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24 • THURSDAY, JUNE 16, 2011

WEDDINGS & ENGAGEMENTS

Lake Martin marriage story by Laura McAlister • photos by Daniel Taylor Photography

Above: Paige and Brent Harris walk down the pier at Children’s Harbor after saying their vows May 21. Below, left: The reception was at Russell Lands’ The Ridge Club House. They brought their own chandelier to decorate the outside area, and Kathy G provided the southern fare. Below, right: The flower girl wore a LulaKate dress with a purple sash with the bride and groom’s initials.

OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL

Couple Celebrates with Family, Friends at Favorite Summer Retreat

hen Paige Brannon Harris was a little girl, she used to dream of getting married on the shores of Lake Martin. Her family has a vacation home there and spent entire summers there with no TV, just the lake and their imaginations for entertainment. One of Paige’s favorite games, she recalls, was “chapel.” “There was a church like 200 yards from our house,” she said. “It was an empty, abandoned church. We’d go there and have pretend weddings.” Knowing how much Paige loved the lake, Brent Harris knew it would be the perfect setting for his wedding proposal. So about a year after the two met, he popped the question right at the old church on Lake Martin. About a year later, the couple was married, as Paige had always dreamed, at Lake Martin, not far from her family lake house. Paige, a Vestavia Hills native, and Brent of Montgomery said their vows May 21 at Children’s Harbor. The lake where Paige spent so many summers served as the backdrop to the outdoor ceremony. And since the lake has always been a place for family and friends, so was this summer wedding and reception. “They really just wanted to have a good time and be with their family and friends,” said M. Elizabeth Events’ Meghan Cease, the couple’s wedding planner. “They wanted the focus to really be on family and friends and their love of nature. They took it and really ran with it.” With Paige away at school in Texas studying for her Ph.D. in clinical psychiatry, Even the couple’s invitation reflected their vintage most of the planning nature theme. was left to her mom, Vicki. In this case, mother did know best when it came to what her daughter and soon-to-be son-in-law wanted in their lake wedding. The color for the wedding was purple, Paige’s favorite; the theme was nature, or more specifically, birds. Meghan said the real charm of this wedding was all in the details. From a letter press nature scene on the invitations to the doves released at the ceremony and decorations at the reception, Paige and Brent stuck to their vintage nature theme, while keeping it a fun, family-friendly wedding. “In the wedding industry we always preach the details,” Meghan said. “But so many brides see something they like at someone else’s wedding, and they want it even though it doesn’t necessarily work with everything else. Paige and Brent’s wedding was very cohesive. “The whole DIY and Etsy wedding is real popular right now, and they did it right.” The couple looked to the popular website etsy.com, an online marketplace for handmade and vintage products, to help them create their ideal wedding. Through the website, Paige’s mom found a woman who designs maps of Lake Martin. She had those designs put on a tote bag that each guest received when arriving at the

OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL

THURSDAY, JUNE 16, 2011 • 25

WEDDINGS & ENAGEMENTS

“The lake really represents what we want our life to be – great people, relaxed and easygoing and the nature.” ceremony. The bags were filled with items to make the hot day more enjoyable. In addition to some lake-themed gifts, the totes also had bug spray and water as well as weddingthemed coloring books and crayons to entertain children. “We also included sugar cookies for everybody with my great-grandmother’s recipe,” Paige said of the totes, which weren’t the only item guests were given before the ceremony. Each also received a boutonnière. “We just wanted everybody to feel like they were a part of the wedding.” The boutonnières were different from the flowers of those in the wedding party, which consisted of seven bridesmaids and seven groomsmen as well as a flower girl and three ring bearers. In keeping with her nature theme, Paige had Mandy Majerik with Hothouse Design Studios design her wedding party bouquets and boutonnières to resemble wildflowers. As for the wedding attire, the groom and groomsmen wore gray seersucker suits with purple ties to match the deep purple LulaKate bridesmaid dresses that came in three different necklines for the bridesmaids to choose from. While Paige’s mom and Meghan worked out many of the details of the Lake Martin wedding, Paige was more focused on the dress, and it didn’t take her long to say “yes” when she began her search. “My dress is the most beautiful dress in the world,” Paige said. “I told Brent not to be surprised if he comes home one day and I’m wearing it. I love it. I got it at the White Room in Cahaba Heights. It’s an Amsale.” The dress is featured on the homepage of the designer’s website and was also worn on a recent episode of ABC’s “Brothers & Sisters.” It’s strapless with a rouched top. What really makes it unique, though, is the full skirt. “It’s got like strips of fabric fashioned into flowers. It’s hard to explain,” Paige said. “Everybody was wanting to touch it.” Paige added a splash of color to her wedding attire with purple pumps to match her bridesmaids’ gowns and groomsmen’s ties. The relaxed family- and friend-oriented wedding celebration continued at the reception, which was at Russell Lands’ The Ridge Club House. The setting allowed guests to kick back indoors or outside by the pool dining on Southern cuisine by Kathy G. Entertainment included traditional lake lawn games like corn hole. “Paige wanted the reception to be fun. She insisted it be fun,” Meghan said. “It was. It felt like we were in their own backyard. It was that laid back. Everyone was together like a family reunion.” For their sendoff, the couple ran through confetti and hopped in their own car – there are really not any car services on Lake Martin – but their wedding celebration wasn’t over just yet. Since most of the guests were staying overnight, they threw a brunch at Willow Point Golf & Country Club on Lake Martin the following morning. Paige said it was the �� perfect ending to their wedding weekend, as �� well as the beginning �� of their marriage. “Everything was �� just so perfect,” she �� said. “The lake really represents what we �� want our life to be �� – great people, relaxed and easygoing and the �� nature. ” ��

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p.s. hope to see you soon! Annabelle’s

Top: Paige had seven bridesmaids and one flower girl. The bridesmaids wore LulaKate dresses and got to choose from a variety of necklines. Above: Each guests received a tote bag with a map of Lake Martin in it filled with useful items to make the wedding comfortable and memorable.

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26 • THURSDAY, JUNE 16, 2011

OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL

WEDDINGS & ENGAGEMENTS

A Sparkling History

Bromberg’s Celebrates 175th Anniversary

BY DONNA CORNELIUS

JOURNAL FEATURES WRITER

any business owners likely have suffered through sleepless nights as they wonder how their companies will cope with recent economic downturns. One Birmingham institution has endured not only swings in the economy, including the financial panic of 1837 and the Great Depression, but a catastrophic fire and a yellow fever epidemic. Bromberg & Company, celebrating its 175th anniversary this year, hasn’t just survived; it’s flourished. Whether it’s a diamond ring or a piece of fine china, a gift from Bromberg’s is one that many people receive with anticipation. Its silver gift box is as familiar to Birmingham customers as Tiffany & Co.’s famous pale blue box. In fact, Bromberg’s is a year older than the venerable New York store. Bromberg’s sterling reputation and longevity – it’s the oldest family-owned retailer in the U.S. – can be attributed to its willingness to change with the times, Ricky said. Bromberg, current president of the company and a member of the sixth generation of the family who started Bromberg’s in 1836. “The company has historically done well by adapting,” he said. “It’s always been primarily a jewelry store, but it included luxuries. “That definition changes over time. Cameras used to be a luxury. My greatgrandfather was friends with George Eastman (founder of the Eastman Kodak Co.), and we had the first Kodak dealership in the South.” When instant cameras, which were more affordable, came into vogue, “We exited the camera business,” said Ricky. That’s just one example of how the company altered its business plan to keep in step with the times. It’s a philosophy that started with founder Frederick Bromberg. Frederick was born in Prussia, where the Bromberg family was well known. According to a book commissioned for the company’s 150th birthday, the city of Bromberg was a thriving community, and the Bromberg castle overlooked the Danube. When the area fell to Polish rule in about 1831, many German artists and professionals emigrated. Among them was Frederick, who went first to Hamburg and then traveled to the U.S. in 1832. After two years in New York City, he and his wife moved to Mobile to open a store. Bromberg’s made it through the 1837 financial panic and then had to find a new location after an 1839 fire that destroyed much of downtown Mobile’s retail center. Frederick’s wife contracted yellow fever during an epidemic and had to return to a cooler climate for a while with the couple’s three children, leaving Frederick to carry on in Mobile. Happily, she eventually was able to return home so the family could be reunited.

