OTMJ OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL u OTMJ.COM
SOCIAL
SPORTS
THURSDAY, MAY 18, 2017
MEMORIAL DAY
INSIDE
‘A GEM OF A PLACE’ Former Savage’s Bakery Owner Brings Beauty to Homewood Alleys, Sidewalks. PAGE 10
Photo special to the Journal
God and Country
War Hero to Share His Story During Support Our Soldiers Event
Photo by Lloyd Beard
THE ITALIAN JOB Tour Guide Gives Clients an Inside View of His Native Country. PAGE 28
Retired U.S. Army major Jeff Streucker, left, will tell his story of faith and freedom at the sixth annual Support Our Soldiers Alabama Memorial Day dinner, to be held May 25 at 6 p.m. at Briarwood Christian Church. Alabama veterans will be celebrated during an event at Alabama Veterans Memorial Park, above, that will include patriotic music, a reading of veterans’ names and a dedication of the newest StepStones. See stories beginning on page 14.
SUMMER FASHION PAGE 22
In an emergency, it’s about time. In a medical emergency, every minute matters. So, at Grandview Medical Center, you can look forward to faster care in the emergency room. We work diligently to have you initially seen by a medical professional* in 30 minutes – or less. And, with a team of dedicated medical specialists, we can provide a lot more care, if you need it. *Medical professionals may include physicians, physician assistants and nurse practitioners.
GrandviewHealth.com
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OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL
OPINION/CONTENTS
Photos special to the Journal
MURPHY’S LAW
I Ride Sally, Ride
Bluff Park Students Roll Out for National Bike to School Day The United Way of Central Alabama teamed up with Hoover City Schools for National Bike to School Day on May 10. More than 200 Bluff Park Elementary students in grades K-5 met at Shades Crest Baptist Church an hour before the school day with their bikes. The event was organized to encourage children to be active and bring awareness to the need for local bike infrastructure. “National Bike to School Day is about raising awareness that our communities are both walkable and bike-able,” said Rachael Leonard, United Way Safe Routes coordinator. “We promote that through both our Safe Routes and Healthy Community initiatives with United Way, as well as ongoing events such as the walking school bus and different activities where we coordinate with schools to get kids healthy, active and moving.” Helping guide students to their destination were members of the Hoover High School Mountain Biking team, the Bike Link bike club, parents and members of Bluff Park’s Parent-Teacher Organization, and the Hoover Police Department. ❖
IN THIS ISSUE ABOUT TOWN 3 PEOPLE 6 NEWS 10 LIFE 12 SOCIAL 16
FASHION 22 SUMMER FUN 24 SCHOOLS 26 BUSINESS 28 SPORTS 32
ON OTMJ.COM
There’s so much happening in the Over the Mountain area, we can’t fit it all in the paper! Visit www.otmj.com for more stories and photos.
OVER THE MOUNTAIN
JOU RNAL
May 18, 2017
Publisher & Editor: Maury Wald Copy Editor: Virginia Martin Features Writer: Donna Cornelius Staff Writers: Sarah Kuper, Emily Williams Editorial Assistant: Stacie Galbraith Sports: Lee Davis Contributors: Susan Murphy, Jordan Wald, 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. 27, No. 19
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 mwald@otmj.com. Find us on the Web at otmj.com. Copyright 2017 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.
