Otmj Thursday, November 5, 2015
over the mountain journal ❖ otmj.com
social
sports
Journal photo by Kaitlin Candelaria
beyond the kitchen
At a Cooks On A Mission session to prep Thanksgiving food in the kitchen at Mountain Brook Baptist Church are front, from left: Kim Hardwick, Aimee Turner, Lisa Elliott and Karen Abel. Back: Erin Futch, Jane Hauth, Sherrie Futch and Joann Stramaglia.
By Donna Cornelius Food and church go together like peanut butter and
jelly–especially in the South. Sunday school classes take food to the sick and bereaved. Congregations gather for bountiful fellowship meals. Women’s groups automatically think “let’s do a cookbook” when the organ fund needs a little bolstering. At Mountain Brook Baptist Church, one group takes cooking to another level of service. The women who make
Cooks On A Mission’s Work Feeds the Body and the Soul up Cooks On A Mission know their way around a kitchen – but their ministry doesn’t stop there. Cooks On A Mission includes about a dozen women. While eight of them are involved week in and week out, others participate when they’re able, including some who are college students.
Cooks On A Mission member Sherrie Futch said the group started about three years ago. “The first thing we did was Backpack Buddies,” Futch said. “It’s all over the county; we do it at Helena Intermediate School. A counselor identifies children who are at risk for being hungry over the weekend. We provide a bag full of food for these kids.” Futch said her group got involved with the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit at the UAB Women and Infants’ Center
See cooks, page 35
inside
Duty Calls New ministry reaches out to those who served. Veteran’s day Page 15
‘in Heaven celebrating’ Mountain Brook teen passes away after cancer battle. opinion Page 2
Guide To Winning Spartans sweep McGill to earn second state volleyball championship. sports Page 40
2 • Thursday, November 5, 2015
Opinion/Contents
Mountain Brook Teen Passes Away After Cancer Battle
in this issue About Town 4 people 8 news 12 veteran’s day 15 social 16
weddings 23 home 28 Food 33 schools 36 sports 40
murphy’s law
Head’s up. It’s Fall.
Journal file photo by Kaitlin Candelaria
After battling a rare form of bone cancer for more than a year, Mountain Brook teenager Sid Ortis passed away on Oct. 31. The 16-year-old Mountain Brook High School student was diagnosed with osteosarcoma last summer after complaining of knee pain. Since then, his courage and faith have inspired people all over the country, including LSU football coach Les Miles. In early 2015, the Mountain Brook community showed its support for the Ortis family by hanging purple and yellow ribbons, the colors of Sid’s favorite college football team, the LSU Tigers. Word circulated on social media, and before long Sid was taking phone calls from the national titlewinning coach at home. Sid’s journey continued to inspire people, especially in the Mountain Brook community. In April, Crestline merchants donated more than $20,000 to the Alabama Center for Childhood Cancer and Blood Disorders at Children’s of Alabama using money they raised during a Crestline Family Night event they held in April in honor of Sid. The Mountain Brook Junior High baseball team followed with a $54,000 donation of its own, raised through a Strike Out Cancer fundraiser in honor of Sid. Throughout his battle, Sid was known for his faithfulness to God. On Oct. 19, the teen tweeted, “I’ve been told officially I only have a few weeks to live. I just want to thank everybody for the support I’ve gotten through this fight. It’s been a hard and painful fight. It isn’t over though until God says it’s over.” He spent his final days at his home in Mountain Brook surrounded by family and friends. In October, hundreds of members of the community surrounded the Ortis home, held hands and prayed over the family. His mother posted on Facebook on the morning of Oct. 31, “Today around 7:24 a.m., Sid won his race and is in Heaven celebrating. We are so proud of our son for not getting bitter, living life, trusting Jesus until the end. Please pray for us as we learn to live without him.” ❖
OVER THE MOUNTAIN Journal
cheeks, and why should they, anyway? There’s a huge, beautiful oak tree Both the squirrels and the chipmunks in my backyard. It sits right next to have free access to the sunflower seeds my deck and provides us with cooling in the birdfeeders. shade and seasonal color. I love it, I I’ve heard that deer sometimes do, but this is the time of year when eat acorns, but I have a tall fence and the tree gets a little cranky. the deer would rather eat my pansies, It’s tired. I get that. It’s been bufanyway. I read somewhere that some feted by winds, pelted with rain. Birds pigs root around after acorns, but I and squirrels have been climbing all don’t know any pigs firsthand, and over the branches with blatant disrethere’s probably a neighborhood statgard. The tree has been a good sport ute against owning one, so that’s no lo these many months, but now the help at all. poor dear needs a vacation. You can It will all work out. Some acorns almost see it breathe a sigh of relief as will be swept up in the fallen leaves. each leaf falls to the ground. I suspect, Some will drop into the fake pond. A however, that there is pent up anger Sue Murphy choice few will snuggle down into the tucked away somewhere because her soil and sleep for the winter, emergacorns are coming at us like BB We call it the attack of ing next spring as hopeful seedlings. shot. They do not fall; they do not cascade; they seem to be jettisoned the killer acorns. And Of course, I’ll go right out there and them up. Poor little guys. It’s off the branches with intentional there are lots of them, yank a numbers game and they were the force. lots and lots, piling up winners and still they lose. I feel These acorns are big, better and an inch long and when they fall, daily among the rem- terrible about it, but unless I want to into logging, (There’s probably they make quite an impression – nants of last season’s go a neighborhood statute about that, literally. They’re heavy enough to cedar bark. too.) I have no other choice. put pockmarks in a windshield if we If the squirrels would just make were silly enough to park one withacorns part of their diet I wouldn’t in range. We learned that the hard have to be such a killjoy. So what way and so did our dear departed if acorns are not their favorite? I don’t like kale but dog Freeway, who got beaned several times before figevery once in a while I force it down for the sake of my uring out that she needed to take her naps closer to the health. I’ll bet acorns have squirrel-type vitamins and house. minerals. If each squirrel would eat one acorn each day We call it the attack of the killer acorns. And there and save the sunflower seeds for dessert, nothing would are lots of them, lots and lots, piling up daily among go to waste. the remnants of last season’s cedar bark. Does the tree care either way? No. She’s Sadly, my squirrels don’t want any part of just happy to be shed of them. Like a pair them. Maybe being so brawny these acorns of pinchy shoes, she’s flinging off what’s are like a tough piece of meat. Maybe left of 2015 and settling in for a little they have a gamey aftertaste. Whatever arboreal shut-eye. I get that. Get some it is, my squirrels are passing on them, rest, sweetie. The sap will be rising soon thank you very much. They’re almost enough. ❖ too big for the chipmunks to tuck in their
On otmj.com
There’s so much happening in the Over the Mountain area, we can’t fit it all in the paper! Visit www.otmj.com for more stories and photos.
OVER THE MOUNTAIN
J O U R N A L November 5, 2015 Publisher & Editor: Maury Wald Copy Editor: Virginia Martin Features Writer: Donna Cornelius Staff Writers: Kaitlin Candelaria, Emily Williams Editorial Assistant: Stacie Galbraith Sports: Lee Davis Contributors: Susan Murphy, June Mathews, William C. Singleton III, Emil Wald, Marvin Gentry, Lee Walls Jr., Bryan Bunch Advertising Sales: Suzanne Wald, Julie Trammell Edwards, Tommy Wald Vol. 25, No. 21
Over The Mountain Journal is a suburban bi-weekly newspaper delivered to Mountain Brook, Homewood, Vestavia Hills, Hoover and North Shelby County areas. Subscriptions for The Journal are available for $24 yearly. Mail to: Over the Mountain Journal, P.O. Box 660502, Vestavia Hills, AL 35216. Phone: (205) 823-9646. E-mail the editorial department at editorial@otmj.com. E-mail our advertising department at ads@otmj.com. Find us on the Web at otmj.com. Copyright 2015 Over The Mountain Journal, Inc. All rights reserved. The Journal is not responsible for return of photos, copy and other unsolicited materials submitted. To have materials returned, please specify when submitting and provide a stamped, self-addressed envelope. All materials submitted are subject to editorial review and may be edited or declined without notification.
over the Mountain Views
What’s your favorite Thanksgiving food?
“Dressing is so good. I crave it in other seasons!”
“Green bean casserole because it’s awesome.”
Dierra Spidell Birmingham
Frank Sanders Birmingham
“Macaroni and cheese because it goes with everything.” Dachelle McElrath Birmingham
“Dressing--I look forward to it every year!” Diane Springfield Birmingham
OVER THE MOUNTAIN Journal
Located on Hwy 280, east of I-459
About Town
Thursday, November 5, 2015 • 3
GrandviewHealth.com
4 • Thursday, November 5, 2015
About Town
OVER THE MOUNTAIN Journal
nov. 5 - Nov. 18 Thurs., Nov. 5
Photo special to the Journal
VESTAVIA HILLS
Sherri Van Pelt will return to the Moss Rock Festival Nov. 7-8 at The Preserve in Hoover to show her glasswork and will be joined by other local eco-creative artists.
Glass Half Full Artists Return to The Preserve for Annual Arts Festival
By Emily Williams Local artist Sherri Van Pelt will be returning to the Moss Rock Festival for the fourth year showing and selling her intricate glasswork. The tenth Eco-Creative Festival will take over The Preserve in Hoover on Nov. 7 and 8. “I love the beautiful venue at The Preserve and the family-friendly environment,” Van Pelt said. “For me, Moss Rock Festival is the official kick-off of fall and the holiday season. I have We are Free to be Fancy my fingers crossed for a beautiful fall weekend this year.” because we are protected by our Leaf and Petal Van Pelt began working with glass heroes who thefaxuniform. Over The Mountain Journal, phonewear 205-823-9646, 205-824-1246 in 2010, creating colorful pieces that can be both functional such as bowls October help us give back to them this and This is yourVeteran's aD PrOOF from Day, the Over The MOunTain JOurnaL for thevases or put on display in the form Wednesday, of october 22, 2015 issue. Please fax approval or changes to 824-1246. art panels. November 11th. “I have always been fascinated by the beauty of glass and the dance Please make sure all information is correct, between glass and light,” she said. “I am attracted to working with glass including address and phone number! because of the endless possibilities that can be created with color, heat, gravity, Please initial and fax back within 24 hours.
texture and form.” Van Pelt said she has come to think of her artwork as “happy glass” because of the positive reactions from guests who attend her shows. Her work continues to evolve, and her favorite process is combining and layering to create intricate complexities in the glass. Van Pelt said her favorite thing about the festival is having the opportunity to chat with other artists, talk with people who return every year to see her work and watch families and friends enjoy the outdoors. She said the food trucks don’t hurt either. The festival will be open from 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Nov. 7, and from 10 a.m.4 p.m. Nov. 8. The event will include music, green living ideas, constructions and installations, hiking, biking and geocaching as well as displays from 100 artists. Parking will be available at the Hoover Met and a complimentary shuttle will take people to and from the festival. For more information, visit www. mossrockfestival.com. ❖
if we have not heard from you by 5 pm of the Friday before the press date, your ad will run as is. We print the paper Monday.
Thank you for your prompt attention.
Holiday Market Shades Mountain Baptist Church The church will host a holiday gift sale from 10 a.m.-8 p.m. featuring products from vendors who support a variety of ministries. Tickets are $5 and benefit the Shades Orphan Care Ministry. For more information, visit www.shades.org/gifted or call 822-1670. BIRMINGHAM
Birmingham Art Crawl Downtown Birmingham The art showcase stretches across the historic arts, loft and theatre districts. The event is free and will include works by more than 40 local artists from 5-9 p.m. For more information, visit www. birminghamartcrawl.com or call 7900096.
Nov. 5-15
BIRMINGHAM
Calendar Girls Virginia Samford Theatre Based on the movie made famous by Helen Mirren, VST will perform this play and donate a portion of ticket sales to a local cancer foundation. Tickets begin at $28. Performances will take place at 7:30 p.m. WednesdaysSaturdays and Sundays at 2:30 p.m. For more information, visit www. virginiasamfordtheatre.org or call 2511206.
Fri., Nov. 6
VESTAVIA HILLS
Holiday Market Town Village Retirement Community From 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Town Village will host a sale featuring holiday gift items. The event is free and open to the public. For more information, visit www. townvillagevestaviahills.com or call 9792702.
Nov. 6-8
BIRMINGHAM
My Son Pinocchio Jr. RMTC Cabaret Theatre Red Mountain Theatre Company will perform a family-friendly musical suitable for all ages. Tickets for the show are $12 for adults and $10 for children ages 12 and under. There will be a show at 7:30 p.m. Nov. 6, shows at 2 p.m. and 7:30 p.m. Nov. 7 and one show at 2 p.m. Nov. 8. For more information, visit www. redmoutnaintheatre.org or call 3242424.
Sat., Nov. 7
HOOVER
Buy our Duke Cannon Supply Co. soap for men and we will donate a portion of our proceeds to Lima Foxtrot at Lakeshore Foundation.
Fancy Goods Variety 978-1451
2512 Rocky Ridge Road, Suite 102, Vestavia Hills
619 Mont. Hwy, Vestavia Hills • 979-5611 www.jewelsbyrose.net
Walking to Remember Riverchase Galleria Alzheimer’s of Central Alabama will host its annual three-mile indoor walk, benefitting ACA programs and services. Registration opens at 7:30 a.m. The event will include refreshments, face painting and music from the Vestavia Hills High School Jazz Band. For more information, visit www.alzca.org or call 871-7970.
Sun., Nov. 8 MOUNTAIN BROOK
Journal photo by Julie Edwards
Celebrate Hope House of Hope for Women The House of Hope is currently celebrating five years of ministry. From 12:30-3 p.m., the organization will host a block party complete with Full Moon BBQ, Magic City Sweet Ice, Steel City Pops, face painting, a bouncy house, a silent auction and more. Visit www. houseofhopeforwomen.org or call 6391360.
Thursday, November 5, 2015 • 5
About Town
OVER THE MOUNTAIN Journal
Mon., Nov. 9 MOUNTAIN BROOK
Fashions for the Foundation Grand Bohemian Hotel The Shaeffer Eye Center Fashions for the Foundation, benefitting the Mountain Brook Schools Foundation, will begin at 11:30 a.m. Mountain Brook teachers, students, administrators and parents will model clothing provided by local stores. Individual tickets are $100. Visit www.mtnbrookschoolsfoundation. com or call 414-0042.
Thurs., Nov. 12 HOOVER
Annual Fashion Show Hoover Country Club The Hoover Service Club will host its annual fashion show beginning at 10:30 a.m. Lunch will be available for $18 following the show. Reservations are required. For more information, visit www.hooverserviceclub.com or call 9795699.
NORTH SHELBY
Hilltop on the Green Hilltop Montessori School This annual gala will begin at 6 p.m. The event will include a seated dinner, cocktails and a silent auction. Jack Granger of Granger, Thagard and
Associates will serve as auctioneer for a live auction. Tickets are $125 and proceeds will benefit the school. For more information, visit www. hilltopmontessori.com or call 790-8325.
2253 Chapel road Completely Redone, Inside and Out, and Ready For You! Spacious Home & Great Lot. You Will Fall in Love. HOMEWOOD
Edgewood Open House Downtown Edgewood The second annual open house event includes “A Little Taste of Edgewood” and will feature culinary samples from local Edgewood and West Homewood eateries, coldpressed juices, mini spa services, up to 40 percent off sale prices and more. The event will take place Nov. 11 from 11 a.m.-7 p.m. ❖
From left: Brad Cook, Edgewood Creamery; Kami and Dee Compton, On Top Embroidery; Faye Wolfe, Sprout Flower Market; Ben Cornelius, AllState; Carrie Holley, Escape Day Spa; Chris Collins with dog Bear, Homewood Antiques; David and Wani Shaw, Magic City Ice; Joe Resha, JoJo’s Gastro Pub and Gracie Chapman and Katie Copeland, Escape Day Spa.
For more information go to JamesHarwell.com
James Harwell
President, Bham Assoc. of Realtors
Over the Mountain Office 1220 Alford Avenue • 205.281.4731
To: From: Date:
James Over The Mountain Journal, 205-823-9646 ph., 205-824-1246, fax October
This is your ad proof from the over the mountain Journal for the november 5, 2015 issue. Please contact your sales representative as soon as possible to approve your ad or make changes. You may fax approval or changes to 824-1246.
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please initial and fax back within 24 hours.
If we have not heard from you by 5 pm of the Friday before the press date, your ad will run as is. We print the paper Monday.
Thank you for your prompt attention.
Monday-Friday 9:30-6:30 • Saturday 9:30-5:30 • Sunday 12:00-5:00 in November & December 2830 18th Street South • Homewood, AL 35209 • 205.879.3986. • HomewoodToy-Hobby.com
6 • Thursday, November 5, 2015
About Town
OVER THE MOUNTAIN Journal
DISCOVER THE MANY REASONS HOMEOWNERS ARE GIVING THANKS THIS
holiday season.
VESTAVIA HILLS
Holiday Market St. Mark UMC The women of Saint Mark United Methodist Church will hold a holiday market Nov. 14 from 9 a.m.-1 p.m. featuring handmade items, sweets, collectibles and more. Proceeds from the sale will benefit church outreach and local projects. For more information, visit www.saintmarkumc.org or call 8225980. ❖
Proudly keeping homes cleaner and healthier since 1987
205-871-9338
BIRMINGHAM
Taste of Triumph Iron City This wine and beer tasting benefits Triumph Services, a non-profit organization that provides services for adults with developmental disabilities. The event begins at 5:30 p.m. and includes music by Jimmy and Laine, live and silent auctions and heavy hors d’oeuvres. Tickets are $60 per person or $100 per couple. For more information, visit www.triumphservices.org or call 581-1000.
www.MAIDS.com
Referred for a reason.