Bride-to-be Sara Emily Allen, right, works on her wedding registry at Bromberg’s in Mountain Brook with her mother, Leslie Allen. Journal photo by Emil Wald

Brides Still Flock To Bromberg’s

BY DONNA CORNELIUS

JOURNAL FEATURES WRITER

Ricky Bromberg is the president of Bromberg & Company and is a sixth generation of the family. This year, Bromberg’s celebrates 175 years of business in Birmingham. Journal photo by Emil Wald

Frederick’s grandson, a handsome fellow named Frederick W. Bromberg, was responsible for the company’s move to Birmingham in 1900. “Birmingham was a boom town around the turn of the century,” Ricky said. “It was a great opportunity to be part of one of the fastest-growing cities in the country, but it was a bold move.” The store’s first home was on 20th Street at First Avenue. North. Later, Bromberg’s bought the site of the former Drennen Department Store at Second Avenue and 20th Street North. Architect Gordon Carr, who also designed the Tiffany & Co. building in New York, was hired to create a showplace, a five-story building with an exterior of rose-colored terrazzo and limestone. With growth in Birmingham’s suburbs, Bromberg’s opened its Mountain Brook store in 1959. The first 3,000 visitors went home with a complimentary piece of jewelry. “Over the last 25 years, we’ve focused on Birmingham,” Ricky said. In addition to its two stores, the company retains its corporate headquarters in the 20th Street building. Frank Bromberg Jr., Ricky’s father, is “retired but comes in to check his mail,” Ricky said. Ricky’s brother, Frank Bromberg III, is executive vice president. Cousin Paul Byrne is retired but still has ties to the family business, while Paul’s son Russell Byrne is “our IT person,” Ricky said. The “family” extends to people like Frances Moore, a Bromberg’s employee for 71 years. “Her father worked here,” Ricky said. “You don’t see that except in a family company. We have longtime associates and very little turnover.” Bromberg’s has remained a family-

through the years ...

Frederick Bromberg was originally from Prussia. He and his wife moved to Mobile in the 1830s and opened the first Bromberg’s. owned business for two reasons, Ricky said. “First, we’ve been fortunate to have six generations with the ability to run the company,” he said. “Also, given the times, we were fortunate that each generation had at least one son to carry on. Today, of course, that would be irrelevant.” Ricky’s first job was elevator operator in the downtown store – or, as he likes to say, “vice president of vertical transportation.” “I got paid 50 cents for my first day and still have it framed at my house,” he said. “Also, I got unlimited credit at the hot dog stand down the street.” ❖

romberg’s ability to change with the times extends to its bridal department. While the store still carries traditional favorites in china, silver and crystal, it has expanded its offerings to appeal to modern tastes. Julia Glass, the company’s gift buyer, searches out companies and artists who specialize in casual designs. “Most popular in our casual line is Jaliska from Portugal,” she said. “Number two, also from Portugal, is Legado by Skyros. “Tena Payne from Leeds designed a botanical line for us,” she said. “Everyone seems to like it. It’s handmade and eco-friendly. And Simon Pearce and his wife Pia, from Vermont, have been very successful for us.” Trends include monogramming; it’s hot, Julia said, not just in dinnerware but for other gifts. In addition to sterling silver flatware, brides might opt for Bromberg’s Supper Club hotel silver. “It’s just $25 a place setting,” she said. “It’s mix and match and fun for a dinner party.” Also on many brides’ must-have lists are Peterman’s wooden bowls and slabs as well as alternative metal pieces by Beatriz Ball. The Louisiana native makes pieces that safely go from freezer or oven to the table. Even time-honored Waterford has updated its act. “Waterford never goes out of style,” Julia said, “but the company wised up by changing its popular Lismore pattern. It’s now called Lismore Essence. It’s a taller glass and not as heavily cut, and it’s dishwasher safe.” At Bromberg’s, brides come in to meet with bridal consultants Janice Bowman at the Mountain Brook store and Debra Calhoun at The Summit. “They let the brides come in and play,” Julia said. “And brides from all over use our online registry.” Bromberg’s was one of the first companies to offer this service. “To me, it’s a joy to see the girls come in and work with our bridal people,” Julia said. While brides are usually the stars of the show, Ricky Bromberg has some sound advice for grooms. “Retain veto power,” he said with a smile. “If you really hate something, speak up. Otherwise, keep your mouth shut.” ❖

OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL

Womack-Nevins

Mr. and Mrs. William Gregory Womack of Birmingham announce the engagement of their daughter, Abby Owens Womack, to James Holder Nevins Jr., son of Mr. and Mrs. James Holder Nevins of Birmingham. The bride-elect is the granddaughter of Mr. and Mrs. Alton Hugh Long of Birmingham and Mr. and Mrs. Richard Muse Womack, also of Birmingham, and the late Mrs. Nancy Brewer Womack.

Reitz-Peinhardt

Ashley Reitz and Curtis Peinhardt were married May 14 at Barnsley Gardens Resort in Georgia. Dr. Ken Freshour officiated. The bride is the daughter of

Hamilton-Daniel

Mr. and Mrs. George Hamilton of Huntsville announce the engagement of their daughter, Lucy Hamilton, to Christopher Daniel, son of Mr. and Mrs. Charles William Daniel of Mountain Brook.

Miss Womack is a 2006 graduate of Mountain Brook High School. She graduated magna cum laude from Auburn University in 2010 with a bachelor’s degree in nutrition and dietetics. She was secretary of the War Eagle Girls and Plainsmen and is a member of Alpha Gamma Delta sorority. She was presented at the Ball of Roses. She will begin working in the fall with the UAB EatRight program while completing a master of science degree in nutrition. The prospective groom is the grandson of Mrs. Elizabeth Collins Frech and the late Mr. Harry Eugene Frech of Birmingham and Mr. and Mrs. Crawford Nevins, also of Birmingham. Mr. Nevins is a 2006 graduate of Mountain Brook High School. He graduated from Auburn University in 2010 with a bachelor’s degree in building science and was president of Beta Theta Pi fraternity. He is employed with Brasfield and Gorrie in Birmingham. The wedding is planned for July 30 at Brookwood Baptist Church. Mr. and Mrs. Robert Reitz of Birmingham. The groom is the son of Mr. and Mrs. Brent Peinhardt of Mountain Brook. The bride was given in marriage by her father. She wore a Romona Keveza gown. Nikki Reitz, sister of the bride, was maid of honor. Bridesmaids were Leila Blackmon, Kibbe Foss, Lauren McCulloch and Sarah Peinhardt. The father of the groom was best man. Groomsmen were Tim Davis, Alexander Jones, Jeff DeMedicis, John Peinhardt and Clay Pittman. Kellan Farrington, Peter Florence and Elliot Higuera were ring bearers. After a European cruise to Italy, Greece and Turkey, specifically Rome, Santorini, Athens, Istanbul, Ephesus, Mykonos, Naples and Capri, the couple live in Birmingham. The bride-elect is the granddaughter of Mrs. Fay Hamilton of Huntsville and the late Mr. Julian Hamilton and the late Mr. and Mrs. Ernest Wilborn of Gurley. Miss Hamilton is a 2007 graduate of Birmingham-Southern College with a bachelor’s degree in dance and was a member of Chi Omega sorority. She is a student at Samford University’s McWhorter School of Pharmacy. The prospective groom is the grandson of Mrs. Irma Pate of Sarepta, La., and the late Mr. Pate and the late Mr. and Mrs. Hugh Daniel of Mountain Brook. He is a 2008 graduate of Birmingham-Southern College with a bachelor’s degree in English and was a member of Theta Chi fraternity. He received his juris doctorate from Cumberland School of Law in 2011. The wedding is planned for Aug. 6.