Wonder Drugs
’m not much for medications. Pick up any magazine. For every oneCatastrophic illness aside, I hold page drug ad, there are two full pages fast to the idea that a hot bath, a of things that can go horribly wrong, bracing cup of tea and a couple extra but I’m guessing most people don’t hours rest on the couch can usually read that bit. They make a mental note of the drug’s name and move turn things around. right on to that month’s recipe for Come spring, however, when the twirly little seed pods cover my lemon meringue pie. driveway and that sticky green pollen When you see drug ads on TV, is everywhere, my respiratory system however, the side effects are presentgoes into high revulsion alert and I ed right along with the pie. Oh sure, have to go to my GP for pharmaceutithey show you the nice lady who can now enjoy the pie because of the cal reinforcements. wonder drug she’s taken and, all the She doesn’t give me anything big, while, a calm, pleasant voice tells you just your garden (or anti-garden) variabout all of the ways the drug might ety nasal spray. But, I have to tell Sue Murphy mistakenly cause a person to never you, the first time I picked up the eat pie again. The commercials prescription at the pharmacy, I always end with, “Ask your doctor wondered if I shouldn’t just give For every one-page about ZippidyDoosamab” and, if the tea/bath/couch thing another chance. You see, being the chronic drug ad, there are two you’re still thinking about the pie, you say, “Sounds good.” But if you Goodie-two-shoes that I am, I full pages of things are really paying attention, you made the mistake of thoroughly have to be thinking, “Um, maybe reading the information sheet that can go horribly tucked inside the box. not.” wrong, but I’m Now, I know that drug manuThere are wonder drugs out facturers get sued more than even guessing most people there for certain, but you have to Wal-Mart and McDonald’s, so I wonder about the mechanics of it don’t read that bit. understand the need to transfer as all. How can a medication bring on much of the decision-making both constipation and diarrhea? responsibility onto the patient’s How can it simultaneously help shoulders as possible. But this was more than I had ease your clinical depression and cause you to have bargained for, even with my measly little copay. There increased thoughts of suicide? If it’s supposed to were 500 words of warning … for a nasal spray. strengthen your bones, why is there a chance that it There was a chance that I could have an allergic could cause a surprise break in your femur? reaction. My throat could close, my chest could go If the medication is something you really need, you have to just close your eyes (check your vision first) tight, I could have trouble breathing. My body might and take a chance, hoping that you will be one of the be covered in welts, my tongue might swell, I might lucky ones for whom the drug just goes in, does its experience a sudden deterioration of my vision. Drugs are not darts. They don’t have pinpoint ailjob and leaves the rest of you alone. ment accuracy. They go into your system and just kind For the record, my nasal spray worked out just of meander around, and like a 2-year-old in a china fine, although I have to tell you, I read through the eye chart every once in a while, just to be on the safe shop, they can create all kinds of havoc. These little side. ❖ accidents are lovingly referred to as “side effects.”
OVER THE MOUNTAIN VIEWS
What local event this summer are you most looking forward to? “Baron’s games, I like to take the kids.” Chelsey Suttles Cahaba Heights
“Sloss Fest, we love the music.” Morgan Holladay with son Foster Homewood “Events at breweries, they are fun.” Caroline Johnson Homewood
Check out OTMJ’s guide to Summer Fun events in the Magic City, beginning on page 24!
OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL
Photos special to the Journal
2016 Champion, Bernhard Langer is scheduled to return to defend his title.
MAY 18 - JUNE 1 Thurs., May 18 MOUNTAIN BROOK
Jazz with Civitaz English Village The village will host another installment of this seasonal event from 5-8 p.m., featuring complimentary beverages, merchant specials and jazz performances. For more information, visit welcometomountainbrook.com.
May 18-28 BIRMINGHAM
“Dreamgirls” RMTC Cabaret Theatre The Red Mountain Theatre Company will perform this Tony-award winning Motown-inspired musical Thurs.Sat. at 7:30 p.m. and Sat. and Sun. at 2 p.m. Tickets begin at $19. For more information, visit redmountaintheatre.org.