AV
BIRMINGHAM
A Night with Andrea Gibson B&A Warehouse The Change Project and the Magic City Acceptance Center will host an event featuring poet Andrea Gibson. Doors will open at 6:45 p.m. and the event begins at 7:30 p.m. Tickets are $20 per individual and student tickets are $15. For more information, visit www.embodyprogress.org.
Nov. 12-14 BIRMINGHAM
Fall Into Folklife Birmingham Museum of Art The Alabama Folklife’s Association
will present a symposium and expo. The event will begin with a 5:30 p.m. reception Nov. 12 with a blues lecture and concert at the Alabama Jazz Hall of Fame. Tickets are $20. Nov. 13 will include free presentations (registration required) throughout the day followed by a Jazz It Up reception at The Tutwiler Hotel. Tickets are $15 per person. The weekend will end with a free expo at The Market at Pepper Place from 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Nov. 14. For more information, visit www.artsbma.org or call 956-9888.
Fri., Nov. 13 HOMEWOOD
Camilla Pecan Sale Piggly Wiggly The Homewood Metro Lions club will hold their annual sale from 10 a.m.-5 p.m. in front of the Piggly Wiggly on Highway 31. The club will be selling 12-ounce bags of pecans for an $8 donation and the proceeds will benefit the Alabama Lions Sight Association, Camp Seale Harris, Leader Dog for the Blind, Southeastern Guide Dog, Alabama Lions Eyeglasses Recycling program and the Alabama Lions Hearing Aid Recycling program.
St. Rose Academy Director of Institutional Advancement
St. Rose Academy, a private, Catholic elementary school in Birmingham, AL is seeking to fill the full-time position of Director of Institutional Advancement beginning January 2016.
2116 2nd Avenue North • (205) 251-3381 www.levysfinejewelry.com
_LEVYS2015catalog09wt.indd 1
Candidates must have a marketing or communications degree and previous experience with fundraising. Experience using Raisers’ Edge data base preferable. 10/30/15 10:43 AM
Please email resume and cover letter to: Sister Mary Elizabeth, O.P. smelizabeth@saintroseacademyop.com
From left: Joan Purse, Barbara Randle, Peggy Patterson, Beth Hamer, Judy Wiseman, Cathy Cannady, Dee Burr and Karen Harrison.
VESTAVIA HILLS
Magical Marketplace Vestavia Hills UMC The church will hold a Christmas gift sale from 9 a.m.-4 p.m. in both the Tyson and Fellowship halls. For more information, visit www.vhumc.org or call 822-9631.
Sat., Nov. 14 HOMEWOOD/mountain Brook
Salvation Army Angel Tree Program Brookwood Village Brookwood Village will be launching the holiday season and its Angel Tree program by distributing halos and angel wing lapel pins to children. Janet Hall will serve as the celebrity bell ringer and Chick-fil-A cows will be on hand for photo opportunities. Santa will kick off the program by introducing the Angel Tree and then will be available for photos. Event begins at 10 a.m. BIRMINGHAM
Dirt Dash Birmingham Botanical Gardens The junior board of the Birmingham Botanical Gardens will host the fourth annual 5K fun run and walk beginning at 8:30 a.m. Entries for the 5K received prior to Nov. 13 will be $30 and those registered after will be $40. Proceeds benefit the Gardens’ educational programs. For more information, visit www.bbgardens.org/funrun or call 4143950. HOMEWOOD
Hope for the Holidays Trinity UMC Community Grief Support Clinical Director Steve Sweatt will hold a free community grief support program geared towards persons who have experienced the death of a loved one and are dreading the upcoming holiday season. The program will be held from 9 a.m.-noon and will include a light meal. Reservations are encouraged. For more information, call 870-8667. ❖ For more About Town go to: www.otmj.com
Thursday, November 5, 2015 • 7
About Town
OVER THE MOUNTAIN Journal
Calendar of Events Small Business Saturday November 21
Breakfast with Santa December 12
Kick-off your holiday shopping with great deals from our local merchants! The Chamber of Commerce will be stationed at different locations throughout the city to give out merchant lists so you can plan where to visit. Goody bags filled with coupons and promotional items from our merchants will be given to the first 50 people at each location. Visit www.vestaviahills.org for more information
Vestavia Hills Civic Center, 7:30-10:00 am 1975 Merryvale Road Enjoy a pancake breakfast and visit with Santa! $1 Suggested Donation
Tree Lighting Festival December 1 Vestavia Hills City Hall, 6:00 pm 1032 Montgomery Highway Enjoy entertainment, merchant give-aways and the lighting of the tree. Visit with Santa and play in the snow!
Vestavia Hills Christmas Parade & Celebration December 13 Liberty Park Sports Complex to Alston Meadows 2:00-4:00 pm Enjoy the city’s official parade followed by the Liberty Park Christmas Celebration with children’s activities, refreshments, live entertainment, visit with Santa & more!
Visit www.vestaviahills.org for an extended list of events Presented by the City of Vestavia Hills & the Vestavia Hills Chamber of Commerce
Alabama Real Estate Investors Association Alliance Publishing Group-Vestavia Hills Living America’s First Federal Credit Union Annabelle’s/Vestavia Apothecary Artists Incorporated Gallery Ascend Web Development BB&T Birmingham School of Music Bruster’s Real Ice Cream Butler Snow Cahaba Fitness Cellular Sales of Verizon Wireless Collage Designer Consignment CORE, A Pilates & Cycling Studio First Partners Bank
Gold’s Gym Jackson, Howard & Whatley, CPAs Jimmie Hale Mission John Henley State Farm Insurance Liberty Park Joint Venture Mary Kay Cosmetics-Susie Serio Oliver Square OnTime Service Regions Bank Snapper Grabbers Spectrum Reach Stein Mart Summit Express Urgent Care Vestavia Voice Xceligent
8 • Thursday, November 5, 2015
people
OVER THE MOUNTAIN Journal
Photo courtesy of NBAE/Getty Images
Mountain Brook’s Summersell Earns Eagle Scout Rank
From left: A Hornet Honeybee, Dr. Stephen Gould, Dr. Sara Gould and Dr. David Gregorius are a just a few of the many people who traveled with the Charlotte Hornets and the LA Clippers for two global exhibition games.
Courtside Care
Birmingham Doctor Travels to China With NBA By Kaitlin Candelaria
FEATURING GUEEST ARTIST FROM THE AROVA CONTEMPORARY BALLET VICTORIA BENNETT, JAMIE KILGORE FOUST, AND JAMORRIS RIVERS ARTISTIC DIRECTOR, JAMORRIS RIVERS
DECEMBER 4-6
Dec. 4 - 7pm | Dec. 5 - 2pm & 7pm | Dec. 6 - 2pm
LOCATION
Tyson Theatre - Vestavia Hills United Methodist Church 2061 Kentucky Ave., Birmingham, AL 35216
TICKETS: $15 General Admission | $25 Preferred Seating Available online at www.magiccitynutcracker.org
CONTACT
magiccitynutcracker@gmail.com or Kelly Avery at 205.769.0140
Sara Gould’s first exposure to sports medicine wasn’t necessarily a good one. The former cross-country runner had to end her college running career after finding out she had stress fractures. “That was my first experience and it was terrible,” she said, laughing. “But after the doctor told me I couldn’t run for the rest of the season, he said I could come shadow him anytime I wanted. That kind of peaked my interest.” Now a sports medicine and emergency room physician, Gould moved to Birmingham with her husband two years ago. When she’s not juggling her concussion clinic at Children’s of Alabama, working in the emergency room at UAB Hospital or spending time with her toddler, Gould moonlights as a traveling sports medicine physician for the NBA. “Every year, the NBA does global exhibition games,” Gould explained. She began working with the organization while completing her residency in New York City. Since then, she’s had the opportunity to travel with the NBA all over the world. “Getting to work with athletes at that level is phenomenal,” Gould said. “I never thought I would be working with an organization like the NBA.” Gould and her husband, an orthopedic surgeon at UAB, recently traveled to China with the organization for two global exhibition games. According to Gould, China’s NBA market is astounding. “It’s a really big deal and it’s exciting,” Gould said. “There’s a lot of energy around it because there are so many crazy fans.” The exhibition included a game between the Charlotte Hornets and the Los Angeles Clippers, and the trip included both teams dancers, trainers, mascots and more. Serving that many people isn’t without its challenges. “If everybody’s really healthy, you can do nothing, but unfortunately that
never happens because everybody is jetlagged and working around the clock,” Gould said. “It’s really exciting and it’s really important to everyone to do this because we’re promoting NBA internationally and this may be a fan’s first exposure to the NBA. Everybody wants it to be a good experience and everybody is burning the candle at both ends.” Gould said she begins preparing for these types of trips by traveling to the country months in advance to scout out hospitals and strategize treatment plans. “Healthcare standards are really different in China than they are here, so we’re trying to work around that,”
‘Getting to work with athletes at that level is phenomenal. I never thought I would be working with an organization like the NBA.’ she said. “Also, any time you’re working with someone who’s high profile, it’s difficult to maintain their privacy. Things like HIPPA don’t exist in China.” Gould said that, although the experiences include a lot of moving pieces, it’s ultimately a lot of fun. “It was fun and challenging to get all the logistics squared away,” she said. “But fortunately we have a lot of experience doing this, so it really falls together pretty easily when we’re in the markets.” Although Gould says she loves the NBA and enjoys her yearly stints as the courtside doctor, she won’t be leaving Birmingham anytime soon. “Most of what I do on a day-to-day basis is working with high school kids and elementary school kids who get hurt playing club soccer or on the playground, and that’s really the best part of my job,” she said. “The NBA is a lot of glitz and glamour and it’s really cool, but it’s the day-to-day stuff that you really have to love.” ❖
Cole Harrington Summersell of Mountain Brook has earned the Eagle Scout award and will be recognized in ceremonies on Dec. 13 at St. Luke’s Episcopal Church. A member of Troop 86, Summersell is among approximately 4 percent of all Boy Scouts who attain the Eagle rank, according to Scoutmaster David Millhouse. Cole Summersell Each candidate must earn 21 merit badges and successfully complete a community-, church- or synagogue-related service project to earn the award. For his project, Summersell chose to build warehouse shelving for Magic City Harvest. Summersell joins other outstanding American citizens who have become Eagle Scouts, among them former President Gerald R. Ford, Jr., astronaut Neil A. Armstrong and former U.S. Secretary of Defense Donald Rumsfeld. Summersell has held leadership roles in Troop 86, including the position of senior patrol leader, and participated in a week-long high adventure sailing excursion at Florida Sea Base. A senior at Mountain Brook High School, Summersell is a member of the cross country and track teams. He is a member of the National Honor Society and is a National Merit Scholar semifinalist. Summersell is a member of St. Luke’s Episcopal Church. He is the son of Trip and Margaret Summersell of Mountain Brook and his grandfather, Dr. William H. Dodson of Mountain Brook, also is an Eagle Scout.
DuBose of Troop 28 Earns Eagle Scout Rank David Raines DuBose Jr., a member of Boy Scout Troop 28, recently received the rank of Eagle Scout at a court of honor ceremony Oct. 5 at Independent Presbyterian Church. DuBose’s scouting career began in first grade as a Tiger Cub at Vestavia Hills United Methodist Church in Den 7 of Pack 352. David DuBose During that time, he took first place at the Pinewood Derby race and second place in the Raingutter Regatta. After attaining the Arrow of Light, he joined Troop 28 under Scoutmaster Allen Sydnor. As a member of Troop 28, DuBose held a number of leadership roles and earned 33 merit badges. He logged 84 camping nights and 117 service hours. In 2013 and 2014, he attended Philmont Scout Ranch in Cimarron, New Mexico,
completing the High Adventure Philmont Trek and logging more than 200 miles. He was a member of the Sea Base Adventure Crew, located in Abacos, Bahamas, in 2014. DuBose also spent two summers at Camp Parsons hiking Mt. Rainier. For his Eagle Scout project, DuBose re-landscaped the front entrance of the Children’s Fresh Air Farm in Bluff Park. Over the course of four months, scouts removed overgrowth and invasive vegetation and reforested the area with 22 native oak, maple and pine trees. With the surplus of project funds, DuBose donated $950 to the CFAF. A junior at Briarwood Christian High School, DuBose has participated on the football, cross country, track and field, and lacrosse teams. He is a member of the National Honor Society, political club and Japanese club. He is also an active member of IPC. He is the son of Mr. and Dr. David DuBose of Vestavia Hills and grandson of Mrs. Gay Nell Albert of Birmingham and Mrs. F.R. DuBose and the late Mr. F.R. DuBose of Montgomery.
Dawson’s New Book Chronicles Prison Ministry
Thursday, November 5, 2015 • 9
people
OVER THE MOUNTAIN Journal
To purchase a copy of Dawson’s new book, visit www.createspace. com/5688153.
Briarwood Christian Student Earns Girl Scout Gold Award Hannah Marlow, a senior at Briarwood Christian School, recently was awarded the Girl Scout Gold Award. The award, which is the highest achievement for Girl Scouts, is earned through a leadership project totaling at least 65 hours.
Marlow earned the honor with a project titled “Blessings Both.” She hosted a drive for soccer equipment to donate to soccer players in Birmingham Hannah Marlow and Belo Horizonte, Brazil. She collected items such as cleats, shin guards, socks,
clothing, snacks and water bottles, donating half of them to NorthStar Ministries in Birmingham and distributing the rest on a mission trip to Brazil with Briarwood’s Soccer Club. “One of the first days of being in Brazil, we held a soccer training camp for the kids in the village,” Marlow said. “I handed one boy a jersey that was donated and he came back the next day with it on. He told me that he had never received a gift like that and that he felt very special to have received it.” As a result of Marlow’s efforts, Briarwood’s Soccer Club will continue to
host the drive and distribute donations in Birmingham as well as Brazil through their annual mission trip. ❖
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Vestavia Hills resident Ken Dawson has released a book based on his experiences with the Kairos Prison Ministry, an international group dedicated to providing spiritual support for those who are incarcerated. Dawson has been involved with Kairos Ken Dawson Prison Ministry for more than 20 years. After the death of his youngest son, Dawson used the relationships he had formed through the group to cope with his loss. In his memoir, “Kairos Prison Ministry: Salvation Through Jesus,” he chronicles the journey of mourning his son along with the history of Kairos and his experiences working with the inmates. Dawson will be hosting a book signing Nov. 8 at noon at St. Peter’s Anglican Church.
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By Kaitlin Candelaria Presidential elections are exactly a year away, and with them comes a constant barrage of Facebook posts, political propaganda and heated conversations. In this day and age, it can be hard to determine fact from fiction; bias seems to run rampant in the media
and people tend to take what they read online as truth. Apryl Marie Fogel wanted to do her part toward changing that when she moved to Birmingham two and a half years ago. Fogel, who worked as a political consultant in Washington, D.C., for a decade before relocating to Mountain Brook, wanted to create a source of middle-of-the-road information where
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people, especially women, could go to get information about the happenings in their local, state and federal governments. “The big thing to me especially for women in our generation is to know that these issues all matter to them,” Fogel said. “(Women) aren’t single issue voters, which is how we’ve historically been perceived. We have mothers that stay home and mothers in the work force and mothers that do both, so ALToday.com provides easy content with a focus on women in politics, business and philanthropy.” Although Fogel puts a focus on women, content on Alabama Today covers everything from the debate
‘You’re not going to go to our site and roll your eyes, you’re going to go get information that’s relatable to you and other people that live in Alabama.’ Apryl Marie Fogel
over bringing Uber to Birmingham to the Hillary Clinton/Benghazi hearings. “I think it’s very important that, because we live in such a digital age, that people have a place to go that’s somewhat local-centered,” Fogel said. “You’re not going to go to our site and roll your eyes, you’re going to go get information that’s relatable to you and other people that live in Alabama.” The Alabama Today site includes articles from the Associated Press and freelance reporters, along with guest columnists from around the state. Fogel said that, although she aims for an objective news report, she also welcomes opinions from both sides of the political spectrum. She said she’d like to change the idea that it isn’t polite to discuss politics in mixed company. She and her boyfriend are on opposite ends of the political spectrum and often enjoy debating issues and candidates, she said. “People ask me how I can be in a relationship with someone with such different values, but I don’t avoid those conversations or those tough questions because being able to challenge one another and respect one another and respect the process is important,” she said. “The thing with
politics that people don’t realize is that there is a domino effect. There’s no necessarily right or wrong answer. It’s about striking a balance.” Balance is exactly what Fogel hopes to provide for women who want to get more involved in politics. By providing fair and unbiased information, Fogel said, she hopes to encourage more women to be involved in politics and to consider political careers. She also hopes that people will use her site to become more informed on local and state politics, as opposed to voting only in presidential elections. “Part of (the problem) is there’s so much going on in life that you’re almost oblivious to these things that affect you every day,” she said. “It may not affect you that driver’s license offices or parks are closing in counties that you don’t live in. But you have to look beyond the talking points. “We have a generation that gets involved in the hot button fights like abortion and gun control and minimum wage – but then they turn a blind eye to the things that make their utility bills go up and their grocery bills go up, because the other issues get more press and are sexier.” ❖
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Poetry With Purpose By Kaitlin Candelaria Emily McElhaney has always loved to write. At 78 years old, she has now published her first book of poetry and is donating the proceeds to a local ministry. “I wrote my first long poem when I was in high school,” she said. “I always had a burning desire to write, but it was always poetry. The older I got, the more I matured spiritually in the Lord and the more I wrote poetry. I kind of feel like I was just the scribe writing down what the Lord gave me.” McElhaney said she never imagined she would publish her own book, but God had other plans. “I’ve wanted to publish this book for years,” she said. “At first, I thought I wanted to just get the poems in printable form for my children, but something always happened and either I didn’t follow through or I ran into an obstacle.” This past summer, McElhaney was approached by her friend Don Wilson, a retired history professor at Samford University. He connected her with the publishing department at Booksa-Million. The Brookwood location of the store has a publishing machine inside the store.
