July 29, 2010 Over the Mountain Journal by Over the Mountain Journal

OVER THE MOUNTAIN

J O U R N A L THE SUBURBAN NEWSPAPER FOR MOUNTAIN BROOK, HOMEWOOD, VESTAVIA HILLS, HOOVER, AND NORTH SHELBY COUNTY JULY 29, 2010

Back to School: The Beat Goes On

Hand-In-Paw gets ready for its 10th Picasso Pets set for Aug. 14. The event celebrates the pets and programs of Hand-In-Paw. See About Town, page 3.

Homewood High School is beating the battle of the bulge with its Wellness Program. See Life, page 8.

It’s that time of year again, back to school. See what’s in store for Over-the-Mountain students when they head back to the classroom in just a few short weeks. From new technology to administrators and more, there’s lots going on in the over the mountain schools. Above, Homewood High School 10th grader and marching band member Katy Rada gets ready for the new year at band camp at the school. Homewood heads back to school Aug. 9. Right, Vestavia Hill High School Principal Cas McWaters holds the Blue Ribbon School plaque, one of three top honors the school earned recently. Vestavia students will start school Aug. 12. See Schools, page 19.

The Ronald McDonald Heart of the House gets geared up for its annual House Gala with a preparty get together. See Social, page 10

2 • THURSDAY, JULY 29, 2010

CONTENTS/OPINION

OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL

MURPHY’S LAW

OTMJ.COM

here’s lot’s more to see at otmj.com this week. From more pictures to events going on throughout the area, and more go to otmj.com for your daily dose of the Journal. Here are just a few things to check out: • See how Homewood native John Hudson, pictured above, is helping churches here and abroad through his new ministry, 100 Fold Studio, which helps churches and other non-profit organization with designing their buildings at a reduced rate. • Browse through more photos from this issue’s social events and upload your own to share at otmj.com. • Follow us on Facebook. • Check out our events calendar to see what’s going on around the over the mountain area. • Watch a video from the Mountain Brook School system’s summer technology conference and see what teachers there are so excited about. • Join the conversation. Let us know what you think, about everything. From social events in the area to back to school news and more. We want to here from you.

Next issue: Homes that have been made over, both inside and out as well as the latest trends in home furnishings.

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

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WEDDINGS SCHOOLS SPORTS

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July 29, 2010

Publisher: Maury Wald Editor: Laura McAlister Features Writer: Donna Cornelius Office Manager: Christy Wald Editorial Assistant: Stacie Galbraith Sports: Lee Davis Contributors: Susan Murphy, Jordan Wald, Emil Wald Advertising Sales: Suzanne Wald, Julie Trammell Edwards, Tommy Wald Editorial Intern: Crystal Carr Vol. 18, No. 14

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

Let ‘Em Rip

As students, we were there to take things in. Even K kids, I know what art class usually consisted of coloring in ditto sheets you’re thinking. (Xerox’s Dark Age cousin) where the lines were You’ve barely gotten your swimsuits wet and already drawn. We could select the crayons we used from our issued 24, but if our blue-line holiday charthe stores are stacked with back to school supplies. acters consistently came out in shades of gray, somePen, pencils, glue sticks, one would alert the school psychologist. spiral notebooks. The sun Every once in a while, however, during an unexis still shining on the pool pected overrun of time or classroom supplies, the deck and already your teacher would hand us a blank sheet of manila paper backpack weighs heavily and say, “Draw whatever you want.” Freedom at last! upon your shoulders. Some kids got right to work, scrubbing out a Susan Murphy Summer is too short. cheery house and family, a bouquet of flowers, a hot That’s true. But, in a quiet rod car. I sat frozen in place. All that paper. All that sort of way you might actually space. There were no lines, no be looking forward to your first rules, no clear cause-and-effect day back at school. Things went Look around. The world is expectations. I could draw whatI wanted to. well last year and you want to desperate for new thoughts, everTrouble was, I had no idea what keep the momentum going. Or, if last year wasn’t your best, new approaches. Let ‘em that might be. I’d become expert at in information and spitting you may be anxious to reboot, rip. I’ll give you another taking it back, but this was something get a fresh start. Of course, you could also be piece of paper if you need else entirely. Oh sure, if pressed, I had a dreading that first bell. You’ve one. I promise. few fun ideas floating around in a heard horror stories about your secret stash in my brain, but which teacher. She’s crabby, she piles one to choose? I had a single sheet on the homework and you have of paper. If I messed up, I wouldn’t be given another. no idea how you’ll ever get through (shudder) fractions. The pressure was too much for me. Sometimes I did I know what you mean. nothing at all. Once I hit creative writing class, I was Back during the Dark Ages when I was in school, OK. There, bad first drafts were part of the program. I spent every First Day Eve in total panic. I’d leaf It was expected that you would require more time and through my tower of textbooks and think ... I’m never paper to edit and change. Everything worked out. going to be able to do this. Never. Still, while I was in the checkout line picking up But I did. Blessedly, it turned out no one expected another gross of erasers, I looked with awe at the brave me to conquer the entire stack overnight. One indentsouls carrying blank stretched canvases, knowing that at ed paragraph, one set of end-of-the-chapter questions some point they would simply pick up a paintbrush and at a time. Stay in step, cipher and decipher, fill in the let ‘er rip. I guess what I’m trying to say is ... Don’t blanks, memorize the spelling words, close your eyes let the vast manila expanses of the new year scare and visualize the borders of all those wacky European you. You can do this. Fill in the blanks when required, countries. but don’t shy away from filling people in on your own It could be done. After all, the correct answers were ideas as well. Look around. The world is desperate for printed in ink in the back of the great teacher’s manunew thoughts, new approaches. Let ‘em rip. I’ll give als. All I had to do was transfer those pre-set pixels to you another piece of paper if you need one. my brain. I promise. ❖

OVER THE MOUNTAIN VIEWS

Teachers tell the best way to prepare kids for the first, first day of school

“Start two weeks ahead of time getting them back into the school schedule. Give them a bedtime and wake them up when school starts.” Andrea Timberlake, First Grade, Bluff Park Elementary

“Read to your child.” Laura Bannon, Kindergarten, Bluff Park Elementary

“All of the fourth-graders made a ‘Summer Checklist Bookmark’ to remind them of things they could do over the summer to keep their brains active!”

“Just be happy and make them feel like they’re going to big school, and it’s going to be great. Talk to them about how much fun it’s going to be and all the friends they’ll make.”

Caroline Adams, Fourth grade, Bluff Park Elementary

Addie Hatton Kindergarten, Vestavia Hills East Elementary

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A Dog-Gone-Good Cause

THURSDAY, JULY 29, 2010 • 3

Picasso Pets Celebrates 10th Year

Hand-In-Paw’s Annual Picasso Pets will be Aug. 14 at the Cahaba Grand Conference Center. This year marks the 10th anniversary of the fundraiser that showcases not only Hand-In-Paw’s appreciation for animals, but also to celebrate their ability to help people have a brighter day, heal and realize their potential. The evening will begin at 5:30 with heavy hors d’oeuvres and access to an open bar. Guests will have the opportunity to browse the Picasso Pets silent auction, followed by the live auction. There will be 40 live auction items comprised of the pet paintings, vacations and more. Presentations will also be made by those whose lives have been enhanced by the positive effects of the Animal-Assisted Therapy Teams. At the evening’s close guests will have the opportunity to donate money straight to Hand-In-Paw’s programs. Tickets are $150 and can be purchased at www.handinpaw.org.

Run Aids Fishermen Hurt By Oil Spill

An upcoming Village to Village run in Mountain Brook will raise funds for Gulf Coast charter boat fishermen who are struggling to make ends meet due to the Gulf of Mexico oil leak. Sprint for the Spill will be July 31. A 10K run starting in Mountain Brook Village will begin at 7 a.m. in the Western Supermarket parking lot. A one-mile fun run, also starting in the Western parking lot, will begin at 8 a.m. Entry fee is $25. Drinks and snacks will be provided after the race in the

Getting ready for the 10th annual Picasso Pets are from left: Shelly Shook with Lucy and Laura Lavender with Lula. Journal Photo by Laura McAlister

Western parking lot. Register July 30 at Another Broken Egg Cafe in Mountain Brook Village or online anytime at www.sprintforthespill.com.

NEH Chairman to Speak at Samford

Jim Leach, National Endowment for the Humanities chairman, will speak at “Civility in a Fractured Society,” a July 29 forum at Samford University’s Brock Recital Hall. The reception will begin at 6 p.m., followed by the speech and discussion at 7 p.m.

After serving for 30 years as a Republican member of the U.S. Congress, Leach was appointed by President Barack Obama to chair the NEH, an independent federal agency. There is no charge for this public event, but reservations are required and may be made online at http://tinyurl. com/35fyy5m. The program is sponsored by Samford University’s Frances Marlin Mann Center for Ethics and Leadership, the Alabama Humanities Foundation and the Birmingham Area Consortium for Higher Education. ❖

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4 • THURSDAY, JULY 29, 2010

Bridal Show Spotlights Wedding Trends, Ideas

Perfect Wedding Guide and Engaged Wedding Library will host their third annual SoHo Bridal Show Aug. 8 from 1 to 4 p.m. at SoHo Square’s Rosewood Hall. Guests can experience wedding receptions with five different themes: Fresh, Flirty, Funky, Fabulous and Fantasy. More than 50 of Birmingham’s wedding professionals will offer cake and food tastings, wedding

ABOUT TOWN

gowns and trends in invitations and floral design. Southeastern Attractions will sponsor music on the patio. Travel Planners of Mountain Brook will give away a romantic getaway for two, and the first 100 brides to pre-register online at www.SoHoBridalShow.com will receive a wedding day swag bag filled with goodies and coupons. For information or tickets, contact Katie Calhan at 637-0735 or Katie.Calhan@pwg.com or visit www.sohobridalshow.com.

OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL

‘It’s All About the Green’ in the Gardens

Cocktails in The Gardens kicks off its fourth season Aug. 12 from 5:30 to 8:30 p.m. in the Hill Garden at Birmingham Botanical Gardens. “It’s All About the Green” will feature entertainment by the new band FisherGreen, a cast of local “musical all-stars” created by Chad Fisher and Heath Green. The signature drink is the green apple martini, with wine and

Helping plan the Birmingham Botanical Garden’s Cocktails in the Garden are in front, from left: Mary-Bestor Tickle, Savannah Lanier, Rona Walters and Shelly McCarty; and in back, from left are: Andrew Krebbs, Michael Hansen and Stephanie Banks. Journal photo by Laura McAlister domestic beer also available at the bar. Hundreds of young professionals, garden enthusiasts and music fans will enjoy food and drinks from Occasions by Wynfrey, live music from local bands, giveaways from Mia Moda and more. Tickets are $15 to each event; BBG members are admitted free. Proceeds benefit the Gardens’ mission to promote public knowledge and appreciation of plants, gardens and the environment. “It’s All About the Green” will be the first of three Cocktails in the Gardens this year. Other events will be Sept. 9 and Oct. 14.

Hoover Library to Host Free Concert

The Hoover Public Library’s Playing@the Plaza concert series will feature the band Sweetwater Road Aug. 19 at 6:30 p.m. Sweetwater Road blends bluegrass, country and country rock with an acoustic flare. The event is free and open to the public. Call 444-7821 for more information.

Get a Hair Cut, Help Children

The Ronald McDonald House Charities of Alabama’s Young Leadership Board (RMHCA YLB) is hosting “Shear Kindness” hair cut-a-thon during the Alabama Sales Tax Holiday weekend. Thanks to the support of the Riverchase Galleria and Aveda Institute, “Shear Kindness” will be Aug. 7 from 10 a.m.-6 p.m. on the second floor of the former Belk store at the Galleria. Stylists from top area salons, including the Richard Joseph Studio Salon Spa at Belk, Aveda Institute, Great Clips, SportsClips, Regis Salon,

Xcell Academy, Ulta and Master Cuts will all be giving hair cuts in return for a donation to the Ronald McDonald House. Requested donations are $5 for children and $10 for adults. For more information, contact Patricia Craft at (205)212-7263 or by email at patricia.craft@rmhca. org.

Homewood to Offer Football 101 for Moms

Homewood High School and Homewood Middle School football coaches are hosting a “Homewood Patriot Mom 101 Football Clinic” from 6-8 p.m. July 29 at the Homewood High School Fieldhouse and Practice Field. Football coaches from the Homewood High and Middle will be conducting the clinic, which is geared toward moms with boys in grades seven-12 or those just interested in learning the basics of football. Instruction will be given in the classroom as well as on the practice field. The cost is $10 per mom and all of the money is going to breast cancer research. Contact dwright@homewood.k12.al.us to reserve a spot.

