Over the Mountain Journal Aug. 25, 2011 by Over the Mountain Journal

OVER THE MOUNTAIN

J O U R N A L THE SUBURBAN NEWSPAPER FOR MOUNTAIN BROOK, HOMEWOOD, VESTAVIA HILLS, HOOVER, AND NORTH SHELBY COUNTY AUGUST 25, 2011

Diehard football fans may think they’re married to the game. But what’s it like to be married to the coach? See Life, page 8.

Fall into Fashion Kick Off The Season In Style

The Birmingham Botanical Gardens debuted its fifth season of Cocktails in The Gardens Aug. 11. See Social, page 10. THURSDAY, AUGUST 25, 2011

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If you want to turn over a new leaf style-wise, autumn’s the time to spice up your clothes closet. Our model shows off just one of the can’t-miss outfits featured in this issue. Even game day gear can be trendy, not tacky, thanks to Hoover graduate Megan Crane’s collection for the Judith March clothing line. See Fashion, beginning on page 21.

INSIDE: 24-page OTM High School Football Preview Special Section!

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CONTENTS/OPINION

OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL

MURPHY’S LAW

Megan Crane, right, is the designer for Judith March. The Hoover graduate is making a splash in the fashion world with her fun dresses, and she’s even making a collection for college game day. See Fashion, page 19.

B P S

OTMJ.COM

rowse through additional photos from the area’s biggest and best social events.

lan you weekends with our extended events calendar.

ubmit your news to the Journal. At otmj.com you can submit your school news, events, social pictures and wedding and engagement announcements.

oin the conversation. Register on our website and comment on stories or like us on Facebook and follow us on Twitter for updates on what’s going on at the Journal.

In our next issue, we’ll remember the 10th anniversary of the Sept. 11 terror attacks, and take a look at art events coming up in the OTM area.

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

3 7 8 10

WEDDINGS FASHION SCHOOLS SPORTS

OVER THE MOUNTAIN

JOU RNAL

18 19 24 28

August 25, 2011

Publisher: Maury Wald Editor: Laura McAlister Features Writer: Donna Cornelius Office Manager: Christy Wald Editorial Assistant: Stacie Galbraith Sports: Lee Davis Contributors: Susan Murphy, Bones Long, Cary Estes, June Mathews, Emil Wald, Marvin Gentry Advertising Sales: Suzanne Wald, Julie Trammell Edwards, Tommy Wald Editorial Intern: Matthew Terwilliger Vol. 20, No. 16

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

First and 10 or 12

al white stripe, making the players harder for their uzzah! The NFL opponents to spot on the field. Away uniforms could has worked out be changed according to the playing field sod. “Men, its differences and this week we’re traveling to Cougar country and our there will once again be scouts have decided to go with the Zoysia jerseys.” football on Sundays. Speaking of cougars, I’d like to see only one Of course, here in tiger/reptile/yellow and black winged insect mascot Alabama, we’re more conper conference. The policy might put a strain on new cerned with football on teams waiting to join up, but hey, that would be a call Saturdays ... and Thursday for the athletic director and his big name boosters. nights and Friday nights “OK guys, here’s the deal: We can become part of the and bowl games and SEC, but the only colors left are puce and pearl and national championships Susan Murphy (any time really), but most- we’ll have to call ourselves the Texarkana Teacup Poodles.” ly, mostly Saturdays. OK, so let’s review ... colFor those of you who have watch-till-you-drop TV football ors, mascots ... oh yes, overAnd while colors are up for time. Seriously? By the end of packages, every game all the time, it should be an interesting discussion, I suggest that the fourth quarter, everyone is year. In the constant quest for exhausted. Even if you’re just no team should wear green. a fan sitting in the bleachers, more bowl revenue and media exposure, big university footIt blends in with the grass, you’re ready to go home or at ball schedules have included least stretch out in your lawn games with considerably smaller unless you’re playing Boise chair in a tailgate area where schools. (Next year I’m looking cooler and gas grill are State with their shocking your for Ohio State vs. Thompson close at hand. When the stadium blue field which Elementary.) Other teams have concession stands close, the shifted conferences completely game should be over. Period. is just wrong. so the Big Ten is now the Even Or, instead of extending the Bigger Twelve. game another 15 minutes (which That’s a big deal to some people. Me? Not so could be an hour with TV time outs), add a lightning much. As long as there are still no more than two round competition. Send one guy from each team teams on the field at any given time, I’m fine, onto the field to flip a coin or roll the dice or answer although, as long as they were upending the consome type of obscure trivia question. “And now, for ference schedules, the commissioners might have the conference championship, which country is conattended to a few other details. sidered the birthplace of cheese?” Like team colors. It would be so much better if no It could open up a whole new team position – left two teams were allowed to have the same colors in trivia back. It might be fun to see some of those aththe same conference. It may be great for merchandis- letic scholarship dollars going to a kid who’s spent ers, but it leaves fans scrambling to make minute dis- the past 12 years getting shoved into his locker. tinctions between shades of red or blue or orange. I haven’t seen an official copy yet, but I imagine And while colors are up for discussion, I suggest the NFL players included some kind of overtime that no team should wear green. It blends in with the clause in their new contract as well, although I susgrass, unless you’re playing Boise State with their pect theirs is more like $50,000 for every post-regushocking blue field which is just wrong. lation two minute drill. That would certainly speed Of course, now that I think about it, green might things along. be the perfect uniform color, green with the occasionMy demand? Don’t close the concession stands. ❖

OVER THE MOUNTAIN VIEWS

What football team are you looking forward to watching most this fall?

“I’d have to say Alabama, even though I’m not an Alabama fan. Every year they’re stacked, but last year I don’t think they used their full ability.” Eddie Foster Hoover

“Probably Alabama. I’ve been a fan my whole life. There is something about watching them, and Nick Saban has really turned them around in a short amount of time.” Taylor Garlindton Hoover

“Alabama. Last year it was a new team, and this year, I think they’ll go all out.” Jackson Hall Hoover

“I think the best to watch will be Hoover. We’re always pretty good, and come pretty close. I think we’ll do it this year.” Alec Shunnarah Hoover

OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL

Babypalooza Has Expos, Market

Children’s of Alabama and the city of Hoover will present the sixth annual Babypalooza baby and maternity expo and market Aug. 27 from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. at 5201 Princeton Way in Hoover. Billed as central Alabama’s only such event for new and expectant parents and grandparents, Babypalooza will feature more than 100 exhibitors, interactive entertainment, educational opportunities and shopping. Exhibits will range from prenatal and pediatric health and safety to nutrition and childcare, connecting parents and parents-to-be to area resources. As part of the event, Children’s of Alabama will conduct a child health expo with representatives from hospital departments, including early intervention, poison control, hearing and speech, injury prevention, the allergy division and the medical autism clinic. Experts will also be on hand from the Amelia Center grief counseling center and the CHIPS Center for child abuse. A certified technician will demonstrate proper car seat installation and offer advice on choosing the right car seat. Admission and parking are free. Overflow parking and a free trolley service are available from nearby Hunter Street Baptist Church. For more information and directions, visit www.babypaloozatour. com.

Literacy Council Will Rally for Reading

The newly-formed Junior Board of the Literacy Council will host its first fundraiser, Rally for Reading: A College Football Kickoff, Aug. 25 at 5:30 p.m. at Pale Eddie’s Pour House, 2308 Second Avenue North. Guests are invited to dress in their favorite teams’ gear. Proceeds will help the Literacy Council serve the more than 92,000 illiterate adults in Central Alabama. Tickets are $10 and are available at www.literacy-council. org, the Literacy Council office at 2301 1st Ave. N., Suite 102 or from any Junior Board member. Purchase includes admission and one raffle ticket for prizes to be given away at the end of the evening. Guests must be present to win. Junior Board members are Tiffany Adams, Rachel Anderson, Andrew Austin, Virginia Beale, Nina Diamantis, Jonathan Handey, Lindsay Handey, Landon Howell, Gregory Jackson, Dana Jaffe, Amber Long, John McElrath, Stacey McElrath, Melissa Musgrove, Leslie Newton, Kelly Roney, Laura Sheppard, Susan Shields, Sarah Strickland, Maggie Tanner and Whitney Williams. ❖

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Vestavia Hills United Methodist Church

“Whale of a Sale” Children’s Consignment Sale

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VOLUNTEERS AND SELLERS SHOP EARLY! Seller registration is online only at: www.thewhaleofasale.com Questions? Email vestaviadayschool@gmail.com

Tailgate Challenge Kicks Off Season

College football fans can celebrate the upcoming season at the annual Bell Center Tailgate Challenge Aug. 27 at noon at Sloss Furnaces. The event supports the center’s early intervention programs. Guests can sample tailgate food at team tents as well as barbecue provided by Jim ’N Nicks. The afternoon includes music, kidfriendly events and team rivalry. Celebrity judges will be on hand to rate each team on most team spirit, best-tasting food and best allaround. Team tent boosters are responsible for providing their own tailgate tents and team decorations. Each team will also provide a “taste” of tailgating food that may be prepared on site or before the event. Tickets are $15; tickets for kids under 10 are $5. For sponsoring opportunities, hosting a booster tent, tickets or questions, call Kelly Peoples at 879-3417.

Barbecue Cook Off Benefits M-POWER

The sixth annual Brasfield & Gorrie Estimating BBQ Cook Off ESTAVIA ILLS NITED ETHODIST HURCH will be Sept. 1 from 4 to 7 p.m. M-POWER Ministries is one 2061 Kentucky Avenue • Birmingham, AL 35216 of seven charities that will benefit from the fundraiser. (205) 822-9631 • www.vhumc.org The family event will be held on the parking deck of Brasfield & Gorrie, 3021 Seventh Avenue �� South. Executive director Ryan Hankins will participate as a judge. �� Tickets are $10 in advance or GAME DAY STYLE �� $15 at the door. Boston butts will be on sale for $35 and ribs for $30 �� a slab. Raffle tickets will be sold for $10, and cook-off T-shirts are $12. �� All orders are due by Aug. 25. �� M-POWER provides opportunities for people to break the cycle �� of poverty through education and �� health services.

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Trinity UMC Hosts Fall Lil’ Lambs Sale

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"Why settle for a men's department, when you can shop at a gentleman's store?" ��

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Trinity United Methodist Church in Homewood will hold its fall Lil’ Lambs consignment sale Sept. 9 and 10 in the church’s gym. Hours are 9 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. Friday and 9 a.m. to noon Saturday. Most items are half-price on Saturday. Lil’ Lambs is a sale of gently-used infants’ and children’s Shades Mountain Baptist Church will celebrate 100 years with a community-wide event Sept. 18. The church was founded in September of 1911 and was called White’s Chapel Baptist Church. At the time there were about 12 members. Photo special to the Journal

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Betty Bell stayed at the Texas tent to support her team at last year’s Bell Center Tailgate Challenge. This year’s challenge will be Aug. 27 at Photo special to the Journal Sloss Furnaces. clothing, accessories, toys, nursery items and furniture. Sellers receive 70 percent of their proceeds; the remaining 30 percent helps support Trinity’s children’s ministries. Trinity is at 1400 Oxmoor Road. For information, visit www.trinitybirmingham.com or call 879-1737.

Shades Mountain Marks 100 Years

Shades Mountain Baptist Church is celebrating 100 years with a community-wide event Sept. 18. A Celebration Service will be at 9:30 a.m. in the church’s Worship Center. A New Wind reunion will be from 4:30 to 5:45 p.m. in the fourth floor concourse, and “A Century of Song” will be at 6 p.m. in the Worship Center, followed by a fellowship featuring “100 Cakes for 100 Years.” Those who attend can tour the Centennial Center, a collection of exhibits, films and memorabilia retracing the church’s 100-year journey. The center will be open before and after the Celebration Service and “A Century of Song” Sept. 19-22 from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., including extended hours Sept. 21 from 4 to 8 p.m. Shades Mountain Baptist Church, at the intersection of Columbiana Road and Vestaview Lane in Vestavia Hills, was founded as White’s Chapel Baptist Church in September 1911. The congrega-

tion had been meeting since the fall of 1907 in a one-room schoolhouse known as the Montgomery School. According to the church’s first report to the Mineral Springs Association, there were 12 church members and a Sunday school enrollment of 30. After meeting in the schoolhouse for 19 years, the church held its first service in a new building Feb. 14, 1926. After this service, the congregation voted to rename the church Shades Mountain Baptist Church. In 1927, the church transferred from the Mineral Springs Association to the Birmingham Association. In its 100 years, Shades Mountain Baptist has had 17 pastors, but in the last 50 years, there have been only three: Carl J. Giers, beginning in 1961; Charles T. Carter, beginning in 1971; and Danny Wood, beginning in 1997. Current membership, including non-resident members such as missionaries, is more than 7,000. For information on the 100-year celebration, visit www.shades.org/ legacy or call 822-1670.