Baptist Church and enjoy traveling to spend time with her other children, grandchildren and great grandchildren. It was that love of family that inspired her to donate the proceeds from her book to the WellHouse
‘I kind of feel like I was just the scribe writing down what the Lord gave me.’ Ministries. When she heard founder Tajuan McCarty’s story of escaping from sexual slavery, she said her heart was moved.
Journal photo by Kaitlin Candelaria
Hoover Resident’s New Book Will Benefit WellHouse Ministry
Thursday, November 5, 2015 • 11
People
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To learn more about the WellHouse, visit www.the-wellhouse.org. ❖
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Emily McElhaney published her first book at 78 years old and is donating proceeds to the WellHouse Ministry of Birmingham.
However, McElhaney, who describes herself as “computer illiterate,” thought she had run into another obstacle when she found out all of her poems would need to be put on a flash drive to use the machine. “God always has perfect timing,” she said. “Would you believe a friend at church walked up to me the next Sunday morning and told me she wanted to help me publish my book?” With the help of Zach Kendrick at Books-a-Million and her friends, McElhaney was able to publish “Miracles of God,” a book of poetry. McElhaney and her husband moved to Hoover from Mobile 8 and a half years ago. McElhaney is a mother of three and suggested the move to be closer to her grandchildren. She said she and her husband have fallen in love with their community and the Birmingham area. She and her husband are dedicated members of Dawson Memorial
“Sexual trafficking knows no race, no educational background,” McElhaney said. “Some women are very educated and some get caught up in it as young girls. It could’ve been one of my daughters or granddaughters and I guess that’s the thing that captured my heart and made me want to get involved and to support the ministry.” McElhaney said that, although she is excited about publishing her first book, her main priority is to glorify God. “I just thank the Lord for the ability to write poetry,” she said. To purchase a copy of “Miracles of God,” visit www.booksamillion.com.
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U.S. 280 Traffic Study Gains Traction By William C. Singleton III Hoover officials have agreed to fund the city’s portion of a study to improve a feeder road of U.S. 280. But its sister cities have yet to pull the trigger. The Hoover City Council recently agreed to contribute $60,000 toward a study to redesign Grants Mill Road between Interstate 459 and Alabama 119 to carry more traffic. The idea behind the redesign is to take more traffic off U.S. 280, a heavily traveled highway that handles more than 84,000 vehicles a day. Various proposals have been floated to improve traffic on U.S. 280, including an elevated toll system – an idea that has fallen by the wayside.
and Shelby counties contribute their share. The cities of Hoover, Irondale, Leeds, Mountain Brook and Vestavia Hills, Jefferson and Shelby counties,
Still, officials of cities that border U.S. 280 continue to seek a solution. The latest proposal has a host of municipal and county governments
Improvement proposals include realigning Grants Mill and making it a 55 mph road. Grants Mill twists and turns and becomes wide and then narrow as it moves from Interstate 459 to Alabama 119. and the Birmingham Water Works Board are being asked to pay $60,000 each. Birmingham is paying the lion’s share because most of the improvements would be within its jurisdiction. Improvement proposals include
banding together to fund a study to improve Grants Mill Road so it could handle excess U.S. 280 traffic. Birmingham has agreed to pay $560,000 to fund the more than $1 million study if other municipalities surrounding U.S. 280 and Jefferson
realigning Grants Mill and making it a 55 mph road. Grants Mill twists and turns and becomes wide and then narrow as it moves from Interstate 459 to Alabama 119. Portions of the road carry a speed limit of 35 mph, and the road can get backed up with traffic on the U.S. 280 side. Hoover Mayor Gary Ivey said he believes the study is a step in the right direction. “The prediction is that if you make improvements to this road, you’ll take as much as 15 to 18 percent of the traffic off 280,” he said. “That’s the prediction, but the study will tell us that.” Vestavia Hills Mayor Alberto “Butch” Zaragoza said his city hasn’t decided whether it will contribute to the study. “It’s something that the
u homewood
By Kaitlin Candelaria A controversial rezoning decision back in May brought to light what can only be described as the parking nightmare that plagues downtown Homewood during peak hours. During the rezoning process, many business owners came forward to voice their displeasure at the rezoning, which would allow a satellite church to take up residence on Linden Ave. Their main concern? Sharing their already overstretched parking areas. Since then, an ad hoc parking committee has been working diligently to address the issues through various avenues. The parking committee answers to the planning and development committee and will provide recommendations for the best solutions to the issue. “We took a look at downtown and the first thing we did is try to identify if there was any property available that could be acquired or leased by the city,” Britt Thames, Ward 1 Place 2 representative said. Although he said they inquired on a property, that solution has so far not come to fruition. The committee also turned its attention to Central Ave, which runs alongside the complex that houses The Little Donkey and Steel City Pops among other businesses. Thames said that many confused the street as a two-way street when in fact, it is a one-way. To clarify the issue, the committee proceeded to re-stripe u over the mountain
Sen. Waggoner and Rep. Faulkner Speak at Legislative Roundtable The Homewood Chamber of Commerce hosted its annual Legislative Roundtable at the new Brock School of Business at Samford University on Oct. 20.
parking places along the length of the road and also painted a new cross walk, adding additional parking and creating a safer crossing for pedestrians. However, Thames said the committees main thrust for solving the parking issues is actually already in place. The Soho parking deck was constructed almost 10 years ago, and yet is still vastly underutilized during the busiest times of the day. Thames said one reason for this may be because patrons don’t realize the deck is there. “We have very little signage around the deck—the only sign is above the ramp down into the deck, so hopefully we’ll be able to recommend putting up some additional signs around the downtown area and on our website,” Thames said. He also pointed out that some customers may feel that they’re cut off from the 18th Street shopping and eating area when they park in the deck, which he says is a misconception. He hopes to recommend highlighting the numerous routes from the deck to the retail areas as a result of their deliberations. Thames said the final piece of possibly solving the parking dilemmas in downtown Homewood is working with the Homewood Chamber and the businesses in the area to push their employees to park in the deck as opposed to occupying customer parking. “When the deck was originally built, the idea was that it was going to be used Republican Sen. Jabo Waggoner and Rep. David Faulkner both served as panel members at the luncheon, with questions posed by Samford provost Matt Hardin. They addressed the recent controversial special sessions held by the state legislature, laws and bills that affected Homewood and what to expect in the next regular session, scheduled for February. Some of the local issues included
Journal photo by Kaitlin Candelaria
Committee Hopes to Relieve Downtown Parking Issues
The signage at the parking deck’s entrance in Soho is the only indication that the parking deck is available. Britt Thames says his committee hopes to change this and encourage more people to use the deck to ease the parking issues in the downtown Homewood area.
by employees so that customers could have the parking and it’s clear that that’s not happening,” Thames said. “It’s going to require self-policing by the businesses.” He said some businesses on 18th Street such as Urban Cookhouse already require their employees to park
below ground. Although Thames is hopeful about the results from these changes, he said long term, there are discussions taking place about rezoning and redeveloping certain areas of downtown including Linden Ave. ❖
the water works bill passed earlier this year, which sets a cap on board member’s salaries, as well as the annexation of lands outside of Homewood into the city limits. One such particular parcel was the plot of land off of Lakeshore Drive where the erecting of a large digital billboard caused uproar in the Homewood community. Both Faulkner and Waggoner
agreed that a state lottery and gambling will be on the agenda in February as solutions to the deficit in the General Fund. Although both cautioned against using the lottery as a fix-all, Faulkner expressed that many of his constituents seemed to be in favor. However, both said that a proposed gambling bill was much less favored by members of their respective communities. ❖
council will have to decide,” he said, though he gave no time table. Mountain Brook City Manager Sam Gaston said officials in his city haven’t been presented with a formal request to contribute to such a study. “I’ve been to some meetings, and some numbers have been presented, but we have not received a formal request,” he said. Gaston noted that the Alabama Department of Transportation’s project two years ago to alter traffic lights has helped traffic move through Mountain Brook. He also said continued improvements to I-459 should help more. “Any time you can give some relief to take more traffic off 280, that would be a good thing,” Gaston said. “But as far as our involvement in that, that would be for the council to decide.” Ivey said that if all the governments get on board, the study likely would take two years to complete. ❖ u vestavia hills
KultureCity Chosen to Partner With Microsoft
Microsoft has selected KultureCity as one of 10 nonprofits to partner with in its UpgradeYourWorld Nonprofit Campaign. The international nonprofit based in Vestavia Hills works to change the daily lives of autistic children, while also working to change the way autistic people are perceived and treated in society long-term. The award, announced Oct. 15, spotlights KultureCity as one of the best nonprofits in the country. Other nonprofit organizations that received the award, which comes with a $50,000 grant, are the Boys & Girls Club of America and KIND, founded by actress Angelina Jolie. KultureCity was founded in 2013 by Dr. Julian Maha and his wife, Dr. Michele Kong, after their son was diagnosed with autism. KultureCity was the youngest organization that Microsoft selected to partner and support over the next year. “KultureCity is truly blessed and humbled to have been selected to partner with Microsoft to be a part of Microsoft’s Upgrade Your World Initiative,” Maha said in a press release. “This collaboration will help us continue to fund many of our projects, including lifeBOKS, Toys AUcross America and tabletKULTURE; all aimed to create a world where children with autism can have a chance at a better and brighter future. Thank you Microsoft for standing with KultureCity.” KultureCity has helped more than 14,893 people with its toy and tablet programs as well as the lifeBOKS initiative, which helps prevent wandering and wandering-related accidents among children with autism. The group also has launched several sensory friendly initiatives that focus on making local attractions and restaurants sensory friendly, including a project with the Birmingham Zoo. ❖
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$42 Million Master Plan Suggested for Parks By Emily Williams
The proposed plan would invest $13 million in renovations to bring existing facilities up to national standards and American with Disabilities
The proposed plan would invest $13 million in renovations to bring existing facilities up to national standards and American with Disabilities Act requirements. Act requirements. A new community center would cost $10 million; $19 million would be spent to create new parks and greenways; and $140,000
Courtesy Lose & Associates
Lose & Associates, a Nashvillebased landscape architecture, architecture, civil engineering and land planning firm is recommending Mountain Brook invest in a $42 million overhaul of its Parks and Recreation Department that would include a new community center, new parks and greenways and renovations to existing parks. Lose & Associates President and co-owner Chris Camp presented the master plan during a public meeting Oct. 27. The plan is based on data from a community survey about Mountain Brook parks and an evaluation of existing parks. Camp said the plan next will be presented to the city council.
Thursday, November 5, 2015 • 13
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According to Lose & Associates, 1,158 people participated in the survey. Of those, 983 indicated they wanted more paved trails and sidewalks in the community, among other desires.
would be used for design and development studies in the parks. “The old swim and tennis facility (Mountain Brook Swim and Tennis Club) is up for sale,” Camp said. “That would make a good park of about 15 acres. Across the street from it there are a couple of hundred acres. It’s got a large, private residence on it, but it is undeveloped land and it’s contiguous to the city limits.” He also suggested the city buy land across I-459 from Veteran’s Memorial Park and open up more greenways by connecting existing trails to those of other nearby cities. Camp and Mary Henderson of Lose and Associates presented a threetier plan to revamp the Parks and Recreation Department and facilities. Tier one was given a timeline of two years to complete and would include initiating new recreational programs, coordinating new events with the chamber of commerce and the Mountain Brook Art Association, managing new contracts for youth sports organizations, taking a more active role in sports field scheduling and meeting twice each year with collaborators to come up with thorough year-end reports. Tier two would focus on creating more sports programming for youth tennis and adult sports, finding a suitable space to offer communitywide recreation classes, meeting national park accreditation standards and evaluating all existing programs.
The final tier would involve developing public art programs, creating a youth council and initiating plans to build a new community center. According to survey data presented by Camp, 1,158 people participated in the survey. Of those, 983 indicated they wanted more paved trails and
sidewalks in the community, among other desires. Following the presentation, the floor was opened for public comment. Many people discussed the safety of existing parks and asked specific questions about how quickly safety changes would be implemented. ❖
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u vestavia hills
By William C. Singleton III
The Vestavia Hills City Council delayed a vote on a controversial rezoning after the developer offered to
change his proposal. Steve Hydinger, managing director of BREC Development LLC, sought conditional rezoning to build a mixed-used development that would
include retail and apartments. Because portions of the development would include buildings exceeding 35 feet, Hydinger had to apply for conditional rezoning.
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The current B1.2 zoning allows developments with a height of 35 feet or three stories, whichever is less. Hydinger was seeking to build structures taller than 35 feet, including a controversial four-story apartment complex near Cahaba Heights Elementary School. However, at the council’s Oct. 26 meeting, Hydinger said he would amend his proposal to bring his development in line with existing zoning laws. His sudden change of plan caught the council and the audience of more than 160 people off guard as the council discussed whether the change meant the entire matter would have to go back before the city’s Planning and Zoning Commission. City officials said the proposal would have to go back before the commission if “substantial changes” are made. City Clerk Rebecca Leavings, who serves as the city’s zoning expert, said she needs to review BREC Development’s amended plan before deciding whether it constitutes substantial change. If the amended proposal doesn’t include substantial changes, the council has set Dec. 14 as the day to vote on the rezoning. Cahaba Heights residents have been up in arms over BREC Development’s plans to build apartments adjacent to the elementary school. They say the development is too big for the neighborhood, would increase traffic near the school and doesn’t fit the village feel residents want for their neighborhood. Hydinger, however, said the development fits within the Cahaba Heights Master Plan, which was devised with community input. He has said that three of the seven parcels on which he plans to build the development are already zoned for mixed use. Hydinger also has amended his proposal to the number of units in the apartment from 150 to 80. He also has proposed more retail space, 5,000 square feet instead of 2,000, a bigger
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Cahaba Heights Rezoning Delayed After Changes
parking area and a road to help traffic flow that would be created by the development. The city’s Planning and Zoning Commission in September voted 6-2 to allow rezoning for the mixed-use development. The commission’s vote is only a recommendation to the council. The council’s decision to postpone a rezoning vote put a damper on a potential chorus of voices who attended the meeting to oppose the proposal. However, several residents still voiced their concerns about the project outside City Hall and during the citizen’s comment period near the end of the council meeting. Resident Keith Lee remained unimpressed with Hydinger’s plan to reduce the height of the apartment complex. “Whether it’s three stories or four stories, it doesn’t matter. It’s still next to our school,” he said. Resident Jeremiah Rogers agreed. “I don’t think the removal of the fourth story is going to change all the problems with the development that the community has,” he said. “It’s still very high density within just yards from the school, it will tower over everything in the neighborhood, and it will be the biggest building in Cahaba Heights.” Vestavia Hills City Schools Superintendent Sheila Phillips has gone on record opposing the proposal but said it’s a matter the school system doesn’t control because it doesn’t own property. “To be clear, I have urged the City Council not to approve this measure due to potential negative impacts related to property supervision, students who walk to and from school, impact on carpool lines, safety and security, and future campus design,” she said in a statement released on the school system’s website. The Cahaba Heights Community Foundation also has collected more than 2,000 signatures opposing proposed apartments next to the elementary school. Councilman George Pierce said he would not be voting on the issue because of a conflict of interest and abstained on the vote to postpone the rezoning. After the meeting, Pierce explained that he works for Associated Builders and Contractors, and a memRepLace youR ber of his group will build thepRongS, project notapprove youR StoneS! should the council the rezon205-769-6930 ing. ❖
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Duty Calls
Thursday, November 5, 2015 • 15
veteran’s day
New Ministry Reaches out to Those Who Served Col. C.H. “Stretch” Dunn of Hoover has already given much to his country. A 1966 graduate of the United States Military Academy, Dunn served in Vietnam, where he earned the Silver Star and three other awards for valor. He spent 26 years in the Army before retiring to enter private business in 1992. In the years that followed, Dunn worked for the engineering firm BE&K. In his spare time, he gave motivational and leadership talks and co-authored two books. Although no longer in the military, Dunn still is working to help men and women in uniform. He is an active supporter of the Alabama National Cemetery and has also become involved in a new organization, the Veterans Leadership Ministry, which reaches out to those who have experienced the trauma of war. “Even those who come out of war without suffering a physical injury suffer from a concept called moral injury,” Dunn said. “It’s an injury to an individual’s moral conscience resulting
‘War has a way of damaging the soul. We felt by dealing with it from a spiritual perspective, we could help in an empathetic and non-judgmental way.’ from an act of moral transgression which produces emotional shame. The concept emphasizes the psychological, cultural and spiritual aspects of trauma. The term is used in literature on the mental health of military veterans who have witnessed or perpetuated a morally transgressive act in combat.” Dunn first became interested in the ministry after he and Col. Bob Barefield, who also works with the Alabama National Cemetery, in Nov. 2014 attended a conference in Sarasota, Florida, dealing with hidden wounds and moral injury. “War has a way of damaging the soul,” Dunn said. “We felt by dealing with it from a spiritual perspective, we could help in an empathetic and non-judgmental way.” The ministry, which is based out of Bluff
Veteran’s Day Events
In 1945, a World War II veteran from Birmingham, Alabama had the idea to expand Armistice Day to celebrate all veterans. It was Raymond Weeks of Birmingham, who led a delegation to Washington, D.C., urging thenArmy Chief of Staff General Dwight Eisenhower to create a national holiday that honored all veterans. In 1954, President Eisenhower signed legislation formally establishing Nov. 11 as Veterans Day. Sat., Nov. 7 PELHAM
Vietnam 50th Anniversary Commemoration Ride Heart of Dixie Harley Davidson This ride and day of thanks will begin at 10 a.m. at the Alabama National Cemetery, followed by a ride to the Heart of Dixie Harley Davidson. This event is free and reservations are encouraged. To RSVP, email
LegionRiders@alpost555.com. For more information, call 626-9458. Sun., Nov. 8 BIRMINGHAM
Veterans Day Program Alabama Veterans Memorial Park The park will honor veterans at 1:45 p.m. with a program at the memorial plaza featuring guest speaker Noah Galloway. A dedication of the StepStones will follow at 3 p.m. honoring veterans, living and deceased. Each stone is a four-by-eight brick paver engraved with a veterans name, rank and branch of service. This event is free. In the event of rain, the program will take place in the Boy Scout building on I-459. For more information, visit www.nationalveteransday.org. tues., Nov. 10 BIRMINGHAM
Beer, Dogs and Veterans Good People Brewing Company In support of the Alabama chapter of Dogs on Deployment, Good People is hosting a Veteran’s Day celebration
Hoover
VETERANS DAY SPECIAL EVENT Bluff Park United Methodist Church Sun., Nov. 8 A tribute marking the 50th Anniversary of the entry of American troops into Vietnam, and an introduction to the new Veterans Leadership Ministry at BPUMC. The evening begins at 5 p.m. with dinner and at 6 p.m. music by the Hoover High School Jazz Band. For more information, visit www. bluffparkumc.org. ❖ Photo special to the Journal
By Lee Davis
Park United Methodist Church, has a simple and powerful mission statement: “To provide a safe place of acceptance and healing for men and women quietly suffering from the effects of war.” The Veterans Leadership Ministry’s method, called the Flow, is to listen, love, trust, talk and heal, all in complete confidentiality. Veterans from all wars and all faiths are encouraged to participate in the ministry. The ministry will be staffed by 50 trained volunteers. “We’re caring amateurs engaged in a professional process to receive service members and their families,” Dunn said. “We want this ministry to be a non-prejudicial safe haven for veterans.” The biggest challenge may be getting veterans to come to the ministry for the first time. “Patience and persistence on our part is going to be essential,” he said. Dunn’s own war experiences shaped his passion for the ministry. His West Point class of 1966 had more officers killed in Vietnam than any other class at the academy. One of them was Capt. Tommy Hayes, his best friend. The ministry comes as November marks the 50th anniversary of the first major battle in the Vietnam War, and Dunn believes the war left an indelible mark on the national fabric. Of particular importance was the Tet Offensive of January 1968, in which North Vietnamese and Viet Cong forces engaged in a massive assault on South Vietnam’s urban areas. “The Tet Offensive left a tremendous impact and changed the psychology of the country to this day,” Dunn said. “The political powers and country at large were not prepared to do what it took to win. North Vietnam’s General (Vo Nguyen) Giap knew what it took to wear us down. If they couldn’t beat us on the battlefield, they could destroy our will to fight – which is what they did.” America’s toll in Vietnam was heavy. More than 58,000 American troops were killed and more than 1,600 remain missing
A 1966 graduate of the United States Military Academy, Dunn served in Vietnam, where he earned the Silver Star and three other awards for valor. He spent 26 years in the Army before retiring to enter private business in 1992.