Volunteers Sought for Red Cross Road to Recovery Program

An individual with a little time and a car can make a difference in the life of a cancer patient by becoming a volunteer with the American Cancer Society’s Road to Recovery Program. This program needs volunteers who will use their own cars to drive patients to treatment at area hospitals. A training session at the American Cancer Society, 1100 Ireland Way in Birmingham, will be Aug. 5 from 9 to 11:30 a.m.

Road to Recovery volunteer drivers must have a valid driver’s license, access to a vehicle and personal automobile insurance. For more information, call Alison Enochs at 930-8884 or Hillary Parmer at 930-8870.

Soiree to Help Keep ‘Magic’ in the City

The Magic City Choral Society’s Summer Soiree is set for Aug. 5 from 6 to 9 p.m. at Gabrella Manor. Tickets are $50 and include beer, wine, live jazz from members of the Alabama Jazz Hall of Fame, food catered by Gabrella Manor and chances to bid on items in the live and silent auctions. They can be purchased at www.magiccitychoralsociety.org. Magic City Choral Society is a 501(c)3 community-based choral arts, education and performance organization that presents two major and free concerts annually for the Birmingham area. For more information, e-mail soiree@magiccitychoralsociety. org.

National Dance Off Event Planned in Birmingham

Birmingham Dance Theatre is joining forces with local sponsors and community groups to support Nigel Lythgoe’s “So You Think You Can Dance” National Dance Day. Birmingham area residents will join others from across the nation to celebrate their creative expression in dance and encourage others to dance as a means to stay fit and healthy. The event will be at the Riverchase Galleria food court July 31 from 1-4 p.m. The festivities will begin at mid-morning and will feature local celebrities, including Miss Alabama 2010 Ashley Davis and Alabama’s Outstanding Teen 2010 Scarlett Walker. Also on the

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ABOUT TOWN

OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL

Act of Congress, Shades Mountain Air, Newgrass Troubadours, Sweetwater Road, The Bluegrass Soul Pickers and Over the Hillbillies Bluegrass Band are scheduled to take the stage throughout the afternoon. The work of at least 40 area artists will also be on display and available for sale. Tickets are priced individually or discounted for family groups of four or more and can be purchased through Ticketmaster or online at www. The Magic City Choral Society will host its Summer Soiree from 6-9 p.m. Aug. 5 at Gabrella Manor. The event thefoundryonline.org/hotstrings. Photos special to the Journal will include both a live and silent auction. schedule are dance instruction and performances and a grand finale dance off. The dance off begins at 3 p.m. Participants will donate a minimum of $10 to the Dizzy Feet Foundation. For more information about the Birmingham event, e-mail bdt. dizzyfeet@gmail.com.

Golf Tournament to Benefit SBA of AL

Steven Horne and his family will host the Fourth Annual Horne Family Golf Tournament to benefit the Spina Bifida Association of AL (SBA of AL) on Aug. 14 at Eagle Point Golf Club. Spina Bifida is the most common, permanently disabling birth defects in the United States. An average of eight babies are born every day with Spina Bifida or a similar birth defect of the brain and spine. The CDC estimates that over 181,000 people are living with this birth defect. The annual golf tournament has become a favorite among family and friends of SBA of AL. Golfers will have a chance to win many prizes and silent auction items during the tournament.

Members of the Birmingham Dance Theatre are helping sponsor the “So You Think You Can Dance” event at the Riverchase Galleria July 31.

Photo Special to the Journal

Registration begins at 6:30 a.m. and tee time is at 7:30 a.m. The cost to enter is an $85 donation for an individual. For more information about the Horne Family Golf Tournament, Spina Bifida or the SBA of AL,contact Angie Pate at (256)617-1414.

Bidding for Birds to Aid Gulf Clean-up Efforts Here

YP Birmingham (Young Professionals of Birmingham) is hosting “Bidding for Birds,” which will benefit the Alabama Wildlife Center in Pelham, a group that is helping care for birds affected by the BP oil spill. The event will be Aug. 18 from 6-9 p.m. at Parkside Café at 4036 Fifth Ave. S. YP Birmingham invites community and civic organizations interested in participating in the event to create a silent auction package. Each package in the auction can be bid on by attendees. All proceeds from the silent auction will be given to the Alabama Wildlife Center. The organization whose silent auction package receives the highest bid will be awarded a $250 donation from YP Birmingham. The organization that creates the most original silent auction package will also receive a $250 donation from YP Birmingham. The most original will be determined by a vote of those in attendance. Tickets are $15 at www. ypbirmingham.com or $20 at the door. Entry is free for YP Birmingham member cardholders. Music will be provided by Jamm Entertainment.

HANNA

ANTIQUES

MALL

Foundry Rescue Mission to Host Bluegrass Festival

Hands and hearts are heating up for “Hot Strings: Birmingham’s Blazin’ Bluegrass Festival,”— a premier event to generate awareness of the issues surrounding drug and alcohol abuse and to raise funds for The Foundry Rescue Mission and Recovery Center — Aug. 15, from 1-7 p.m. at the historic Sloss Furnaces in Birmingham. The afternoon will feature music and foods prepared by local restaurants, special children’s activities, giveaways and educational opportunities to raise awareness of the issues of substance abuse.

Trinity Medical Center Hosting Bone Marrow Registry

Trinity Medical Center is partnering with the National Marrow Donor Program to host “Be the Match Marrow Registry” Aug. 5 from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. in Linn Henley Auditorium on the first floor of the main hospital. This registry event is open to the public. To join the registry, which takes about 10 minutes, participants must be between the ages of 18 and 60. A Social Security number and driver’s license are required. Participants will also need the contact information of two family members to list on the consent form as alternate contacts. ❖

I will go to the ends of the earth, turn over every rock, and bring out the A-Team to ﬁnd you a wonderful home or sell the one you already have. You can count on it!

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6 • THURSDAY, JULY 29, 2010

PEOPLE

Rotaract Club Names New Board Members

New directors for the Rotaract Club of Birmingham include, from left, front: Niki Harris, Sherrelle Hudson, Jeris Burns, Justin Weintraub, Caroline Downing and Bains Fleming; and in back, from left: V. J. Graffeo, Julie Ward, Kevin Garrison and Andrew Case. Photo special to The Journal

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The Rotaract Club of Birmingham recently announced members of its 2010-2011 board of directors, who will lead the club from July 1 to June 30, 2011. The board includes members from a variety of vocations and backgrounds, which reflects the club’s membership of more than 180 local young professionals. Justin P. Weintraub will serve as the new president of the Rotaract Club of Birmingham. He is a vice president with Colonial Properties Trust. Other new board members include Caroline Downing, vice president, of RBC Bank’s Trust Department; Julie Ward, communications director, public relations director for Style Advertising; Niki Harris, treasurer, senior accountant at Alabama Power Company; and Bains Fleming, service director, an attorney with Norman, Wood, Kendrick & Turner in Birmingham. Also named to the board were Andrew Case, social director, asset manager, Harbert Management Corporation; Jeris Burns, membership recruitment director, personal financial planner with Burns & Lecompte; and Sherrelle Hudson, membership development director, a former educator now exploring corporate options. Others serving are Kevin Garrison, programs director, an attorney at Baker Donelson Bearman Caldwell & Berkowitz, PC; and V. J. Graffeo, past president and chairman, an attorney with Haskell Slaughter Young & Rediker, LLC.

Madison O’Kelley Commissioned as 2nd Lieutenant

Madison O’Kelley, son of Kathy and Jim O’Kelley of Vestavia Hills, recently graduated with honors from �� the Officer �� Candidate � �� School Madison O’Kelley at Fort �� Benning, Ga., where he was ��

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OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL

awarded the Distinguished Military Graduate commendation and was commissioned a second lieutenant in the U.S. Army. He is assigned to Fort Leonard Wood, Mo., where he will attend the Corps of Engineers branch school. O’Kelley, a lifelong resident of Vestavia Hills, is an August 2009 graduate of the University of Alabama, where he received a bachelor’s degree in finance and was a member of Kappa Alpha fraternity.

Today’s 2010 All-USA College Academic Team honorable mentions. According to USA Today, judges selecting team members considered grades, leadership, Rebecca Long activities and, most importantly, how students extend their intellectual talents beyond the classroom.

CEO Honored for Community Service

Brian Johnson accepts the National Operation School Bell Award for Academy Sports and Outdoors from Karen Baker of the Assistance League of Birmingham.

Photo special to the Journal

League Presents Award to Academy Sports & Outdoors

Assistance League of Birmingham presented the National Operation School Bell Award to Academy Sports and Outdoors at the league’s year-end luncheon May 19. Brian Johnson, Academy Sports senior marketing coordinator for Alabama and Tennessee, received the award. Through the Academy Sports and Outdoors Standardized Dress Gift Card Voucher Partnership Program, Operation School Bell has been able to provide 1,800 children in the metro Birmingham area with uniform clothing over the past four years.

Long Makes USA Today Academic Team

Rebecca Long, a University of Alabama chemistry major from Vestavia Hills, was named to USA

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Mark Jackson, CEO of Moreson Conferencing, was recently recognized with the Jessie J. Lewis Jr. Community Service Award during national Small Business Week hosted by the Birmingham Business Alliance. The award recMark Jackson ognizes outstanding civic-minded corporate and community leaders in Birmingham. The award, which began in 1995, is given in memory of Lewis, a businessman whose legacy of community service has personified corporate citizenship in the region. In addition to his involvement in many community projects, Jackson leads the boards or advisory boards of the Children’s Aid Society Alabama Foundation, March of Dimes Alabama Chapter, Kid One Transport, Jimmie Hale Mission and Boy Scouts of America’s Greater Alabama Council. He is also involved with the Central Alabama Clean Cities Commission and the Alabama Foundation for Agriculture and Youth for Christ.

Vestavia Teacher Awarded National Fellowship

Benjamin R. Osborne, a teacher at Vestavia Hills High School, has been awarded a James Madison Fellowship by the James Madison Memorial Fellowship Foundation of Washington, D.C., in its 18th annual competition. Fifty-eight fellowships were awarded in 2010. James Madison Fellowships support further study of American history by college graduates who aspire to become teachers of American history,

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PEOPLE

THURSDAY, JULY 29, 2010 • 7

American government and social studies in the nation’s secondary schools, as well as by experienced secondary school teachers of the same subjects. Named in honor of the fourth U.S. president and acknowledged “Father of the Constitution and Bill of Rights,” the fellowship will fund up to $24,000 of Osborne’s course of study toward a master’s degree. Osborne competed with applicants from each of the 50 states, the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico and the nation’s island and trust territories. The fellowship requires its recipient to teach American history or social studies in a secondary school for at least one year for each year of fellowship support.

Copeland Will Lead Samford Choral Music Samford University’s School of the Arts recently appointed Dr. Philip Copeland to its faculty as director of choral activities and associate professor. Copeland’s focus will be the A Cappella Choir, conducting and music education curriculum. He previously was at the University of Alabama at Birmingham, where he led the choral program for nine years.

Greystone Ladies Club Announces Scholarship Winner

Spain Park High School’s Tamar Mickens was the recipient of the second annual Greystone Ladies Club Scholarship. Club members Tina Douglass and Mechelle Wilder presented the $1,000 scholarship at Senior Awards Night on May 18 at Spain Park High School. This fall, Mickens will attend UAB, where he plans to play football. One of six children, he will be the third child in the family attending college in the fall. Serving on the club’s scholarship committee this year were chairman Tina Douglass, Carolyn Haynes, Anne Layne and Mechelle Wilder.

The Birmingham Chapter of the American Marketing Association celebrated its golden anniversary June 10 at Park Lane. More than 100 marketing professionals attended as founding members and past presidents were saluted. During the event, AMA president-elect Keith Smith, left, presented AMA treasurer Tom Nelson with gifts to commemorate his 35th year of involvement with AMA.

Dixon Receives Art Association Scholarship

Madelyn Dare Dixon, a recent graduate of Vestavia Hills High School, is the 2010 recipient of the Vestavia Hills Art Association’s Art Achievement Award. The daughter of Virginia Dixon of Vestavia Hills, she plans to attend the University of Alabama in the fall. Miss Dixon was selected by professional artists and art educators on the Vestavia Hills Art Association’s scholarship committee based on her sense of creativity, effective use of various media and her variety of subjects and unique display techniques. Her work was viewed during Vestavia Hills High School’s student art show. The annual $200 award is presented on the merits of the student’s apparent artistic talent, academic standing and how the award will be applied. This year, the award included an additional $125 gift certifi-

cate from Alabama Art Supply, Inc. and a $100 gift certificate from Forstall Art Center. The award is given to a graduating senior who is continuing his or her education in the visual arts, art education or a related field.

