Otmj Thursday, August 13, 2015
over the mountain journal ❖ otmj.com
social
sports
Seventh Sign
Photo special to the Journal
Stewart Still Hopes to Reach Everest Peak Kent Stewart was in Nepal, preparing for his second attempt to climb Mount Everest, when a devastating earthquake in the area killed thousands and injured countless others. He was in a base camp tent eating a meal when the quake struck. The Seven Summits Foundation Stewart founded in 2007 has raised close to $85,000 for victims of the earthquake. For more information, visit www.sevensummitsfoundation.com.
By Lee Davis
A
s an experienced mountain climber who has reached the highest peaks on six continents, Mountain Brook businessman and lawyer Kent Stewart is accustomed to being close to danger. But no experience could have prepared him for the events of April. Stewart was in Nepal preparing for his second attempt to climb Mount Everest when a devastating
earthquake in the area killed thousands and injured countless others. He was in a base camp tent eating a meal when the quake struck. “The feeling was hard to explain,” Stewart said. “It was obvious it was an earthquake. Nothing else could feel like that.” Miraculously, Stewart and his team were unharmed. But devastation, death and injuries were everywhere. Most of the base camp was destroyed. Stewart and others worked around the clock to help doctors and nurses. “The climbers at the base camp
all pulled together,” he said. “Whatever the doctors needed, we tried to do. We didn’t have any training but were the only choice.” When contacted last week, Stewart said the passing months have given him a new perspective on the tragedy. “I’ve had a chance to process everything,” he said. “For a while it was all a blur, but not anymore. Being in a Ground Zero type situation is something you don’t ever expect to happen.” As traumatic as the earthquake was, Stewart said See stewart, page 9
inside
A lockerbie diy Mountain Brook couple creates dream home from fixer-upper. home Page 19
holy grounds The Abbey in Avondale combines coffee, church. food Page 22
Finding home International families find their place in OTM schools and communities. schools Page 24
2 • Thursday, August 13, 2015
Opinion/Contents
New Arrival at the Zoo The Birmingham Zoo announced the birth of its newest family member, a baby De Brazza’s monkey, born July 27 at about 11:35 a.m. According to a press release, the baby monkey is the second birth for both 15-year-old mother Brittany and 8-year-old father Huey. The parent’s first offspring, Poppy, was born on Memorial Day in 2014. Zoo officials say the new arrival has been spending its days nursing and bonding with its mother. The Birmingham Zoo is a member of the American Association of Zoos and Aquariums and has joined with aquariums and zoos around the world in maintaining Species Survival Plans®. An SSP is a cooperative breeding and conservation program. The Birmingham Zoo currently participates in 103 SSPs and is an active member of the De Brazza’s monkey SSP. With this pregnancy, the zoo’s veterinary staff was able to get an ultrasound and prenatal measurements, which will contribute to the understanding of De Brazza’s monkey fetal development. The breeding effort continues the zoo’s mission of “Inspiring passion for the natural world…through emphasizing conservation, education, scientific study and recreation in all aspects of the Birmingham Zoo’s exhibits, programs, facilities and activities.” Guests are invited to visit the Primate Building for the chance to see the new De Brazza’s monkey with its family. For news and updates on the baby monkey, follow the Zoo on Facebook, Instagram, Pinterest and Twitter or visit www.birminghamzoo.com. ❖
in this issue About Town 3 people 6 news 8 social 10 weddings 18
home 19 food 22 schools 24 sports 28
On otmj.com
There’s so much happening in the Over the Mountain area, we can’t fit it all in the paper! Visit www.otmj.com for more stories and photos.
murphy’s law
OVER THE MOUNTAIN Journal
House Rules
wind up as a giant stretched-out wad of My daughter and her family stayed Lycra. I fold the bath towels in thirds with us for a month waiting for their lengthwise, then in half and half again household stuff to reach Ireland. It was because it makes them unfurl properly great fun and everybody pitched in so when thrown over the shower door. the group wouldn’t be buried under wet Again, it’s a nifty system if I’m the towels and dirty dishes. one doing the laundry, but an obsessive I appreciated everyone’s efforts imposition for a helper bee. because, sadly, I am not an easy person In the dishwasher, I position the to help. “You have a lot of rules,” my short glasses closest to the sink and daughter offered. the tall glasses on the far side because I do. I know that. Not rules, exactly, it eliminates the reach when you add but there are ways I prefer to have things later on. I put the knives together things done, ways I want things orgaand the spoons together because, well, nized. why wouldn’t you? During the unloadYou’ve all heard the adage about ing process, knives go with knives and having too many cooks in the kitchSue Murphy spoons go with spoons in the silverware en. This is not an issue for me. I’ll let drawer. Why make it harder than it anybody cook for me any time. Haul has to be later on? out the pots and pans, fire up the I know, I know, I need to loosen stove, mix and measure to your heart’s content, but when it comes Haul out the pots and up a bit, and I try. I do. Sometimes, a particularly big meal, I even time to clean up, I get twitchy. pans, fire up the stove, after call in my husband, Harold, to work Both of my daughters put everymix and measure to his clean up magic. I call him the thing in the dishwasher – plastic cups, steak knives, the pot from their your heart’s content, but Dishwasher Whisperer because, by a strong distaste for coffeemaker. Maybe it’s a generawhen it comes time to motivated hand washing, he has developed the tional thing, but I can’t bring myself clean up, I get twitchy. ability to squeeze a table’s worth to do that. After a meal, there are of dishes into a single load. There’s things that go in the dishwasher and no real planning, just a can-do things that I hand wash. Sometimes MacGyver approach, but it works. I the hand wash items outweigh the applaud the man’s finesse, but I do dishwasher crowd. It makes for more it from the other room because I cannot bring myself to work, but it’s worth it. The soup kettle I got as a shower watch. present 40 years ago is still in play, the handles on my It’s possible that I overthink things. (Ya think????) I steak knives are not bleached out, and my plastic cups could go in for dishwasher desensitization therapy, some are not pitted or warped. All this extra effort is just part lessons in laundry live-and-let-live, but they’d probably of my routine, but when I impose this system on an outhave to sedate me, and who has time for that? Instead, I sider who has kindly offered to help wash up, I feel like content myself with the thought that I will embrace new an ungrateful lout. methods when they prove to work better…which, so far, It’s the same with the laundry. I hang dry 90 percent they haven’t. of my clothes, because then my slacks do not shrink, Sorry, my darlings. I’m a difficult person to help. ❖ my T-shirts do not fade, and my unmentionables do not
Farmer’s Market Finds
The fruits and veggies at farmers markets look so appealing that it seems positively churlish not to go home loaded down with bags of fresh stuff. But what to do with all the goodies after you plop them down on your kitchen counter? Vestavia Hills native Ashley Tarver wields a deft spatula when it comes to recipes using seasonal produce. Check out “Farmers Market Finds,” her new column, on our website, www.otmj.com.
OVER THE MOUNTAIN
JOU RNAL
August 13, 2015
Publisher & Editor: Maury Wald Features Writer & Copy Editor Donna Cornelius Staff Writers: Kaitlin Candelaria, Emily Williams Editorial Assistant: Stacie Galbraith Sports: Lee Davis Contributors: Susan Murphy, June Mathews, William C. Singleton III, Emil Wald, Marvin Gentry, Lee Walls Jr., Bryan Bunch, Liz Ellaby Advertising Sales: Suzanne Wald, Julie Trammell Edwards, Tommy Wald Intern: Tyler Waldrep Vol. 25, No. 15
Over The Mountain Journal is a suburban bi-weekly newspaper delivered to Mountain Brook, Homewood, Vestavia Hills, Hoover and North Shelby County areas. Subscriptions for The Journal are available for $24 yearly. Mail to: Over the Mountain Journal, P.O. Box 660502, Vestavia Hills, AL 35216. Phone: (205) 823-9646. E-mail the editorial department at editorial@otmj.com. E-mail our advertising department at ads@otmj.com. Find us on the Web at otmj.com. Copyright 2015 Over The Mountain Journal, Inc. All rights reserved. The Journal is not responsible for return of photos, copy and other unsolicited materials submitted. To have materials returned, please specify when submitting and provide a stamped, self-addressed envelope. All materials submitted are subject to editorial review and may be edited or declined without notification.
over the Mountain Views We asked several restaurants in the area what they are most looking forward to about this year’s Birmingham Restaurant Week, to take place Aug. 14-23. For more information on the event, see page 23.
“We’re looking forward to having new guests in our restaurant and showcasing some items like housemade ice cream and more French soul food that isn’t usually on our menu.”
“It’s a chance for people who don’t usually dip their foot into the scene to dive head first. You can eat for a fraction of the cost and you’re getting the kitchen’s A game.”
Rachel Tatum Catering Director, Continental Bakery/ Chez Lulu
Cory Bolton Head Chef, Primeaux Cheese and Vino
“The diversity in all of the menus is amazing. We are stuck on fried catfish with stewed tomatoes and okra and grits. Our firsttimers have enjoyed a true southern local meal here in Birmingham.” Clif Holt Head Chef and Owner, Little Savannah
“I’m most looking forward to having some new people come in here who haven’t ever been in The Pantry and have them learn more about The Pantry’s experience and become familiar with (Stone Hollow Farmstead).” Melissa Allen Head Chef, The Pantry
OVER THE MOUNTAIN Journal
Surf and Turf
Aug. 13 - 27 Fri., Aug. 14
Boiling N’ Bragging to Benefit Children’s of Alabama
Sat., Aug. 15
BIRMINGHAM
Art On The Rocks Birmingham Museum of Art The final installment of the Museum’s summer series will feature music by the Clear Plastic Masks. The event will begin at 7 p.m. Tickets are $15 for members and $25 for non-members. For more information, visit www. artsbma.org or call 254-2565.
Sports and seafood will come together Aug. 15 for the seventh annual Boiling N’ Bragging kick-off party at Otey’s Tavern. Attendees can look forward to wearing their favorite team colors while enjoying a low country boil. Proceeds will benefit the Critical Care Transport program at Children’s of Alabama. Rotary District 6860 is hosting the event, which will include live music, drink specials, activities for children, a corn hole tournament and a special appearance by Lance Taylor of WJOX’s Roundtable radio program. Mascots from schools such as Samford University, the University of Alabama, UAB and Auburn also will be attending the party and will be available for photos. “We are thrilled about this partnership and couldn’t be more excited about the event,” Jason Peterson, RN and
VESTAVIA HILLS
Adult Outdoor Concert Series Library in the Forest The final installment of the Library’s concert series will feature Sean Michael Ray from 6:30-7:30 p.m. The concert will take place in the amphitheater overlooking Boulder Canyon Trail. This event is free. For more information, visit www.vestavialibrary.org or call 9780155.
Rotary District 6860 is hosting the event, which will include live music, drink specials, activities for children, a corn hole tournament and more.
Aug. 14-16
BIRMINGHAM
Photo special to the Journal
transport coordinator said. “It’s a great opportunity for people in the community to not only come together to celebrate the start of football season, but also to make a great impact on our program and the children we serve.” The Critical Care Transport team is more than 30 years old and serves more than 1,000 critically ill and injured children annually. The party starts at 6 p.m. Tickets for the event are available for $20 ahead of time and $25 the day of the event. Children 10 and younger will get in for free. For more information or to purchase tickets, visit www.boilingnbragging.org. ❖
Thursday, August 13, 2015 • 3
About Town
Sports and seafood will come together Aug. 15 for the seventh annual Boiling N’ Bragging kick-off party at Otey’s Tavern.
Festival of Hope UAB Bartow Arena This concert will feature Kirk Franklin, the Newsboys, Lace from Flyleaf, Michael W. Smith, Tasha Cobbs and many others. Franklin Graham will deliver a message following the concert. The concert will take place from 7-9:30 p.m. on Friday, 6-9:30 p.m. on Saturday and 5-7:30 p.m. on Sunday. Admission is free. For more information, visit www. greaterbirminghamfestival.org or call 957-6580.
BIRMINGHAM
BBQ at the Zoo Birmingham Zoo Holy Family Cristo Rey Catholic High School will host this year’s 2015 barbecue event from 12-7 p.m. Patrons can sample a variety of barbecue dishes, music, children’s activities and a beer garden. Admission is $10 and proceeds benefit Holy Family and their work-study program. Food and beverages are an additional cost. For more information, visit www.hfcristorey. org. BIRMINGHAM
Sozo Children Dinner Cahaba Grand The Sozo Children - a non-profit evangelical ministry and home for children in Uganda - will host their 5th annual fundraiser featuring a silent and live auction with food and speakers from 5:30-9 p.m. Tickets are $80 per person and the dress is business casual. For more information and ticket purchasing, visit www.sozochildren.org/dinner.
diamonds and JBR aRe foReveR! 619 Montgomery hwy, vestavia hills
First impressions count ...
www.1561woodridgeplace.com Maury $1,175,000 To: From:
Over The Mountain Journal
Date: August 2015 ExcEptional in EvEry way with ExquisitE appointmEnts throughout, this convEniEntly locatEd homE is a havEn of rElaxation. "Living at its best..."
This is your AD prOOF for Over The MOun August 13, 2015 issue. please approve, initial and your sales representative as soon as possib
please initial and fax to 824-1246 cell: 205-222-1817 office: 205-870-8580 2850 Cahaba Road • Suite 200 Mountain Brook www.lahrealestate.com
shelleyw@ lahrealestate.com
if we have not heard from you by 5 p before the press date, your ad mu
Thank you for your promp
4 • Thursday, August 13, 2015
About Town
OVER THE MOUNTAIN Journal
By Donna Cornelius
HOMEWOOD
Second Annual Block Party Homewood Library The Homewood Library Foundation’s annual fundraiser will take place in the parking lot from 5-8 p.m. The event will include food samplings from local Homewood restaurants, music and outdoor activities. Adult tickets are $20 and children’s tickets are $5. For more information, contact Heather Cover at hcover@bham.lib.al.us or call 332-6621.
Teams that compete in the football-focused fundraiser set up in full game day mode, with decorated tents, food and plenty of spirit.
Journal photo by Kaitlin Candelaria
You can always count on some fan favorites at The Bell Center’s annual Tailgate Challenge. Teams that compete in the football-focused fundraiser set up in full game day mode, with decorated tents, food and plenty of spirit. University of Kentucky folks traditionally trot out their much-admired bourbon balls, and Longhorns from the University of Texas – Bell Center founder Betty Bell’s alma mater – dish up hearty chili, said Kelly Peoples, the Center’s fund development director. The Tailgate Challenge raises money for The Bell Center in Homewood, which provides early intervention services for infants and toddlers at risk for development delay. This year’s event on Aug. 29 likely will draw the usual SEC suspects, including Alabama and Auburn, of course. But there are always a few surprise entries, Peoples said. “We have a team from Kansas State University signed up this year, and last year, we had a group from the University of Michigan,” she said. “And as soon as Missouri and Texas A&M joined the SEC, we had teams from those schools show up.” High school teams are welcome, too. Homewood High School, Mountain Brook High School and Vestavia Hills High School will join the lineup this year, Peoples said. Judges pick winners in three categories: food, team spirit and best all-around. There’s also a People’s Choice award voted on by those who attend the event. “It’s fun to see how excited the team mem-
having to provide that much food,” Peoples said. “But we tell them they just need to have enough for small samples.” The Tailgate Challenge has so many entries that two teams of judges are required. One team will be made up of the WJOX Round Table crew: Ryan Brown, Jim Dunaway and Lance
From left: Colby Nicholson and Drew Brignac, community volunteers, Missy Haughery, parent, Wayne Miller, parent and past board president and Stacey Morales and Kelly Peoples, staff.
Preseason Warm-up
Football Fans Get in Game Day Mode at Tailgate Challenge bers get when the judges visit their tents,” Peoples said. Some diehard fans go all-out with their tent decorations. An Auburn team replicated a postgame Toomer’s Corner scene with fake trees draped with toilet paper, Peoples said.
Sun., Aug. 16 BIRMINGHAM
Sweet Home Brews Railroad Park The Ronald McDonald House Charities of Alabama’s junior board presents a beer tasting from 1-5 p.m. Music will be provided by the Simone Durand Trio and The Fish Market will serve a shrimp boil plate for $14 per person. Tickets to the event are $30 in advance. To purchase tickets, visit www. rmhca.org or call 521-9933.
Wed., Aug. 19 BIRMINGHAM
SMITH Trunk Show Gus Mayer Smith Sinrod, headlining designer for the 57th annual Linly Heflin Luncheon and Fashion Show will hold a trunk show featuring her line of contemporary women’s clothing from 10 a.m.-5 p.m. The fashion show will take place Oct. 14 at the Sheraton. For more information, visit www.linlyheflin.org/fashion-show/.