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WEDDINGS & ENGAGEMENTS

Wilson-Heppenstall

Jessica Anne Wilson and Rest Baker Heppenstall Jr. were married May 21 at Church of the Holy Communion in Memphis, Tenn. The Rev. Mark Rutenbar officiated the evening ceremony. A reception followed at Chickasaw Country Club. The bride is the daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Will Nathan Wilson Jr. of Memphis. She is the grand-

daughter of the late Mr. and Mrs. Paul Edward Nelms of Bolivar, Tenn., and Mr. Will Nathan Wilson Sr. and the late Mrs. Jean Garrott Wilson of West Memphis, Ark. The groom is the son of Mr. and Mrs. Rest Baker Heppenstall of Birmingham. He is the grandson of the late Mr. and Mrs. Robert Bole Heppenstall Jr. of Pittsburgh and Mrs. Elbert Sevier Jemison Jr. and the late Mr. Elbert Sevier Jemison Jr. of Birmingham. The bride was given in marriage by her father. Attending the bride was her sister, Stephanie Carole Shy, as matron of honor. Bridesmaids were Sarah Neely Parker, cousin of the bride; Jess Anne Heppenstall, sister of the groom; Laura Walsh Givens of Jackson, Miss.; Rebecca Ramsay Harris of Memphis; Laura Lee Lang of Dallas; Elizabeth Lyle Parkes of Nashville, Tenn.; Eden Elizabeth Sherman of Oxford, Miss;, Megan Ruth Summerville of Dallas; Sarah Scott Vizard of Bryan Buczek, all of Birmingham; Nathan Wood of Ponte Vedra; and Kenneth Polk of Alexander City. Ring bearers were Will and Andy Ferguson of Homewood, nephews of the bri de. After a wedding trip to Antigua, the couple lives in Birmingham.

Ferguson-Hiebert

Jamie Michele Ferguson and William Lawrence Hiebert II were married May 21 at St. Francis Xavier Catholic Church. Monsignor Paul Rohling officiated. A reception followed at Vestavia Country Club. The bride is the daughter of Judge and Mrs. R.A. “Sonny” Ferguson Jr. of Birmingham. The groom is the son of Mr. William Lawrence Hiebert of Lexington, S.C., and Ms. Pamela G. Ryan of Brunswick, Ga. The bride was given in marriage by her father. Lorie Bradford, sister of the bride, of Vestavia Hills was the matron of honor. Bridesmaids were Becky Ferguson, Laura Flemming, Colleen Jensen, Ashton Tureaud and Emily Cantrell, all of Birmingham; Sara Hodges of Atlanta; Sarah Meriwether of Montgomery; Virginia Hiebert of Greenville, S.C.; and Erin Wood of Ponte Vedra, Fla. Flower girl was Laney Brennan, godchild of the groom, of Pelham. The groom’s father was his best man. Groomsmen were Trey Ferguson, Matt Bradford, Nathan Holloway, Chris Brown, Chris Brennan, Michael Sofferin and

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New Orleans; and Aubrey Lauren Wingo of Germantown, Tenn. Flower girl was Grace Frances Shy, niece of the bride. The groom’s father served as best man. Groomsmen were Jonathan Casey Brunt of Clarksdale, Miss.; Travis Andrew Bustamante of Knoxville, Tenn.; Parker Lee Bynum of Birmingham; Andrew Robinson Gowdey of Jackson, Miss.; Robert Bole Heppenstall IV of New Orleans; Thomas Randolph Hines Jr. of Vail, Colo.; David Whitney Van Hoy of Birmingham; and Charles Hyde Weissinger III of Rolling Fork, Miss. Junior groomsmen were David Foote Sellers Shy Jr. and Edwin Nelms Shy of Memphis, nephews of the bride. After a honeymoon trip to Antigua, the couple is at home in New Orleans.

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Aitken-Martin

Ashley Kate Aitken and Michael David Martin were married April 9 at Aldridge Gardens. The Rev. Gary Edge officiated. The bride is the daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Lyle Wayne Aitken of Tuscaloosa. The groom is the son of Mr. and Mrs. David Charles

Joseph-Miller

Melissa Decker Joseph and William David Miller were united in marriage on December 18, 2010 at Bluff Park United Methodist Church, Hoover. The Reverend Robert Mercer officiated the ceremony. A reception followed at B & A Warehouse. The bride is the daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Carlo H. Joseph III of Hoover. She is the granddaughter of Ms. Karolyn Mersmann, Dr. and

Crockett-Watkins

Elizabeth Gaines Crockett and Robert Nicholas Watkins were married March 26 at noon at The Club. Mr. Rick Dykes of Church of the Highlands officiated. The reception, a seated luncheon, followed in the

WEDDINGS & ENGAGEMENTS Martin of Birmingham. The bride was given in marriage by her parents. She wore a strapless ivory silk taffeta gown with rouched silk organza flowers. The maid of honor was Millacent Dailey Boschung. Bridesmaids were Morgan O’Neal Cowling, Jessica Anne Delo, Amy Lauren Etheridge, Brittany Nicole Fuson, Caley Diana King, Andrea Smith Martin and Kelly Lopez Martin. Flower girl was Kate Bradley Martin. The groom’s father was best man. Groomsmen were Braden Ryan Bell, Landon Allen Heckman, Michael Ryder Hurst, Matthew Todd Ladden, Hunter Charles Martin, William Jordan Martin, Thomas Greene Ritch IV and Brian Andrew Selman. After a honeymoon trip to St. Lucia, the couple live in Birmingham. Mrs. James Mersmann, and Mrs. Sadie Joseph and the late Mrs. Carlo H. Joseph Jr., all of Hoover. The groom is the son of Mr. and Mrs. William Allen Miller of Hoover. He is the grandson of Mrs. Mary Ann Hornbuckle and the late Mr. William Donald Hornbuckle of New Hope and Ms. Carolyn Miller of Hoover and the late Dr. Alex Miller of Birmingham. The bride was given in marriage by her father. Attending the bride were her sisters, Lauren Joseph Toth, as matron of honor, and Jennifer Joseph, as maid of honor. Bridesmaids were Calley Mersmann, cousin of the bride, Lauren Davis Bumpous and Heather Pierce. Flower girl was Sadie Bekurs. The groom’s brothers, Donald Miller and Robert Miller, served as best men. Groomsmen were Patrick Scott, Charles Crain, and Randy Long. The ringbearer was Christopher Joseph Toth, nephew of the bride. After a honeymoon trip to London and Paris, the couple is at home in Auburn. Grand Ballroom. The bride is the daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Stanley Theodore Crockett Jr. of Greystone. The groom is the son of Mr. Robert Dean Watkins of Hartselle and Mrs. Mark Alan Nicholson of Hartselle. Given in marriage by her father, the bride wore an ivory hand-loomed raw Italian silk gown featuring a fitted ruched bodice embellished with pearls, sequins and beading. The tulle sleeves, pleated and accented with pearls, matched her veil. Mrs. Josh Fincher was matron of honor. Maids of honor were Mrs. Matthew McLean and Miss Audrey Mize. Mr. Dane Burgess, brother of the groom, was best man. Groomsmen were Mr. Cullen Brown, Mr. Lucas Bruner and Mr. Rand Harris. After a honeymoon to Orange Beach, the couple live in Northport.