Bloom Receives Kappa Delta Scholarship

The Kappa Delta Scholarship, established in honor of Virginia Blythe Key by the Mountain Brook Kappa Delta Alumnae Association, was given this year to Mountain Brook High School senior Janey Bloom in recognition of her involvement in her school and community. Miss Bloom served as a volunteer at Fair Haven Nursing Home, Habitat for Humanity and Grace House. A member of the Spanish Club and Key Club, she has played lacrosse since her sophomore year and has been co-business manager of the Sword and Shield. ❖

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More photos from social events and OTMJ feature stories. Easy-to-use forms to submit your own news to the Journal. An events calendar with all the hottest happenings in town. An in-depth guide on the OTM restaurants, retail, real estate and more.

Presenting the Greystone Ladies Club Scholarship to Congratulating KD scholarship winner Janey Bloom, Tamar Mickens, center, were Tina Douglass, left, and center, are Mary Rooney, left, and Romona Shannon. Mechelle Wilder. Photo special to The Journal

Photo special to The Journal

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8 • THURSDAY, JULY 29, 2010

LIFE

On the Road to Better Health

Teachers, Students Focus on Fighting Obesity with Wellness Program

BY CRYSTAL CARR

JOURNAL STAFF WRITER

or the first time in years, Homewood High School’s choir director Scott Thorne can feel a rush of waves under his feet as he water skis just off the sandy beaches of Alabama. He can shop wherever he pleases. He can play sports like he’s never played them before. Even tying his shoes is different after he lost 175 pounds through the Wellness Program at Homewood High School. Thorne began the Wellness Program, coordinated by Nivada Spurlock, in January. The program is part of Homewood High’s continuous effort to address the issue of childhood obesity on campus. Starting this school year, Spurlock, who’s also the school’s director of physical education, plans to include a parenting outreach program that will enable parents to make healthier food choices at home. The program made radical changes at HHS last year to tackle childhood obesity. “We removed all of the snack machines,” Spurlock said. “We took out all of the fried foods. We added in a salad bar.” Initially, the students didn’t welcome the changes. “It was tough,” Spurlock said. “But now, the students are starting to try new things.” Among those new things are bicyclespinning classes during or after school. “The kids get into it because of the music,” Spurlock said. “It is very engaging. They get a really hard workout in class.” The Wellness Program has also helped teachers become more physically active through running, walking and biking. Melonie McBrayer started the Run/ Walk/Ride program, which uses the greenway trail near the school for cardio exercises. The program encourages the faculty of Homewood High to get moving regardless of their individual fitness levels. McBrayer has been involved in long distance running since she was in high school. She’s a part of a local running support group and participated in the Boston Marathon in 2005. According McBrayer, the camaraderie and morale the faculty felt toward each other had the biggest impact on achieving their fitness goals. “It is easier to get out there and walk when you know that someone else will be waiting for you,” McBrayer said. At the end of the year, the faculty participated in a community race organized by the Trak Shak. Parents, students and members of the community showed up in droves to support the school’s weight loss initiative. “You don’t need funding to create a different attitude about fitness,” Spurlock said. “You need teachers and parents who are willing to make this important for their students.”

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JOU RNAL

Fun Ways to Get Fit

an’t stand another minute on that boring treadmill? Well, you don’t have to. There’s plenty of exercise options in the over the mountain area. Here are a few workouts to try to get you moving and physically fit. You might even have a little fun doing them, too.

YMCA

Zumba: Have the time of your life in this Latin choreographed dance aerobics class! This class is for all levels. PIYO: PiYo is a 45 minute class that combines both Pilates and Yoga moves in one workout. You will feel the effects of core strengthening work and overall flexibility stretches. This class is ideal for all fitness levels. For more information on group exercise at the YMCA go to http://www.ymcabham.org

Vestavia Hills Recreation Center

Jazzercise: Jazzercise combines jazz dance, resistance training, Pilates, yoga, kickboxing and more to create a truly effective workout. Jazzercise continually varies choreography and music to bring a sense of new energy to each class. Cajun & Zydeco Dance: Get caught up in the fun of dancing to the lively music of Southwest Louisiana. Instructors David Doggett and Dolores Hydock offer a variety of classes for beginners and experienced. Singles and couples are welcome. For more information on fitness offerings at the Vestavia Hills Recreation Center go to http://www.vestaviahills.net and click on Parks and Recreation.

Homewood Recreation Center Homewood School faculty continued to meet up to run during the summer as part of the system’s focus on being healthy and fit. From left are Homewood High School’s Journal photo by Laura McAlister Dayna Lloyd, Melonie McBrayer and Tyler Burgess. McBrayer says teachers play an essential role in encouraging students to be healthy. “A healthier teacher is a better teacher,” McBrayer said. “It’s good to show kids that we are trying to live a healthier lifestyle so that they can be encouraged to do the same.” In turn, the students show their support for the teachers during the school’s Bike for Bagwell fundraising program. Every year, the faculty and students move exercise bikes into the hallways to raise money in honor of Lynn Bagwell, a former employee who fought cancer. “As long as there is money, we will continue to spin,” Spurlock said. In the first year, the school raised $3,000 for the American Cancer Society. The second year brought in $5,000 in donations from students and faculty. “Each kid gave about five bucks apiece,” Spurlock said. The students also participated in a video challenge chronicling their efforts to combat childhood obesity on campus. The video, produced

by students Andy Bass and Marlee Caldwell, won $5,000. It was presented in front of former President Bill Clinton, the Alliance for a Healthier Generation and the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation at an Alliance conference in New York. In the video, Thorne is shown tearing apart a photo of his former self to reveal his astonishing weight loss – a change many of the students didn’t notice until the end of the year. “The energy I have now makes me a better teacher and a happier person,” Thorne said. Losing weight took perseverance, said Thorne. It took waking up every day to participate in cycling sessions at school. He had to walk. He had to run. But in the end, McBrayer said, the results are worth the effort. “It is always difficult to start anything new,” she said. “You just have to make that first jump. “It doesn’t matter if you are walking or running, we are all out there taking the same steps toward a healthier lifestyle.” ❖

Belly Dancing With Aziza: Middle Eastern Belly Dance classes are offered at the Homewood Community Center with instructor, and award - winning performer, Aziza. Classes are open to women of all ages and abilities. No previous dance instruction is needed to enjoy a great workout and learn from the ancient art of belly dancing. For information call (205) 879-0701 For more information on Homewood Parks and recreation fitness offerings go to http://www.homewoodparks.com/.

Hoover Recreation Center

Final Cuts: This unique class of sciencebased body sculpting techniques will combine weights, rubber resistance, balls, and bands to optimize muscle conditioning efficiency. Hip Hop: A fun, high-energy class with lots of new moves and the latest new music. Get ready to sweat and have a blast. Sports Circuit Challenge: A combination of interval training and athletic-based strength exercises. This class is composed of weight stations, resistance training, and intense cardio segments, alternating aerobic and anaerobic conditioning. For more information on fitness offerings at the Hoover Recreation Center go to http:// www.hooveral.org/ and click on Recreation and Leisure. ❖

OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL

LIFE

THURSDAY, JULY 29, 2010 â&#x20AC;˘ 9

Simple life in abundance

RESALES ALSO AVAILABLE FROM THE $300S TO $2,000,000+ IN SEVERAL LIBERTY PARK NEIGHBORHOODS.

To contact a Liberty Park Sales Associate, call 866.933.2509 or visit www.libertypark.com. Take the Liberty Parkway exit off I-459, turn right onto Liberty Parkway. Sales Center is in the Prominence Shops 1.5 miles on left. All information contained herein deemed accurate but not warranted. Neither Liberty Park Properties nor its builders and agents are responsible for errors or omissions. Plan information subject to change without notice.

10 • THURSDAY, JULY 29, 2010

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Readying for the Main Event: The Party before the Party

OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL

Among those attending a get together to promote the Aug. 19 House Gala benefiting Birmingham’s Ronald McDonald House are from left, Collier Craft, Charlie and Cheryl Collat, and Amanda and Ben Weil. Photos special to the Journal

The Ronald McDonald House Board ...

of Directors and Heart of the House Gala committee members gathered at the home of Jason and Connie Stein June 27 for an evening of fellowship and to build enthusiasm for the upcoming gala, set for Aug. 19 at The Club. The Heart of the House Gala will raise funds for Birmingham’s Ronald McDonald House and Tuscaloosa’s Ronald McDonald Family Room. Those at the dinner discussed auction items such as trips to Las Vegas, New Orleans and Atlanta, Alabama and Auburn football tickets, an Instant Wine Cellar, art, jewelry, children’s goodies and more. The event, featuring music by the Ramblers, will honor Ben and Luanne Russell for their contributions to the health of children across the state. Vivian Jones catered a dinner that included marinated grilled tender, Montana grilled chicken, Boursin potatoes, broccoli salad and cheese muffins. Among guests were David and Nancy Stein, Linn and Patricia Pritchett, Mickey Feigelson, Chuck Leachman, Mike and Debbie Singer, Alison James, Ben and Amanda Weil, Bob Wason, Charlie and Cheryl Collat, Frederic and Jennifer Smith, Jimmy Holloway and Vance Holder and Leisha Harris. Also there were Paul and Marianne Sharbel, Craig Bryant and Nicole Allshouse Bryant, Tom and Patrice Jones, Sandy Thurmond, Wendy Filler, Collier and Patricia Craft, April Brown, Charlie and Chris Ellis, Ken and Vikki Grodner and Sandy Marks. Ronald McDonald House Charities of Alabama provides a safe, affordable, supportive “home-away-from-home” for sick or injured children and their families when in Birmingham for medical treatment.

Attending a recent trunk show at Gus Mayer with New York Designer Gustavo Cadile were from left: Audrey Lindquist, fashion show producer; Ann Simmons, Gus Mayer representative; Murray Priester, Cadile and Happy Anthony. Cadile will be back in Birmingham to present his Spring 2011 Collection at the 52nd Annual Linly Heflin Scholarship Photos special to the Journal Luncheon and Fashion Show Sept. 29.

Fans of celebrity designer Gustavo Cadile were ...

Having a good time at a gathering of the Ronald McDonald House Board of Directors were from left: Craig and Nicole Allshouse Bryant and Alison James.

treated to a fitting at Gus Mayer in June by the New York based Argentinian designer who was in Birmingham for a two-day trunk show. Cadile will be back in Birmingham to present his Spring 2011 Collection more photos at at the 52nd Annual Linly Heflin Scholarship Luncheon and Fashion Show at the Sheraton Birmingham Hotel Ballroom Sept. 29. Cadile has designed clothing for celebrities such as Eva Longoria Parker and Catherine Zeta-Jones. Cadile has a range of gowns and dresses to cover different occasions. Linly Heflin members welcomed the designer on June 22 and 23 at the Colonial Brookwood Mall store and thanked him in advance for showcasing his latest line along with others from Gus Mayer at the upcoming scholarship luncheon and fashion show. Tickets for the show, which starts at noon, are $45. Fashion Show producer Audrey Lindquist is planning the show. The long-running Scholarship Luncheon and Fashion Show continues to be the primary fundraiser for its scholarship program, which benefits women seeking higher education in Alabama. The Linly Heflin Unit is a committed group of 125 volunteers headed by President Bette

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Above, from left are Sandy Thurmond, Linn and Patricia Pritchett and Jimmy Holloway, who were among those in attendance at a preparty for the Aug. 19 House Gala, as were, left, Mike and Debbie Singer.

Designer Gustavo Cadile with Gus Mayer employee and model, Sarah Walker. Owen. Co-chairmen of the 52nd Annual Scholarship Luncheon and Fashion Show are Murray Priester and Happy Anthony. Other key members involved in the event are Gillian Goodrich, Pam Pritchard, Sally Worthen, Susan Alison, Roxanne Given, Helen Drennen, Margie Gray, Martha DeBuys, Eugenia Greer, Margaret Moor, Jane Arendall, Allison Pritchard, Anne Hicks, Gina Boyd, Kay Grisham, Elizabeth Hubbard, Deane Cook, Cynnie Sproul, Margaret Brunstad, Nancy Bromberg, Sheri Corey and JuJu Beale. ❖

OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL

¡HICA! supporters ‘salsaed’ the night away at the second ...

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THURSDAY, JULY 29, 2010 • 11

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annual ¡ALMA LATINA! 2010 June 24 at Workplay. Hosted by the Hispanic Interest Coalition of Alabama, the Alma Latina (Latin Soul) Celebration included Latin food, a mariachi band and flamenco and salsa dancing instruction. Music was provided by DJ Orlando Rosa. A silent auction featured Latin more photos at American art and handicrafts plus gift certificates and products from local businesses. The celebration was also an opportunity to educate the community about the important work and services of ¡HICA! in successfully integrating Latino families into Birmingham and Alabama society. During Alma Latina, ¡HICA! presented its first Estrella Awards. The Corporate Star Award went to Alabama Power. The Zaida Jolly Community Service Award was presented to Edwina Taylor, executive director of Cahaba Valley Health Care. Claudia Hendley, ¡HICA!’s court advocate, received the Eliana Sanchez Employee of Distinction Award. Birmingham Mayor William Bell attended and praised the coalition’s work and services.

