Otmj Thursday, July 16, 2015
over the mountain journal ❖ otmj.com
social
sports
rebel review Vestavia Mascot Is Center of Controversy at School Board Session
Journal file photo by Lee Walls Jr.
More than 175 Vestavia Hills residents, parents, students and alumni of the city’s high school attended a board of education work session July 8 to voice their opinions on whether the high school should dump the Rebel mascot. Those who favor ditching the mascot say it’s racially insensitive and reflects negatively on Vestavia Hills. “All the excellent things we do should not be overshadowed by symbolism,” said Kira Fonteneau, a Vestavia Hills resident and parent. “Changing the mascot makes us look like the wonderful community that we are.” Others say the mascot is a source of school pride and community spirit that has outlasted past attachments to racial injustice. “What some believe to be a symbol of oppression, hatred and racism has been transformed by the students of Vestavia Hills into a symbol of academic merit, unwavering school spirit, success in sports, philanthropy and togetherness,” said Palmer Mordecai, a recent Vestavia Hills High School graduate. Those who spoke in favor of the Rebel mascot included two black students at the high school, the school’s first black Rebel Man, former high school principal Cas McWaters and State Sen. Jabo Waggoner, R-Vestavia. Those who urged the board to change the mascot included a former student, a member of the city’s chamber of commerce and two professors at the University of Montevallo, who are also Vestavia Hills residents. Those who spoke for the Rebel mascot asked the superintendent and school board to let students at the high school vote whether to keep or change the mascot. Vestavia resident and former parks and recreation board member Steve Bendall said the high school student body is in a better position to judge the issue because it’s their See rebel, page 11
inside
City-centric Festival Sloss Furnaces event is tailored for Birmingham. about town Page 4
Tomato Relish Southern favorite is in the spotlight at first-ever event. food Page 24 A Tasteful Brew Andrew Pharo incorporates art into his Mountain Brook home. home Page 20
Journal photos by William C. Singleton III
By William C. Singleton III
2 • Thursday, July 16, 2015
OTMJ Brings Home Nine First Place Editorial Awards
The staff at Over the Mountain Journal is pleased to announce that we have received 20 awards in the 2015 Better Newspaper Contest presented by the Alabama Press Association. Nine of those are first place editorial awards — more than any other newspaper in our category in the state. The first place awards were in the following categories: Best Sports Page, Best Spot News Photo, Best Photo Essay, Best Sports Photo, Best Local Economic Coverage, Best Feature Photo, Best Special Section, Best Human Interest Column and Best Humorous Column. Over the Mountain Journal also took home second place awards in the General Excellence category, the Best Lifestyle and Family Pages category, the Best Presswork category, the Best Sports Feature category and the Best Use of Photographs/Editorial Content category as well as third place awards in the Best Local Sports Column category, the Best Sports Single Event category, the Best News Photo category, the Best Sports Feature Story category, the Best Local Education Coverage category and the Best Editorial Page/Section category. In the 2015 APA Advertising Contest, Over the Mountain Journal took home two first place awards for the Regularly Scheduled Special Section and the Best In-Paper Promotion of Newspaper categories as well as third place in the Best Single Ad 1/2 Page & Under - Color category. “I’m very pleased and proud of our staff for doing so well in this year’s Better Newspaper Contest competition,” Maury Wald, publisher and editor, said. “There are some really strong newspapers in our category and to “Showers of Blessings” photo by bring home the most editorial first place awards is very Lee Walls Jr. won first place for Best Feature Photo. exciting.”
in this issue About Town 3 people 8 news 10 social 16 home 20
FOOD 24 weddings 27 schools 28 sports 32
On otmj.com
There’s so much happening in the Over the Mountain area, we can’t fit it all in the paper! Visit www.otmj.com for more stories and photos or follow us @otmj_life.
OVER THE MOUNTAIN
JOU RNAL
OVER THE MOUNTAIN Journal
murphy’s law
Watch Your Back, Samantha!
or was the poor child blindsided? Did My last batch of catalogs brought they tell Caroline they were unhappy a beautiful, full-color offering from with her work? Did they give her a American Girl. I was excited because chance to turn things around? Has I now have two granddaughters who American Girl considered the ripple will soon be leaving the squeaky toy effect of their decision? What will phase and be ready for a doll with happen to Caroline’s family shipyard? actual clothes. Will all those people be out of work? American Girl dolls are well off in What about Uncle Aaron’s farm? I that department. They have pj’s and shudder to think what will happen to swimsuits and sparkly vests that crossCaroline’s pet calf, Garnet. body zip, glasses and headbands and Apparently, this is not the first time velveteen purses. You can purchase this archive nonsense has happened. luggage to tote it all home to their Caroline will be joining Molly and trundle bed and teacart and sound-surIvy and Marie-Grace Gardner. I’m round chair. Years ago, I accompanied sure they each told their friends they a grandmother friend to the American Sue Murphy were leaving to spend more time with Girl flagship store in Chicago, where their families, but we all know what the dolls can go to shop and have really happened. their hair done and take actual tea What about the years of service with their happy owners. It was all the poor dears rendered? Does that great fun. ‘I’m sure they each told count for nothing? If you’re thinking of American their friends they were Brave goodbye my foot. Girl as a Barbie clone, you’re wrong. First of all, there’s no leaving to spend more Caroline is being pushed out to room for flashier models. Ken lurking in the background. time with their families, make The company’s new phase is called Secondly, each American Girl but we all know what Truly Me, a program in which little doll has a special name, a detailed girls create dolls who look just like backstory, a personal philosophy really happened.’ themselves, hair color, eye color, of life. Yes, the company produces jazzy new clothes. There’s even a more than one of each model, but new line of pets, although I noticed the dolls are offered as distinct indithat none of them was a calf. viduals that your child takes home Yes, a doll that looks just like you would be the ultito be part of the family. mate selfie, and each one of those little girls is special, So, I was more than a bit surprised when the but they need to realize that the person next to them is catalog’s back cover featured a picture of a beautiful special, too. Kids might have learned a few things from little blonde doll with the caption, “Brave Goodbye… Caroline. Have they outfoxed enemy soldiers or surSay farewell to Caroline before she moves into the vived an icy dip in Lake Ontario? Probably not. American Girl Archives.” I’m sure American Girl will give Caroline a big Archives? What kind of trick was this? While send off, wheel in a cake and present her with a tiny Caroline might, indeed, be brave about her goodbye gold watch. She’ll stand there smiling like she has for (Her mantra is “Believe in yourself.”), I hardly think all those loyal years, wearing her woolen spencer jacket the move was her idea. This was forced retirement, my and wide-brimmed hat. friends, and I’ve reached an age at which that really All I can say is…watch your back, Kit and Addy gets my goat. and Samantha. You could be next. ❖ Was there any indication the decision was coming
over the Mountain Views
Will you be reading “Go Set a Watchman” by Harper Lee?
July 16, 2015
Publisher & Editor: Maury Wald Features Writer & Copy Editor Donna Cornelius Staff Writers: Kaitlin Candelaria, Emily Williams Editorial Assistant: Stacie Galbraith Sports: Lee Davis Contributors: Susan Murphy, June Mathews, William C. Singleton III, Emil Wald, Marvin Gentry, Lee Walls Jr., Bryan Bunch, Liz Ellaby Advertising Sales: Suzanne Wald, Julie Trammell Edwards, Tommy Wald Intern: Tyler Waldrep Vol. 25, No. 13
Opinion/Contents
Over The Mountain Journal is a suburban bi-weekly newspaper delivered to Mountain Brook, Homewood, Vestavia Hills, Hoover and North Shelby County areas. 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 2015 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.
“Yes. It will indeed be very interesting to see how Harper Lee envisions Scout’s full transition to adulthood from those late childhood revelations.” Sue DeBrecht Director, Emmet O’Neal Library
“I’m not sure I’m ready to read the new book. From what I’ve heard, the beloved Atticus has done a 180-degree turn in the book. I would hate to ruin my wonderful memories of ‘To Kill a Mockingbird.’” Deborah Fout Director, Homewood Public Library
“I do plan to read it and am hopefully near the top of the waiting list for the eBook! After reading the reviews, I am preparing myself for a book that reflects the time it’s set in and shakes the image of Atticus Finch that I have.” Patricia Guarino Assistant Director. Hoover Public Library
“As I have read that the book places Mr. Finch in a less ‘saintly’ light, I’m a bit disappointed, but I do realize that no person is perfect; we are all flawed. Just as with ‘To Kill a Mockingbird’, I hope this book will offer an enlightening, life changing story.” Taneisha Young Tucker Director, Vestavia Hills Library in the Forest
July 16-30
annual Conference for Caregivers is from 9 a.m.-4 p.m. For more information, call 871-7970 or visit www. alzca.org. VESTAVIA HILLS
Concert in the Forest Vestavia Hills Library in the Forest This year’s Adult Concert Series will feature Rollin’ in the Hay from 6:30-7:30 p.m. at the library’s amphitheater. This outdoor concert is free and open to the public. Guests are invited to bring chairs and blankets. For more information, visit www.vestavialibrary.org or call 9780155.
Thurs., July 16 HOOVER
The Birmingham Seven Hoover Public Library At 6:30 p.m. the straight-ahead jazz septet will perform at the Library Plaza. This event is free and open to the public. For more information, visit www.hooverlibrary.org or call 444-7800.
Thurs., July 16 HOMEWOOD
Iron Giant Percussion Homewood Public Library Local contemporary percussion ensemble Iron Giant Percussion will perform from 6-7 p.m. The group uses traditional instruments as well as found objects to stretch the limits of sound-making. This event is free. For more information, visit www. homewoodpubliclibrary.org or call 3326600.
Fri., July 17 HOMEWOOD
Alzheimer’s in Alabama: Present and Future Dawson Baptist Church Alzheimer’s of Central Alabama’s
Thursday, July 16, 2015 • 3
About Town
OVER THE MOUNTAIN Journal
at the Safari and Kudzoo Cafes. For more information, call 879-0409 or visit www.birminghamzoo.com.
Sun., July 19 BIRMINGHAM
Opening Reception for Layers of Meaning Birmingham Public Library Paintings by Birmingham artist Matthew Mayes will be on exhibit in the Fourth Floor Gallery from July until September 3. This opening reception
will be held from 2:30-5 p.m. in the board room on the fourth floor of the East Building. This event is free. For more information, visit www.bplonline. org or call 933-7776.
Wed., July 22
education and performance, hosts a concert honoring the heroes of music history. Local musicians will transform themselves into music legends like Elton John and Aretha Franklin. Admission is $15 and the doors open at 7 p.m. For more information, visit www. girlsrockbham.org.
BIRMINGHAM
The Phoneys Saturn Birmingham Girls Rock Birmingham, a nonprofit organization whose mission is to empower young women through music
Sat., July 25 HOMEWOOD
Sidewalk Sale Downtown Homewood
July 17 and July 24 HOOVER
Friday Flicks Veterans Park This outdoor movie series will continue with a showing of Disney’s “Maleficent” on July 17 and “Dolphin Tale 2” on July 24. Guests are encouraged to arrive as early as 6:30 p.m. and the movie with begin at dusk. This event is free. For more information, call 444-7765.
Sat., July 18 BIRMINGHAM
Ice Cream Day Birmingham Zoo As a part of their 60th Anniversary, the zoo will serve free Mayfield ice cream and hand out 60th Anniversary buttons, while supplies last. Sixty cent ice cream sandwiches will also be available all day
3129 paradise acres Beautifully updated home on Paradise Acres in the heart of Hoover!
㈀ 㔀 刀䄀䴀 㔀
䰀漀眀攀猀琀 倀爀椀挀攀猀 䜀甀愀爀愀渀琀攀攀搀℀
View of the lake, lots of privacy and very convenient! Open floor plan! $249,900
For more information go to JamesHarwell.com
James Harwell
President, Bham Assoc. of Realtors
Over the Mountain Office 1220 Alford Avenue • 205.281.4731
䠀漀漀瘀攀爀䄀甀琀漀䴀愀氀氀⸀挀漀洀 簀 㠀㔀㔀ⴀ䠀攀礀ⴀ䠀漀漀瘀攀爀 㘀㈀㐀 䴀漀渀琀最漀洀攀爀礀 䠀眀礀⸀ 䠀漀漀瘀攀爀Ⰰ 䄀䰀 ㌀㔀㈀㘀 䈀愀猀攀搀 漀渀 琀栀攀 爀攀最椀猀琀爀愀琀椀漀渀 搀愀琀愀 昀爀漀洀 ㈀ ⴀ㈀ 㐀⸀ 䐀愀琀愀 猀漀甀爀挀攀㨀 䔀砀瀀攀爀椀愀渀 䄀甀琀漀洀漀琀椀瘀攀⸀
4 • Thursday, July 16, 2015
About Town
City-centric Festival
By Emily Williams
Sloss Furnaces Event Is Tailored for Birmingham
St. Paul and the Broken Bones are scheduled to perform at the Sloss Music & Arts Festival this weekend.
were in Europe, some were in California, some were recording. We ended up with this combination that were willing to say yes based on a number of factors.” Organizers said they’re happy with the result: a lineup of 30 alternative bands varying in subgenres. “We very consciously wanted the festival to reflect the lifestyle of Birmingham and Alabama,” Weinberger said. Because Birmingham is a city in transition, Weinberger said the approach to the festival has been to incorporate more refined elements to suit the “foodie culture” that has emerged in the last 10 years. “The people that like this music have expectations,” Weinberger said. “People that like Modest Mouse, The Avett Brothers and St. Paul -- all of the bands we have -- have expectations within
For one day only, beginning at 9 a.m., representatives from over 30 stores in downtown Homewood and Edgewood will line the sidewalks on 18th Street and Soho. Participating stores will offer price reductions from 20 to 70 percent off of select merchandise. For more information, visit www. homewoodchamber.org. MOUNTAIN BROOK
Fri., July 24 BIRMINGHAM
Funky Monkey Regions Field The Junior Board of Camp SmileA-Mile will hold their fourth annual fundraiser from 6-11 p.m. The event will feature a live and silent auction, cash bar and hors d’oeuvres. Complimentary valet parking will be provided on 1st Avenue South. Tickets are $50 and can be purchased online at www.campsam. org. For more information, contact Savannah Lanier at savannah. lanier@campsam.org.
we have contracted with a national concessionaire who specializes in upscale festival food,” Weinberger said. “They source from local farmers.” “The food offerings will be more imaginative than just something you see at a state fair,” Weinberger said. Guests can visit booths featuring art, handmade
‘We put an awful lot of time into piecing this festival together, and we hope that the Birmingham community comes out and experiences it.’ Gary Weinberger
Photo special to the Journal
Three years ago, Gary Weinberger, president of Red Mountain Entertainment, and his staff began working on a music and arts event that would fill the festival void in Birmingham left by previous city festivals that have come and gone. Red Mountain Entertainment is not new to the festival scene. Its ongoing festivals include Tennessee’s Memphis in May, Bayfest in Mobile, Riverfest in Little Rock, Ark., and Top of the Hops Beer Festivals. The company has collaborated with Knoxville’s AC Entertainment, the brains behind the Bonnaroo Music and Arts Festival, and Venue Management, Inc. to design and create the Sloss Music and Arts Festival July 18 and 19. With hard work, some prudent partnerships and a love of Birmingham, Red Mountain Entertainment has created a music and arts festival dedicated to honoring the lifestyle of those who call “The Ham” home. “Having grown up here, (Birmingham) is in this transformational phase right now, it seems,” said Jay Wilson, Red Mountain Entertainment partner and promoter. Wilson said that the revitilization can be seen through the emergence of multiple craft breweries, the addition of Regions Field and the transformation of Railroad Park. “For us to be able to do a festival with this caliber of acts, it feels like it’s time in this city,” Wilson said. “That’s what I’m excited to see, and the city deserves something this big.” The star power at the festival includes wellknown alternative bands such as The Avett Brothers, Modest Mouse and Band of Horses as well as indie acts like Purity Ring, Judah and the Lion, and Cathedrals. The festival will also feature a few acts with connections to Birmingham and Alabama. Local band Leigh Bains III and the Glory Fires will perform as will the increasingly acclaimed St. Paul and the Broken Bones, a favorite of Larry King. One of the festival’s three stages will feature Hoover High School student Kenny Lofton. After the initial lineup was announced, Lofton and his friends began a social media campaign to get the young musician a slot. “Out of the 30 bands performing, we probably looked at 200 bands,” Weinberger said. “Some
OVER THE MOUNTAIN Journal
Otey’s Fest 25 Otey’s Tavern To celebrate 25 years of operation, Otey’s will host a music festival, benefiting the Phoenix Club of Birmingham - an organization that supports the Boys and Girls Clubs of Central Alabama. Gates will open at 5 p.m. Tickets are $20 in advance and can be purchased online at www. oteysfest.com and at Otey’s Tavern or Taco Mama in Crestline Village. For more information, visit www.oteysfest. com BIRMINGHAM
Sturrock’s Chirstmas in July Old Car Heaven In honor of Emily Sturrock, who passed from a heart attack in 2014, this inaugural event will raise funds for the Children’s of Alabama’s Pediatric and
their lifestyle. Part of our mission was trying to figure out how we were going to marry the lifestyle part of this festival with music.” That mission led to collaborations with local businesses to create a unique food and art experience that will play alongside the musical performances. “We’re working with Trim Tab. It’s kind of the showcase local brewery,” Wilson said. Trim Tab has collaborated with Star Hill Brewery in Virginia to create a signature craft beer specifically for the festival. “They are literally making a beer from scratch just for us,” Wilson said. “They aren’t just duplicating a recipe.” Upscale concessions options will be available to all festival guests. “Unlike other events that have been here,
Sat., July 25 HOMEWOOD
Carroll Weekend Basketball Clinic John Carroll Catholic High School Birmingham native, John Carroll Catholic alumnus and Atlanta Hawks player DeMarre Carroll will host a basketball clinic in celebration of the Carroll Weekend, presented by Carroll Family Foundation. Youth ages 7-16 are invited to learn basketball skills from noon-3 p.m. Registration is $65. In addition, a back to school block party and meet and greet will take place at Memorial Park from 4-8 p.m. For more information, call 322-4197 ext. 107.
jewelry, posters and prints. There will also be hands-on iron pouring demonstrations by members of the Sloss Metal Arts Program. “We have got the most beautiful backdrop in the world in Sloss Furnaces, which is a historic national landmark,” Weinberger said. “Lighting it properly at night gives us the magic we are looking for along with some other bells and whistles.” Wilson said organizers will let Sloss Furnaces stand on its own. “A lot of festival sites just go into a field, and they’ve got to bring in a decor team to make it fancy,” said Wilson. “Well, this place is already fancy.” The festival’s model was built to last. While planning the festival, Wilson said, organizers kept in mind future opportunities that may be affected by their decisions. “I would say 75 percent of our decisions were made looking into the future,” he said. “We put an awful lot of time into piecing this festival together, and we hope that the Birmingham community comes out and experiences it,” Weinberger said. “It will be a fun weekend to have in downtown Birmingham, which was one of the first things that we said we wanted to do. We wanted to produce a festival in downtown Birmingham.” Tickets range from single-day general admission to VIP weekend passes and pricing begins at $85. For more information and a full lineup of musical performances, visit www.slossfest. com. ❖
Congenital Heart Center from 7-11 p.m. Dinner will be provided by Ashley Mac’s, Bar 31 and Rogue Tavern. Tickets are $30 and are available at www.give. childrensal.org/christmasinjuly. CALERA
Wild West Day Heart of Dixie Railroad Museum The Museum journeys back to the wild west with a themed train robbery. The ride will last one and a half hours and ride times are 10 a.m., 1 p.m. and 3 p.m. Guests are asked to arrive one hour prior to departure time in order to pick up tickets and get in line. Tickets are $12 for ages 2-11 and $17 for ages 12 and up. For more information, visit www.hodrrm.org or call 668-3435.
Sun., July 26 HOOVER
DAR Membership Workshop Hoover Public Library Women 18 and older who are interested in joining the Lily of the Cahaba Chapter of the National Society Daughters of the American Revolution are invited to attend a workshop in Meeting Rooms A and B from 3-5 p.m.
Sun., July 26 HOOVER
The Matchcoats Hoover Public Library At 2:30 p.m. the country-blues and folk duo will perform at the Library Plaza. This event is free and open to the public. For more information, visit www.hooverlibrary. org or call 444-7800.