Soiree Celebrates Rock and Roll

The third annual Sankofa Society Soiree: The Soul of Rock & Roll is set for Aug. 27 at 6:30 p.m. at the Birmingham Museum of Art. The Sankofa Society: Friends of African-American and African Art will host the event in conjunction with the museum’s summer exhibit, “Who Shot Rock & Roll.” Included are music, cocktails, dinner and dancing featuring Martha and the Vandellas. Tickets are $50 for museum members and $75 for non-members. For more information or to buy tickets, call Andi Nicholson at 254-2086. ❖

OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL

Fairy Tale Ball Is Magical Party

Childcare Resources’ Junior Board will host the fifth annual Fairy Tale Ball Aug. 27 from 6 to 9 p.m. at the Birmingham Sheraton ballroom. Honorary chairmen are members of the Guy K. Mitchell Jr. family. The Fairy Tale Ball raises funds to benefit children and families served by Childcare Resources. The event includes dancing and live music by Just a Few Cats, interaction with fairy tale and whimsical characters and amusements for children and adults. A silent auction will offer vacation packages to St. Bart’s, Gulf Shores and other destinations; an AKC registered beagle puppy named Buckley; and many items for adults and children. For more information or to buy tickets, visit www.ccr-bhm. org.

BBQ Sale Aids Wounded Warriors

The Local Union VHFD 2087, the Vestavia Hills Fire Department and the Vestavia Hills Police Department will host a fundraiser Sept. 3 from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. at Vestavia Hills High School for the Wounded Warrior Project. The event will include food and activities for all ages. To pre-order Boston butts, stop by any Vestavia Hills fire station or police department. Boston butts are $30 each and are being cooked by Moe’s Original BBQ. All orders are due by Aug. 26 and will be ready for pick-up Sept. 2 after 3 p.m. at VHFD Fire Station No. 3 next to the high school. Butts can also be picked up at the event. For more information, call Todd Wilson at 790-5913.

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Members of the Childcare Resources’ Junior Board preparing for the annual Fairy Tale Ball are, front from left: Blake Rhodes and Anna Fowler. In back from left: David Cross, Keith Johnson, Mitchell Greggs Journal photo by Laura McAlister and Josh Jones.

Will Hoge Opens Vulcan Concerts

Vulcan AfterTunes begins its fall concert series Sept. 25 at 3 p.m. with a performance by Will Hoge. The three-part series on the grounds of Vulcan Park and Museum features local and national singer/songwriter acts often heard on Reg’s Coffee House and the new Birmingham Mountain Radio. Scars on 45 will perform Oct. 9. Entertainment has not been set for the final concert in the series on Oct. 23. Admission is charged. Advance tickets and VIP packages are available online at www. visitvulcan.com.

Vestavia Girls Invited to ‘Sample’ Scouting

Vestavia Hills parents and their daughters are invited to attend a Girl Scout Sampler Aug. 27 at 10 a.m. at St. Mark United Methodist Church. During the event, girls will participate in activities led by area troops while parents attend an informative meeting about the Girl Scout program. New troops will be formed at the meeting, and girls will be placed into existing troops where enrollment is still available. Girls in kindergarten through high school can participate in Girl Scouts. Adults 18 or older can learn more about becoming volunteers. For more information, call Jennifer Ray at 837-1492 or Trista Cooper at 980-4750, ext. 1020.

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tail party fundraiser Aug. 30 at the Greystone Country Club from 69:30 p.m. to help tornado victims. All ticket sales from the event will be donated to GERF, which provides support to individuals and organizations that need financial assistance as a direct result of a disaster or emergency. Attendees will enjoy complimentary appetizers and a cash bar will serve specialty Maker’s Mark cocktails. There will also be silent 3157 Cahaba Heights Rd auction. Special guest Bill Samuels Jr., Vestavia Hills • 874.6430 Maker’s Mark Bourbon’s chairmen emeritus, will be on hand to thank guests for their contribution, and one of the unique items �� up for grabs during the silent auc�� tion will be a trip for two to the �� historic Maker’s Mark Distillery �� in Loretto, Ky. Samuels will also bring a part of the distillery with �� him. VIP ticket holders will be able to dip their very own 375ml �� bottle of Maker’s Mark in the �� bourbon’s iconic red wax and take it home as a souvenir. Tickets must be purchased in �� advance. General admission is �� $75, and VIP admission tickets are $100. Call 855-648-6674 to �� purchase. Visit http://alabama. makersmark.com/ for more information.

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Genealogical Society to Host August Meeting Bill Samuels Jr., Maker’s Mark Bourbon’s chairman emeritus, will be at the GERF party and fundraiser for the April 27 tornado victims.

GERF, Maker’s Mark to Host Cocktail Party for Tornado Relief In support of those affected by the April tornadoes, the Governor’s Emergency Relief Fund, GERF, and Maker’s Mark Bourbon will be hosting a cock-

The Birmingham Genealogical Society will meet at 2 p.m. Aug, 27 on the second floor of the Birmingham Public Library in downtown. Secured parking is located behind the library. There will be a panel discussion on “Why they do what they do for genealogy.” Susan Moore’s topic will be on cemetery and finding a grave. Mary Lu Johnson will discuss indexing and transcribing, and Carol and Earl Massey will talk on publishing and writing. ❖

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Orchid Show Has Exhibits, Sale

The Alabama Orchid Society will host its 27th annual Alabama Orchid Show and Sale Sept. 1618 at the Birmingham Botanical Gardens. Show hours are 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Friday and Saturday and 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Sunday. Admission is free. Exhibits will showcase different and unusual species of orchids from vendors throughout the U.S. Many of varieties of orchids will be for sale at the show. For information, contact Margaret Holder, show chairman, at Margholder@aol.com or 9338688. The Alabama Orchid Society welcomes all visitors to the show and to its monthly meetings, held in the Birmingham Botanical Gardens’ Hodges Room the fourth Tues. of each month at 7:15 p.m.

Harvest of Hope Luncheon is Sept. 13

The fifth annual Harvest of Hope Luncheon will be Sept. 13 at 11:30 a.m. at the Cahaba Grand Conference Center. A silent auction will begin at 10 a.m. followed by the luncheon at 11:30 a.m. The event is the only fundraiser for Oak Mountain Missions, a nonprofit Christian organization that provides food, clothing, furniture and financial assistance to those in need in Shelby County and the greater Birmingham area. James Spann is the keynote speaker. Janet Hall of Fox 6 News will be mistress of ceremonies, and the Rev. Al and Passion Lewis will provide musical entertainment. A former Oak Mountain Missions client is also on the program. For more information or to make a reservation, contact Oak Mountain Missions at 685-5757 or oakmtnmissions@yahoo.com.

Rotaract Club to Host 3rd Annual Hack-It Classic

The Rotaract Club of Birmingham will host its Third Annual Hack-It Classic Aug. 27 at Highland Park Golf Course. Teams of four will compete for a variety of prizes. Registration is $75 and includes drink tickets, cart fees, green fees, range balls and an exclusive Hack-It Classic koozie. After the golf carts are turned in and awards are passed out, golfers will head to Rotaract’s 19th Hole After-Party at Innisfree to enjoy free food and beer. To participate in this year’s tournament, visit www. birminghamrotaract.com. The 2011 Hack-It Classic Title Sponsors are Butler’s Grooming and Baker Donelson. If your company is interested in other sponsorship opportunities,

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Getting ready for this year’s annual orchid show are from left: Albert Oberman, Phyllis Love, Marian Oberman, Connie Cusimano, Cathy King, Margret Holder, Jim Newsome, Ward Haarbauer, Karen Ameen, Linda Herren and Anne Carey, and in front are Ronnie Bliss and Tricia Photo special to the Journal Love.

contact bhamrotaract@gmail. com. For those who cannot make the tournament, but are still interested in supporting this event, visit Rotaract at www. birminghamrotaract.com to purchase a 2011 Hack-It Classic T-shirt. The Rotaract Club of Birmingham was founded in 2004 to develop effective leaders and promote responsible citizenship. The club’s membership is comprised of young professionals who are deeply committed to playing a key role in serving communities locally, nationally and globally. The club’s signature service project, Ready 2 Read, was recognized by Rotary International as the Service Project of the Year in 2009.

DSA Conference Includes Dance Party

A dance party for teens and adults with Down syndrome will kick off this year’s Down Syndrome Alabama Conference set for Aug. 26-27. The theme of this year’s conference is Guiding Good Health. Keynote speakers are Dr. Brian Chicoine and Dennis McGuide, Ph.D., with the Adult Down Syndrome Center in Chicago. Down Syndrome Alabama, also known as Parent Advocates for Down Syndrome, supports the adult Down syndrome clinic at UAB. The nonprofit organization is dedicated to the awareness and acceptance of individuals of all ages with Down syndrome. The “Dance the Night Away” dance party is Aug. 26 from 5:45 to 8:30 p.m. at Briarwood Presbyterian Church. Parents and others who attend can participate in educational sessions and networking. The conference will continue at the church Aug. 27 from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. with programs for parents, caretakers, educators and health professionals. The dance party is free. Tickets to the Aug. 27 conference are $40 for an individual,

$60 a couple, $65 for professionals and $15 for a teen/selfadvocate. Childcare will be provided for ages 5-12 Aug. 27 only. Reservations are required. To register, visit www.downsyndromealabama.org, call 9880810 or email downsyndromeala bama@gmail.com.

Sidewalk Bringing Indy Films to Downtown

The 13th annual Sidewalk Moving Picture Festival, a celebration of new independent cinema in downtown Birmingham, is set for Aug. 26-28. Since its debut in 1999, filmmakers from across the country and around the world have come to Birmingham to screen their work at Sidewalk and have been thrilled to discover fresh, enthusiastic crowds eager to view the independent cinema. The festival will take place in the Theatre District of downtown Birmingham. In addition to the showing of independent films throughout the weekend, there also will be several special events planned, including an Opening Night After Party at B&A Warehouse, and a Sunday Night Awards Show at the Alabama Theatre. Visit www.almovingimage. org/sidewalk-fest.html for ticket information and a detailed schedule of events and full lineup.

Consignment Sale Has Kids’ Clothes

The Giggles and Grace fall consignment sale will be Sept. 9 from 8 a.m. to 7 p.m. and Sept. 10 from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Asbury United Methodist Church. Select items will be 50 percent off Sept. 10. Clothing in sizes from infant to junior, baby items, furniture, toys, books and more will be included in the sale. Visit www.asburygigglesandgrace.com for more information. ❖

OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL

JCCHS Senior Is New Distinguished Young Woman

Gina Maiola, a senior at John Carroll Catholic High School, has been named the 2012 Distinguished Young Woman of Jefferson County. The Distinguished Young Women program, formerly known as Jefferson County Junior Miss, is a national program that emphasizes scholarship, leadership and talent. This year, 24 participants competed in scholastics, interview, fitness, self-expression and talent. In addition to being named the 2012 Distinguished Young Woman of Jefferson County, Maiola was named the Overall Spirit Winner, Overall Talent Winner for her ballet en pointe and was a preliminary Self-Expression winner. She was awarded more than $4,000 in cash scholarships. She plans to study physical therapy at the University of Alabama or Southern Methodist University. First alternate was Kaitie Benos from Vestavia Hills High School. She was the Overall Self-Expression winner and a preliminary winner in scholastics and fitness. Second alternate was Emily McDuff from Homewood High School. She was the Overall Scholastics Winner and a preliminary fitness winner. Also in the top 10 were

Chandler Rodgers, Callie Barganier and Sarah Gabel Burdette, all of Vestavia Hills High School; Raegan Gibson, Hewitt-Trussville; Laine Lidikay, Mountain Brook; Abby Taylor; Hoover; and Elizabeth Coats, Briarwood Christian. Special recognition talent winners were Sarah Fleisher and Ansley Platt of Mountain Brook and Caroline Gaylard of Vestavia Hills. Maiola will represent Jefferson County in the Distinguished Young Women of Alabama program in Montgomery in January.