Thornton-Badham

Tere Trawick Thornton and Walker Percy Badham IV were married May 28 at 6 p.m. at the Cathedral Church of the Advent in Birmingham. The Very Reverend Frank M. Limehouse

Hartley-Williams

Sally Caroline Hartley and Daniel Lon Williams were married April 23rd at 6 p.m. in Alys Beach, Fla. A reception followed at Foneville Press in Alys Beach.

Jordan-Knight

Laura Taylor Jordan and Brett Heath Knight were married June 11 at Mountain Brook Baptist Church. Dr. James D. Moebes and the Rev. Sheryl Jordan Thornton, aunt of the bride, performed the ceremony. A reception followed at the Country Club of Birmingham. The bride is the daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Randall Willard Jordan of Birmingham. Parents of the groom are Mrs. Keith Landon Thornton of Montevallo and Mr. Walter

OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL

officiated. A reception followed at Mountain Brook Club. The bride is the daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Hugh Browning Thornton Jr. She is the granddaughter of the late Dr. and Mrs. John Stuart Yow Jr. of Montgomery and Mr. and Mrs. Allyn Mabson Thames, also of Montgomery, and the late Mr. Hugh Browning Thornton Sr. of Destin, Fla. The groom is the son of Mr. and Mrs. Walker Percy Badham III. He is the grandson of Mrs. Marjory Growden Poundstone and the late Mr. Phillip Paterson Poundstone of Montgomery and the late Mr. and Mrs. Walker Percy Badham Jr. of Birmingham. The bride was given in marriage by her father. Virginia Ferguson Perry of Charleston, S.C. was maid of honor. Bridesmaids were Lindsey

Harris Badham, sister of the groom, Elizabeth McGehee Culpepper, Mary Caroline Davis, Cecelia McGowin Ey, Emily Rudd Ey, Margaret McClure Hammond, Caroline Yow Parker, Lacey Rader Russell and Hannah Cowart Thornton, sister-in-law of the bride. The groom’s father served as best man. Groomsmen were Phillip Paterson Badham, brother of the groom, Jeffery John Brunette, John Daniel Buckingham, III, Parker Lee Bynum, Anders Gillum Gustafson, Layne Besser Held, Ryan Clay Larson, Matthew Ryan Levin, Harry Switow Saag and Hugh Browning Thornton III, brother of the bride. Hugh Browning Thornton IV served as ring bearer. Following a wedding trip, the couple will live in Birmingham.

The Rev. Brian Buonassissi officiated. The bride is the daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Hubert Donald Holcombe of Pensacola, Fla. and Mr. & Mrs. Thomas David Hartley of Evergreen. She is the granddaughter of Mamie Brantley Hartley of Evergreen and the late Mr. and Mrs. Lewie Matt Wilson and the late Mr. Thomas Guy Hartley all of Evergreen. The groom is the son of Dr. Philip Lon Williams and the late Clara Ralls Williams of Gadsden. He is the grandson of the late Maude & Marvin Williams and the late Clara & Arthur Ralls of Gadsden. The bride was given in marriage by her father. Clara Alexander Williams of Birmingham attended as the maid of honor and Bettina Baer Coleman of Maidenhead,

England attended as the matron of honor. Bridesmaids were Lori Beth Kearley of Birmingham; Kelsey Kimberly Powell of Washington, DC; and Laura Rogers Trotman of Montgomery. Jeffrey Philip Williams of Brentwood, Tenn. and Jonathan Creel Williams of Birmingham served as best men. Ushers were Thomas Matthew Hartley of Evergreen, and Alton Ralls Pennington of Gadsden. The flower girls were Caroline Elizabeth Hartley of Evergreen, and Sara Lane Smith of Birmingham. The ring bearers were Thomas Eugene Hartley of Evergreen and Hoke Jackson Smith of Birmingham. After a honeymoon trip to Virgin Gorda, British Virgin Islands, the couple live in Birmingham.

William Knight Jr. of Decatur. The bride, wearing an heirloom veil also worn by her mother and grandmother, was given in marriage by her father. Attending the bride as maids of honor were her sisters, Katherine Cross Jordan and Virginia Gaskell Jordan. Bridesmaids were Elizabeth Anne Jordan, cousin of the bride, Sara Emily Allen, Elizabeth Patton Howard, Elizabeth Margot Major, Mary Frances McDougald and Jessica Blair Tommie. Walter William Knight Jr., father of the groom, and William Chad Knight, brother of the groom, served as best men. Groomsmen were Christopher Bryan Crumpler, Jonathan Shayne Hughes, Austin Davis Till, Brandon Lee Tucker, Jonathan Martin Walker and John Michael Wells Jr. Ushers were Barrett Cobb Hundley, Hayden Edwards Hundley, David Allen Pitts Jr. and Matthew David Taccone. After a honeymoon trip to Playa del Carmen, Mexico, the couple will be at home in Birmingham.

To share your engagement and wedding news with us, fill out a form at www.otmj. com or send your announcement to editorial@otmj. com. If you’d like a wedding & engagement form sent to you, call 823-9646.

WEDDINGS & ENGAGEMENTS

OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL

THURSDAY, JUNE 16, 2011 • 29

Ivory & White

Engaged Wedding Library Engaged Wedding Library and Perfect Wedding Guide will host its fourth annual SoHo Bridal Show on Aug. 7, 2011 at Rosewood Hall at SoHo Square from 1-4 p.m. SoHo Bridal Show is a fresh but familiar approach to the wedding planning process. Being Birmingham’s only boutique bridal show, it focuses on the needs of the “Over the Mountain” bride. Rosewood Hall is completely transformed to provide inspiration for every bride’s wedding style. Wedding professionals go all out for this bridal event showcasing all the latest trends in the wedding industry. “By allowing local floral designers to sponsor the venue décor, it gives the show the energy and excitement of an actual wedding” says show producer Stephanie Whitaker. “Brides leave this event inspired and ready to plan their perfect day.” More than 50 of Birmingham’s elite wedding professionals will be on location offering

delicious cake and food tastings, amazing wedding gowns, and trends in invitations, floral design, and gift registry. This year, guests will be greeted with live music on the patio and a special treat from our caterers. Each year, brides are given the opportunity to win thousands of dollars in giveaways. The first 100 brides to pre-register online at SoHoBridalShow.com will receive a wedding day swag bag filled with goodies and coupons! Discounted tickets are also available through pre-purchase online. Other show sponsors include Ivory and White Bridal Boutique, Mr. Burch, Total Entertainment, GoPro Event Solutions, Rosewood Hall, Dorothy McDaniel’s Flower Market, Rachel Gaudel and Andy Boyles, Norton’s, Studio D Photography, Aztec Events and Tents, and Alabama Weddings Magazine. “SoHo Bridal Show is a ‘can’t miss’ for every over the mountain bride!” says Stephanie. For details on booth reservations or tickets please contact Katie Calhan at 205.637.0735 or Katie.Calhan@pwg.com or visit www.sohobridalshow.com.