Potential members must provide proof of lineal, blood descent from a patriot ancestor. For more information, email Shelby Bailey at robert_bailey1@yahoo. com.
Tues., July 28 Dixie’s Pet Loss Support Group Homewood Public Library This grief support group, sponsored by the Greater Birmingham Humane Society, will take place from 5:30-6:30 p.m. in Room 106. Participation in the workshop is free. Reservations are requested due to limited space. To make a reservation, contact Mary-Grace Wilson at mawilson@gbhs.org or call 942-1211.
Thurs., July 30 BIRMIGHAM
Birmingham, will begin at 6 p.m. The evening will include a cocktail hour, seated dinner and a production performed by BBBS along with ArtPlay. For more information, visit www. anightofbigstars.com.
Thurs., Aug. 6
HOMEWOOD
BIRMINGHAM
Fenders and Fireflies Old Car Heaven The Easter Seals of Birmingham will host their fourth annual event featuring music, catering by Cocina Superior, live and silent auctions and craft beer and liquor tastings by Cahaba Brewing and HIVE Beverages. Event proceeds benefit the Easter Seals’ efforts to improve the lifestyle of children and adults with special needs in Central Alabama. For more information, visit www.eastersealsbham.org or call 3142187.
“New Year, New You” Reveal Party Iron City L.I.F.E Fitness and Children’s of Alabama will reveal the 2015 “New Year, New You” winner, Liz Aldridge after six months of fitness and hard work. The event begins at 6 p.m. and includes music, food from Happy Catering and a silent auction with proceeds benefitting the Children’s Center for Weight Management. Tickets are $20 in advance and can be purchased at www. ironcitybham.com. For more information, visit www.lifefitnessbham.com/newyou/.
BIRMINGHAM
Picasso Pets The Harbert Center Hand in Paw’s 15th annual fundraiser will showcase a silent and live auction including one-of-a-kind pet paintings from 6-9 p.m. The event will include hors d’oeuvres, specialty drinks and a seated dinner. Tickets are $150 and can be purchased at www.picassopets.com.
MOUNTAIN BROOK
Boiling N’ Bragging Otey’s Tavern For the seventh year, Rotary District 6860 is hosting a football kick-off party and low country boil from 6-9 p.m. to benefit the Critical Care Transport program at Children’s of Alabama. Guests are encouraged to wear their team colors. Tickets are $25 in advance and $30 at the door. Children ages 10 and younger get in for free. To register, visit www.boilingandbragging.org. ❖
Grill!
To: From: Date:
OUR 118 YEAR TH
BIRMINGHAM TRUNK
Luggage Business Cases Leather goods gifts
Mon.-Sat. 10-5 2712 19th Street South, hoMewood 870-0971
Ken Over The Mountain Journal, PHONE: 205-823-9646 FAX: 205-824-1246 Jan. 2015
This is your AD PrOOF from the OvEr THE MOuNTAi Jan. 15, 2015 issue. Please fax approval or chan
Please make sure all information is correct, including
Please initial and fax back within 24
Brooke Wahl (far left) with her grandmother Charlotte Donald (seated) and mother Keke Donald, three generations of Realtors now part of the ARC Realty family.
Sat., Aug. 1
if we have not heard from you by 5 pm of the Friday before the press date, your ad
Thank you for your prompt atte
Realtor Brooke Wahl: “I haven’t done any of this on my own.”
BIRMINGHAM
A Night of Big Stars The Florentine This fundraiser, benefitting Big Brothers Big Sisters of Greater
AnniversAry sAle! Through July 31st
Save 10% to 50% On our huge selection of furniture, rugs, accessories, glassware, china, jewelry and linens!
Date:
Sat., Aug. 15
It's tIme to
Save The date
To: From:
Thursday, July 16, 2015 • 5
About Town
OVER THE MOUNTAIN Journal
That Brooke Wahl would succeed as a Realtor doesn’t surprise anyone in her family. “I took her to work with me when she was a little girl,” says Charlotte Donald, Brooke’s grandmother, a second generation Birmingham Realtor, the daughter of Nelson Weaver, an industry pioneer in the 1950s. “At the age of seven, Brooke was answering the phone in our office and transferring calls, riding around town with me and unlocking homes for Open Houses,” says Charlotte. “But her tenacity was most apparent when she grilled me with questions: ‘Why hasn’t this house sold? Why this sales price? Why does this agent have more listings than you?’” Brooke’s mother Keke Donald, also a successful Birmingham Realtor, sees her daughter’s genuine interest in helping others as the key to her growing business. “Brooke’s husband is a UAB surgical resident and so she’s plugged into that community,” says Keke, who supports Brooke with behind-the-scenes details, managing technology and staging homes. “She loves helping new residents discover fun things about our hometown, acting as an ambassador and a concierge.” Clients looking to sell a home throughout the city have also discovered Brooke’s track record. Sold signs go up almost as quickly as for-sale signs. Brooke realizes she’s benefitted from great role models. “My grandparents and my mother have demonstrated how serving others, helping people find a home, is a rewarding career.” Brooke, along with her grandmother and mother, recently joined ARC Realty. Founder and Chairman Tommy Brigham is enthusiastic about what they bring to his company. “In Brooke, I see the best of a new generation of Realtors.” “What else would you do in our family?” asks Charlotte. “This is a new season for us: Brooke is the out-front agent, a natural people-person. Her mother and I get to play supporting roles, which means I have time to play with my great-granddaughter. She’ll probably be answering the phone in our office in a few years, too.”
Mike Over The Mountain Journal, PHONE: 205-823-9646 FAX: 205-824-1246 June 2014 This is your AD PrOOF from the OvEr THE MOuNTAiN JOurNAl for the
A HANNA June 12, 2014 issue. Please fax approval or changes to 824-1246. ANTiquE MAll
Please make sure all information is correct, including address and phone number!
2424 7th Avenue South • 323-6036
MON-SAT 10:00-5:00
Relationship Company 4274 Cahaba Heights Court, Suite 200 Birmingham, AL 35243 205.969.8910
Major Credit Cards & Layaways Accepted Please initial and fax back within 24 hours. Brooke Wahl • (205) 447-1704 if we have not heard from you by 5 pm of the Friday before the press date, your ad will run as is. We print the paper Monday.
Thank you for your prompt attention.
www.arcrealtyco.com
6 • Thursday, July 16, 2015
About Town
‘We’re Mother Nature’s real estate agents. Through our partnership projects, we’ve been able to protect over 10,000 acres of land.’
Call of the Wild Freshwater Land Trust Preserves, Protects Natural Beauty
By Kaitlin Candelaria
Tapawingo Springs Preserve, Pinson
POWER TO
BUILD DREAMS
Anyone who meets staff members of the Freshwater Land Trust can see their passion for conservation and nature. On a recent hike through the 65-acre Homewood Forest Preserve, Zac Napier, land steward for the nonprofit, pointed out different types of blueberry bushes, shared his affinity for salamanders and explained how to spot poison ivy, while Wendy Jackson, executive director, discussed the importance of the organization’s work. “We own and manage the largest collection of privately-held nature preserves in central Alabama,” Jackson said. “We’re Mother Nature’s real estate agents. Through our partnership projects, we’ve been able to protect over 10,000 acres of land.” The Freshwater Land Trust, formerly the Black Warrior Cahaba River Land Trust, was born out of Jefferson County’s struggles with its sewer system violations in the late 1990s. According to Jackson, the county owed $30 million in penalties to the federal treasury and worked out an agreement to keep the money in Alabama to be used towards greenway acquisition along rivers and streams. Because Jefferson County did not have a park and recreation board, the Environmental Protection Agency and U.S. Justice Department created an entity to implement the program, and the Freshwater Land Trust was created. That program officially ended in 2007, but the Freshwater Land Trust continued to function as a local nonprofit and became the first accredited land trust in the state. “We took that $30 million and turned it into $50 million worth of conservation work on the ground by leveraging those monies,” Jackson said. “We preserve the places that matter in the community. When we can, we believe in connecting people
to the outdoors. People are only going to protect what they know and love, and in this day and age, there is such a disconnect.” Today, the Freshwater Land Trust manages areas such as the Turkey Creek watershed, Locust Fork River
Homewood Central Park
watershed, Cane Creek watershed, Big and Little Canoe Creek watershed, the Cahaba River watershed, the Buxahatchee Creek watershed, the Shoal Creek watershed and Hurricane Creek watershed as well as urban greenways. Now, the trust is gearing up for its seventh annual Land Aid at Avondale Brewing Co. July 31. The event raised almost $10,000 for the organization last year, and organizers are hoping to top that number this year. “We call it a party for a cause,” said Memorie English, communications coordinator and development assistant. “We’ve worked with Avondale this year, and they’ve brewed two specialty beers.” The junior board fundraiser will feature the band Kopecky. Tickets are $25 in advance and $35 at the door. For more information, visit www. freshwaterlandtrust.org. ❖
© 2015 Alabama Power Company
Safe, affordable, reliable electricity is one form of power we provide, but not the only one. Meet Sharon Scott. She has a new home that’s affordable, comfortable and energy efficient. With help from Habitat for Humanity and Alabama Power, Sharon will have a comfortable place to call home for years to come. That’s power to help build dreams. That’s Power to Alabama.
Freshwater Land Trust junior board is gearing up for its seventh annual Land Aid at Avondale Brewing Co. July 31. The event raised almost $10,000 for the organization last year, and organizers are hoping to top that number this year.
Photo special to the Journal
Wendy Jackson, executive director, Freshwater Land Trust
OVER THE MOUNTAIN Journal
OVER THE MOUNTAIN Journal
Thursday, July 16, 2015 • 7
About Town
Homewood Sidewalk Sale
2nd Annual Homewood
Saturday, July 25
Sidewalk Sale
Saturday July, 26th
Sidewalk Sale: 50-75% off
75% Off Select Rugs!
2830 18th Street South • Homewood, AL 35209 205-879-3986 • Mon.-Sat. 9:30 - 5:30
1808 29th Avenue South • Downtown Homewood 205.870.3838 • M-F 10 to 4pm, Sat 10 to 3pm
sidewalk sale saturday july 25
50 to 75% Off! Curtains • hardware • lamps • mirrors rugs • aCCessories • sofa's • Chairs aCCent tables • deCorative pillows
To: Paige From: Over The Mountain Journal, 205-823-9646 ph., 205-824-1246, fax - linens - window treatment fine furniture Date: 2813 May18th street south • homewood • 879-5474
To: From:
Tricia Over The Mountain Journal, 205-823-9646 ph., 205-824-1246, fax Jul 2015
Date:
mantoothinteriors.com
This is your ad proof from the over the mountain Journal for the for or the Sidewalk Sale! July 16, 2015 issue. Please faxOpen approval changes to 824-1246. roman
brantley
This is your aD PrOOF from the Over The MOunTain JOurnal for the May 7, 2015 issue. Please fax approval or changes to 824-1246.
art & antiques please make sure all information is correct, including address and phone number! 2790 BM Montgomery Street • 205.460.1224
please initial and fax back within 24 hours.
Please make sure all information is correct, including address and phone number!
EvEryday is SalE day at To: From: Date:
If we have not heard from you by 5 pm of the Friday before the press date, your ad will run as is. We print the paper Monday.
thank you for your prompt attention.
Please initial and fax back within 24 hours.
Larry, 879-3388 if we have not heard from you by 5 pm of the Friday before the press date, Over The Mountain Journal, 205-823-9646 ph., the paper Monday. your ad will run as is. We print 205-824-1246, fax Thank you for your prompt attention. Jul 2015
Come Join The Fun and Takesure Something please make all information is correct, Home including address and phone number!
This is your ad proof from the over the mountain Journal for the July 26, 2015 issue. Please fax approval or changes to 824-1246.
2700 19th Place • Homewood • 871-9779 please initialSouth and fax back within 24 hours.
Tue.-Fri. 10:30-5:30 • Sat. If we have not heard from you by 5 pm of the11:00-4:30 Friday before the press date, your ad will run as is. We print the paper Monday.
thank you for your prompt attention.
From Central Avenue in Homewood, turn on to 28th Avenue South. Take first right on to BM Montgomery Street. We are located behind the Iron Tribe Fitness.
To: From:
Linda Over The Mountain Journal, PHONE: 205-823-9646 FAX: 205-824-1246 Date: July This is your ad proof from the over the mountain Journal for the July 16, 2015 issue. Please fax approval or changes to 824-1246.
Up to 50% Off - Sidewalk Sale Sat. July 26th
please make sure all information is correct, including 2805 18th Street South • Homewood, AL 35209 and phone number! p: address 205.870.7655 • www.facebook.com/sohoretro please initial and fax back within 24 hours.
If we have not heard from you by 5 pm of the Friday before the press date, your ad will run as is. We print the paper Monday.
8 • Thursday, July 16, 2015
Hatch Attack
people
Mountain Brook Resident Raises Funds for BCRFA
Samford’s New Coach Wants to Make His Team Your Team
Journal By Kaitlin Candelaria
Gen. Charles Krulak Joins Altamont School Board
Coach Chris Hatcher is known for the “Hatch Attack” and playing an exciting game of football. He said he and his team are on the hunt for another Southern Conference championship as well as a national championship this season.
By Kaitlin Candelaria Samford University’s new head football coach has some large shoes to fill, but he’s up to the challenge. Chris Hatcher became Samford’s new head football coach on the heels of Coach Pat Sullivan’s resignation in December 2014. Sullivan led the Bulldogs for eight seasons. Some highlights of his time at Samford include four straight winning seasons for the first time since the late 1990s as well as helping the team win its first Southern Conference championship in 2013. “Coach Sullivan has done a really good job of building the program basically from scratch,” Hatcher said. “He came in, and now we have this great facility and a Southern Conference championship under our belt. Now, we want to
‘I’m excited about the ‘Hatch Attack’ and the entertainment value of how we’re going to be playing on the field this fall.’
Samford Director of Athletics Martin Newton
take it to the next level. We want to be a perennial Southern Conference power. We want to be on the hunt for more conference championships and national championships every year.” Samford Director of Athletics Martin Newton said he agrees and is excited to watch Hatcher continue to build on that foundation. “Coach Sullivan really just built such a strong foundation, and at this point, I’m most excited about seeing Coach Hatcher continue to build on that,” Newton said. “I’m excited about the ‘Hatch Attack’ and the entertainment value of how we’re going to be playing on the field this fall.” In the past, Hatcher coached at Valdosta State University, Georgia Southern University and Murray State University and has given starts to big name coaches such as Will Muschamp and Kirby Smart during his career. He said he was drawn to the coaching position at Samford not only because of what he describes as an outstanding location but also because of the university’s academic reputation. “The school is so beautiful, and we have
really great athletic facilities here,” Hatcher said. “It just seemed like the right fit for me at this time in my career.” Hatcher, a father of two, said a lot of what makes a great coach is finding balance. “This is a job that there’s not enough hours in the day,” Hatcher said. “You’re constantly worried about the welfare of your student athletes, but you’ve got to take care of your own family and make sure that your coaching staff has time to be daddies as well.” As Hatcher and his team get ready for their first fall practices, which kick off next month, he’s focusing on playing an exciting brand of football. “You’ve got to be competitive,” Hatcher said. “Everybody likes a winner. I’ve always said you can be an Alabama fan or an Auburn fan, but you can also be a Samford fan. Our goal is to get the local community to come out and see the product that we put on the field every week. If someone has never been to a Southern Conference game, I think they’d be pleasantly surprised with the type of athletes that will be taking the field.” Newton said Hatcher is similar to Sullivan in that they are both family-oriented men. “The 80-plus young men we have on roster here are an extension of (Hatcher’s) family, and I’m excited to see how that’s going to blend and come together,” Newton said. “He has only been here for six months, and he’s already entrenched in the community, and that kind of enthusiasm is contagious.” That entrenchment will continue as football season nears, Newton predicted. “I think you’ll see a lot of new and exciting energetic things to get the student body fired up,” he said. But Newton and Hatcher aren’t playing all of their cards just yet. “There’s going to be some exciting new changes, but you’re just going to have to wait till Sept. 3 to see them,” Newton said. “If you want to come watch an exciting brand of football with true student athletes, this a familyfriendly, fun place to come watch a football game. The excitement we’re creating from a fan experience standpoint is well worth the low price. “We want Samford to become the Over the Mountain community’s football team.” ❖
OVER THE MOUNTAIN Journal
The Altamont School recently welcomed Gen. Charles Krulak (above) to its board of trustees. Krulak is the recently retired president of Birmingham-Southern College. He was appointed to the 31st Commandment of U.S. Marines Corp in 1995, where he served as a member of the joint chiefs of staff, instituted the Marine Corps Warfighting Laboratory and fathered the concepts of “The Block War” and “The Strategic Corporal” to help Marines better understand and prepare for modern warfare. During his service, he was recognized for his achievements with awards that included the Defense Distinguished Service Medal, the Navy Distinguished Service Medal, the Silver Star Medal, three Bronze Star Medals, the Meritorious Service Medal and the French Legion of Honor, among many others. He retired from the service in 1999. He also has served as the vice chairman and chief administrative officer for MBNA America Bank N.A. in Wilmington, Delaware, and as the chairman of the U.S. Naval Academy Board of Visitors. “It is clear that Gen. Krulak’s heart lies with education and young people, and we are delighted to have him join our Board of Trustees as it guides The Altamont School,” Sarah Whiteside, head of the school, said.
Homewood Rotary Club Announces New Officers James “Bo” Duke has been elected 2015-16 president of Homewood Rotary Club. Duke, senior account executive with Office Environments, was installed at the June 25 meeting by Rotary assistant district governor Bonnie Richards. Other new officers are Carol Chesnutt, president elect; Sandy Nelson, secretary; John Palieschesky, treasurer; and Debbie Roberson, immediate past president. Club directors are Mike Hathorne, Damon Holditch, John Krontiras, Bara James “Bo” Duke Lamon, Al Murray and Janice Scholl. Committee chairs are Damon Holditch, club service; Robert Sprain, community service; Lori Stoney, international service; Mike Hathorne, vocational service; Jeremy Nix, sergeant at arms; Melody Salter, membership; Janice Scholl, Rotary Foundation; and Mary Wimberley, public relations. Homewood Rotary projects include an annual bake sale and sidewalk chalk art festival at We Love Homewood Day each May, presentation of dictionaries to local third-grade students, and monetary contributions to Homewood Library and other area organizations. The club’s major commitment of long standing is the awarding of about $12,000 in college scholarships to deserving Homewood High School graduates each year. The 52-member club meets each Thursday at noon at Homewood Library on Oxmoor Road.
Ten-year-old Lilly Papapietro presented a check for $1,364 to the Breast Cancer Research Foundation of Alabama on June 18. Papapietro presented the check in memory of her aunt, Carolina Papapietro Higginbotham. After her aunt recently lost her battle with breast cancer, Lilly wanted to do something to help others facing or battling the disease. Papapietro began Lilly Papapietro plans to hold a lemonade stand, purchased the materials herself and set up outside of her father’s restaurant, Brick & Tin, in Mountain Brook. Her lemonade sale was successful, and she presented the proceeds to BCRFA during its Board of Directors meeting. Papapietro is the daughter of Mauricio and Susan Papapietro of Mountain Brook.
Housman Earns Eagle Scout Rank with Troop 97 in Homewood Brian Davis Housman, of Homewood, earned the highest rank in Boy Scouts. Davis completed the requirements for Eagle Scout as a member of Troop 97 at Trinity United Methodist Church under the leadership of Scoutmaster Steve Lloyd. For his Eagle project, Housman built a set of backless benches and bluebird houses for the Lakeshore Foundation. The benches are easily accessible from both sides for hospital patients and, since the addition of the bird houses, there has been an increase in bluebirds on the campus. Housman began scouting in 2006 as a Tiger Cub with Pack 397 and received the Arrow of Light as a Webelo 2. On his way to becoming an Eagle Scout, Housman served as den chief for Pack 397 and as quartermaster, historian Brian Davis and patrol leader for Housman Troop 97. He led his patrol to victory twice during Troop 97’s Mafeking, a reenactment of the founding of Boy Scouts, and attended Scout summer camp every year. Housman participated in two high adventure trips, Sea Base and Northern Tier, earned 37 merit badges and camped a total of 67 nights with Troop 97. A rising sophomore at Homewood High School, Housman was undefeated at the number one position of the tennis team during the regular season. Housman is an active member of the Cathedral Church of the Advent, where he attends a weekly Bible study and serves as an acolyte. Housman is the son of Kevin and Leslie Housman and the grandson of Beverly and the late James K. Baker and Carmen and the late Charles L. Housman.