Thurs., Aug. 13 HOOVER
Meet the Artist Aldridge Gardens From 6-8 p.m., the Gardens will host a reception in honor of Alabama artist Don Estes. This event will kick-off the exhibition of his work, displayed in the Gardens’ Historical Collections Museum through September. For more information, visit www.aldridgegardens.com or call 682-8019. ❖
Thurs., Aug. 20 HOOVER
The Glass Jars Hoover Library The Glass Jars, featuring a viola, guitar, bass and percussion, will perform at The Plaza from 6:30-7:30 p.m. This event is free. For more information, visit www.hooverlibrary.org or call 444-7821. HOOVER
Bowling for Rhinos Brunswick Riverview Lanes From 7-9 p.m., the Birmingham Zoo will host bowling for $20. All proceeds
The fun begins early when some teams set up smokers and grills. Peoples said many participants have full tables of food for those who attend to sample. “We usually have between 750 and 1,000 who come, so people can be intimated about
Taylor. The other judges’ group includes sports gurus Reed and Will Lochamy, who have a show on the SEC Network, and Alec Harvey from AL.com. The Tailgate Challenge is from 11 a.m.-2 p.m. in Homewood. The city’s 29th Court South and part of Central Avenue will be blocked off for the event. In addition to food and football spirit, the fundraiser includes live music, beer from Good People Brewing Co. and a kids’ zone presented by Covenant Classical Schools. Admission is $15 for ages 11 and older and $5 for ages 4-10. There’s no admission charge for ages 3 and younger. For more about the event, including information about hosting a team tent or sponsorships, visit www.thebellcenter.org or call Peoples at 879-3417. ❖
will go towards rhino conservation through the International Rhino Foundation. For more information, visit www.birminghamzoo.com/events/ or call 991-3900.
Fri., Aug. 21 BIRMINGHAM
Sips for CF Alabama Theatre The Laps for Cystic Fibrosis Foundation will hold their seventh annual wine tasting competition at 7 p.m. Teams of one to three persons must bring three bottles of the same wine - two for tasting and one for the grand prize. The top three teams will split the multi-bottle prize. Tickets are $30 per person and can be purchased at www.lapsforcf.org or by calling 8719140. BIRMINGHAM
BMA Speaks to Birmingham Birmingham Museum of Art Featuring a new format with poetry, spoken work and hot topics, the Museum will host their newly improved BMA Speaks program from 6-8 p.m. This month, Sharrif Simmons and Max Rykov will host the event focused on work from the exhibition “Black Like Who?” This event is free. For more information, visit www.artsbma.org or call 254-2565.
Sat., Aug. 22 BIRMINGHAM
Fairy Tale Ball Cahaba Grand Conference Center The junior board of Childcare Resources presents a family-friendly gala from 6-9 p.m. Proceeds from the ball benefit Childcare Resources’ efforts
Sat., Aug. 22 BIRMINGHAM
The Hope Gala A Private Club in Birmingham The American Cancer Society will host their annual gala from 6 p.m.-midnight honoring Amy and Keith Richards, founders of Taziki’s Mediteranean Cafe.Tickets are $250 and proceeds support the ACS projects and programs. For more information and ticket purchasing, visit www.hopegalabirmingham. org or call 930-8883. ❖
The 2015 Hope Gala Chairs Katherine DeBuys and Tracey Anderson, above, are making plans for an event that will include silent and live auctions, music and a seated dinner.
and programs to provide quality care and education to children. Tickets are $20 for children 12 and under, $90 per adult and children 2 and younger enter for free. For more information, visit www. ccr-bhm.org or call 945-0018 ext. 306. BIRMINGHAM
Autism Shines Gala Birmingham Marriott The Autism Society of Alabama’s annual gala will take place Aug. 22 from 6-10 p.m. The event will feature emcees from JOX Roundtable, music, dinner and live and silent auctions. Tickets are $65. For more information and ticket purchasing, visit www.autismshinesgala. com.
Thursday, August 13, 2015 • 5
About Town
OVER THE MOUNTAIN Journal BIRMINGHAM
Beer, Bands and Bullies Avondale Brewing Bama Bully Rescue’s fifth annual fundraiser will take place from 4-10 p.m. featuring music from Atticus Avenue, DJ LeeJ and the Mad Hatter Dance Company, Creature Camp and more. Admission is $10 and proceeds benefit the organization’s efforts of find homes for abandoned, abused and neglected pit bulls and “bully” breeds. For more information and ticket purchasing, visit www.bamabully.org.
host a ball to support the Mary Alice Beatty Scholarship, awarded annually to a young woman age 15-25 pursuing a career in aviation and aerospace technology. Guests are encouraged to dress in 1940’s attire or military dress. Admission is $25 and includes one drink ticket, a swing dance session and food from Jim N’ Nicks BBQ. For more information, visit www. southermuseumofflight.org or call 8338226.
Save The date Fri., Sep. 11 BIRMINGHAM
Send About Town information to: editorial@otmj.com
Music Under the Stars St. Marks Episcopal Church At 6 p.m., St. Mark’s will host an outdoor jazz concert featuring Shaun
Jones Lawn & Landscape
OUR 118 YEAR TH
MCCALLA
Baby Steps Memorial Run Tannehill Ironworks The 7th annual 5K and 1 mile fun run will benefit the Amelia Center at Children’s of Alabama. Packet pick-up will begin at 7 a.m. and door prizes and awards will follow the run. Online individual or team registration is available until Aug. 12 beginning at $20 for the 1 mile or $30 for the 5K. For more information, call 603-6049 or visit www.babystepsal.org.
Pezant, Gary Wheat, Cleve Eaton and more. Tickets are $28 in advance or $32 at the door. For more information, visit www.stmarks.dioala.org or call 3228449.
BIRMINGHAM TRUNK
Same day Ring Sizing! 619 Montgomery hwy, vestavia hills
Luggage Business Cases Leather goods gifts
Since 1989 “We can get your yard where you want it to be.”
Weed Control • Flower Beds Shrub Care • Hardscapes Mon.-Sday at. 10-5 Ring Sizing! Contact George next Jones deSign! CuStom
2712 19th Street South, hoMewood 870-0971 619 Montgomery hwy, vestavia hills
619 Montgomery hwy, vestavia h 205-478-4552
Sun., Aug. 23 BIRMINGHAM
Sun., Aug. 16 & 23 MOUNTAIN BROOK
The Gardens of Downton Abbey Emmet O’Neal Library and Homewood Library June Mays traveled to Highclere Castle, the filming location for Downton Abbey, to photograph the gardens - which were never shown on the series. Her presentation of the garden photos will occur at Emmet O’Neal Library Aug. 16 at 3 p.m. and at Homewood Library Aug. 23 at 3 p.m. Admission is $20. For more information, email junemays@ bellsouth.net or call 541-3740. ❖
Mad Hatter’s Tea Party Beverly McNeil Gallery The Magic City Choral Society will host an afternoon tea party from 3-5 p.m. featuring games, crafts, food and live entertainment. Prizes will be awarded for the best costume and most outrageous hat. Tickets are $35 for adults and $10 for children. For more information, visit www. magiccitychoralsociety.org.
Wed., Aug. 26
To: From: Date:
Remount youR diamondS!
Have youR CHain RepaiRed today!
619 Montgomery hwy, vestavia hills
619 Montgomery hwy, vestavia hills
Ken Over The Mountain Journal, PHONE: 205-823-9646 FAX: 205-824-1246 Jan. 2015
BIRMINGHAM
This is your AD PrOOF from the OvEr THE MOuNTAiN JOurNAl for the Jan. 15, 2015 issue. Please fax approval or changes to 824-1246.
Bombers and Bombshells Ball Southern Museum of Flight From 7-11 p.m., the Museum will
Please make sure all information is correct, including address and phone number! Please initial and fax back within 24 hours.
if we have not heard from you by 5 pm of the Friday before the press date, your ad will run as is. We print the paper Monday.
Thank you for your prompt attention.
To: From: Date:
Maury Over The Mountain Journal August 2015 This is your AD prOOF for Over The MOunTAin JOurnAl for the August 13, 2015 issue. please approve, initial and fax to 824-1246 or contact your sales representative as soon as possible to make changes.
64 Shades Crest road
Reduced for Quick Sale Beautiful home - Incredible View! Updated and Move-In Ready Come See for Your Self!
For more information go to JamesHarwell.com
James Harwell
President, Bham Assoc. of Realtors
Over the Mountain Office 1220 Alford Avenue • 205.281.4731
please initial and fax to 824-1246 within 24 hours. if we have not heard from you by 5 pm of the friday before the press date, your ad must run as is.
Thank you for your prompt attention.
Rehab Reality by Jeff (Bonzo)
People
Cinematic City Forman Makes Movie Magic For Sidewalk Film Festival
By Kaitlin Candelaira
Back to School. Back to Worry.
As excited as parents can be about finally getting through the summer, they still can’t entirely relax just because the kids are in school. Here are a few things you can do: 1. Have the “drug and alcohol” talk with your child. Equip them with the facts about drug and alcohol using consequences. 2. Pay attention to red flags of issues such as depression and anxiety. A very large percentage of young people self-medicate in order to experience relief from untreated psychiatric issues. 3. Know who your kids are hanging out with. The most significant indicator of drug use is peer group. If your child is hanging out with drug users or kids who drink, odds are your child is also doing it. 4. Support their efforts to participate in sports, drama, clubs or other healthy social activities. Kids who are active in these pursuits are less likely to recreationally use drugs or alcohol. 5. Have dinner together with your children at least once a week to maintain a healthy, meaningful dialogue. Listen to them. 6. Don’t expect the school to solve the ‘family time’ for them or give them the sense of belonging. Sending your child away to school or college won’t protect them from the possibilities of falling into habits that can ruin their lives. Many times there are issues that only reveal themselves when away from the protective home environment... nothing can take the place of family and understanding.
850-687-6831
www.bayshoreretreat.com Destin, FL Healing water front setting Licensed & court approved
OVER THE MOUNTAIN Journal
Michele Forman never thought she’d move back to Birmingham. After leaving Mountain Brook to attend Harvard and falling in love with film studies, she never imagined that she’d be able to pursue her dreams of being a documentary filmmaker in the Magic City. “I’ve always loved visual arts and literature, and in college I had the opportunity to start learning how films are made and it’s truly both of those things,” Forman said. “It’s
‘It was really the film ‘Four Little Girls’ that brought me back. I was the associate producer for the film and it re-introduced me to Birmingham and for the first time, I saw it in a professional light.’ Michele Forman the best of visual arts and the best of storytelling. I never thought I’d be able to come back to Birmingham and work in my area.” Forman met Spike Lee during her time at Harvard. He taught her screen writing class. After college, she found herself working alongside him in New York at his film-making company. “It was really the film ‘Four Little Girls’ that brought me back,” Forman said. “I was the associate producer for the film and it re-introduced me to
Birmingham and for the first time, I saw it in a professional light.” Around this time, Forman said, Birmingham was beginning to change. “The changes we’re seeing now are really the result of the labor of so many people for decades,” Forman said. “Eric Jambor and Wayne and Kelly Franklin worked together in commercial video production and all three knew that there were films out there but they weren’t coming to Birmingham, so they had the idea to bring a film festival to town.” As the trio organized the first meetings for what would become the Sidewalk Film Festival, they reached out to Forman, who in turn solidified her decision to return to her hometown. “That was really instrumental to my return to Birmingham,” Forman said. “I began to see so many committed people around the city doing such innovative and creative things.” Now in its 17th year, the festival is nationally recognized. It has been named one of the 10 best movie festivals in the country by both USA Today and Time magazine. However, there were some hurdles in the beginning. “I think it brings really high-quality, wonderful films to Birmingham and to our community that ordinarily wouldn’t play here,” Forman said. “In the beginning, we had to go and convince filmmakers to come because they didn’t think it was really worth their time. We’d go to film festivals and really evangelize Birmingham. Now, it’s a movie destination and it really puts Birmingham on the map.”
Double Take
Vestavia’s City Manager and Twin Film “Family Feud” By William C. Singleton III
Vestavia Hills City Manager Jeff Downes and his family will appear in an upcoming segment of “Family Feud.” The show’s producers are supposed to contact Downes and his family when the show is scheduled to air, he said. Downes can’t disclose how his family fared on the popular game show hosted by comedian Steve Harvey. “I can’t say what the results were, but it was a very interesting process to go through,” he said. Downes will appear on the show with his wife, Penny; his identical twin brother, Greg; his brother’s spouse, Kimberly; and his niece, Lauren. Greg and his family live in Atlanta. The idea to appear on “Family Feud” came from his niece, who thought a family with identical twin
brothers would appeal to the show’s producers, Downes said. She submitted an application the Wednesday before Father’s Day to audition for the show, he said. She heard from the producers a few days later requesting they attend an audition in Atlanta on Father’s Day. Two weeks after the audition, the family received a call to return. “We were one of 11 families to show up on July 22 for a potential filming of the show,” Downes said. Ultimately, six families were chosen, including the Downes. “Being identical twins, we played that up,” the city manager said. “My twin brother and I wore the same clothes. We talk so much alike, and when Steve Harvey came out on the stage on the day of filming, he did a double take when he looked over at us.” Typical of families on the game show, the Downes showed a lot of
Photo special to the Journal
6 • Thursday, August 13, 2015
Michele Forman and her husband, Erik Lizee, at last year’s Sidewalk Film Festival. Forman is on the founding board for the event and is now serving as the board’s chairman. This year’s festival will take place Aug. 28-30.
Forman credits the festival for bringing major thought leaders and media leaders into the city. “We thought the mission was to bring film to Birmingham and of course that’s what we do, but the secondary impact is that we’re spreading the word about how great Birmingham is,” Forman said. “These people are returning to London and New York and LA and they have an experience of Alabama that’s very different and that counteracts a lot of stereotypes the rest of the world holds about us.”
Birmingham is a great place for a film festival because of the traditions here as well, she said. “In terms of the stories, we are great storytellers here in the South,” Forman said. “I think the richness of the storytellers shows on screen. The people and stories here are so compelling.” Forman now serves as the chairman of the board for the festival. This year’s Sidewalk Film Festival will take place Aug. 28-30. Tickets are available for purchase at www.sidewalkfest.com. ❖
enthusiasm. “The people of ‘Family Feud’ said excitement and enthusiasm will get you through to the show, and we did that every time,” he said. “We did a lot of clapping and saying ‘Good answer!’ We high-fived one another.” Downes said he learned it’s much easier to play the game from home than it is on stage. “I could answer questions better in the audience than I could being
under the pressure of the lights and cameras, and Steve Harvey getting ready to make fun of you when you didn’t say the exact right thing.” Though Over the Mountain residents and “Family Feud” viewers will have to wait a while for the results, Downes said participating in the show was well worth the experience. “We really just saw it as a great way to make a memory as a family,” he said. ❖
From left to right: Jeff Downes, his wife, Penny; niece, Lauren; Kimberly Downes; her husband, Greg, who is also Jeff’s identical twin.
MBHS Graduate Conducted for the Fighting Irish
Photos special to the Journal
Mountain Brook High School alum Jay Johnstone, below, recently completed his college career at the University of Notre Dame. Johnstone played trombone in the marching band, the top symphonic band, the jazz
ensemble, the orchestra and the New Orleans-style brass band. Johnstone served as head drum major this past year for the 380-member Band of the Fighting Irish, the oldest collegiate marching band in the United States, having been founded in 1846. Johnstone also was drum major of the Mountain Brook High School Spartan marching band during his senior year. The drum major usually is the top student leader in a marching band and is responsible for conducting the band on the field, in rehearsals and during performances. Johnstone’s band career began in the sixth grade as a band student at Crestline Elementary and continued through his years in the Mountain
Thursday, August 13, 2015 • 7
People
OVER THE MOUNTAIN Journal
Brook Junior High and high school band programs. Within two weeks of arriving at Notre Dame, Johnstone was marching into the stadium in front of 80,000 fans. In addition to being a trombonist and band member, Johnstone is a pianist and has been involved in choral music activities. He was in choral ensembles at Mountain Brook High School and in the famed Notre Dame Glee Club men’s chorus. Johnstone arrived back in Mountain Brook June 13 after touring Europe with the Glee Club as part of its 100th anniversary. According to Johnstone, one highlight of his time in the Notre Dame Band was the 2013 BCS National Championship game in Miami, between the Alabama Crimson Tide and the Fighting Irish. The game provided Johnstone the opportunity to reunite with several of his former MBHS band friends who were in the Million Dollar Band. Johnstone is the son of Amy and John Johnstone of Mountain Brook. Both of Johnstone’s parents are musically inclined and sing in the Alabama Symphony Orchestra Chorus. John Johnstone also is an accomplished pianist and Amy Johnstone is a cellist.
focused on the inclusion of special needs individuals in the community. To achieve this goal, McFillin started the Inclusion Club, in which students visit the special needs classroom and participate in activities together. “By earning the Girl Scout Gold Award, (McFillin) has become a community leader,” said Mary Charles, interim chief executive officer of the Girl Scouts of North-Central Alabama. “Her accomplishments reflect leadership and citizenship skills that set her apart.”