Attorney Elected NRA Vice President

Attorney Jim Porter is the new first vice president of the National Rifle Association of America. He was elected second vice president and an officer of the NRA in 2009. First elected to the NRA board of directors in 1989, Porter is president of Porter, Porter & Hassinger P.C. He has served on the Alabama Trust Fund Board, the Forever Wild Land Trust Board and the Governor’s Conservation Advisory Board. He also serves as chairman of the American Firearms and Shooting Foundation and as vice president of the Alabama Rifle and Pistol Association. ❖

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THURSDAY, AUGUST 25, 2011 • 7

Top 10 finalists in the 2012 Distinguished Young Women of Jefferson County program were, from left: Abby Taylor, Sarah Gabel Burdette, Elizabeth Coats, Kaitie Benos, Gina Maiola, Emily McDuff, Chandler Rodgers, Callie Barganier, Laine Lidikay and Raegan Gibson.

THE ALABAMA CENTER FOR CHILDHOOD CANCER AND BLOOD DISORDERS

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Visit C hi ld re ns AL . or g/ he mon c to D ON AT E N O W and for information on other ways to help.

8 • THURSDAY, AUGUST 25, 2011

LIFE

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JOU RNAL

Donna Goodwin, wife of Homewood High School’s new head football coach Doug Goodwin, said she loves being a football wife, even though Journal photo by Laura McAlister it’s required her to relocate several times over a 25-year career.

Standing by Their Men

Friday Night Football is More Than Just a Game for These Dedicated Wives

BY LAURA MCALISTER JOURNAL EDITOR

o matter where a high school football coach’s career may take him, Linda Anderson and Donna Goodwin agree that to be a coach’s wife you’ve got to have strong faith. The two should know. Both their husbands are successful high school head football coaches, and both women are always at their husbands’ games. For Linda, wife of Vestavia Hills High School’s Buddy Anderson, this year will mark her 40th season sitting in the stands in Vestavia. And for Donna, wife of Homewood High’s new head coach Doug Goodwin, this will be her first year strolling the sidelines of the Patriots’ field. But she knows what it’s like to be a coach’s wife. She’s been doing it all across the state for almost 25 years. “It’s been great,” Donna said. “We both have very strong faith and feel God has led us everywhere we’ve been.” Despite these wives’ different backgrounds, they both agree that it isn’t easy being a high school football coach’s wife. But they wouldn’t have it any other way – not even during a losing season. Linda said the fall is by far her favorite time of the year. “When the pine straw starts to fall a little and there are those little blue flowers in the monkey grass, I say, ‘It’s almost here,’ ” she said. “You’d think after this long, I’d be tired of it, but I love it. I love it. “I love Buddy Anderson with all my heart and

Linda Anderson, wife of Vestavia Hills High School head football coach Buddy Anderson, embraces her husband after a game last season. This year will be the 40th season with the Photo special to the Journal Rebels for the couple.

admire and respect him. This is what we were called to do.” Linda said she’s fortunate that she and her husband have spent his entire career at one school – Buddy’s first coaching job was at Vestavia in 1972. Her three daughters attended Vestavia Hills schools, and now her grandchildren are enrolled in the system. The Rebels’ tradition hasn’t been lost through the generations. “All the little ones have their little Rebel clothes,” Linda said. They also have their family traditions. They tailgate on Friday nights, and there’s a special place in the stands where Linda and family are always watching the game. For the past 40 years, the couple has also started and ended each game day the same way – win or lose. “When he leaves the morning of a game, I get his clothes ready, and I give him a hug and a kiss and tell him ‘I’ll see you at victory field,’” she said. “And it doesn’t matter what’s going on in the game. I walk to the sidelines at exactly the three-minute mark, little ones trailing, to either celebrate with him or soothe him.” Though Donna and Doug have moved around, they too have their traditions when it comes to game day. For Donna, it’s walking the sidelines. “That’s where you’ll find me. They’ve gotten so used to me in the Super 6,” she said. “It’s just something I can do for the mommas. I take pictures and video, and not just of the players, but of the band and cheerleaders. We’re very supportive of them.” Donna said she didn’t always stroll the sidelines but found that was a way she could stay in the game and

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push out some of the negative comments that often come with dedicated football fans. When it comes to dealing with criticism of their coaching spouses, Linda and Donna have learned to take it over time. But it’s still hard, they said. “Where I sit, I’m surrounded by people I know won’t be doing that,” Linda said. “But I still hear it sometimes, and I might clinch my fists.” Donna said after having her husband as head coach and her sons as quarterbacks on his team, she’s heard the worst. Her sons, Dustin and Devon, are still on the field with their dad, now as assistant coaches. “I’ve been there, done that,” she said of the criticism she heard while her sons played for their dad. “I’ve faced the worst. I really just try to get very involved with the game and let all that go. “I try to focus on the good, and that’s the kids, coaches, everybody out there working and doing the best they can.” After all, it’s the kids, the players, that they’re there for anyway, Linda and Donna said. Both said they’re not just coaches’ wives. They’re team mothers. Linda invites players to her house on Wednesday evenings for fellowship. She and Buddy are deeply involved with the Fellowship of Christian Athletes. “We have enough Bibles

for all the players,” she said. “For some of them, this is their church. I think this time strengthens them. It brings us closer as a team and Christian friends. “We’re at Vestavia because God called us to be here. This is our home. This is our life; we’re serving students at Vestavia.” Since moving to Homewood, Donna said, she’s had the opportunity to get to know the players. She looks forward to riding to away games on the bus with them, something her husband has always insisted on. Whether it’s making sandwiches for players or taking pictures for scrapbooks, she said it’s been her joy and Doug’s to work with so many young men throughout the state, and now in Homewood. Doug kicked his career off as an assistant coach in Lanette and then made three other moves, with his last stop in Russellville before taking the lead at Homewood. Each move has been a calling, said Donna. “Each move we made, God called us to do it,” she said. “They’ve been hard, and some I haven’t wanted to leave, but there’s been good reason for leaving.” In Homewood, it was to be closer to their aging parents in Sylacauga, and also, Donna added, to get her two young grandchildren into what she considers a great school system.

THURSDAY, AUGUST 25, 2011 • 9

LIFE In addition to being the head coach’s wife, Donna is also a teacher. This year, she’s teaching algebraic connections and algebra II with trigonometry at Homewood High School. “Homewood is a great system,” she said. “They do it right here, and the city sees the importance of the school system. I’m really hoping my grandchildren will be Homewood graduates.”

Linda also has a background in education. She tutors from their Vestavia home, which is less than a mile from the high school. She said it’s been fun to see some of her students’ children enrolled in the school system. Linda thinks she and her husband were meant to spend their lives in Vestavia, and one of the best things about it is Fridays in

the fall, of course. “There is just something magical about it,” she said. “Every Friday night is a story, and something is going to happen. It may be absolutely wonderful and you win, or maybe it’s a loss, and that’s hard. “Either way, you can’t stay there long, because next week you could always win. Football is really a lesson in life.” ❖

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10 • THURSDAY, AUGUST 25, 2011

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a delightful day in the gardens

Attending the Birmingham Botanical Gardens’ first Cocktail in The Gardens were from left: Ben and Hillary Whipple, Ashley Tate, Louisa Warren and Megan Guthman. Also at the event were: above, from left: Mary Kat McCarmick and Hiller Burton. Below from left: Sara Horton and Linda Roley.

Seen at the Aug. 11 Cocktails at The Gardens were, above from left: Angela Grove and Ashlyn Rogers. Below, from he Birmingham Botanical Gardens Jenkins, Kreskin Lee, Kirkland Woodside left: Kelsey Wood and Megan Larussa. kicked off its fifth season of and Jerome Queyriaux. Cocktails in The Gardens Aug. Also there were Doris Earl, Emily 11. Wykle, Shaun Sheehan, Robert Garrett, Birmingham’s Jon Black provided the Angel Fischer, Sarah Stokes, Alana evening’s soundtrack, with War Jacket Crowe, Molly Cashion, Dawn Hurley, opening the set. Seafood-inspired hors Samantha Smith, Tiffany Leonard, d’oeuvres were provided by Imperial Sue Nuby, Katherine Koenig, Michelle Catering, and Decor by Kirsti created table Benton, John Edge, Hillary Whipple, settings for the evening’s theme, Ashley Tate and L.K. Whitney. “Surf on the Turf.” The next event in the series more photos at will be Sept. 8. Featuring the Among the more than 400 guests at the Aug. 11 event were music of Matthew DeVine, Michael Cohn, Matt Waldrep, the theme will be “Green and Serene.” Bob Tedrow, Sanders Bohlke, General admission tickets are Danielle Spacer, Leigh Ann free for members or can be purchased for Callaway, Haley Young, Ken West, Anna $15. V.I.P. tickets are available to everyone Martin, Terri Ray, Ella McCain, Mike for $25. For more information, visit www. Malone, Bettie Morales, Marie Garner, bbgardens.org/cocktails or call Shelly Cynthia Turner, Connie Grund, Greg McCarty at 414-3965. ❖ Knight, Maria Zito, Debra George, Tim

BBG’s Cocktails Kicks Off the Season with Large Crowd

OTMJ.COM

Journal photos by John Pope

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Forty-two teams of volunteer golfers raised more than ...

$35,000 for two Alabama charities at the 2011 PANGEATWO Charity Golf Tournament, hosted by the Alabama Young CPAs. The 18-hole tournament was June 8 at the Robert Trent Jones Golf Course at more photos at Oxmoor Valley. In addition to the volunteers, U.S. Open and PGA champion Hubert Green played the course with teammates to help raise money. A portion of the $35,000 was given to the Exceptional Foundation, a Homewood-based nonprofit organization that gives individuals with special needs the opportunity to enjoy social and recreational activities. Proceeds also went to the Alabama Society of CPAs’ Educational Foundation, which awards scholarships to students enrolled in accredited accounting programs at every Alabama college and university. This year’s event had 28 sponsors, including accounting and law firms, banks and other businesses. Winning teams earned bragging rights and prizes, including first and second place gift baskets

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Above: At the PANGEATWO charity golf tournament were, from left: Andy Jordan, U.S. Open and PGA champion Hubert Green and Grace Thomas. Below: Helping support charities at the recent PANGEATWO golf tournament were, from left: Grant Cardwell, Will Aderholt, Justin Photo special to the Journal Flurry and Wesley Willings.

THURSDAY, AUGUST 25, 2011 • 11

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for those with the two best overall team scores. Individual prizes were awarded for longest drive and closest to the pin. Birmingham-based PANGEATWO offers recruiting,

consulting and executive placement services across many of Alabama’s business sectors and job categories, including the financial services industry and accounting opportunities.❖

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Chefs and students at Vestavia Rotary’s Iron City Chef competition included, from left: Robbie Lee, scholarship recipient; chefs Angela Schmidt, Tom Robey and Clif Holt; Joseph Mitchell, director of the Culinary Institute; student Ronald Hudson; and chef Haller McGee.