Jackson of Vestavia Hills Earns Eagle Scout Rank with Troop 76 Pierce Masters Jackson of Troop 76 earned the Boy Scouts of America Eagle Scout Award. He was recognized at a ceremony held at Liberty Park Baptist Church on Aug. 10, 2014. Jackson began scouting with Pack 26 in Wilmington Island near Savannah, Georgia, before transferring to Cub Scout Pack 776 in Vestavia Hills, where he received his Arrow of Light award. He then joined Troop 76, sponsored by Liberty Crossings United Methodist Church. Jackson’s Eagle Scout Project involved constructing a Prayer Garden for Liberty Park
Baptist Church. He led a team of workers to clear land; build an arbor, benches and a table; lay sod; and plant a variety of trees, shrubs and flowering plants. Along with his team, he put more than 200 man hours into the project. Jackson has served in a variety of leadership roles in the Troop, including assistant patrol leader, patrol leader, troop chaplain and troop scribe. He earned 22 merit badges and received the Pinoti Trail Award. A junior at Vestavia Hills High School, Jackson plays trumpet in the Vestavia Hills Marching Pierce Masters Band and is a Jackson member of the German Honor Society and the National Honor Society. Jackson is the son of Kenneth and Cherry Jackson of Vestavia Hills.
Grotting Named New ASAPS President Dr. James C. Grotting has been named president of the American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery. A clinical professor of plastic surgery at the University of Alabama at Birmingham and the University of WisconsinMadison, Grotting also operates a private practice in Birmingham, is a senior examiner and director of the American Board of Plastic Surgery and a fellow of the American College of
Thursday, July 16, 2015 • 9
people
OVER THE MOUNTAIN Journal
Surgeons. In addition to being president of ASAPS, Grotting has served as chair of the Society’s education commission and is a board member of the Aesthetic Dr. James C. Grotting Surgery Education and Research Foundation, a non-profit research and education arm of ASAPS. He serves on numerous editorial boards and is the author of five major textbooks in the specialty of plastic surgery. Grotting also has provided free plastic surgery for children with facial deformities in developing countries through Operation Smile since 1987. Grotting is also a member of the American Society of Plastic Surgeons and the American Association of Plastic Surgeons, past president of the Southeastern Society of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgeons and is a traveling professor for both the Plastic Surgery Foundation and ASAPS. He is the founder of CosmetAssure, an insurance program that covers unexpected financial exposure for patients from complications in cosmetic surgery.
Smith Named LLS Man of the Year Fred Smith, of Mountain Brook, has been named Man of the Year by the Birmingham chapter of the Leukemia
and Lymphoma Society. Smith is a Realtor with RealtySouth’s Crestline branch and has been involved with the LLS for more than 25 years. “I was 18 years old when a friend of my parents and a member of my sailing club, Stan Wrobel, died of leukemia,” Smith said. “As a result of Mr. Wrobel’s death, Pine Harbor Yacht Club – now Birmingham Sailing Club – started the Leukemia Cup. This has turned into a worldwide fundraising event that I am proud to say I was a part of from day one.”
FACT:
85% of core brain structure is developed by age four.
From left: Mary Elizabeth Olvey, Fred Smith and Walker Simmons. The LLS Man and Woman of the Year campaign is a 10-week fundraising competition in which participants build fundraising teams to compete for the title of Man or Woman of the Year. The titles are awarded to the man and woman in each community who raises the most money. This year, Smith’s team raised more than $45,000 for the campaign. The funds raised through the campaign are used for blood cancer research in honor of the Boy and Girl of the Year, two local children who are blood cancer survivors. This year’s Birmingham chapter Boy and Girl of the Year are Walker Simmons and Mary Elizabeth Olvey. ❖
Infants – Private Pre-K & After School
PRIMROSE WAY:
Recommending the right activity at the right time is child’s play. NOW REGISTERING FOR FALL 2015 Primrose School at Liberty Park
1800 Urban Center Parkway | Vestavia Hills, AL 35242 205.969.8202 | PrimroseLibertyPark.com Each Primrose school is a privately owned and operated franchise. Primrose Schools® and The Leader in Early Education and CareSM are registered trademarks and service marks of Primrose School Franchising Company. ©2015 Primrose School Franchising Company. All rights reserved. See primroseschools.com for ‘fact’ source and curriculum detail.
Cause a little more confusion over your age with a
CHEMICAL PEEL.
Chemical peels are among the most versatile dermatologic treatments, effectively treating many common problems. A chemical peel is a great way to eliminate many superficial blemishes, while improving the overall texture and tone of your skin. Various types of peels may be used to treat areas of irregular pigmentation, unwanted freckles, scaly or rough areas, wrinkles and fine lines, sun or age spots, scarring, acne, sun damage, and much more! D E R M A T O L O G Y Medical • Pediatric • Cosmetic • For appointments, call 205.871.7332 or visit us at skinwellnessAL.com. HOMEWOOD 1920 Huntington Road, Homewood, AL 35209 I CHELSEA 398 Chesser Drive, Suite 3, Chelsea, AL 35043 I TUSCALOOSA 922 Fairfax Park, Tuscaloosa, AL 35406
SWC_OTMJhalfpg_chemical peel.indd 1
7/9/15 11:31 AM
News
10 • Thursday, July 16, 2015
u Over the Mountain
By Emily Williams After nearly a year of construction, the new Cahaba Road roundabout was unveiled with a ribbon-cutting ceremony July 1. The roundabout is positioned between the entrance to the Birmingham Zoo and the site of a new entrance for the Botanical Gardens. Through the incorporation of crosswalks and a new sidewalk, the zoo and the gardens will be connected, creating the option for guests to park at either attraction and walk between the two. As a result, the existing three-lane road has been reduced to two lanes to accommodate the space needed for the sidewalks on both sides of the street. “We put the road on a diet,” said Birmingham city council member Valerie Abbott. Because of the curve of the roundabout, she said, drivers will have a harder time speeding. Abbott also said that making the two attractions walkable will have health benefits for the public. “It’s exactly what we envisioned,” Mountain Brook city council member u hoover
Library Will Get Updated Interior The Hoover Library will be undergoing a facelift during August and September. The library, which has almost 500,000 visitors a year, has maintained the same color scheme for almost 25 years. “Our goal with this project is to update the color scheme on the main level of the library using shades of green, blue, orange and gold to highlight the main hallway in the library,” Patricia Guarino, assistant director, said. “The children’s area will also be identified with unique colors and designs, while contemporary unique computer and study carrels will provide open and modern work and study spaces.” Other updates include new carpet. With the exception of a few small areas, most of the library still has its original carpet. However, installing new carpet in a library isn’t without challenges. “In a library filled with lots of shelves with books, new carpet means moving a lot of stuff around,” Guarino said. “Luckily, there are companies that specialize in moving shelves as well as library books. They promise to put the books back in the right order.” The majority of the library will remain
u vestavia Hills
Study Should Help City Address Recreational Needs By William C. Singleton III
Journal photo by Emily Williams
New Roundabout Connects Zoo and Botanical Gardens
OVER THE MOUNTAIN Journal
Birmingham Mayor William Bell and Mountain Brook City Council Member Jesse Vogtle cut the ribbon celebrating the opening of a new roundabout on Cahaba Road between entrances to the Birmingham Zoo and the Birmingham Botanical Gardens.
Jesse Vogtle said. “We wanted to see these communities connecting with each other, coming together and collaborating.” Because of its location, the roundabout became a joint project for Homewood, Mountain Brook, Birmingham and Jefferson County. “We are one community, and we all must work together to improve that,” Birmingham Mayor William Bell said. “And the project that has been completed here represents the knitting of those communities.” In addition, ALDOT collaborated with the Red Rock Ridge and Valley Trail System, a project under the Freshwater Land Trust, when creating the new feature. The initiative of Freshwater Land Trust is to make Birmingham a better place to live
by creating an environment in which healthy choices are easier to make. Representatives from the Freshwater Land Trust said they hope the new sidewalks will encourage and invite people in the community to walk instead of drive. The Birmingham Botanical Gardens also announced upcoming improvements that will enhance the surrounding community. The facility will see over $700,000 in projects put in place with the help of the Friends of the Birmingham Botanical Gardens. Improvements will include facility repairs, a new entrance on Cahaba Road, a crosswalk outside of the Lane Parke Road entrance, waste management upgrades and a new path through the Southern Living Garden. ❖
open during the renovations, although patrons will have limited access to the children’s area as well as certain book sections during the installation of the new materials. The library staff will work with patrons to access items when possible. “The library is encouraging patrons to keep items that would normally be due in August until Sept. 8,” Guarino said. The library will close completely Sept. 3-7. The Pennington Group will handle the renovations. Barry Davis Architects is managing the project. Laura Harchelroad is the interior designer. “The library is very excited about the fresh new look that we will have when the project is completed,” Guarino said. “August is going to be very challenging for our library staff. Construction projects always bring surprises, but we are going to do our best to provide great library service throughout this project.”
library patrons. Instead of a traditional ribbon cutting to celebrate the expansion, children Mary Catherine and Jake Morrow raced to and broke through a finish line under the direction of Buddy Anderson, Vestavia Hills High School’s head football coach. In addition, the library is making plans to add and update current technology through the addition of a 3D printer and programming software for the electronic classrooms. The library’s children’s department plans to feature the parking addition at the Mother/Son Hero Games July 18. The event will begin at 10 a.m. in the library’s community room and is open to all ages. Participants will engage in both competitive and non-competitive activities designed to increase the bond between mothers and sons. For more information, visit www. vestavialibrary.org or call 978-0158.
u vestavia Hills
u vestavia Hills
The Vestavia Hills Library in the Forest recently finished a parking lot expansion project and announced the opening of 46 new parking spaces for
An overflow crowd attended the July 9 meeting of the Vestavia Hills Planning and Zoning Commission where a
—Kaitlin Candelaria
Library in the Forest Adds More Parking
—Emily Williams
Developer Tables Plans for Cahaba Heights Apartment Complex
With a growing sports program and limited fields to handle the influx of young athletes, Vestavia Hills city and recreational officials commissioned a study to address the city’s future recreational needs earlier this year. That study is expected to be released this month, city officials said. City leaders hope the study will provide more clarity on how they should proceed in acquiring and utilizing land for parks and recreation. The city currently has several recreational projects pending but doesn’t plan to move until it gets more clarity through the study, which will form the basis for its Recreational and Athletics Master Plan. “Vestavia Hills is a very linear city, 19 miles long, with various uses and demands for our resources,” Jeff Downes, city manager, said. “Part of the study is going to determine what the future holds for all of these from a convenience standpoint and utilization standpoint. Part of the study will look at how many hours we’re using certain fields and should we be using it for those number of hours. That will drive how we ultimately take our full supply of assets and how we shift them around and use them.” In March, the city council hired Atlanta-based Brailsford & Dunlavey to conduct the study. The study includes a survey taken of Vestavia Hills residents on what they envision in parks and recreational amenities, said Brian Davis, the city’s public service director. Nearly 3,000 residents participated in the survey. “They’re taking all the data and
comments and putting it together and are going to come back with something for us,” Davis said. “And once we receive that information, it should give us a better idea of what we need.” The city currently has two deals pending which could give it more land to use as parks and recreation space. The city is working with David Keith of Keith Development Co. for the Altadena Valley Country Club property. Keith Development wants to acquire about 90 acres for single-family homes and donate 64 acres to the city for park space. Preliminary plans for the property include walking and biking trails and athletic fields, although these plans also are subject to the master plan. The city now is in the process of annexing the property from Jefferson County into Vestavia Hills. The annexation process takes 90 days and is scheduled to be approved by the council Sept. 28. City leaders also are trying to decide if they want to purchase about five acres off old Columbiana Road at Chateau Vestavia for lacrosse and soccer fields. The city currently leases the fields from the property owner for lacrosse and soccer. Four years ago, Vestavia Hills officials built sports fields for lacrosse, football and soccer at the Sicard Hollow Sports Complex. But even those fields now aren’t enough. “We had close to 500 kids who played in two of the tackle football leagues and a flag football league last year,” Davis said. “So our needs just continue to grow, and as the city changes, we’ve got to adapt and make sure all the recreations needs are met.” ❖
proposed rezoning of the area between Dolly Ridge Road and Oakview Lane was discussed. Many were there to contest the proposed rezoning and the potential development of a 150unit apartment complex would have incorporated an additional 20,000 square feet of retail space, enough for one or two businesses. Because the capacity of the city council chamber was 88 persons, the bulk of attendees stood at the entrance of the building and listened to the meeting through a portable speaker. At the meeting, developer Stephen Hydinger announced he would be withdrawing his plans for the mixeduse property in order to tweak the existing design and transform it into a development that would be amenable to residents. In a previous meeting on July 6, citizens raised concerns regarding the
potential effect an apartment complex could have on the functionality of the area and the safety of children attending Vestavia Hills Elementary Cahaba Heights. “We feel like we can work with everybody to come up with a great design,” Hydinger said. Cahaba Heights residents are hoping that the redesign will not include apartments. “They say it won’t change the crime rate, but just look at the Summit apartments,” resident Judy Gilchrist said. “If these apartments were built, then the school would be directly between two apartment buildings.” Though the development of the property has been tabled for the time being, council members said the Cahaba Heights community should look forward to development on the property —Emily Williams in the future.
From page 1
mascot. “Show these students the respect they deserve and let them make the vote,” he said. Others said the decision was too big for students to decide alone. “This is a decision for the board of education. It is the high school of these students who are there now, but it’s also my kid’s high school,” said Vestavia Hills parent Susan Crow. “And it’s going to be the high school for kids for years and years to come.” The Rebel mascot in question resembles a Southern gentleman dressed in a Civil War uniform. Others see it as a representation of a Southern plantation owner. The Confederate battle flag and other symbols connected to the Confederacy and the old South have come under increased scrutiny and criticism following the June 17 fatal shooting of nine black people attending Wednesday night services at Emanuel African Methodist Episcopal church in Charleston, South Carolina. The gunman, Dylann Roof, who is white, had been pictured with the Confederate battle flag and confessed, according to one witness, that his intent was to kill black people. Because of controversy stemming from from Roof’s identification with the Confederate flag, Alabama and other states have removed the battle flag from state grounds as a way to promote unity and racial healing. The group Vestavia Mascot for All
has called on the city school board to get rid of the Rebel mascot and adopt a symbol “that represents everyone.” Vestavia Hills School Superintendent Sheila Phillips reminded the audience that the controversy over the Rebel symbol is not a new one for the city school system. “The media threw us into a spotlight following the terrible and senseless tragedy in our country,” she said at the start of the work session. “But concerns about the perception of our symbols and names, particularly our mascot, the Rebel Man, have been regularly shared with us by numerous individual citizens and groups with whom our paths may cross.” Phillips said she plans to make a recommendation to the board by the end of July. The board’s next regular meeting is July 29. McWaters said in 1999 when he was high school assistant principal, he asked the person who was then principal if he could modify the school’s “Rebel” flag logo. “It was a very easy change, because if you just took away the stars on the Rebel flag, it changed into the state of Alabama flag,” he said. McWaters admitted that the school system “didn’t do the right thing allowing (the flag) to be displayed for so long.” When he became principal in 2006, McWaters said, he began offering students a new school flag in exchange for their Confederate flags. He said many students and teachers see the Rebel mascot in a different light than a symbol of racism. “Being a Rebel means doing your
Journal photos by William C. Singleton III
rebel,
Thursday, July 16, 2015 • 11
news
OVER THE MOUNTAIN Journal
From left: Vestavia Hills resident Kira Fonteneau urges the school board to change the Rebel name. Vestavia Hills resident and former parks and recreation board member Steve Bendall addresses the board. Bendall favors keeping the Rebel mascot and asked that if school officials plan to change the symbol to give students the opportunity to vote on the issue.
More than 175 people crowd an auditorium at the Vestavia Hills Board of Education building to hear discussion on whether the high school should retain the Rebel Mascot.
best, giving your all, loving VHHS, always having the edge, striving every day to be a champion and doing your best to uphold the greatness the school has always stood for,” he said, reading from a past school yearbook. McWaters said he thought aban-
doning the Rebel name would “destroy our students’ sense of community.” Steven Craft, a professor and dean of the business school at the University of Montevallo, said changing the mascot could help attract more businesses to Vestavia Hills. He cited a
local poll which indicated that 60 percent of Birmingham’s business leaders feel that Confederate symbols hurt the region’s efforts to attract new businesses. “Our own governor identified economic development as one of the reasons for removing Confederate symbols from the state capitol,” he reminded the audience. Lance Webster asked the board to consider the cost of changing the mascot, a figure he estimated would be more than $200,000. “We’re talking about cheerleader uniforms, skirts, warm-up jackets, body suits, practice shirts, signs that cheerleaders use,” he said. “We’ve got signage around the field and promotional items we sell, uniforms, coaches’ attire, and that doesn’t include the big Rebel in the end zone and Rebel Man on the basketball court.” The packed auditorium at the board’s central office had a capacity for 177 people. Others who couldn’t get into the auditorium formed a line outside the school board building. Many supporters wore shirts saying “Once a Rebel, Always a Rebel,” and others wore paper buttons reading “A Mascot for Everyone.” While most seem to be either for or against retaining the Rebel symbol, Marcella Shepherd, a Vestavia resident and alumni of the high school, offered a compromise. “I think we should remain the Rebels and change the mascot, or not even have a mascot,” she said. “I just hate to see this whole community divided over political correctness.” ❖
Less waiting where it matters most – our emergency room. In a medical emergency, every minute matters. So, at Trinity Medical Center, you’ll find faster care in the emergency room. We work diligently to have you initially seen by a medical professional* in 30 minutes – or less. And, with a team of dedicated medical specialists, we can provide a lot more care, if you need it.
The 30-Minutes-Or-Less E.R. Service Pledge – at Trinity Medical Center. *Medical professionals may include physicians, physician assistants and nurse practitioners.
82676_TRIN_Q1ER30_10_25x6_25c.indd 1
TrinityMedicalOnline.com
1/26/15 11:08 AM
12 • Thursday, July 16, 2015
social
OVER THE MOUNTAIN Journal
Front, from left: Crissy Mitchell, Joann Bishop and Angie Vilchez. Back: Janna Rutland and Jennifer Crowson.
Take Heart AHA Hosts Annual Go Red Luncheon
Photos special to the Journal
M
ore than 600 men and women decked out in red attended the American Heart Association’s 2015 Birmingham Go Red for Women luncheon. The annual event was held at The Sheraton Birmingham May 1. Guests enjoyed a Red Hot Reception which included educational break out sessions, CPR training and free health screenings provided by St. Vincent’s Health Systems. The reception also included Esteé Lauder makeovers, photo booths and frozen yogurt from Yogurt Mountain. Following the reception, Clare Huddleston of FOX 6 WBRC took over as emcee of the event and led a heartwarming program filled with inspirational stories and lifesaving information. Go Red for Women is a national organization and is sponsored locally by St. Vincent’s Health System, Alabama Power, Brasfield and Gorrie, Yogurt Mountain and Golden Construction. ❖
Toni Jones and Melanie Schuler.
Aaron Bishop and Brad Hilsmier.
April and Matt Harry.
Geoff Golden, Sandy Thurmond and Nan Priest.
Front, from left: Dr. Neena Xavier, Morgan Leigh Hoyt and Lauren Thomason. Back: Liz Moore, Karen Ivey, Yolanda Coleman, Monica Whiting-Smith, Nan Priest, Kimberly Rider and Dana Meginniss. Clare Huddleston.