“Ivory & White opened October 1, 2008 in Crestline Village in Mountain Brook,” says owner Brooke Mason, right. “We strive to provide the complete package, from the utmost in customer service to elegant surroundings and, most importantly, uniting the bride with the perfect gown for her. An overall gratifying experience is our number one priority. Because just as we believe your wedding day should truly be the happiest day of your life, we believe in making the journey a beautiful experience as well. Ivory & White also offers in house alterations. The bride will never have to worry about finding a seamstress on her own or taking her dress to another location. From the moment the bride chooses her gown to the day of the wedding, we will keep her dress safe, steamed and stored!” According to Brooke during the wedding planning process there are several important factors to keep in mind. 1. You want to allow ample time to purchase, produce, alter and prepare a wedding gown. If at all possible, we recommend that the bride purchase her gown 8 months before her wedding. Although this time frame would be ideal, we realize not all brides have the luxury of time on their side. If you are a bride in a time crunch, we do have several designers who have a much quicker production period than the standard 4 to 5 months and alterations can be scheduled for a quicker turn-around time. 2. Make an appointment during a trunk show, especially if you tend to be drawn to

the aesthetics of a specific designer. This is a wonderful opportunity to view the latest collections, as well as meet with a representative from the company who will assist you in making any custom changes to your gown that may not normally be offered. Special incentives as well as a 10% discount will be offered during all trunk shows! Come prepared to buy so you can partake in the special offers! Oscar de la Renta: June 17th and 18th, Liancarlo: July 15th and 16th, Bliss by Monique Lhuillier: August 12th and 13th. Check our website for any updates or changes at www.ivorywhiteboutique.com. 3. Don’t forget to enjoy the wedding planning process! Each bride is unique and special in her own way. Try to include personal touches that represent aspects of your journey throughout your relationship or something unique that your guests will always remember. Ivory & White is located at 55 Church St., and their phone number is 871-2888.

PLEASE JOIN US FOR THE

08.07.11 1-4 p.m.

SPRING 2012 BRIDAL TRUNK SHOW JUNE 16 – 18, 2011

Rosewood Hall at SoHo Square 2850 19th Street South Downtown Homewood 205.637.0735

For more details and to pre-register visit

www.SohoBridalShow.com

55 Church Street Birmingham, AL 35213

Appointments are required. Please RSVP 205.871.2888

30 • THURSDAY, JUNE 16, 2011

WEDDINGS & ENGAGEMENTS

OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL

Bella Bridesmaids Pelham Civic Complex

“There is no more important day in your life – you want everything to be perfect. So do we,” says Barbara Pepper, above, with Pelham Civic Complex. “Take a look at the Pelham Civic Complex, it is surprisingly affordable. Our elegantly decorated banquet hall is the perfect place for your reception, whether you are planning a small party or large celebration. “The complex offers in-house catering that will win you rave reviews from your guests. Visit our website for a photo gallery of our flexible space and a complete list of reception menus. Or better yet, call or drop by anytime to see for yourself that the Pelham Civic Complex is the perfect place for your wedding ceremony or reception.” For more information, please call Barbara Pepper (205) 620-6449, email: sp ecialevents@pelhamonline.com or visit our website: www.pelhamciviccomplex.com.

Sister’s Charlotte Sizemore, left and Jeana Lee Fleming opened Bella Bridesmaid in March of 2007. “At Bella Bridesmaid you will find that our quaint and inviting boutique offers a refreshing alternative to the usual bridesmaid experience,” says Jeana Lee. “Realizing the important role of a bridesmaid dress, we provide each bride with personalized attention in a one-on-one environment. “With over 20 different bridesmaid dress lines including four exclusive lines that are only available at Bella Bridesmaid you can find a wide variety of stylish, wearable and modern bridesmaid dresses as well as other classic and specialty bridesmaid products, gifts and accessories all in a one-stop shop. “It is of the utmost importance that the bridesmaids get that one-on-one superior customer service when choosing the bridesmaid dresses just as the bride gets when she goes to pick out her bridal gown. Bella Bridesmaids is located 111 Broadway, Suite #3 in Homewood and their phone number is 205-871-2383.

Olexa’s Cafe, Cakes and Catering Dorothy McDaniels “For more than 30 years, we have executed weddings with style and grace,” says owner Dorothy McDaniel, above. “While a Dorothy McDaniel wedding has become a Birmingham tradition, we are inspired by each bride’s individuality to create her special day. Our experienced design and event planning team ensure not only spectacular flowers, but a cherished memory to remember. “We offer complete wedding planning and management as well as wedding products and services including invitations, tenting, lighting, and rentals of linen, props, tables and chairs. We will work with your vision and your budget.” Call 205-871-0092 to schedule a complementary wedding consultation.

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Olexa’s Cafe, Cakes and Catering is nestled in quaint Mountain Brook Village. “We serve delicious homemade food daily,” says owner Diane Olexa. “Join us for lunch or we can book a specialty party or rehearsal dinner. “Some important things to consider when selecting a venue for a wedding, reception or other wedding party function is: does it suit a theme, can it accommodate your guest count comfortably, is it a memorable event site for you and your guests?” says Diane. “Here at Olexa’s we have a wonderful space for bridal luncheons, bridal teas, showers and rehearsal dinners. “We have a unique and charming atmosphere that will create a memorable evening for your guests. The ambiance at Olexa’s will transport your guests to the feel of a European courtyard.” Olexa’s Cafe, Cakes and Catering is located at 2838 Culver Road, Mountain Brook Village, and their phone number is 871-2060.

Wedding Receptions Ceremonies Rehearsal Dinners Whether it is an intimate gathering of friends and family or 500 of your closest friends, our beautifully decorated banquet hall is the perfect setting. Our in-house catering offers a variety of reception menus. Visit our website for a photo gallery of our banquet hall and a complete list of menu options.

bellabridesmaid.com

Call 205.620.6449 today. w w w. p e l h a m c i v i c c o m p l e x . c o m specialevents@pelhamonline.com

BELLA BRIDESMAID BIRMINGHAM 1 1 1 B R O A D W AY S T, S U I T E # 3 H O M E W O O D, A L 35209 205.871.2383 B I R M I N G H A M @ B E L L A B R I D E S M A I D. CO M

Flowers Stationery Rentals Event Planning 2560 18TH STREET SOUTH HOMEWOOD, ALABAMA

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NestledininMountain Mountain Brook Brook Village Nestled Village 2838 Culver Road 2838 Culver Road 205.871.2060 | Mon-Sat 10–4 205.871.2060 | Mon-Sat 10–4 www.olexas.com www.olexas.com

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OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL

WEDDINGS & ENGAGEMENTS

M. Elizabeth Events

Smart Skin

Specializing in weddings, M. Elizabeth Events creates signature celebrations where details shine and execution is flawless. They pride themselves on remarkable service and treating each client as if they are our only client. “Our mission is to provide full service wedding and event consulting that caters to every style, personality, and budget. We pride ourselves with exceptional service, creative ideas, dependability, and unsurpassed quality.” By hiring M. Elizabeth Events to plan your special day, you can be confident that each and every detail will be handled seamlessly, freeing you to sit back and actually enjoy the festivities. Our goal is to create a lasting memory not only of the event itself, but of the entire wedding planning process. At. M. Elizabeth Events, planning exquisite events is not just our hobby, its our passion and way of life. We pride ourselves on staying abreast of trends and on the pulse of fresh concepts that we can incorporate into each event. Meghan Cease started her career in events in 2005, working for Conde Nast Publications in New York City, managing over 40 events per year. After receiving a Master of Business Administration in Marketing and Project Management, I returned to New York City, planning corporate and personal events for David Yurman, one of America’s premier jewelry designers. I have been able to use the skills developed in my corporate event planning career to develop an unforgettable wedding experience to brides all across the South. My organization skills, negotiation savvy, and appreciation for the “art” of customer ser-