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estavia Hills Rotary Club’s Iron City Chef competition was again a sold-out success. Guests enjoyed gourmet dishes prepared by the four competing chefs, an extensive wine tasting featuring independent vendors presented by Western Supermarkets and live Dixieland and jazz music by Sweet Licks. A silent auction and raffle at the third annual event included a mink jacket, fine art and a luxury vacation. Orchids and balloons decorated the halls. Birmingham chefs Tom Robey with Veranda on Highlands, Clif Holt with Little Savannah, Angela Schmidt with Chef U and Haller McGee with Satterfield’s were assisted by students at the Shelby Jefferson State Culinary Institute in preparing their original recipes. Guests chose the two finalists, Robey and Holt, who then competed in a 30-minute cook-off using quail and other surprise ingredients. A panel of judges declared Robey the winner of the contest for the third year in a row. Robey’s initial dish, “bugs and bellies,” featured crawfish and pork bellies on a goat cheese grit cake. His winning dish, seared quail with sautéed summer vegetables in a Dijonginger sauce, was served on a potato cake. Robbie Lee, Robey’s student assistant from the Culinary Institute, won a $1,000 scholarship from the Rotary Club. Among the 300 guests attending the event were Jack and Lee Lowther, Donna and Jim Spencer, Floyd and Sue Hair, Don and Susan Casey, Maddox and Paige Casey, Martha Kay and Rick Griffith, Nancy Payne, Rebecca Satterfield, Barbara

Above: Helping sponsor the Iron City Chef event were from left: Steven and Anna Shanks of The Source and Steve Garrett of Western Supermarkets. Left: Among those enjoying the event were Jack and Lee Lowther.

Dawson, Alesia Adams, David and Linda Whitt, John and Libby Wright, Jay Rogers, Doug Rogers, Jeanette Rogers, Becky Rogers, Kelly Creamer, Judy Merritt and John and Joan Dill. Others attending were Joy and George Langley, Natalie McGee, Lauren and Brandon Holley, George and Cindi Gammill, Scott and Nancy Selman, Fran and Kathryn Buchan, Marcia and Russell Greenhalgh, Mona Fisher and Greg Ruff, Georgia Medori, Ray and Martha Hester, Dan Beaty, Stacey, Linda, and Kelsey Berthon, Ann and Josh Watkins, Sallie and Jim Bryant and Gina and Turner

LaMaster. Members of the Vestavia Rotary’s Iron City Chef Committee were David Whitt, Scott Huner, Ed Davidson, Ray Hester, George Gammill, Tommy Tillman and Chris Harrison. Event chairman was Kent Howard. Mona Fisher was public relations/publicity chairman, and Josh Watkins was silent auction chairman. Scott Huner is club president. Proceeds from the event will benefit Rotary’s local Disaster Relief Fund, Vestavia math and debate teams, Vestavia’s Educational Foundation and Rotary International’s “End Polio Now!” and “Clean Water for the World” campaigns. ❖

THURSDAY, AUGUST 25, 2011 • 13

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Robb, Joan Stelling, Penny Thomas, Chalethia Williams and Hal Word. Renasant Bank was a contributing sponsor of the party. Terrific New Theatre, at 2821 Second Avenue South. in Birmingham’s Pepper Place, was founded in 1986 by Stewart and Stella. TNT produces musical and non-musical plays yearround.

The Birmingham Alumnae Chapter of Delta Zeta ...

Above: Among those at the TNT 25th anniversary party were from left: Audrey and Stuart Lindquist, Robert Raiford and Zane Rhoades Right: Pat Fresk, left, and Cathy Rye Gilmore, president of Birmingham’s Virginia Samford Theatre, were among nearly 100 party guests at TNT’s anniversary celebration.

Photo courtesy of David Garrett

Nearly 100 theater lovers gathered at Birmingham’s ...

Terrific New Theatre June 12 to help TNT celebrate its 25th anniversary. The party, dubbed “A Silver Soiree: 25 Years of TNT,” honored TNT founders Carl Stewart and the late Steve Stella as well as cast and crew members who have helped TNT become one of Birmingham’s most beloved and popular theater companies. In 2010, TNT was named Birmingham’s Best Live Theater by Birmingham News readers. Guests enjoyed heavy hors d’oeuvres and two open bars during the cocktail hour, which was followed by a champagne toast and cake cutting. The crowd then gathered for a formal program featuring live entertainment, a video presentation, a TNT trivia game, reminiscences of the theatre’s early days and gift presentations to the theatre and co-founder Stewart. GoPro Event Solutions was the official party planner, along with the planning committee of the TNT board of directors. Board members are Bill Shanks, president; Mary Anne Garrett, vice president; Misty White Downs, secretary; Shannon Black, treasurer; and at-large members Barry Austin, Anne Chace, Pat Christians, Stephen Dickerson, Chuck Evans, Kevin Garrett, Robert Hill, Jan D. Hunter, Phyllis

McCombs, Saxon Murrell, Cari Gisler Oliver, Jason

will celebrate its one-year anniversary with a lunch and silent auction Aug. 27 at Iz The Place in Vestavia Hills. Janet Hall, Delta Zeta alumna and Fox 6 News anchor, will present the program. The chapter was chartered in August 2010 and has 106 members representing 14 colleges and eight states. Delta’s Zeta’s national philanthropy is speech and hearing. Funds raised by the Birmingham chapter’s silent auction will be donated to the Hearing and Speech Center at the Children’s of Alabama. Members are asked to bring school supplies to be given to Hands On Birmingham to

help children in need in the Birmingham area. Serving on the event planning committee are chairman Carol Medders, Susan Lines, Sarah McClellan, Donya Rumore and Jeannine Teague. Chapter president is Christie Strange. For more information on the chapter e-mail dzbirmingham@bellsouth.net or call 870-9883. ❖

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Planning a luncheon to celebrate the Birmingham Alumnae Chapter of Delta Zeta’s first anniversary are, from left: Carol Medders, Jeannine Photo special to the Journal Teague, Susan Lines and Sarah McClellan.

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hosted by John and Kathrine Sechrist of Mountain Brook. Guests enjoyed French food and champagne. Among those attending were Annie McCarter, Bernard Moore, Margaret Bond, Serge Bokobza, Valerie Childers, Lewis Cheney, Regine Smith, Daniel Rabourdin, Jeanne Classe, Marie-Claude Freeland, Sylvianne Price and Christopherr Bond.

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Alpha Gamma Delta held its summer meeting June 21 at the home of Sally Ryan Reiser. Suzanne Lawrence Chandler presided. Reports were given about the

Attending a recent Alliance Francaise event were, from left: Margaret Bond, president Serge Bokobza and Christopherr Bond.

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formal recruitment dates and events for the eight Alabama chapters. Dr. Linda Johnson Stone gave the report for Gamma Delta chapter at Auburn

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Alpha Gamma Delta alumnae at a summer meeting included, from left, front: Emily Putman Fulton, Julie Vascocu Stewart and Hayley Hammock Young. Back: Karen DeVenney McCollum, Jane Redding Photo special to the Journal Parrish and Ashley Tucker Hicks.

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University, and Nancy Runyan Gaston gave the report for Psi chapter at the University of Alabama. Gamma Upsilon chapter at the University of Montevallo and Gamma Omega chapter at the University of Alabama at Birmingham were represented, as well as chapters at Auburn University at Montgomery, Troy University, the University of North Alabama and the University of South Alabama. Among those at the meeting were Greer Wright Bisignani, Algelia Pitts Brady, Leila Welch Brazael, Jeannie Speagle Cobb, Emily Putman Fulton, Diane Smith Godber, Kim Raines Hardwick, Anna Kilgo Harris, Pam Seamon Harris, Ashley Tucker Hicks, Meg McLain Hightower, Ashley McCarty Luke, Karen DeVenney McCollum, Amanda Gullahorn Murphy, Ann Wood Neely, Jane Redding Parrish, Linda Winkler Pope, Kym Haas Prewitt, Kristi Beasley Salamone, Laurin Welch Scott, Julie Vascocu Stewart, Nancy Kitchings Watson, GiniBeth Borden Welch, Elizabeth Estess Wilson, Susan Long Womack and Hayley Hammock Young. Other officers of the group are Amy Nichols McCain, president; Dede McDanal Moore, vice president; and Judith Hayes Hand, permanent secretary.

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its annual Summer Party June 26 at the Regency Terrace Party Room. Tables were decorated with summer flowers arranged in crystal vases by Mary Pate and Jane Crouch. Members and guests enjoyed a covered-dish dinner and dancing with music by the Classics. Attending were: Jane Crouch and Frank Jones, Virginia and John Golightly,

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Barbara and Hugh Harbin, Reba Huffman and Stan Biggs, Beverly and George Jackson, Ann and Joe Liberto, Joan Meeks and Howard Clowdus, Lou Camp, Betty Mills and Paul Barnett, Pearl Montalbano and Robert Rube, Jean Morton, Mary Nappi, Mary Pate and Jim Hawk, Shirley and Ray Patton, Gladys and Chuck Reynolds, Betty Rogers and John Bosshart, Ruby and Ben Romano, Howell Scott and Paul Chapman, Shirley and Larry Taylor, Betty and Earl Underwood, Joy and Jim Varner, Margie Wasley, Jane Weamer and Sal Theriot, Doris Shattuck and Charles Wilkerson. Guests in attendance were: Mildred Heath, Joan Whitaker, Zella Listerman and Ron Rhon, Yvone Troro and Finley Johnson and Layda Lee.

Liz Wells of Samford University’s library ...

presented a program, “Role of the Census In Alabama and U.S. History,” at the Hoover Historical Society’s recent meeting. Her program included information on using the federal and state census in genealogy research. The first two winners of the Vadie Honea Hoover Historical Society Scholarships, Emily Elizabeth Groves of Hoover High School and Jordan David of Spain Park High School, were presented to members. Jordan read her essay on “A Person in American History Who Impacted My Life” to the group. Emily could not attend, so her mother read her essay. Inez McCollum installed the society’s 2010-2011 officers: president Jacqueline Matte, first vice president Lea Pennington, recording secretary Shirley Lewis, corresponding

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THURSDAY, AUGUST 25, 2011 • 15

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Among those attending the Lamplighters annual Summer Pary were Photo special to the Journal Jane Weamer and Sal Theriot. secretary Christine Simonton, treasurer Jim Lyons and assistant treasurer Sharon Jones. This was the group’s final meeting until September.

The Girl Scouts Young Professionals ...

Society hosted the second annual Soiree@Saks Aug. 11 at Saks Fifth Avenue. Introduced this year was a Role Model Runway. This fashion show more photos at featured professional community leaders wearing some of Saks’ hottest fashions. The event featured tapenade, spinach and artichoke tart, pesto chicken and a celebration cupcake in honor of Girl Scouts’ upcoming 100th anniversary by Café IZ, live music by the Jason Bailey Band, plus a silent auction. Flip Burger Boutique served its liquid nitrogen cocktails, while Indian Pale Ale

was donated by Good People Brewery. Johnny Green Seeds Wine and Coca-Cola Bottling Company also donated beverages. All in attendance had the chance to shop at Saks Fifth Avenue with a portion of the sales going back to the Girl Scouts. The first 50 guests received Super Swag Bags filled with goodies, and the next 100 received regular swag bags. Silent Auction items included

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At a recent meeting of the Hoover Historical Society were, from left: new officers Jacqueline Matte, Delores Wilkinson, Lea Pennington, Shirley Lewis, Jim Lyons, Sharon Jones and Inez McCollum, who led Photo special to the Journal the installation ceremony.

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Above: Attending the second annual Soiree at Saks benefiting the Girls Scouts were from left: Deborah O’Connor, Liz Furst and Meredith Foster. Below: Others there were Shelia Smith, left, and April Deal.