A home is greater than the sum of its parts. But we believe the parts should be great as well. Introducing the Cherry Laurel, the first of a new series of floor plans at Mt Laurel. A home where the craftsmanship within and the premier brands throughout reflect the importance of home. Cherry Laurel Model Home open daily | (205) 408-8696 | mtlaurel.com
Greater Birmingham Association of Home Builders Gold Award Winner 2015
OVER THE MOUNTAIN Journal
Market day
Thursday, July 16, 2015 • 13
14 • Thursday, July 16, 2015
market day
OVER THE MOUNTAIN Journal
Market Day
Mountain Brook Village European-style Outdoor Sale Set for Saturday, July 18
The 14th edition of Mountain Brook’s Market Day is this Saturday, and merchants are slashing prices while shoppers make their wish lists. Market Day is a European-style outdoor sidewalk and tent sale for merchants in Mountain Brook Village. Stores will be participating from 8 a.m.-5 p.m., with some stores offering discounts of up to 75 percent off. Many merchants often have music and
other special events for the sale, and many have preview sales leading up to the one-day event. “It all started with Jean Clayton with Christine’s having a Bastille Day sale,” Wesley Lassen, owner of The Cook Store, said. “We would all have big sales on that day but decided to change the name to Market Day several years ago.” When the event first became an annual tradition, merchants would have outdoor activities for children and other things to lure shoppers to Market Day, Lassen said. “But we’ve gotten away from that now because really, it’s about the shopping. It’s not about the activities,” she said. Like other merchants, Lassen sets up a tent on the sidewalk outside her shop, she said. Suzan Doidge, the Mountain Brook Chamber of Commerce’s executive director, said Market Day gives the city’s business community a chance to come together and for people from all around the area to come and see what Mountain Brook merchants have to offer. For more information, visit www. welcometomountainbrook.com.
The Cook Store
“It’s a fun day in the Village with lots of sales and the best deals of the year. We think of Market Day as a crazy Christmas like day at The Cook Store (minus the gift wrap!)” Wesley Lassen
Market Day Sale!
Some of B'ham'S hippeSt giftS will Be up to 75% off! Mountain Brook
Saturday, July 18th • Everything Instore 20% Off! 2707 Culver Road • 871.9093 One Day Only! • No gift wrap or returns on Market Day
Mountain Brook 2707 Culver Road • 871.9093
Paige Albright Orientals
“We love participating in Market Day in the Village and look forward to seeing everyone. Come shop early, we’ll be here from 8am-2pm and we’ll have bottled water and lots of great sales.” Paige Albright
Store Hours: 8am - 4pm
July 17th - July 25th
Saturday, July 18th
To: Leigh From: Over The Mountain Journal, phone 205-823-9646, fax 205-824-1246 Date: July 2015 This is your aD prOOF from the Over The MOunTain JOurnaL for the
www.thecookstoremtnbrook.com
Thursday, July 16, 2015 • 15
market day
OVER THE MOUNTAIN Journal
Market Day preview! Select pillow covers, $25. Paige Albright Orientals, 877-3232.
Marguerite’s conceits
“We’re known for out $10 tent on Market Day! Totes, scarves, soaps, candles and so much more. It’s a great time to load up on teacher, hostess and holiday gifts!”
Large Jute tote bag originally $22, Market day special $10. Marguerite Conceits, 879-2730
Wade Oliver pie plate, $32 sale price, 20% off almost storewide. The Cook Store, 879-5277.
Marguerite Ray
Juliska Country Estate Autumn discontinued pieces. All 50% OFF! In-stock items only. Bromberg’s, 871-3276.
Back By Popular Demand!
A’mano
“Market Day is a fun, but HOT day! We love getting to see new faces and meet new customers. Come see us. We will have 20% off the entire store!”
July 18th
Lynn Ritchie
Hobo Purse regular price $238, sale price $190. A’Mano, 871-9093
2406 Canterbury road • 879.2730
Summer Linen Sale! 20-75% off all Bed Linens!!! July 1st - 18th
Market Day Sale
Select pillows & accessories 1/2 price.
20% to 75% Off
ALL IN STOCK Dash and Albert 1/2 price. (several large sizes available)
Tuesday, July 13 - Saturday, July 18
SELECT PILLOW COVERS $25 ALL INSTOCK COWHIDES $500
Tent Sale!
OPEN EARLY! 8 a.m. until 2 p.m. 2814 Petticoat Lane, Mountain Brook Village www.paigealbrightorientals.com • 877-3232
To: From:
Marguerite Over the Mountain Journal
o: om:
ate:
16 • Thursday, July 16, 2015
social
OVER THE MOUNTAIN Journal
Pride and responsibility drive us to be the best in everything we do.
Joseph Braswell
As a life-long Over-the-Mountain resident and a third generation working at Guin, I feel great pride and responsibility in carrying on the legacy of honesty and hard work that my grandfather began over 55 years ago. Family is very important to us, and we treat our customers with the same care and respect as members of our own family. It would be a privilege to serve you. Serving the Birmingham Area Since 1958
Photos special to the Journal
AIR CONDITIONING • HEATING • PLUMBING • GENERATORS • SEWER
Member of the Mountain Brook Chamber of Commerce
205-595-4846 • guinservice.com
AL#12175
Mention this ad to receive a free diagnostic service call.
online auction 3124 Renfro Road
Vestavia Hills Building Lot 143x155 +/.7 mile to the HWY 31 & Rocky Ridge Road Expansive Views View Anytime GTAonlineauctions.com Bill Crow 205-902-9144
Above: From left: Dr. Joe Hopkins, Dr. Charles Carter, Janice Carter, David Phelps and Suzanne Hopkins. below: Karen Bergquist and Jeanna Westmoreland.
Wright Place, Wright Time Legacy League Holds Scholarship Celebration
The campus of Samford University was the site of Legacy League’s seventh annual Scholarship Celebration on May 7. Nearly 400 guests celebrated this year's fundraising efforts, which resulted in over $100,000, and the creation of the Centennial Scholarship, commemorating 100 years of teacher education at Samford University. Those in attendance included Jack F. Granger #873 Legacy League members and their guests, sponsors, scholarship recipients, alumni, parents and friends of Alabama Ballet School Samford. The evening began with hors 2015-2016 d’oeuvres on the candlelit veranda Register now! and lobby of the Wright Center. Open House and Performance Course Audition Guests mingled and enjoyed photo Sunday, August 16, 2015 at 2 p.m. opportunities with Dove and Grammy Award winner and featured guest, Tracey Alvey, Artistic Director David Phelps. Phelps signed autographs as each guest received a copy of his newly released CD, "Freedom." An al fresco buffet dinner was held under a 5,200 square foot white tent adjacent to the Wright Center. Tables were decorated with black linen tablecloths, covered with burlap squares and topped with black lanterns surrounded by tea lights. Magnolia leaves were abundant and burlap ribbons tied large white draperies, forming columns around the tented area. The buffet featured two carving stations of a steamship round of beef and Cajun roasted turkey breast, as Kay well as a smashed potato bar with Over The Mountain Journal, 205-823-9646 ph., School starts numerous toppings. Other offerings 205-824-1246, fax August 24, 2015 included a shrimp and grits station, July 2015 baked crabmeat soufflé, buffalo For more information, visit chicken This is your aD prOOF from the Overalabamaballet.org The MOunTain JOurnal for the dip, Mediterranean garlic or hummus, assorted vegetables and July 16, 2015 issue. please fax approval or changes contact Libba Owen atto 824-1246. fresh fruits and cheeses. Tiered des205-322-1874 or sert trays displayed cheesecake and please make sure alllibbaowen@alabamaballet.org information is correct,chocolate brownie bites, lemon and tartlets and a variety of including address and phone number! blueberry fruit-filled phyllo pastries. After dinner, guests moved into please initial and fax back within 24 hours. the auditorium where outgoing if we have not heard from you by 5 pm Kelli of the Friday before the press date, Legacy League President Karen Murdock-Sylestine your ad will run as is. We print theBallet paper Monday. Alabama Ballet is a 501(c)(3) organization Alabama Dancer Bergquist welcomed guests and Graduate of the Alabama Ballet School Photo by Melissa Dooley opened with a prayer. Expressing this Thank you for your prompt attention.
GranGer, thaGard & associates, inc.
year’s theme of “The Joy of the Lord is Our Strength,” Bergquist shared an overview of the organization and its goal to raise funds for scholarships. The new Centennial Scholarship, added to the Legacy League endowment of more than $1.8 million and will provide assistance for students with significant financial needs and
challenging circumstances who are pursuing a career in education. To date, the Legacy League has awarded nearly $600,000 in scholarships, helping more than 80 students to attend the university. Bergquist then introduced Sharon Smith, Legacy League’s director of development, who thanked the gathering and shared how scholarships such as this can change lives. One such recipient, Micah Green-Holloway thanked Legacy League for not only helping to change his life but for the privilege to attend Samford University. Suzanne Hopkins, scholarship celebration chair, introduced Phelps. Legacy League Executive Director Jeanna Westmoreland closed the evening with special thanks to the event sponsors, the 12 scholarship recipients and to Bergquist. The Scholarship Celebration Planning Committee was comprised of Bergquist, Hopkins and Westmoreland, as well as Lisa Beckham, Lisbeth Cease, Vickie Gord, Jane Lewis, Suzanne Page, Sharon Smith, Allison Strickland and Harriet Williams. In addition, over fifty volunteers helped with various details pertaining to the event. ❖
Maggie Beth Phelps, Jack Daniels, Callie Phelps and David Phelps.
social
OVER THE MOUNTAIN Journal
Valets and Virtuosos
From left: Virginia Lavallet, Judy Carnes and Patsy Norton.
gloves and bow tie, greeted the guests and served Prosecca. A bountiful table was set in the dining room with food and flowers. The meeting was held
in the courtyard gardens, with musical entertainment by the Carns’ son, Jase, and her granddaughters, Olivia and Charlotte. ❖
Photos special to the Journal
The Carousels Dance Club met at the home of outgoing president Judy Carnes to elect new officers and welcome new members Jean Bailey and Coleta Newton. New officers include: Jo Anne Gaede, president; Virginia Lavallet, party chairman and committee; Margie Williams, party chairman and committee; Tina Darnall, party chairman and committee; Martha Cheney, secretary; Peggy Marshall, treasurer; Bede Donnell assistant treasurer; Theo Greene, publicity; and Sahra Coxe Lee, yearbook. Upon entering Carns’ home, guests were greeted by “valet” Roy Costner - husband of member Bebe Costner - who donned a chauffeur cap, white
Photo special to the Journal
Carousels Elects New Officers
From left: Anne Carey, Camille Butrus, Betsy Canterbury, George Ann Parker and Susan Pitts.
Celebrating the Season
Charades Hold Spring Luncheon The Charades Dance Club held their Spring Luncheon April 28 at the Country Club of Birmingham, hosted by members Sarah Lynn and Fox DeFuniak. The theme for this year’s luncheon was “Celebrating the Season.” Luncheon chairman Anne Carey planned the event along with her committee members Jeanne Bradford, Evelyn Bradley, Camille Butrus, Betsy Canterbury and Judy Carnes. Members enjoying coffee, tea, mimosas and wine in the living room decorated with yellow spider mums were
Barbara Chapman, Mary Cobb, Ellen Cunningham, Judy Daniel, Anne Dawson, Enid Dean, Louise Ellis, Anne Finch, Diane Gamble, Claire Goodhew, Toni Hartley, Laurie Hayworth, Beth Henry, Nell Henderson, Dale Holditch, Pam Kilgore and Karen Lloyd. The luncheon continued in the dining room with wedgewood blue table cloths and yellow napkins. Each centerpiece consisted of a round mirror upon which sat a fish bowl vase containing floating yellow spider mums. Enjoying the buffet menu of fried chicken, vegetables, salads and desserts included Verna Lyons, Pat Miree, Becky Powell, Carolyn Reed, Susan Reeves, Martha Cobb Roberts, Nancy Stetler, Marsha Terrell, Diana Turnipseed, Karen Watkins, Patsy Straka, Susan Strickland, Lana Thompson, Susan Pitts, Helen Robin, Josephine Pankey, Kathy Ash, Patsy Burns, Naomi Cunningham and Anne Lampkin. Following the luncheon, a brief meeting was led by outgoing president, George Ann Parker and a new slate of officers for the coming year was passed. The new officers include Judy Bewley, president; Carol Corvin, first vice president; Loretta Hood, second vice president; Katy Sexton, secretary; Sallie Aman White, treasurer; Mary Putman, publicity; Kathleen Watkins, publicity; Katie Dunn, yearbook and webmaster; Diane Weatherford, membership; and George Ann Parker, parliamentarian. ❖
Dale Holditch, Diana Turnipseed and Anne Dawson.
Thursday, July 16, 2015 • 17
18 • Thursday, July 16, 2015
social
OVER THE MOUNTAIN Journal
All Barks and Bites
*RESTRICTIONS APPLY. SHIPS’ REGISTRY BAHAMAS AND USA
Don’t Delay, Call one of our Cruise speCialists toDay! this offer enDs July 1st.
DON'T DELAY, CALL ONE OF OUR CRUISE SPECIALIST TODAY! THIS OFFER ENDS ON JULY 31st. ADVENTURE TRAVEL 205-380-5500 vacations@adtrav.com www.AdventureTravel.com
Adventure trAvel 205-380-5500 vacations@adtrav.com www.Adventuretravel.com Terms and Conditions: *Pride of America sailings are not eligible for the offer. Norwegian Sky sailings beginning January 1, 2016 are not eligible for the offer. **Family and Friends Free or 50% depends on sail date booked. Sail dates and promotion listed on 2nd tab. *Note: Guests booking a Studio or Inside stateroom on any applicable 2015 sailing through December 22, 2015 are entitled to choose one of the following offers as of Monday, July 6, 2015: Ultimate beverage package - CHOB, Ultimate dining package - CHOD, 250 minutes internet package - CHOINT, $75 shore excursion credit per port - CHOSHOR, Soda Package - CHOSODA, $50 Dining Credit - CHOSPD, Offer is for New Individual FIT Reservations, New Group Delegates and FS bookings. Qualifying New Individual FIT reservations can be moved into an existing traditional or FS Group and count towards Tour Conductor Credits.Offer is combinable with existing group block rates. RQs are not applicable unless RQ reservation converted to OF or BK status within the promotional booking window. Promotion can not be held as group block.Singles paying 200% of voyage fare qualify.Guest cannot substitute or customize this offer. All Guests in stateroom must choose same offer.Government Taxes, Port Expenses & Fees, discretionary onboard service charges and are additional.Cancellation Fees also apply based on the Booking/Sailing date; therefore, Norwegian Cruise Line strongly recommends the purchase of Travel Protection on all bookings.Not applicable to Chartered Dates and Group Types: CMI OP EVENT, CMI OP LG EVENT, INCREG & INCLARGE This is a cruise only offer. This promotion is not applicable on the land portion of Cruisetours or BUNDLES.Offer and combinability with other promotional offers is subject to change at any time per Norwegian Cruise Line’s discretion. Other restrictions may apply. Applicable to NCLMIAMI, NCLINTL, AUSTRALIA, and NCL BRAZIL . Not applicable to CE and UK offices.
April Over The Mountain Journal, PHONE: 205-823-9646 䘀爀漀洀 漀椀氀 挀栀愀渀最攀猀Ⰰ 愀氀椀最渀洀攀渀琀猀Ⰰ 愀渀搀 䄀氀愀戀愀洀愀 椀渀猀瀀攀挀琀椀漀渀猀 琀漀 FAX: 205-824-1246 洀愀樀漀爀 爀攀瀀愀椀爀猀 漀渀 礀漀甀爀 攀渀最椀渀攀 愀渀搀 搀爀椀瘀攀 琀爀愀椀渀Ⰰ 漀甀爀 琀攀挀栀渀椀挀椀愀渀猀 July 眀椀氀氀 琀愀欀攀 挀愀爀攀 漀昀 礀漀甀爀 挀愀爀Ⰰ 琀爀甀挀欀 漀爀 匀唀嘀 氀椀欀攀 椀琀 眀愀猀 琀栀攀椀爀 漀眀渀⸀ This is your AD PrOOF from the OvEr THE MOuNTAiN JOurNAl for the July 16, 2015 issue. Please fax approval or changes to 824-1246.
␀㈀㔀⸀ 伀䘀䘀
Please make sure all information is correct, including address and phone number! Please 䄀一夀 匀䔀刀嘀䤀䌀䔀 伀刀 刀䔀倀䄀䤀刀 initial and fax back within 24 hours.
⨀䴀甀猀琀 猀瀀攀渀搀 漀瘀攀爀 ␀㔀 ⸀ 䌀栀漀漀猀攀 愀渀礀 猀攀爀瘀椀挀攀 愀瘀愀椀氀愀戀氀攀 椀渀 漀甀爀 搀攀愀氀攀爀猀栀椀瀀⸀ if we have not heard from you by 5 pm of the Friday before the press date, 吀栀椀猀 攀砀挀氀甀猀椀瘀攀 漀昀昀攀爀 渀漀琀 瘀愀氀椀搀 昀漀爀 椀渀猀甀爀愀渀挀攀 眀漀爀欀Ⰰ 眀愀爀爀愀渀琀礀Ⰰ 漀瘀攀爀 琀栀攀 your ad will run as is. We print the paper Monday. 挀漀甀渀琀攀爀 猀愀氀攀猀Ⰰ 漀琀栀攀爀 漀昀昀攀爀猀 漀爀 猀攀爀瘀椀挀攀 猀瀀攀挀椀愀氀猀⸀ 䴀甀猀琀 戀攀 爀攀搀攀攀洀攀搀 愀琀 漀渀攀 瘀椀猀椀琀⸀ 䠀愀猀 渀漀 挀愀猀栀 猀甀爀爀攀渀搀攀爀 瘀愀氀甀攀⸀ 䔀砀瀀椀爀攀猀 㠀⼀㔀⼀㔀⸀
Thank you for your prompt attention.
䠀伀䴀䔀 伀䘀 吀䠀䔀 ㌀ 䴀䤀一唀吀䔀 伀䤀䰀 䌀䠀䄀一䜀䔀 倀䰀䔀䐀䜀䔀 匀䔀刀嘀䤀䌀䔀 䠀伀唀刀匀㨀 䴀伀一䐀䄀夀ⴀ䘀刀䤀䐀䄀夀 㜀䄀䴀ⴀ㘀倀䴀 匀䄀吀唀刀䐀䄀夀 㠀䄀䴀ⴀ㔀倀䴀 ⠀㠀㔀㔀⤀ 㠀㜀㠀ⴀ㈀㘀㐀㤀
From left: Ken Jackson and Veronica and Joey Kennedy.
Above: Tracy and Larry Carbonie. left: Tracie and Brian Monson.
efit Shelby Humane Society, which cares for over 5,000 animals each year and serves as the only openadmission animal shelter in Shelby County. ❖
From Maine to Mississippi ACA Celebrates 25 Years of Local Support
With auction packages including trips from Portland, Maine to the Mississippi Gulf Coast, this year’s Garden Art Party benefitting Alzheimer’s of Central Alabama was exciting and successful in raising funds for ACA. A larger than expected crowd poured into Iron City and were welcomed by board members and volunteers. Bob Straka of Grandview Financial Group served as auctioneer for one of the most successful live auctions in the event’s 19-year history. The theme for this year’s event was “ACA is LocAL.” Over the past 19 years, ACA’s Garden Art Party has raised over $2.1 million for local programs and services benefitting Alzheimer’s patients and their families. All of the money raised stays in Alabama to provide much needed services like scholarships for patients to attend adult day care centers or to receive continence supplies. Among those enjoying the party were: Anne and Mike Warren, Scott and Allison Salter, Susan and Greg Womack, John and Louise Beard, Charles Collat, Julie and Scott
Bryant, Terry and Beth Rogers, Marie and Mike Wright, Christine Clark, Lynne and Jerry Roberson, Lindsey and Adam Seal, Lynn Campisi and Mark McGarvey,
Jennifer and Buddy Mancuso, Claude and Frances Bennett, Catherine and Jamie Cato, Sarah and Mike Harfield and Holt and Gretchen Cloud. ❖
Photo special to the Journal
JUNE 1 - JULY 31
More than 140 people attended the sold-out Bark and Wine event benefitting Shelby Humane Society June 13. Held at the Inverness Country Club in Hoover, guests were treated to a club buffet dinner, drinks and a live auction with Ken Jackson. Mayor Stancil Handley of Columbiana served as emcee and updated the crowd on the many successful programs and services at Shelby Humane Society including local adoptions, adoption transports to northern states and programs to reduce overpopulation. Bark and Wine was hosted by Shelby Humane Society Board of Directors members Tamela Seymour, Melissa Brown, Jim Romaker, Michelle Amaral, Shae Hicks, Julie Gibbs, Donna McFeeters and Therena Smith. Board president Robin Adams organized the event. Some of the items won during the silent and live auctions include: a 3-night-stay at Phoenix West II in Orange Beach, dinner and a tour at Stone Hollow Farmstead, an Auburn University basketball autographed by Bruce Pearl, a University of Alabama football autographed by multiple players, a guitar autographed by multiple musicians, a gift certificate to Pampered Pet Resort, Orbix wine glasses and a diamond and white gold necklace from Diamonds Direct. All proceeds from the event ben-
Photos special to the Journal
Shelby County Humane Society Hosts Annual Gala
From left: Stacey Swinney, Sarah Curatella and Annette McCrary.
social
OVER THE MOUNTAIN Journal
Music and Membership
From left: Phyllis Davis and Jonnie Venglik.