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Alma Latina chairs are above, from left: Jamika Kirk, Joyce Spielberger and Lindsay Heard. Left, Isabel Rubio, HICA executive director, hugs Bobbie Knight, vice president of Alabama Power, at ¡ALMA LATINA! 2010 held June 24 at Workplay. Alabama Power received HICA’s Community Partner Estrella Award.

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Photos special to the Journal

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More than 400 guests enjoyed ...

Among those attending the fourth annual Fiesta Ball at Innovation Depot were Hannon Kirk, left, and Nellie Butler. The event benefited the Comprehensive Cancer Center

dinner, fiesta drinks and great music at the fourth annual Fiesta Ball May 6 at Innovation Depot downtown. The event benefited the UAB Comprehensive Cancer Center. The ball raised more than $40,000 for the center’s Young Investigator Grant. The party is organized by the Young Supporters Board of the Cancer Center. ❖

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vices of the Bell Center for Early Intervention programs. The new members will be joining 135 current active members. hosted its annual new member At the social, the new memsocial May 18 at the Crestline bers were reminded of upcoming home of gourmet dinner chairNew, Collectible orientations in September and the man Kristie Stewart. The social well-known gourmet dinner event honored the new member class of Antique Dolls Nov. 20. 2010. Service Guild president Julie The Service Guild is a service 2820 Petticoat Lane Cundiff and president-elect organization dedicated to maxiMtn. Brook Village Pauline Scott were among those mizing the potential of children, 870-5544 who attended. Anna Colvin, vice from birth to 3 years of age, at president of membership, coordiOpen Thur. - Sat. 10am - 4:30pm risk for developmental delay, nated the event; membership cothrough the professional serchairman Jennifer Andress spoke to the new member class. New Service Guild members include Jamey Beckham, Amy Benson, Donna Berry, Gwen Blackwell, Mimi Brown, Many Carroll, �� Valerie Carter, Suzanne check out our updated inventory online �� Church, Libby Crumpton, �� Meredith Dunn, Nancy Ferren, Johanna Goodman, Louise �� Heisler, Amy Irby, Tracy Joyce, Nicole Killam, Betsy McLean, �� Melissa McMurray, Kristie �� Michaels, Robyn Nichols, Laura Silsbee, Shelley Suco, Tara Williams and Kim Yearout. ��

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Those attending the Service Guild of Birmingham’s new member social included, from left, Jamey Beckham, Melissa McMurray, Mandy Carroll Photo special to the Journal and Anna Colvin.

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Attending the Assistance League of Birmingham’s final meeting of 2010 were, front, from left: Jan Service, membership; June Pryor, treasurer; Jan Hoyle, corresponding secretary; Mary Ann Wade, hospitality, Barb Kelley, president-elect and community relations. In back from left are: Marilyn Norris, assistant treasurer/projects; Sandy Ridgeway, recording secretary; Karen Baker, education; Connie Williams, Operation School Bell; Molly Bee Bloetscher, fundraising; Margo Niewodowski, president; Marie Taylor, headquarters; Harriet Rejonis, PrimeTime Treasures; Judy Thomas, Operation Literacy; Yvonne Pope, bylaws.

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held its final meeting of the year at Vestavia Country Club. Molly Bee Bloetscher, president, was thanked for her leadership for the past year. Following the business meeting and installation of the new board of directors for 2010-2011, members gathered for lunch. An all-volunteer membership manages Assistance League’s three philanthropic projects, which include: PrimeTime Treasures in Homewood, a consignment shop selling crafts, art, children’s toys and clothes and outdoor and indoor furniture handcrafted by Alabama senior artisans. Operation School Bell, which provides new clothing,

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12 • THURSDAY, JULY 29, 2010

a coat, socks, undergarments, personal care products and a new book to children in need; and Operation Literacy, which

Photo special to the Journal

provides one-on-one tutoring at Birmingham City Schools and also supports the Book Nook at PrimeTime Treasures. ❖

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Literature was the theme ...

of the National Society of Arts and Letters’ annual career awards banquet April 16 at Birmingham Country Club. Dr. Loretta Brown announced winners of the chapter-sponsored short story competition. Courtney Watson of Wellington, Fla., won first place with two short stories, “Legacy and Leeks at Shelby’s on Main” and “Silence & Lightening Traveling Home.” Second place winner for the Birmingham chapter was Jessica Richardson, a New Jersey native now enrolled in the master of fine arts program at the University of Alabama. She won for “The Best Deal” and “Free Baby.” Birmingham-Southern College sophomore Jessica Lyn Broom of Birmingham won third place for her short stories, “Forum” and “Excerpt from Novel: Story of an Untitled Life.” Judges for the Birmingham competition were Drs. Myra Crawford, Elaine Hughes and Wendy Rawlings. Competition co-chairmen were Dr. Loretta Brown and Mel Robinson.

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THURSDAY, JULY 29, 2010 • 13

Attending the National Society of Arts and Letters’ annual career awards banquet were from left: Dr. Loretta Brown, Courtney Watson, Photos special to the Journal Jessica Richardson and Mel Robinson. Allen-Taub, vice president; Chapter member Peggy Carlisle read the poem that won Edith Bauman, recording secfirst place in the group’s recent retary; Jane Hinds, treasurer; seventh grade poetry competition. Janis Zeanah, corresponding “Prose Poem” was written by secretary; Catherine Rogers, Maggie Allinder, a seventh grad- historian; and Ruth Jensen, er at the Alabama School of Fine chaplain. Arts. Catherine Rogers headed Among those attending were the poetry competition. Brown Rogers, Zelda Covey, President-elect Margie Barbara Shepherd and Joe Denton presented retiring twoJohns, Riley Hill, Mildred term president Gail Ledbetter Allen-Taub and Dr. Ed Taub, with a jewelry box and past Edith and Dr. Bob Bauman, president’s pin. Mrs. Ledbetter Mary Frances and Bob Reed, presided at the banquet and recAnne Steedman, Dara Ewing, ognized Mrs. Denton and other Mel Robinson, Libby Odom, new officers, including Mildred Ruth and Virgil Jensen, Michael Carlisle, Nancy and Ed Jones, Emalyn and John Spencer, Edie and Ronnie Barnes, Maxine and Keith Williams, and Jane Hinds.

Members and guests of the Banks High School Class of ... Banks High School Class of 1970 Reunion Committee members are, from left, front: Patti Ferguson Wood, Trisha Bailey Crawford and Kathy Kinney Rutledge. Back: Gary Rutledge, Janice Killingsworth Minor, Adele Handley Jenne, Dee Dee Glass Heslop, Brenda Keeton Legg and Martha Eady Mosley. Janet Bruns Nichols also served on the Photo special to The Journal committee.

1970 celebrated their 40-year reunion May 15 at Iz The Place in Vestavia Hills. Decorations included school colors, memorabilia and photographs. Reunion committee members Laura “Dee Dee” Glass Heslop and Kathy Rutledge welcomed guests and served

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as hosts for the evening. Gary Rutledge was emcee, and a slide show prepared by Patti Ferguson Wood was presented. Others there included Robbie Allen, Johnny and Marcie Braden, Ed and Betty Coe, David and Jane Hester, Bobby and Susan Kilgore Hinds, Rick McCammon, Martha Eady Mosely, Jim and Pfifer Stephens Thompson and Donna Buzbee Ware. Attendees dined on dishes prepared by the Café Iz staff and were entertained with ’70s music from Feel The Beat Entertainment.

The University of Alabama at ...

Birmingham (UAB) School of Nursing Chapter of the UAB National Alumni Society hosted its eighth annual alumni night May 11. The gathering honored achievements and gave graduates the opportunity to reconnect with classmates, colleagues and faculty members. Held at the Matt Jones Art Gallery, the event also celebrated

The BSN class of 1965 celebrated its 45th class reunion at Alumni Night. Among those attending were, from left, front: Sandra Davis, Martha Jo Holsomback, Rebecca Edwards, Kathleen B. Bond and Anna H. Donaldson. Back: Suzanne J. Dickerson, Sara J. Newport, Sally J. Lee, Dorcas C. Fitzgerald and Mary Joyce G. Mason. Photo special to The Journal the school’s 60th anniversary and the alumni chapter’s 30th anniversary with the viewing of a sixdecade history walk. Artist Thomas Andrew was also on site painting artwork inspired by Florence Nightingale’s lantern.

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Among those at the Cheramis Dance Club’s dinner dance were members Janet Harden, Alice Ellison, Mollie Midlik, Joy Patterson and Peggy Photo special to The Journal Yarnall.

The 2010 Spring Dinner Dance ...

sponsored by the Cheramis Dance Club was recently held at Vestavia Hills Country Club. Those attending danced to the music of the Classics, a popular Birmingham band. New club members Wilma Thompson and Ann Duncan received roses and a welcome from president Joy Patterson. Other officers and committee members attending included vice president Peggy Yarnall and Chandler Yarnall, secretary Nancy Coggin and Thomas Coggin, treasurer Mollie Midlik and Bill Midlik, parliamentarian Alice Ellison and Tony Ellison, telephone chairman Janet Harden and Nathan Thompson, yearbook chairman Doris Kenny and Carl Jones, club photographer Vickie Barnes and Bob Barnes, social chairman Bess Speegle and Alan Speegle, name tag chair-

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man Colleen Adams and Mitch Mitchell and publicity chairman Brenda Harris and Ray Harris. Members there included Margarita Gracianette and Arthur Gracianette, Reba Lyons and Lee Rachielles, Jean Morton and Oliver Woodward, Lindsay Reese and Louie Reese, Betty Underwood and Earl Underwood, Reyford Nichols and Ed Nichols, Reba Huffman and Stan Biggs, Jerrie Kitchings and Charlie Harwell, Zella Listerman and John Sherrill, Shirley Mays and Orbie Mays, Mary Pate and Don Hamner, Lisa Powers and Robert Powers, Jane Crouch and Frank Jones, Yvonne Norton and John Norton, Ginnie Stewart and John Anderson, Beverly Rives and Bob Rives, Regina Smith and Louis Chaney, Wilma and Charles Thompson, Gayle and Pete Maenza and Teresa Weaver and Buddy Hart. Other attendees included Barbara Pilato and Dave Woods, Beverly Jackson and George, Joan Whittaker and William Taylor, Virginia Golightly and John, Betty Womack and Lowell, Barbara Dobbyn and Jim, Noel Tidwell and J.P., Lori Eversull and Andy, Edna and Ken Alderman, Rosemary Boatwright and Olen, Shirley Whitlock and Gil Bokenkamp, Mary Klemenc and Elmer, Marilyn Kelly and Willie Larson, Robyn White and Steve Yester and Betty Rogers and John Bosshart.

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At a retirement reception for Linda Williams, far right, were, from left, Hoover Schools Superintendent Andy Craig, Soon Bok Sellers and Photo special to The Journal Hoover Mayor Tony Petelos.

Historic Bluff Park Community School ...

was the setting for a recent retirement reception for Linda Williams, community education coordinator for Hoover for 28 years. Among the guests were Hoover Mayor Tony Petelos; Councilmen Gary Ivey, Brian Skelton, Gene Smith and wife Pam; Hoover School Superintendent Andy Craig, Dr. Ken Jernigan and Soon Bok Sellers. Kingdom Christian Pastor Jerry McClain and his wife Charla as well as representatives of the Hoover Historical Society, Hoover Arts Alliance, Bluff Park Art Association, the Hoover Senior Center and local artists were also at the reception. Others among the more than 100 guests were Dana Stewart,

Ed Pitchford, Jerry Fiore, Ron Jones, David Fancher, Principal Bluff Park School, Kara Scholl, Sharon Tucker, Galey Busby, Nada Boner, Jack Harrison, Bob Austin, Frances Moon, Christine Simonton, Sara Swindle, Rick Lazenby and Holly Higgins. Also there were Terry Martin, Andrew Shafer, Randall Falls, Jimmy Stephens, Lori Salter, Joan Davis, Delores Wilkinson, Laura Lewis, Belle Jorden, Sara Perry, Sandra Davis and Nancy Jackman, Charles Shelby and wife Win, Joy Elliot, Phyllis Ferguson, Donna Bennie, Debra Carroll, Betty Parker. More guests included Carole Roegner, Willie Deason, and Martha Ann Lewis. ❖

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An event inspired by the Food Network’s ...

“Iron Chef America” was held recently at the Birmingham home of Aaron and Jen Lincove. The event brought together parents who participate in the now through Aug. 14th • Selelct items up to 75% off Birmingham Jewish Federation’s Babies and Bagels program and pitted five volunteer cooks against each other in a conmore photos at test called “Battle �� Garlic.” Each �� dish made by the competitors had to include garlic as the key ingredient. Aaron Lincove, Tamara Goldis, Aaron Nelson, Meg Bruck-Krawitz and Dan Wasserman each made three dishes, which were judged by the attendees in three categories: taste, originality and best use of ingredient. Ms. Goldis, the winner, received �� a gift card to Do Di Yós restaurant. Babies and Bagels in Birmingham �� is an outgrowth of the BJF’s You �� Belong in Birmingham project. �� The goal is to give young families �� with small children an opportunity to come together for socializing �� and to connect them more deeply with the Birmingham Jewish com�� munity.