and unaccounted for to this day. Dunn said veterans of particular wars may come back with different issues and concerns. For example, many Vietnam veterans felt ostracized by their fellow citizens when they returned home from the war. Veterans of more recent conflicts in Afghanistan and Iraq may still feel lingering fear from the constant threat of improvised explosive devices – even years after they’ve returned to the United States. Some of the trauma that soldiers serving in combat zones must deal with comes from the home front, Dunn pointed out. “As long as there have been wars, soldiers have had to deal with bad news
from 5-9 p.m. For more information, visit the “Beer, Dogs, and Veterans Charity Fundraiser!” Facebook page or call 527-5235. BIRMINGHAM
Raymond Weeks Memorial Service Linn Park Named in honor of the founder of America’s National Veterans Day, Raymond Weeks, the city will hold a program at 4:30 p.m. featuring remarks by Mayor William Bell. The program will take place at the Raymond Weeks memorial at the northwest corner of Linn Park between Boutwell Auditorium and City Hall. For more information, visit www.nationalveteransday.org. BIRMINGHAM
Veterans Day Salute Southern Museum of Flight Beginning at 6 p.m., the museum will celebrate Veterans Day with an evening program. After a reception in the south wing, the Alabama Symphony Orchestra will perform at 7 p.m. followed by a VIP event in the second
from home such as the death of a loved one, a house fire, an automobile accident, break-ups and divorces,” he said. “They have that feeling of powerlessness that something’s wrong and there’s nothing they can do.” Dunn hopes the ministry will have an impact in the Bluff Park and surrounding areas, but all veterans regardless of their residence are encouraged to come. “Our entire congregation has a role to play, even if they aren’t volunteers for the ministry,” Dunn said. “Everyone can pray for the ministry.” Dunn said he thinks of his late friend Tommy Hayes every day. “I want Tommy to know that we did everything we could to help the veterans that are here,” he said. For more information about Veterans Leadership Ministry, go to its website www.veteransleadershipministry.org. ❖
Look for more Veteran’s Day coverage online and in our Nov. 19 issue. www.otmj.com
floor gallery. Reservations can be made to melissa.morgan@birminghamal.gov. BIRMINGHAM
National Veterans Award Reception and Dinner Sheraton Birmingham A reception for all distinguished visitors and honored guests will be held at 5:15 p.m. in the hotel’s ballroom prior to an awards dinner at 6:30 p.m. This year’s award recipient is retired army Master sergeant Ronald Rosser. He is a veteran of the Korean War and holds a Medal of Honor. Tickets are $35 and can be purchased after completing and submitting a ticket form, available at www.nationalveteransday.org. Wed., Nov. 11 BIRMINGHAM
Memorial Service Cathedral of the Advent Beginning at 8:30 a.m., a service will recognize and honor veterans who have passed away this past year. The program will be conducted by The Forty and Eight, an independent
honor organization of U.S. veterans founded in 1920. For more information, visit www.nationalveteransday.org. For more information, visit www. southernmuseumofflight.org or call 8338226. BIRMINGHAM
World Peace Luncheon Sheraton The annual luncheon will begin at 10:30 a.m. Chaplain General Carlton Fisher Jr. will serve as the featured speaker for the program. Tickets are $25. For more information, visit www. nationalveteransday.org. BIRMINGHAM
Veteran’s Day Parade Downtown Birmingham The annual parade will begin at 1:30 and departs from 18th Street and Rev. Abraham Woods Jr. Blvd. It will then move south on to 2nd Ave. N., east to 22nd St., north to 5th Ave. N., west to 19th St. and will end in front of City Hall. For more information, visit www. nationalveteransday.org. ❖
16 • Thursday, November 5, 2015
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Stepping Out
The Debutante Club Announces New Ball Name and Debutantes
T
he Birmingham Debutante Club has announced the members of the 2015 Debutante Club. Sixteen young women will be presented at the Black and White Ball on Nov. 27 at the Country Club of Birmingham. The Black and White Ball – formerly The Heritage Ball – continues a longtime tradition of The Debutante Club in Birmingham. Debutantes have been presented to their families and friends at a ball since the Debutante Club was founded in 1929. ❖
Ann Floyd Stevens Ashton, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Edward Jackson Ashton
Julie Anne Bryant, daughter of Dr. James Edward Bryant and Mrs. Paty Bargeron Bryant
Elizabeth Norris Coleman, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Thomas Coleman Jr.
Virginia Hagood Drennen, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Richard Hagood Drennen
Anne Hutchinson Galloway, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Frank Coffey Galloway III.
Eulalie Crommelin Draper Given, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Robert Sommerville Wilkerson Given.
Caroline Nabers Gray, daughter of Dr. and Mrs. Samuel Eugene Gray.
Mary Virginia Grisham, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. James Ernest Grisham III.
Mary Elizabeth Hobbs, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. David Whitehead Hobbs.
Adelaide Harling King, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Mark Steven King.
Florence Evans Poynor, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Wilmer Smith Poynor IV.
Kathryn Ann Simpson, daughter of Dr. and Mrs. Lloyd Clark Simpson.
Brownlee Stephens Smith, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Robert Augustus Smith
Catherine Shepard Smith, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Clinton Hill Smith.
Virginia Gilder Smith, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. David Michael Smith.
Caroline Creighton Sparrow, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. James Callen Sparrow.
Grand Opening Celebration!
For IMPACT, a Christian-based, United Way non-profit counseling agency, this new office space means a broader client demographic reach, new amenities, and room for growth.
Thursday, November 12, 2015 4:00 to 7:00 pm 701 Montgomery Highway, Suite 202 Vestavia Hills, Alabama 35216 RSVP: 205-916-0123 www.ImpactAL.org
Both of IMPACT Family Counseling’s locations serve the community through a variety of programs. Outpatient counseling is offered based on a sliding scale fee ; the agency also offers free relationship enrichment workshops; mentoring of teens, youth, and young mothers; anger management; responsible fatherhood classes; and successful schools programs.
Announces the Grand Opening of their New Location in Vestavia Hills!
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Photo special to the Journal
From left: Debbie Reid, Carlos Izcaray and Kathie Ramsey.
Orchestrating October SVC Falls into a New Year of Service the ASO Junior Patrons, Jonathan Hoffman. The goal of the junior patrons is “providing affordable access to the ASO to everyone forty and under.” On Oct. 9 the Symphony Volunteer Council sponsored the EBSCO Masterworks concert “Joyce Yang Plays Liszt.” Just before the performance began, ASO President Curt Long accompanied Carlton and Clarkson to the stage, where the co-chairs of the 2014 Decorators’ ShowHouse presented a donation of $65,000. A final coda to early fall activities was the ushering of the Explorer
Concerts to introduce the youngest audiences to classical orchestral music. Vice Presidents of Education Linda Griggs, Mimi Jackson, Debbie Reid and Jody Weston worked with ASO Director of Education Alison Bolton to ensure a full complement of ushers 5299 Valleydale Road, Suite 111 for all performances. On Oct. 13, 14 980-9030 and 15, students from public, private southeasternjewelers.net and home schools attended morn(1/4 mile off 280) ing concerts given by the Alabama Symphony Orchestra at the Dawson Baptist Church in Homewood. An audience favorite was the “Toy Symphony” with the percussion section playing an assortment of toy instruments ❖ To: Renee From: chandelier and sconces Y Over The Mountain Journal, 205-823-9646 ph., 205-824-1246, fax Date: October
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The Symphony Volunteer Council held its fall membership party Sept. 22 at the Hoover home of Orchestra Hospitality Chair Debra Gilbreath. SVC members and their guests enjoyed the evening on the patio as they visited with the new musical director of the Alabama Symphony Orchestra, Carlos Izcaray. Izcaray spoke to the group about some of his plans for the ASO. Phyllis Davis, Sandra Wilson, and Betsy Cooper orchestrated a sumptuous spread of sweet and savory snacks. President Cheree Carleton invited all of the guests into the living room for a special musical interlude. Two of the vice presidents of education, Debbie Reed and Mimi Jackson, introduced Trey Sullivan, a senior at The Alabama School of Fine Arts and student of Dr. Lucy De Sa. He won a scholarship for summer study at the Sewanee Music Festival Pre-College Piano Studio. Sullivan performed Sergei Rachmaninoff’s “Prelude in C# Minor.” Seen at the event were Linda and Roger James, Eric and Cheree Carlton, Olivia and Gene Weingarten, Diane Ray, Barbarann Beckett-Gaines, Jane Pounds, Nell Larsen, Skip and Bob Wadhams, Robert Raiford and Zane Rhodes, Lucille Dawson, Sandra and Bob Wilson and Kathie, Pringle Ramsey, Linda and Mike Griggs, Roberta and Jim Atkinson, Skip and Bob Wadhams, Lynne and Michael Meeks, Eric Carleton, Janet Lauer, Elaine Hornberger, Sharon Tatum, Shirley Holcombe, Virginia and Shine Guthrie, Brenda Cook, Liz and Tom Warren, Char and Rick Bonsack, Debbi Bartoletti, Jonnie and Rich Venglik, Janice Williams, Dani Pate, Jean Bargerhill, Sandra Annonio and Betty and Wally Womack. At the end of the program, Carleton spoke briefly to the group about the success of the 2015 Decorators’ ShowHouse and the SVC’s upcoming year. She introduced the president of the ASO’s newest support group,
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At the annual four-day Antiques in the Gardens, guests flooded the Birmingham Botanical Gardens for lectures, installations and a black-tie affair. Kellie McDowell chaired the Oct. 1 event with help from Elizabeth Broughton, Leah Hazzard and Kathy Mezrano. The gala provided guests with an Antiques in the Garden sneak preview, with music by the MAXX. ❖
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Thursday, November 5, 2015 • 19
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Photos special to the Journal
From left: Lindsay Sinor, Kimberly L. Jackson, Carla Roberson, Koko Mackin, Eleanor Griffin, Shirley Fagan and Jill Deer.
Dining with D.I.V.A.S.
above: From left: Melissa Seton, Laura Sink, Lori Barber and Susan Yarbro. below: Martha DeBuys, Kathy O’ Rear, Leslie McLeod and Nancy McCollum.
Awards for Service KDs Celebrate Founder’s Day
The Mountain Brook Kappa Delta Alumnae Association enjoyed their Founder’s Day luncheon Oct. 15 at the home of Laura Sink. Katie Patrick, president of the association, gave a report on this summer’s Kappa Delta convention in Orlando, Florida. The Mountain Brook group won the Alumnae Chapter Achievement Award for exemplary service and leadership and the Shamrock Award for excellence in philanthropy. Susan Yarbro, Lori Barber and Melissa Seton provided a delicious lunch for all. Others in attendance were
Evelyn Pritchard, Jennifer Kline, Leslie McLeod, Lee Moncus, Susan Waggoner, Tracy Simmons, Amy Hudson, Kaci Chesebro, Marlea Foster, June Eagan, Bede Donnell, Julie Wright, Jane Brakefield, Nancy McCollum and Amy Knight. Also enjoying the day were Elizabeth Outland, Lalie Given, Francie Deaton, Betsy Harmon, Ellen Rhett, Sheila McCallum, Isabelle Lawson, Hallie Rawls, Liz Briggs, Martha DeBuys and Mary Dee Pride. ❖
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Luncheon Recognizes Female Community Volunteers Ten community volunteer leaders are the special guests at the D.I.V.A.S. 10th annual luncheon scheduled Oct. 15 at Regions Field. D.I.V.A. S., Developing Initiatives and Values Among Sisters, recognizes experienced volunteer leaders while mentoring young professional women on the power and impact of giving. Event honorees included Patti Rice, founder of Hands On Birmingham; Karen Kapp, former
executive director of Better Basics; Judy Woods of the United Way of Central Alabama; Jeanne Jackson, executive director of The Women’s Fund; Lou Lacey of Children’s of Alabama; Alice Williams; Isabel Rubio, executive director of the Hispanic Interest Coalition of Alabama; Mary Michael Kelly, executive director of the Community Food Bank of Central Alabama; Dr. Kathleen Lindsay, principal
of Huffman Academy; and Nancy Goedecke, 2015 United Way Campaign Chair. This year’s D.I.V.A.S. chair is KoKo Mackin of Blue Cross Blue Shield. The luncheon was sponsored by United Way’s Women’s Leadership Council, which is part of a global network of more than 60,000 women in 155 communities across six countries, each dedicated to improving lives and creating stronger communities. ❖
20 • Thursday, November 5, 2015
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Dental Dining
UAB School of Dentistry Hosts First Dean’s Reception
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Dr. and Mrs. G. Robin Pruitt Jr. opened up their Longleaf Estate home in Vestavia Hills to hold the Dean’s Reception meet and greet for UAB School of Dentistry Dean Dr. Michael S. Reddy. The event was catered by B & A Warehouse with Carlos Pinos providing the musical entertainment. Guests in attendance included faculty members of the school of dentistry as well as donors who contribute in building a partnership with the school. “As an alumni of the school of dentistry and as a private practicing dentist in Birmingham, I feel very humbled, honored and blessed to be able to support and give back to this great educational institute.” Dr. Pruitt said. “The Dean’s Reception was well received and was a great success. This event just shows the passion that
Dean Michael S. Reddy, Mary Broome & Dr. Jim Broome
Dean Reddy, the School of Dentistry faculty and administration and the private practice alumni doctors have toward continuing to empower students at the School of Dentistry and leave a legacy as being on the forefront of leadership in oral health care, not only in Alabama but throughout the world.” The school received a seven-year, $66.8 million grant from the National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research, part of the National Institutes of Health. The grant allows the creation of a national dental practice-based research network, consolidating the institute’s former three regional research networks into a single, nationally coordinated effort. ❖
Dean Michael S. Reddy, Dr. Sherri Weissman
Bayshore Over The Mountain Journal, 205-823-9646 ph., 205-824-1246, fax October
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To: From:
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1201 3RD AVENUE SOUTH . BIRMINGHAM, AL 35233 PHONE: 205-251-0684 . WWW.ALABAMAAUTOTOP.COM
This is your ad proof from the over the mountain Journal for the november 5, 2015 issue. Please contact your sales representative as soon as possible to approve your ad or make changes. You may fax approval or changes to 824-1246.
From left: Doris White, Janie Henderson, Margaret Ritchie and Jackie MacClary.
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Growing Up Gaieties
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Dance Club Welcomes New Members “An appealing blend of voices … an elegant, often ethereal, transparent sound.” - Ronald Grames, Fanfare $15 only on SursumCorda.org
The Gaieties held its annual fall luncheon and meeting at the Country Club of Birmingham on Oct. 8. During the meeting, new members were voted to join the dance club. New members voted into Gaieties are Millie Curtis, Patsy Dreher, Marlea Foster, Kimberly Freeman, Ann Hull, Helen Pardue, Becky Sevier and Barbara Stone. ❖
Lunching and Learning Study Club Celebrates 68 Years
The Belvedere Study Club began its 68th year with an Oct. 7 luncheon and a program with a “the greatest generation” theme. New member Shelley Schneider presented the program on “A Soldier’s Memoirs,” recounting her father’s World War II experiences, which she illustrated with photographs. Janis Zeanah hosted the event at her River Run home along with co-host Kay Davidson. Bouquets of fall flowers and pumpkins set the scene in the courtyard and
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reception rooms. Before the program, members mingled on the deck overlooking the turning leaves of Mountain Brook. President Margie Curry presided at the business meeting. She announced upcoming programs for November and December. On Nov. 4, world-traveler and raconteur Niki Sepsas reviewed Tom Brokaw’s “The Greatest Generation” at the home of Margaret Rogers, with Shelley Schneider as co-hostess.