The Symphony Volunteer Council of the Alabama Symphonic Association held its annual Meeting and Membership Coffee at the home of Phyllis and Tom Davis May 14. Vice presidents of hospitality Jonnie Venglik and Phyllis Davis greeted the members and their guests and guided them to a delicious display of brunch snacks in the dining room while Tom Davis and Rich Venglik presided over the iced tea, coffee and bellinis. President Mike Griggs asked for announcements from the group. Although the final net proceeds will not be announced until the Masterworks Concert sponsored by the SVC next fall, 2015 Decorators’ ShowHouse chairs Cheree Carleton and Charlotte Clarkson announced that the popular fundraiser for the Alabama Symphony Orchestra was successful due to the efforts of the SVC members, community volunteers and the talented designers. Vice presidents of education Linda Griggs, Mimi Jackson, Debbie Reid and Jody Weston announced the three recipients of the 2015 Lois Pickard Summer Scholarships, which were selected from among six talented young musicians. Caleb Edwards, a student at the Alabama School of Fine Arts and bassist in the Alabama Symphony
Photo special to the Journal
SVC Recognizes 2015 Lois Pickard Scholars
Youth Orchestra, will attend a sixweek music camp at the Brevard Music Center in Brevard, NC. Charles Rennecker, a student at ASFA and a percussionist with the ASYO, will attend three-week Music Horizons program at the Eastman School of Music. Trey Sullivan, a student at ASFA who studies piano with Dr. Lucy DeSa, will attend the two-week precollege piano program at the Sewanee Summer Music Festival in Sewanee, Tennessee. In addition, the SVC executive board approved the vice president of education’s request to award an additional scholarship to Malik Kofi, the principal cellist for the ASYO and the first place strings category winner in the 2015 Lois Pickard Competition. Malik will attend the Meadowmount School of Music in Westport, New York for seven weeks. Griggs introduced Nan Teninbaum who installed the officers for 20152016: Cheree Carlton, president;
Linda Griggs, vice president of education; Mimi Jackson, vice president of education; Debbie Reid, vice president of education; Jody Weston, vice president of education; Phyllis Davis, vice president of hospitality; Sandra Wilson, vice president of hospitality; Betsy Cooper vice president of hospitality; Martha and Bob Black, vice presidents of membership; Diane Ray, recording secretary; Beverly Lisenby, corresponding secretary; Donna McCauley, treasurer; Bob Brown, assistant treasurer; Liz Warren, parliamentarian; and Mike Griggs, immediate past president. Other guests in attendance included: Rosa Minehan, Sandra Annonio, Olivia Weingarten, Debra Gilbreath, Janet Lauer, Tonie Bone, Lu Moss, Kathie Ramsey, Nancy Morrow, Bonnie Ciscio, Mary Jo Nicastro, Marguerite Handler, Sandra Wilson, Emily Omura, Susan Putnam, Lin Musgrove and Boyce and Virginia Guthrie. ❖
Thursday, July 16, 2015 • 19
20 • Thursday, July 16, 2015
home
OVER THE MOUNTAIN Journal
public people private places
A Tasteful Brew
Journal photos by Lee Walls Jr.
Journal photos by Lee Walls Jr.
Andrew Pharo Incorporates Art into His Mountain Brook Home
Andrew Pharo and his wife, Elizabeth, purchased their home in December of 2013 and officially moved in in July 2014 after completing a major renovation and addition to the house. Below Pharo with two of his four children in front of a painting by Merrilee Challiss.
By Emily Williams Andrew Pharo is a partner at Cahaba Brewing Co., a Birmingham brewery founded in 2011. The microbrewery on Third Avenue South near Pepper Place Market cranks out popular local beers like its American Blonde Ale as well as seasonal and specialty beers. To accommodate its growing business, Cahaba Brewing will be moving to a new location in the Continental Gin Industrial Park in Avondale. The move was announced early this year, and construction has already begun. Pharo said the space is right on track and will have new equipment and a new taproom up and running in November. “We are really excited about breathing some new life into the Continental Gin
See brew, facing page
A Nod to New Orleans Bebe Goodrich Uses Roots to Create Comfortable Home
By Kaitlin Candelaria Bebe Goodrich loves a lot of things
about Birmingham. She loves the fact that she can see Vulcan from her back yard and cites it as the main reason she and her husband, Thomas, purchased their Mountain Brook home. She loves that people don’t live as close together as they did in her hometown of New Orleans. She loves that her two sons, Henry and Walter, will be able to walk to school from the day they start kindergarten all the way through junior high school. However, she doesn’t love the city’s coffee selection. Goodrich has always had a thing for coffee. When she was attending college in Virginia, her girlfriends raved about her homemade cold-pressed coffee, which she grew up drinking straight out of her parents’ icebox in New Orleans. So when she moved to the Magic City and realized Birmingham’s coffee quandary, she decided to do something about it. “We started Icebox Coffee in our garage with pantyhose and buckets,” Goodrich See bebe, page 22
Bebe Goodrich, top, shares her Mountain Brook home with her husband Thomas and their two sons, Henry and Walter. The secretary in the sitting room was was designed and built by her great-great-great grandfather. Icebox Coffee began “in our garage with pantyhose and buckets,” Goodrich said, and is now sold in stores throughout the Southeast.
brew,
From previous page
This painting, by local artist She-She, was purchased at the Pepper Place Farmers Market and depicts a Bama Mayonnaise jar alongside a nearly-assembled BLT sandwich. Pharo said the painting suited him perfectly because he loves gardening and thinks his homegrown tomatoes are the best in town.
Journal photo by Lee Walls Jr.
complex,” Pharo said. “Continental encompasses so much of the area’s local history and is a diamond in the rough. Hopefully, Cahaba will be the catalyst that brings Continental back to life.” When Pharo isn’t working with his partners and staff to create their newest microbrew, he escapes to his home in Mountain Brook. Pharo and his wife, Elizabeth, purchased their home in December of 2013 and officially moved in in July 2014 after completing a major renovation and addition to the house. The couple called on AG Designs to aid them in finding funky and unusual furnishings and wall coverings that would fit with the couple’s modern style while still complementing the family’s heirlooms. Though there isn’t any home brewing equipment tucked away, the Pharos have filled their home with four children -- Billy, 7; Mimi, 6; Drew, 3; and Jack, 1 -- and an everexpanding collection of art. “I have always been passionate about art,” Andrew Pharo said. “My father was an accomplished musician and painter, so I grew up surrounded by it.” From grades five to 12, Pharo attended The Altamont School, which he said helped him further his love of the arts -- visual arts in particular. He and his wife, who both come from families who fostered a love of art, have collected an assortment of pieces
Thursday, July 16, 2015 • 21
home
OVER THE MOUNTAIN Journal
‘I have always been passionate about art. My father was an accomplished musician and painter, so I grew up surrounded by it.’ over the years to decorate the walls of their home. The couple’s first piece of art was purchased 12 years ago and is displayed in their kitchen. “My wife and I were engaged at the time, and we wanted to purchase our first piece of art together,” Pharo said. The painting, by local artist SheShe, was purchased at the Pepper Place Farmers Market and depicts a Bama Mayonnaise jar alongside a nearly-assembled BLT sandwich.
Pharo said the painting suited him perfectly because he loves gardening and thinks his homegrown tomatoes are the best in town. The kitchen incorporates accents of red throughout, complementing the red of the tomatoes in the BLT painting. The stove, a Wolf 48-inch gas range with a charbroiler and griddle from AllSouth Appliance, has the brand’s trademark red knobs. A red chandelier hangs over a kitchen nook, complete with a corner booth and red chairs.
While many walls in the house are neutral, the walls of what the family calls the “blue room” are almost navy with a lacquered finish that causes a sheen to reflect the light from the pendant fixture on the ceiling. “The children think the blue room
is boring and only use it as a thoroughfare for hide and seek inside,” Pharo said. The blue room holds its share of art and also displays Pharo’s antique Turkish settee tea bench.
See brew, page 23
2321 Overlook Crest New on the market! Come see this gorgeous home with tall ceilings, custom finishes & an open floorplan that flows beautifully. This 4 bedroom, 3.5 bath home is located in a gated neighborhood, only minutes from UAB/Downtown and more. Zoned for Vestavia Hills schools. Offered at $589,900
Shelley Watkins (205) 222-1817 cell shelleyw@lahrealestate.com www.shelleywatkins.com
2850 Cahaba Road Suite 200 - Birmingham, AL 35223 205-870-8580 - www.lahrealestate.com
22 • Thursday, July 16, 2015
home
This move in ready home in The Ridge is ready for new owners! The property offers 5 bedrooms, two family rooms, open main kitchen, deep lakeside porches, garage and plenty more! The lot is private from the road with plenty of trees, nice yard, seawall, pier, protected swimming and right off the ''big'' water. Other features include wood floors, plantation shutters, granite counters. Contact us to schedule your tour of this and other Lake Martin properties!
Becky Haynie
Broker / realtor (334) 312-0928 Becky@HomeonlakeMartin.com
www.HoMeonlakeMartin.coM
bebe,
From page 20
said. “We used Pepper Place Market to test the concept to see if people liked our product as much as we did. Western Supermarket was our first client, and we now sell Icebox Coffee in grocery stores from Texas to Florida all the way up to Virginia.” Customers can also find Icebox Coffee in Birmingham at Carrigan’s Public House, Brick and Tin, and Paramount. The company moved into the Innovation Depot in Birmingham in August 2012 and now has seven employees. The New Orleans influence that inspired Goodrich to start her own business also inspires her home, which she said is always open for company. “In New Orleans, it’s always about entertaining,” Goodrich said. “We are always ready and willing to receive people. Our bar is always stocked,
‘We are always ready and willing to receive people. Our bar is always stocked, and our pantry is always full. We keep music playing all the time.’
Kathy’s Designer Kitchens, Inc. 1831 29th Ave. S. • Homewood, AL 35209 205-871-9880 • Kathy Owens, CKD, President
©2012 California Closet Company, Inc. All rights reserved. Franchises independently owned and operated.
Designs for every room.
Proud to be your local, family-owned business with over 30 years expertise in custom storage solutions. Call us today for a complimentary in-home design consultation. BIRMINGHAM
709 Third Ave. N. 800.448.1915 CaliforniaClosets.com
and our pantry is always full. We keep music playing all the time. I want to people to feel comfortable the moment they enter our home -- our entire house is a front porch.” Goodrich creates comfort by using unique pieces that have been handed down through both her and her husband’s families. In their sitting room alone, the large secretary that dominates the room was designed and built by her great-great-great grandfather, while the original Herman Miller bar, end table and Eames chair were handed down from her grandmother. Her younger son’s room spotlights two hand painted bed frames that belonged to her godmother. Many of the items have fun stories behind them. A table and chairs came from her husband’s childhood home and are a sister set to the table and chairs in President Andrew Jackson’s childhood home. “We’re eclectic,” Goodrich said. “We have a lot of great pieces, and we’re all about making people feel at home here.” Her eclectic mentality also stems from her time in New Orleans. “New Orleans is such a melting pot of culture with a lot of influences dating back to the Spanish and French influence, and I think our home is similar,” Goodrich said. Goodrich’s parents are Lebanese and English while her husband’s family hails from all over the South. Artwork from New Orleans artists such as Clementine Hunter hangs in almost every room as well, adding bright colors and folky scenes to the backdrop of the Goodrich home. The living room showcases a 1976 Jazzfest advertisement, while her son Walter’s room has riverboat drawings by New Orleans artist Robert Rucker. “I think it’s important to remem-
Contact us to schedule your tour of this and other Lake Martin properties!
Becky Haynie
Journal photos by Lee Walls Jr.
Enjoy Summer 2015 at Lake Martin with Privacy and Plenty to Offer. $895,000
Enjoy Summer 2015 at Lake Martin withOVER Privacy andMOUNTAIN Plenty to Offer. $895,000 THE Journal
Broker / realtor (334) 312-0928 Becky@HomeonlakeMartin.com
ber where you come from and what makes you unique,” Goodrich said. Goodrich said when she was planning out her home, she focused on the concept of functional beauty. “You want the best you can put forth without it becoming overbearing to your lifestyle,” Goodrich said. “Our objective is the same with both our home and our coffee -- we want to create convenience and affordability in your life so that you can take your time and money to do something else besides standing in line at the coffee shop. We look at our house the same way -- how can we maximize our enjoyment here without our house becoming a burden?” Because of that approach, Goodrich said she often focuses more on spending time with family and
Family Furniture An original Herman Miller bar, (above) end table and Eames chair were handed down from Bebe’s grandmother. Her younger son’s room spotlights two hand painted bed frames that belonged to her godmother. A painting done by her son, Henry is displayed prominently in the living room.
friends rather than trying to create the “perfect” home. “My mom gave me the best advice,” Goodrich said. “She told me I could spend every Saturday and Sunday cleaning up after my kids and husband, or I could realize that there’s only so many Saturdays and Sundays we all get to spend together before they grow up.” ❖
Thursday, July 16, 2015 • 23
home
OVER THE MOUNTAIN Journal
her inspiration. The result was an homage to ‘Where the Wild Things Are,’ and we couldn’t be happier with it.” Pharo described the overall feeling of his home as modern, cheery, colorful and inspirational but also just a little bit aggressive. For more information on Cahaba Brewing Co. and its upcoming events, visit www.cahababrewing.com. ❖
Attic Antiques
Journal photo by Lee Walls Jr.
From page 21
“It is one of a kind and was purchased for $75 by my father at an auction house in Five Points South over 50 years ago,” said Pharo. The bench incorporates thousands of wooden pieces that were handcarved and decorated with inlays of mother of pearl. The Pharos don’t just collect art. They also have commissioned paint1 5/7/15 ings to suitfbcaloverthemt.pdf their home.
Pharo said they commissioned a painting by Merrilee Challiss and were so happy with it that they decided to have another made. In the painting, a rainbow of color pops against the black background of the canvas and the neutral shades of a large tree, where Pharo’s children can be spotted climbing and swinging from the limbs in a variety of costumes. “We asked her to capture the animal spirit of each of our four children and incorporate it into a large format painting,” Pharo said. “After a few 3:59 PM hours visiting with the kids, she had
• Antiques • Vintage • Industrial
Art, Paintings, Furniture, Oriental Rugs, Kitchen Items, Bedding
991-6887
1228 Cedardell Lane Vestavia Hills, AL 35216
Over 40 Years Barbara & Buzz Manning
To: From:
Babara Over The Mountain Journal, PHONE: 205-823-9646 To: mikeKanakis FAX: information 205-824-1246 please Call for more wedgworth: 205.365.4344 From: Over The Mountain Journal, PHONE: 205-823-9646 Date: June 2014 FAX: 205-824-1246 Date: This is yourJuly AD PrOOF from the OvEr THE MOuNTAiN JOurNAl for the June 26, 2014 issue. Please fax approval or changes to 824-1246. This is your AD PrOOF from the OvEr THE MOuNTAiN JOurN July 16, 2015 issue. Please fax approval or changes to 82
Please make sure all information is correct, including address and phone number! Please initial and fax back within 24sure hours. all information is cor Please make if we have not heard from you by 5 pm of the Friday before the press date, your ad will run as is. We print the paper Monday. address and phone numbe Thank you forincluding your prompt attention.
Alabama’s Home Lending Experts To: From: Date:
M
Y
CM
MY
CY
CMY
K
Please initial and fax back within 24 hours.
if we have not heard from you by 5 pm of the Friday before the press your ad will run as is. We print the paper Monday.
Patty you for Over The Mountain Journal, phone 205-823-9646,Thank fax 205-824-1246 Nov. 2013
your prompt attention.
This is your aD PrOOF from the Over The MOuNTaiN JOurNal for the Nov. 28, 2013 issue. Please fax approval or changes to 824-1246.
Why Choose FBC Mortgage, LLC?
C
July 18th
Tue.-Sat. 10-4:30 5620 Cahaba Valley Road
The “blue room” holds its share of art and also displays Pharo’s antique Turkish settee tea bench. Pharo’s father paid $75 for it at an auction house in Five Points South over 50 years ago.
brew,
Yard Sale
PleaseBirmingham, make sure allAL information is correct, · National Leading Independent Mortgage Lender with two offices serving including address and phone number!
· Our Loan Officers have over 97 combined years of experience in the Mortgage Industry · Preferred Lender for the Nation’s Top Real Estate Firms and Home Builders
Please initial and fax back within 24 hours.
if we have not heard from you by 5 pm of the Friday before the press date, your ad will run as is. We print the paper Monday.
· Local/In-House Underwriting, Processing, Closing, and Decision Making Thank you for your prompt attention. · Competitive Rates & Extensive Product Options Clay Pierce
Sam Davis
Meg Davies
Susan McCullough
Randy Nace
George Nakos
Mortgage Loan Originator NMLS#594385 205.277.2803 cpierce@fbchomeloans.com www.claypierce.net Mortgage Loan Originator NMLS#196330 205.418.1517 smccullough@fbchomeloans.com www.susanmtg.com
Mortgage Loan Originator NMLS#196489 205.721.8747 sdavis@fbchomeloans.com www.samdavismtg.com Mortgage Loan Originator NMLS#267653 205.277.3286 rnace@fbchomeloans.com www.fbchomeloans.com/rnace
Two Perimeter Park South, Suite 115W • Birmingham, AL 35243
Licensed Mortgage Lender NMLS#152859
Mortgage Loan Originator NMLS#994024 205.277.3287 mdavies@fbchomeloans.com www.megdavies.net Mortgage Loan Originator NMLS#157822 205.994.6034 gnakos@fbchomeloans.com www.georgenakos.com
|
Your Town. Your Home. Your Lender.
2100 SouthBridge Parkway, Suite 250 • Birmingham, AL 35209
food
24 • Thursday, July 16, 2015
OVER THE MOUNTAIN Journal
Cassimus’ New Cookhouse: Sawtooth Will be at Former CVS Site
Journal photos by Emily Williams
A Birmingham restaurateur plans to open a new eatery in Mountain Brook. John Cassimus, owner of Maki Fresh and Jensei Sushi and founder of Zoe’s Kitchen, told the Mountain Brook City Council Culinary that he is negotiating a lease to open Sawtooth Cookhouse at 53 Community News and Church St. in Crestline Village. Events The property is the former site of CVS Pharmacy. Smith’s Variety Toy and Gift Shoppe in March announced that it would occupy the other half of the building. Cassimus’ restaurant could open late this summer. “Our new and exciting concept will be a fastcasual operation that will serve freshly prepared food with emphasis on high-quality and speedy service,” Cassimus said in a letter to city officials. The restaurant will be open daily for lunch and dinner from 10 a.m.-9 p.m. and will seat between 35-40, the letter said.
From left: Les Dames d’Escoffier International’s Birmingham chapter president Angela Schmidt and outreach committee members Linda Godfrey, Deborah Stone, Susan Swagler, Kay Reed and Maureen Holt. Not pictured is committee member Patricia Terry.