According to the Girl Scouts of North-Central Alabama, the girl who goes for the Gold embraces challenges, achieves excellence and works diligently to make the world a better place in her own unique way. Each girl earning her Gold Award must demonstrate excellence through a leadership project totaling more than 65 hours. By earning her Gold Award, McFillin will be recognized by the president of the United States, the U.S. Congress, the U.S. Armed Services, state
legislatures, colleges and universities and the American Legion. ❖
come see what's new! 619 Montgomery hwy, vestavia hills
Heart of Crestline: 763 Montgomery Drive
Hoover’s McFillin Earns Girl Scout Gold Award Meredith McFillin, a senior at Hoover High School, recently earned the Girl Scout Gold Award. McFillin earned the Gold Award for her project Club of Angels, which
Meredith McFillin
Rotary Club of Vestavia Hills Announces New Officers Fran Buchan has been elected as the 2015-16 president of the Rotary Club of Vestavia Hills. Buchan, senior vice president of wealth management with Merrill Lynch, Pierce, Fenner & Smith Incorporated, was passed the president’s gavel by immediate past president Scott Selman at the July 10 meeting. “I’m honored to serve as the 2015-16 Vestavia Hills Rotary Club president,” Buchan said. “We’re building a legacy of past club leaders in support of local and global programs like Vestavia’s math and debate teams, scholarships to outstanding Interact Club students, clean water and educational projects in Africa and eradication of polio. Rotary is a great place for business and civic leaders to meet each other, work toward common goals and have fun.” Other new officers include Steve Hendricks, vice president; David Martin, secretary; and Joe Perez, treasurer. Committee chairs are Taney Brazeal, club administration; John Bullard, membership; Maury Wald, public relations; Dan Garrity, service projects; Greg Jeane, RI Foundation; Kent Howard, Iron City Chef; George Gammill, sergeant at arms; and Don Wiginton, parliamentarian. The Club’s major project of the year is Iron City Chef, a competition that pits local chefs against each other in an “Iron Chef” style culinary battle. This year, the sold out event benefited local and international Rotary programs and the Vestavia Hills city schools math and debate teams. The 63-member club meets every Friday at noon at the Vestavia Hills Board of Education office. ❖
Rotary Club of Vestavia Hills new president Fran Buchan, left, recognizes past president Scott Selman at a recent meeting of the club.
To: From: Date:
MLS: 632159
Maury Over The Mountain Journal August 2015
This is your AD prOOF for Over The MOun August 13, 2015 issue. please approve, initial and your sales representative as soon as possib
please initial and fax to 824-1246
if we have not heard from you by 5 p
Spectacular new home taken down to studs and rebuilt with every carebefore and the amenipress date, your ad mu ty. 5br, 4ba, and 2 half baths. Full basement with bonus room-could be 2nd kitchen, you Kitchfor your promp 2nd laundry, or office. New master suite. Huge, luxury master bathThank and closet. en is top of the line with custom cabinetry. Enjoy the outdoors from the front porch, main level open deck, and covered patio. So many amenities...a must-see!
Kim Maddox (205) 790-4044 For inspired ideas on buying and selling real estate locally, nationally, or globally, contact ARC Realty at (205) 969-8910.
A Relationship Company
arcrealtyco.com
News
8 • Thursday, August 13, 2015
OVER THE MOUNTAIN Journal
School Board Drops Bus Fee Plan u hoover
By William C. Singleton III
Journal photos by William C. Singleton III
Hoover School Superintendent Kathy Murphy discusses her recommendations to restore free bus service.
Hoover resident Dan Fulton celebrates the city school board’s decision to restore free bus service for Hoover students.
Hoover’s decision to eliminate free bus service. The Justice Department had asked Hoover school officials to justify their decision to charge a fee for bus service. Murphy said she didn’t
u Vestavia Hills
Investigators Ask Public for Help to Solve Condo Fire
Journal photos by Emily Williams
Vestavia Hills officials are calling on the public to aid in their investigation in an arson case involving the July 30 fire at the Vestavia Terrace condos. At a press conference on Aug. 3, Vestavia Hills Fire Marshal Cpt. Scott Key announced that the condo fire was found to be intentionally set. The fire resulted in an estimated $4 million in property damage and is being considered a total loss for the company in charge of revitalizing the condos. “In my 16 years with the department, this is the first case of this magnitude that we are aware of,” Key said.
The fire at the Vestavia Terrace condos resulted in an estimated $4 million in property damage.
Fire investigators are asking for help from the public to solve the case. “If they have heard anything through social media, word of mouth or anything that they feel could help us, we’re asking for it,” Key said. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives is offering a $5,000 reward for any information that leads to an arrest and conviction. Construction of the condos began in 2005 and, according to Key, the project was nearly finished. All units were vacant so no residents were harmed in the fire, but one fire fighter was injured as a result. The investigation is being conducted by Key in conjunction with the Vestavia Hills Police and ATF. Investigators have incorporated a national bomb arson tracking system to investigate similar fires that have occurred across the country. Any information regarding the Vestavia Terrace fire may be submitted by calling the Alabama Arson Hotline at 1-800-654-0775 or through the Fire Marshal at www.firemarshal.alabama. gov. — Emily Williams
losophy. All I can do is base my decisions on my philosophy and what I feel is right for children and what I feel is right for students.” The initial decision to cut bus
want to blame the Justice Department for her recommendation. “I’m going to take ownership of this,” she said. “My recommendation to the board was initiated by my phi-
service was recommended by Andy Craig, Hoover’s former school superintendent now working at the Alabama Department of Education. Craig said at the time that a fee-based transportation service was necessary to offset a growing deficit. Murphy said the school system still needs to look at ways to handle spending, but cutting bus service isn’t an area where it should shave expenses. “I think there are a number of places we can look at our budget that can offer us some savings similar to that of charging parents for bus service,” she said. “I’m going to take a very close look at the entire budget of this school district and the entire financial side of this school district, and I want to look for the very best and savvy ways we can be good stewards of this community’s money and try to minimize any negative impact that might have on our parents and our children.” A fee-based bus service would have generated about $2 million annually for the Hoover school system, Murphy said. ❖
u birmingham
PreSchool Partners Celebrates New Facility on Montevallo Road After 20 years of sharing, renting, searching and moving, PreSchool Partners will finally have a space to call their own. The local non-profit organization will celebrate their new home on Montevallo Road with a ribbon cutting and open house Aug. 20. PreSchool Partners is an organization dedicated to preparing inner-city preschool children and their parents for entry into kindergarten in the Birmingham School System. The organization serves 70 preschool children each year, devoting more than 800 hours of instruction per student on subjects such as colors, letters, numbers and behavioral skills, as well as enrichment classes such as computer training and art instruction. The Operation Schoolhouse project began in 2013 with the purchase of McElwain Elementary School’s former location. With help from architectural and building companies, PreSchool Partners began a $3.4 million dollar capital campaign to fund the renovations.
Photo special to the Journal
Hoover parents whose children ride buses to school won’t have to pay for bus service after all. The five-member city school board unanimously voted to rescind its April 2014 decision to cut free bus service and require families to pay for their children to ride buses to school on Aug. 3. Free bus service was scheduled to stop at the beginning of the 2014-2015 school year, but Hoover’s plan had to be approved by the U.S. Justice Department and the U.S. District Court that oversees the longstanding desegregation case involving several area schools. But new School Superintendent Kathy Murphy decided to put the issue to rest for good. “I have a huge disconnect in my mind with the idea of free public education but charging you to get on a bus to get you to school,” she said. The board’s vote drew applause from parents in the audience. Hoover parent Trisha Powell Crain said she knew the school system eventually would make the right decision. “I think we knew from the beginning that the federal officials would have a problem with fee-based transportation because it did negatively impact a protected group more than it would impact others,” she said. “I’m very pleased that it’s over. We don’t have to worry about bus fees anymore.” Murphy said both the Justice Department and the NAACP League Defense Fund – plaintiffs in the desegregation case – had questions about
The 2013 Operation Schoolhouse project comes to a close as PreSchool Partners plans to host a grand opening of their new building Aug. 20 and resume classes Aug. 31. “Operation Schoolhouse has been a dream come true for PreSchool Partners,” Executive Director Lella Hamiter said. “We finally have a permanent home to call our own in a building that was designed to specifically meet the needs of our families. We have been amazed at the generosity of our community in making this dream a reality.” The ribbon cutting of the new
PreSchool Partners location will begin at 4:15 p.m. followed by an open house. Overflow parking will be available at McElwain Baptist Church. The new school will open its doors Aug. 31. The date coincides with the program’s 20th anniversary, which will be celebrated on Sept. 28. For more information, visit www. preschool-partners.org or call 951-5151.
—Emily Williams
stewart, From page 1
it did not discourage him from climbing again. “It’s important to remember that this was not a climbing accident or Kent Stewart
any issue actually connected to Mount Everest,” he explained. “This was an earthquake. It could happen anywhere.” In fact, Stewart – who also attempted to scale Everest in 2013 – is determined to give it at least one more try. “I definitely want to try again,” he said. “I’m 59 years old, so my window is limited, but I want to do it in 2016 or 2017.” Ironically, Stewart didn’t develop an interest in mountain climbing until 2006, and that was almost by happenstance. “My wife Julie and I talked about climbing Kilimanjaro (in Africa),” he recalled. “It was just something that was on our list to do. I let her plan it and the next thing you know we were on the way.” Even after successfully climbing one of the world’s best known and most difficult summits, Stewart still wasn’t sold on his demanding new
Thursday, August 13, 2015 • 9
cover story
OVER THE MOUNTAIN Journal
hobby. “At the time I really didn’t enjoy it,” he said, laughing. “It wasn’t until I got back and reflected on it that I realized it was a cool experience.” Then the hobby became a quest; Stewart wanted to climb the Seven Summits – the highest peak on each continent. After successfully climbing Kilimanjaro, the Stewarts climbed the Elbrus in Europe, Vinson in Antarctica, Kosciuszko in Australia and Aconcagua in South America. They tried to climb Alaska’s Mount McKinley – the highest peak in North America – but failed on the first attempt. In 2011, Stewart reached McKinley’s summit, leaving only Mount Everest on his list of unconquered mountains. “Training for a mountain climb is a huge commitment of time and energy – and there’s no room for error,” he said. “There is some weight training involved, but it’s mainly aerobic work.” Stewart works with a professional trainer with expertise in climbing conditioning. The mental aspect of climbing is as important as the grueling physical routine, according to Stewart. Once a climber reaches a summit, he has little time to savor his accomplishment. “When a climber reaches the top, there’s the realization that the journey is only half completed,” he said. “Most accidents occur on the way down. There’s not a lot of time. You’ve got to get down before it starts to get dark, and there’s always the concern about storms and ava-
sharing his story. He’ll be addresslanches. You can be proud of the ing the Mountain Brook Chamber of moment and the accomplishment Commerce Luncheon on Sept. 15 at once you are safely down.” the Birmingham Botanical Gardens. Stewart joked that in some ways By that time, Stewart expects to mountain climbing was more difknow when he will challenge Everest ficult than landing on the moon. for the third time. “At least the astronauts got to walk “The clock is running,” he said. around and enjoy it for a few hours,” “But I want to give it one more he said, laughing. shot.” As far as his next attempt to And for Kent Stewart, the third climb Everest, Stewart said he would day time just Ring might beSizing! the charm. decide soon whether to attempt theSame For more information about climb in 2016 or 2017. 619 Montgomery hwy, vestavia hills the Mountain Brook Chamber of In the meantime, Stewart will be
Commerce luncheon, visit www.welcometomountainbrook.com. ❖
next day Ring Sizing! 619 Montgomery hwy, vestavia hills
Have youR RepaiRed to
Remount youR diamondS! 619 Montgomery hwy, vestavia hills
619 Montgomery hwy
Bring a lawn ch air or blanket
Rain Date: August 15
Enjoy rides & inflatables for kids, tweens & teens, a photobooth, & fun freebies from our sponsors! Family Movie will begin at Dusk. To:
Maury
Park at Cahaba Heights United Methodist From: Over The Mountain JournalChurch Date: August 2015 and ride the free shuttle to Oliver Square This is your AD prOOF for Over The MOunTAin JOurnAl for the Visit www.vestaviahills.org information. August 13,for 2015more issue. please approve, initial and fax to 824-1246 or contact your sales representative as soon as possible to make changes.
please initial and fax to 824-1246 within 24 hours. if we have not heard from you by 5 pm of the friday before the press date, your ad must run as is.
Thank you for your prompt attention.
10 • Thursday, August 13, 2015
social
Monkeying Around Camp Smile-A-Mile Gets Funky at Regions Field
C
OVER THE MOUNTAIN Journal
amp Smile-A-Mile’s junior board hosted the 9th annual Funky Monkey at Regions Field July 24. More than 700 people attended and enjoyed a silent and live auction while DJ “The Toddfather” kept people on the dance floor all night. Those enjoying the evening included Emily and Sam Heide, Tiffany Myers, Brian Vukovich, Adam Grinfield, Beth and Bruce Hooper, D’Ann and Bill Somerall, Ryan Weiss, Blaine Campbell and Lea Bone, Bridget and Efrem Miller, Katherine and Richard Brown, Ryan Weiss, Cory Reamer, Betsy Beam, Christina and Drew Hooper, John Obert, Jayne Morgan, Kellie and Todd Reece, Sarah and Zach LeBlanc, Sumner and John Rives and Allison and Justin Bacon. All funds raised will directly support the organization’s yearround programs for young cancer patients and their families as well as young adult cancer survivors from Alabama. For 30 years, Camp SAM has steadily grown, serving more than 400 campers from across the state each summer. The camp is free to all campers and their families.❖
Photos special to the Journal
Blair Sellers, Allison Lynch and Blake Rhodes. From left: Bruce and Beth Hooper and Jeff and Carrie Pomeroy.
Justin Bacon, Casey Norman, Jessica Cox, David Cox and Campbell Williams.
Cory Reamer and Betsy Beam.
Maggie Leeds, Lindsay Waldheim, Chris Saville, Alexis Marcus and Katie Jernigan.
A home is greater than the sum of its parts. But we believe the parts should be great as well. Introducing the Cherry Laurel, the first of a new series of floor plans at Mt Laurel. A home where the craftsmanship within and the premier brands throughout reflect the importance of home. Cherry Laurel Model Home open daily | (205) 408-8696 | mtlaurel.com
Greater Birmingham Association of Home Builders Gold Award Winner 2015
social
Photos special to the Journal
OVER THE MOUNTAIN Journal
From left: Mary Webb Banning, Chris Haberstroch and Brigid Lanigan.
Brewing at the Zoo Full Moon BBQ Helps Zoo Celebrate 60th
The Birmingham Zoo continued 60th anniversary celebrations and honored the year of Alabama Barbecue with the first annual Zoo, Brews and Full Moon Bar-B-Que event June 20. Over 1,400 guests made their way to the Zoo to enjoy dinner catered by Full Moon Bar-BQue, music by The Whigs and local brews provided by Good People Brewing Company. Guests were entertained with animal greetings and walkabouts throughout the Zoo. The first 1,000 guests ages 21 and up received a free 60th anniversary memorabilia cup. Children enjoyed a bouncy castle in the Zoo’s Trails of Africa area. The Red Diamond Express train Addyson, Brandon and Allison Williams.
rides and the Zoo’s carousel were popular with guests of all ages throughout the evening. Guests even had the opportunity to ride the all-
new Wild Slide. During the evening, attendees learned the costs required to take care of animals at the Zoo and had the option to symbolically “adopt” the animals with the Adopt-AnAnimal program. Through this and other measures, the Zoo aimed to promote its mission of “Inspiring Passion for the Natural World.” ❖
Thursday, August 13, 2015 • 11
12 • Thursday, August 13, 2015
Social
Pride and responsibility drive us to be the best in everything we do.
Joseph Braswell
As a life-long Over-the-Mountain resident and a third generation working at Guin, I feel great pride and responsibility in carrying on the legacy of honesty and hard work that my grandfather began over 55 years ago. Family is very important to us, and we treat our customers with the same care and respect as members of our own family. It would be a privilege to serve you.