On Dec. 2, Belvedere members will meet at The Club for lunch and a presentation by storyteller Linda Neighbors and a reading of “The Christmas Story” by Margie Curry. Members attending the October meeting included Ginger Brown, Judy Jackson, Dale Miller, Margaret Rogers, Bobby Jean Tucker and Olivia Wells. Belvedere was organized in 1948 by a group of BirminghamSouthern alumnae and now boasts second-generation members. Ginger Brown, daughter of the club’s second president, the late Virginia Huckstep, is current vice president and program chairman of the club. Judy Harvey, daughter of the late Charlene Malonee, another early past president, also has been active in the club. Kay Davidson’s mother, Florinne Campbell, is a past president and longtime member of Belvedere. ❖ From left: Olivia Wells, Margie Curry, Kay
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Alan Over The Mountain Journal August 2015 This is your AD prOOF for Over The MOunTAin JOurnAl for the August 13, 2015 issue. please approve, initial and fax to 824-1246 or contact your sales representative as soon as possible to make changes.
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Samford Celebration
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The Samford University Legacy League began its new year with a fall luncheon on Oct. 1. More than 300 members and guests attended the luncheon, held at Vestavia Hills Country Club. Acclaimed actor, vocalist and worship leader Kristen Bowden Sharp was the featured guest. Sharp recently played the lead role in Red Mountain Theater’s production of “Mary Poppins.” After enjoying a delicious meal and time of fellowship around tables decorated with centerpieces of colorful mums, the capacity crowd listened to Cass Waddell, Legacy League scholarship recipient. He expressed how attending Samford had made an indescribable impact on his life. The information Waddell learned as he researched Samford “came to life” when he visited campus. A junior majoring in engineering and physics, Waddell is active on campus, serving as an alumni relations officer and a home group leader. Jeanna Westmoreland, executive director of the Legacy League, announced that the organization will be collaborating with the School of the Arts in recognition of its centennial year. Funds raised this year will endow a new needs-based scholarship for students pursuing a degree in the arts. Dr. Joseph Hopkins, professor and dean of the School of the Arts, invited attendees to the Centennial Celebration Benefit Concert and School of the Arts birthday party Nov. 17. Harriet Williams, vice president of programs, introduced featured guest Sharp, who shared her journey “From Birmingham to Broadway and Back” through songs and sto-
Photos special to the Journal
Legacy League Lunches Into a New Year
Kristen Bowden Sharp and Harriet Williams.
ries. Accompanied by Kathryn Fouse, associate dean for Samford’s Department of Music, Sharp began her story with “Journey to the Past” which she sang for her first professional audition. She continued to entertain the audience with stories of her time in New York as she sang other Broadway favorites such as “Somewhere over the Rainbow,” “Not for the Life of Me,” “Unusual Way” and “The Sound of Music.” She also sang an original composition, “Stay with Me,” and concluded her story with “My Beloved,” which she called her theme song. Kathryn Woodruff, president of Legacy League, closed with special thanks to those in attendance. For more details about upcoming events, including the Christmas Home Tour and Holiday Gift Market on Dec. 10, visit www.samford.edu/legacyleague or call 205-726-2247. ❖
Above: Front, from left: Lynn Parrish, Nett Parrish, Mary Ellen Andrews and Dianne Booth. Back: Sherry Armstrong, Kathryn Woodruff, Patricia Hawk and Vickie Gord. left: Fran Duncan, Paula Gossett and Danna Duncan.
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Thursday, November 5, 2015 • 23
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Zeigler-Kissel
Photos special to the Journal
Emily Grace Zeigler and Edward Urban Kissel IV were married at sunset on Sept. 11 in Montego Bay, Jamaica. The Rev. Matt Scott of Pell City officiated the beachside ceremony. Dinner and dancing followed. The bride is the daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Alan Zeigler of Birmingham. She is the grand-
From left: Paul DeMarco, Tynette Lynch, Gary Ivey and Lori Salter-Schommer.
Culinary Arrangements Food and Flowers Displayed at the 2015 Taste of Hoover
Aldridge Gardens’ annual Taste of Hoover event Oct. 22 celebrated the variety of culinary styles found throughout the city. Held from 5-8 p.m., the evening began with a sunset that ushered in a rain-free fall night. The crowd enjoyed the weather along with live entertainment by singer Raquel Lily. Guests strolled through the Gardens sampling dishes from 26 restaurants and six caterers along with the Culinary and Hospitality Institute at Jefferson State Community College. Attendees enjoyed everything from barbecue and sushi to pimento cheese and cupcakes. For refreshment, international wines and local beers were served as well as soft drinks and bottled water. Special guests included Mayor Gary Ivey, former Mayor Frank Skinner, John Lyda, Paul DeMarco, Kay and Eddie Aldridge and more than 300 others. ❖
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ated the ceremony. The bride is the daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Donald Wright of Vestavia Hills. The groom is the son of Mr. and Mrs. James Pyeatt of Cypress, Texas. Given in marriage by her father, the bride was attended by her sister, Allison Wright Valiquette, as matron of honor. Bridesmaids were Christina Edwards, Anna Schnell, Katie Nunnally, Anna Kathryn Orcutt, Margaret Nix, Erika Bush, Laura Daniel, Abbey Lengel, Cameron Crake and Allison Little. Luke Pyeatt, brother of the groom, and Alex Toney served as best men. Groomsmen were Thomas Deetjen, Aaron Francis, Andrew Threlkeld, Zach Whitt, Greg Chaffin, Collin Laden, Jon Wickes, Ben Law and Joel Thomason. After a honeymoon trip to Kauai, Hawaii, the couple lives in Dallas.
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Wright-Pyeatt
Emily Caroline Wright and Matthew James Pyeatt were married Oct. 24 at Swann Lake Stables in Birmingham. Mr. Alex Toney offici-
daughter of Mrs. Nellie Whitson of Birmingham, the late Mr. James Sallas of Sylacauga and the late Mr. and Mrs. Bloise Zeigler of Sylacauga. The groom is the son of Drs. Edward and Rebecca Kissel of Birmingham. He is the grandson of Mr. and Mrs. Edward Kissel Jr., the late Mrs. Linda Kissel and the late Mr. and Mrs. Charles Beavers, all of Birmingham. Given in marriage by her father, the bride wore a strapless, ivory, lace gown with a chapel-length train. Bridesmaids were Mary Kathleen Zeigler of Birmingham and Rebecca Lucille Kissel of Cincinnati, Ohio, sisters of the bride and groom. The groom’s father served as best man and the groomsman was Raleigh Kent III of Birmingham. Scripture was read by Father Richard Donahue of Birmingham. A celebration honoring the bride and groom was held Oct. 17 at Lazy KB Farm in Pell City. The couple lives in Birmingham.
991-6887
daughter of the late Mr. Harold Otis Knight Sr. and Mrs. Jeanell Grogan Knight of Vestavia Hills and Ret. Col. and Mrs. John Dwight Spence Sr. of Hoover. Miss Spence is a graduate of "Let uS Reimagine youR jewthe University of Alabama, where she received a bachelor’s degree eLRy!". in exercise science. She is attending the University of Alabama at Birmingham in the occupational therapy program. The prospective groom is the grandson of the late Mr. Charles Franklin Johnson Jr. and Ret. Col. and Mrs. Walton Anderson Phillips of Anniston and Mr. and Mrs. Archie Ray Crain of Marietta, Spence-Crain Georgia. Mr. and Mrs. John Dwight Mr. Crain will graduate from Spence Jr. of Hoover announce Samford University in December the engagement of their daughter, with a bachelor’s degree in sports Kristen Nicole Spence, to Steven administration. Ray Crain, son of Dr. and Mrs. After a December wedding in Michael Ray Crain of Hoover. Birmingham, the couple will live in The bride-elect is the grandVestavia Hills.
To have our wedding & engagement forms sent to you, call 823-9646.
24 • Thursday, November 5, 2015
Mountain Brook
OVER THE MOUNTAIN Journal
holiday shopping
In the Villages of Mountain Brook!
Crestline Village Holiday Open House Thursday, Nov. 19th!
Save the Date! Cahaba Village Open House Tues., Dec. 1st english Village Open House Wed., Dec. 2nd MounTain brook Village Open House Thurs., Dec. 3rd holiDay ParaDe MounTain brook Village sun., Dec. 6th at 3 p.m.
Crestline Pharmacy Since college days at Samford University, the Cobb and Hammers families have remained friends. Their children have grown up together and Crestline Pharmacy has been a part of all of their lives since 1990. “The store’s employees and customers are also part of the family,” said Jan Cobb, who owns the shop with her friend Susie Hammers (pictured above with store manager Diane Wright, from left). “We have shared so much with the Crestline community through the years and they are all important to us. We are grateful for our loyal friends who are close by and those who drive out of their way to come to us. We offer personal charge accounts and free delivery as part of our ‘family’ service. Our pharmacy is open seven days a week
Thursday, November 5, 2015 • 25
crestline Village
OVER THE MOUNTAIN Journal
to provide for those who need attention on weekends.” The Gift Shop, located in the main store has year round gifts, home décor, lamps, jewelry and fashion accessories. “We feature Beatriz Ball, Uttermost and J. Devlin,” Cobb said. “Our Christmas Shoppe, located just around the corner on Hoyt Lane, has reopened this year. It features everything Christmas -- nutcrackers, ornaments, mercury glass, angels, nativities, snow globes, Byers Carolers, Jeremie, Roman and so much more. We even offer custom wreaths and trees.” Pharmacy hours are Mon. - Fri. 8 a.m.-8 p.m., Sat. 8 a.m.-6 p.m. and Sun. 10 a.m.-6 p.m. Christmas Shoppe hours are Mon.-Fri. 10 a.m.-6 p.m. and Sat. 9 a.m.-3 p.m. Crestline Pharmacy is located at 60 Church Street, 871-0317.
Snoozy’s Kids Snoozy’s Kids has been in business since 1988 and is a toy store that will surprise you. “We carry hard-to-find toys that will thrill the people on your holiday list,” said owner George Jones, above. “Wrapping, of course, is free and shipping services are available. “We pride ourselves on being able to help you find the perfect gift for anyone on your list, from newborns to adults. Just give us the age, personality and budget and we’ll take care of the rest.” George says the store has several new gift ideas this year, including the electric skateboard he’s holding in the picture above. “For the Crestline Village Holiday Open House event on Nov. 19, we’re featuring all things local,” George said. “We offer several local jewelry designers, local candlemakers and
more.” Snoozy’s Kids, a fixture in Crestline Village for more than 26 years, offers a wide varitey of
‘We pride ourselves on on being able to help you find the perfect gift for anyone on your list, from newborns to adults. Just give us the age, personality and budget and we’ll take care of the rest.’ poplular and unique merchandise and an experienced and knowlegeable staff that takes the guesswork out of finding the perfect gift that’s sure to be a joy to give and receive. Snoozy’s Kids is located at 228 Country Club Park, 871-2662.
Now Offering Custom Wreaths & Trees!
Crestline Pharmacy Christmas Shoppe
Monday - fr iday 9-6 Satur day 10-5
Op en sundays during the hO lidays!
60 Church Street • 871-0317
871-2662
To:
George Jones, 933-2229
26 • Thursday, November 5, 2015
John-William Jeweller For almost 40 years and through parts of five decades, Billy Bromberg has been a retailer. Billy is the owner of John-William Jeweller along with his brother, John Bromberg, from left, above. “I remember thinking I would die if I had to work every Saturday but I didn’t,” Billy said. “I remember at 30 thinking I was pretty good at this. Knowing all I know now, I had a lot to learn. “My first sale above $10,000 I thought I was the reason the gentleman made this important decision. I didn’t realize he was going to make that decision somewhere, either here or there, he wasn’t going to change his mind and go home.
crestline village
“It took time to recognize, then make sense of that simple lesson, but the light bulb came on and it’s served me well. I believe it’s served
‘Please accept my invitation to visit us here.’ my customers equally well. The same little light bulb in my head reminds me daily, in all tasks, the difference between here and there is my responsibility. “Of course there is the other little light bulb, the flashing red one, reminding me not to make plans for Saturday. “Please accept my invitation to visit us here. At the very least, it will save you from having to go there. Saturdays are always good.” John-William Jeweller is located at 81 Church Street, 870-4367.
OVER THE MOUNTAIN Journal
Town & Country Clothes “We have been in business since 1943, which I believe makes us the oldest business in Crestline Village,” said store owner Laurel Bassett, pictured above center with members of her staff. “We pride ourselves on providing personal customer service, and clothing for women of all ages and sizes. We also have lines you won’t find in larger stores, and one-of-a-kind handmade jewelry. “Coinciding with the Crestline Village holiday open house, we are having a three-day holiday gift show, featuring Baggallini purses and Millefiore scented gifts Nov. 18-Nov. 20. Baggallini is our most popular line of purses--designed by airline stewardesses to be
lightweight, well-organized, durable and greatlooking. “Millefiore makes wonder laundry detergents, candles and diffusers to make your home smell fresh and clean for the holidays. Those also make great gifts for anyone on your list, and we’d be happy to wrap up a little gift package along with our Merry Cheese Crisps and Shortbread, made by local resident Meredith McMillan. “We’ve also just brought back tons of new jewelry and scarves from New York at amazing prices for the holidays! I also purchased some amazing components for my handmade jewelry, if you’re looking for something unusual for someone special on your list, like semi-precious stones mounted in oxidized silver with pave white sapphires.” Town & Country Clothes is located at 74 Church St., 871-7909.
74 Church Street • 871-7909
Monday - Friday 10-5 & Saturday 10-4 www.townandcountryclothes.com
Thursday, November 5, 2015 • 27
crestline village
OVER THE MOUNTAIN Journal
OTM Communities Plan Holiday Events Over the Mountain area cities and merchants are trimming trees, preparing parades and coordinating celebrations marking the beginning of the holiday season. Here’s a rundown of community events in the works:
Homewood Lambs Ears, Ltd.
Smith’s Variety At Smith’s Variety Toy and Gift Shoppe, visitors can take a step back through time as they stroll through aisles of gifts, candy-by-thepound, new and retro toys and the largest ribbon by-the-yard section in Alabama. Smith’s Variety is the one-stop shop for party goods, stationary, invitations, books, housewares, notions, crafts, wrapping supplies, monogrammable items, baby gifts, balloons, gifts for the young and old and more this holiday season. The 65-year-old business will be relocating this year to its new home in Crestline Village on Nov. 12, just in time for its annual holiday open house that night. “We’re very excited about moving to our new location in Crestline Village,” Mary Anne Glazner said. She owns the shop along with her
son, Jim and his wife, Tammie, pictured above. In addition to the Smith’s Variety holiday open house on Nov. 12, the store will also offer its annual Play Day--a popular event that gives visitors the opportunity to play with the toys
‘We’re very excited about moving to our new location in Crestline Village.’ and meet with representatives available to answer questions and to demonstrate their products--on Nov. 21. Free products will be given to a limited number of children. The 23rd annual event will also include drawings and giveaways from your favorite companies. Smith’s Variety’s new address in Crestline Village is 45 Church Street, 871-0841.
smith's variety holiday O pen house! At our new home in Crestline Village!
Thursday, Nov. 12th 5:00pm - 7:00pm
First 50 customers receive a gift card worth up to $50 Assorted Hors d'oeuvres & treats! Live music! come November ! s u e e s 12th! Free personalization on ornaments! Multiple local vendors! Drawings all evening for great door prizes!
Since 1950
OpeNiNg NOvember 12Th iN cresTliNe village!
Lamb’s Ears, Ltd. is an inimitable shop full of beautiful items from housewares and home decor to art, jewelry and accessories. Since 2011, sisters Julie Howell and Elizabeth Roberts, above, have owned and operated the distinctive boutique. The sisters each bring unique talents and sensibilities to the business. “Elizabeth has her CPA, so her expertise with numbers and analysis is by far one of the more important elements to our business.” Julie said. “My expertise, if you want to call it that, is as a buyer, merchandiser and designer.” Julie is no stranger to small business. She first learned the ins and outs of managing a company from her father, who ran several businesses in his own career, and then she went on to manage a few companies of her own. “I have had a couple of businesses,” she said. “Everything from an insulation contractor to a furniture store.” Before becoming co-owners of Lamb’s Ears, Julie was a shopper and frequent patron. “Lambs Ears, at the time it was in Cahaba Heights, was always my ‘go to’ store for gifts,” she said. Lamb’s Ears is located at 70 Church St, 8025700.
The city will host its annual Holiday Open House on Nov. 5 beginning at 5:30 p.m. Businesses downtown and in Edgewood will offer extended hours and holiday specials for those who want to get a jump start on their Christmas shopping. There will be a holiday trolley to shuttle attendants back and forth as well as holiday beverages and snacks. For more information, visit www. homewoodchamber.org. Samford University will usher in the holidays with its annual Hanging of the Green on Dec. 3. The campus tradition is based on an old English custom and has been done each year for almost 30 years. The night begins with a holiday service at Reid Chapel at 6 p.m., followed by the lighting of the entire quad with candles. The grand finale is the lighting of the large Christmas tree in front of the library. The Homewood tradition of lighting the star will take place on Dec. 1, and the city will host its annual Christmas parade on Dec. 8 beginning at 6:30 p.m. at the Homewood Library. Awards will be given for best of show, most holiday spirit, most lights, best use of lights and best decorated vehicle. For more information, visit www.homewoodparks. com.