Tomato Relish Southern Favorite Is in the Spotlight at First-ever Event
By Donna Cornelius
A
daylong celebration that moves from downtown Birmingham to a Harpersville farm pays homage to the South’s favorite veggie – or fruit. Tomatoes are fruits, botanically speaking. But in the late 1800s, the U.S. government classified them as vegetables for taxing purposes. However you describe these juicy globes of goodness, you should be able to get your fill of tomatoes July 18. The Birmingham chapter of Les Dames d’Escoffier International, a worldwide society of women leaders in food, beverage and hospitality, is teaming up with The Market at Pepper Place and Stone Hollow Farmstead to celebrate Alabama tomatoes with a recipe contest, tastings, appearances by tomato gurus, the Alabama Tomato Festival and a farm dinner. The festivities begin with the Great Alabama Tomato Contest at 10:15 a.m. at Pepper Place right after Chef Chris Hastings of Hot and Hot Fish Club finishes his cooking demonstration. Recipes for the contest had to be submitted by July 4 in one of three categories: appetizers and salads, main courses and desserts. Finalists were notified July 10 and will compete on stage at Pepper Place’s Chef Demo area. Morgan Murphy, television personality and cookbook author, will emcee the contest. Judges will be Cullman County farmer Lawrence Calvert; Carole Griffin, owner of Chez Lulu and the Continental Bakery; and food writer Jo Ellen O’Hara. Tomato breeder Tom Wagner, president of Wagner Seeds, will be on hand to talk about tomato varieties, including his popular Green Zebra. Deborah Stone of Stone Hollow Farmstead also will be there to share information about tomato varieties, efforts to breed diseaseresistant heirloom tomatoes and the importance
of preserving tomatoes as part of the South’s culinary heritage. The tomato immersion continues with the Alabama Tomato Festival from 1-5 p.m. at Stone Hollow Farmstead in Harpersville. Birmingham chefs Angela Schmidt of Chef U and Maureen Holt of Little Savannah
‘We see this tomato celebration as an excellent and tasty way to advocate for local growers, markets and home cooks while educating the public about culinary traditions involving tomatoes.’ Angela Schmidt
Restaurant and Bar will be at the festival to cook up some tomato treats, Deborah Stone said. “You’ll be able to try things like tomato lemonade and tomato aspic,” Stone said. The Little Memphis Blues Orchestra – formerly the Taylor Hicks Band -- will play at the festival, too. Tickets are $20.
For those hungry for even more tomato goodness, a farm dinner with David Bancroft, chef-owner of Acre in Auburn, will begin at 6:30 p.m. at Stone Hollow. “Chris Bennett, our local forager, will forage before the dinner,” Stone said. Bennett will have copies of his new cookbook, “Foraging the Southeast: 120 Wild and Flavorful Edibles from Angelica to Wild Plums” at the event. Murphy will sign copies of his latest book, “Off the Eaten Path: On the Road Again” at the farm and at Pepper Place. The Heavy Hearts band will entertain at the Stone Hollow dinner. Tickets for the dinner are $110 and include a bus shuttle to the farm from The Summit area. Stone said a portion of the proceeds from the Alabama Tomato Festival and farm dinner will go toward seed money for a planned fund that will help farmers. “We’ll make a donation to a new farmers’ fund,” she said. “We hope to be able to provide seed money that will be put into an escrow account.” The fund is expected to help farmers with healthcare and other needs, Stone said. “We want this event to grow and become a big event in years to come,” she said. Angela Schmidt, who’s not only a chef but president of Birmingham’s Les Dames d’Escoffier International chapter, said the tomato jamboree fits LDEI’s mission: education, advocacy, mentoring and philanthropy. “We see this tomato celebration as an excellent and tasty way to advocate for local growers, markets and home cooks while educating the public about culinary traditions involving tomatoes,” Schmidt said. Visit www.alabamatomatofestival.com for more information about the Stone Hollow activities. For details about the Great Alabama Tomato Contest, visit www.pepperplace.com. ❖
On Tap on the Move: Sports Café Has Larger Home at The Galleria
On Tap Sports Café has moved – but not very far. The restaurant just opened its new location at 3340 Galleria Circle, just a few doors down from its former home. The 6,000-square-foot space has large patios and a spacious bar. With 35 televisions, customers should be able to watch pretty much everything happening in the wide world of sports. On Tap owners Craig and Elaine Beegle said they made the decision to move to create a new space that they knew their customers would enjoy. “We think of ourselves as ‘America’s Craft House,’” Craig Beegle said. “We believe our new location truly embodies that concept – the ability to allow our customers to craft their own unique experience each time they visit.” The new location has a pub feel with brick and wood in the interior. The establishment has a large bar area and patio for groups. On Tap features craft alcohol and food offerings. The beer wall holds 100 kegs, the largest of its kind in Alabama, including craft beers and old favorites. On Tap is the only establishment to offer Chimay for $8, its owners said. Chimay beers are produced at Scourmont Abbey, a Trappist monastery in southern Belgium. The restaurant also has craft liquor and wine on tap. The rotating menu items are new takes on American pub favorites. On Tap Sports Café is a family-owned group of restaurants in the Birmingham area specializing in craft beer and sports in a pub-style atmosphere. Other locations are in Inverness, Lakeview and Fultondale. For more information, visit www.ontapsportscafe. com.
A New Neighborhood: Hops & Vine Comes to Homewood
Neighborhood Hops & Vine will celebrate the opening of its new Homewood store with a ribboncutting ceremony July 17 from 5-8 p.m. The retail beer and wine shop also is at 1109 Dunston Ave. in Crestline Park. It offers a wide selection of estate and small production wines, craft beer and draft beer to go. The Homewood store, now open, is at 1712 28th Ave. S. Both stores host weekly wine tastings – on Wednesdays in Homewood and on Thursdays in
See Hops & vine, page 26
Photo special to the Journal
Morgan Murphy will sign copies of his new cookbook, “Off the Eaten Path: On the Road Again,” July 18 at the tomato festival at Pepper Place and Stone Hollow Farmstead.
The Time Is Ripe
Morgan Murphy Is Looking Forward to New Tomato Festival By Donna Cornelius
country and even their family – but not their food.” One of the Birmingham native’s recent cookbooks, “Bourbon & Bacon: The Ultimate Guide to the South’s Favorite Food Groups,” included not just recipes using the two foods but some history about both. There are good reasons that
Morgan Murphy likes digging into the roots of food. “I talk a lot in my books about why we eat what we eat,” said Murphy, a TV personality, food critic and cookbook author. “You can separate people from their religion, their
From Morgan Murphy’s “Bourbon & Bacon: The Ultimate Guide to the South’s Favorite Food Groups”
Annie’s Baked Green Tomatoes Ingredients:
8 large green tomatoes sliced ¼ to ½ inch thick Salt and pepper to taste 2 tablespoons chopped chives ½ cup breadcrumbs 3 tablespoons butter, plus some for buttering the dish ½ cup Parmesan cheese Directions:
Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Butter a 9 x 13 baking dish. Put a layer of sliced tomatoes in the buttered dish. Sprinkle a thin
bourbon and bacon are popular in these parts, he said. “We have corn in the South, so we make bourbon,” Murphy said. “And Southerners didn’t have refrigeration until 60 years ago, so bacon was a way of preserving meat.” While Murphy hasn’t given tomatoes their own cookbook yet, he thinks there’s a logical reason they’re beloved in the South – and not just the southern United States. Antioxidants in tomatoes have been shown to boost protection against the harmful effects of the sun, he said. “Tomatoes help block UV rays, so it makes sense that tomatoes are
eaten in southern cultures all over the world, like southern Italy and Spain,” Murphy said. “They’re part of our DNA.” Health benefits aside, tomatoes just plain taste good, he said. “There’s nothing better than a warm tomato from the garden,” he said. “I have lots of tomato recipes in all my books.” Murphy’s newest book is “Off the Eaten Path: On the Road Again,” the third in his very popular series. The book hit No. 1 on the Publisher’s Weekly bestseller list almost immediately after it came out in May. Fannie Flagg, author of “Fried Green Tomatoes at the Whistle Stop Café,” wrote the introduction to his first “Off the Eaten Path” book. Murphy will emcee the Great Alabama Tomato Contest at Pepper Place July 18. Finalists in a tomato recipe competition will compete on stage at 10:15 a.m. “I’ll be prepared to congratulate the winners and comfort those who lose,” Murphy said. Later that day, he’ll be at Stone Hollow Farmstead in Harpersville for the Alabama Tomato Festival. He’ll sign copies of his latest book at both events. Murphy is salivating at the thought of the 6:30 p.m. farm dinner at Stone Hollow featuring food from Chef David Bancroft at Auburn’s Acre restaurant. “He’s one of the culinary superstars here in Alabama,” Murphy said. “I have David’s recipe for fried green tomatoes with crab and pimiento cheese in my new cookbook.” Murphy said he thinks this firstever daylong tomato celebration is long overdue. “It’s a great event for our city,” he said. “It will be an extravaganza of a day. Anybody who loves tomatoes should come. Anybody who loves food should come.” ❖
Photo special to the Journal
Fried Green Tomatoes
Whisk together 1 large egg, lightly beaten, and ½ cup buttermilk. Combine ½ cup self-rising cornmeal mix, ½ teaspoon table salt, ½ teaspoon pepper, and ¼ cup allpurpose flour in a shallow dish. Cut 3 medium-size, firm green tomatoes into 1/3-inch-thick slices (about 1 ¼ lbs.). Dredge tomato slices in ¼ cup all-purpose flour, dip in egg mixture, and dredge in cornmeal mixture. Pour vegetable oil to depth of ½ inch into a large cast-iron skillet; heat to 375 degrees over medium-high heat. Drop tomatoes, in batches, into hot oil and cook 2 minutes on each side or until golden. Drain on paper towels. Sprinkle hot tomatoes with salt to taste. Makes 6 servings.
Thursday, July 16, 2015 • 25
food
OVER THE MOUNTAIN Journal
layer of breadcrumbs, a thin layer of Parmesan cheese, some salt and pepper, and some chives over the tomatoes. Place a dot of butter on each tomato. Repeat all layers—tomatoes, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, salt and pepper, chives and dots of butter. Bake for 45 minutes to 1 hour. At 1 hour, the tomatoes will be really brown on top and well done; at 45 minutes, they will be lighter brown and firmer. Makes 6 servings. To bake a smaller batch, use a smaller baking dish and reduce time by 10 to 15 minutes.
Submitted by Annie Wright
Southern Gourmet at it's Best LOcATED AT THE TOP OF SHADES MOuNTAIN ON HWy 31, NEXT TO VESTAVIA HILLS cITy HALL, BISTrO V OFFErS ONE OF THE FINEST cuLINAry EXPErIENcES IN BIrMINgHAM!
Open Monday-Saturday 11am-2pm & 5pm-9pm 521 Montgomery Hwy, Vestavia Hills, AL 35216 • (205) 823-1505
Rehab Reality by Julie Martin
Describe Me In One Word
Anyone who has been a part of an interview has probably been asked this. It’s a simple question with an impossible answer. Because an individual is made up of many descriptive qualities such as physical appearance, likes and interests, career choices, spirituality, etc. How do you sum up who they are in one word? Unfortunately for the addict/ alcoholic, it’s not that difficult because many people describe/define them only as the addict/alcoholic. Everything else is negated or a complete wash. Nothing before or after seems to matter. No one seems interested in anything else about the addict/alcoholic: good, bad or indifferent. This automatically puts the person in recovery at a disadvantage. It’s hard to be understood and appreciated for anything else. “Did you see Jane was promoted to Vice President?” “Oh wait, isn’t she an alcoholic?” Nothing about her hard work, loyalty to the job, or the fact that she deserves the promotion matters. Jane is defined by one word... She’s an alcoholic. End of discussion. The program at Bayshore Retreat is designed to guide the recovering addicts through discovery of the good qualities about themselves. The counseling and life skills coaching helps them deal with the reality of a world that continuously judges along with tools to positively deal with those situations and live sober, healthy lives.
850-687-6831
www.bayshoreretreat.com Destin, FL Healing water front setting Licensed & court approved
26 • Thursday, July 16, 2015
Jones Lawn & Landscape
Since 1989 “We can get your yard where you want it to be.” Weed Control • Flower Beds Shrub Care • Hardscapes
Contact George Jones
205-478-4552
Mary Charles’ Doll House New, Collectible Antique Dolls 2820 Petticoat Lane Mtn. Brook Village 870-5544
Open Thur. - Sat. 10am - 4:30pm
food
Taste of the Town
Food, Fireworks Are on the Menu for Boys Choir Fundraiser By Donna Cornelius Some of Birmingham’s most popular restaurants have signed on to participate in this year’s Taste of Birmingham. Chefs prepare food for guests to sample at the annual event, set this year for 6 p.m. July 30 at The Club. The Taste of Birmingham is the Birmingham Boys Choir’s “premier fundraiser,” said BBC Executive Director Margaret Stinnett. “It started five years ago,” Stinnett said. “Over 20 restaurants in the Birmingham area will be joining us again. We will have a jazz band, a silent auction and a special performance by the Birmingham Boys Choir.” After making the rounds at sampling stations, guests can vote for the best savory and best sweet dishes. “Past winners have been Jeremy
Bluff Park WindoW Works
Mary Charlesf Robbins Wood window restoration and repair Over The Mountain 205-823-9646 ph., f SashJournal, replacement, rot repair 205-824-1246, fax f Replace broken and fogged glass May 2010 f Wood insulated, putty glazed, and composite vinyl replacement sashes
This is your AD PROOF from the OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL for the LocaLLy owned and June 3, 2010 issue. Please fax approval or changes to 824-1246. operated
Call 205-542-6094
Please make sure all information is correct, including address and phone number! Please initial and fax back within 24 hours.
If we have not heard from you by 5 pm of the Friday before the press date, your ad will run as is. We print the paper Monday.
Thank you for your prompt attention.
To: From: Date:
Birmingham is a silent auction. “So far, we have some terrific prizes,” Stinnett said. Guests can bid on a private roundtrip flight to the Auburn-Ole Miss football game, dinner for 15 catered and delivered by the Yellow Bicycle Catering Co., and a week at the Sterling Resort in Destin, Fla. “We also are very excited about a starter wine cellar that includes a handmade wine rack with over 30 bottles of
wine to start a fine collection,” Stinnett said. In addition to the Birmingham Boys Choir performance, Shaun Pezant will be at the event with his jazz band, Stinnett said. The evening will end with a bang – literally. “We’ll have a fireworks show off the mountain,” Stinnett said. For tickets and more information, visit www.thetasteofbirmingham.com ❖
About the Birmingham Boys Choir
Downs at Bistro V and Marco Morosini from Silvertron Café with his incredible white chocolate bread pudding,” Stinnett said. Silvertron and Bistro V are returning for this year’s event. Other participants include the Bright Star, the Fish Market on Southside, Gianmarco’s, La Bamba, Michael’s, Ozan Winery, PT’s of Soho, Satterfield’s, Seasons 52 and The View. Other restaurants are likely to join the lineup, too, Stinnett said. “We’re still adding names,” she said. Guests can visit a cash bar for drinks. “We are working with The Club to develop a signature Taste of Birmingham cocktail,” Stinnett said. The cocktail will be the same blue used by the choir, she said. A new addition to the 2015 Taste of
hops & vine, From page 24
Crestline. The tastings are from 5:30-7 p.m. For more information, including announcements about special events, visit www.neighborhoodhopsandvine. net.
Jim Over The Mountain Journal, PHONE: 205-823-9646 FAX: 205-824-1246 May 2015 This is your AD PrOOF from the OvEr THE MOuNTAiN JOurNAl for the A Sweet Tea Deal: Royal Cup Nov. 4 2010 issue. Please fax approval or changes to 824-1246. Acquires Teasy Teas Royal Cup Inc. is adding to its line
Please make sure all information is correct, with the purchase of Teasy Teas. Malone founded Teasy Teas including address and phone number!as Marshall Portsmouth Tea Co. in New England. The company moved to Birmingham in 2012. if we have not heard from you by 5 pm of the Friday before the press date, Royal Cup purchased Teasy Teas, your ad will run as is. We print the paper Monday. which produces artisan teas, in a Thank you for your prompt attention. move to expand the roaster’s specialty offerings, according to a company statement. “We are excited to continue our effort to operate in perfect harmony with consumer demand,” said Robert Cole, vice president of marketing at Royal Cup. “Early on, we pinpointed a notable shift toward tea consumption in the beverage industry, especially with respect to the millennial generation.” The acquisition “not only provides us with an increased catalog of premium teas to meet that demand but also positions Marshall Malone within the organization to help us maintain our upward trajectory in the tea market,” Cole said.
Please initial and fax back within 24 hours.
OVER THE MOUNTAIN Journal
The Birmingham Boys Choir was incorporated in 1973 but actually got its start in the 1930s, said Margaret Stinnett, the BBC’s executive director. The choir’s founder was Coleman Cooper, who heard the Vienna Boys Choir during a trip to Europe and became determined to build a similar choir in Birmingham, Stinnett said. Cooper also studied the history of boys’ choirs, she said. “This tradition of boys and men singing together is over 1,000 years old,” Stinnett said. With 140 members, this year’s choir is the largest in the organization’s history, she said. The young singers range in age from 7-18. They perform internationally as well as close to home. “Our choir just returned from their summer tour of the Czech Republic and Germany,” Stinnett said. “The boys also performed in Regensburg, Germany, at the cathedral where the first boys choir was created in the 900s.” Visit Choir Director Ken Berg’s YouTube channel to see performances by the choir. For more information about the BCC, including performance and audition dates, visit www.birminghamboyschoir.com. ❖
The Teasy Teas website tells the story of how Malone started the company. “Though he was broke and too stubborn or foolish to quit, he emailed his customers to see if they wanted to purchase his tea online,” the website says. The response was overwhelming. He financed the growth of Teasy with money generated from his first week’s sales.” Malone said he spent more than 10 years taking the company from its start to serving over 6,000 consumers, including hotels, inns and cafés across the United States. “This partnership has enabled me to utilize my tea expertise on a much larger scale, and I’m excited to help lead the charge as Royal Cup continues to grow its tea market share,” said Malone, now Royal Cup’s tea category manager.
From Huntsville to Birmingham: Grille 29 Is Coming to Brookwood Village
An award-winning Huntsville restaurant plans to open its second Alabama location at Brookwood Village. Grille 29 restaurant will open in the former McCormick & Schmick’s location, Brookwood Village’s owners said. Grille 29 was named “Best in Alabama” by Trip Advisor in 2013 and has been voted
“Best Restaurant” three times in the annual Taste of Huntsville. Its Grouper Oscar made the Alabama Tourism Department’s list of “100 Dishes to Eat in Alabama Before You Die.” Other popular dishes at the Huntsville restaurant are its Filet 29, a steak wrapped with applewood bacon and topped with gorgonzola; Jumbo Scallops Stuffed with Crabmeat; and Roast Half Duck with orange gastrique and baconroasted Brussels sprouts. Desserts include Chocolate Peanut Butter Truffle and a Trio of Crème Brulee. The Birmingham Grille 29’s home is a freestanding 7,975-square-foot space that will seat some 280 diners. Grille 29 is aiming at a December opening. McCormick & Schmick’s closed in January 2012.
Food on the Go: Ashley Mac’s Opens Third Location
Ashley Mac’s, an Over the Mountain catering and retail food company, has opened its third store. The newest Ashley Mac’s is in Riverchase at 4730 Chace Circle. Owner Ashley McMakin’s other two stores are in Cahaba Heights and Inverness. Each store has a café and take-home food selections called “gourmet to go.” The company also has an extensive catering business. For more information, visit www. ashleymacs.com. ❖
Stone-Given
Margaret Loyd Stone and Samuel Perry Given III were married April 25 at Canterbury United Methodist Church in Mountain Brook. The Rev. Warren Leslie Nash officiated the 6 p.m. ceremony. Scripture readings were provided by Sydney Stevens Weber and Matthew Thomas Helton. A reception followed at the Country Club of Birmingham. The bride is the daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Jeffrey Ira Stone of Birmingham. She is the granddaughter of Mrs. Jerry Nelson Johnson
Singleton-Weaver
Brittany Leigh Singleton and Phillip Glyn Weaver Jr. were married April 25 at Greenville First United Methodist Church in Greenville. The Rev. Stephen Wayne Bunn officiated. A reception followed at Cambrian Ridge in Greenville.