Thursday, May 18, 2017 • 3
ABOUT TOWN HOOVER
Regions Tradition, May 17-21 Greystone Golf & Country Club The Regions Tradition brings together 78 of the top PGA TOUR Champions players and World Golf Hall of Fame Members to compete for a major championship. The tournament will begin play at 7 a.m. each day. A spectator village, open to the public will offer food, cocktails, beer, music and more. Tickets begin at $20. Children ages 18 and under are admitted free. For more information, visit regionstradition.com. ❖
Veterans Park The library will kick off summer reading with this 5k beginning at 8 a.m. A celebration will continue until 5 p.m. and includes inflatables, crafts, games, airbrush tattoos, a petting zoo and more. For more information, visit hooverlibrary.org. BIRMINGHAM
Miles for Marine Mammals Birmingham Zoo The 12th annual 5k begins at 7:30 a.m. in the Zoo parking lot and finishes in Trails of Africa. A kid’s race will begin at 8 a.m. in the Junior League of Birmingham – Hugh Kaul Children’s Zoo. Registration is $30 for the 5k and $15 for the kid’s race. For more information, visit birminghamzoo.com. BIRMINGHAM
Do Dah Day Caldwell Park The annual dog parade will kick off
BESSEMER
Bob Sykes Blues Festival Debardeleben Park The 8th annual barbecue and blues festival will begin at noon with gates opening at 11 a.m. The event, hosted by Bob Sykes Bar B Q, will include local and national blues musicians, a free kids corner with activities and games, as well as a variety of booths offering various crafts, giveaways and more. Tickets begin at $15. Kids ages 12 and under enter for free. Form more information, visit bobsykesblues.com.
Sun., May 21 MOUNTAIN BROOK
Summer Reading Kickoff Carnival Emmet O’Neal Library A fun run and carnival – including a train ride, face painting, game booths, rock-climbing wall, bouncy house and concessions – will kick off this year’s summer reading program, sponsored by the library and the Junior Women’s Committee of 100. The theme of this year’s program, which begins May 30, is “Build A Better World.” The fun run
begins at 3 p.m. outside the library, and the carnival begins at 3:30 p.m. For information, visit: eolib.org/.
Tues., May 23 HOMEWOOD
Race Into Reading Homewood Library The library will kick off its summer reading programs with a one-mile fun run at 6 p.m. benefiting the Homewood Library Foundation. Registration for the race is $10 for individuals or $20 for a
A SALE THIS BIG ONLY HAPPENS ONCE A YEAR.
May 19-21 BIRMINGHAM
Barber Historics Barber Motorsports Park The Historic Motorsports Association presents this event featuring cars made up until the 1980s for show and competing in a 2.38 mile long road course. The sports/racing car swap meet will be open all weekend and a Hendrick Automotive Group car show featuring some the South’s most exotic cars. For more information, visit barbermotorsports.com.
Sat., May 20 VESTAVIA HILLS
Wing Ding Challenge and Festival Vestavia Hills City Hall Leadership Vestavia Hills presents this hot wing challenge and festival from 11:30 a.m.-2:30 p.m. Tickets are available at the gate and are $5, children 10 and under are free. For more information, visit leadershipvestaviahills.com. HOOVER
Hoover Library 5k
at 11:01 a.m. on Highland Avenue. Awards will recognize winners in a variety of categories. Festivities will take place in both Caldwell Park and Rhodes Park. Entry fees are $5 per walker and $10 per animal. All proceeds benefit local animal charities. For more information, visit dodahday. org. NORTH SHELBY
Cahaba Lily Festival Cahaba Lily Center The center will host its annual celebration of the Cahaba Lily, which usually blooms once a day between late May and early June. The event begins at 8 a.m. and will feature a presentation by botanist Larry Davenport. Festivities include $20 canoe rentals, storytelling and musical entertainment beginning at 3:15 p.m. For more information, visit cahabalily.com.
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OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL
ABOUT TOWN
and the Firebirds, characters from the Birmingham Barons, games, animals from the Birmingham Zoo, a kid zone, live aircraft form the Southern Museum of Flight, Magic Town Clowns, a bounce house, rock wall, free ice cream and cookies and more. Admission is $8 for adults and $6 for children. For more information, visit visitvulcan.com.
VESTAVIA HILLS
VIVA Health Starlight Gala Sun., May 21 Alys Stephens Center UAB’s Alys Stephens Performing Arts Center presents its 20th anniversary concert and gala featuring Itzhak Perlman from 6-10 p.m. Perlman has been honored with 16 Grammy awards, four Emmy awards, a Kennedy Center honor, a Grammy Lifetime Achievement award, a Genesis Prize and the Presidential Medal of Freedom. Proceeds will benefit the Alys Stephens Center. Tickets are $150 and include a pre-performance cocktail reception. A VIP dinner is also available. For more information, visit alysstephens.org. ❖ family of four and includes a bouncy house and a Zumbatonic pre-race workout. For more information, visit homweoodpubliclibrary.org.