Hoover Hoover residents also will get an early start to the holiday season with the “Greatest Holiday Lighting on Earth” ceremony at the Riverchase Galleria on Nov. 6. Mayor Gary Ivey will be on hand to light the Christmas tree and help attendants welcome Santa Claus. There also will be music and dancing to begin the seasonal festivities. The annual Christmas Tree lighting ceremony at Hoover City Hall will take place Nov. 30 at 5 p.m.
Mountain Brook Crestline Village in Mountain Brook will hold its annual holiday open house Nov. 19. Various stores in the village will be running specials all day, with the main open house beginning at 4 p.m. English Village will hold its open house Dec. 2. Stores in the village will be running specials all day and will stay open late. Mountain Brook Village will hold its annual open house Dec. 3 beginning at 4 p.m. Some stores will offer special prices all day in preparation for the event. The annual Mountain Brook Holiday parade will take place Dec. 6 at 3 p.m. The float procession will wind through Mountain Brook Village on Cahaba Road, Culver Road and Petticoat Lane. For more information, visit www.welcometomountainbrook. com.
Vestavia Hills Vestavia Hills’ Holiday in the Hills tree lighting festival will begin at 6 p.m. Dec. 1. Guests are invited to gather at City Hall for the lighting of the tree, local merchant giveaways and visits with Santa. The celebration continues with a breakfast with Santa Dec. 12 from 7:30-10 a.m. at the Vestavia Hills Civic Center. The holiday season festivities will conclude Dec. 13 with a Christmas parade and celebration at the Liberty Park Sports Complex from 2-4 p.m. For more information, visit www.vestaviahills. org. ❖
28 • Thursday, November 5, 2015
home
OVER THE MOUNTAIN Journal
Birmingham Home & Garden Magazine inspiration home
Journal photo by Emily Williams
A wooden four-poster bed is the focal point in the room with a neutral fabric covering the headboard and footboard.
W
By Emily Williams
hen Amy Atkinson and Caitlin Ogren were given a chance to outfit the 2015 Inspiration Home’s master bedroom, they went to work creating a calm retreat. c “We went with a neutral palate,” Ogren said. “We just wanted it to be a soothing and calm master bedroom.”
A wooden four-poster bed is the focal point in the room with a neutral fabric covering the headboard and footboard. Atkinson and Ogren with Three Sheets, a linen shop in Homewood, agreed that the bed was the key to their success in the room, outfitted with soft greys and off-white shades that allow the variety of fabrics to provide the drama.
Caitlin Ogren and Amy Atkinson
Talking Texture
Three Sheets Creates Calm in the Master Bedroom
Texture was added through fur accents in the form of pillows and a throw. Outside of their own products, Ogren said KADCO’s use of a raw-wood wall was a bonus for their design, providing a contrast to the softness of the furnishings. Finding personality through neutral pieces is advice that Ogren said she would give to anyone who is struggling to find a theme in their own bedroom. “If you stick with a neutral, you can do a patterned pillow or a fur throw to keep it fun,” she said. Tastes change over time, Atkinson said, so it’s wise to stick with neutral colors for the essentials and change out the accessories as desired. “Buying new items is not inexpensive,” Ogren said. “In my opinion, you are better off waiting and buying the pieces you want versus something you are settling for.” For someone who is looking to fill a new room, Ogren and Atkinson’s advice is to purchase the essentials and wait for the rest of the furnishings to follow. Those essential items See master bedroom, page 32
Sensible Space The 2015 Inspiration Home Sits Small and Lives Large
Journal photo by Emily Williams
Photo by Jean Allsopp
The 2015 Inspiration Home will be decked out for the holidays and open for tours Nov. 12-Dec. 6. Tour hours are: Thursdays and Fridays from 11 a.m.-6 p.m., Saturdays from 9 a.m.-5 p.m. and Sundays from 1 p.m.-5p.m. Tickets for the tour are $10 and proceeds from the event will benefit the YMCA of Greater Birmingham. For more information, visit www.birminghamhomeandgarden.com.
By Emily Williams This year’s Inspiration Home proves that you don’t need a mansion to live like royalty. With just more than 3,500 square feet, the Calton Hill home is suitable for empty nesters and other buyers looking for lowmaintenance properties. The first priority for the Inspiration Home and other houses in the neighborhood was to remain low in maintenance and heavy on amenities, said Jason Kessler of KADCO Homes, the builder and developer of the new neighborhood that straddles Mountain Brook and Birmingham in the Crestline area. Kessler said the Inspiration Home and its neighbors, which his
The first priority for the Inspiration Home and other houses in the neighborhood was to remain low in maintenance and heavy on amenities, said Jason Kessler of KADCO Homes, the builder and developer of Calton Hill in the Crestline area.
company created with the help of Jim Kelly Custom Homes and Alan Wisdom of Wisdom & Associates, are detached homes that contain top-of-the-line finishes and energy-efficient features. He
said each house will incorporate high-efficiency HVAC systems, tank-less water heaters and radiant barrier sheeting underneath the roof to keep the home cool and power bills low. Automated systems that can be run from a smartphone or computer can be added to give even more efficiency. Outside of being energy conscious, Kessler said the number one request from buyers looking to build is an open floor plan. “They want areas where they can do it all,” he said. “They want to be able to prepare meals, entertain guests and spend time with family all in one livable, functional space.” Main level living is the mantra for the Inspiration Home’s layout. “The master on the main level has become very standard,” Kessler said. “In this house, we have a study on the main level as well and each of our detached homes will feature either two bedrooms on the main level or a master bedroom and study.” When staffers at Birmingham Home and Garden began their search for the 2015 Inspiration Home, editor Cathy Still McGowin said, they didn’t set out to feature a smaller home, but KADCO’s design surprised them.
See sensible space, page 32
OVER THE MOUNTAIN Journal
home
Thursday, November 5, 2015 • 29
30 • Thursday, November 5, 2015
home
OVER THE MOUNTAIN Journal
Expanding and Illuminating
Stock & Trade Shows How to Maximize Limited Dining Space
The designers said they tried to choose pieces of artwork and furniture that were a good balance of comfortable and formal. To start, they chose a round, wooden table with matching chairs.
Christopher Rankin, Barbara Williams and Chris Magidson
Journal photo by Emily Williams
Photo by Jean Allsopp
W
By Emily Williams
ith its reduced size, the dining area of this year’s Inspiration Home presented a challenge for Stock & Trade, a home furnishings and design business located in Homewood, to create a dramatic space where a homeowner could entertain while also using the room for everyday dining. Gallery manager Christopher Rankin teamed up with lead designers Barbara Williams and Chris Magidson to create a versatile dining room. “Everything is so open concept now that designing to fit those spaces has to be a good mix,” Magidson said. “It has to be casual for everyday living, but because that’s also your only space now, there has to be a certain level of elegance to it for more formal entertaining.” The designers said they tried to choose pieces of artwork and furniture that were a good balance of comfortable and formal. To start, they chose a round, wooden table with matching chairs. “We happen to just love round tables and that space lent itself to a round table,” Magidson said. “The dining room is almost square.” He added that the curves of the table create a natural pathway from the open kitchen and living area into the dining room. To add an element of drama, the designers incorporated two large mirrors, mounted on the wall between windows to create the illusion of a glass wall. “Something mirrored is always a good idea because it reflects the light so beautifully,” Williams said. “That makes a dining space more elegant.” Keeping with the neutral tones of the rest of
the Inspiration Home, Stock & Trade kept colors to a minimum and brought in brighter colors with table accessories and artwork. “If you go back and look at truly classic design, you see that they kept it neutral and there was a reason for that,” Magidson said. “It’s clean, it’s classic and you don’t get bored with it.” He also added that any neutral shade is a color, it’s just a more calming palate to work with. “I always tell my clients, don’t let anybody shame you for not having bold color,” Magidson said. The design of the dining room reflects the advice that Magidson and his team would give to anyone who is looking to fill a dining space in their new home. If the space is on the smaller side, they suggest keeping furniture to a minimum to reduce clutter and buying things that will stand the test of time. “We always encourage people to keep the core pieces neutral because you are financially making a bigger commitment with them,” Magidson said. Williams suggested buying just the important pieces first, such as a table and some chairs. “Lighting, that’s going to be one of the most important pieces also,” Williams said. “But you can evolve the room over time if you get a couple of pieces that function.” According to Rankin, a homeowner shouldn’t be afraid to leave a space empty while they wait for the right purchases. “If you get those pieces that you really love versus just getting pieces to fill a space, your whole home is going to be much more reflective of who is living in it,” Rankin said. “It will be collected rather than decorated.”❖
We pride ourselves in being unlike other communities, especially when others agree. Mt Laurel is honored to be recognized as a Southern Living Inspired Community. From the beginning, our town has reflected many of the same timeless virtues long championed by Southern Living. To be selected as the only Birmingham community for this title reaffirms our distinctive vision of what is possible. From our tree-lined streets to our distinctive homes and relaxed atmosphere, we hope you will visit and discover the unique experience of what it means to be a Southern Living Inspired Community. (205) 408- 8696 | mtlaurel.com
Cherry Laurel Model Home open daily
Thursday, November 5, 2015 • 31
home
OVER THE MOUNTAIN Journal
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Over The Mountain Journal - Full Page (10.375 x 12.5)
32 • Thursday, November 5, 2015
home 72 Stoney Ridge Lake MaRtin
$1,449,000 Meticulously cared for, this wonderful 5 bedroom, 5.5 bath family home is among the best the Ridge has to offer! Soaring ceilings, wood floors, custom cabinetry, excellent outdoor spaces and great craftsmanship are among the features Legacy Homes is known for in the homes they build. This ideal home is conveniently located in a great neighborhood and is move-in ready with room for the entire family! Contact us to schedule your tour of this and other Lake Martin properties!
Becky Haynie
Broker / realtor (334) 312-0928 Becky@HomeonlakeMartin.com
www.HoMeonlakeMartin.coM
Kathy’s Designer Kitchens, Inc. 1831 29th Ave. S. • Homewood, AL 35209 205-871-9880 • Kathy Owens, CKD, President
Reflect Your Own Personal Style
Decorator Fabrics • Hardware • Trim
1820 Greensprings Highway 322-5878 www.kingcottonfabrics.com
sensible space, From page 28
“It lives large and it fulfills all of the same needs that a 10,000-squarefoot house would fill,” McGowin said. She said it is the smallest house that has ever been featured as the Inspiration Home, but what it lacks in size it makes up for in functionality. She said it is the perfect home for a buyer who wants to downsize but still wants all of the functionality a larger home offers. “What we loved about it is that you’ve got this beautiful master bedroom and bath,” she said. “They can close off that upstairs area. So, their grandkids can come, their kids can come, company can come, but they don’t have any real reason to go up there.” The home includes an elevator bank that currently functions as a wine closet, giving the owner the potential to add an elevator in the future, “so it can truly be a forever home,” McGowin said. When outfitting the house for the tour, McGowin said her team called on Sherri Ellis of Ellis Interiors to act as a liaison between the different designers of each room.
master bedroom, From page 28
include a bed, linens and a coverlet. “With linens I would say you need to stick with something classic,” Ogren said. “When spending money on linens, you should get something you’re going to love forever and then add pillows or a throw.” Atkinson said the price of sheets should not overwhelm the buyer if they think about how much time they
OVER THE MOUNTAIN Journal
“The house has a distinct personality,” McGowin said. “Even empty it did. You can see the foundation for what someone can come in and do. For instance, that wonderful wood wall in the master. The fireplaces the high ceilings and the coffer ceiling in the dining room.” She said her team could not have been happier with the results. “I was surprised by what Katherine Bramlett did with the study,” said Birmingham Home and Garden’s Marketing Manager Anne Lyle Harris. “I loved how she had (a bulletin board) covering an entire wall and how it opened up the space.” The team agreed the idea that guests should leave with is that buyers can have everything they want in a home with a smaller floor plan. McGowin said the large feeling of the home comes from open floor plans and perfect furniture placement, for example the pathways that Defining Home created in the living room.
“You don’t have to push all of the furniture up to the walls,” McGowin said. “You leave the furniture in the middle of the room and leave the walls for the case goods. Defining Home kind of created a path behind the sofa and the sofa table even though there isn’t a traditional hall. Furniture placement was impressive.” For guests who see something they like and wish to recreate it in their own home, all of the pieces on display can be purchased. Whether it’s furniture, lighting or textiles, McGowin said that people who visit the Calton Hill home are going to find new Birmingham resources they didn’t realize were available. ❖
will be spending in bed. “Sheets can be pricey, but it’s worth it,” she said. One cause for concern when skimping on sheets is the size. With the pillow-top trend, Ogren said many brands of sheets do not accommodate the height of the mattress. “Mattresses are getting larger and larger,” Ogren said. “We have a couple of sheet companies that make the pockets bigger so you can fit those larger mattresses.” Both ladies of Three Sheets said they hope their interpretation of a
master bedroom will inspire others to create a soothing environment in their own homes. If guests fall in love with any of the furnishings and wish to add to their collection, Ogren said, the items in the room are for sale and can be special ordered from the store. “The best rooms are created over time, because it’s filled with things you’ve fallen in love with,” Atkinson said. “That is what brings out your personality in a space.” ❖
Home Inspiration Sponsors This year’s sponsors feature both emerging businesses and Birmingham staples, including: Alagasco, At Home Furnishings, Central Woodwork, Clear Advantage Pantry, Defining Home, Frontera, Innovative Surfaces, Issis & Sons Furniture and Flooring Galleries, KADCO Homes, Katherine Bramlett with Marjorie Johnston and Co., Maserati of Birmingham, Mayer Electric Supply, McGowin-King, New Latitude, Rozar’s Paint Supply, Smith’s Floor Coverings Inc., Southern Clay Brick Co., Stock & Trade Design Co., Southern Bath & Kitchen, Summit Media, Three Sheets and WIAT. ❖
3003 6th Ave. S. Birmingham, AL 35233 (205) 320-2696 Now open in the heart of Lakeview.
food The Art of the Meal
Thursday, November 5, 2015 • 33
OVER THE MOUNTAIN Journal
The Moss Rock Festival’s fourth annual Beer Garden will focus on Alabama’s growing fascination with craft beer brewing. The Nov. 7 and 8 tastings will give beer lovers a bird’s-eye view of the festival, including the stage. The Beer Garden includes more than 40 craft brews, food and some biodynamic wines. Already on board for the event are 5 Points Brewing, Avondale Brewing Co., Back Forty Beer Co., Blue Pants Brewery, Cahaba Brewing Co., Carboy Junkies, Good People Brewing Co., Ghost Train Brewing Co., Fairhope Brewing Co., New Belgium Brewing Co., Railyard Brewing Co., Piggly Wiggly, Straight to Ale, Terrapin Beer Co., The J. Clyde, Culinary Trim Tab Brewing Co., Vecchia Community Pizzeria & Mercato, Whole News and Events Foods Market Mountain Brook, and Yellowhammer Brewing. Sessions, extended to two hours this year, are from noon2 p.m. and 2:30-4 p.m. on Saturday and 1-3 p.m. on Sunday. Tickets are $25. Advance ticket buyers will receive a 13-ounce Belgian tasting glass plus a $10 gift card to The J. Clyde and a $10 gift card to Vecchia Pizzeria & Mercato. For tickets and more information, visit www. MossRockFestival.com. Tickets also can be purchased at The J. Clyde and Vecchia. The Moss Rock Festival explores nature, ecology ideas, art and design. Proceeds from the Beer Garden support art and educational programming for kids and adults while helping to keep the event free to the public.
Chef Goes Back to School With Capers on Park Avenue Jay Roberson’s restaurant, Capers on Park Avenue, has been open for only a few months. But years ago, Roberson spent a lot of time in the building where he now serves his own versions of Southern-style food. These days, he’s on the other side of the serving line. Capers is in what once was the lunchroom of the old Bluff Park Elementary School, which Roberson and his siblings all attended. His new eatery “took me back to school,” he said. The chef is at home in the kitchen for other reasons, too. His culinary resume includes jobs at The Summit Club in downtown Birmingham, at Riverchase Country Club and for the city of Pelham. He and his wife, Lynne, also owned Capers Comfort Foods, a previous incarnation of the restaurant he owns now at Artists on the Bluff in Hoover. Roberson said his fascination with food goes back to his childhood. “One of my grandfathers sold produce and furniture,” he said. “My other grandfather worked at Blue Cross, but he’d get up at 4 a.m. to make biscuits to take to work.” His mother, Sandy Roberson, “is a great cook, too,” he said. “She lives about a mile from here. She volunteers here at the restaurant sometimes.” Roberson said he got hooked on the idea of a career in food when he was working as kitchen manager at Incahoots, a Greek food sports bar in Birmingham. He became a culinary apprentice at Jefferson State Community College – and that’s where he met his future wife. “I remember we had a wedding cake-making competition at Jeff State, and I came in first and she came in second,” Roberson said, smiling. The chef said working at The Summit Club helped him sharpen and expand his cooking skills. “There was this crazy French chef who barely spoke English, and he had a sous chef for years who spoke Spanish and French,” Roberson said. “I knew how to filet fish and how to do short-order cooking. I’d been making soups – I could do four – and quiches at Incahoots. “But this was fine dining – caviar,
Journal photo by Lee Walls Jr.