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Above, the Babies and Bagels Iron Chefs were, from left, Tamara Goldis, Aaron Lincove, Daniel Wasserman, Aaron Nelson and Meg Bruck-Krawitz. Right, Daniel Wasserman and Dan Weinrib taste some of the “Iron Chef” creations. Photos special to The Journal

You Belong in Birmingham and Babies and Bagels in Birmingham are funded through the BJF annual campaign.

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At Tony Falleta’s restaurant, Leonardo’s, committee members of the John Carroll High School Class of 1960 are front from left: Gaethea Gagliano Chiarella, Leon Chiarella, Chris Milazzo and Sara Tudisco; and back from left Tony Falleta, Mary Agnes Zicarelli Calamusa, Vincent Bruno, Margaret Mackin Farrell, Tom Swatek, Angie Piazza Giardina and Joan Miller Marks.

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are planning the class of 1960’s 50th reunion Aug. 20 and 21. The event will begin with an informal cocktail party Friday night at the home of Mary Ann and Vincent Bruno. Saturday night will be dinner and dancing to the “Oldies” at The Club. The committee is still searching for five classmates: Patrician Curran, Linda Friese, Billie Sue Kessler, Marie Lawfer and Brenda Miller. If anyone has information regarding these classmates, contact: Joan Miller Marks at 7985554 or jmarks1113@yahoo.com; or Angie Piazza Giardina at 6647556 or angiardina@bellsouth. net. All graduates from the class of 1960 are encouraged to visit www.jcreunion1060.blogspot. com. ❖

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McCollum-Goodwyn

Elizabeth Nan McCollum and Caleb McNeill Goodwyn were married May 1, 2010. The wedding took place at The Cathedral of Saint Paul in Birmingham. The Rev. Kevin M. Bazzel, J.C.L. officiated. A reception followed at the Country Club of Birmingham.

Darnell-Hollis

Mr. and Mrs. John H. Darnell of Vestavia Hills announce the engagement of their daughter, Laura Ann, to Wainscott Hollis, son of Mrs. Betty J. Hollis and the late Mr. William J. Hollis of Southaven, Miss.

Abel-Heaven

Mr. and Mrs. George and Charlene Abel of Bridgeport, Ill. announce the engagement of their daughter, Erin Elizabeth, to Timothy J. Heaven Jr., son of Dr. and Mrs. Timothy J. Heaven Sr. of Vestavia Hills. Miss Abel is the granddaughter of Mrs. Jake Abel and the late Mr. Russell Abel of Bridgeport, Ill. and the late Mr. and Mrs. Russell Simms of Bridgeport.

The bride is the daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Luther Gwaltney McCollum Jr. of Jasper. She is the granddaughter of Mrs. Sarah Webb McCollum and the late Mr. Luther Gwaltney McCollum Sr. of Greensboro and Dr. Rollins Lynne Tindell Sr. and the late Mrs. Margaret Peacock Tindell of Dothan. The groom is the son of Mr. and Mrs. John Whitfield Long of Jasper and Mr. Leon Branton Goodwyn Jr. of Gadsden. He is the grandson of Mrs. Julia Goodwyn Stewart and the late Mr. Leon Branton Goodwyn, Sr. of Jasper and the late Mr. and Mrs. Robert McNeill Rawls of Pine Level. The bride was given in marriage by her father. She wore a pearl necklace that was purchased in France in 1824 as a gift from her great, great, great, great grandfather to his wife. The brides in the family have worn this necklace for generations. Attending the bride as her maid of honor was her sister, Margaret Kathleen McCollum. Dr. Darnell is the granddaughter of the late Mr. and Mrs. Arlis C. Ellis of Ethel, Miss. and the late Ms. Kathleen Howell of Cochran, Ga. She graduated from Tulane University with a bachelor’s in biomedical engineering, received her DMD from the University of Pennsylvania School of Dental Medicine, and is receiving her Ph.D. from The Johns Hopkins University in materials science engineering. Dr. Hollis is the grandson of the late Mr. and Mrs. James J. Wainscott and the late Mr. and Mrs. James D. Hollis. He graduated cum laude from the University of Memphis with a bachelor of science in biology and a minor in chemistry and received his DDS from the University of Tennessee College of Dentistry. The bride and groom are employed in Memphis, Tenn. at the University of Tennessee College of Dentistry. She is a graduate of the University of Illinois were she received a bachelor of science degree and Kelley School of Business, Indiana University, where she received a master of business administration. She was a member of Phi Kappa Phi honor society at the University of Illinois and Beta Gamma Sigma honor society, at Indiana University. She was a Forte Foundation Fellow at Indiana University. Mr. Heaven is the grandson of the late Mr. and Mrs. Raymond Heaven, the late Mr. and Mrs. Charles Stegman and the late Mr. and Mrs. R. E. “Pete” Mayhall. He received a bachelor of science degree at Washington University, in St. Louis, and a master of business administration from Kelley School of Business at Indiana University. He was a member of the Washington University in St. Louis basketballteam and was a member of Beta Gamma Sigma honor society at Indiana University. The bride and groom are employed in Birmingham. The wedding is planned for July 31, 2010.

THURSDAY, JULY 29, 2010 • 17

WEDDINGS&ENGAGEMENTS Bridesmaids were Katharine Robinson Davis, Margaret Clever Dillard, Katherine Fleming Dorlon, Camden Taylor Eggers, Haley Amanda Goodwyn, Sarah Blair Herndon, Marion Elizabeth Kelley, Frances Jean Mohylsky, and Ashley Anne Phillips. Caroline Henderson Goings and Sarah Creagh Goings, cousins of the bride, were junior bridesmaids. Lola Katherine Shields, cousin of the bride, was the flower girl. Mr. John Whitfield Long and Mr. Leon Branton Goodwyn Jr. served as best men. Groomsmen were John Disque Agricola Jr., Patrick Lucas Bradley, Nathan VanMeter Hendricks IV, William Hastings Hensel Jr., Robert Keith Johnson, Christopher Ryan Maddox, John William Robbins and Frank Lewis Thomasson III. William Richardson Shields, cousin of the bride, was ring bearer. After a wedding trip to St. Lucia, West Indies, the couple now lives in Birmingham.

Cole-Litchfield

Mr. and Mrs. Robert Arthur Cole of Vestavia Hills announce the engagement of their daughter, Lauren Ellisa, to Frank Earl Litchfield IV, son of Mr. and Mrs. Frank Earl Litchfield III of Montgomery. Miss Cole is the granddaughter of Mrs. Nancy White of Vestavia Hills and the late Mr. Jerry White and Dr. and Mrs. George William Cole of Mountain Brook. She attends Auburn University and is a member of Phi Mu sorority. Mr. Litchfield is the grandson of Mr. and Mrs. Howard Eugene Haynes of Cullman and the late Mr. and Mrs. Frank Earl L. Litchfield, Jr. He attends Auburn University and is a member of Sigma Alpha Epsilon fraternity and Phi Eta Sigma national society of collegiate scholars. The wedding is planned for July 24, 2010.

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Joseph Harrison Gasque and the late Mr. Gasque of Murrells Inlet, S.C. and the late Mrs. Beverly Blackwell Gasque of Birmingham and Mrs. Alfred Arenton Hurst and the late Mr. Hurst of Vestavia Hills. He is a graduate of Auburn University and Cumberland School of Law. He practices law in Birmingham. The wedding is planned for Aug. 7, 2010 at First Presbyterian Church in Greenwood, S.C.

Barger-Hurst

Mr. and Mrs. James Self Corley III of Greenwood, S.C. and Mr. and Mrs. Bert Sidney Barger Jr. of Elberton,Ga. are pleased to announce the engagement of their daughter, Carolyn Christina Barger, to Brian Joseph Hurst, son of Mr. and Mrs. Glenn Michael Hurst of Vestavia Hills. Miss Barger is the granddaughter of Dr. and Mrs. Julian Frippe Craig Jr. of Greenwood and Mrs. Bert Sidney Barger and the late Mr. Barger of Elberton. She is a graduate of Furman University and received her master’s degree at The University of South Carolina. She is a genetic counselor at the University of Alabama at Birmingham hospital. Mr. Hurst is the grandson of Mrs.

Best Wishes to Brides & Grooms! To receive wedding & engagement announcement forms, call 823-9646. Glossy photos and high resolution digital images reproduce best. Photos run in color on the Web at OTMJ.com. Our e-mail address is editorial@otmj.com

18 • THURSDAY, JULY 29, 2010

White-Foreman

Ashley Ann White and Henry

Northcutt-Thomason

Mr. and Mrs. William Benjamin Northcutt Jr. of Vestavia Hills announce the engagement of their daughter, Jennifer Lauren Northcutt, to Michael Alexander Thomason Jr., son of Mr. and Mrs. Michael Alexander Thomason Sr. of Vestavia Hills. Miss Northcutt is the granddaughter of Mr. and Mrs. Clifford Douglas Jenkins Jr. of Vestavia Hills and the late Mr. William Benjamin Northcutt Sr. of Tampa, Fla. and Eugenia Northcutt of Vestavia Hills. She graduated cum laude from Auburn University with a bachelor of arts in public relations and a minor in English. She was a member

Carpenter-O’Keefe

Casey Moran Carpenter and Ross Matthew O’Keefe were married May 15, 2010 at Aldridge Botanical Gardens. The

Andrew Foreman were married March 13, 2010, at First Baptist Church of Birmingham. Pastor Steve Blair officiated. A reception followed at Birmingham Botanical Gardens. The bride’s parents are Mr. and Mrs. Dan Hall White of Hoover. The groom’s parents are Mr. and Mrs. Luther Vann Foreman of Indian Springs Village. The bride was given in marriage by her father. Katie Jane Morris of Pelham was maid of honor. Bridesmaids were Leah Foreman Jones, sister of the groom of Birmingham. Ashley Cobb White, sister-in-law of the bride of Calera, Anna Lunsford Barnes of Hoover, Tiffani Margaret Little of Bessemer and Sarah Hendon Price of Mountain Brook. Program attenof Alpha Omicron Pi sorority, the Public Relations Council of Alabama, Alpha Lambda Delta Honor Society, Phi Eta Sigma Honor Society and the College of Liberal Arts Dean’s List. She has been employed at McNeely Pigott & Fox Public Relations in Nashville, Tenn., since 2007. Mr. Thomason is the grandson of Mrs. David Mortimer Thomason Sr. and the late Mr. Thomason and Mr. and Mrs. Alexander Andrews Anderson all of Vestavia Hills. He graduated summa cum laude from Auburn University with a bachelor of science in accounting, where he was a graduation marshal and a member of Phi Kappa Phi, Mortar Board, Omicron Delta Kappa, and Phi Gamma Delta fraternity. He also graduated with a doctor of jurisprudence from Vanderbilt University Law School where he was an honor scholar, managing editor of the Vanderbilt Law Review, and recipient of the Vanderbilt Scholastic Excellence Award. He will be employed in Birmingham by the law firm of Bradley Arant Boult Cummings. The wedding is planned for Aug. 7, 2010 at All Saints Episcopal Church in Homewood. Following the wedding, the couple will reside in Vestavia Hills. Rev. Joseph P. Warren officiated. A reception followed at Aldridge Gardens. The bride’s parents are Mr. and Mrs. Doyle Arlen Carpenter, of Birmingham. The groom’s parents are Mr. and Mrs. Ronald Joseph O’Keefe, of Austin, Texas. The bride was given in marriage by her father. She was the fourth generation to wear the veil purchased in Europe by her greatgrandmother. Caroline Johnson, cousin of the bride, served as veil bearer. Ushers were Rhett O’Keefe of New Orleans, Ryan O’Keefe of Austin, brothers of the groom, Arlen Carpenter, Christopher Carpenter, brothers of the bride, and Ben Fine. After a wedding trip to St. Lucia, the couple now lives in New Orleans.

WEDDINGS&ENGAGEMENTS

OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL

dants were Savannah Davis and Megan Zielke, great nieces of the bride, both of Trussville. Alex Vann Foreman, brother of the groom, of Indian Springs Village was best man. Groomsmen were Jeremy Deville Jones, brother-in-law of the groom of Birmingham, Bradley Hall White, brother of the bride of Calera, Jonathan David Lind of Indian Springs Village, Thomas Jerry Warren of Birmingham, and Matthew Austin Baker of Chickasaw. Ushers were Joseph Kyle Hampton of Hendersonville, Tenn. and William Patrick Foshee of Birmingham. After a wedding trip to the Dominican Republic, the couple now lives in Bessemer.