OVER THE MOUNTAIN Journal
Wild Night
Nashville-based band Kopecky played under a blue moon at Avondale Brewery.
Freshwater Land Trust Event Rocks Avondale
Serving the Birmingham Area Since 1958
AIR CONDITIONING • HEATING • PLUMBING • GENERATORS • SEWER
Member of the Mountain Brook Chamber of Commerce
205-595-4846 • guinservice.com
AL#12175
Retirement Sale
Photos special to the Journal
Mention this ad to receive a free diagnostic service call.
The junior board of the Freshwater Land Trust, along with Vulcan Value Partners, hosted the seventh annual Land Aid event at Avondale Brewery July 31. Local band B. Snipes and Nashville-based Kopecky put on a fantastic performance for more than 400 patrons. The VIP tent was packed with guests including Temple Tutwiler, Merill Stewart, Mike Goodrich, Ann Florie, Dr. Mark Wilson, Susan Haskell, Paul Stivender, Angela Darden and Houston Smith. The proceeds from this event benefit the Freshwater Land Trust’s efforts to conserve and connect open spaces that are critic al for the protec tion of rivers and streams and also provide recreational opportunities for the communities those areas serve. ❖
Freddy Padilla, Wendy Jackson and Mary Elizabeth Roberson.
Cooking for a Cure
To: From: Date:
Emily Over The Mountain Journal, 205-823-9646 ph., 205-824-1246, fax August
This is your ad proof from the over the mountain Journal for the august 13, 2015 issue. Please contact your sales representative as soon as possible to approve your ad or make changes. You may fax approval or changes to 824-1246.
Please make sure all information is correct, including address and phone number!
Susan G. Komen Hosts Fourth Annual Chefs for a Cure Birmingham chefs teamed up June 11 for the fourth annual Chefs for the Cure. Held at The Club, the event was hosted by Susan G. Komen North Central Alabama to raise money and awareness for breast cancer. The evening kicked off with a cocktail reception presented by Cathead Vodka. Michael Cholewa mixed signature cocktails as Nick Hartmann of Ice by Design
showcased his flawless ice sculpture that held another signature cocktail. The gourmet cuisine included braised veal cheeks, stuffed artichoke hearts, southern biscuits with bacon jam, roasted garlic and rosemary crusted pork tenderloin, warm wild foraged mushroom salad, white chocolate bread pudding with raspberry coulis and more.
please initial and fax back within 24 hours.
If we have not heard from you by 5 pm of the Friday before the press date, your ad will run as is. We print the paper Monday.
Thank you for your prompt attention.
Di Di and Pam Di Piazza, Rebecca Di Piazza and Trey Hamer.
Lori Brantley, Mary Kate McCluney and Eileen McCluney.
Thursday, August 13, 2015 • 13
SOCIAL
Photo special to the Journal
OVER THE MOUNTAIN Journal
From left: Mary Amanda Hall, Allison Pounds, Katherine Tracy, Alley Morris, Tab Whisenhunt, Catherine Masingill, Susanna Bagwell, Paige Burleson and Katie Brightbill.
Debs in the Garden
Poinsettia Men’s Club Announces 2015 Debutantes The Poinsettia Men’s Club announced the 2015 Poinsettia debutantes at an afternoon party June 28 at the home of Mr. and Mrs. Ed Randle in Hoover. The Men’s Club party officially begins the debutante season and is the first of several parties in honor of the young ladies. President Tab Whisenhunt introduced each debutante to the group while giving the names of their parents and where the debutante is presently attending college. Each debutante was then presented with a scrapbook as a gift by Melissa Lassiter, president of the Poinsettia Debutante Ball board. The 2015 Poinsettia Debutantes include: Susanna Bagwell, Katie Brightbill, Paige Burleson, Katherine Burleson, Mary Amanda Hall, Kassey Lundberg, Mary Katherine Manakides, Catherine Masingill,
Joan Leslie McGill, Alley Morris, Allison Pounds, Katherine Tracy, Anna Scott Welch and Mary Frances Yeilding. The Poinsettia Debutante Ball was established in 1968 at the proposal of Mrs. John W. Gustafson. The Birmingham Ballet board of trustees gave its approval. In 1981, the Alabama Ballet was established as an outgrowth of the Birmingham Civic Ballet, the University of Alabama at Birmingham Ballet and the Alabama Ballet. Mrs. Gustafson and Mrs. Louis A. Prosch Jr. served as the first ball chairmen. Since that time, all proceeds from the Poinsettia Debutante Ball have gone to support the Alabama Ballet. In keeping with tradition, the white-gowned debutante makes her debut on the arm of her presenter, usually her father, in a setting of red poinsettias and winter greenery. The presentation and a father-daughter waltz are followed by an evening of dancing with friends and relatives attending. The 2015 debutantes will be presented at the 48th annual Poinsettia Debutante Ball December 29 at Vestavia Country Club. ❖
Alabama Ballet School 2015-2016
Register now! Open House and Performance Course Audition Sunday, August 16, 2015 at 2 p.m. Tracey Alvey, Artistic Director
Photo special to the Journal
Jerry Hartley, Edward and Ginger Matt Lagace Pegues, Jennifer and Michael of Bellini’s Laborde, Mike and Kay Wilburn, Ristorante & Kristina Wilburn, Ali Wilburn, Bar. Thelma and William Brown, While tastVeronica Wehby and Burton ing dishes and Upchurch, Di Di Di Piazza, Pam enjoying the Di Piazza, Rebecca Di Piazza, music of One Trey Hamer, Ellen Zahariadis, for the Road, Zoe Zahariadis, Janay Perry, more than 200 Tracy Williams, David and Kelly guests perused Bannister, Lauren and Addison the silent auction and took in Clowers, Jeff and Judy Nysewander, Kathy G. Mezrano, Lori Brantley, the sites of the Paige Gilliland, Courtney King, city while supNathan Pearman, Mike and Renee porting a wonWalker, Ron Parker, Vickie Elliott, derful cause. Kelley Stewart, Karl and Some g Sizing! next day Ring Sizing! CuStomW.B. and deSign! Michelle Wiggs, Mike and Jennifer of those Edward and Ginger and hwy, vestavia hills vestavia hills 619 Pegues Montgomery 619John Montgomery Chapman, hwy, vestavia hills Moon, Jinnie Susan seen in attendance include: John Lyda. Lacey, Randy Toffel and Chuck and Lyda, George McCluney, Eileen Sandra Wingate. ❖ McCluney, Mary Kate McCluney, Participating chefs and restaurants included Jeremy Downey of Bistro V, Bree Garrett of The Pantry by Stone Hollow Farmstead, Becky Rabiee of Vino, George Reis of Ocean, Charles Nichols of The J. Clyde, Jorge Castro of Cantina, Tasos Touloupis diamonds and of Ted’s Restaurant, Marco Morosini of Silvertron Café, Joe Resha of Have youR CHain JBR aRe foReveR! Remount youR diamondS! JoJo’s On Broadway, Maureen RepaiRed today! 619 Montgomery hwy, vestavia hills and Clif Holt Little Savannah 619 Montgomery hwy,of vestavia hills 619 Montgomery hwy, vestavia hills Restaurant and Bar, The Club, and
School starts August 24, 2015 For more information, visit alabamaballet.org or contact Libba Owen at 205-322-1874 or libbaowen@alabamaballet.org
Alabama Ballet is a 501(c)(3) organization Photo by Melissa Dooley
Kelli Murdock-Sylestine Alabama Ballet Dancer Graduate of the Alabama Ballet School
14 • Thursday, August 13, 2015
crestline
OVER THE MOUNTAIN Journal
Strike Up the Band Crestline Tent Sale Returns with Extra Fanfare
Thursday, August 13, 2015 • 15
tent sale
OVER THE MOUNTAIN Journal
come one, come all! Don’t Miss Extra Special Offers During the Tent Sale!
“For the Tent Sale this year we’ll have author Margaret Lowder signing her new book ‘Amos Likes to Jump.’ Her dog Amos will also be on hand to help out. Also, if you purchase $25 or more of Scout brand products you’ll get this Scout tote bag free!” 3George Jones, Snoozy’s Kids!
Crestline merchants will partner up with Regions Bank in offering a chance for patrons to win a Regions green bicycle. Guests can enter the drawing at participating merchants tents during the Crestline Tent Sale on August 22 from 8 a.m.-5 p.m. Merchants of Crestline Village are gearing up for another European-style outdoor tent sale Aug. 22. Participating merchants will be offering special sales, discounts and trunk shows throughout the day from 8 a.m.-5 p.m. Tents will be located along Church Street as well as Country Club Park. Officials with the Mountain Brook Chamber of Commerce said that this year, the sale has something extra in store for patrons. The sale will coincide with the Chamber’s “Buy Local”
campaign kick-off. The campaign encourages shoppers to continue to purchase locally produced goods in support of Mountain Brook’s local businesses. The Mountain Brook High School Marching Band, led by newly appointed Director of Bands Jason Smith will conduct a “Buy Local” pep rally as they march down Church Street. For more information go www.welcometomountainbrook. com.
Ladies and gentleman, children of all ages
“All spring and summer clothes and accessories are now $10, $20 or $35, plus we have a new 50% off rack of early fall styles and everything in the store will be 10% off during the tent sale.”
Witness A Sample of the Savings!
Four stone Carnelian wide cuff by Dina Mackney, $440. John-William Jeweller
Baggallini purse tent sale price, $10. Town & country clothes Seersucker shorts $8 (regularly $26) Once Upon A Time
“Looking forward to seeing everyone at Crestline’s Tent Sale! Great buys up to 75% off!”
“We’ve actually erected a pretty significantly sized tent inside our shop, there are some very exciting things going on in there. But there’s no net, so arrive early for a ringside seat.” 5Billy Bromberg and John Bromberg John-william jeweller
5Laurel Bassett Town & Country Clothes
5Nikki Quick Schoel Once Upon a Time
Atenttion! sale
New Nic+Zoe Now Available at
Town & CounTry CloThes
50% off
Sat., Aug. 22nd!
Under our tent!
74 Church Street • 871-7909 Monday-Friday 10-5 & Saturday 10-4
www.townandcountryclothes.com
16 • Thursday, August 13, 2015
Belles of the Ballroom
social
OVER THE MOUNTAIN Journal
A garden setting was the scene for the presentation of the 2015 Hoover Belles. The 37 high school sophomores will serve as representatives for the city of Hoover at civic and local charity events throughout their two year term, earning a minimum of 30 community service hours. This 32nd annual event was held in the Grand Ballroom of the Hyatt Regency – The Wynfrey Hotel. Hoover Police Lieutenant Dan Kane assisted each new Belle into a garden gazebo, created by Susan Huff and Beth Jordan. As she was met by her presenter, each young lady was announced by the mistress of ceremony Channa McKenna. The 2015 Hoover Belles are Molly Gail Abraham, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Samuel Joseph Abraham; Amber Rose Ajlouny, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Christopher Naim Ajlouny; Caroline Grace Bagwell,
daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Terry Joe Bagwell; Taylor Ann Brent, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. John Preston Brent III; Kara JoAnne Brooks, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Kevin Scott Brooks; Miranda Skye Causey, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Kenneth Dean Causey; Brennan Michelle Cooke, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Jeffery Wayne Cooke; Emily Gayle Couch, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Hubert Clarence Couch Jr.; Montana Eleese Darty, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Christopher Russell Darty; Rachel Lynn Dees, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. David Howard Dees; Katherine Anne Friday, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Ronald David Friday; Olivia Morgan Gault, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Ronald James Gault; Kathlynn Brooke Gilliam, daughter of Margaret Ann Scanlon and Ronald Brett Gilliam; Caroline Elizabeth Hart, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Jonathan Lewis Hart; Jordan Lee Henderson, daughter of Mr.
es
5% Sal Tax
Upscale For Less reystone Marketplace
Distinctive Interiors
Open 7 Days
Photos special to the Journal
The Hoover Belle Committee Presents 2015 Belles
Above: The Hoover Belles serve as representatives for the City of Hoover at civic and local charity events throughout their two year term. left: Lauren Lovell, Anna Mardis and Megan Schrock.
and Mrs. Jason Fox Henderson; Hannah Grace Henley, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. John Steele Henley III; Amelia Grace Hill, daughter of Dr. and Mrs. John Robert Hill; Anna Claire Johnson, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Mark James Johnson; Sarah Elizabeth Looney, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Harry Stephens Looney III; Lauren Elise Lovell, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Jeffrey Dwaine Lovell; Mary Kate Manak, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Richard Steven Manak; Anna Elizabeth Mardis, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Jeffrey Rodd Mardis; Shaelah Jo McGilton, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Phillip Jason McGilton; Rachel Anne Miller, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Donald Herman Miller; Lauren Kathleen Nicholas, daughter of Dr. and Mrs. John Giberson
Lineman Lifts Up Others
Jones Scores Big for the Firehouse Shelter Current St. Louis Rams lineman and former Crimson Tide football great Barrett Jones gave a moving message about his life, service and ministry to a luncheon crowd of 305 people June 16 at the Harbert Center. Nearly $87,000 was raised from the event. The amount nearly doubled previous luncheon totals and the turnout of over 300 shattered attendance records. All proceeds benefit The Firehouse Shelter’s seven housing programs, which serve over 215 homeless men every night. Jones’s message encouraged listeners to look for opportunities to do what The Firehouse Shelter
Alabama’s Most Unique Store
5475Sizing! Highway me day Ring
280next • Call day205-995-4773 Ring Sizing!
www.GreystoneMarketplace280.com 619 Montgomery hwy, vestavia hills
Montgomery hwy, vestavia hills
Display Ad
Nicholas; Mychael Grace O’Berry, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Preston Michael O’Berry; Lindsay McCall Overton, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Eric Dean Overton; Caroline Elizabeth Ozgun, daughter of Dr. and Mrs. Erin Michael Ozgun, Jennifer McKenley Parker, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Brian Kenneth Parker; Sarah Grace Pugh, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. James Hollis Pugh; Audrey Isabelle Edwards Roell, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Ludolph Hendrick Roell; Julia Anne Sasser, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Jason Keith Sasser; Julia Grace Sbrissa, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Robert Peter Sbrissa; Megan Elizabeth Schrock, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Thomas Herring Schrock III; Bailey Elizabeth Smith, daughter of Kimberly Richardson Smith
CuStom deSign! 619 Montgomery hwy, vestavia hills
does every day - to lift up others and encourage the broken, hurting and lost. Jones spoke of his journey to becoming an All-American athlete at the University of Alabama, winning the national championship and eventually playing in the NFL. James McCright, former Firehouse Shelter guest, gave a testimony about how The Firehouse Shelter changed his life and allowed him to build a strong foundation and kept him clean and sober.
and Eric Scott Smith; Caroline Elizabeth Willoughby, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Ian Kenneth Willoughby; and Hayden Lane Woods, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. William Hudson Woods. Following the presentation, all of the Belles and their presenters shared the traditional father-daughter dance to the music of the Sonny Harris Group. A reception followed. In addition to family and friends of the honorees, others enjoying the afternoon were members of the Hoover Belle Committee, led by Sandra Barnett. Also serving on this committee are Jennie Alley, Cathy Connor, Cathy Head, Jan Pruitt, Denise Shepherd, Becky Walker and Kay Witt. ❖
McCright received a round of applause when he finished his testimony. Executive Director Anne Wright, Development Director Doug Kovash and Board President Danny Rodgers each shared a message regarding the impact that The Firehouse Shelter is having upon the lives of the homeless living in the seven county metro area. Jeh Jeh Pruitt of FOX 6 Sports served as event emcee. Rector Kevin Bazzel from the Cathedral of St. Paul opened the event in prayer and Mark LaGory, deacon from St. Luke’s Episcopal Church, closed the luncheon with prayer. ❖
Current St. Louis Rams lineman and former Crimson Tide football great Barrett Jones speaks at a luncheon benefit for The Firehouse Shelter.
OVER THE MOUNTAIN Journal
social
Thursday, August 13, 2015 • 17
Are you ready? Over the mOuntain hiGh SChOOL FOOtBaLL PrevieW
OTMJ AUGUST 27, 2015
For inFormation about advertising in the 2015 otm high Football preview please call maury wald at 205.823.9646.
ay Ring Sizing!
next day Ring Sizing!
CuStom deSign!
mery hwy, vestavia hills
619 Montgomery hwy, vestavia hills
619 Montgomery hwy, vestavia hills
18 • Thursday, August 13, 2015
Remount youR diamondS! 619 Montgomery hwy, vestavia hills
weddings & engagements
diamonds and youR CHain JBR aReHave foReveR!