By Donna Cornelius
Capers is in what once was the lunchroom of the old Bluff Park Elementary School, which Jay Roberson, above, and his siblings all attended. smoked salmon. The vegetables were all carved. The chef used French techniques.” That job led to his next position. A Summit Club member who also was a Riverchase Country Club member approached him about coming to work for the country club, he said. “I spent nine years there, and it was a wonderful job,” Roberson said.
piggly wiggly
®
“When you work at a country club, you kind of get to help raise the members’ kids.” He and his wife opened Capers Comfort Foods in Alabaster in 2003. “My wife chose the restaurant’s name,” he said. “We love caper berries and little Mediterranean capers. At The Summit Club, the
See capers, page 34
www.pigbham.com
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Cooking With Kids: Little Savannah Offers Mom and Me Class
Moms and kids can team up Nov. 7 at Little Savannah Restaurant and Bar for a class on basic knife skills and nutrition and health. Participants also will cook lunch – and then get to eat it. Children must be at least 10 years old and accompanied by an adult. The class is $50 and starts at 10 a.m. Little Savannah is at 3811 Clairmont Ave., Birmingham. For more information, visit www.littlesavannah. com.
See food news, page 34
Photo special to the Journal
Cheers for Beers: Moss Rock Festival Will Spotlight Craft Brews
34 • Thursday, November 5, 2015
Food
OVER THE MOUNTAIN Journal
food news,
eyes, they named him the “BBQ Blitz” champion of Alabama. The winning chef also got $5,000 – and a bear hug from Jackson. “It’s an amazing feeling, and everyone worked so hard,” Hall said. “But we persevered and came through on top. I’m super-stoked right now.” If you missed the show, it’s airing again on the Food Network at 6:30 p.m. Nov. 7. There’s no word on whether Cain had to hitchhike back to Birmingham.
From page 34
Local chefs Brandon Cain, left, and John Hall competed on the Food Network’s “BBQ Blitz,” last week. Hall defeated his good friend Cain and Gillian Clark, executive chef at Kitchen on George in Mobile to win the “Alabama Brawl.” one chef eliminated after the first round. Cain, who made pork belly and a warm Brussels sprouts and corn salad, got the boot but stayed on to cheer for Hall. “If there had been a hint of spice in that dish, it would have been the winner overall,” Lilly told Cain. Hall’s brined pork tenderloin, red cabbage slaw, and avocado mousse, and Clark’s guinea hen rillette, red beans and rice, and Brussels sprouts slaw moved them into the finals. Jackson revealed the “secret ingredient” that both chefs had to cook for the last round: humongous tomahawk rib-eye steaks. Hall seasoned and grilled his steaks
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and teamed them with an amped-up version of Southern potato salad that included jalapenos, bacon and blue cheese. Clark gave her steaks a TexMex rub and added onion rings, smoked onion puree and barbecue beans. Although the judges dinged Hall for removing the bone from his rib-
capers,
From page 34
chef put them in everything. “The first Capers was pretty much the same as this Capers. We were near a hospital, so everybody got food to go. We got everybody from CEOs to truck drivers and train conductors.” When Roberson’s brother-inlaw, who owned the building where Capers Comfort Foods was housed, decided to sell it, the couple opted not to reopen in another location. They went to work in 2009 for the city of Pelham, Jay as executive chef and Lynne as catering director. Roberson got back into the restaurant business when Artists on the Bluff – which houses artists’ studios, teaching spaces and offices – approached him about opening an eatery there. Capers serves lunch cafeteriastyle. “We have five or six entrees, fresh vegetables, and cobblers and pies,” Roberson said. “We’ve got our catering back up, too. “We try to keep it simple. We have Southern-style food with lots of flavor. We don’t cook with a lot of fat and bacon grease. We use minimal salt, and kosher salt only.” While Capers offers traditional dishes such as macaroni and cheese and turnip greens, diners might find Creole, Cajun and even Indian cookery on the menu. “Chef Harold Simmons does the hot foods,” Roberson said. “I do the cold foods and the desserts – raspberry swirl, vanilla bean and chocolate cheesecake and a candy bar crunch pie.” The menu changes daily. Lauren Mayfield, who handles the business aspect of the restaurant, posts the lineup on Facebook every day. Mayfield, the Robersons’ god-
Tops in Hospitality: Ross Bridge’s Executive Chef, GM Win Awards
When the Alabama Restaurant & Hospitality Alliance handed out its Stars of the Industry Awards on Sept. 28 in Birmingham, two of the top awards wound up in Hoover at Renaissance Ross Bridge Golf Resort & Spa. Rick Smith, Renaissance Ross Bridge’s general manager, won Hotelier of the Year. Executive Chef Robert Kamm won Chef of the Year. Smith has more than 30 years of experience in the hospitality industry. Kamm has been head of the resort’s culinary team since Renaissance Ross Bridge opened 10 years ago. Smith praised not only Kamm’s culinary skills, but also the chef’s
Gumbo Joe’s and The Home Brews will be at Matthew’s Bar and Grill for a pop-up restaurant Nov. 16. Gumbo Joe’s cooks up Cajun/world fusion food. The Home Brews creates food using beers from local brewing companies. For a menu and more information, visit the Gumbo Joe’s and The Home Brews Facebook page. Matthew’s Bar and Grill is at 2208 Morris Ave. in Birmingham. ❖
daughter, is a Homewood High School and UAB graduate. “Lots of my old high school teachers and my old principal have come here to eat,” she said. The UAB graduate said being part of Artists on the Bluff not only brings in visitors to the facility but gives Capers a constantly changing, creative atmosphere. “The artists display some of their work here, so we don’t have to worry about décor,” Mayfield said, adding that everything on the walls and shelves is for sale. Bluff Park resident Sue Hamilton recently was at Capers to get a takehome plate. She said she thought the restaurant was a good fit for the neighborhood. “We really needed another eating
place in Bluff Park,” Hamilton said. “This is such an eclectic area, like a small town. And I’m so glad they’re using this building.” Capers is open from 10:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. Tuesday through Sunday. “Sunday is our busiest day,” Roberson said. “We usually serve from 250 to 300 people.” The holiday season is likely to be hectic at Capers, too, the chef said. The restaurant will offer Thanksgiving meals to go. “It’s cornbread dressing for the masses,” he said, smiling. “We may close that week so we can work on all the orders.” Capers is at 571 Park Ave. in Hoover’s Bluff Park neighborhood. For more information, visit the restaurant’s Facebook page. ❖
Downtown Pop-up: Gumbo Joe’s, Home Brews Plan Event on Morris Avenue
Journal photo by Lee Walls Jr.
Chef John Hall may be as good a pit master as he is a pizza maker. The Post Office Pies chef and co-owner was the winner on Food Network’s “BBQ Blitz,” a new show that has three cooks facing off to see who can come up with the best barbecue dishes. The “Alabama Brawl” show, filmed on the grounds of the Montgomery Museum of Fine Arts, aired Oct. 29. Also representing Birmingham was Brandon Cain, Saw’s Soul Kitchen chef and co-owner. Early in the show, Cain said Hall was his best friend – and his best man when Cain got married. Their restaurants are on the same street in Avondale. The two carpooled together to the event, Hall said. “The loser may be walking back,” he said. Going up against the Birmingham duo was Gillian Clark, executive chef at Kitchen on George in Mobile. Eddie Jackson, who recently won season 11 of “Food Network Star,” hosts the show. Jackson played football at the University of Arkansas and in the NFL. He was born in Montgomery, he said on the show. Judges were Chris Lilly of Big Bob Gibson Bar-B-Q in Decatur and former NFL player Eddie “Boo” Williams. Like a football game, the barbecue battle is divided into two halves, with
Photo courtesy Food Network
‘BBQ Blitz’ Champ: Post Office Pies Chef Wins Food Network Competition
volunteer efforts. “His work with James Beard award winners and his own certification through the American Culinary Federation as a Certified Executive Chef are all things that bring a world of influence to our hotel and to the state,” Smith said. “Chef Rob has been involved in Hands On Birmingham to rebuild houses after a devastating tornado.” Renaissance Ross Bridge is owned by the Retirement Systems of Alabama and is part of the Resort Collection on Alabama’s Robert Trent Jones Golf Trail.
Being part of Artists on the Bluff not only brings in visitors to the facility but gives Capers a constantly changing, creative atmosphere.
cooks,
From page 1
through Cooks On A Mission member Frances Carter, who’s a nurse there. “Every Thanksgiving, they have a feast for the families of patients,” Futch said. “The March of Dimes provides turkey, nurses and doctors do desserts, and we do side dishes. We prepare for about 175 people.” The group started preparing for this year’s dinner weeks before the event. “We’re making chicken and dressing, sweet potato soufflé, cheesy apple casserole, green beans, and mac and cheese,” Futch said. Those good causes aren’t the only ones on the group’s plate. One day a month, it provides a meal for a support group for Children’s of Alabama pediatric oncology patients. It also helps The WellHouse, an organization that rescues women and girls from human trafficking, Futch said. “The house is in Leeds, and we feed the ladies there,” she said. “We bought them a freezer and try to keep it stocked.” Cooks On A Mission periodically provides meals at First Light Shelter, a downtown Birmingham shelter for women and children. “When they’re transitioning from the shelter to a home, we give them a ‘Welcome Home’ basket with things they’ll need to set up housekeeping,” Futch said. Aimee Turner is the Cooks On A Mission member who heads up this project. “We also help the Lovelady Center,” Turner said. “We refurnished a preschool room for them. It was like shopping for Christmas because we got to buy toys. It was so much fun.” That’s an example of Cooks On A Mission’s outreach beyond food. The group bought much-needed plus-size coats for First Light residents and has partnered with Shades Valley High School to provide winter coats, shoes and food for students. Last month, the cooks were busy getting ready for an Alabama Baptist Cooperative Program event at their church. “We get asked to cater Baptist events and other special events at our church,” Futch said. “We work with our church’s kitchen staff on our Thanksgiving feast. Sometimes we help with Lenten lunches.” Turner said Cooks On A Mission has “kind of evolved” since several women banded together to help fund their church’s family mission trip to California. The trip was going to be an expensive one since it involved so many people, and the women wanted to find a way to help. “There’s a white house the church owns, and missionaries would furlough there,” Futch said. “We said, why don’t we have a holiday house there and serve lunch and dinner? Sunday school classes would have parties there. We had a gift shop and sold pepper jelly, fudge and pound cakes. “We taste-tested and came up with menus. We did this for three years for two-week periods.” Those involved in the holiday project enjoyed it so much that they looked for other opportunities to cook together, Futch said.
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“Our church’s mission trips are now funded by a golf tournament, so we direct our efforts to local missions,” she said. To fund its projects, Cooks On A Mission holds monthly food sales for church members. “We sell entrees, scones or biscuits, and soups,” Futch said. The group gathers in the church kitchen most Fridays to cook. It also
Favorite Dishes from Cooks On A Mission
The women of Cooks On A Mission shared some of their favorite recipes, just in time for the holidays. The recipes are in “Something to Savor,” a cookbook with contributions from COAM members and other Mountain Brook Baptist Church members. Aunt Glenice’s Coconut Cake Aimee LeCroy Turner Ingredients: 1 box yellow butter cake mix, prepared small bag of Angel Flake coconut 16 ounces of sour cream ½ cup sugar 12 ounces of Cool Whip Directions: Make cake according to directions on box. (This usually requires one stick of butter, eggs, vegetable oil and water.) Pour cake batter into two greased 8-inch or 9-inch round or square pans. Let cool. Split each layer in half, making four layers of cake. Mix sugar with sour cream and ½ cup of coconut. Reserve ½ cup of this mixture for later use. Spread part of mixture on first layer of cake. Add second layer and repeat until all four layers are assembled. Spread sour cream mixture on the top and sides of the cake. Combine any remaining mixture plus the ½ cup of reserved mixture with Cool Whip. Mix well. Cover sides and top of cakes with this mixture. Sprinkle remaining coconut on top and sides of cake. Keep finished cake refrigerated.
Joann Stramaglia said the group helped her find her place as a newcomer to Mountain Brook Baptist. “I came here a year ago last summer,” she said. “My mother loved cooking; I come from amazing cooks. When I came here, they needed help with Vacation Bible School. The first thing I was asked to do was to help make lemonade, and that’s my favorite juice. I felt like this was what God really wanted me to do.” Members turn to each other during difficult times, Turner said. “Everyone goes through bad times, and when we hit them, we know who to call,” she said. “I’ll text the others in our group and say, ‘Please pray for me today.’” Futch said the church has been extremely supportive of Cooks On A LET'S GET ORGANIZED INC. Mission’s work, providing kitchen and freezer space, and church and community members also have helped out. “River Run Piggly Wiggly is super about giving us the best prices,” Futch said. “We call and tell them what we need, and they immediately put us through to the right department. Western Supermarket has helped us, too. When we made Cuban black beans and pork, they cut up all the pork for us – and that was quite a job.” Hardwick said cooking sessions result in more than just good food. “We almost feel guilty because we To: Emily have so much fun,” she said. From: Over The Mountain Journal, 205-823-9646 ph., Group members were reminded 205-824-1246, fax that they’re making a difference when Date: October Frances Carter, who delivers Backpack Buddies meals, had a chance encounter This is your ad proof from the over the mountain Journal for the with a student. Carter often takes her november 5, 2015 issue. Please contact your sales representative as soon as possible to homeschooled children, third-graders approve your ad or make changes. You may fax approval or changes to 824-1246. Jude and Lorelai, to the school to make Please make sure all information is correct, the deliveries, Futch said. including address and phone number! “A little boy saw them and said, ‘Are you from the church that brings us food?’” Futch said. “It was a chance please initial and fax back within 24 hours. encounter – but fantastic to hear.” If we have not heard from you by 5 pm of the Friday before the press date, your ad will run as is. We print the paper Monday. Stramaglia said the group always LOcATED AT THE TOP OF SHADES MOuNTAIN ON HWy 31, keeps the purpose of its ministry in NEXT TO VESTAVIA HILLS cITy HALL, BISTrO V OFFErS Thank you for your prompt attention. mind. ONE OF THE FINEST cuLINAry EXPErIENcES IN BIrMINgHAM! “God has been so faithful,” she said. Open Monday-Saturday 11am-2pm & 5pm-9pm “It’s all for His glory. That’s why we’re 521 Montgomery Hwy, Vestavia Hills, AL 35216 • (205) 823-1505 here.” ❖
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has tastings to choose recipes for projects. “We needed a chicken pot pie recipe, for example, so we we made several and invited the church staff to try them,” Futch said. Turner said that the majority rules when it comes to picking the winning recipe. “Whatever recipe we bring, we agree that we won’t get our feelings hurt if ours isn’t chosen,” she said. Everyone brings her own strength to the group’s efforts. “Kim Hardwick is meticulous, cutting pastry perfectly,” Futch said. “Miss Edna Israel is usually our chief dishwasher. Frances Carter is our chief scone maker.” Hardwick said the women have forged firm friendships through Cooks On A Mission. “We learn things from each other,” she said. “It’s affected my cooking, but it’s also affected my spiritual journey.”
To: From:
Jeremy Over The Mountain Journal, PHONE: 205-823-9646 FAX: 205-824-1246 Date: July This is your ad proof from the over the mountain Journal for the Jul issue. Please fax approval or changes to 824-1246.
please make sure all information is correct, inclu address and phone number! please initial and fax back within 24 hours.
If we have not heard from you by 5 pm of the Friday before the press date, your ad will run as is. We print the paper Monday.
Thank you for your prompt attention.
for more information please Call mike wedgworth: 205.365.4344
schools
OVER THE MOUNTAIN Journal
Altamont Siblings Advance to Siemens Regional Competition Two students from The Altamont School will advance as regional finalists in the 2015 Siemens Science Competition. Maya Guru, a freshman, and Arjun Guru, a junior, are the only two students in Alabama chosen to advance to this stage of competition, and they happen to be siblings. Because they were selected as regional finalists, they will both be awarded $1,000 scholarships. According to a press release, the competition is the nation’s premier research competition for high school students. The original pool of applicants included more than 1,800 entries. Maya and Arjun, along with 95 other students, will now compete at one of six regional competitions held throughout the country in November.
Photos special to the Journal
36 • Thursday, November 5, 2015
Siblings Maya and Arjun Guru are the only students in Alabama chosen to advance as regional finalists in the Siemens Science Competition. They both attend The Altamont School.
The two students will present their research virtually on Nov. 14 to judges and then participate in a question and answer session about their work. The winners of each regional competition will be awarded $3,000, and winning teams will be awarded $6,000. If they are chosen to advance to the final round, they will travel to Washington, D.C., in December to compete for more than $500,000 worth of scholar-
ships along with two $100,000 grand prizes. “Today’s regional finalists represent an outstanding group of students whose remarkable projects not only demonstrate a very advanced aptitude in STEM research, but represent ideas that address some of today’s most challenging issues,” said David Etzwiler, CEO of Siemens Foundation. ❖
Whiz Kid: Spain Park Student Presents Program at National Conference
Suzan Brandt and the MBJH Ted-Ed club. Brandt will travel to Switzerland in December to attend a TEDx workshop and the TEDGlobal conference.