Smart Skin Med Spa is known for layering their non-invasive treatments to get the very best results, and now you can have great skin at a great price. “Everyone deserves to look and feel their best so we have come up with three memberships and custom plans to help you do just that,” said Lacey Edwards. For $50 a month you will receive one Ultimate Trio Facial including a light microdermabrasion, ultrasonic facial and steam, custom Skin Medica facial mask, light hand massage and oxygen jet treatment. For $70 a month you will receive all this twice a month, which is recommend to get the best results. “We also have a membership for $120 with which you will receive a Dermawave Aquaphoresis and RFT radio frequency technology for skin tightening once a month. This combination is great because the Dermawave is no-needle mesotherapy and uses a medical grade botanical to improve the overall skin appearance and condition where the RFT will tighten and tone the skin,” Lacey said. “We can customize packages to meet your skincare needs. We offer other treatments to enhance membership packages that include the IPL intense pulse light for all over skin rejuvenation, broken capillaries and brown spots and Skin Medica Chemical Peels Illuminize, Vitalize and Rejuvenize. Smart Skin now offers Pro Lightly treatments for acne, brown spots, and it also repairs neck and facial damage. “We are the only ones in Birmingham to offer the Smooth Shapes XV. This treatment used in conjunction with the Zerona will get maximum results with weight loss and cellulite reduction. The Zerona non-invasively removes excess fat while the Smooth Shapes reduces and improves the appearance of cellulite,”

vice have been invaluable in working with vendors, staying within a budget, and creating beautiful, flawless events for clients. Every member of our staff personally understands just how stressful weddings can be. Our promise is to treat every client and their event as if it was our own. “I am confident that my clients, past and present, would say I am known for my extreme patience, calming nature, and developing a true friendship with all my clients. I value input from my clients, and will give above and beyond in order to provide the desired event,” Meghan said. To contact M. Elizabeth Events please call 205-746-2662 or visit www.melizabethevents.com

THURSDAY, JUNE 16, 2011 • 31

Lacey said. “We are the first in Birmingham to combine these two amazing machines. The results we are getting from this combination of treatments is incredible.” The treatment for these two together only takes about one hour three times a week for two weeks and that’s it. Smooth Shapes and Zerona have been featured on shows and Magazines like The Doctors, Rachel Ray, Muscle Magazine, Fitness RX, Shape Magazine, In-Touch Magazine, Oprah magazine and many more! Smart Skin is located at 32 Church Street in Crestline Village, and their number is 8718707.

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32 • THURSDAY, JUNE 16, 2011

WEDDINGS & ENGAGEMENTS

The White Room

Bella’s Bridal and Formal Bella’s Bridal and Formal is a fullservice bridal salon carrying a unique selection of bridal gowns as well as bridesmaids, mother’s dresses and evening wear. “Our staff loves what it does. This is not your average bridal shop, but who wants to be average? It is Bella’s desire to make our customers look beautiful and make sure they have fun in the process,” says owner Carol Watkins. “Our goal is to assist customers in finding a dress that truly reflects their unique style. We have a wide variety of dresses and each dress is hand-selected for its distinctive style and fine workmanship. “One of the things our customers find

Our goal is to assist customers in finding a dress that truly reflects their unique style. most surprising about our shop is that most of the gowns we sell are priced below $1,000. “Another surprising fact is that most of their gowns can be custom ordered to ensure the customer is getting exactly the right neckline, color and skirt design she wants.”

When the dress arrives, Bella’s expert alterations department is available to ensure the dress fits perfectly. “We work hard to make sure all of our brides look and feel absolutely beautiful on their wedding day. From gowns to shoes and headpieces; bridesmaid, flower girl, and mother-of-the bride dresses; and tuxedos, Bella’s hand-selects every item with the customer, specifically in mind.” Bella’s Bridal & Formal is located in the Patton Creek Shopping Center in Hoover and their phone number is 4037977.

The White Room Bridal Salon is an upscale bridal boutique located in Cahaba Heights and features Couture We d d i n g Gowns as well as Mother of the Bride/Groom and Special Occasion dresses. The unique team of mother and daughter, Carolyn, left and Cathy right, with their store dog Biscuit are proud to offer the Southern Bride Couture We d d i n g Gowns with elegant, classic and sophisticated styles. Designers featured at The White Room include: Amsale, Anne Barge, Christos, Jenny Lee, Judd Waddell, Kenneth Pool, Lea Ann Belter, Nicole Miller, Paloma Blanca, Rivini and Watters. Our Mothers/Special Occasions designers include: Rose Taft Couture and Boutique, Marisa Baratelli, Elon Michelle, Siri, Jovani, Daymor, Damianou, Montage

OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL

and Watters – Collection 20. Carolyn has been doing alterations for over 55 years and has been altering wedding gowns for over 30 years. She saw the need to bring to Birmingham designers that were not already offered in the state of Alabama. “Before I opened The White Room, I was altering mostly dresses that were purchased in Atlanta. I just wanted to offer our Birmingham brides those same choices here in their own state.” We are very proud to be exclusive to the State of Alabama with most all the lines we carry. The White Room is open TuesdaySaturday, 10 a.m.-6 p.m. and by appointment. The shop is located at 3161 Cahaba Heights Road, 970-6767

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Patton Creek Shopping Center • Suite 125 • Hoover (205) 403-7977 • www.bellasalabama.com ��

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OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL

THURSDAY, JUNE 16, 2011 • 33

WEDDINGS & ENGAGEMENTS

Mariee Ami

Birmingham Museum of Art

“For nearly 20 years, the Birmingham Museum of Art has been a highly soughtafter venue for some of the most fabulous weddings in The Magic City. The Museum hosts many kinds of events, including wedding ceremonies, receptions, bridesmaid luncheons and rehearsal dinners,” says Brynne Maccann, above. Founded in 1951, the Birmingham Museum of Art has one of the finest collections in the Southeast. More than 24,000 objects are on display and housed in the Museum. “Our beautiful space can accommodate large groups, and we offer exceptional catering services provided by A Social Affair. At the Museum, guests can enjoy the galleries and sculpture garden while celebrating with the bride and groom. If you prefer sophisticated elegance and have an appreciation for art and culture, then the Museum is the place for you.” The Birmingham Museum of Art is located at 2000 Abraham Woods Jr. Blvd, Birmingham, 35203, and its number is 254-2565.

Birmingham Zoo

The Birmingham Zoo would like to introduce Birmingham’s newest and most unique catering venue “Trails of Africa.” Come host your next wedding, company outing or family reunion at Safari Peak in “Trails of Africa.” “Book your event and enjoy an evening with the elephants” says Mindy Wald, special events coordinator at the zoo. Mindy, center, is pictured with Tiffany Fortune, left, and Kate Lipscomb. “Come and enjoy our unique venues for a wedding or rehearsal dinner. Our facilities can hold from 50 to 1,000 people,” says Mindy. “The Zoo has special touches to offer, such as greeting your guests with animals or having animals stroll through your event. “When looking for a venue it is very important to think about what is important to you and how you want your day to look and feel,” says Mindy. The Zoo is a great place to make your wedding dreams come true, from the outdoor elegance to our rustic stone house in the woods. “We feel that couples should consider the Birmingham Zoo because it is such a unique setting and makes for a very memorable location.” 2630 Cahaba Road, 397-3859

The Harbert Center

Originally known as “the building in the gray flannel suit” which was meant to suggest the make-up and attire of its well-dressed business clients, The Harbert Center still greets the city’s most influential clients during many of the area’s highly regarded gala and social affairs. As the premier and distinctive event facility in Alabama, The Harbert Center is a timeless facility with outstanding food and service, and a long standing commitment to making your event the best ever. The Harbert Center has three certified wedding specialists on staff, above from left: Jessica Atkins, Chandrel Wright-Richardson and Leslie Rives,, who are dedicated to making your wedding events unforgettable. The elegant surroundings, fine foods and attention to detail make The Harbert Center the perfect place for your bridesmaids’ luncheon, rehearsal dinner, ceremony and reception. The Harbert Center offers a perfect setting with endless capabilities in its unique architectural design and multi-purpose function. For more information please call 205226-8800 or visit website at www.theharbertcenter.com.