J.A. Dowdy and the late Mrs. Dorothy Dowdy. She graduated from Vestavia Hills High School and attended Auburn University where she graduated magna cum laude in 2009 with a bachelor’s degree in graphic design in the School of Architecture. She is a member of the Kappa Delta Sorority. The prospective groom is the grandson of Mr. and Mrs. Phillip Noto and Mrs. Marie Vlahos and the late Theodore Vlahos. He graduated from Vestavia Hills High School and attended Auburn University where he graduated in 2008 with a degree in marketing in the School of Business. He is a member of the Beta Theta Pi Fraternity. He is employed with Duncan-Williams Investment Bankers in Memphis, Tenn. An evening wedding is planned for Aug. 14 at Saint Luke’s Episcopal Church in Mountain Brook with the reception following at Old Car Heaven. The couple will live in Memphis.

Dowdy-Vlahos

Jim and Carol Dowdy of Birmingham announce the engagement of their daughter, Meredith Camille, to Stephen Alexander Vlahos, son of Alex Vlahos and Phyllis Noto Ost of Birmingham. The bride-elect is the granddaughter of Mrs. Jean English of Franklin, Tenn. and the late Charles Ammons and the late

Hiller-Moore

Mr. and Mrs. George Samuel Hiller III of Birmingham announce the engagement of their daughter, Rebecca Anne, to Robert Dunseath Moore III, son of Mr. Robert Dunseath Moore Jr. of Birmingham and the late Mrs. Moore. Miss Hiller is the granddaughter of Mrs. George Samuel Hiller Jr. of Birmingham, formerly of Jasper, and the late Mr. Hiller and the late Mr. and Mrs. Frank Byrd Hood of Atlanta. She is a graduate of Mountain Brook High School and a cum laude graduate of Auburn University where she was a member of Mortar Board, the Cater Society and Kappa Delta. She was presented at the Ball of Roses. Miss Hiller earned her masters of accountancy at the University of Southern California and is a certified public accountant. She is employed as a financial analyst with Protective Life Insurance Company. Mr. Moore is the grandson of the late Mr. and Mrs. Robert Dunseath Moore of Birmingham and the late Mr. and Mrs. Henry Ford McGraw of Louisville, Miss. He is a graduate of Mountain Brook High School and the University of Alabama with a degree in business administration. He was a member of Phi Gamma Delta. He received his Master’s degree in business administration from the Brock School of business at Samford University. Mr. Moore is employed at BBVA Compass in the Birmingham Commercial Banking Department. The wedding will take place Aug. 7 at St. Luke’s Episcopal Church in Birmingham.

Mathis-Cowart

Mrs. Mary Esther Mathis of Vestavia Hills and Mr. William Leslie Mathis Jr. of Birmingham are pleased to announce the engagement of their daughter, Frances Leslie, to Jay Patrick Cowart, son of Mr. and Mrs. Wendell Patrick Cowart of Vestavia Hills.

Clancy-Jenkins

Mr. Thomas L. Clancy Jr. and Ms. Patricia Stillwell of Birmingham announce the engagement of their daughter, Kristen Marianne, to William

The bride-elect is the granddaughter of Mrs. Frank Vincent Brocato Jr. and the late Mr. Brocato of Homewood and Mr. and Mrs. William Leslie Mathis of Vestavia Hills. She is a graduate of Furman University and was president of Delta Delta Delta sorority. She is employed at the Southern Regional Education Board in Atlanta. The prospective groom is the grandson of the late Mrs. Margaret Major Murphree of Birmingham and the late Mr. Rodger Harris Murphree of Santa Rosa Beach, Fla. and Mrs. Rachel Aelise Cowart of Huntsville and the late Mr. Orville Cowart of Huntsville. He is a graduate of Auburn University’s College of Business and is employed at TriMont Real Estate Advisors in Atlanta. The wedding will take place Aug. 21, 2010 at Trinity United Methodist Church. Brent Jenkins, son of Mr. and Mrs. William Frank of Vestavia Hills. Miss Clancy is the granddaughter of the late Mr. and Mrs. Thomas L. Clancy and the late Mr. Willliam Stillwell and Ms. Mary Buchanan. She is a graduate of Auburn University, was a member of Alpha Gamma Delta and president of the College of Business Executive Society. Mr. Jenkins is the grandson of Mr. and Mrs. Hilton D. Logan and Dr. and Mrs. William Frank Jenkins. He is a graduate of Auburn University. The bride is employed in Birmingham at the Southeastern Conference. The groom is employed in Pelham at Vulcan Threaded Products. The wedding is planned for Aug. 21, 2010.

THURSDAY, JULY 29, 2010 • 19

SCHOOLS

OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL

back2school 1

1. Vestavia Hills High Schools is breaking its own record with what it calls the “Triple Crown” of education. 2. Sixteen Over-the-Mountain teens are selected to attended the 2010 Alabama Governor’s School this summer. 3. Hoover City Schools look to add new technology in the new school year. 4. Highlands School stays busy during summer on and off campus. 5. Cherokee Bend’s FOAC program continues to teach children to build trust and faith in themselves. PLUS: Mountain Brook Teachers brush up on technology skills at summer conference, and meet some of the new principals in the Over-the-Mountain area. – Look for more back-to-school news in our Aug. 12 issue –

20 • THURSDAY, JULY 29, 2010

SCHOOLS

OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL

Three Is a Magic Number

Vestavia Hills High School Principal Cas McWaters shows off the school’s Blue Ribbon School award. It was one of three national honors this school received this past year.

Vestavia Hills High School Earns Trio of Top National Awards

BY LAURA MCALISTER JOURNAL EDITOR

Journal Photo by Laura McAlister

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wards and honors are nothing unusual for many over the mountain schools. The systems earn top state rankings year after year and frequently appear on lists of the best schools in the nation. What is rare, though, is for one school to get three top honors in one year, which is what Vestavia Hills High School recently accomplished. For the first time in the school’s history, VHHS was named a Blue Ribbon School, one of the nation’s top high schools by Newsweek and a silver medal school by U.S. News & World Report, all in the same school year. “I call this the Triple Crown for the high school,” said Cindy Adams, director of curriculum and instruction for Vestavia Hills city schools. “It’s really a great honor, and I don’t think the high school stands alone. This is really a collaborate effort of all the schools. We tend to cheer each other on. We want everybody to excel.”

The Newsweek and U.S. News & World Report rankings are based largely on students taking advanced placement, college-level courses and tests, while the Blue Ribbon award is much more comprehensive. This year, about 1,600 schools – roughly 6 percent of the nation’s public schools – made the Newsweek list, and about 1,700 were selected for the U.S. News and World Report list. Only 314 schools nationwide received the Blue Ribbon award. In addition to Vestavia Hills High School, Mountain Brook’s Cherokee Bend Elementary also was designated a Blue Ribbon School. This is the second time VHHS has been named a Blue Ribbon School. The last time it received the honor was in 1991. “We’re real excited about that,” said Cas McWaters, VHHS principal. “Vestavia has a unique school environment. There’s something special about it.” It’s that unique environment, McWaters believes, that earned VHHS the Blue Ribbon School distinction. According to the U.S.

Department of Education, Blue Ribbon Schools are the top performers in their state regardless of student background. They have high academic standards and meet and exceed those standards. During the application process, McWaters said, the department of education questioned VHHS’s application. “We had charitable fundraising as part of the curriculum,” he said. “They thought that was a mistake – it should be extracurricular.” It wasn’t a mistake, though, McWaters said. A key part of the high school’s mission statement is community service, or what McWaters likes to refer to as “the Rebel Edge.” It is a concept developed by the school years ago that emphasizes not just academics but also giving back to the community. “We want excellence at all times,” McWaters said. The concept has taken root in the school. Ninety-four percent of all students participate in communityfocused clubs that meet during the school day. “A lot of schools don’t do that anymore. They put it outside the school day, but I think that de-emphasizes the importance of service organizations,” McWaters said. “I think it should be in the school just like math, science and English.” In one school year, Vestavia High students raised more than $200,000 for charities, and many students clocked more than 100 community service hours. The school also has a Habitat for Humanity chapter that has funded and built one house each year since forming at the school. In addition to community service, VHHS also emphasizes respect for others. The school conducts heritage panels that teach and promote an atmosphere of respect, as well as recognize “random acts of kindness,” McWaters said. He said one of the goals of the school is to not just teach students to be “global learners, but global participants in the community.” Throughout the summer, he said, faculty and staff have been looking at ways to improve upon that goal. “We’re going to always be tweaking things, and identifying what works and what doesn’t,” he said. “One of the things I don’t want to happen is people to think if we don’t make this or that list, that we’re not still doing what we should be. “If there’s any negative about us, it’s that we don’t toot our own horn enough. Like I said, we just have a very unique school environment.” ❖

OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL

SCHOOLS

THURSDAY, JULY 29, 2010 • 21

��selling �

Mountain Brook Gets Technical ��

Teachers, Staff Spend Week of Summer Learning Newest Web Applications

BY LAURA MCALISTER JOURNAL EDITOR

Get more:

ountain Brook teachers and staff spent one of their last weeks of summer in the classroom brushing up on their computer skills. For the sixth year in a row, the school system offered its weeklong technology conference to train employees in new and existing technology. “What we’re trying to do is really help utilize tools already in place, and help engage kids in different activities,” said Donna Williamson, Mountain Brook schools director of technology. “We want to make sure our teachers have the skills they need, but we also want to make sure they’re being used with the curriculum.” About 50 percent of Mountain Brook schools’ staff attended the conference, themed “The CyberCafe.” There were 70 sessions that resulted in 2,500 technology professional development hours for attending staff. Like other school systems,

Mountain Brook faculty produced a video from the technology conference. Watch it at OTMJ.COM.

Mountain Brook is taking advantage of several free Web 2.0 applications in the classroom. During the conference, Williamson said many of the sessions focused on mastering web programs, like Moodle, GoogleApps and PhotoStory. Moodle was implemented in Mountain Brook last school year and is described as a learning management system. Williams said the free application has allowed teachers to create their own learning sites that can be accessed by students anywhere they have an Internet connection. Moodle training sessions focused on making the most of the application, which Williamson said, though new to the system, has already proved to be very useful to

both teachers and students in linking the classroom to the home and more. “It’s a mapped learning environment that they can access anywhere,” she said. “It’s safe, and it also gives them access to GoogleApps like Gmail and Google Docs.” During the five-day conference, Williamson said they had 80-120 teachers and other staff members in attendance a day. In addition to training with the school’s tech specialists, the conference also allowed teachers to see how their peers are using different technologies in the classroom. “I am amazed at the plethora of technology resources,” said April Cartee, a Mountain Brook teacher, during the conference. “I have learned so much and am so excited about the upcoming school year.” Williamson said the conference is made available to the school system through corporate sponsors as well as the Mountain Brook City Schools Foundation and the board of education. Mountain Brook students return to the classroom Aug. 17. ❖ Hoover High School teacher Bryan Rosenstiel works with a student in the computer lab. This school year, Hoover will offer Blended Online Learning, which will allow students to take some classes at home for a fee.

Photo special to the Journal

New at Hoover Schools

Technology Offerings, Schedules Among Changes for 2010-11 School Year

ew online, high-school courses – known as Blended Online Learning – will be available to seniors this fall taking English, government and economics. Students will still come to class during the week for other courses but have the opportunity to take these courses from home for a fee.

Hoover Partners with Discovery

Hoover City Schools has partnered with Discovery Education, a division of Discovery Communications, whose networks include Discovery Channel, Animal Planet, and Science Channel, on an agreement that will bring Discovery Education streaming Plus digital content service into Hoover classrooms. Discovery Education streaming Plus includes more than 150,000 digital learning objects such as videos like Discovery Channel’s award winning LIFE and PLANET EARTH series and others across every academic discipline, as well as pictures, songs, reading passages and more. Aligned to Alabama state standards and assess-

ments, Discovery Education streaming Plus is searchable by keyword, content area and grade level, and can be integrated seamlessly into Hoover City Schools’ curriculum by district educators to both “seize the teachable moment” and digitally transport students beyond the campus to environments or cultures they might not otherwise have the opportunity to experience.

Schedules Adjusted for New Year

Start and stop times will advance by 15 minutes at Hoover’s three middle schools (Berry, Bumpus and Simmons) resulting in a new start time of 8:15 a.m. and stop time of 3:15 p.m. Hoover High School will back up its start time to 8:15 a.m. (first period) and will now get out at 3:20 p.m. Zero period at Hoover High will now begin at 7:20 a.m. Elementary start and stop times will remain the same: 7:45 a.m. to 2:45 p.m. Spain Park High School’s schedule will also remain the same. The first day of school for Hoover students is Aug. 11. ❖

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22 • THURSDAY, JULY 29, 2010

SCHOOLS

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OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL

Taking the Lead

A Q&A with Some of the OTM Schools New Adminstrators How long have you been at Crestline Elementary? I have been at Crestline since 1984. I was a special education teacher for 18 years, a reading coach for five years and the assistant principal for five years. I have worked under Dr. Mike Melvin for 17 years. He served as a tremendous mentor. When he left, I felt confident about coming into this position because I know the school so well and I was mentored so well.