MBJH Teacher Travels to Geneva for TED Event Suzan Brandt, technology coordinator for Mountain Brook Junior High School, has been selected to attend a TEDx pre-conference workshop in Geneva, Switzerland, in December. She is one of 400 applicants who were chosen and will attend the workshop as well as the TEDGlobal>Geneva event. Previous guest speakers at the Global event include Bill Gates, Brene Brown and Al Gore. Attending these events will allow her to hold a 100+ TEDx event in Mountain Brook. According to school officials, Brandt is looking forward to meeting other organizers from around the world who share a common vision of making an impact on their communities. Previously, Brandt served on the organizational team for TEDxRedMountain and helped facilitate
Birmingham’s first independently organized TEDx event in 2011. She has served as a TEDxBirmingham Educator Fellow and is active in the organization’s professional learning community. Last year, she teamed up with teachers Andrew Cotton, Mariya Breauz and Sharon Flowers to organize the MBJH TED-Ed club, a club that teaches students how to present big ideas in the form of TED Talks. Students who participate in the club have the opportunity to collaborate and connect with students globally to share their big ideas, get feedback and practice their presentation skills. Last May, the MBJH TED-Ed Club asked Brandt to apply for a TEDx license in order to publicly present student’s ideas at official TED talks that are professionally photographed, recorded and live streamed. This license capped the number of attendees to 100 people. ❖
Spain Park High School student Ozair Patel recently had the opportunity to make a presentation at the Wolfram Technology Conference in Illinois. The 17-yearold engineering academy student presented “A Big Data Analytics Platform for STEM Education Using the Wolfram Engine on Raspberry Pi” Ozair Patel on Oct. 22. The Wolfram Conference is presented by Wolfram Research. The company dates back to 1987 and according to their website, is one of the world’s most respected computer, web and cloud software companies as well as a powerhouse of scientific and technical innovation. The conference is attended by professionals hailing from all corners of the globe. STEM professionals compete for coveted spots to present their programs and innovations. Patel worked with UAB Electrical and Computer Engineering department chairman Murat Tanik to develop the platform he presented at the conference. According to Tanik, the platform would allow high school students in the area to learn advanced programming and engineering skills. “We’re very proud that a young man like him worked with us,” Tanik said. “It’s a mutual way of helping--it’s not just
Going for the gold
Photos special to the Journal
that we’re helping him. He’s helping us develop this project for the rest of these high schools, which makes it unique.” Patel’s program would include a Wolfram engine and utilize the Raspberry Pi Model 2, both of which are technologies developed by Wolfram Research Company. Tanik said that Patel’s selection to participate in the conference is a huge honor not only for Patel, but for the Birmingham community. “He gets to spread the name of his high school and our university and Birmingham,” Tanik said. “These people don’t know UAB or know the type of people who live here so they’re very surprised. It’s great PR for us in Chicago.” For more information on the Wolfram Conference, visit www.wolfram.com. —Kaitlin Candelaria
Thursday, November 5, 2015 • 37
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OVER THE MOUNTAIN Journal
Homewood Middle School’s special education students attended the track and field Special Olympics at Trussville High School with other Over the Mountain schools recently. Students also enjoyed participating in running, throwing and jumping events. Students enjoyed a grand send-off at HMS from the other students before competing in the event.
Riley Smith
Journal photo by Lee Walls Jr.
Homecoming celebrations
Vestavia Hills named its homecoming queen during halftime against longtime rival Shades Valley on Oct. 30. Ellie Barrentine, escorted by her father, Steven Barrentine, was crowned to conclude a week of fun activities. The Rebels went on to defeat the Mounties 33-14 and will now go on to the first round of the playoffs.
MBJH’s Riley Smith is Chess Champion
send school news to: editorial@otmj.com
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Riley Smith, an eighth-grader at Mountain Brook Junior High School, came in first place in the K-8 division at the Alabama State Chess Championship held Sept. 5 at Samford University. Kids from central Alabama competed in the tournament’s scholastic division, which includes students in K-12. Nearly 100 students competed in the state tournament. Smith competed last year at the United States Chess Federation National Junior High K-9 Championship in Atlanta, Georgia, where he tied for third place in his division, winning 4.5 of his 5 games. Smith began playing chess in the third grade with an after-school program called “The Knight School” offered at elementary schools in Mountain Brook and Vestavia Hills. He now plays with ChessKidsNation.
SHE SUCCESSFULLY PLAYED THE SAME PRANK ON HER MOTHER THREE TIMES IN A SINGLE DAY AND REMAINS CONFIDENT SHE COULD DO IT AGAIN.
Mouintain Brook High School senior Annie Lovelady was crowned as homecoming queen during halftime of the Oct. 30 game. She was escorted by her cousin and Spartan linebacker, senior Joe Donald. The Spartans football team went on to shutout Huffman 7-0 for their last game of the season.
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38 • Thursday, November 5, 2015
Clockwise from left: Ellie Ritter, Libby Grace Gann, members of the Mountain Brook High School volleyball state championship team, and a very happy Spartans fan.
spartans, From page 40
7A championship, taking the title with a 27-25, 25-23, 25-16 sweep of McGill-Toolen of Mobile at a packed Bill Harris Arena. “It’s hard to compare championships,” said Carr, who was named Tournament Most Valuable Player for the second consecutive year. “Every team is a little bit different. Both championships are equally sweet.” Mountain Brook appeared to be in trouble late in the first set, trailing the Lady Yellow Jackets 23-21. Carr said the team never lost its confidence. “We weren’t worried,” she explained. “Since we’d already scored 21 points, we knew we could score enough to win. In practice, we’re always working in situations where we are trailing late in the match. It’s all about developing mental toughness.” Lady Spartan coach Haven O’Quinn said that winning the first set was an important step for her team. “They can drive me crazy,”
PLAYOFFS, From page 40
gest win in years, and Hoover would like nothing more than a rematch. Despite the Rebels’ earlier victory, the Bucs probably would be favored again. It bears remembering that Vestavia is always dangerous in those situations. At the same time, while this has been a comparatively down year at Hoover, it would be huge mistake to say that Coach Josh Niblett’s team can’t win a fourth title. Vestavia bounced back strongly from last season’s 3-7 mark, putting together an 8-2 record that included the upset of Hoover. The Rebels face top-ranked Bob Jones in the first round, and I wouldn’t be surprised to see Vestavia pull off another upset. As Rebel running back Walker Minor pointed out after the Hoover game, Vestavia is at its best coming from the underdog position. Additionally,
she said, smiling. “But our girls always come on strong at the end. I was pretty confident about those last points.” Mountain Brook also found itself in trouble in the second set, as McGill took a 23-20 lead. The Lady Spartans rallied for five consecutive points to take the victory. “Before the game we talked about the fact that the team might be a little nervous,” Carr said. “That meant things could get a little sloppy at times. But we drew on our experience and our work on practice to just keep going. We wanted every shot to be a little better than the last one.” Mountain Brook dominated the third set to take the victory. Carr finished with 13 kills, 12 digs and two aces. Emmy Kilgore and Caroline Davies each had nine kills. Mitchell added a whopping 39
assists. Lacey Jeffcoat and Selman added 14 digs for Mountain Brook. Mitchell, Selman and Kilgore all joined Carr on the All-Tournament team. Mountain Brook ended its season with a 57-6 record. “I really haven’t thought much about being MVP,” Carr said. “I’m still on cloud nine from winning the championship again. None of it has sunk in yet.” Carr said one difference from last year’s title run is that she is sleeping better at night. “Right after we won last year, I woke up every morning scared to death that winning the championship was all just a dream,” she said. “I haven’t had that problem this year.” All of the Lady Spartans can afford to sleep soundly. The championships are real. And the road to the top may have begun when a new girl
the Rebels usually play well in the post-season against teams from North Alabama. If Coach Buddy Anderson’s squad can get past the Patriots, there’s no telling how far it can go. In Class 6A, Homewood, as co-champion of Region Five, faces Robert E. Lee of Huntsville in the first round. If victorious, Coach Ben Berguson’s team will in all probability draw defending Class 6A champ Clay-Chalkville in the second round. The Cougars, led by former Oak Mountain coach Jerry Hood, haven’t lost a game since 2013 and are probably the state’s strongest reigning high school juggernaut. The Patriots would undoubtedly be an underdog, but at least they would have the opportunity to face the best team in the classification. Briarwood, qualifying for the playoffs with a 4-6 overall record, will have a tough row to hoe. If the Lions can get past Region Seven champion Fort Payne in the first round,
they would face either Hillcrest of Tuscaloosa or Northview of Dothan a week later. Anything beyond that, and Briarwood might catch lightning in a bottle. It was a disappointing year for Oak Mountain, Mountain Brook and John Carroll Catholic as all three failed to qualify for the playoffs. The Eagles – coming off an impressive 10-2 mark in 2014 – fell to 5-5, as Coach Cris Bell continues to build his program toward some consistency. The Spartans suffered through another uncharacteristic 3-7 season and once again had trouble closing the deal in a few close games. Mountain Brook isn’t that far from returning to its accustomed perch in the playoffs, but it still has to get over the proverbial hump. John Carroll didn’t produce a win in 2015, but there is widespread optimism in the Cavalier nation that better times aren’t that far away. Those three programs can start
got a tour of a high school campus. The news wasn’t quite so good for the other area defending champion, as John Carroll Catholic fell to Spanish Fort 25-20, 22-25, 25-21, 22-25 and 15-11 in the Class 6A finals, also at Bill Harris Arena. Kelsi Hobbs had 23 kills while
Morgan Adamson added 13 kills and 22 digs. Mary Catherine Hart added 10 kills, Kaylee Gilchrist had 27 digs and Anna Runyan had 30 assists as the Lady Cavs finished with a 35-10 mark. Adamson, Hobbs and Hart all earned spots on the All-Tournament team. ❖
Defending champion John Carroll Catholic fell to Spanish Fort 25-20, 22-25, 25-21, 22-25 and 15-11 in the Class 6A finals, also at Bill Harris Arena.
preparing for 2016. Meanwhile, Spain Park, Hoover, Vestavia, Homewood and Briarwood still have plenty for which to play. My guess is that one of these teams is going to bring home a blue trophy. Mitchell’s Place, Again
Mountain Brook won its second consecutive Class 7A state volleyball championship last week, ending the careers of three seniors – Sara Carr, Sara Chandler Mitchell and Payton Selman – on the highest note possible. Even days after claiming the title, Mitchell couldn’t quite believe what had happened. “Everything is still surreal,” she said, when contacted the following Saturday, which happened to fall on Halloween. “We were confident we could win, but even when we came back to school on Friday, it hadn’t sunk in.” Mitchell believed that the simple virtue of hard work was the key to the
Spartan championship. “We had fun, but we worked so hard in practice,” she explained. “Coach (Haven) O’Quinn always had us simulate pressure situations that were sure to come up in a close game, so we were ready for anything.” Life without volleyball will be an adjustment, Mitchell admitted. “I think the fact my high school career is over won’t sink in until Monday when we turn in our uniforms,” she said. “It’s going to be strange not to have a practice or game. I guess that’s part of life.” Mitchell said she didn’t have any plans for Halloween. “I don’t know,” she said laughing. “I don’t really have a costume yet.” Maybe Mitchell should have considered wearing her volleyball uniform one last time. After all, for Class 7A opponents, there’s hasn’t been a more frightening sight in the past two years than a Mountain Brook volleyball player. ❖
Thursday, November 5, 2015 • 39
sports
OVER THE MOUNTAIN Journal
‘It’s been kind of wild. I’ve still got about 150 text messages that I need to return.’
Smylie Face By Lee Davis Most PGA players don’t win a tournament in their rookie seasons. Even fewer win their fifth start. Vestavia Hills graduate Smylie Kaufman did both last week. Firing an epic 10-under par 61 in the final round, Kaufman shot a fourday total of 268 to win at the TPC Summerlin Course in Las Vegas on Oct. 25. He started the day seven shots behind the leader. Kaufman, who played college golf at Louisiana State University, played the final 11 holes in nine under with an eagle and seven birdies. He closed in
fine style, sinking a 20-foot birdie putt on the final hole. “The greens were firm and I was putting the ball down the fairway,” Kaufman said just days after the victory. “The pin placements were to my advantage. I thought I had an opportunity to play really well.” Kaufman said he never felt any real pressure during the final day. “When I walked off the 17th green, the tournament leader was on probably the sixth hole so there’s no way I could know what was going to happen,” he said. “All I could do was watch the leaderboard and wait. I didn’t have that big of a gallery – just my grandparents, my
Photo special to the Journal
Ex-Rebel Wins First PGA Event
Firing an epic 10-under par 61 in the final round, Kaufman shot a four-day total of 268 to win at the TPC Summerlin Course in Las Vegas on Oct. 25.
girlfriend and a few other people, so there was never any pressure because I had already finished for the day.” Several golfers – including Tuscaloosa native Patton Kizzire – finished with a total of 269, giving the
victory to Kaufman by one stroke. Kaufman said the hours and days immediately following the tournament have been a whirlwind of activity, including receiving congratulatory messages from family, friends and
acquaintances from everywhere. “It’s been kind of wild,” he said. “I’ve still got about 150 text messages that I need to return.” The fruits of victory are sweet for Kaufman. In addition to a first place prize of more than $1 million, he is guaranteed playing spots in the 2016 Masters, the 2016 PGA Championship and the 2016 Tournament Players Championship. Kaufman said he had no plans for his newly won prize money. “Nothing really,” he said. “Maybe I’ll buy a new car. I won’t change. I’ll be the same Smylie.” Maybe so, but Smylie Kaufman is definitely smiling now. ❖
Journal photo by Lee Walls Jr.
week 10 scores
ALE! CONSTRUCTION REDUCTION S Les s tha n 30 20 15 RA M 15 00 s lef t!
Above: Vestavia’s Toliver Chatwood picks up tough yardage in the Rebels 33-14 win over Shades Valley last Friday. Below: Mountain Brook’s Wilson Higgins breaks away from a Huffman defender in the Spartans 17-0 win over Huffman. More photos at www.otmjsports.com
Playoffs Round 1
Lee-Huntsville (6-4) at Homewood (8-2) Briarwood Christian (4-6) at Fort Payne (8-2) Hazel Green (5-5) at Spain Park (9-1), Buckhorn (6-4) at Hoover (8-2) Vestavia Hills (8-2) at Bob Jones (9-1)
Journal photo by Hal Yeager
Homewood 34, Tuscaloosa County 14 Madison Academy 27, Briarwood 22 Hoover 38, North Marion, Florida 14 Oak Mountain 20, Pell City 14 Spain Park 24, Bessemer City 6
Pros to Coach Baseball Players at Helms Camp Young baseball players can get tips from the pros during the 6th annual Wes Helms Baseball Camp, being held Nov. 7 at Briarwood Christian School. Players from age nine through high school seniors can receive instruction on fielding, hitting, pitching, speed and agility from top professional athletes, including World Series Champion Tim Hudson, who recently retired from the San Francisco Giants; Chris Coughlin with the Chicago Cubs; Mikey White with the Oakland A’s; and Matt Guerrier with the Minnesota Twins. The camp’s founder Wes Helms spent 12 years playing for the MLB, including with the Braves, Marlins, Brewers and Phillies. He now coaches Briarwood’s varsity baseball team. He works with the players on infielding, outfielding and hitting with head coach Steve Renfroe. Helms said the goal of the camp is to teach not just the fundamentals of baseball, but the fundamentals of life. “It is an opportunity for myself and the other players to use the platform of baseball to do God’s work,” Helms said. All proceeds from the camp go to support local charities. Registration still is open for the camp, which will take place Nov. 7 from 9 a.m.-4 p.m. at the school, at 6255 Cahaba Valley Road. To learn more, visit weshelmsbaseballcamp.org. ❖
1624 Montgomery Hwy
www.HooverAutoMall.com
OVER THE MOUNTAIN Journal
Thursday, November 5, 2015
Sports
Week 10 scores P. 39 Smylie Face, Ex-Rebel Wins First PGA Event P. 39 lee davis
Playoff Fever Intriguing Match-ups May Come Later
Journal photos by Marvin Gentry
It seems like we’ve been waiting forever, but the Alabama high school football playoffs finally begin this
Carr was named Tournament MVP for the second consecutive year.
Mountain Brook High School volleyball players celebrate a big play in their championship win over McGill last week. From left: Lacey Jeffcoat, Payton Selman, Sara Carr, Sara Chandler Mitchell and Caroline Davies.
Guide to Winning Spartans Sweep McGill to Earn Second Title; Cavs Lose in Finals
By Lee Davis
More photos at www.otmjsports.com
Seniors Sara Carr and Sara Chandler Mitchell have meant a lot to the Mountain Brook volleyball program, but their first contribution may have been as tour guides. Three years ago, Payton Selman – a rising sophomore with considerable volleyball talent – was looking to transfer to a new school and was considering Mountain Brook. Carr and Mitchell decided to offer their own green and gold welcome mat.
“We met with Payton and even gave her a tour of the school and the volleyball facilities,” Carr recalled. “We clicked from the very beginning. Mountain Brook was the place we wanted her to be.” Whatever skills of persuasion Carr and Mitchell used, they worked. Selman came to Mountain Brook, and the trio helped mold a special piece of Spartan athletic history last Thursday. Now seniors, Carr, Mitchell and Selman led the Lady Spartans to their second consecutive Class See spartans, page 38
weekend. Last week’s season finales were important, but they had the feel of NFL exhibition games in that they meant nothing in the region standings. Now we are back to business, and the first round – as always – is intriguing and fraught with danger for frontrunners. Spain Park enters the post-season as the Class 7A Region Three champion and the classification’s secondranked team. The Jaguars recovered from a heartbreaking opening loss to Austin to win nine straight games, including an impressive 17-0 shutout over defending state champ Hoover. Spain Park will be heavily favored against Hazel Green in the opening round and, if it survives, will meet the Hewitt-Trussville-James Clemens winner. The possibility of a rematch with Hoover or Vestavia Hills could take place in the next round, but it’s far too early to speculate. Suffice it to say the Jags are ranked second in the state for a reason and should be on anyone’s short list of teams with a shot at the Class 7A title. Hoover showed signs of vulnerability this season, suffering region losses to Spain Park and Vestavia Hills in October. As anyone who follows high school football in Alabama understands, the Bucs have won three consecutive Class 7A titles by excelling in November. Hoover is a prohibitive favorite against Region Four’s Buckhorn, and it will face the Vestavia Hills-Bob Jones winner in the second round. The Rebels’ 20-13 upset of the Bucs was Vestavia’s bigSee playoffs, page 38
Holiday Open House at Inverness Highlands! November 12th, from 4-8pm! Located right off 280 on Valleydale Road
Please join Ashley Mac's, Salon M2, Q Nails, Southeastern Jewelers, dwellings, Baker Lamps and Linens, Reform U Pilates and Halo for door prizes, refreshments and lots of Holiday cheer!