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and author; Shannon Raine of Protective Life; Juliana Rameriz of the Hispanic Interest Group; Janine Smith of Burr Forman; Elena White of The Green Way and coordinator of Green Drinks and Walker White Dorman of Summer Classics. Chairing the event was Sarah Moran. Vivian Yeilding was the co-chair. Other committee members include Ben Goldman, Stephanie Hutcheson, Lindsey Mann, Melissa May, Rukiya McClain, Rachel McElroy, Colleen Mullins, Wynona Raby, Jen Ruiz, Susan Shields and Tiffany Story. Soiree’s presenting sponsor was American Family Care. Other event sponsors included Ann Mandori, Ameriprise, Hand Arendall, Infomedia, Medical Properties Trust, Regions Bank, Samuel R. McCord - Attorney at Law, Sirote & Permutt & Sysco. All proceeds from the event benefitted the initiatives of the Girl Scouts of North-Central Alabama.

baby packages, hotel stays, golf packages, event tickets, dinner dates, fitness packages, spa days, Saks merchandise and more. Participating as models in the Role Model Runway were Amy Lemley Bailey of MyScoop Media; Courtney Bascom Truss of the Birmingham Business Alliance; Keith Brashier of Gregory, Burns & Brashier; Tate Maddox of Live Design Group; Audrey Pannell of STYLE Advertising; Mary Potter Cummings of the Frost Cummings Tidwell Group, Marc Raby, a local playwright

season recently at Aldridge Gardens. Outgoing president Lynda Kern presented checks to representatives of the club’s charities, Alzheimer’s of Central Alabama, the Exceptional Foundation’s Tricia Kirk and the Amelia Center’s Andy McNeil. Sylvia Sumners presented a check for the proceeds of the golf tournament to Safehouse’s Kathy Wells. New officers, who will begin their duties in September, were installed. Barbara Traywick will be president. Rip Weaver, Aldridge Gardens executive director, told the group about recent improvements and future plans for the gardens. After a lunch prepared by Café Iz, members and guests toured the gardens, escorted by Weaver and volunteers. ❖

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Accepting checks from the Riverchase Women’s Club on behalf of their organizations were from left: Kathy Wells, Andy McNeil and Tricia Photo special to the Journal Kirk.

THURSDAY, AUGUST 25, 2011 • 17

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18 • THURSDAY, AUGUST 25, 2011

Jones-Blackwell

Dr. and Mrs. James Matthew Jones III of Vestavia Hills announce the engagement of their daughter, Abigail Crisswell Jones, to Christopher Houston Blackwell, son of Mr. and Mrs. David Houston Blackwell of Hoover. The bride-elect is the granddaughter of Mrs. Charline Crisswell Dorricott and the late Mr. Billy Jim Dorricott of Birmingham and Mrs. Dorothy Tuggle Jones and the late Dr. James Matthew Jones Jr. of Dothan.

Chandler-Martin

Chapple Christine Chandler and Zackary Hunter Martin were married March 19 at First United Methodist Church of Carrollton, Ga. the Rev.

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WEDDINGS & ENGAGEMENTS Miss Jones is a 2005 graduate of Vestavia Hills High School and 2009 cum laude graduate of Auburn University, with a master’s degree in human development and family studies with a concentration in marriage and family therapy. She was a member of Alpha Gamma Delta social sorority, SGA Senate, Camp War Eagle, Lambda Sigma, Omicron Delta Kappa, Cardinal Key and Mortar Board. She is a graduate assistant in research at Auburn University. The prospective groom is the grandson of the late Mr. and Mrs. William Russell Hill of Greenville and Dr. and Mrs. Paul Houston Blackwell of Birmingham. Mr. Blackwell is a 2003 graduate of Shades Mountain Christian School and 2007 cum laude graduate of Auburn University with a bachelor’s degree in building construction. He was a member of Farmhouse social fraternity, Camp War Eagle and War Eagle Girls and Plainsmen. He is employed with Brasfield & Gorrie in Atlanta and is working as project manager in St. Simons Island, Ga. The wedding is planned for Sept. 24. Thomas Greer and Pastor Greg Cochran officiated the 2 p.m. ceremony. A reception followed. The bride is the daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Cary Scott Chandler of Vestavia Hills. She is the granddaughter of Mr. and Mrs. Frank Joseph Lawrence of Augusta, Ga., formerly of Vestavia Hills, and Mrs. John Chapple Chandler Jr. of Carrollton and the late Col. Chandler. The groom is the son of Mr. and Mrs. Carl Turner Martin III of Carrollton. He is the grandson of Mr. and Mrs. Wendell Howard Furr of Temple, Ga., and Mr. and Mrs. Fernando Carlos Zapico and the late Carl Turner Martin Jr., all of Carrollton. The bride was given in marriage by her father. She wore a white gown made of cameo satin with a straight strapless neckline and scattered beadwork over the bodice and skirt. The gown featured a beaded chapel-length train. The bride’s fingertip veil was made of white tulle with a beaded edge and was attached to her hair with a pearl comb. The bride carried a hand-tied bouquet of white peonies, ranunculus and roses, along with a Bible belonging to the late John Chapple Chandler Jr., for whom the bride is named. Mary Lawrence Chandler and Elizabeth Sparks Chandler of Vestavia Hills were maids of honor. Lauren Carol Godwin of Cartersville, Ga., was bridesmaid. Mary Kathryn Elizabeth Martin of Carrollton was flower girl. The groom’s father was best man. Groomsmen were Carl Turner Martin IV and Ross Hayden Martin, both of Carrollton. Cary Scott Chandler Jr. of Carrollton escorted the bride’s grandmothers. Andrew Sparks Watson of Vestavia Hills was ring bearer. After a wedding trip, the couple live in Carrollton.

Ward-Allen

Kathryn Wright Ward and Wilbur Keay Allen III were married June 4 at 5 p.m. at St. Mary’son-the-Highlands in Birmingham. The Rev. Geoffrey Evans officiated. A reception followed at the Jemison Gallery. The bride is the daughter of Ms.

Beattie-Lovoy

Mr. and Mrs. Arthur Paul Beattie of Atlanta, formerly of Birmingham, announce the engagement of their daughter, Jenna Lauren Beattie, to Mark Vincent Lovoy, son of Mr. and Mrs. Vincent Joseph Lovoy of Birmingham. The bride-elect is the granddaughter of Mr. and Mrs. Allen Jackson Ware Jr. of Knoxville, Tenn., and Mrs. Jean O’Connor Beattie of Birmingham and the late Francis Martin Beattie. Miss Beattie is a 2002 graduate of John Carroll Catholic High School and a 2006 graduate of the University of Alabama with a bachelor’s degree in public relations. She was a member of Alpha Delta Pi sorority and is an account coordinator for Intermark Group. The prospective groom is the grandson of the late Josephine and Mark Ferlisi and the late Mary and Vincent Lovoy, all of Birmingham. Mr. Lovoy is a 2000 graduate of St. Bernard Preparatory School in Cullman and a 2006 graduate of the University of Southern Mississippi with a bachelor’s degree in business administration. He was a member of Sigma Chi fraternity and is a financial advisor for Merrill Lynch. The wedding is planned for Sept. 10.

OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL

Pamela Evans Ward of Birmingham and Mr. George William Ward of Atlanta. She is the granddaughter of the late Mr. and Mrs. Troyce Herbert Evans of Gadsden and Ms. Carolyn Jean Ward of Birmingham and the late Mr. Clarence William Ward of Evergreen. The bride will graduate from the University of Alabama at Birmingham with a master’s degree in nurse anesthesia in December. The groom is the son of Mr. and Mrs. Wilbur K. Allen Jr. of Birmingham. He is the grandson of the late Mr. and Mrs. Wilbur K. Allen and Mrs. Donald Ross Pritchard and the late Mr. Pritchard, all of Birmingham. The groom is employed at RPA, Inc. The bride was given in marriage by her mother. Matron of honor was Tara Pridgen Davis. Bridesmaids were Elizabeth Marie Murray, Elizabeth Ann Norris, Mary Chollet Still O’Neal, Emilie

Burg-Scully

Mr. and Mrs. Edward Nicholas Burg Jr. of Birmingham announce the engagement of their daughter, Allison Mims, to Matthew Taylor Scully, son of Mr. and Mrs. Dennis William Scully of Atlanta. The bride-elect is the granddaughter of Mr. and Mrs. Joel Ray Davis of Athens and Mr. Edward Nicholas Burg and the late Mrs. Barbara Amberson Burg of Birmingham. Miss Burg is a graduate of Mountain Brook High School

Morrison-Reese

Mr. and Mrs. Mark Morrison of Birmingham announce the engagement of their daughter, Megan Morrison, to Jason Reese, son of Mr. and Mrs. Johnny Reese of Birmingham. The bride-elect is the grand-

Reid Parker, Virginia Lee Rives and Katherine Blake Watson. Virginia Louise Howard and Daisy Carlisle Howard served as flower girls. The groom’s father was best man. Groomsmen were Donald Pritchard Allen, brother of the groom; Charles Cleveland Clark Jr.; Andrew James Collins; William Leath Debuys; William Jemison Jones; and William Steven Nichols. Ushers were Joseph Lee Griffin Jr., Thomas Pritchard Griffin, Edward Ford McGuffey, Grant Evans McGuffey, David Carl Williams Jr. and Stephen Wright Williams. Donald Ross Pritchard III and Mary Evelyn Pritchard were program attendants. Scripture readers were Louise Hinton Griffin and Elisabeth Bunting Howard. Margaret Louise Pritchard served as the crucifer. The couple will live in Birmingham. and was presented at the Ball of Roses. She received her bachelor’s degree in English from the University of Alabama, where she was a member of Kappa Delta sorority. She received her juris doctor from the University of Alabama School of Law and is law clerk to the Hon. Charles A. Graddick in Mobile. The prospective groom is the grandson of the late Mr. and Mrs. Harold Benjamin Dobson of Birmingham and Mrs. Agnes Marie Scully and the late Mr. James Thomas Scully of Louisville, Ky. Mr. Scully graduated from Marist School in Atlanta. He is a graduate of Presbyterian College, where he received his bachelor’s degree in business administration. He received his juris doctor from the University of Alabama School of Law and his master of business administration magna cum laude from the University of Alabama Manderson Graduate School of Business. He is employed as an attorney with The Kullman Firm in Mobile. The wedding is planned for Oct. 1 in Highlands, N.C. daughter of Dr. and Mrs. Troy L. Morrison of Gadsden and Mr. and Mrs. Norman Milner. Miss Morrison is a 2006 graduate of Oak Mountain High School and a 2010 graduate of the University of Alabama with a bachelor’s degree in sales and marketing. She is employed in sales and marketing by Taziki’s Mediterranean Cafe. The prospective groom is a 2000 graduate of Briarwood Christian School and a 2005 graduate of the University of Alabama with a bachelor’s degree in public relations. He is in advertising sales with Latitude Media Group LLC. The wedding is planned for Sept. 17 at 5 p.m. at Southside Baptist Church in Birmingham.

FASHION

OVER THE MOUNTAIN

JOU RNAL

Game Day Glam Hoover Grad Creates Chic Clothes for Fashion-Conscious Football Fans

BY LAURA MCALISTER JOURNAL EDITOR

hen it comes to game day fashion, forget the body paint and T-shirts. Thanks to a Hoover High graduate, women, at least, have some much more fashionforward options. Megan Crane is the designer for the Santa Rosa Beach, Fla.-based Judith March clothing line. In addition to fun, flirty dresses for any time of the year, the clothing line also includes a college game day collection. And since Crane and Stephanie Nichols, founder of Judith March, are both Alabama natives, you can bet there are plenty of orange and blue and red and white options to choose from. “I graduated from Auburn and Stephanie from Troy,” Megan said. “Every time I would go to try to find a dress with orange and blue, I could never find what I wanted. It was either always a solid orange or solid navy.” That’s not the case with the Judith March game day collection. Megan believes the perfect dress is all about prints and fit, so she designs her own patterns and tries on each dress herself. In the game day collection, she’s created signature prints using her alma mater’s team colors of orange and blue. And since she has a boyfriend who’s a Tide fan, she’s also making dresses in red and white and houndstooth. The game day dresses fit right in with the rest of the Judith March collections. They’re what Megan would call “girly.” “There’s a lot of strapless options or one-shoulder,” she said. “We wanted something casual enough that people would wear them to games.” This is the second year Judith March will offer a game day colThe Judith March line features a game day collection with plenty lection. Megan said they offered four dresses the first year but had of red and white and orange and blue styles to choose from.