RepaiRed today! 619 Montgomery hwy, vestavia 619 Montgomery hwy, hills vestavia hills
2015 2016
Johnson-Murrell
Hilary Catherine Johnson and Matt Phillip Murrell were married May 9 at The Chapel of St. Francis at Camp McDowell. The ceremony was officiAT HOME Alabama Ballet Center for Dance ated by the Rev. Jonathan Chesney September 25 - October 4, 2015 and the Rev. Dr. James Ralph Wooten. The bride is the daughter of Dr. AMERICAN HORROR STORIES and Mrs. Walter H. Johnson Jr. of Alabama School of Fine Arts Homewood. She is the granddaughOctober 29 - November 1, 2015 ter of Mr. Walter H. Johnson Sr. and the late Mrs. Verna Johnson, both SNOW WHITE of Spartanburg, South Carolina; and Alabama School of Fine Arts October 30, 2015 the late Mr. and Mrs. Peter Perry of Devon, England. GEORGE BALANCHINE’S The groom is the son of Mr. and To: Maury THE NUTCRACKERTM Mrs. Phillip S. Murrell of Hampstead, From: Over The Mountain Journal Leslie S. Wright Fine Arts Center New Hampshire. He is the grandson at Samford2015 University Date: August of Mrs. Grace Phillips Murrell of December 11 - December 20, 2015 Hogansville, Georgia, the late Mrs. This is your AD prOOF for Over The MOunTAin JOurnAl for the Jean Arrington Johnson, the late Mr. DON August 13,QUIXOTE 2015 issue. please approve,To: initial and Maury fax to 824-1246 or contact Orbie B. Arrington and the late Mr. Leslie S. Wright Fine Arts Center your sales representative as soon as possible to make changes. at Samford University Roy Lee Murrell, all of Hogansville. From: Over The Mountain Journal February 19 - February 21, 2016 Given in marriage by her parDate: August 2015 ents and escorted by her father, the please initial and fax to 824-1246 within 24 hours. COPPÉLIA AND wore anJOurnAl original for OliatheZavozina This is your AD prOOF for Over Thebride MOunTAin THE TOYMAKER gown bought Carriage House and fax to from 824-1246 or contact if weofhave not heard from you by 5August pm of 13, the 2015 fridayissue. please approve, initial Alabama School Fine Arts was achanges. mermaid fit April 8 - April 10, 2016 the press date, your ad must run your representative as soon asWeddings. possible toItmake before as sales is. gown with a sweetheart neckline in plain ivory with real pearls down the initial and fax to 824-1246 within 24part hours. back. The veil was of the bride’s Thank you for your prompt please attention. mother’s veil and had large scalloped Tracey Alvey, Artistic Director
Tickets can be purchased by calling 205-202-8142 or visiting alabamaballet.org. Photo Credit: Arik Sokol Alabama Ballet is a 501(c)(3) organization
if we have not heard from you by 5 pm of the friday before the press date, your ad must run as is.
Thank you for your prompt attention.
Johns-Guin
Let us help you spread the word of your good news! To have our wedding & engagement forms sent to you, call 823-9646.
Laura Kathryn Johns and John Caldwell Guin were married June 6 at Independent Presbyterian Church. The Rev. Susan A. Clayton and Mr. David Seamon officiated the ceremony. The bride is the daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Harry Douglas Johns of Atlanta. She is the granddaughter of Mr. and Mrs. Carlyle Franklin Martin, the late Mr. Harry Joseph Johns and the late Mrs. Maudie Johns Sprankel. The groom is the son of Mr. and Mrs. David Jonathan Guin of Vestavia Hills. He is the grandson of Judge and Mrs. J. Foy Guin, Mr. John Senter Farrar and the late Mrs. Mary Jo Eftink Farrar. Given in marriage by her father, the bride wore a strapless gown with
OVER THE MOUNTAIN Journal
edges. She wore a Jenny Packham necklace and her sister’s belt worn at her wedding in 2012, as well as a hand-made lace garter with blue rosettes made from an item of her father’s. Vicki Wooten, sister of the bride, of Austin, Texas, was the matron of honor. Heather Watts of Birmingham was the maid of honor. Bridesmaids were Mallory Risler, sister of the groom, of Longview, Texas; Katherine Baize and Caroline Roberts of Atlanta; Hannah Patterson of Nashville, Tennessee; and Sarah Foster of New London, North Carolina. Alexander McSwain of Birmingham was the best man. Groomsmen were Phillip Murrell, father of the groom, of Hampstead; Michael Wooten, brother-in-law of the bride, of Austin, Texas; Jonathan Fiel of Fort Walton, Florida; Robert McKee of Sewanee, Tennessee; Daniel Moss of Birmingham; and Chris Risler, brother-in-law of the groom, of Longview. Jack Risler, nephew of the groom, of Longview was the ring bearer. Ushers were Marshall Yates of Birmingham; Andrew Ramsey of Olathe, Kansas; and Adam Fox of New Orleans. The reader was John Perry, uncle of the bride, of London, England. Friends of the bride and groom, Vera Britton, Haley Kirk, Marianne Griffin and Jeremy Moore, provided the music. The bride’s bouquet and flowers were a gift designed and made by Anna Collins, goddaughter of the bride’s mother, of Hampshire, England. The photography was done by Van Chaplin, family friend, of Homewood. After a honeymoon trip to Playa Mujeres, Mexico, the couple will live in Homewood. a sweetheart neckline by designer Martina Liana. It featured all-over French Alencon lace with intricate glass beading and embellishments draped over an ivory dolce satin underlay. The chapel-length veil had a satin edging. She carried a bouquet of white hydrangeas, roses, freesia and stock with pale pink peonies wrapped in ivory braided satin. Jamie Geyer Henderson and Ansley Stephens Martin attended the bride as matrons of honor. Bridesmaids were Elizabeth Pouncey Fraser, Emily Claire Guin, sister of the groom, Emily Deeter Haisten, Elizabeth Reynolds Hicks and Christen Wright Thorpe. Honorary bridesmaids were Emily Hix Dothard, Brittney Barlow Meador and Emily Grace Weihsmann. The groom’s father served as best man. Groomsmen were Tyler Caldwell Guin, Bryan Edward Holladay, Matthew Douglas Johns, brother of the bride, Philip Brooks Powell, Matthew Collin Sapp, Robert Louis Shaul and Peter Douglas Watt. Ushers were Brett Alexander Janich, Alexander Raymond Pappas and Benjamin Robert Rust. Readers were Elizabeth Pouncey Fraser and Ansley Stephens Martin. Soloist Christen Wright Thorpe sang “Come Thou Fount of Every Blessing.” After a honeymoon trip to St. Barthelemy, the couple will live in Birmingham.
Badham-Mills
Lindsey Harris Badham and Andrew Keith Mills were married May 16 at Canterbury United Methodist Church. A reception followed at The Country Club of Birmingham. The bride is the daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Walker Percy Badham III. She is the granddaughter of the late Mr. and Mrs. Phillip Paterson Poundstone of Montgomery and the late Mr. and Mrs. Walker Percy Badham Jr. of Birmingham. The groom is the son of Mr. and Mrs. Michael Wayne Allen of Birmingham and Mr. and Mrs. Charles Keith Mills of Mobile. He is the grandson of the late Mr. William Thomas Brown and Mrs. William Thomas Brown of Troy and the late Mr. and Mrs. Thomas Lamar Mills of Goshen. The bride was escorted by her father. She wore an ivory lace gown accented with a sweetheart neckline, belted with pearl embellishments. Her veil was made of Alencon lace, which held a cathedral-length train bordered by scalloped edges first worn by her mother. Callan Elizabeth Sherrod of Birmingham served as maid of honor. Bridesmaids were Sydney Ann Allen, sister of the groom, as well as Jane Comer Crockard, Virginia Lockett Farlow, Elizabeth Patricia Koepsel and Margaret Alexander Pitts, all of Birmingham; Aubry Fox Clayton of Atlanta; Dorie Farlow Edwards of Tuscaloosa; Kyle Grace Mills, sister of the groom, and Alison Lee Casteix of Mobile; and Elizabeth Blair Peelen of Winter Park, Florida. Flower girls were Bea and Claire Anderson of New York City. Dylan James Mills, brother of the groom, served as best man. Groomsmen were Phillip Paterson Badham and Walker Percy Badham IV, brothers of the bride, as well as Robert Carter Lachiney Jr. and James Middleton Montgomery, all of Birmingham; and Tyler William Fanning, Roscoe Owen Roberts IV and Walter Grant Wright, all of Huntsville. The ceremony was officiated by the Rev. Mike Holly. Music was provided by Lester Seigel, organist and Jeff Flaniken, violinist. Kelly Christine Hite of Atlanta and Mary Sophia Jones of Montgomery were scripture readers. Lenora Ireland Brown and Melissa Teel Robinson of Birmingham, and Charlotte Elena Smith of Mobile were program attendants. Following the honeymoon to the Gulf of Papagayo, Costa Rica, the couple lives in Birmingham.
home
Thursday, August 13, 2015 • 19
Journal photos by Lee Walls Jr.
OVER THE MOUNTAIN Journal
Natalie and Irving Meisler.
A Lockerbie DIY
Mountain Brook Couple Creates Dream Home From Fixer-Upper By Kaitlin Candelaria Natalie and Irving Meisler weren’t intimi-
dated by the idea of a fixer-upper when they found their dream home in Mountain Brook. In fact, Irving said he looked forward to the challenge. “I have a real passion for construction,”
Kitchen Aid
Irving said. “When it comes to houses, it’s more like an art project to me. When I start remodeling a house, I want to know how much I can do to it.” This isn’t his first renovation project. A real estate developer and builder by trade, Irving found the house with a leaky basement and a rotten roof.
“There were problems all over this house,” he said. “To me, that was an opportunity to get it for a great deal because I knew there were a lot of items I could fix.” For nine long months, the Meislers worked hard to restore the home in the Lockerbie community. Once they began the process, they See meisler, page 20
Vestavia Family Gives Kitchen Modern Update By Kaitlin Candelaria
Journal photo by Lee Walls Jr.
Maria and George Dikis moved to Vestavia
Hills last year. Their daughter, Evie, was approaching school age and they were interested in the education system. They compromised on their home; George loved the modern mid-century building, whereas the painted brick gave the house a cottagefeel that catered to Maria’s more traditional style. However, there was one thing they both agreed on – the kitchen had to go. “The kitchen looked like no one Maria Dikis had touched it since the 1960s,” Maria with her daughter Evie said. “The layout was very odd. For in the recentexample, the stove was right next to ly remodeled the refrigerator so I always felt like I kitchen of was going to catch it on fire when I their Vestavia cooked dinner.” Hills home. The couple put their heads together and hatched a plan to update their kitchen. They contacted AllSouth Appliance Group in Homewood and began working to create their dream room. “My husband likes the modern style, so See kitchen aid, page 21
20 • Thursday, August 13, 2015
home
OVER THE MOUNTAIN Journal
Make Memories Here! 90 Nautical Lane on Beautiful Lake Martin
This Cozy Cabin is located in The Narrows on ''Birmingham side of the Lake Martin'' sleeps 5 or more! Main level offers updated kitchen, family room and bedroom with bath. Lower level offers an open living area/bedroom along with bath and laundry room. Great outdoor space on both levels, easy access to deep water and great swimming. Spacious lot with garage and privacy! $274,000 Contact us to schedule your tour of this and other Lake Martin properties!
Broker / realtor (334) 312-0928 Becky@HomeonlakeMartin.com
www.HoMeonlakeMartin.coM
Beverly Ruff
is pleased to announce the opening of her new shop
....it just gets better and better
Come see Lulu and her friend Prissy! Lighting, Jewelry, Antiques, Clothing & Art Work by Renowned Southern Artist Kent Walsh 2410 Canterbury Road • Mountain Brook Village • 423-5443
Beverly Ruff
is pleased to announce the opening of her new shop
....it just gets better and better
Come see Lulu and her friend Prissy! Lighting, Jewelry, Antiques, Clothing & Art Work by Renowned Southern Artist Kent Walsh 2410 Canterbury Road • Mountain Brook Village • 423-5443
meisler, Beverly Ruff From page 19 is pleased to announce the opening hired designer Dana Holcombe of of her new shop
1820 Greensprings Highway 322-5878
Some of Irving’s favorite antiques include a bust of Cicero, above, in the formal dining room. The piece originated in the 1800s and was purchased at MS Rau Antiques in New Orleans. Stone countertops in the powder room, left. Natalie found the large Italian chandelier in the kitchen, below, at an auction.
Holcombe Interior Design to bring their French cottage-inspired look to life. As is the case with any remodel, the Meislers ran into many obstacles
‘I got inspired by the house’s design. What shape it should take just sort of lends itself. It’s a good size home for enter....it taining and it’sjust verygets com-better and better Come see Lulu and her friend Prissy! fortable.’ Irving Meisler
Lighting, Jewelry, Antiques, Clothing & Art Work by Renowned Southern Artist Kent Walsh along the way.
“The fireplace had this ugly•brick 2410 Canterbury Road Mountain Brook Village • 423-5443 and I wanted something to blend with the limestone mantle,” Irving said. Although he did a lot of work himself, he contracted out this particular project to a Romanian stucco company based in Atlanta. “They’re like stucco gods,” he said, laughing. The floor-to-ceiling stucco fireplace also matches the range over the oven. The Meislers also spent a lot of time working to open the house’s floor plan and find custom looks and accents that were a perfect fit for their dream home. “Irving loves antiques and I don’t “I got inspired by the house’s really have a background in them,” design,” Irving said. “What shape it Natalie said. “He is just so passionate should take just sort of lends itself. about them and finding the perfect It’s a good size home for entertaining piece to go in a spot. I never thought and it’s very comfortable.” I would enjoy it but it’s so beautiful Irving’s love for antiques adds an and I can’t imagine not having them.” eclectic appeal to the home. of Irving’s favorite antiques Come see Lulu and herSome friend Prissy! include a bust of Cicero in the formal dining room. The piece Lighting, Jewelry, Antiques, Clothing & originated in the 1800s and was purchased at M.S.
Beverly Ruff
is pleased to announce the opening of her new shop
....it just gets better and better
Art WorkAntiques by Renowned Southern Artist Kent Walsh Attic
Decorator Fabrics • Hardware • Trim
To: From: Date:
Journal photos by Lee Walls Jr.
Becky Haynie
Beverlywww.kingcottonfabrics.com Over The Mountain Journal, 205-823-9646 ph., 205-824-1246, fax August
2410 Road • Mountain Brook Village • 423-5443 Bluff Park • Canterbury Antiques
• Vintage • Industrial
Tue.-Sat. 10-4:30 5620 Cahaba Valley Road
991-6887
This is your AD prOOF from the Over The MOunTAin JOurnAl for the
f f f f
Rau Antiques in New Orleans. Another interesting piece is the large Italian chandelier in the kitchen. “It looks like a big bird’s nest,” Natalie said. “I saw it at an auction but I didn’t think he would like it, but he did. It’s funny because people either love it or they ask, ‘What on Earth is that thing hanging from your ceiling?’” Their best advice for people considering a remodel is to stick with professionals. “I knew what I was doing from experience,” Irving said. “If you don’t have the experience, you better have someone on hand who does. Something this complicated is going to have problems once you start opening things up. There’s a lot that pops up in remodel jobs.” Many unique aspects – including custom doors, textured wall papers in the bathrooms and powder rooms, and a uniquely decorated elevator – come together to form the Meisler’s dream home. The kicker? Only a year after completing the remodel, the couple has put their home back on the market. “We’re buying a house in California and hope to be spending a lot more time there,” Irving said. “We’re thinking to either downsize here…or maybe find another project.”❖
WindoW Works
Wood window restoration and repair Sash replacement, rot repair Replace broken and fogged glass Wood insulated, putty glazed, and composite vinyl replacement sashes
Call 205-542-6094
LocaLLy owned and operated
Thursday, August 13, 2015 • 21
home
OVER THE MOUNTAIN Journal
Retirement Sale
Journal photos by Lee Walls Jr.
‘We definitely wanted the stainless steel appliances. We loved the trendy grays and white color pallets we saw online and in magazines...’ Maria Dikis
kitchen aid, From page 19
approve your ad or make changes. You may fax approval or changes to 824-1246.
Please make sure all information is correct, including address and phone number!
Kathy’s Designer Kitchens, Inc. please and AL fax35209 back within 24 hours. 1831 29th Ave. S. •initial Homewood,
If we have not heard from you by 5 pm of the Friday before the press date, 205-871-9880 • Kathy Owens, CKD, President your ad will run as is. We print the paper Monday.
diamonds and JBR aRe foReveR! 619 Montgomery hwy, vestavia hills
Thank you for your prompt attention.