Scott-Fair
Bonnie Jill Kathleen Scott and Raymond Patrick Fair were married May 9 at Brookwood Baptist Church. The 5:30 p.m. ceremony was officiated by the Rev. Timothy
Thursday, July 16, 2015 • 27
Weddings & Engagements
OVER THE MOUNTAIN Journal
of Birmingham, Mr. James Luther Johnson of Huntsville, and Mr. Willis Walton Stone and the late Mrs. Edith Hunt Stone of Birmingham. The groom is the son of Mr. and Mrs. Samuel Perry Given Jr. of Birmingham. He is the grandson of the late Mr. and Mrs. Henry Myron Raley of Montgomery, and Mr. and Mrs. Samuel Perry Given of Birmingham. Given in marriage by her parents and escorted by her father, the bride wore a gown she designed in collaboration with Heidi Elnora. The scalloped bodice was handmade with Italian Alencon lace to the natural waist. The slightly gathered skirt had a delicate organza ruffle detail at the waist that was repeated at the hem. The tiny straps at the bodice finished with a “V” at the back, drawing the eye to a large perfect bow. She wore her mother’s lace-trimmed veil. The bride was attended by her sister as matron of honor, Callie Stone Nash. Bridesmaids were Caroline Carter Given and Margaret Allyn Pratt Given, sisters of the groom; Kaitlin Patricia Barton; Mary Henderson Cole; Sally Claire McKenzie; Anna Page Minor; Virginia Hagan Moore;
Margaret Burg Norton; Rebecca Alexandra Stefanek; Lauranne Cash Stephens; and Jordan Easter Taylor. The groom’s father served as best man. Groomsmen were Robert Sommerville Wilkerson Given Jr., cousin of the groom; Jeffrey Walton Stone, brother of the bride; John Wilson Nash, brother-in-law of the bride; Clayton Lee Bartlett; Roberts Clark Benton; Clay Penton Cook; William Howell Crosby; Virgil Davis Hunt III; James Lawrence Lynde III; Carter Harrison Tucker Jr.; and Warner Sutphen Watkins IV. Flower girls were Ann Harper Nash, niece of the bride, Elizabeth Stewart Ainsworth and Berkley Page Barnes. The flower girls wore dresses previously worn by the bride when she was a flower girl. Ringbearers were Bennett Leslie Barnes and Zachary Tate Barnes. Acolytes were Virginia Grace Gourley and Audrey Rose Johnson, cousins of the bride. Torchbearers were Caroline Brianne Davidson and Leigh Ellen Logan. Program attendants were Elizabeth Lacey Jeffcoat and Katherine Tracy Jeffcoat. After a wedding trip to Little Dix Bay, the couple live in Birmingham.
The bride is the daughter of Mr. and Mrs. William Frank Singleton Jr. of Greenville. She is the granddaughter of Mr. and Mrs. Lyman Waldo Phillips of Fairhope, the late Jack Parmer Golson of Fort Deposit and the late Mr. and Mrs. William Frank Singleton of Letohatchee. The groom is the son of Mr. and Mrs. Phillip Glyn Weaver of Tuscaloosa. He is the grandson of Mr. and Mrs. Alexander Bruce Crenshaw of Birmingham and the late Mr. and Mrs. Welborn Wilson Weaver of Tuscaloosa. Given in marriage by her father, the bride wore her mother’s gown of ivory satin enhanced with pearlembroidered Alencon lace redesigned by Betty Quarles, owner of Lady in Lace in Tuscaloosa. The bride also wore her mother’s full-length veil of illusion edged with matching Alencon lace. She was attended by Amanda
Ashley Rucker and Callie Ruth Ventress as maids of honor. Bridesmaids were Molly Lewis Daly, Sara Elizabeth Howell, Amanda Michelle Janssen, Amanda Barnes Petro, Jennifer Lauren Prendergast, Elizabeth Bailey Slaton, Laura Elizabeth Tucker and Nancy Genevieve Weaver, sister of the groom. Abigail Lee St. Peter, cousin of the bride, served as flower girl. Phillip Glyn Weaver served his son as best man. Groomsmen were John Elton Dill, Joseph Neal Hooper, John Thomas Hugghins IV, Maxie Patton Kizzire, James Lee Davis Knox, Jackson Phelps Partlow, Abner Edward Patton, Spencer Matthew Swan, Joseph Robert Nathaniel Sykora, Donald Edward Walston III and William Perry Singleton, brother of the bride. After a wedding trip to Antigua, the couple live in Tuscaloosa.
Clark. A reception followed in the Signature Room at The Club. The bride is the daughter of Mr. and Mrs. James Stewart Scott III of Mountain Brook. The groom is the son of Ms. Mary Alice Roberts of Gadsden and Mr. James Leon Fair Jr. of Gordo. Given in marriage by her father, the bride wore an A-line gown of tiered ivory vintage lace with a sweetheart neckline, lace cap sleeves and pearl accessories. She wore her mother’s heirloom veil made by her grandmother and also worn by her sister. The bride’s sister, Sherry Scott Pigford, and Kathryn McWane Gaston, both of Homewood, were matrons of honor. Bridesmaids were Paige Dianna Whitt of New Orleans; Susan Elizabeth Whitt of Denver; Camille Caprio Reed of Mobile; Ashley Turner Helveston of
Hoover; and Lindsay Alane Larimer of Mountain Brook. Flower girls were Mary Linnley Scott, niece of the bride, and Alexa Gabrielle Bailey, niece of the groom. The father of the groom was the best man. Groomsmen were Eric Ward Fair of Seaside, Florida; James Stewart Scott IV of Tuscaloosa; Timothy Welles Pigford of Homewood; and Graham Tyler Harkness of Florence. Ringbearers were Daniel Scott Pigford, nephew of the bride, and Joseph Fisher Bailey, nephew of the groom. Katie Hogan and Drew Duncan, cousins of the bride, sang “The Prayer.” After a honeymoon trip to the Dominican Republic, the couple now lives in Hoover.
Talty-Pockman
Mr. and Mrs. Thomas Francis Talty of Hoover announce the engagement of their daughter, Katherine Colleen Talty, to Richard William Pockman, son of Mr. and Mrs. Thomas William Pockman of Scottsboro. The bride-elect is the granddaughter of the late Maj. and Mrs. Hugh Thomas Talty and the late Mr.
Walker-Denton
Dr. and Mrs. Herbert Peyton Walker Jr. of Birmingham announce the engagement of their daughter, Rebekah Ruth Walker, to Andrew “Drew” David Denton, son of Mr.
Toomey-Hennessy
Mr. and Mrs. William Gregory Hamil Sr. of Thomasville, Georgia, announce the engagement of their daughter, Eve Rebecca Toomey, to John Patrick Hennessy, son of Mr. and Mrs. Timothy Cornelius Hennessy Sr. of Birmingham.
and Mrs. Martin Philip Miller, all of Tampa, Florida. Miss Talty is a graduate of John Carroll Catholic High School and a cum laude graduate of the University of Alabama at Birmingham. She received her master’s degree in marketing from the University of Alabama. She was a member of Alpha Gamma Delta social sorority as well as Golden Key and Pi Sigma Alpha honor societies. Miss Talty is employed locally at the American Cancer Society and is on the junior boards for the Exceptional Foundation and the Alabama Ballet. The prospective groom is the grandson of Mr. Harold Beyer and the late Mrs. Helene Beyer of Largo, Florida, and the late Mr. and Mrs. William Pockman of Decatur. Mr. Pockman is a graduate of Scottsboro High School and the University of Alabama. He is employed locally. The wedding will be held in August at Saint Mark the Evangelist Catholic Church. and Mrs. Edgar Peyton Denton Jr. of Birmingham. Mr. Denton is the son of the late Mrs. Cheryl Norris Denton. The bride-elect is the granddaughter of Mrs. Joyce Anne Brown Yancey and the late Mr. Carl Toliver Yancey of Birmingham and Mrs. Mary Lou Goodson Walker and the late Mr. Herbert P. Walker Sr. of Huntsville. Miss Walker is a graduate of Bob Jones University. She is employed in Tallahassee, Florida. The prospective groom is the grandson of Mrs. Peggy Norris and the late Mr. Tim Norris and Mrs. Betty Denton and the late Mr. E.P. Denton Sr., all of Birmingham. Mr. Denton is a graduate of the University of Alabama at Birmingham with bachelor’s degrees in accounting and finance. He is employed in Tallahassee. The wedding will be Aug. 15. The bride-elect is the granddaughter of Mr. and Mrs. Richard Lewis Singletary Sr. and the late Ms. Jean Irons Singletary of Thomasville, the late Mr. and Mrs. Frederick Cornelius Toomey of Auburn and the late Mr. and Mrs. George Beno Hamil of Carrollton, Georgia. Miss Toomey is a cum laude graduate of Auburn University, where she was a member of Alpha Gamma Delta sorority. She is employed at Vestavia Country Club. The prospective groom is the grandson of Mrs. Joseph Edward Sandner Jr. and the late Mr. Sandner of Birmingham and the late Mr. and Mrs. Herman Lamar Hennessy of Decatur. Mr. Hennessy is a graduate of the University of Alabama, where he was a member of Kappa Alpha fraternity. He is employed with Colliers International. The wedding will be Sept. 5.
To have our wedding & engagement forms sent to you, call 823-9646.
Journal photo by Kaitlin Candelaria
schools
Coaching and athletics have been in Rush’s blood his entire life. A three-sport star at Mountain Brook, he quarterbacked the Spartans to a 7-3 record under Coach Robert Higginbotham in 1974. Rush played varsity baseball at the University of Montevallo before beginning his coaching career at Warrior Academy near Tuscaloosa. His path to Pizitz began in 1981, when he got a call from the late Thompson “Mutt” Reynolds, Vestavia’s athletic director and Pizitz’s head football coach at the time.
Rush Job
Pizitz Coach Always Puts Players First By Lee Davis John Rush has coached football at Pizitz Middle School for 29 years. He’s led the Pirates to many victories and numerous league championships but doesn’t know exactly how many. Really. For Rush, winning is important, but it’s not why he chose coaching as a profession. “Not every kid is going to be a big star or even a starter,” Rush said during a break between football camp sessions last week. “Ninety-nine percent of the kids we coach will not play football after high school. So our goal is to see that every kid who plays here has a positive experience and the ones who choose to go on and play at the high school level are prepared to do so.” Rush’s middle school teams have fed the ultra-successful Vestavia Hills High School program for decades, but the veteran coach said the relationship has been a two-way street. “I can’t say enough about how great (Vestavia) Coach (Buddy) Anderson and his staff have been to all of us at Pizitz,” Rush said. “Whenever we have a question, the coaches at the high school go out of their way to help. I can’t imagine having a better working relationship.” The training and intensity for middle school football has evolved over the years. A decade ago, the coaches rarely saw their players during the summer months. Now, middle school players
have off-season workouts, just like those at the high school level. Rush said he uses that opportunity to get to know his charges on a personal level. “To be honest, during the season we are mainly working with the kids that will be seeing the most playing time,” he said. “So I try to use the summer workouts to get to know all the kids, by their first and last names. And I almost always call them by their first name. “If I call a player by his last name during practice, he knows I’m mad,” Rush added, laughing. Rush credits former middle school coaches Dickey Wright of Homewood and David Knott of Mountain Brook for the creation of the Metro South League for the improvement of the game at that pre-high school level. The league includes perennial powers Mountain Brook, Simmons, Bumpus, Berry, Homewood, Oak Mountain and Liberty Park, among others. “Years ago, we played schools we probably should not have been playing,” Rush said. “This league has been good for everybody. If you’re not ready to play, you are going to be beaten. It raised the competition for everyone.” Although middle school students are just a few years away from high school, they have to be treated a little differently, Rush said. “If you have to be critical of a kid in middle school, they tend to take it a little more personally,” he said. “In high school, they are more likely to understand that a coach is getting on
OVER THE MOUNTAIN Journal
them to try to make them a better player. That’s why we constantly remind them that we care about them and anything we do is to try to make them a better player and person.” At age 58, Rush is probably far too modest when he says he doesn’t do much coaching anymore. “We’re blessed with a great staff,” he said. “I try to stay out of the way and let the coaches coach their positions. Everything is a ‘we’ thing with us. I couldn’t do anything by myself.” The Pirates’ staff includes John Wyman, Malcolm Prewitt, Tim McCaleb, Mark Woodruff, Steve Favor, Kent Fullington and trainer David McKenzie. Rush said while he once may have had ambitions of coaching at the high school level, he now believes he has found his calling. “Being a high school coach had its appeal, but I’ve found my niche here,” he said. “Pizitz is where I’m supposed to be.” Coaching and athletics have been in Rush’s blood his entire life. A three-sport star at Mountain Brook, he quarterbacked the Spartans to a 7-3 record under Coach Robert Higginbotham in 1974. Rush played varsity baseball at the University of Montevallo before beginning his coaching career at Warrior Academy near Tuscaloosa. His path to Pizitz began in 1981, when he got a call from the late Thompson “Mutt” Reynolds, Vestavia’s athletic director and Pizitz’s head football coach at the time. “Coach Reynolds asked me what I wanted to do, and I said ‘anything you want,’” said Rush, who was promptly offered jobs as assistant football coach and head basketball coach at Pizitz. Upon coming to the Vestavia school system, the young coach realized almost immediately that he had made the right move. “I had played basketball in high school but didn’t know the first thing about coaching it,” Rush said. “George Hatchett had just become the varsity coach at the high school, and he taught me how to teach man-to-man defense and everything else I needed to know to coach basketball.” In 1986, Reynolds retired as head football coach at Pizitz, and Rush was elevated to the top job. “I owe a lot to Coach Reynolds,” said Rush, who said he also considers Higginbotham and Anderson to be major influences on his coaching philosophy. “He taught me so much about football and life.” Rush said he has no plans to retire. “I work in a great community, with great coaches, parents and kids,” he said. “Why would I want to do anything else?” No matter how long Rush continues to coach, a quotation from the legendary Paul “Bear” Bryant will be one of his guiding principles. “Coach Bryant said that a kid learns things from football that can’t be taught in a classroom,” he said. “As long as we’re doing that, coaching will be worthwhile for me.” John Rush may not know his exact win-loss record, but he surely knows what’s most important. ❖
Shannon Kline, Garrett Rogers and LaRue Frederick of Riverchase Elementary School are among 13 grant recipients.
Photo special to the Journal
Hoover Schools Awarded Over $20,000 in Grants The Hoover City Schools Foundation awarded more than $20,000 in grants during the Hoover Board of Education meeting in June. Twelve Hoover schools submitted more than 40 grant applications. Thirteen were selected to receive funding for the 2015-2016 school year. Grant amounts varied by program. Schools that received grants include Berry Middle School, Bumpus Middle School, Green Valley Elementary
School, Riverchase Elementary School, Rocky Ridge Elementary School, Simmons Middle School, South Shades Crest Elementary School, Spain Park High School and Trace Crossings Elementary School. Program topics range from robotics to art. “Through these grants, the foundation can help promote innovative, unique programs that will benefit the schools,” Steve McClinton, foundation president, said.
Photos special to the Journal
28 • Thursday, July 16, 2015
Hoover High Scholars Bowl Coach Receives National Award Hoover High School Scholars Bowl leader Joshua Rutksy (above) has been recognized by the national quiz bowl organization Partnership for Competition Excellence as this year’s Benjamin Cooper Academic Ambassador. Rutsky, who also teaches AP English, said he was delighted and surprised to hear the news. “It’s entirely about the opportunities and support that I have received from the administration here at HHS and in our community,” Rutsky said. “In Hoover, we expect to be the best. That is what this community deserves.” The team claimed a state championship this year at the Alabama Scholastic Competition Association Tournament. Alabama is also the only state to earn an “A” from national quiz bowl leaders in a recent poll that cited the state’s league recruiting measures, fair tournament structures, questions and multiple quality tournament sites. This award honors those who have made substantial contributions to the spirit and honor of quiz bowl competition, according to national officials.
Homewood’s Chappell Wins CLAS Leadership Award Dr. Patrick Chappell, the director of instructional support for Homewood City Schools, has received the Council for Leaders in Alabama Schools leadership award for his dedication to education. According to officials, the award is presented annually to a CLAS member who has exhibited leadership in his or her affiliate, school system, the education community and at the state level. The winner is chosen by members of the CLAS awards committee and Dr. Patrick Chappell recognized at the CLAS annual convention, where they also are presented with $1,000. Chappell has worked as a teacher and administrator for Homewood City Schools for more than 20 years.
Hoover Resident Nets Perfect ACT Score Hoover resident Adam He recently scored a perfect 36 on his ACT. He, son of Dequan He and Zhongxiao Cong, is a rising senior at the Alabama School of Fine Arts and a member of the math and science department. About 1.8 million students take the curriculum-based achievement exam each year and less than 1 Adam He percent of them score a
C
Morales Receives Smith Scholarship Hoover High School student Geovanny Morales has been awarded the Smith Scholarship Award. The award is presented to students who have demonstrated a desire to give back to others through volunteer work or assistance to family while remaining actively involved in their Geovanny Morales community and school according to Foundation officials. Morales maintained a high GPA before graduating from HHS in May. He was involved in Latinos United and FCA Undivided. He participated in BUSA Soccer Club and the soccer booster club. He is an assistant director at his church as well. On top of all this, Morales often worked 50-60 hours a week during school. “We are elated to have Geovanny as a part of the Smith Scholarship family,” Ahrian Dudley, executive director of the J. Craig and Page T. Smith Scholarship Foundation said. Morales was chosen from more than 1000 applicants. He plans to attend the University of South Alabama this fall to study pre-medicine. In June, he completed Boot Camp I, which is the first of several mandatory Smith Scholarship Foundation training programs.
VHHS’ Copeland Receives Art Award Bradley Copeland, a graduating senior of Vestavia Hills High School, is this year’s recipient of the Vestavia Hills Art Association’s Art Achievement Award. Copeland was selected by professional artists and art educators of the Vestavia Hills Art Association’s scholarship committee. According to committee members, Copeland was chosen due to her drawing ability, the emotion of her artwork and her execution and
Perform Under Pressure
Photos special to the Journal
36. He said he prepared for the test by reading prep books at Barnes & Noble. “I had one of my friends open the letter from ACT for me, and she pretended I did horribly,” He said. “But the moment I saw my score, I felt incredibly relieved and happy that I had achieved my score goal.” He is a member of the math team and student government and participates in tutoring and fencing. When he isn’t at school, he spends time as a teen volunteer and teen leader at the McWane Science Center. Although he is a member of the math and science department at ASFA, He also has interest in the fine arts. “I’m very interested in acting and theater,” He said. “I’m currently set on taking some introductory theater classes next semester.” As far as college goes, He is still exploring his options. With a perfect ACT score, there are plenty of options to explore.
Thursday, July 16, 2015 • 29
schools
OVER THE MOUNTAIN Journal
From left: Dorothy “Dot” West and Linda Smotherman accept presents at a reception honoring their retirement last month.
OLS and Homewood Honor Retired Teacher Dorothy “Dot” West and her long-time teacher’s aide, Linda Smotherman were honored by Our Lady of Sorrows Catholic School and the city of Homewood in May for their service and dedication. West has served as a pre-school teacher for OLS for 47 years. Smotherman has served as her aide for 34 years. To pay tribute, students wore yellow as a sign of new beginnings to the schoolwide Mass hosted in their honor. OLS Pastor Monsignor Martin Muller celebrated the Liturgy and presented West with a engraved plaque. Following the Mass, a reception was held. The city of Homewood declared May 22, 2015 “Dorothy ‘Dot’ West Day.” Lemonade and cookies were served while the two women were presented with special gifts from their students. “Both of these ladies have touched the lives of so many students, giving them their first experiences of being an OLS student,” Mary Jane Dorn, principal of OLS School said. “We are so thankful for their giving so lovingly of themselves over the years.”
Birmingham’s First High Performance Vision Training Center! Help your athlete get a competitive edge by training their Dynamic Visual Skills Professional programs using our techniques include:
The New York Yankees, Texas Rangers, Cleveland Indians, Chicago Cubs, Houston Astros, Boston Red Sox, Indiana Pacers, Brooklyn Nets, San Antonio Spurs, Boston Celtics, St. Louis Rams, Pittsburgh Steelers, Atlanta Falcons, and the New England Patriots. Increasing Visual Skills leads to better performance in any sport: Baseball, Softball, Soccer, Volleyball, Football, Lacrosse, Hockey, Tennis. Our training improves: Focus Flexibility, Eye Tracking, Anticipation Timing, Peripheral Awareness, Visual Reaction Time, Visual Memory, Eye Hand Coordination and Concentration Under Stress.
Call 205-490-1063 for a FREE Demo Sports Vision South is a High Performance Vision and Cognitive Training Center - Learn more at:
www.sportsvisionsouth.com
3055 Lorna Rd Suite 100 • Hoover, AL 35216
To: From:
Sports Vision South Over The Mountain Journal, PHONE: 205-823-9646 FAX: 205-824-1246 June
Date:
Recipients of the 2015 scholarship awards include, from left to right, Jada Elliott, Hannah Beckering, Maya Cook-Stroupe and Charlesy Crocker. This is your AD PrOOF from the OVEr THE MOuNTAiN JOurNAl for the
June 18 2015 issue. Please fax approval or changes to 824-1246.