See Game Day Glam, page 20

THURSDAY, AUGUST 25, 2011 • 19

smart style

Inspired by the start of a new school year, we visited Over the Mountain libraries to study the latest looks for fall fashion. journal photography by John Pope

Photos special to the Journal

Dress Inspired by ‘Laura’s Story’ Raises Funds for Cancer Research BY LAURA MCALISTER JOURNAL EDITOR

Megan Crane designed her “Think of Laura” dress in teal, the color that represents ovarian cancer awareness.

egan Crane isn’t just using her fun, flirty designs for fashion. With a cute little teal number she designed in 2010, she’s helping fund research for an early detection diagnostic test for ovarian cancer. Inspired by a young woman who lost her life to ovarian cancer, Megan, the designer for the Florida-based Judith March clothing line and a 2003 Hoover High graduate, decided to design a dress that would help raise money for the Laura Crandall Brown Ovarian Cancer Foundation. Laura Crandall Brown lost her battle with ovarian cancer at age 24 in 2009. Although Megan didn’t know Laura personally, her story impacted the 26 year old. “My mother was really good friends with Laura’s aunt, Rachel Sizemore,” Megan said. “We always heard about Laura through her. I remember seeing her wedding photos and thinking how pretty she looked, and then shortly after that we learned she had cancer and was having to go through chemotherapy.” Laura’s family and friends formed the Laura Crandall Brown Ovarian Cancer

Foundation after she died to grant Laura’s wish to help find an early detection diagnostic test for ovarian cancer. If found early, the cancer is highly treatable. Like many close to Laura and her family, Megan’s mother, Kim, joined the foundation. “My mom was on the board, and they started doing all these fundraisers,” Megan said. “The biggest one is Taste of Teal. I started thinking of a way I could help raise more money, and I thought I could design a dress.” Megan’s Think of Laura Dress fits right in the Judith March line. It’s strapless with a hemline just above the knee. It also represents the fight to treat and cure ovarian cancer. The dress is teal, the signature color for ovarian cancer awareness, and has a white bow sewn on the front. The dress was first auctioned at the 2010 Taste of Teal event. Then 1,000 were produced, and $10 for each one purchased goes to the Laura Crandall Brown foundation. “I love the dress,” Megan said. “It’s cute. It kind of reminds me of a Tiffany box. The teal is a beautiful color, and it goes to a good cause. “We produced 1,000 dresses, so that’s $10,000 that could go to the foundation.” ❖

Kelly Oliver is looking smart in a denim dress, $184, and an organic cotton oatmeal colored trench, $276, by Prairie Underground. She’s topped off this sophisticated fall look with a bag by Collina Strada, $297, heals by Camilla Norrback, $211, and a necklace, $89, by Red Bird. Molly Green, 637-7210

20 • THURSDAY, AUGUST 25, 2011

FASHION

These girls are ready to start the school year in style. McCartney Moates, 11, of Liberty Park Middle School is wearing a Rossette Orchid empire waist dress with embroidery, $53. Lauren Crabtree, 11, of Berry Middle School is wearing a brown drop waist dress with buttons by Truly Me, $56. Elizabeth Moates, 8, of Vestavia Hill Elementary Cahaba Heights is wearing a Mimi & Maggie brown and blue baseball shirt with applique birds $53 and skinny jeans starting at $49. Gigi’s, 298-1811

Megan Crane, right, is the designer for Stephanie Nichols’ clothing line, Judith March. The two met while Megan was working for Kay Unger in New York City.

Judith March, from page 19

such a great response that they’ve added more this year. It’s not just the game day collection that’s growing. The entire Judith March line has taken off since the company launched in October 2010. Megan was working in New York when she was approached by

Stephanie, who at the time owned a clothing boutique in Santa Rosa Beach, Fla., about joining her in starting the Judith March label. “The reason Stephanie wanted to start her own line was because people at her boutiques were always saying they wanted clothes that fit better. They wanted prettier prints,” Megan said. “We started talking, and I knew I could help her from a technical aspect, plus I did design, as well.” Good fit and unique prints are Megan’s specialties. Megan graduated from Hoover High in 2003 and then went to Auburn University to major in apparel design. The summer of her senior year, she interned for Kay Unger in New York City. Though she was offered a full-time job with the line, she chose to return to Auburn to get her degree. After graduation, she secured a job with Phoebe Couture, an edgier, more youthful division of Kay Unger. “I worked under the head designer,” she said. “I had to come up with designs and did all my own prints for the daytime division and the evening. They were very high-end dresses. “I had to work with the factories in China and the production teams. I was kind of a one-stop shop. It was very hands on, but it helped me learn.” The skills she learned from Phoebe Couture helped her in starting the Judith March line, she said Now, almost a year into the venture, Megan said the line continues to grow. The company has its own office building with about 30 full-time employees and is adding collections as well as retail locations. Currently, Judith March dresses are sold in more than 1,300 stores in the U.S., Canada and Puerto Rico. In the Birmingham area, the line can be found at Altar’d States, Chloe’s Closet, MiGi’s and Turquoise. ❖

OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL

These kids are ready for some back to school fun. Jesse Holt, 10, of Crestline Elementary is wearing a blue Nike girls’ tennis skort, $34, and top, $32. Her Wilson Jr. racquet is $50. Christian Parker, 11, of Crestline Elementary is wearing green Nike Tempo shorts, $28, Nike Pro Compression shirt, $25, and Asics gel Kayano shoes, $90. Hayes Gibson, 8, of Crestline Elementary is wearing an Under Armour replica Auburn University jersey, $49.95, Under Armour youth shorts, $19.99, and Asics gel Trabuco boys’ shoes, $60. Avery Robbins, 7, of Cherokee Bend is wearing an Alabama cheerleader outfit, $49.95. Mountain Brook Sporting Goods, 870-3257

OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL

THURSDAY, AUGUST 25, 2011 • 21

FASHION Eve Smith, right, and Carmen Smith are sporting smart fall styles. Eve is wearing a Jude Connally cheetah print dress, $154, and Sacha London pumps, $94, in taupe suede. She accessorized with a custom monogram gold necklace, bracelets, $28 for the set, and earrings, $22. Carmen is wearing a Johnny Was Collection top with lace insets in purple ash, $198, David Khan skinny anklelength tie dye wash jeans, $166, Earth faux fur boots in brown suede, $186, key necklace, $32, and wrap bracelet, $36. Chic Boutique, 980-2272

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�� Get game day ready from head to toe. These Alabama and Auburn Legacy Athletic sandals, $34.99, are a must for football fans. For everyday wear this fall, try these classic tan flats by Yellow Box, $47.99, and navy sandals by Lindsay Phillips, $25.99. Monograms Plus, 822-3353

McKenna Welman, 17, of Mountain Brook is looking smart in an Art of Cloth hand-dyed ruana, $150, A’nue Ligne charcoal tank, $62, and JAG indigo denim legging, $78. She topped off her fall look with a Laurel Bassett handmade necklace, $114, cuff, $78, and earrings, $68. Town & Country Clothes, 871-7909

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22 • THURSDAY, AUGUST 25, 2011

Christa Harding looks chic and sophisticated in a tank by Vince, $48, and dress by Krista Larson, $423. Her duster by Benjamin, $88, is cinched with a Kippys belt, $280. She’s wearing shoes by Pedro Garcia, $460. Her fabulous fall look is topped off with a hat by San Diego Hat Company, $65, necklace by Bobbie Caldwell, $145, and earrings, a Betsy Prince exclusive, $58. Betsy Prince, 871-1965 Whether they’re off to a party or headed to the classrooms, these girls look super stylish. Michelle Sasnett is wearing Blank NYC Jeans in burnt orange and red, $76.80; ecru lace tulle top $45.80; multi-row chain length necklace, $39.80; ring, $18.50; bamboo wedge shoes, $36; bracelet $36.80; and earrings, $12.80. Katharine Palton is wearing Joe’s straight and narrow jeans, $94.90; French Connection white cotton peasant blouse, $148; Beaded Statement necklace, $36.80; bangle bracelet grouping, $24.80; and shoes by Chinese Laundry, $64.80 She’s carrying a faux eel skin handbag $46.80. Private Gallery, 969-1559

FASHION

This fall it’s all about color, and Miss Alabama Courtney Porter looks funky and fun wearing an abstract silk sheer blouse, $264, and short pleated skirt, $209, from By Smith (designer Smith Sinrod graduated from the University of Alabama and is now living in New York City). The black lace tights are by Spanx, $28. Leather belt is by Sandy Duftler, $154. Oversized pearl and crystal necklace is by Gerard Yosca, $264. Hair and makeup is by Joelle Salon. The Clothes Tree by Deborah, 822-1902

OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL

There’s no need to limit game day attire to T-shirts and jeans. Ross Umphrey of Vestavia Hills looks stylish and sophisticated wearing a Southern Tide white checkered men’s button down, $98, and Southern Tide khakis, $98.50. Remon’s Clothier, 977-5512

These girls are hitting the books in style. Vestavia Hills High senior Hadley Algren, left, is wearing a long-sleeved dress with a lace knit skirt and yoke layered over an attached slip. The dress is trimmed in a lightweight sweater knit with ruffled trim details, $96. She’s layered the dress with a beautiful scarf with lace panels in pale pink, brown and taupe, $46. Julie Beasley, a junior at Samford University, is wearing an olive V-neck sweater tunic with a bright abstract print. The top has “poofed” threequartered sleeves with a flattering empire waist, $58. Charcoal knit leggings, $29, are tucked into her favorite boots. To complete the outfit, she’s added a two-strand multistone necklace, $49, which picks up all of the colors in her top. Pink Tulip, 870-7258

THURSDAY, AUGUST 25, 2011 • 23

FASHION

OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL

Autumn in the South calls for layering. Alex Bennett, left, of Homewood and Janet Keeble of Hoover wear pieces that easily transition from warm days to cool nights. Alex has on a taupe and cream lace jacket from Surrealist, $149, and a tank, also from Surrealist, on sale at $29, and Level 99 slim boot cut jeans, $92. Janet is wearing an Ark & Co. sheer blouse, $52, a Kersh bustier, $34, and Hard Tail silk pants, $104. Janet’s Sbicca wedges are on sale for $35. Chloe’s, 874-6430

Who said mothers and daughters can’t shop together? Lissie Stewart looks like a stylish mom wearing a Kay Unger dress and matching sweater in pale colors of gold, cream and peach, $795. The skirt is lightweight metallic tweed topped by a feminine ruffled chiffon bodice. A shimmery peach matching Kay Unger sweater with neutral toned beads and sequins at the neck make the look perfect for fall evenings at the club or an afternoon wedding. The outfit is accessorized with a yellow gold Anna Balkan cluster necklace of peridot, chalcedony and pearls, $228. Her daughter Lauren Stewart is wearing the new fall red in a darling ponti knit dress by Muse, $176. The empire waist dress with flattering front tent pleat is accented by a braided fabric trim around a deep scoop neck. Lauren adds some flash with a grouping of gold Swarovski Crystal bangle bracelets by Seasonal Whispers, $26 each, and coral and gold earrings by Susan Shaw, $28. Lulie’s on Cahaba, 871-9696

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Shoes can be comfortable and cute this fall if you choose these Merrell women’s clogs in tan or black Encore Breeze 2, $79.95. In the South, sandals can serve as year-round footwear. This women’s Yucatan sandal Ecco comes in white or tan, $129.25. For runners, women’s Brooks Dyad running shoes, $99.95, are a perfect fit. Carl’s Comfort Shoes, 980-4800

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24 • THURSDAY, AUGUST 25, 2011

SCHOOLS

OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL

Members of Troop 1912, an honorary Girl Scout troop of legislators, include, from left: Kurt Wallace, Mary Sue McClurkin, Jamie Ison, Paul DeMarco, Terri Collins, Barbara Boyd, Elaine Beech and Cam Ward Photo special to the Journal with GSSA board member Marian Loftin.