weddings . receptions rehearsal dinners engagement parties luncheons and more

Located in the heart of historic Mountain Brook Village, Mariee Ami introduces the wedding community to Alabama’s first of it’s kind, boutique full-service wedding planning studio. It’s name alone, Mariee Ami (Ma ree al me), French for “bride’s friend,” describes the essence of their work. Brides will discover a beautiful boutique setting coupled with a personal planner with exclusive access to the best resources for designing the day of her dreams. According to Neillie Butler and Laurie Grantham, owners, the most important aspect of a wedding is planning. “If you fail to plan, you plan to fail,” says Neillie. “I work with each bride individually to personally fulfill and suit her wedding’s every need. Every element of a wedding needs to be perfect, therefore, why not let a professional handle the details? Mariee Ami offers a variety of services that are unique to each bride. Packages range from help and consultation on the day of the ceremony, to planning every aspect of your wedding from start to finish. Open daily and appointments are encouraged but not required. The shop is located at 2404 Canterbury Road, Mountain Brook Village, 870-4205.

mariée ami a wedding planning studio

2019 Fourth Avenue North 205-226-8800 www.theharbertcenter.com

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OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL

THURSDAY, JUNE 16, 2011 • 33

WEDDINGS & ENGAGEMENTS

Mariee Ami

Birmingham Museum of Art

Birmingham Zoo

The Harbert Center

weddings . receptions rehearsal dinners engagement parties luncheons and more

mariée ami a wedding planning studio

2019 Fourth Avenue North 205-226-8800 www.theharbertcenter.com

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Lovelady, from back cover

tournaments that are comparatively close to home.” Lovelady heads toward the summer with high overall confidence in his playing level. “I’ve been working pretty hard to improve my putting,” he said, “and I think I’m hitting the fairways well. But in this game, you just have to keep working.” Two of Lovelady’s favorite local places to work are Shoal Creek and the Country Club of Birmingham’s famous West Course. “I love Shoal Creek because the greens are always in such great shape,” he said. “And the West Course is so much fun to play. I love to go out with my friends and hit the ball around there.” Lovelady was virtually born to be a golfer. His first exposure to the

game came at the age of three. “My dad had some old plastic golf balls, and I starting hitting them in the house and out in the yard,” Lovelady recalled. “Later he took me to a driving range with him, and I really enjoyed it. “I got better and better at it and started playing in tournaments when I was about nine. But it all started with those plastic balls when I was three.” When Lovelady feels the need to practice his putting, he needs to go no farther than the privacy of his own backyard: There’s a full-sized putting green behind his home. “We moved to our present house when I was in the fifth grade,” said Lovelady. “And after we moved in, my parents put a putting green in the back.” Seven years later, the novelty of having a home putting green may be past, but it still has plenty of practical uses.

Whitney, from back cover

Mountain and Whitney as an eighth grader was in the outfield,” Brown recalled. “They hit a pitch deep into the outfield. It looked like it was sure to be an extra-base hit or maybe an inside-the-park homer. “But Whitney didn’t give up. She went into a full sprint after the ball. Then Whitney leaped parallel to the ground with perfect timing and made the catch. “She looked just like Willie Mays. It was absolutely unbelievable.” Vestavia fans and foes would learn soon enough, however, that the unbelievable was

Region 6, from back cover

David Shores was released following a controversial incident in a pre-season practice session. Berguson gamely led the Jaguars to a 6-6 season and a playoff appearance, but Hoover school board officials chose Lindsey to lead the Spain Park program. Prior to coaching at Troy, Lindsey was a successful head coach at Lassiter High School in Marietta, Ga. He does, however, have a local connection. Before leaving for Lassiter, Lindsey was offensive coordinator for Rush Propst at Hoover. The good news for both Goodwin and Lassiter is that they are bright new faces at schools that are no strangers to gridiron success. The bad news is that their schools are both in Class 6A Region 6, easily the toughest league in Alabama high school football. And perhaps the worst news for the first-year coaches is that Region 6 may be tougher than ever. Of course, everything starts with Hoover, which will be looking to make its fourth consecutive appearance in the state championship game. The only problem

THURSDAY, JUNE 16, 2011 • 35

SPORTS

OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL

“I probably don’t use it as much as I should,” said Lovelady, laughing. “It’s always a reminder that I could be practicing. But it’s kind of a social thing, too. My friends like to come over and putt on it. “What makes the green fun is that I don’t have to get dressed up to practice on it. I could go out there in my pajamas if I wanted to do so.” Lovelady has set high goals for himself as he looks toward his college career as a Crimson Tide golfer. “I’d like to make an impact in my freshman year,” he said. “I hope to make the top five and help us win tournaments.” As for his academic future, Lovelady – a fine student – isn’t quite so sure. “I really don’t know yet,” he said. “I signed up for business, but I know lots of people change their majors. So we’ll see what happens.” Tom Lovelady may be undecided

routine for Larsen. In four years, almost everyone who knew Larsen had a favorite story of her athletic prowess. Larsen starred in both softball and basketball and was the 2007 Over the Mountain Journal Girl Athlete of the Year. Ironically, Larsen grew up as an Auburn fan but became enamored with Alabama after attending the Crimson Tide’s summer softball camps. So when Bama coach Patrick Murphy offered Larsen a scholarship at the beginning of her junior year at Vestavia , she jumped at the opportunity. “Once I decided on Alabama, that was it,” Larsen recalled. “I didn’t want to go through a long recruiting process.” Larsen made an immediate impression in her freshman year at the Capstone. She started 57 games at six different positions, spending

from Hoover’s standpoint is that it has lost in the final contest two of the last three years. Coach Josh Niblett missed out on the title with a painfully close 7-6 loss to Daphne last season and probably has the talent to get over the hump and earn the blue trophy this fall. Certainly, the Bucs will be favored to win their region. As always, Vestavia Hills will be one of Hoover’s toughest roadblocks to the championship throne. Coach Buddy Anderson enters his 34th season as the Rebels’ head coach, which is a story in and of itself. A coach doesn’t last anywhere for 34 years without doing a lot of things right both on and off the field, and if there’s one coach in Metro Birmingham who has the Bucs’ number, it’s Anderson. The Hoover-Vestavia game will be a pivotal battle in the region standings – but what’s new about that? Mountain Brook put together a strong 11-3 mark last season, which looks even more impressive when you consider that two of those losses came against Hoover. The Spartans are similar to Homewood in the sense that they, too, are among the smallest schools in Class 6A.

Vestavia’s Christy Nelson Signs with Marion

Softball standout Christy Nelson recently signed a scholarship with Marion Military Institute. Christy is a four-year letterman at VHHS. . Attending her signing were, from, from left: Ron Nelson (Dad), Christy Nelson and Cheryl Nelson (Mom). Standing: Terry Nelson (Stepmom), Laura Casey (coach), Jennifer Brown (coach) and Mark Brooks (coach).

about his academic major, but when it comes to golf, there’s no doubt: He

the lion’s share of her time at second base or right field. Larsen hit .270 and nine home runs to help her team reach the WCWS. As a sophomore, she was just as impressive, hitting .294 with 10 home runs and helping the Tide reach yet another WCWS. Alabama fell just short of another World Series bid in Larsen’s junior year of 2010, but she hit .318 with 15 homers and 57 RBIs and was named to SEC All-Tournament team. Her most dramatic home run may have come in the Super Regional finale against Hawaii, where Larsen hit a three-run homer to give the Crimson Tide the lead in the sixth inning. But the Warriors battled back to take an upset victory and end Alabama’s season. With her athletic eligibility completed, Larsen still has one more semester of college to finish before earning a degree in public rela-