Designs for every room. ©2012 California Closet Company, Inc. All rights reserved. Franchises independently owned and operated.
he wanted a very modern kitchen,” Maria said. “We definitely wanted the stainless steel appliances. We loved the trendy grays and white color pallets we saw online and in magazines, but we went with AllSouth’s shaker cabinets to give it a little more of a traditional feel.” George was very hands on and handled all of the general contracting throughout the project. However, even with an involved approach, the project still took the couple the better part of ten weeks.
“Not having a kitchen for that long with a 5-year-old was the biggest challenge,” Maria said. “We did a makeshift kitchen downstairs and used the grill a lot.” Now that the kitchen is completed, Maria said she is enjoying the fresh look. “I love the streamlined cleanliness of it,” she said. “The counter top space is there now. I love my soft close cabinets and drawers, especially with a young child in the house.” The couple was also able to add a pantry to the room, which Maria said she missed desperately from their previous home. “It isn’t large, but it has pull-out
shelves and it’s awesome,” she said. “I didn’t even realize how much I missed it until I got it back.” She advises anyone who’s considering a similar remodel to be patient. “You can’t prepare for it,” she said. “I felt like we were prepared and it worked, but it wasn’t as seamless as I thought it would be. Be prepared for extra time. Be prepared to wait on people.” To: Emily Now that the family has completed From: Over The Mountain Journal, 205-823-9646 ph., the redo, they have another big proj205-824-1246, fax ect on the horizon: kindergarten. Date: August “It’s an exciting time for us right now,” Maria said. “That’s our big This is your ad proof from the over the mountain Journal for the focus now that the kitchen is finaugust 13, 2015 issue. Please contact your sales representative as soon as possible to ished.” ❖
Proud to be your local, family-owned business with over 30 years expertise in custom storage solutions. Call us today for a complimentary in-home design consultation.
for more information please Call mike wedgworth: 205.365.4344
To: From: Date:
Maury Over The Mountain Journal August 2015
BIRMINGHAM 709 Third Ave. N. 800.448.1915 CaliforniaClosets.com
This is your AD prOOF for Over The MOunTAin JOurnAl for the August 13, 2015 issue. please approve, initial and fax to 824-1246 or contact
food
22 • Thursday, August 13, 2015
Holy Grounds
Supporting Those With Special Needs: Taziki’s Founder Gets National Award
The Abbey in Avondale Combines Coffee, Church By Donna Cornelius
Journal photos bh Lee Walls Jr.
A
t first glance, The Abbey may seem like just a cool community coffee bar. You may see a young professional type of fellow sitting at a table with a mug beside his laptop, or women gathered for conversation and chicken salad sandwiches. But if you drop into the Avondale establishment late on a Sunday afternoon, you’ll notice a different crowd. That’s when coffee drinkers gather to form a church congregation. The Abbey, which opened Feb. 14, has a dual personality because it’s a nonprofit project of the Episcopal Diocese of Alabama. The Rev. Katie Rengers, associate rector for young adults at St. Luke’s Episcopal Church in Mountain Brook, said the coffee shop is the result of the diocese’s desire to establish a new Episcopal church in Avondale. “We got the idea that a traditional church model wasn’t going to work there,” she said. “You have lots of young adults there who are unchurched or de-churched. This was a way to reach younger people.” Rengers also is the vicar of The Abbey, leading services there on Sundays at 4 p.m. “Sunday mornings and Wednesday nights aren’t sacred times for everyone anymore,” she said. “The coffee shop is open every day. You can just get a coffee or you can engage. You can just drop in.” Besides the Sunday service, The Abbey offers space for other meetings. “We have a really comfortable small group room that can be reserved,” Rengers said. “It can be used for Bible studies or for clergy to meet with parishioners.” While Rengers takes care of the church side of The Abbey, manager Carrie Black oversees the shop’s day-to-day operations. The South Carolina native originally came to Birmingham to attend Samford University. “I got married, and we decided to settle here,” she said. “I joined Cathedral Church of the Advent and heard about the plans for this place. It opened earlier this year on Valentine’s Day, which was fun.” Black said she, assistant manager Janie Logan and baker Leslie Teardo enjoy coming up with menu items. The Abbey serves sandwiches, soups and baked goods as well as coffee and other
drinks. “Janie has great recipes,” Black said. “She does the soup selections and makes a great tomato pie.” The Abbey makes an effort to buy products from the Birmingham area and other places in Alabama, Black said. The coffee shop serves Red Bike Coffee that’s made in Irondale, Piper & Leaf Artisan Tea from Huntsville, and bagels and bread from Crestline Bagel Co. “Our Craisins scones sell really, really well,”
Top: Sandwiches made with bread from Crestline Bagels are always on the menu at The Abbey. Middle: Manager Carrie Black and other staff members welcome customers who just want coffee and others who stop in for informal church services. Bottom left: The Abbey puts a loving touch on this hot drink. Bottom right: The coffee shop offers comfortable spots for reading or conversation.
See holy grounds, facing page
piggly wiggly www.pigbham.com ®
COUPON $5 OFF piggly wiggly®
on your total purchase of $30.00 or more. Coupon valid thru 9/7/2015
This coupon good only at these fine piggly wiggly stores. •Homewood •Bluff Park •River Run • Clairmont
OVER THE MOUNTAIN Journal
Want to take your grilling to a new level? Certified Angus Beef® brand is the answer! Flavorful, mouth watering, top quality Certified Angus Beef® Piggly Wiggly is proud to bring you Certified Angus Beef®... Come taste the difference!
Keith Richards, (below) founder and chief development officer of Taziki’s Mediterranean Café, recently received a top honor at the National Association of People Supporting Employment First National Awards Luncheon in Philadelphia. The APSE’s Large Employer Award is given to employers of 250 or more people. These companies must demonstrate an outstanding commitment to hiring and fully integrating individuals with disabilities into their workforces. APSE officials said Taziki’s was more than deserving of the organization’s Large Culinary Employer Award. Community “Mr. Richards has not only News and made a tremendous commitment Events but also served as an advocate for the Employment First philosophy, encouraging other employers across the country to do as he has done and give individuals with disabilities opportunities to pursue real jobs at competitive wages,” said Peter Burnes, APSE national membership and chapter relations manager. The APSE believes that employment in the general workforce is the first and preferred outcome in providing publicly funded services for all working age citizens with disabilities. “We hire special needs students in many of our restaurants and work with organizations such as The Arc of Shelby County and Down Syndrome Alabama as well as support Special Olympics chapters around the country,” Richards said. “Parents of the special needs students that are employed by Taziki’s can find personal time while their children work in the restaurant. It is joy to have them as our employees.” Richards and Taziki’s also were recognized for their creation of the Herbs Offering Personal Enrichment program, which grows fresh herbs used in Taziki’s stores across the country. Among herbs grown by HOPE are basil, parsley, rosemary, cilantro and oregano. “HOPE is a program for special needs children in Alabama,” Richards said. “We buy from the HOPE garden as our vendor, and the children are paid to come out and tend to the land.” Taziki’s Mediterranean Café is headquartered in Birmingham and has 46 locations in 13 states.
Journal photo bh Lee Walls Jr.
From previous page
Birmingham area foodies can eat out on the cheap Aug. 14-23. During Birmingham Restaurant Week, diners can visit participating restaurants to get special two- or three-course prixfixed lunch and dinner menus. Prices are $5, $10, $20 and $30. Some establishments will offer brunches, beer and wine flights and other drink specials. BRW has a new logo and theme for its sixth edition: For the Love of Local. Among the more than 75 restaurants that have signed up for the event are Bottega Café and Dining Room, Chez Fonfon, Davenport’s, Dreamland BBQ, Fish Market, Highlands Bar & Grill, Iron City Grill, Little Donkey, Little Savannah, Nabeel’s, On Tap, Post Office Pies (above), Primeaux, Rojo, Satterfield’s, Silvertron Café, Slice, Ted’s, The Pantry, The Summit Club, The Wine Loft, Urban Standard and Vino. A special BRW event is Wine-oLogy, set for 5:30-7:30 p.m. Aug. 19 at The Wine Loft, 2200 1st Ave. N., Birmingham. Guests can sample flights of four wines from Rush Wine and have complimentary appetizers. Featured wines are Rush Sparkling, Santa Alicia Reserve Sauvignon Blanc, Andeluna Malbec “3200” and El Burro Garnacha. Individual tickets are $20 in advance and $25 at the door. Couples’ tickets are $40 in advance and $50 at the door. Dinner will be available after the tasting. Call The Wine Loft at 323-8228 for more information. BRW events have raised nearly $25,000 for Birmingham nonprofits and tourist destinations. Proceeds from this year’s event will benefit the Urban Food Project, which works to promote the access, availability and affordability of healthy foods to Birmingham-area residents through grocery and food vendors. During last year’s Birmingham Restaurant Week, more than 13,000 BRW menus were sold, and participating restaurants reported more than $2 million in gross receipt sales during the 10-day event. Restaurant Week is organized by REV, an economic development organization that stimulates business growth and tries to improve the quality of life in Birmingham’s City Center and its Neighborhood Commercial Centers. For more information, visit www. bhamrestaurantweek.com.
Dress Up, Eat Up: Forks & Corks Gala Is Black-Tie Event
The Forks & Corks Gala, a food and wine-centered fundraiser, is back for its second year. The Hoover Area Chamber of Commerce is hosting the black-tie event at 6 p.m. Sept. 12 at the Aveda Institute, 3200 Galleria Circle.
she said. “So do our biscuits with bacon jam. Our breakfast sandwich has bacon jam, cheddar cheese and scrambled eggs. We often run out of those.” Popular lunch choices are sandwiches and simple crockpot soups, Black said. “We make our BLTs with bacon jam,” she said. “We also have traditional Southern sandwiches like pimiento cheese and chicken salad from my own recipe. We’ve tried roasted jalapeno gazpacho, which is Janie’s recipe, cream of asparagus soup and loaded baked potato soup. We all have input about the menu.” The Abbey is dog-friendly, Black said, so house-made dog treats usually are available. Logan said she had been working at another coffee shop when she joined the staff at The Abbey. “I had a lunch with my high school Latin teacher, who is a member at St. Luke’s, and she told me about this place,” said Logan, who grew up in Mountain Brook. “I love to cook. I’ve come up with most of the soup recipes and adapted some. I make roasted garlic aioli to make sandwiches more interesting. I’ve made pesto.” Logan said she lives just a few blocks away from The Abbey. “I bought a bike and can ride to Railroad Park and to friends’ houses,” she said. Having a connection to the Avondale community is important to everyone involved with The Abbey, Black said. “We know most of the other people at other places here – the guys from 41st Street Pub, from Rowe’s, Saw’s and Post Office Pies,” she said. “Saturn is another coffee place here, and we visit and see each other’s goods. Knowing most of the other people in management is such a fun part of this neighborhood.” The Abbey often supports charitable organizations and events by donating food, she said. It supports its community in other ways, too. “Every month, we have a new art display and spotlight a local artist,” Black said. Restaurants and businesses from Hoover and the Birmingham metro area will participate in the gala, which includes entertainment and live and silent auctions. Jeh Jeh Pruitt of Fox 6 will emcee the event. Hoover Police Chief Nick Derzis will be the auctioneer. Alanna Rose from Iron City Photography will be on hand to snap photos at the party. Forks & Corks raises money for the Hoover Area Chamber of Commerce Foundation. The foundation will present scholarships to Hoover students at the chamber’s May 2016 luncheon. Tickets to the gala are $100. For more information, visit www. hooverchamber.org or call Verona Petite at 988-5672.
Joint Venture: Vino, Gallery 1930 Will Add Cocktail and Oyster Bar Vino restaurant and its neighbor,
The artwork is for sale, as are pottery pieces and a selection of well-loved books. “We have Prodigal Pottery made at King’s Home as therapy for abused and battered women who are escaping that lifestyle,” Black said. “We sell out – we may expand our pottery line.” The Abbey is housed in a building owned by Beloved Community Church at 131A 41st St. S. “It wasn’t as expensive to renovate this building as it would have been for several other locations,” Black said. “We have foot traffic and are able to access the neighborhood.” Rengers said that, while the longterm goal is for The Abbey to become financially self-supporting, the diocese is committed to supporting it. “The vision is evolving all the time,” she said. “At first, we didn’t imagine having worship here at all but more of religious programming. But young people were coming in and asking, ‘When do we start?’ We want to get across the point that it’s a religious place but open to everybody. “It’s a coffee shop, but you kind of know you’re in a holy place,” she said The Abbey is open 7 a.m.-7 p.m. Monday-Thursday, 7 a.m.-8 p.m. on Fridays and Saturdays and 10 a.m.-6 p.m. on Sundays. For more information, visit www. theabbeybham.com or follow The Abbey on Facebook.
About Avondale
If you haven’t been to Avondale recently, you’re in for a tasty treat or two. The revitalized downtown Birmingham neighborhood is home to some of the city’s trendiest places for food and drink. Just stroll down 41st Street, the main artery through Avondale, and explore the options. Some neighborhood restaurants have earned not just local but national attention. Saw’s Soul Kitchen’s signature dish – Pork and Greens with pulled pork, cheese grits, greens and onion rings – made GQ Magazine’s 2014 list of The 50 Best Things to Eat Right Now. That’s not the only star on the restaurant’s menu, of course. Specials might include braised pork cheeks or buttermilk pie. Gallery 1930 Art Gallery, are partnering to create a new art lounge featuring a cocktail and oyster bar. Both businesses are in Mountain Brook’s English Village. Gallery Bar will be a 1,000-squarefoot addition that will be an art gallery during the day and then become a bar later in the afternoon. Construction on the bar began in April. Plans are to open near the end of this month. According to Vino’s Facebook page, the menu will include raw and grilled oysters, a fried oyster salad and a classic shrimp cocktail plus a full-service bar. Birmingham interior designer Richard Tubb of Richard Tubb Interiors and Cherri Pitts of Studio C Architecture & Interiors created the design concept. The Gallery Bar will be open 4-10:30 p.m. Mondays through Thursdays and 4-11:30 p.m. on Fridays and Saturdays. The bar is at 1930 Cahaba Road. ❖
Hickory-fired pizza is the headliner at Post Office Pies, but don’t skip the restaurant’s seasonal salads. Recent summertime offerings included a watermelon and radish salad and another made with fresh roasted corn. The restaurant made food and travel website
Journal photo bh Lee Walls Jr.
holy grounds,
Home Cooking: Restaurant Week Shows Some ‘Local Love’
Thursday, August 13, 2015 • 23
food
OVER THE MOUNTAIN Journal
Saturn, a music venue, has a coffee shop, too, Satellite, which serves eats from Birmingham’s Baking Bandits and Stumptown Coffee. The taproom at Avondale Brewing Co. has 16 taps with craft beers. Its flagship brews include the Spring Street
Saw’s Soul Kitchen’s signature dish – Pork and Greens with pulled pork, cheese grits, greens and onion rings – has garnered national attention.
Thrillist’s list of the Top 33 Best Pizza Shops in America, and Chef John Hall has been written about in Grub Street, a New York Magazine food and restaurant blog. Melt started out as a food truck venture and opened a brick-and-mortar restaurant in Avondale in a former garage. Owners Paget Pizitz and Harriet Reis recently announced plans to open another Avondale eatery, Fancy’s on Fifth, later this year. For a cool retro vibe, walk behind neighborhood bar Parkside Café to visit Hotbox, a movable kitchen housed in an Airstream trailer. Rowe’s Service Station is open for breakfast, lunch and dinner with hip treats like truffle fries, kale salad and chicken and waffles. Birmingham’s only shuffleboard tables are at 41st Street Pub & Aircraft Sales. You’re welcome to bring in your own food to eat as you sip the pub’s top shelf cocktails, gluten-free beer options or the house favorite, Moscow Mules.
Saison and Vanillaphant Porter Ale with vanilla, and there are seasonal choices as well. Right next to the brewery is a new food stand called Wasabi Juan’s, which serves sushi burritos – yes, you read that right – on soy wraps with housemade salsa. If you’re in Avondale to eat or drink, set aside time to wander through Avondale Park. When Avondale was annexed into Birmingham in 1910, the 40-acre green space became the city’s largest park. It had a zoo with a celebrity named Miss Fancy, a former circus elephant. The park’s amphitheater was the site for a pageant celebrating Birmingham’s 50th anniversary in 1921. Ten years later, The Villa, a hillside pavilion at the back of the park, was built and later hosted free concerts by the Birmingham Civic Symphonic Orchestra. The park got an almost $3 million renovation in 2011. It now hosts special art, music and movie events. ❖
Southern Gourmet at it's Best LOcATED AT THE TOP OF SHADES MOuNTAIN ON HWy 31, NEXT TO VESTAVIA HILLS cITy HALL, BISTrO V OFFErS ONE OF THE FINEST cuLINAry EXPErIENcES IN BIrMINgHAM!