Please send your letter of interest and resume to: vcoresumes@vc.edu

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What do you like about Crestline Elementary? It’s the atmosphere. Our staff is like a family. It is a community school. We have always been a school where the teachers are lifelong learners. We have an excellent staff. We have tremendous parent involvement, and we have the best kids in the world. What made you interested in early childhood education? I worked with special education What do you like about Spain Park High School? Spain Park has a great community supporting it. It has everything that you look for in a school. It has great academics, great athletics and a great facility. How long have you worked in education? I have worked in education for 24 years. What college did you attend? I went to the University of North Alabama. I majored in both history and physical education. I completed my master’s degree at Alabama State University.

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Chris Shaw Spain Park Principal

What changes do you hope to bring to Spain Park? I want to build on the relationship of trust

children while I was in high school and fell in love with doing it.

What college did you attend? I went to Auburn for my undergraduate degree and UAB for postgraduate degree. Both degrees were in special education. What kind of changes can we expect to see for the new school year? One of the most important things we are talking about now is reaching the 21st century learner. We are trying to incorporate more technology in every lesson. What kind of changes in technology has Crestline made? We are moving to a paperless system and school. All of our newsletters are sent out via e-mail. We also started online registration this year. Parents can now register their child and pay registration fees online. And, we are also posting our classes on our website this year for the first time ever. Compiled by Crystal Carr that the school has with the community. I also want to make the school more parent-friendly. What type of changes in technology can we expect to see this year? We are improving our Web site by updating the teacher’s pages and blogs. Why did you decide to go into education? I love to make a difference in the lives of students. Teachers and administrators play an important role in helping students succeed. What is Spain Park’s secret to success? The community helps us succeed. The parents are very passionate about seeing their kids become successful. Compiled by Crystal Carr

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Cherokee Bend School opened its FOAC program to students during the summer. FOAC, Fair Oaks Adventure Curriculum, teaches students self confidence through different physical fitness activities. While much of the program uses the outdoor courses at the elementary school, some take part in the school. Climbing the wall in the school’s gym blindfolded this summer was camper Robbie Kent. With the help of fellow campers, Robbie climbed the wall and rang the bell when he reached the top.

Journal photo by Laura McAlister

OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL

Summer’s Been Busy For Highlands School

SCHOOLS

THURSDAY, JULY 29, 2010 • 23

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The Highlands School community has been very active over the summer. Head of school Kathryn Barr and social studies teacher Bo Garrett led a group of Highlands students and parents on a 10-day trip to Costa Rica. There, they visited a volcano and hot spring, kayaked along Lake Arenal and took a canopy tour. The group also hiked through the Santa Elena Biological Reserve, rode horses and rafted through the rain forests, planted trees and visited a local school to donate school supplies. The trip was also an opportunity to extend the goals of Highlands School: focusing on world language and culture, science and nature, community service and physical fitness. On campus, Highlands has implemented state-of-the-art technology in every classroom. The schools is also in the process of renovating and updating two science labs and its greenhouse. A new, academicallychallenging science curriculum has been added to the program. The Highlands Summer Program has kept students throughout the community engaged in a variety of fun, educational adventures, such as karate, bike safety, pirate camp, geocaching, myth busters, young Rembrandts, math games, technology, Mozart music, dance, American Girl camp, wacky science, golf and detective camp.

�� Above, clockwise are Kiana Perkins, Emma Turner, Daryl Wilson, Zoe Zahariadis, and Lexie Rueve taking part in summer activities at Highlands School. Left, Peyton Allen snaps some shots from summer camp at the school.

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Photos special to the Journal

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HHS Cheerleaders Take Top Honors

The Homewood High School varsity and junior varsity cheerleaders won top honors at the UCA cheerleading camp at the University of Alabama in May. The HHS varsity team won the prestigious Leadership Award, voted on by other cheerleading squads at camp. The award is given to the squad that embodies ideal leadership qualities. The varsity squad also won first place in the “home pom” competition, first place in the cheer competition and second place in the extreme routine competition. They also won the coveted “spirit banana” award. The Homewood JV and freshman squads competed together as a JV squad, winning first place in the cheer competition and in the extreme routine competition. Along with the team awards, several cheerleaders received individual honors. Selected as All American Cheerleaders were varsity squad members Marti Frederick, Shea Appell, Brenna McClung, Kayla Acton, Celia DiCarlo and

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Holding the “spirit banana” won by the Homewood High School varsity cheerleaders at the University of Alabama Cheerleading Camp are, from left: Shannon Brennan, Kayla Acton, Marti Frederick, Brenna McClung, Shea Appell, Celia DiCarlo and Courtni Dupree.

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Photo special to The Journal

Shannon Brennan and JV squad members Patricia Flach, Megan McClung, Erin Moss and Erin Roberts. Shannon Brennan and

Courtni Dupree also received a special honor awarded to a select group of girls who embodied the true spirit of a cheerleader. ❖

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24 • THURSDAY, JULY 29, 2010

SCHOOLS

OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL

OLS Teens Celebrate Christmas in July

Christmas came early for more than a dozen teenagers at Our Lady of Sorrows Church in Homewood. The teens, members of the parish’s high school youth group, got together July 7 for a Christmas in July party. Those who attended brought wrapped items for a white elephant gift exchange, decorated cookies and played Christmas trivia. Some teens wore “tacky” Christmas attire. Chelsea Piper is OLS director of youth ministries.

VHHS Dance Teams Win Camp Honors

Vestavia Hills High School varsity and junior varsity Rebelettes came home with awards from a �� National Dance Alliance summer �� camp at the Guntersville State �� Park resort. The alliance selects award winners at each of the more �� than 1,100 camps it offers each year. The varsity Rebelettes awards included the “home routine” supe.99 rior ranking and a bid to nationals, �� team dance excellent rating and technical excellence rating. The JV Rebelettes received the team dance superior rating and superior showmanship. All American Team members and nominees from VHHS were Rachael Snow, Maria Inman, Leah Dennis, Hannah Moss, Barbara Thornton, Amanda Welch and �� Emily Pilkerton. Other Rebelette All American �� nominees were: Jane Thornton, � �� Peaches Smith, Caroline Bottcher, �� Lauren Reeder, Loren Roth, Anna �� Donze, Hannah Traylor, Anna �� Watts, Mary Kate Smith, Haley Evans, Maria Christine and Anna �� Scott Welch. Varsity captains are Hannah Traylor, Anna Donze �� and Loren Roth. JV captains are Hannah Moss and Maria Inman.

Enjoying the Christmas in July party are Our Lady of Sorrows Church high school youth group members, from left, front: Mary Claire Nabors, Natalie Giangrosso and Elizabeth Drummond. Second row: Bryan Lucas, Lauren Hankes, Sara Harrell, Erin Holt, Ann Casey Hughes and Gabrielle Smith. Third row: Caleb Weaver, Jessica Chriesman, Mary Catherine Fehr and Chris Schiller. Fourth row: Michael McCarty and Photo special to The Journal Joseph Lang.

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The Vestavia Hills High School varsity and junior varsity Rebelettes attended National Dance Alliance Camp at Guntersville State Park this summer. The team received several top rankings at the camp. Photos special to the Journal

OTM Area Students Attend Alabama Governor’s School

Sixteen Over the Mountain area students were chosen to attend the 2010 session of Alabama Governor’s School (AGS) at Samford University June 13-25. Participants included Caroline Choy, Joseph Fisher, Jeff Liu, Larry

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Alabama Governor’s School participants from over the mountain schools included, from left, front: Laura Jurotich and Jennifer Chu. Back: Lisa Shi, Marie Tucker and Summer Myrick.

Photo special to The Journal

Liu and Elizabeth Perry, all students at Indian Springs School; Laura Johnson and Valerie King, both of Chelsea High School; Johnny M. Howard III, Shelby County High School; Abby McMillan, Pelham High School; Shay Wilcox, Oak Mountain High School; Alex Fields, Spain Park High School; Jennifer Chu and Lisa Shi, Vestavia Hills High School; Summer Myrick and Marie Tucker, Briarwood Christian School; and Laura Jurotich, Homewood High School. Seventy-five students from throughout the state attended the two-week honors program for rising high school seniors. Miss Tucker, daughter of Louise and Steve Tucker, was named outstanding female student at AGS. Participants received college level experience in academics, creativity and leadership. Each student selected major and minor areas of coursework. The 16 course topics included the arts, law, health and science-related subjects, history and, for the first time this year, a class in global citizenship. AGS participants are nominated by their schools on the basis of academic ability, leadership qualities, creativity and community service. Selection is also based on teacher and guidance counselor recommendations and a studentwritten essay. ❖

THURSDAY, JULY 29, 2010 • 25

SCHOOLS/SPORTS

OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL

Diamond Club Nationals Win 11U Major Class State Title

The Princess Sehoy Chapter, National Society, Daughters of the American Revolution, celebrated Flag Day June 14 at the Emmet O’Neal Library in Mountain Brook. Regent Tad Douglas, right, gave a lesson about Betsy Ross and the flag, assisted by Mary Joyce Ponder, flag chairman. Both ladies dressed in period costumes. Red, white, and blue Photo special to The Journal cupcakes were served to those who attended.

The Diamond Club Nationals 11-year-old travel baseball team won the USSSA 11U Major Class State Tournament held in Alabaster in June. The Nationals are currently ranked No. 6 in the nation in 11U Major Class travel baseball teams, and No. 4 in the Southeast region. The Nationals will be playing in the USSSA Elite 32 World Series Tournament that will be held in Orlando at the Walt Disney World/ESPN Wide World of Sports Complex Aug. 1-8. Team members are front row, from left: John Marc Mullins, J.D. Kytle, Ethan Holsombeck, Sam

Jeffcoat and Brady Kies. Standing: Jobie Little, Sam Strickland, Wheeler Eastman, Thomas Short

and Gene Harrison Hurst. Coaches: Keith Whatley and Joe Little.

Mountain Brook 7U National All Stars

The Mountain Brook 7U National All Star Baseball team finished runner up in both the 7U Pell City tournament and the First Grade Metro Tournament. Team members are front row, from left: Caldwell McCraney, Robb Gunn, Strother Gibbs, Graham Matthews, Gordon Sargent and Miles Waldrope. Middle row: Blake Pugh, Robert Grubbs, Ryan Kampakis, Braxton Wetzler, Charles Law Schilleci and John Wilson Miller. Back row: coaches Bubba Pugh, Jason Grubbs, Rob Wetzler, Michael Schilleci and John Miller.

Brownie Troop 286 from Vestavia Hills used its cookie sale money to purchase a new table and chairs for the playroom at the Pathways Women’s Shelter in Southside. The troop of seven girls, second graders at Vestavia West and East, sold 900 boxes of cookies this year. Participating were, from left, Margaret Ann Sanders, Sophie Slemmons, Carley Phillips, Maggie Gann, Ally Baird, Jasmine Cobb and Ella Cannon. Photo special to The Journal

Girls Inc. and Troop No. 515 recently met together for an afternoon of games and getting to know each other. Cherokee Bend’s fourth grade troop chose to donate a portion of this year’s cookie profits to Girls Inc., a youth organization dedicated to inspiring all girls to be strong, smart Photo special to The Journal and bold.

Vestavia Hills All Stars 7 Year Old All Stars

Vestavia Hills 7-year-old American League All-Star Team came up just short in a dramatic extra innings title game falling to Shades Mountain Black. Team members are, front row, from left: Walt Phillips, Clayton Turner, Cole Nolan, Knox Romeo, Ethan Gutteridge and Ryan Brandon. Middle row: Carter Tyus, Bryce Littleton, Grant Uldrich, Noah Akin, Everett Holland and Jackson Halla. Back row: Head Coach Jonathan Romeo, Assistant Coaches Shane Littleton, Wes Brandon, James Nolan and Bob Phillips

The 2010 OTM High School Football Preview Special Section Coming in the August 26 issue of Over The Mountain Journal. Don’t Miss It! For advertising information please call Maury Wald, 823-9646.

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26 • THURSDAY, JULY 29, 2010

SPORTS

BUSA U12 Wins Second State Cup Title

OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL

The BUSA (Birmingham United Soccer Association) U12 98 Girls South Blue team finished another successful season by winning their second consecutive State Cup Championship in Decatur, recently. The team, coached by Adam Johnson and Jon Russell, also won the Mississippi Fire Spring Classic in Jackson, in April. Team members are front, from left: Julia Buckner, Libi Jacobs, Nealy Martin, Caitlin Street, Olivia Smeltzer, and Alexandra Dunn; back, Carmyn Greenwood, Brooke Aderholt, Josie Harwood, Sarah Kathryn Hix, and Sydney Harrington.