Girl Scouts Induct Legislative Troop

The Girl Scouts of NorthCentral Alabama and the Girl Scouts of Southern Alabama inducted a bi-partisan delegation of legislators into the Alabama Honorary Girl Scout Troop 1912 June 2. The ceremony was held in the Capitol auditorium. Senate members include Linda Coleman, Priscilla Dunn, Vivian Figures, Mark Keahey, Hank Sanders, Bobby Singleton, Harri Anne Smith and Cam Ward. House of Representatives members included Speaker Mike Hubbard, Alan Baker, Elaine Beech, Barbara Boyd, Terri Collins, Merika Coleman, Paul DeMarco, Juandalyn Givan, Laura Hall, Jamie Ison, Yvonne Kennedy, Mary Sue McClurkin,

Join us for the Grand Re-Opening of the Heighst Village

Joseph Mitchell, Mary Moore, Becky Nordgren, Patricia Todd, Mark Tuggle, Pebblin Warren, Kurt Wallace and April Weaver. DeMarco presented a resolution recognizing June 2 as Girl Scout Day and the formation of Troop 1912.

OLS Says Goodbye to Youth Minister

More than 30 teenagers turned out to bid farewell to Chelsea Piper, who has been youth minister at Our Lady of Sorrows Church in Homewood for more than two years. During the goodbye party July 20, Piper was presented with a custom scrapbook containing photos and letters from the teens. She also received a laptop computer, presented earlier by OLS pastor Martin Muller. Piper will begin studying for her master’s degree in divinity at the University of Notre Dame. The get-together featured

a Tex-Mex buffet and ice cream sundae bar prepared by Dawn McCarty, Patti Kyle and Michelle Gentry, whose teenagers are members of the youth group. Joining the gathering was Brendan Kelly, recently named OLS youth minister. Teenagers there included Adam Lucy, Abby Lucy, Abby King, Michael McCarty, Hannah Jane McCarty, Grace Kyle, Franny Kyle, Jessica Chriesman, Erin Holt, Lauren Hankes, Brittany Nkashama, Nicole Pierluisi, Chris Schiller, Mary Claire Nabors, Anna Lee Nabors, Ann Casey Hughes, Caleb Weaver, Zach Gentry, Katharine Buckley, Sara Beth Harrell, Ricky Umstead, Gabrielle Smith, Jenn Nichols, Hannah Gagnon and Bryan Lucas. ❖

Outgoing youth minister Chelsea Piper, with incoming youth minister Brendan Kelly, was honored at a goodbye party at Our Lady of Sorrows Church in Homewood.

Photo special to the Journal

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The 2011-2012 Pizitz Middle School seventh grade cheerleaders attended the Universal Cheerleaders Association BAMA 1 Camp at the University of Alabama in June. The seventh

grade squad won superior ribbons in extreme routine and Diplomate Board of Pediatric Dentistry cheer. It also received a second place trophy in Home Pom in the large group middle school division and a fourth place trophy in extreme routine. Members of the seventh grade squad are front Virginia College is hiring! row, from left: Madeline Brown, Virginia College, Online Programs continues to grow and Tyler Jones, Mackenzie Olcott, change students’ lives. Our mission is, in part, to provide high Abby Mashburn, Sarah Bagby �� quality, �� career focused educational services to a diverse student and Caroline Sumner. Back, �� population �� in a dynamic, growth oriented setting. from left: Taylor Trotman, Hope � �� If you have a passion for helping college students change their Henson, Tori Bachofer, Katelin �� lives �� and if you would like to be a part of an expanding college Faherty, Brooke Lindsey, Caroline with its�� face to the future, please contact us, now. Parker, McKenzie Tipton, sponsor �� Jemmie Clements and Alexandra Please send your letter of Casanova. interest and resume to: Photo special to the Journal vcoresumes@vc.edu ��

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SCHOOLS

THURSDAY, AUGUST 25, 2011 • 25

Brookwood Forest Students Attend Leadership Forum

Kathryn Davis, Sydney Waite and James Pitard, students at Brookwood Forest Elementary in Mountain Brook, attended the People to People World Leadership Forum in Washington, D.C., June 20-25. The three joined students from all over the world to study leadership and explore some of the U.S.’s most prominent monuments and institutions. From Capitol Hill to the Smithsonian Institution, and from historic Gettysburg to the National Museum of American History, the BFE students examined the characteristics of American leadership during times of national challenge and prosperity. As forum delegates, they also participated in small-group discussions and exercises to experience firsthand how successful leaders develop strategies, make decisions, build consensus and foster change. The students, now in the sixth grade, were nominated by Mary Jackson, their fourth grade teacher. Each was accepted for the honor based on outstanding scholastic merit, civic involvement and leadership potential. After 20 years as an educator, Jackson officially retired from teaching in May. After Kathryn, Sydney and James returned from Washington, D.C., their former teacher invited all three to her house to share their experiences at the forum.

HHS Students Create Participate in Environmental Policy

Homewood High School’s Jared Fuqua, Tyler DeCastra, Nikki Treault and Brodie Martin, along with students from Hoover High School, Indian Springs, Minor High School and Wenonah High School, recently participated in the Youth Policy Summit facilitated by the Keystone Center of Colorado. Students were challenged to develop consensus-based policy recommendations for the future of Alabama’s water resources. They conducted research on various topics and stakeholders of the water puzzle to recommend possible sustainable solutions to meet current and future water demands in Alabama. With guidance from an expert panel, professional educators and facilitators, students created viable solutions to a problem that is confounding policy makers nationally. The final report can be viewed at www.youthpolicysummit.org. ❖

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Teacher Mary Jackson invited several of her former students at Brookwood Forest Elementary to her home following the children’s trip to the People to People World Leadership Forum. With her are, from left, Sydney Waite, Kathryn Davis and James Pitard.

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�� Homewood High School students attending at youth policy summer were from left in front: Nikki Trtreault and Brodie Martin, and in back: Photo special to the Journal Jared Fuqua and Tyler DeCastra.

Fifth grade girls set to attend Brock’s Gap Intermediate School, Hoover’s newest school, gathered at Charming Charlie at the Summit before the start of the school year to shop, meet new friends and help others. Guests brought school supplies that were donated to Kids First, an after school program in Alabaster. Hosting the event were, from left: Celia Simpson, Anna Camille Self, Noel Rengering, and Haley Photo special to the Journal Stallworth.

26 • THURSDAY, AUGUST 25, 2011

SPORTS

OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL

2011 Boys and Girls All State Lacrosse Teams

OTM Schools Well Represented, Briawood’s Albert Jordon, Named Academic All American

Members of the 2011 Alabama Girls All State Team include, from left, front: Kacye Swift, Oak Mountain; Ellie Mannon, Vestavia; Carly Moon, Vestavia; Josie Lent, Vestavia; Christine Haley, Oak Mountain; Krissy Mauro, Hoover; Victoria Sexton, Hoover; Abbey Taylor, Vestavia and Anaiza Medina, John Carroll. Back: Amanda Choate, John Carroll; Britney Lockhart, Ramsay; Darieal Wimbley, Ramsay; Taylor Bates, Hoover; Lucy Anne Link, Vestavia; Danielle Fairweather, Spain Park; Madi Brawley, Spain Park; Cecilia Appleberry, Vestavia; Margaret Connolly, Spain Park; Taylor Cos, Hoover; Scarlet Stamps, Oak Mountain; Laura Tovar, Mountain Brook and Kendall Fann, Oak Mountain. Not Picture: Brooke Calvert, Huntsville.

Team Sting is 15U National Champions

Team Sting Volleyball Club 15’s beat Orlando Volleyball Academy 15’s on June 18 to claim the 2011 AAU National Volleyball Championship. Members of the team include: Paige Phillips, Vestavia Hill High School; Hannah Kate Thompson, John Carroll High School; Olivia Dailey, The Cahaba School; Corey Phillis, The Donoho School; Shayla Williams, Oak Mountain High School; Melanie Sloneker, Oak Mountain High School; Emma Cotney, Chelsea High School; Lauren Palmer, Briarwood High School and Elizabeth Ragland, Evangel Christian. Julie Dailey is Head Coach/Director Named AAU 15 and Under Classic Division All Americans were Hannah Kate Thompson, Shayla Williams and Olivia Dailey who was also named MVP. Madison Turner was named AAU 14 and Under Classic Division All American.

Members of the 2011 Alabama Boys All State Team include, from left, front: Robert Eckert, Mountain Brook; Carson May, Grissom; Jordan Howard, Vestavia; Chris Sterma, Spain Park; Walker Cox, Mountain Brook; Billy McMahon, John Carroll; Hunter Sexton, Vestavia; David Arnold, Hoover; Justin Kane, Spain Park and Juquan Tellis, Woodlawn. Back; Max Hines, Spain Park; Zach Burgess, Hoover; Mason Andrews, Vestavia; Stephen Walker, Hoover; Brandon Sly, Hoover; Stefan Pajaro-van de Stadt, Altamont; Charlie Lakin, Spain Park and Mikey McNeil, Grissom Not pictured: Nate Murphy, Grissom; Caleb Clark, Spain Park; Brandon Lowe, Hoover and Austin Luckie, Vestavia.

Grayson Long was awarded the TOP award for swimming at the Senior County Swim Meet. The ‘6 year old and under male high point’ trophy at the Jefferson Shelby Swim Council 2011 was presented in July. He won first place for the 25 breaststroke, 25 freestyle, and 25 backstroke events. Alaina Long was awarded the 4th place award for swimming at the Senior County Swim Meet. The ‘6 year old and under female fourth place point trophy’ at the Jefferson Shelby Swim Council 2011. She placed second in the 25 breaststroke, sixth in the 25 freestyle and second in the 25 backstroke events. The twins are the children of Dr. and Mrs. Gary Long and attend Cherokee Bend School. They swim for Pine Tree Country Club during the summer and The Birmingham Swim League.

from back cover

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David Link, US Lacrosse Alabama/ Mississippi Chapter President and Randy Nace, Vestavia Varsity Men’s Coach / US Lacrosse Coach of the Year.

Long Twins Awarded at JSSC Senior County Swim Meet

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Hunter Faulconer, GBYLA Executive Director and Albert Jordon, GBYLA Academic All American from Briarwood Christian School

had 10 kills, and Claire Gorman had 25 assists. The victory marked Spartan coach Chris Camper’s 400th career victory. Oak Mountain lost in the semifinals of the Juanita Boddie

Grayson Long, above left, received the male first place high point trophy and Alaina, above right, received the 4th place female high point award at the 6 and under JSSC Senior County Meet. They are the twins of Gary Long, former All- American Auburn swimmer. The Long twins follow behind older brother, Garrett, above center, who medaled at Senior County as well. Tournament’s Gold Division at Hewitt-Trussville. The Lady Eagles were eliminated by McGill-Toolen 25-13, 25-21. Oak Mountain opened the tournament with a 25-18, 25-21 loss to Huntsville but rebounded with a 28-26, 25-23 win over Hartselle and a 24-26, 26-24 and 25-19 win over Grissom.

Sophomore Hannah Beach picked up 29 assists and eight kills in the tournament for the Lady Eagles. Senior Abbie Bourque had 17 kills and 14 blocks. Emily Cosgrove had 11 blocks, 10 kills and seven assists, while senior Ashton Slawinski had 12 blocks. Junior Rosemary Wendel chipped in 20 assists.

OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL

Eagles,

from back cover “The biggest thing is being able to get in school and generate some interest,” Dunn said. “If we had five more guys, it would be pretty good and give me a better feel. “We have 30 kids walking the halls (at the school) who could be competing. We’re going to try getting some of them out of the halls and onto the football field.” While the challenge appears daunting, Dunn said he went through a similar situation at Sheridan Hills. In his first year there, he inherited a winless team and had only 16 players on the roster. Sheridan Hills proceeded to go 21-19 over the next four seasons with two playoff appearances. The team had only 10 returning players last year and struggled through a 2-8 season. “It was absolutely the same thing,” Dunn said when asked to compare his first season at Sheridan Hills with this year at Shades Mountain. “It took a couple of years to get them excited about the program. But in our second year we were in the playoffs, and the next year we were district champions.” In order to get the Eagles flying that high, Dunn will have to inject some life into the offense. Shades Mountain was shut out four times last season and topped 13 points in a game only once. In fact, the

Season, from back cover

thought they could win by just being tough and working hard,” said former Mountain Brook coach Robert Higginbotham. “Now everything is much more advanced. You show me a successful high school coach today, and I’ll show you a guy who is really smart.” Other OTM schools also worked to improve continuity with their feeder-school programs. I remember talking many years ago to an Over the Mountain coach, who constantly complained about the lack of cooperation he had from the coach at his feeder middle school. The coach said that every three years, he had to develop a new placekicker from scratch, because the middle school coach’s team never attempted field goals or even extra points. When his team scored a touchdown, it always went for a two-point conversion; when it faced a fourth down situation in the other team’s territory, the middle school team simply tried to make a first down. You’d never see a situation like that today. Another reason the other schools are gaining ground on Hoover is simply demographics. South Jefferson and North Shelby

THURSDAY, AUGUST 25, 2011 • 27

SPORTS

Eagles managed a total of only 13 points over the first six games combined. Dunn is turning the offense over to a sophomore, Mikey Rogers, who will play both quarterback and free safety. “We have only three seniors, so we wanted a young guy at quarterback who could take us into the future,” Dunn said. “He’s a natural athlete and he has a decent arm. He plays with confidence, but he has to grow into the position.” While Rogers develops, it might be up to senior running back Kyle Nation to fill the leadership role for the offense. The 5-8, 165pound Nation, who will also play linebacker on defense, has started the past two seasons and is one of the team’s most experienced players. “Kyle is an emotional leader,” Dunn said. “He has a small, squatty body, but he runs hard. He plays hard and doesn’t back down. He’ll fill in at quarterback when we go to the ‘wildcat’ (formation).” Nation will be joined in the backfield by junior J.P. Curren, who will also spend time at defensive back. Dunn said Curren “is a good athlete who runs hard, and he has good hands.” An inexperienced offensive line will be anchored by seniors Jack Spink (5-11, 190) and Caleb Burchfield (6-3, 190). Spink will also play linebacker, and Burchfield will be a defensive end. “They’re both big, tough, strong guys, and they also give us good leadership,” Dunn said.

The top targets among the receivers will be junior wideout Nick Wall (5-10, 150) and junior tight end Mitchell Anderson (6-3, 175). On defense, Wall will line up in the secondary, and Anderson will play defensive end. Dunn said Wall “is a good athlete with good hands, and he’s smart. He runs good routes. He’s not blazing fast, but he has aboveaverage speed.” He said Anderson “has good hands, good athleticism, and he’s a hard worker.” The defensive line is one of team’s biggest question marks, though Dunn said he has high hopes for sophomores Daniel Lindsey and Rowan Henderson. “They’re young and inexperienced, but they’re trying hard,” Dunn said. Trying hard might be the best Dunn can hope for from his team this season. The Eagles do get to play their first three games at home, giving the young players a chance to gain some valuable experience. But if Shades Mountain is unable to build any quality depth, the team might wear down during the ensuing stretch of four consecutive road games. “We’re not going in with a lot of expectations,” Dunn admitted. “It’s going to take a while for us to catch up. If I don’t see our (roster) numbers increase, then that’s a sign we’re doing something wrong. But if we come out encouraged about what we’re building for the future, I’ll be glad.

Counties are growing like wildfire, and not every quality high schoolage athlete can live in Hoover’s district. So the other schools are going to be the beneficiaries of the new influx of people and talent. Having said all that, the Bucs are still the team to beat in Class 6A’s Region 6. One of Hoover coach Josh Niblett’s prime accomplishments since taking the reins nearly four years ago has been keeping Buccaneer football on the sports page of the daily newspaper and off the front page. His calm, steady approach was just what the doctor ordered after the tumultuous final years of ultra-successful but highly-controversial coach Rush Propst. Hoover hasn’t been any slouch in the winning department either, as it has reached the 6A finals each season since Niblett took command. Expect Vestavia, Spain Park and Mountain Brook to be right on the Bucs’ heels. Hoover has to play all three of those region rivals on the road. It’s certainly possible that the Bucs could lose one of those games. It’s even possible they could lose two of them. There really doesn’t seem to be much to differentiate between the Rebels, Jaguars and Spartans. Vestavia and Mountain Brook are led by veteran coaches Buddy Anderson and Chris Yeager,

respectively, while Chip Lindsey takes over as the new man at Spain Park. Lindsey has already made an impact on the Jag program with his rapid development of quarterback Nick Mullens. Anderson and Yeager’s impact on area football requires no explanation. The impact of the region’s other new coach on the block will be interesting to watch. Doug Goodwin takes over at Homewood after highly successful tenures at Russellville and Demopolis. But Goodwin is smart enough to know that the opposition he faced at his previous schools won’t hold a candle to the foes he will face now, such as Hoover, Mountain Brook, Spain Park and Vestavia. Those four schools scored an average of almost 44 points a game against the Patriots last season, so Goodwin must shore up his defense if Homewood is going to be competitive. In Class 5A, Briarwood may well have its best team since Fred Yancey took over the program’s fortunes two decades ago. The Lions really look like a team without a weakness and would probably win a lot of games if they were in larger Class 6A. It will be an upset if Briarwood doesn’t win the Class 5A state championship. Those are just a few thoughts about the season ahead. Now, let’s play.

Shades Mtn. Christian 2011 Football Schedule

Date

Opponent

Aug. 26

Parkway Christian HOME Pickens County HOME Autaugaville HOME Maplesville Away Thorsby Away Holy Spirit Away Sunshine Away Keith HOME John Essex Away Isabel HOME

Sept. 2 Sept. 9 Sept. 16 Sept. 23 Sept. 30 Oct. 7 Oct. 14 Oct. 21 Oct. 28

“I feel like I’m still playing catch-up with the coaches and with the players. We’re young, and it’s going to be a long process. But I think we can be a great 1A program.” Members of the 2011 Shades Mountain Christian varsity football team include: Austin

Location

Patterson, Caleb Burchfield, Cody Wheeler, Daniel Lindsey, Harrison Boozer, Harrison Johnson, Jake Brockway, Joel Musgrove, John Patrick Curren, John Spink, Joseph Anderson, Kyle Nation, Mikey Rogers, Nicholas Wall, Peyton Erwin, Rowan Henderson, Solomon Earnest, Tyler Allen and William Parker.

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OVER THE MOUNTAIN

JOU RNAL THURSDAY, AUGUST 25, 2011

Sports

Early Warnings

2011 OTM HIGH SCHOOL FOOTBALL PREVIEW 24-PAGE SPECIAL SECTION INSIDE

Briarwood and Vestavia Win In Pre-Season Play, Spartans Tie BY LEE DAVIS

JOURNAL SPORTS WRITER

riarwood is the pre-season favorite to win the Class 5A football state championship. On Friday night, the Lions showed John Carroll Catholic why they are so highly-regarded. Briarwood ripped the Cavaliers 33-7 in pre-season jamboree action at Vestavia Hills’ Thompson Reynolds Stadium. Making the win even more impressive was the fact that Ben Craft, the Lions’ starting quarterback, saw limited playing time, as Briarwood dominated from almost the very beginning. Early in the game, Chad Davis intercepted a John Carroll pass to give the Lions their first scoring opportunity. Craft’s five-yard touchdown pass to Coleman Pearson gave Briarwood a 7-0 lead. The Cavs struck back quickly, however, when quarterback Johnny Boohaker connected with Trevor Brooks on a 65-yard scoring bomb to deadlock the game at 7-7. Lion coach Fred Yancey decided to experiment by using star running back Matthew Furuto as quarterback, and the gamble paid off. Furuto passed to Keaton Russell for a 13-yard touchdown. Before the first quarter ended, Craft and Briarwood struck again.

This time Craft passed 27 yards to Furuto for a touchdown. In the second quarter, senior Jonathan Stapleton stepped in as the Lions’ quarterback. He tossed two touchdown passes of five and three yards respectively to William Rutledge III. “We wanted to come out and see how we would run our offense in actual game-type situations,” said Craft. “We (the starters) didn’t play a lot, but I think we came out and did what we wanted to do.” In later jamboree action on the same field, host Vestavia edged Fairfield 10-6. Rebel tailback Georgie Salem gave his team an early lead with a 50-yard touchdown run. The Tigers’ Kevin Williams answered Salem’s efforts with a 95-yard touchdown dash. Fairfield missed the conversion, so Vestavia Vestavia linebacker David D’Amico, (49) brings down a Fairfield runner clung to a 7-6 advantage. in the Rebels’ jamboree win over the Tigers, 10-6. Ryan Raspino’s 42-yard field Journal photo by Lee Walls, Jr. goal added insurance points for the Rebels. Aldag ended the evening with 24, 25-22. On the previous night, Mountain seven completions in 15 attempts Avery Hoven led the Lady Bucs Brook tied Minor 7-7 in a two for 89 yards and a touchdown. with 10 kills, while Sarah Byrd quarter varsity jamboree game at Doss caught four of his passes for had five kills and 18 digs. Anna Spartan Stadium. Sanford had five blocks. 72 yards. Mountain Brook earned the tie For Vestavia, Kathryn Payne Volleyball Action despite keeping its top running had 12 kills, and Lena Barrett While area football teams backs on the sidelines during the added seven. Abbie Kraus chipped put on their final coats of polish contest. The Spartans’ only score in 34 digs. came on quarterback Ed Aldag’s before the season began, volleyMountain Brook dominated ball opened in earnest last week. 41-yard strike to Coates Doss. Clay-Chalkville with a 25-15, 25On Thursday, Hoover lost its Minor evened the score when 14, 25-9 win. Greer Cunningham Johnathon Thompson ran 37 yards first set but rebounded to defeat Vestavia Hills 19-25, 27-25, 26for a touchdown. See Weekend, page 26

SHADES MOUNTAIN CHRISTIAN

A Dunn Deal

New Coach Hopes to Help Eagles Soar BY CARY ESTES

JOURNAL SPORTS WRITER

oel Dunn has been at Shades Mountain Christian less than two months, but he has already identified quite a few talented football players at the school. The problem is, a lot of them are not on the football field. The Eagles are going through a major transition following last year’s 0-10 season. Dunn arrived during the offseason from Sheridan Hills Christian in Florida to become Shades Mountain’s new head coach and athletic director.

Last year’s head coach, Jonathan Loudermilk, remains on the staff as the team’s defensive coordinator. The winless season of 2010 has led to a depleted roster in 2011. When the Eagles began preseason workouts, they did not even have enough players to practice 11-on11. As of mid-August there were only 19 names listed on the roster, and that included three eighth graders. Dunn said he hoped to increase the roster size before the season began.

See Eagles, page 27

Shades Mountain Christian hopes to have a breakout year in 2011. Senior running back Kyle Nation, (2) is a key player to watch on both Journal file photo offense and defense for the Eagles.

Lee Davis

Mind Stream: Just Some Random Thoughts As Season Begins

y the time most people read this column, the 2011 high school football season will be just days – or perhaps only hours – away. At this point, almost every pre-season analysis or prediction has been said or written. So now all we can do is wait until games are actually played to comment again. Or is it? Believe it or not, there’s time for one more last piece of preseason commentary. This isn’t necessarily based on research or even logic, just some general gut feelings I have as the season begins. For starters, I sense that there is a shift – perhaps ever so slight – in the balance of power for Over the Mountain football. Please don’t read too much into this: Hoover will continue to be one of Alabama’s top programs, and the Bucs have an excellent chance of winning yet another state 6A championship. But the talent gap Hoover has enjoyed over other area schools over the past decade is beginning to narrow. There are lots of reasons for this, but the biggest one is the most obvious of all: Other Over the Mountain teams simply became tired of losing to Hoover so frequently. Try to remember the last Over the Mountain team – besides archrival Vestavia Hills – to defeat the Bucs on the field. You have to go back a long time. Because of Hoover, the other programs – most of which were solid from the beginning – stepped up their efforts even more by hiring top coaches and installing more sophisticated offenses and defenses. “When I first started coaching in the 1970s, most coaches

See Season, page 27