Open Monday-Saturday 11am-2pm & 5pm-9pm 521 Montgomery Hwy, Vestavia Hills, AL 35216 • (205) 823-1505
Finding Home
24 • Thursday, August 13, 2015
schools
By Kaitlin Candelaria And Emily Williams Mohamad Karassi is a typical teenager. A junior at Hoover High School, he enjoys his newly acquired driver’s license and working at his part-time job. But until recently, his life was anything but typical for a suburban teen. Karassi immigrated from Syria in 2013. His parents and sisters moved to the United States first, leaving Karassi and his brother in Syria with their grandfather because the boys had trouble getting visas. “Things were starting to get really bad in Syria,” Karassi said. “One day while walking in the park, the Shabihas starting chasing my brother and shooting at him.” Feeling lucky to have escaped the brutal militia attack with his life, Karassi’s brother and Karassi fled to Egypt to live with their aunt. They were granted visas and joined their parents in the U.S. about six months later. Karassi is just one of the growing international student population in Over the Mountain schools. Although integrating these students
Searching for More
Karassi and his family aren’t the only ones who appreciate the opportunities for education that the Over the Mountain community has to offer. Paul Rukwaro relocated his family to Homewood in 2003 from Kenya after being granted a diversity visa through the U.S. Department of State. “I met a pastor from Homewood who had come to Nairobi for a mission trip who agreed to host us,” Rukwaro said. “We were looking for a better life for us and our children.” Julian and Michele Maha Paul and his wife, Jane, are parfrom Malaysia ents to five children – all of whom appreciate call or have called Homewood City the extended Schools home. Their second oldest, diversity their children encoun- Alex, graduated in May and is getting ready to attend Auburn, where ter at Vestavia schools. he plans to major in mechanical engineering, while their middle child, Faith, is a rising sophomore at Homewood High School. “People don’t realize that America truly is the land of opportunity,” Paul said. In Kenya, he said, people are locked into whatever career path they pursue in school and there is no opportunity for change, regardless of whether they enjoy their jobs. Once a government worker, he said he realized his passion was nursing and immediately set to work becoming a registered nurse once he immigrated to the United States. English didn’t present as big of a barrier for the Rukwaro family, since it is taught in Kenyan schools. However, the Southern accents took a bit of adjustment. Some of the food confused them, as well. “I remember my first day at Shades Cahaba,” Alex said. “We had corn dogs and I had no idea what it was.” Although the family speaks fluent English, at home they still often From left: Dennis, Faith, their mother Jane, Alex and speak the “mother tongue” of their village in Mohamad Karassi immigrattheir father Paul immigrated to Homewood from Kenya Kenya. They also stay connected to the Kenyan ed from Syria in 2013. in the early 2000s. community through the local Kenyan culture and religion. Paul said there are good and bad hard making new friends.” working on obtaining the certifications he needs things about both the American and Kenyan But that changed as he became fluent in to open a practice. English, and Karassi began to enjoy his new life cultures. Despite coming from an educated home, “When we go back to visit and I tell somein Hoover. Karassi was forced to repeat the eighth grade one in a restaurant, ‘Thank you,’ they look at me “My favorite thing about Hoover is the when he couldn’t produce documents proving very strange,” Paul said. “I tell my kids to take schools,” he said. “In Syria, if you raise your his level of schooling in Syria. He also had difthe good and bad from both cultures. That’s the hand and say you need help, the teacher would ficulty with the language. great thing – they have freedom of choice.” get angry with you. Here, people really care “It’s so frustrating when someone’s talking Visits back to their home country also freabout school.” to you and you can’t speak back,” he said. “It’s quently remind the children of how lucky they are to attend school in Homewood. “The kids in Kenya are walking to school at three and four years old,” Alex said. “They don’t have shoes and sometimes they’re walking Advice From a Guidance Counselor five to six miles every morning. We take a lot According to members of the Vestavia Hills High School Guidance Department, the struggles of a for granted here.” new student vary based on their background in schooling and where they are moving from. Problems Despite having to adjust to the many cultural vary based on the size of the student’s previous school and how far they have traveled, but some differences, the family said they fell in love with issues cross borders and affect all students, whether they are moving from Kenya or Kentucky. the area early on. Number 1: Get Involved “It wasn’t easy to start with,” Jane said. “We have many activities, such as athletics, music, arts, dance and academic groups (i.e. math and “When you move here, you don’t know the landebate teams),” 10th-grade counselor Daria Howard said. guage or how to maneuver the city. But after a Clubs also are a good way for students to make friends who share similar interests. And it goes few months, you make friends. The people here beyond the schoolyard. VHHS counselors said they often encourage families to get involved in the in Homewood are very nice.” Journal photo by Lee Walls Jr.
International Families Find Their Place in OTM Schools and Communities
‘I met a pastor from Homewood who had come to Nairobi for a mission trip who agreed to host us. We were looking for a better life for us and our children.’
Journal photos by Kaitlin Candelaria
Paul Rukwaro
from different cultures into school life can be a challenge, area school officials agree that diversity among the student population can also be a positive influence in the classroom. “Teachers really encourage our students to share about their lives – their culture, how and why they came to Alabama and more – because they see it as a learning opportunity for everyone,” Melissa Parker, ESL teacher at Hoover High School, said. “We talk a lot about wanting to develop globally minded students. What could be a greater way of achieving that than recognizing ‘the world’ that you have right here in our classrooms?” One of the biggest challenges school officials must meet is teaching students who are not fluent in English. Multi-lingual households have become commonplace in the Over the Mountain area, with officials at Homewood City Schools estimating that their students speak almost 30 languages in their homes and Hoover estimating their students speak more than 50. Dr. Barbara Mayer, director of Instructional Support Services for Hoover City Schools, said any student who registers at a school in Alabama must complete a survey to determine what language the student speaks at home. “If any question reflects a language other than English, the student must be evaluated for English proficiency to determine if he or she needs support,” Mayer said. “If the student needs support, a team composed of the parent, teacher, an English Learner teacher and the principal will meet to determine what supports are needed.” Some examples of supports the school provide include the use of visuals and hands-on activities, one-on-one instruction time with an English Learner teacher and collaboration with the student’s classroom teacher. Each year, the students are tested to determine their mastery of the language. These types of programs were essential as Karassi struggled to learn English to fit into his new home. Karassi said his father chose to settle the family in Hoover because his brother lived in the area. “He was able to help my dad do things like get a place to live,” Karassi said. Now, his father, who worked as a dentist in Syria, is
OVER THE MOUNTAIN Journal
New Kid in Town?
community through service organizations, church groups, etc. Number 2: Seek Help “Always get help if you are having a problem with a class,” Howard said. Howard added that resources such as peer tutoring are always available to students and teachers are always glad to help. Number 3: Ask Questions “Don’t feel like you can’t (ask questions),” Howard said. “There are no wrong questions.” She said chances are that, if you have a question to ask, there is another student in the room wondering about the same thing. Number 4: Remember That You Aren’t Alone VHHS counselors said there are many new students each year who are in the same general state of transition. Students should seek out “new student groups” where they can discuss and share their experiences and difficulties navigating their new school. ❖
Embracing Both Cultures
Diversity is one of the many reasons the Maha family chose to make their home in the Over the Mountain community. Julian and Michele Maha are both doctors in the Birmingham area. The couple, both from Malaysia, speak fluent English along with their children, Juda and Abram, who attend Vestavia Hills Elementary West. Though the children did not encounter a language barrier, the Mahas have experienced linguistic challenges of their own with
MBHS Completes Phase One of Transformation Project
Phase one was funded through the fundraising efforts of the Leadership students. Much of the money was raised through an online auction that featured items such as reserved seats at graduation and prime parking spots for juniors and seniors. Typically, sophomores aren’t allowed to park on campus, but the school found a few spare spots to auction off. Phase two will feature an update to the library, which currently offers seating for 60 of the 900 MBHS students. Phase three will feature major updates to the cafeteria, which will provide more seating and make it suitable to use for a variety of school events. The school will begin fundraising
2017, we are hoping to create collaborative learning spaces for the students.” The new furniture in the mall features cafe tables where students can eat, large ottomans surrounded by chairs where groups of students can interact, and two long tables where students can plug in to charging stations and work. Hood said the charging stations were an essential element because, starting this year, the entire student body will be issued Chromebooks as a part of the school’s new technology bundle. In addition, the students can look forward to a grab-and-go lunch cart in the mall where they can quickly purchase food between classes.
for phase two in the fall. Leadership students will host another online auction focused on student activities, a 3K run during homecoming week and a “dinner at your door” food delivery night. The school will also hold a “give day” campaign. ” ❖
diamonds and JBR aRe foReveR! 619 Montgomery hwy, vestavia hills
Photo special to the Journal
This school year, Mountain Brook High School students will be greeted with new furniture in the mall area courtesy of MBHS Leadership and the Transformation 2017 capital campaign. “We wanted to focus on common spaces that all of the students touch,” Principal Amanda Hood said, “Such as the mall, the library and the cafeteria.” Hood said that, while the Mountain Brook High School staff is supporting the project, the bulk of the organization and work is done by MBHS Leadership students. Students worked with professional architects to come up with their design and concept for the mall update. “We used to think that the only learning that occurred in school was in the classroom, but we’ve found that learning occurs all around the school,” Hood said. “So, through Transformation
From left: MBHS SGA members Bailey Womack, Sara Carr, Charlotte McRae, James Franklin, Jack Farmer, Creagh Goings, Maggie Baker, Carlton Randleman, Chase Robinett and Yates Jackson take a break from registration to enjoy the new furniture in the mall.
Journal photo by Emily Williams
Abram, who has a non-verbal form of autism. Michele said the school’s dedication to diversity is apparent in more ways than just with international students. Abram’s school works closely with Michele and her husband to make sure Abram’s needs are being met while also challenging him academically. “The one thing I’ve always appreciated about the school is the fact that I can really talk to Principal (Kim) Hauser, to the vice principal and to his teacher Kem Bennett,” Michele said. “I am able to really try to integrate what he learns in school to what he learns at home.” Michele said that she experiences the same kind of camaraderie with the community as a whole. In her neighborhood, she said she personally knows most of her neighbors, and they go out of their way to help her or her children. For example, because of his autism, Abram tends to wander. Michele said that, because they have a close relationship with the neighborhood, residents recognize him and know how to react when they see him wandering. She and her husband also are founders of the nonprofit KultureCity and have seen a lot of support for the organization within the Vestavia area. “It’s great to be in a culture where people truly care about each other and the care goes beyond the community,” she said. Because of the neighborly culture she sees, Michele said she has fallen in love with the South and the Vestavia Hills community. Though her children are growing up in a multi-lingual family, she said she appreciates the extended diversity her children encounter in Vestavia. In fact, teachers at VHEW said they encourage students to be bilingual. “Our classroom teachers do a tremendous job of cultivating a welcoming environment,” Principal Kim Hauser said. “Our ELL teacher works closely with students to promote English acquisition while also encouraging the family to continue using their language of origin.” The schools also employ programs similar to that of Hoover City Schools to help multilingual families. Translators are on hand to help parents with things such as enrollment and registration. “As someone who came from a different country with a different background and culture, it’s really great to be able to say that we are part of a community where there are Caucasians, African Americans, Indians, Chinese and Hispanic people,” Michele said. “And it goes beyond racial diversity, but in terms of professions and mentality.” Michele said that she appreciates the different cultural festivals and diverse celebrations that her children encounter in their school environment. “I love the fact that, for instance, with Abram and Juda, they will grow up seeing these different cultures,” she said. “They experience different cultural festivals and celebrate different holidays. That is what will help them be more open.” ❖
Thursday, August 13, 2015 • 25
schools
OVER THE MOUNTAIN Journal
From left: Liz Jones, Marc Straus, Taylor Hinch, Chandler Pulliam, Dayna Rollins, Max Klapow and Davis Tyler-Dudley.
ISS Mock Trial Team Places Third in National Competition A team of seven Indian Springs School students won third place at the 2015 YMCA National Judicial Competition in Chicago July 31. Competing against 27 teams from 14 states, teammates Taylor Hinch, Liz Jones, Max Klapow, Chandler Pulliam, Dayna Rollins, Marc Straus and Davis Tyler-Dudley prepared arguments for both the prosecution and defense in a criminal case involving the hazing and death of a college fraternity pledge. Attorneys, judges and law students from across Chicago judged five mock trials over the course of two days at the Chicago Bar Association Building. “Our students did a fantastic job,” ISS volunteer coach Carole Mazer said. “Our kids focus on what it takes to be persuasive, professional and likeable in their comments and body language, and I believe that this gives them an edge in any arena.” The team advanced to the YMCA NJC after finishing second in November at the 2014 Alabama YMCA Youth and Government Judicial Conference, which requires each team to prepare only one
side of a case. In the state of Alabama, the top three teams are invited to compete in the national competition. “One of the big things we’ve learned as a team is that success in mock trial doesn’t necessarily come down to how much law you’ve been taught,” Klapow said. “The defining part is how much you work for it, how much you want it and how well you think on your feet. While we meet only three hours a week, we work productively. It comes down to hard work and dedication.” During their downtime at the NJC, Klapow said that the ISS teammates ate their way through Chicago, tasting classic city foods such as Chicago deep-dish pizza. The team also heard a Chicago Symphony Orchestra rehearsal at Millennial Park, visited Navy Pier and took a Chicago Sightseeing Cruise. “We are absolutely thrilled that our students’ dedication and hard work resulted in this fantastic showing at the YMCA National Judicial Competition,” ISS Director Gareth Vaughan said. “They take part in our Mock Trial Club – practicing on their own time and adding to their busy schedules – because they love it. To me it is more evidence that when we help students find and follow their passions, they are able to rise to their full potential.” ❖
• Specialized Instruction for Dyslexia, ADD, Dysgraphia, To: Maury From: Over The Mountain Journal and other Learning Disabilities. Date: August 2015
This is your AD prOOF for Over The MOun August 13, 2015 issue. please approve, initial and your sales representative as soon as possib
• Small Class Sizes with an 8:1 Student Ratio. please initial and fax to 824-1246
• 2nd Grade throughbefore the press date, your ad mu 12th Grade Thank you for your promp
if we have not heard from you by 5 p
Dr. Laura Fiveash Executive Director 205-423-8660
26 • Thursday, August 13, 2015
By Ian Thompson
Patrick Martin has achieved a great deal in his relatively young golf career, but he had yet to win an Alabama Golf Association State Championship. He rectified that by claiming the 15th State Match Play Championship at Montgomery Country Club on August 8 in a well-contested match with Lee Hodges. Martin will be an incoming freshman at Vanderbilt and this marked his last tournament of the summer before heading off to start his college career. The morning of the eighth saw him see off former Vanderbilt golfer Richard Douglas of Trussville in the semifinal, Patrick Martin going two extra holes to the 20th hole, before edging Douglas. In the other semifinal current UAB golfer Hodges of Elkmont took down Jake DeZoort, 17, of Tuscaloosa, who will be a freshman on the University of Alabama golf team in the fall of 2016, by a score of 2 up. In the final, after a brief break for lunch, Martin was always ahead and staked himself to a 3 up lead through 13 holes over Hodges. The match and championship looked to be his in a stroll, but Hodges had other ideas rolling in birdie putts on Nos. 14 and 17 to take the match to the final hole. Both players hit the 18th green in regulation, but Martin was close to 50 feet above the hole, while Hodges had around 10 feet left for birdie. Martin’s putt gathered pace and ended up six feet below the cup. Hodges could not hole his putt to force extra holes and Martin made his uphill come-backer to claim the title. “Those were two very good matches,” Martin, who graduated from Spain Park High School in May, said. “I had to play well in both. Lots of good shots, from all players, were on display.” Martin, who finished second in the State Amateur earlier this summer to two-time champion Will Cannon, had to dig deep to close out the win. “I’ve learned a lot this summer and in this championship about staying in the moment with every shot. I’ve been wanting to win a golf tournament for a while and it was my week to do it.” He thanked his swing instructor, Wayne Flint, and his Dad, Greg Martin, for helping him work on his game. The championship was a true test of endurance as Martin had to survive six matches over three days to lift the trophy. ❖
Hannah’s Home Young Patriot Star Had Busy Summer
By Lee Davis
After leading Homewood to the state Class 6A basketball championship and being named Over the Mountain Player of the Year as a freshman, Hannah Barber could have been forgiven for wanting to spend a long, lazy summer hanging around swimming pools and beaches. But anyone who thinks Barber actually did that doesn’t know her very well. Instead, the rising sophomore spent most of July playing for the Alabama Heat Elite in high-profile AAU Tournaments in Orlando, Nashville, New Orleans and Augusta, Georgia. Barber wouldn’t have had it any other way. “It was great,” she said during some rare down time last week. “There were a lot of college coaches there and plenty of terrific players from everywhere. It was an experience to see the talent from other parts of the South and the country, not just Alabama.” Barber said the best benefit of the competition was developing more
mental toughness. “Our schedule was very intense,” she explained. “At one point we played 10 games in seven days. “It helped us push through fatigue and play our best even when we were tired.” The presence of college coaches at the tournaments only added to the excitement, Barber said. “Being watched in the stands isn’t anything to get rattled about,” she said. “If anything, it should add an extra burst and provide more motivation. But the main reason any of us were there was simply to become better players.” To be so young, Barber and her skills at guard are already familiar to many coaches at the next level. She already has offers from the University of Alabama, the University of Southern Mississippi, Samford University and Jacksonville State. At least 10 other major schools from across the nation have expressed interest. Although she won’t even graduate from high school until 2018, Barber is taking the commotion in stride. “Sure, I’m going to enjoy the
OVER THE MOUNTAIN Journal
day,” she said. “Now that is the goal recruiting process. It’s flattering to be every year. If we don’t win the state, attracting some attention,” she said. it doesn’t mean our season was unsuc“But once the high school season cessful. But it does mean we didn’t starts, Homewood is going to be the reach our goal.” only team I’m thinking about.” As impressive as Barber was in That’s a good thing. Barber under2014-15, she hopes her game will be stands that as defending state champions, the Lady Patriots will have a large even better in the new year. “I’ve worked on getting my jump target on their backs in 2015-16. shot off – particularly from being the “At the beginning of last year, three-point circle – more quickly,” she nobody expected much because we said. “That will help when a taller girl were such a young team,” Barber said. is guarding me. Also, I “But we got a taste of want to improve my midbeing the target when we range pull up shot. It’s reached the number one kind of a lost art, since ranking in the polls. If we everybody wants to shoot keep our focus on what the three pointer, but I we can control and not want to get better at it.” worry about the rest of it, When not on the baswe’ll be fine.” ketball court, Barber often And make no mistake, finds her way into the earning another blue troweight room. phy will be Homewood’s “I’ve been hitting the goal for next winter. Hannah Barber weights pretty hard to “Winning the state gain strength and explosiveness,” she last year was a humbling experience said. in some ways,” she said. “It proved Barber admitted that she did get a what we were capable of doing. Now little beach time in July. “We stayed in we want to do it again and again and a good hotel in Orlando, so that was again.” nice,” she said. “But mainly the trip Barber sounded similar to a wellknown football coach when describing was all about basketball.” And that was fine with Hannah her philosophy. Barber. As she would be the first to say, “There was a process to winning one state championship isn’t enough. ❖ the state title: work to get better every
Thunderbolts Win National Tournament The Birmingham Thunderbolts 98 traveled to Denver, Colorado and won the 2015 Colorado Sparkler 16U division, going 11-0 for the tournament. The Sparkler is a nationwide softball tournament in its 13th year, that hosted over 244 teams from all 50 states and 2 countries, from June 26-July 5. The team consists of three players from Oak Mountain and one from Vestavia. Along with having other players from Alabama (Pinson, Anniston, Tuscaloosa, Mobile, Opelika and Livingston), it also consists of players from Tennessee, Georgia and Mississippi. Team members are front row, from left: Cailin Hannon, Lindsey Williams, Ashlee Sanders, Carmyn Greenwood, Whitney Hinton andHarley Stokes; top row, from left: Destinee Cole, Jessica Perley, Karley Williams, Abbey Latham, McKenna Gillespie and Cassady Greenwood.