Homewood Rotary Awards Scholarships
Four Homewood High School students were awarded scholarships totaling $15,000 from the Homewood Rotary Club. The students were chosen based on scholastic and personal achievements and were selected through an in-depth interview process. Recipients include Jada Elliot, Hannah Beckering, Maya Cook-Stroupe and Charlesy Crocker. Since 1983, the scholarship committee has awarded just under $300,000 in college scholarships to over 100 students. emphasis on the eyes and facial expression. Her work was viewed during Vestavia Hills High School’s Student Art Show. The VHAA Art Achievement Award is an annual award of $200 presented to a graduating senior who will continue his or her education in the visual arts, art education or other art related fields. The award is given based on the merits of the student’s apparent artistic talent, academic standing and intended application of the funds received. This year, the award included an additional $100 gift certificate from Alabama Art Supply, Inc. and $50 from Forstall Art Center. Copeland will attend Auburn
University in the fall where she plans to major in interior design and minor in studio arts. She is the daughter of Jeffrey and Ashley Copeland of Vestavia Hills. ❖
OUR 118 YEAR TH
BIRMINGHAM TRUNK
Luggage Business Cases Leather goods gifts
Mon.-Sat. 10-5 2712 19th Street South, hoMewood 870-0971
Please make sure all information is correct, including address and phone number! Please initial and fax back within 24 hours.
if we have not heard from you by 5 pm of the Friday before the press date, your ad will run as is. We print the paper Monday.
Thank you for your prompt attention.
30 • Thursday, July 16, 2015
sports
OVER THE MOUNTAIN Journal
OTM Athletes Headed for All-Star Games By Tyler Waldrep
Photo special to the Journal
It’s been a good year for local athletes, and for some the year is not over yet. Several Over the Mountain rising seniors have been selected by the Alabama High School Athletics Association to compete in the annual All-Star games. The last time these athletes competed, some of them became state champions, some fell just short and others did not come all
‘I just love the opportunity to play another game. (In this game) you are with everyone who loves the game and that’s when you get better.’
(boys)
Football
July 22 at Alabama State’s Acadome North Jack Kline: Mountain Brook The team will be coached by Oak Mountain’s Chris Love
July 17 at the Crampton Bowl North Maurice Mayo: Homewood Softball
Journal file photo by John Michael Simpson
that close. Despite how their teams finished, all of these athletes now have opportunities to show off their talents before they begin their senior seasons. Mountain Brook’s Jack Kline is used to playing against talented opponents after playing in three consecutive basketball state championships. Kline said he was forced to elevate his game this past season as he became the go-to guy. “It put a little more pressure on me, but I don’t think it affected my play,” Kline said. “It just motivated me to play to the standard that I hold myself to.” Kline’s coach, Bucky McMillan, said Kline’s drive separates him from the other players on the court. He also said he believes Kline has the versatility to do whatever the situation requires. With potential like that, rest is not easy to come by, so it’s a good thing Kline has that extra gear. “You watch Kline play and you
Vestavia Hills High School soccer player Lindsay Copeland is one of four OTM girls selected to play in the AHSAA All-Star game.
July 21 at Lagoon Park North Kynadi Tipler: Spain Park South Chloe Yeager: Indian Springs
Soccer (boys)
July 21 at the Emory Folmar Soccer Complex North Dylan Bowen: Mountain Brook Hunter Holstad: Oak Mountain Ben Kehoe: John Carroll Partick Morton: Vestavia Hills Anthony Pack: Indian Springs
Baseball
Mountain Brook’s Jack Kline is used to playing against talented opponents after playing in three consecutive basketball state championships.
think it’s a man out there,” McMillan said. “He plays with such confidence and such toughness that it’s contagious to our team.” Kline is not the only athlete looking forward to the All-Star games. Vestavia Hills High School soccer player Lindsay Copeland also was excited by her selection.
“I just love the opportunity to play another game,” Copeland said. “(In this game) you are with everyone who loves the game and that’s when you get better.” Her coach, Brigid Littleton, said Copeland’s defensive play resembles a wall. She said Copeland’s ability to stop other teams dead in their tracks
often changed the momentum of the game. “We took more chances up at the top (with her anchoring that defense),” Littleton said. On the field, Copeland’s competitive nature took over. She became the vocal leader for the team’s defense, and her instincts helped her create opportunities for herself and others to make plays. Copeland said she believes she plays her best when the odds are stacked against her. She said she always plays to win no matter the score. “I’m one of those people that, no matter how far down we get, I’m not going to give up,” Copeland said. ❖
July 21 at Riverwalk Stadium North John Hartman: Mountain Brook Robert Potter: Vestavia Hills
(girls)
Basketball (girls)
July 21 at the Emory Folmar Soccer Complex North Lindsay Copeland: Vestavia Hills Alexandra Dunn: Oak Mountain Anna Frierson: Homewood Rachel Motamed: Indian Springs
July 22 at Alabama State’s Acadome North Kendra Langham: Hoover Jailyn Maddox: Hoover
Great Expectations Homewood High School Soccer Player Recognized as One of the State’s Best Homewood varsity soccer player Anna Frierson has her sights set on the goals in front of her. Frierson said she wants to play the sport she loves at the highest level, and she doesn’t want to disappoint herself by not putting in the work to get there. “I just have to stay focused on what my goals are,” Frierson said. “Pretty much everything I do is around those goals.” Some of her goals, such as earning a spot on Auburn University’s team when she graduates, already have been accomplished. Recently Frierson was able to check even more things off her list. The National Soccer Coaches Association of America just selected Frierson to be on Alabama’s AllState team. She became the first Homewood girl to receive that honor in 10 years. She also recently was selected by the Alabama High School Athletic Association to participate in the annual North-South All-Star game
on July 21. Frierson’s coach at Homewood, Nathan Carlson, said he was not surprised with the attention Frierson has received recently. He said she always pushes herself to meet her own high expectations. “She never has a day where she is lethargic or where her mind is someplace else,” Carlson said. Frierson doesn’t just work hard during the regular season. During the off-season she practices and competes with a club team, Birmingham United ECNL (Elite Clubs National League), that brings together some of the state’s best players. Frierson said her experiences competing against other talented teams from around the country have challenged her to improve. Not all of those challenges involve a soccer ball, though. With club games sometimes occurring in places such as Seattle and New York, Frierson does miss school. She said it can be tough to catch up with her studies, but all of the hard work is worth it in the end. Her efforts seem to be paying off.
Frierson said she was honored by both selections, and she is looking forward to playing alongside some of her club teammates in the North-South game. “I think getting more playing time
is great,” Frierson said. “I get to play against some of the best players that play high school soccer in Alabama, which is pretty awesome.” Carlson said that he remembers
Photo special to the Journal
By Tyler Waldrep
The National Soccer Coaches Association of America just selected Anna Frierson to be on Alabama’s All-State team. She became the first Homewood girl to receive that honor in 10 years.
when, in his opinion, Frierson earned those honors. He said her play’s “fluid creativity” and “grace” took control of what ultimately became a 1-0 loss to Spain Park. “Even players on the other team and parents from Spain Park were kind of oohing and ahhing as she was completely tricking people out,” Carlson said. “She had her way with them. There was nothing they could do to stop her. Every time she got the ball, she made people look foolish.” That loss doesn’t have to be a defining moment of Frierson’s Homewood career. She said she wants to come back even better next year. One of her goals is to help her team have more success in the post season. Carlson said he thinks Frierson’s example can help Homewood soccer even after she leaves. Her senior year could give future girls a visible standard going forward. “Anna’s kind of (an) inspiration for future Homewood soccer players,” Carlson said. “(Having one more year) allows her to solidify a legacy.” ❖
From page 32
tournament and made only one bogey. Characteristically, Martin saved his best efforts of the season for last. He shot rounds of 68 and 71 prior to the state championship tournament. “It was a nice way to end my career at Spain Park,” Martin said. “This will give me confidence for the summer and fall.” Martin had never seen the Magnolia Grove course before coming to Mobile the day before the tournament. “My dad and I drove down on Sunday and took a look at the course,” he said. “That helped me be aware of any potential trouble areas.” After shooting a 68 in the first round, Martin sensed the second round might be special. “I was hitting the ball solidly,” he said. “So I felt pretty good going into the second round.” Martin said that Magnolia Grove
‘This means a lot, particularly when you stop to consider all the great athletes from all the sports in this area. I’m proud to represent Spain Park and my teammates.’ became one of his favorite courses. “What I liked best was the fact that I played well there,” he said, laughing. Winning the state individual championship capped an impressive season for Martin, who averaged a red-hot 71 in all his tournament rounds in 2015. As an underclassman, he helped Spain Park win three consecutive AHSAA team championships in 2012-14. There’s an old bromide that says a golfer’s brain is 90 percent of the reason for success in the sport. If that’s the case, Martin certainly has the right stuff. And that success also earned him the honor of being named the 2014-15 Over the Mountain Boy Athlete of the Year. Mountain Brook volleyball/basketball standout Sara Carr was named the 2014-15 Over the Mountain Girl Athlete of the Year.
Davis,
From page 32
reach black ex-Vestavia athletes. “It’s a sensitive issue for a lot of people,” said Landon Crowder, a three-sport star for the Rebels who graduated last spring. “All I know is that when I’m 50 years old and think back on the good times of high school, I’ll always think of myself as a Vestavia Rebel.” Crowder said he never heard the issue discussed in the locker room or at school by either white or black athletes. “There was no conversation about it as far as I know,” he said. “Nobody thought anything about it. We were teammates and Rebels. That’s just who we were.” Martin Maners was a standout linebacker for Vestavia in the
Spain Park golf coach Brian Carter attributes Martin’s excellence to two old-school traits: hard work and attitude. “Patrick is very deserving of this award. He’s a tireless worker on the golf course and is always looking to improve,” Carter said. “He doesn’t mind working to get better. Patrick has been part of our program for four years and was a great leader from the beginning.” Carter praised Martin’s driving and putting skills but said his best asset may be between his ears. “Patrick’s strongest suit is management of the course he’s playing,” Carter said. “He really studies the courses and is a smart golfer. He doesn’t make many mental mistakes.” Carter said Martin showed his golf intelligence in the state tournament. “Patrick used his three-woods and irons so effectively that he didn’t need to use his driver all the time as so many kids tend to do,” he said. “He plays his strengths to the course.” Martin, who had already been named Boy Golfer of the Year by the Downtown Kiwanis Club, said the OTM Athlete of the Year honor was special. “This means a lot, particularly when you stop to consider all the great athletes from all the sports in this area,” he said. “I’m proud to represent Spain Park and my teammates.” Martin also received the Bradley Johnson Award as Spain Park’s top golfer. Carter said Martin is just as impressive away from the golf course as he is on it. “He’s just a real classy guy,” the coach said. “Patrick isn’t really interested in being in the limelight. He doesn’t say a whole lot, but when he does talk, what he says is important.” Martin, who plays out of Riverchase Country Club, shot his bestever round of 63 on his home course. He’s no slouch in the classroom either, graduating with a 3.99 grade point average. “You can sum up Patrick’s career by saying he always did things the right way,” Carter said. And doing things the right way made Patrick Martin the 2014-15 Over the Mountain Boy Athlete of the Year. ❖ 1980s. He said he believes the nickname and mascot should remain. “I don’t see why the term ‘Rebels’ should have a negative connotation,” Maners said. “The founding fathers of our country rebelled against the British. Being a rebel is a good thing. There’s nothing racial about it.” Maners pointed out that Woodlawn High School – which is predominately black – has a mascot similar to Vestavia’s. “The Woodlawn Colonel looks a lot like the Vestavia Rebel,” he said. “The Rebel Man is a Southern gentleman in a tuxedo with a cane. A cartoon character, basically. I don’t know why that would be offensive.” Political correctness might not stop with Vestavia, Maners added. “Pizitz Middle School is called the Pirates, and Hoover High School is the Buccaneers,” he said. “Don’t people know all the terrible things pirates
And like all great athletes, Carr was at her best when the stakes were highest. She produced 16 kills in Mountain Brook’s 3-1 upset of Hoover in the championship finals. The Lady Bucs had defeated the Lady Spartans twice in the regular season. Although Carr was named state tournament MVP, she insisted on tossing credit in other directions. “This is a cliché, I know, but our victory was truly a team accomplishment,” Carr said. “Volleyball may be the most team-oriented sport of all. We had a great team spirit from beginning to end, and we were determined to win the state title. We’re already talking about doing it again next year.” Carr also shared the Over the Mountain Volleyball Player of
the Year award with John Carroll Catholic’s Kelsi Hobbs and was chosen as Gatorade Volleyball Player of the Year for Alabama. Carr’s run of excellence didn’t end on the volleyball court. As a basketball forward, she averaged 20 points and 10 rebounds a game in leading Mountain Brook to a 19-11 record and a postseason playoff berth. “I don’t get quite as stressed about basketball as I do volleyball,” Carr said, laughing. “But I do really like to win, no matter the sport.” Her accomplishments are impressive enough to earn her the distinction of being named the 2014-15 Over the Mountain Girl Athlete of the Year by the Over the Mountain Journal. Spain Park golf standout Patrick Martin was named the Over the Mountain Boy Athlete of the Year. “It’s really stunning to be named Athlete of the Year,” Carr said. “But
that also makes it so important to emphasize that anything I achieved couldn’t have been done without support from my teammates, coaches, the school administration and our entire community.” She also had special words for Mountain Brook striker Sara Chandler Mitchell, her teammate and close friend. “Sara Chandler is one of my best friends,” Carr said. “I couldn’t have had as many kills as I did without her.” Carr’s coaches probably rank among her greatest fans. “Sara is a special player,” said Lady Spartan volleyball coach Haven O’Quinn. “She’s a fun player to coach because she is never satisfied with her game. Sara is intense and competitive – and at the same time very humble. She is a great leader both on and off the floor and is very deserving of this honor.” Mountain Brook basketball coach Mark Cornelius said Carr’s work habits may be the secret to her success. “Sara’s work ethic is unparalleled,” he said. “Her selfless play makes her a joy to coach. Sara is truly an amazing young lady.” Incredibly, the best may still be ahead for Carr as she prepares for her senior season. In volleyball she already holds the school career record for most kills with 1,434. She is second for career digs with 956 and well within striking distance of the top spot. Her priority, of course, is bringing home another blue trophy next season. “There would be nothing sweeter than winning another state championship in volleyball,” she said. “I’d like to see us go further in the basketball postseason, too.” Carr’s college plans are already set. She will play volleyball at Emory University in Atlanta and major in chemical engineering in 2016-17. “You could say I like math,” she said, laughing. And when you do the math, it’s obvious that Sara Carr is a deserving choice to be 2014-2015 Over the Mountain Girl Athlete of the Year.❖
did? And Mountain Brook is called the Spartans. The original Spartans did bad things, too. But those schools have taken those names and made them something positive. Where is this madness going to end?” Maners said there was no division on the issue among racial lines during his playing days. “We had numerous black teammates, and we all bonded together,” he said. “We were like a band of brothers. Skin color didn’t matter. We were Vestavia Rebels.” Rick Needham, who played on Vestavia’s first state championship football team in 1980, agreed with Maners that the Rebel nickname shouldn’t have a negative implication. “If you look at history, many of its heroes were considered rebels at the time,” Needham said. “George Washington, Martin Luther King Jr., Gandhi and many others. One thing
they had in common was that they all fought against tyranny. It’s not a bad thing to be a rebel.” Needham expressed concern that the school and its students were being used to perpetuate a larger political agenda. “It’s not right to pick on high school children,” he said. “Why would the city of Vestavia Hills want to ban the mascot of the high school knowing the great tradition and heritage of the Rebels? It’s a stretch to make a negative thing out of a high school mascot and order them to change because of political pressure. I hope the community in Vestavia will rally around the kids and show them the spirit of a true Rebel.” Maners said the debate overshadows the many positive traits of his alma mater. “It doesn’t make sense to be arguing about a mascot and nickname
when everyone agrees that Vestavia offers an incredible academic and athletic environment for kids, regardless of their race,” he said. Obviously there are many – including former Vestavia athletes – who don’t agree with Crowder, Maners and Needham. I don’t know what the final outcome of this controversy will be, but it’s safe to say that whatever happens there will always be some unhappy people. The Vestavia Hills school system is one of the finest in Alabama. Countless parents across the state would make virtually any sacrifice for their children to receive the opportunities that an education from Vestavia schools provides. So the fact that a debate over a mascot and nickname is creating such bitter divisions within the city and the system may be the greatest tragedy of this story. ❖
Journal file photo by Marvin Gentry
martin,
Thursday, July 16, 2015 • 31
sports
OVER THE MOUNTAIN Journal
Sarah Carr was at her best when the stakes were highest. She produced 16 kills in Mountain Brook’s 3-1 upset of Hoover in the championship finals.
carr,
From page 32
Sports
OVER THE MOUNTAIN Journal
Thursday, July 16, 2015
Local Athletes Headed for the All-Star Games. Page 30 Homewood High School Soccer Player Recognized as One of the State’s Best. Page 30 lee davis
2014-2015 over the mountain athletes of the year
Rebel Rousers
Journal photos by Marvin Gentry
Former Vestavia Athletes Support Nickname, Mascot
Sara Carr is a two-sport star at Mountain Brook High School and helped lead the Lady Spartans to their first-ever Class 7A volleyball title.
Carr Quest
Lady Spartan Star Chosen as Top Girl Athlete
Patrick Martin won the state low medalist championship by an astonishing seven strokes in the AHSAA’s Class 7A golf championships in May.
Watch the Birdies Spain Park’s Martin Named Top Boy Athlete
By Lee Davis
By Lee Davis
Believe it or not, Sara Carr’s introduction to volleyball came comparatively late in life. “I started playing basketball in first grade, but I was in seventh grade when I first played volleyball,” she said. “The skill set is a little different, so I probably wasn’t physically ready to play volleyball any earlier than that.” Maybe not, but her volleyball talents caught up quickly. By the time Carr reached Mountain Brook High School, she was a classic two-sport star. Ironically, the sport she started last became the one she loved the most. “I really enjoy playing basketball,” Carr said. “Volleyball is my passion.” Carr’s passion served her well last season. The junior outside hitter had 648 kills with 513 digs and 81 aces in leading the Lady Spartans to their first-ever Class 7A volleyball title.
Spain Park’s Patrick Martin isn’t a fellow who enjoys talking about himself. He’d much rather let his golf game serve as his voice. And Martin, who is headed to Vanderbilt University this fall, used his golf game to speak more loudly than ever at the Alabama High School Athletic Association Class 7A championships at Magnolia Grove Falls Course in Mobile in May. After firing a three-under-par 68 on the difficult course on the first day, Martin followed that with a six-birdie, 12-par effort in the second round to shoot a sizzling six-under-par 65. His combined two-day total of 133 clinched the state low medalist championship by an astonishing seven strokes. Martin also tied an AHSAA record for best 36-hole total. His game was so dominant that he missed only four fairways in the entire
See carr, page 31
See Martin, page 31
Normally June and July are comparatively quiet months for high school athletics. For Vestavia Hills in 2015, nothing could be further from the truth. The tragic murder of nine black people in a Charleston, South Carolina church last month has triggered an intense national debate about the display of flags and symbols of the Confederate States of America. Driven in large part by local and national media, the discussion has trickled all the way down to mascots and nicknames of high school athletic teams – including the Rebel mascot that has represented Vestavia since the school opened its doors in 1971. Vestavia administrators discouraged the waving of the Dixie flag – wrongly thought by many to be the official flag of the Confederacy – at school athletic events more than a decade ago. That wasn’t enough for some, who see the Rebel mascot – known as Rebel Man — and nickname as symbols of racism and slavery. A public hearing was held on the topic before a jam-packed room of citizens at a Vestavia Hills City Schools Board of Education meeting last week. No decision was made by the board at that time. I contacted three former Vestavia athletes to gauge their opinions on the nickname and mascot, and while all respected those with differing views, each believed that the 44-year traditions should be retained. All three of these former athletes are white. I was unsuccessful in several attempts to See davis, page 31
Beautifully designed homes, highly-ranked schools, swimming, parks, and a family-friendly neighborhood await. Welcome home.
(205) 945.6401 | libertypark.com
All information contained herein deemed accurate but not warranted. Liberty Park Joint Venture, LLP, Liberty Park Properties, and their respective builders and agents, are not responsible for errors or omissions. Plan information subject to change without notice.