Madison, from back cover

Singapore on Aug. 9 – which just happens to be Mahaffey’s birthday. The team will arrive two days later and begin play on Aug. 22 against Belgium. Lady Rebel softball coach Mandy Burgess said Mahaffey is a milestone player in Vestavia volleyball history. “We’ve never had a player go international before,” said Burgess. “Madison is obviously a very good player. I couldn’t be more excited for her.”

Kickers, from back cover

he was one of the best athletes on the team. Most people don’t realize that Auburn University Heisman Trophy winner Vincent “Bo” Jackson kicked for his McAdory team in high school. Often in that time, a high school coach would come into fall practice with no idea who his kicker would be and invite tryouts from members of the general student body. The vast majority of those tryouts, however, failed to produce a first-rate kicker, so the coach would have to “draft” one of his better players into kicking duties. Another problem with high school kicking in those days was that many kickers had never put their toes on a football until

Mahaffey, who has already committed to Louisiana State University, is no stranger to travel ball. This week, she is playing in the International Junior Division of the 2010 High Performance Championships in Wisconsin. Mahaffey has also traveled to Colorado, Indiana, Kentucky, Florida and Louisiana for tryouts as well as playing on Team Sting, her club team. The last few months haven’t been a total picnic, however. In May, Mahaffey tried out for the U.S. Women’s Junior team that was to compete in Mexico for the Women’s Junior Continental Championship in July. She didn’t reaching the tenth grade. I once knew a high school coach in this area who was constantly irritated with the coach at his middle school feeder, because he never developed a kicker. The feeder school team simply went for a two point conversion every time it scored a touchdown – meaning the high school coach had to start from scratch with a new kicker every two or three years. Those scenarios sound like the dinosaur days compared to today’s emphasis on specialization. Some schools even have two placekickers: one for extra points and short field goals, the other for kickoffs and long field goals. In the summer months, colleges and high schools host kicking camps in order to give aspiring young kickers a chance to learn and hone their skills – and college coaches use them to get an early look at prospects for their own

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Madison Mahaffey, who plays middle blocker, is one of only 12 girls from across the nation to qualify for the roster. make the team, but most of the girls who did qualify were older girls who were already collegebound. The Women’s Junior team went on to win the gold medal on July 10. The Olympic team on which programs. The development of kickers in Alabama over the past 30 years is mainly attributable to two things – and both are related to a sport that high school football coaches used to love to hate: soccer. First, while soccer-style kickers – who connect with the ball with their insteps instead of their toes – became commonplace in the National Football League and in college football in the 1970s, it really wasn’t until the 1980s that they caught on at the high school level. Now, it’s almost impossible to find a program that still utilizes a traditional, straight-on kicker. The conventional wisdom is that a soccer-style kicker is more accurate because a larger part of his foot impacts the ball. I’ve never seen any statistics to verify that theory, but there’s no question that today’s specialists kick for better accuracy and more distance than their counterparts from decades ago. So who’s going to argue the point? Soccer-style kick-

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Vestavia’s Richard Named USTA Female Junior Player of the Year

Cameron Richard, daughter of Dick and Debra Richard, was selected by the United States Tennis Association of Alabama as the 2010 Female Junior Player of the Year. Cameron, a recent Vestavia Hills High School graduate, will be playing division one tennis at Liberty University in Lynchburg Virginia, in the fall.

Mahaffey is playing comprises players who are rising juniors or seniors in high school. She is a rising senior. Mahaffey’s road to Singapore began in seventh grade, when she first went out for volleyball at Pizitz Middle School. She says she wasn’t particularly talented and spent most of her first two seasons on the bench, cheering her teammates. But Mahaffey wasn’t content to ride the bench. She attended volleyball camps and played at the club level during the summer before enrolling at Vestavia. A spurt of growth helped, too, as Mahaffey shot up several inches

leading up to her sophomore season. She presently stands at 6 feet, 4 inches and earned all-star honors as a junior. Mahaffey will make her commitment to LSU official when she signs with the Lady Tigers in November. Meanwhile, Mahaffey’s got plenty on her plate as she prepares to make her first-ever trip overseas. “It’s the greatest thing that’s ever happened to me,” she said. Indeed, it’s the experience of a lifetime. When Mahaffey stepped up her volleyball game a few years ago, she couldn’t have dreamed that her skills would one day make her an Olympian.

ing is here to stay. Also, the widespread popularity of soccer at the youth league level has translated into better kickers in football. As noted before, there was a time when high school football kickers had never put their feet on a ball until they went out for the varsity team. Now, preschool kids are welltrained on kicking soccer balls even before they can ride a bicycle. While many of them continue with soccer, others make the relatively easy transition to football. Some, in fact, will kick for their school’s football team in the fall and play soccer in the spring. Of course, the third reason that kickers have come so far is money – as in scholarship money. While many major colleges rarely sign a kicker right out of high school to a scholarship, they frequently invite good kickers to walk-on with the

chance of earning a grant-in-aid later. So a young man with good kicking skills has the opportunity – if he’s good enough – to earn a free education. Looking back, it’s amazing that coaches from earlier time periods seemed to take placekicking so lightly. Having a great kicker – then and now – can make a huge difference. Remember Hoover’s state championship run in 2009, when Larsen Real’s endof-the-game field goals gave the Bucs key victories over Camden County, Ga., and archrival Spain Park. As in the case of so much else about the game, high school football kicking has come a long way the last few decades. It’s ironic that the game that the rest of the world calls football – soccer – may be the biggest reason for it.

Named to the Journal’s All-Over the Mountain baseball team last spring were David Woods, left and Paul McKelvey from Briarwood.

OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL

Spartans, from back cover

sports. “It all starts with the coaches and the kids,” said Mountain Brook athletic director Terry Cooper. A former Spartan boys’ basketball coach, Cooper has been in charge of the overall program since 1992. “The kids here want to be successful,” he said. “Whether it’s their grades, their future careers or athletics, they come from an environment where they are expected to work hard and achieve. So a lot of it comes from the way they are raised.” Cooper said that Mountain Brook’s coaches also share the commitment to excellence and understand the best way to get the maximum from their players. “Our coaches coach to the strength of the kids – who aren’t always going to be the biggest, the fastest or the strongest,” he said. “They know how to work with their players to help them reach their potential – whatever that might be. But we do have a lot of kids who are big, fast and strong.” Cooper also pointed to the strong athletic program at Mountain Brook Junior High – the high school’s only feeder – as an important key. He pointed out that the junior high recently won the Metro South All-Sports Trophy for all-around success among its peer schools. “Our junior high coaches have our kids ready to move up to high school-level competition,” said Cooper. Parental support – monetary and otherwise – is another essential ingredient. “Our parents make sure we have the resources we need and raise their kids to be prepared to work when they get here,” he said. A supportive administration may be the final piece of the puzzle. “Our school system administrators see that sports are part of

the educational curriculum, just as arts or music can be,” said Cooper. “The administration wants our students to excel in everything they do. “They understand that good athletic competition is a great preparer for competition in life.” Despite Mountain Brook’s athletic success, some still cling to the myth that student-athletes from an upscale environment are spoiled and lack a work ethic. Skeptics snickered when former Spartan track and field coach John Jarmon started a girls’ track program in the early 1970s, but Jarmon had the last laugh: Three decades later, Mountain Brook girls’ track and field had won a mind-numbing 43 state championships in girls’ cross country and indoor and outdoor track. And as far as those tennis and golf titles go, the Spartans have won a whopping 54 golf or tennis state championships since 1966. “Sometimes our kids will even use that old stereotype as a motivator,” said Cooper. “They will work as hard as anyone – or harder – to reach their goals.” Making the Spartans’ achievements all the more impressive is the numbers game. With only about 950 students in grades 1012, Mountain Brook is one of the smallest schools in Class 6A, the Alabama High School Athletic Association’s largest school classification. By contrast, football region rival Hoover has more than 2,000 students. “With our enrollment that small, we all have to work together,” said Cooper. “The support has been phenomenal.” And while the state of the program is strong, Cooper emphasized that there is always room for improvement. “The most important thing is not to relax – and never accept the idea that we can’t keep getting better. As long as we have coaches and kids that have the passion for what they do – we should be okay.” For 44 years, Mountain Brook’s athletic program has been a lot better than OK.

Golf Tournament Raises Money for Mountain Brook Schools Sports Programs

The 12th Annual Mountain Brook Sports Corporation Golf Tournament was held recently with 158 golfers participating. The tournament raised more than $58,000 for Mountain Brook Senior and Junior High School sports programs. Overall champions of the tournament, above from left: Marty Rozell, John Hardin, Jake Jordon and Lyle Cain.

THURSDAY, JULY 29, 2010 • 27

SPORTS

MOUNTAIN BROOK SPORTS CORPORATION ��

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Sports

OVER THE MOUNTAIN

JOU RNAL THURSDAY, JULY 29, 2010

Birmingham United Soccer Association U12 98 Girls South Blue Wins Second Consecutive State Cup. See page 26

Spartan Gold Mountain Brook Earns

Kiwanis All-Sports Trophy BY LEE DAVIS JOURNAL SPORTS WRITER

o be perfectly honest, most outsiders probably aren’t particularly impressed when the Mountain Brook Spartans win another golf or tennis championship. After all, they might say, if Mountain Brook – one of the wealthiest communities in the state – can’t be successful in the so-called “country club” sports, who can be? But as time has proven, Spartan athletics have been about much more than sports that are played with clubs and racquets. Since the school’s inception in the fall of 1966, Mountain Brook has built one of the most successful – and balanced – high school athletic programs in Alabama history. More evidence of the strength of the Mountain Brook program came recently, when the school won the 2010 Roy Bragg AllSports Trophy in the large school

division for the second consecutive year. Presented by the Birmingham Kiwanis Club, the award is given to the greater Birmingham area school with the best all-around athletic program. Highlighting the Spartans’ successful sports year were Class 6A state championships in girls’ swimming and diving, boys’ and girls’ cross country and boys’ tennis. Mountain Brook won area regular season or tournament championships in boys’ and girls’ basketball and sectional titles in boys’ and girls’ soccer. The girls’ soccer team also reached the Elite Eight. The Lady Spartans outdoor track team won its sectional meet. Additionally, six Spartan wrestlers reached the finals of the state meet in Huntsville. Plus, there were numerous runner-up finishes in areas and sections in a wide cross section of

Travel Time

See Spartans, page 27

Vestavia Star Heads To Singapore BY LEE DAVIS JOURNAL SPORTS WRITER

henever an athlete signs up for summer travel ball, they can count on seeing a lot of America.

Lee Davis

Kick-Start: High School Kickers Have Come A Long Way

the Alabama High School Athletic Association and Vestavia school officials to make the trip. “The Association rules say you can’t play on two teams at the same time,” she explained. “But after I said I was going to be participating in the USA Olympic team, they were fine with it.” The Youth Olympic Games will host more than 3,000 young athletes between the ages of 14-18 who will participate in nearly 30 different sports. At least 20 countries will be represented at the games. The United States team will leave for

n the next few weeks, I will talk to a lot of high school football coaches about their team’s prospects for 2010. Some will express concern about their squad’s youth and inexperience. Others will admit they’re worried about a lack of depth at certain positions. All will be cautiously optimistic about the upcoming season. Very few will be concerned about not having a quality placekicker. As much as high school football has evolved since the 1970s, the one area that may have developed the most is the art of placekicking. When I was in high school, if a team had a kicker that could consistently convert pointsafter-touchdowns, it was fortunate. If he could kick a field goal of any distance, that was icing on the cake. And there were no such things as kicking “specialists.” The typical high school kicker in the 1970s almost always played another position, usually because

See Madison, page 26

See Kickers, page 26

Mountain Brook High School won the 2010 Roy Bragg All-Sports Trophy in the large school division for the second consecutive year. Some of the members of the Spartan athletic program that helped the school achieve this success are, above from left: Bucky McMillan, boys basketball coach, led Mountain Brook to the Area 12 Tournament title and the Sweet 16 in the Northeast Regionals; Susan Farlow who coached the Mountain Brook boys tennis team to the state championship for the second consecutive year and the girls tennis team to a fourth place finish and Terry Cooper who has been the Spartans’ athletic director since 1992. Journal photo by Emil Wald

In Madison Mahaffey’s case, she’s going to see a lot of the world. The Vestavia Hills volleyball standout is the sole Alabamian on the United States girls’ team scheduled to participate in the first-ever Youth Olympic Games in Singapore slated for August 21-26. “I still can’t believe it,” Mahaffey said shortly after learning the news. “It hasn’t sunk in yet.” Mahaffey, who plays middle blocker, is one of only 12 girls from across the nation to qualify for the roster. Because of the Olympics schedule, she will miss the first two weeks of school so she had to receive permission from

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