Photo special to the Journal
Martin Wins State Match Play Title
SPORTS
Hoover’s Tomko takes title in BGA Junior Championship Andrew Tomko of Hoover won the overall title in the Birmingham Golf Association Junior Championship, played Aug. 4-5 at Pine Tree Country Club. Tomko, a senior at Spain Park High School, won the Elbert S. Jemison Trophy, open to players ages 14-17, by six shots after rounds of 73-71—144. He also won the 16-17 age group, with his brother, Austin Tomko, second on 150 and Mitch Hungerpiller third on 151. Reynolds Lambert shot 70-80—150 to win the 14-15 age group, doing so in a playoff with Karlee Alllen (7674). Ford Clegg was third, one shot back. Nick Dunlap produced the round of the championship, shooting a second round 66. Added to his opening 70, he finished eight-under-par 136 in the 12-13 age group. Robert Davidson (73-73—146) was second and Thomas Gaede (79-76—155) third. Seth Rogers won a very close contest in the 10-11 age group, shooting nines of 39-36—75 to beat William
Beeker (38-38—76) and Coe Murdock (37-39—76) by a shot. Jessica Shaw shot nines of 39-41—80 to win the girls, 10-17, nine-hole division, with Mary Katherine Horton (45-42—87) second and Emily Baker (4448—92) third.
Pugh Qualifies for Sub-Regional
Overall BGA Junior Championship winner Andrew Tomko with Birmingham Golf Association Executive Director Ian Thompson.
Mountain Brook Elementary rising first-grader Ryan Pugh placed in the top 3 at the Regional Drive, Chip & Putt tournament in Tallahassee, Florida recently. This qualifies him to play in the Sub-Regional contest at the World Golf Hall of Fame in St. Augustine on Aug. 29. He competed in the 7-9 year old category of 25 kids. ❖
Ryan Pugh
OVER THE MOUNTAIN Journal
Chasing a Dream
Thursday, August 13, 2015 • 27
SPORTS
Cutting Edge Vision Training Improves Overall Performance
Homewood’s Browning Makes It to the SEC By Tyler Waldrep Homewood alum Brian Browning confronts a familiar sight. He stands atop the mound in the annual SEC baseball tournament. In the stands his family is cheering for him. There might not be many places where Browning spends more time in his mind, but everyone has to wake up to reality eventually. “I wanted to be in the SEC as a freshman,” Browning said. “I think about it all the time.” When he graduated, Browning instead found himself committed to play junior college ball at Northwest Florida State College. His dream had to be put on hold, but he didn’t have to give it up. Two years have passed and Browning still hasn’t found himself on the right side of the dugout at the SEC baseball tournament, but that doesn’t mean he hasn’t accomplished anything. Earlier this summer he helped his team win the Junior College World Series. Despite his success, Browning said playing junior college ball wasn’t easy. He said a lot of guys spend only one year with the school. He said having a group of guys who
would buy in was important. “It’s a grind because sometimes you get more fans at high school games,” Browning said. “You’ve got to create your own energy.” That grind ended up paying off. The next time Browning walks out to pitch a game, he will be doing so as an Ole Miss Rebel. “I’ve worked really hard to get where I’m at,” he said. “I just can’t wait to get going.” Browning took the scenic route to get to the SEC, but he said he thinks the experiences he’s had the past two years have been good for him. He said he has grown up a lot. “Nobody dreams to play in junior college,” Browning said. “I’ve thrown 60-plus innings two years in a row. So, like I said, I’ve got the experience and I know I’m ready for the next level.” He said he ultimately would like to play professional ball after college. In the meantime, Browning seems more than content to spend the next year or two in Oxford, Mississippi. “I know how it is in juco,” Browning said. “Division I, and especially in the SEC, I’m not taking anything for granted.” ❖
Earlier this summer Brian Browning helped his former team, NorthWest Florida State College, win the Junior College World Series.
Dr. Andrew M. Cordover
Cordover Addresses International Conference on SportsRelated Spine Injuries
Train Your Brain
Dr. Andrew M. Cordover, an orthopaedic surgeon with Andrews Sports Medicine and Orthopaedic At any level and in any sport, developing your athlete to be Center, was featured in a panel mentally strong and mentally agile can give them the edge discussion on treating spine injuries they need to succeed. Our training improves performance in during the Spine Across the Sea any sport, from baseball to softball, soccer, volleyball, football, conference in Hawaii on July 29. lacrosse, hockey, tennis and more. Cordover, who specializes in spine surgery, was one of five panelists in the “Management and Treatment of Sports-Related Spine Injuries” discussion. Cordover said in a press release issued before the conference that he was humbled and thrilled by the invitation to participate in the panel. “With our center being worldrenown for the treatment of athletic www.sportsvisionsouth.com injuries, a large majority of my time is devoted to the care of elite, collegiate 3055 Lorna Rd Suite 100 • Hoover, AL 35216 and pro athletes who have sportsrelated spine injuries and issues, as well as consulting other orthopaedic spine surgeons across the United States on the treatment of elite athletes under their care,” Cordover said. “I look forward to sharing To: Sports Vision South Andrews Sports Medicine’s return-toFrom: Over The Mountain Journal, PHONE: 205-823-9646 play protocol that is helping collegiate FAX: and pro athletes overcome spine205-824-1246 Date: August injuries and issues to safely return to their sport.” is your AD PrOOF from the OVEr THE MOuNTAiN JOurNAl for the Spine Across the Sea wasThis hosted August 13, 2015 issue. Please fax approval or changes to 824-1246. by the North American Spine Society and the Japanese Society for Spine Surgery and Related Research to give spine care professionals an opportunity to share current information and concepts for managing spinal problems. It was Please initial and fax back within 24 hours. held at the Fairmont Orchid Hotel in if we have not heard from you by 5 pm of the Friday before the press date, your ad will run as is. We print the paper Monday. Kohala Coast, Hawaii.
Be Faster, Smarter and Mentally Stronger
Call 205-490-1063 For a FREE Demonstration
Photo special to the Journal
Please make sure all information is correct, including address and phone number!
davis,
From page 28
(Hills) has been in a different class for years and we play them every season. We’ve never had the luxury of being in a weak region or playing an easy schedule.” A definite positive from the new seven-class alignment was the return of common sense in region assignments. The previous set-up created odd situations in which, for example, Spain Park would travel for hours to play Wetumpka but not take a 15-minute ride to face cross-town rival Hoover. With the new alignments, schools are placed in much better positions with natural geographical rivals. Class
7A’s Region Three brings five Over the Mountain schools together, along with Hewitt-Trussville, Thompson and Tuscaloosa County. The remainder of the class is broadly divided by North, South and East across the state. This was also done with the smallerschool classifications. The current seven-class structure is set through 2016. It will be interesting to see what – if any – tweaks are made for the new period. But for all the hype about the new alignments, it’s still all about what happens on the field.
Happy Homecoming
No matter what former Vestavia Hills quarterback Ryan Howard does, it seems he can’t avoid coming home.
After a stellar career with the Rebels from 2006 to 2009, Howard had an outstanding career at the University of Central Arkansas. Now Howard is a first-year assistant coach for UCA, which will open its season at Samford’s Seibert Stadium on Sept. 5. There are coincidences everywhere: Howard’s dad, Mike – an assistant coach at Vestavia – coached at Samford under Terry Bowden. Howard’s sister Lauren is also a Samford graduate. Make no mistake, the Howard family will be cheering for Central Arkansas in September, but don’t be surprised if Ryan’s career brings him back to Birmingham permanently one day. ❖
Thank you for your prompt attention.
OVER THE MOUNTAIN Journal
Thursday, August 13, 2015
Sports
Martin Wins Alabama Golf Association State Championship P. 26
By Lee Davis
lee davis
In 2015, Georgie Salem learned the value of home field advantage. Salem – an outfielder for the University of Alabama and a Vestavia Hills graduate – along with his teammates, experienced a baseball season without a real place to call their own. Because of major renovations to the campus’ Sewell-Thomas Stadium, the Crimson Tide was forced to play its home games at the Hoover Metropolitan Stadium about 50 miles away. “I don’t want to say that not hav-
safe at home
Not Much Change In New Alignment
Salem Returns to UA for Senior Season
Photo special to the Journal
‘I appreciate the opportunity that the Diamondbacks gave me. But I felt the best decision for me was to come back and play at Alabama and get my degree.’ ing home games was why we didn’t have a great year,” Salem, whose team went 32-28 overall and 12-18 in the Southeastern Conference last season, said. “But there’s no doubt having to travel so much took a toll.” The good news for Bama baseball fans is that the new stadium will be ready for use next spring. Even better news is that Salem recently announced his plans to return for his senior season. Salem was drafted by the Arizona Diamondbacks in the Major League Baseball First-Year Player Draft, before opting to return to Tuscaloosa. “I appreciate the opportunity that the Diamondbacks gave me,” he said. “But I felt the best decision for me was to come back and play at Alabama and get my degree.” Salem returns to the Capstone as one of the Crimson Tide’s best hopes to restore the baseball program to national prominence. Last season he started 59 games as Bama’s center fielder, batting .276 with 40 runs and 17 stolen bases. He also had a slugging percentage of .395 and put together a 17-game hitting streak. The season highlight may have
Class System
Last season, Georgie Salem started 59 games as Bama’s center fielder, batting .276 with 40 runs and 17 stolen bases. He also had a slugging percentage of .395 and put together a 17-game hitting streak.
come in the Tide’s surprising threegame sweep of arch-rival Auburn at Plainsman Park. Salem batted .462 for the weekend, with a triple, an RBI, two runs, a walk and a pair of stolen bases. He also shined in the field with a spectacular catch in the seventh inning of the third and final game to stave off a Tiger rally. “That Auburn series was one we won’t forget,” said Salem. “I think it showed our guys how we could play when everyone was playing as a team. Hopefully that will help us carrying over into the new season.” Salem also closed on a hot note, batting a whopping .458 in his last six games, including four multi-hit efforts. With all this to build on, Salem is
definitely expecting bigger things for his team next season. “We had much more talent than our record indicated, but sometimes things just don’t go quite the way you hope,” he said. “That’s just part of the game. I think we will learn from that and get better.” He has set no definite personal goals for 2016. “I want to do my part and be the best player possible every time we go out for a practice or a game,” Salem said. “From a team standpoint, we’d like to get back into the NCAA regionals and go from there to Omaha (site of the College World Series).” Salem admitted he can’t wait to set foot in the newly renovated stadium for
the first time. “I don’t know what it’s going to be like – but it will be great,” he said, laughing. “It will probably seem even better than it really is – because we’ll be at home again at last. It’s been a long wait.” After getting his degree in management and marketing, Salem hopes to get a call from professional baseball again. “Becoming a major leaguer has been a dream for a long time,” Salem said. “But for now, I’m just excited about being in Tuscaloosa and making the most of my senior year.” Georgie Salem may be playing in a brand new ball park next spring, but in every other sense, he should feel right at home. ❖
The 2014 football season supposedly opened a new era in high school football in the state when the Alabama High School Athletic Association realigned itself into seven classifications. Perhaps most notable change was the new Class 7A, which divided the 32 largest schools into four regions. The remaining six classes retained a more traditional structure with eight divisions. As expected, Hoover won the first championship of Class 7A, claiming its third straight overall title. ClayChalkville, which remained in Class 6A, took that classification’s championship. If the Bucs and Cougars had remained in the same class, they might have played an epic title game. As it was, Hoover and Clay earned what might almost be called rival championships, just as teams from the competing National Football League and American Football League claimed titles in the 1960s. If the purpose of the new 7A structure was to create a so-called “super conference,” some coaches say they didn’t see much difference from the former alignments. “There may have been a little higher concentration of talent,” said Mountain Brook coach Chris Yeager, whose team moved up to Class 7A last season. “But you could squeeze another 32 schools in there and have a great 64-team class. There’s great talent in all the larger classes and we see it every Friday night.” Homewood coach Ben Berguson, whose team was aligned in Class 6A, said any differences were negligible. “We were playing the same teams we always play,” he said. “Vestavia See davis, page 27
Your home team deserves a win! Purchase a new move-in ready home and get up to $5,000.00 toward closing costs! But don’t wait! These gorgeous new homes are available on a first-come, first-served basis. So they won’t be around forever. THE WOODWARD
THE WILLOW
Hurry! Special ends September 30th.
(205) 945.6401 | libertypark.com 4 DECORATED MODELS NOW OPEN
THE PAGE
*Buyer’s incentive of up to $5,000.00 toward Buyer’s closing costs on move-in ready homes is applicable to new homes built by LifeScape Builders, LLC and will be disclosed in the sales contract, included on the HUD Settlement Statement in the transaction and paid by Seller, Liberty Park Joint Venture, LLP at Closing. This offer applies only to contracts finalized by September 30th, 2015, and cannot be combined with any other incentives or offers. The information contained herein should be deemed accurate but not warranted. Liberty Park Joint Venture, LLP, Liberty Park Properties, and their respective builders and agents, are not responsible for errors or omissions.