But even with that disadvantage, Mountain Brook would have more region titles – if it were aligned in a different region. Coach Chris Yeager says he likes the tougher competition of Region 6, and Mountain Brook offers plenty of competition of its own. Oak Mountain struggled to a 2-8 mark last season with only one win in region play. On the bright side, Coach Jeff Harris may know as well as anyone what it takes to be successful in this league. Harris played for Homewood under Gann and coached at Mountain Brook under Yeager. Non-Over the Mountain schools Pelham and Thompson round out Region 6 again, but neither can be dismissed easily. The Warriors have elevated assistant

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wants to continue on the championship path.

tions. After that, she may go after a master’s degree. “For the first time, I’ll just be going to school and not playing sports,” said Larsen, laughing. “I don’t know what I’m going to with myself, having all that time.” Larsen will probably relish every minute, however, because she says her experience at Alabama was one of the highlights of her life. “There’s no way to describe how much I enjoyed every aspect of being at Alabama and having the chance to play softball here,” she said. “I truly wouldn’t trade my time here for anything, and I can’t imagine doing anything else. It’s been an incredible ride.” As much as Whitney Larsen enjoyed being at Alabama, it’s a good bet that Crimson Tide softball enjoyed having Larsen even more.

Bruce Hill, a former head coach at Clay-Chalkville, to run their program as they try to rebound from a 1-9 record in 2010. Just like Homewood’s Goodwin and Spain Park’s Lindsey, Hill will see that the more Region 6 changes, the tougher it gets.

Congrats to Smylie...

Over the weekend Vestavia Hills’ Smylie Kaufman won the

95th State Amateur Championship by two shots at FarmLinks Golf Club. Kaufman, a rising sophomore on the golf team at LSU, won in dramatic fashion as he headed into the final round of play five strokes off the lead. He shot a 67 to win the tournament by two strokes and his total of 272, 16under-par score ranks as one of the best 72-hole performances in tournament history.

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Basketball Camp

Birmingham-Southern College July 11-14 • July 25-28

Camp Features:

• Individual Fundamental Instruction • 5 on 5 Games • 3 on 3 Tournaments • Free Throw Competition

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CALL 226-4889

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OVER THE MOUNTAIN

JOU RNAL THURSDAY, JUNE 16, 2011

Sports

Whitney’s History Former Rebel Star Concludes College Career BY LEE DAVIS

JOURNAL SPORTS WRITER

hitney Larsen will be the first to tell you that the last four years of her life have gone by in a flash. The Vestavia Hills graduate just completed her career as an AllAmerican softball player at the University of Alabama and is still coming to grips with the fact that she’s played her final game in a crimson and white uniform. It was truly a case of time flying when you’re having fun. “I can’t believe it’s all over,” said Larsen, when contacted last weekend. “Everything went by so fast. When I came to Alabama, all I wanted to do was contribute and help us win a national championship. There was never really

a thought about any individual honors I might receive.” The Crimson Tide never earned a national championship in Larsen’s four years, but it came close. Alabama reached the Women’s College World Series in Oklahoma City three times during her tenure. Larsen’s final game came on June 6 when the Tide was eliminated from the Series by conference rival Florida. Despite the eventual defeat, Larsen turned in some of the best performances of her career in Alabama’s four-game WCWS run. She batted .400 and hit a home run, a triple and three RBIs. Larsen also had an on-base percentage of .455, while gaining a position on the all-WCWS team. While Larsen will leave Tuscaloosa without a national title ring, she doesn’t have any regrets. “It would be wrong to say that it was frustrating not to win a national championship,” she explained. “Only the very best teams even make it to the World Series. So if a team doesn’t play its best

game every time out, it’s going to lose because the competition is so strong. “We were one of the last three teams standing this year, and that’s pretty good.” By any account, Larsen’s senior year was better than pretty good. She batted .351 with 14 home runs and 64 RBIs, leading Alabama to a 53-11 record and earning Easton All-American honors. Her incredible versatility was reflected by the fact that at one time or another as a Crimson Tider, she played almost every position

Love of the Game State Golf Champ Looks to Future BY LEE DAVIS

JOURNAL SPORTS WRITER

om Lovelady is a modest young man, but even he would have to admit that his senior year at Mountain Brook

Tom Lovelady’s recent state title in golf was his second in four years, as he also was low medalist at the state tournament in his freshman season of 2008. turned out to be something special. For starters, he was the low medalist in the Class 6A golf championship. Lovelady put together rounds of 67-72 in the two-day event at Mobile’s Magnolia Grove’s Fall Course to

finish three-under par and take the title by one stroke over teammate Stewart Jolly. His individual crown was his second in four years, as he also was low medalist at the state tournament in his freshman season of 2008.

Vestavia’s Odom Named to GSAC Freshman of the Year. See page 34. Larsen turned in some of the best performances of her career in Alabama’s fourgame WCWS run. She batted .400 and hit a home run, a triple and three RBIs. Larsen also had an onbase percentage of .455, while gaining a position on the all-WCWS team. on the field. On Alabama’s official softball website, Larsen’s position is listed simply as “utility.” Larsen’s prodigious athletic talents first came to public attention when she qualified for the Vestavia varsity as a mere eighth grader in 2003. Jennifer Brown, who recently retired after a long and successful tenure as the Lady Rebels’ softball coach, remembers the moment she knew Larsen would be something special. “I think we were playing Oak

See Whitney, page 35 But even more importantly from his standpoint, Lovelady led the Spartans to their first team golf state title since 1997. “It took us four years to win the championship, and that’s what means the most to me,” said Lovelady, shortly after the victory in May. “We always had the talent, but this year we were able to put it together. “In high school golf, the team championship is the most important, and it was very special to me to finally get the big trophy in my senior year.” His final year of golf at Mountain Brook was also highlighted by victories in the Country Club of Mobile High School Invitational, the Class 6A Regional Championship at Ol’ Colony and the Class 6A Substate Championship at Cider Ridge. Needless to say, Lovelady has a busy summer ahead. He just got back from a trip with friends to the Virgin Islands and is set for some intense golf competition before heading to the University of Alabama in August. His schedule will include playing in several tournaments throughout the Southeast, highlighted perhaps by U.S. Amateur qualifying, to take place at The Montgomery Country Club. “I’m going to be active, but I don’t want to burn out,” he said. “So that’s why I’m playing in

See Lovelady, page 35

Lee Davis

Lobster Trap: Despite Coaching Changes, Region 6 as Tough as Ever

f you’ve been enjoying a week at the beach, or just lying in a hammock enjoying fresh lemonade, I have news for you. Football season is just around the corner. Yes, believe it or not, we’re only about seven weeks away from the sounds of whistles and the sweat of two-a-days, as fall practice is coming sooner than you think – and certainly sooner than most football players would like it to come. And for 2011, change will be in the air as two new coaches take the helm at Over the Mountain schools. But as the old saying goes, the more things change, the more they stay the same. Perhaps the biggest change will be at Homewood, where Doug Goodwin moves in as coach of the Patriots. Goodwin comes to Lakeshore Drive after an ultra-successful run at Russellville, where he won 84 percent of his games. The new coach is also Homewood’s first hire from outside its system since Gerald Gann was brought in from the old Berry High School in 1979. Goodwin follows the popular Dickey Wright, who held the job for five years. Under Wright, Homewood – one of Alabama’s smallest Class 6A schools – was competitive with much larger schools in its region but couldn’t quite equal the glory that the program enjoyed in Class 5A. Goodwin will have a similar challenge. The other big change will come at Spain Park, which welcomes its fifth coach in only 10 years of gridiron competition. Chip Lindsey, the former quarterback coach at Troy, succeeds interim coach Ben Berguson. Berguson took over after

See Region 6, page 35