Thurs., May 25 BIRMINGHAM
Driving After Dark Highland Park Golf Course This night golf benefit hosted by the United Cerebral Palsy of Greater Birmingham Junior Board will begin at 4 p.m. with the first nine holes, followed by a break to enjoy dinner, drinks and live music. The last nine holes of the tournament will be played in the dark with glow-in-the-dark golf balls and fluorescent lights. Teams of four are $600 and include 18 holes of golf, dinner, drinks and player appreciation packages. For more information, visit ucpbham.presencehost.net. BIRMINGHAM
BBQ Cook-Off Brasfield & Gorrie 3021 7th Ave. South Brasfield & Gorrie presents this outdoor street festival featuring competing grill teams, live music, food trucks and a kids’ zone featuring face painting and games. Proceeds from the event will benefit local nonprofit organizations with programming that serves veterans. These organizations include Aletheia House, Priority Veteran, and Salvation Army. General Admission tickets are $12 adults and children 12 and up. For more information, visit brasfieldgorrie.instagift.com.
Sat., May 27 BIRMINGHAM
Salsa Showdown Cahaba Brewing Co. Alagasco presents the 7th annual fundraiser to benefit Sidewalk Film Festival from 2-6 p.m. There will be
Tues., June 6 HOMEWOOD
Photos special to the Journal
BIRMINGHAM
Summer Reading Kickoff Thurs., June 1 Library in the Forest The library will host a party beginning at 10:30 a.m. in the community room celebrating summer with a theatrical performance for all ages featuring Doug Berky. There will be mask, mime and stories form around the world as well as free Kona Ice. A Global Movements performance will take place in the amphitheater at 6:30 p.m. with hot dogs starting at 6 p.m. For more information, visit vestavialibrary.org. ❖
salsa, guac, queso and specialty dip tastings from restaurants across Alabama as well as live entertainment, kid’s activities, piñata smashes and hot pepper eating contest. Tickets are $10 in advance and $15 at the door. Children 5 and under are free. For more information, visit sidewalkfest.com.
June 1-3 BIRMINGHAM
Steel City Jazz Festival Linn Park Gates to the fourth annual jazz festival will open Fri. at 4 p.m. with the show beginning at 5 p.m. and Sat. at 10 a.m. with the show beginning at
passes are $150 and one day passes are available at reduced rates. A portion of every ticket sale will benefit Ronald McDonald House Charities of Alabama. For more information, visit steelcityjazzfestbham.com.
Cooling Station, roaming New Orleans street performers, a giant connect four, face painting and balloon art followed by a full lineup of musical artists playing sets throughout the evening. Tickets in advance are $25, $35 at the gate. Children 12 and younger are free. For more information, visit slicefest.com.
Fri., June 2
HOMEWOOD
BIRMINGHAM
Young CPA Charity Golf Tournament Robert Trent Jones Golf TrailOxmoor Valley The annual tournament will kick off with participants from the Exceptional Foundation taking over the putting green and driving range. Registration begins at 8 a.m. with a light breakfast and a 9 a.m. shotgun start. Be sure to stick around for the 19th hole and enjoy drinks, food, music and tournament awards. For more information, visit ascpa.org.
Sat., June 3 BIRMINGHAM
11 a.m. The event will feature artists from around the country. A kick-off event Thurs. at 6 p.m. at the Harbert Center will feature Grammy-nominated musician Alvin Garret (above) and Logan the Entertainer. Two day
SliceFest Lakeview District Slice Pizza & Brewhouse host the 6th annual SliceFest to benefit The Suki Foundation, a non-profit dedicated to helping families cope with Rhett Syndrome. Activities will include a 47-foot ferris wheel by Cashio’s Meatball Market, Tito’s Dog Park, Avaite
Lakeshore’s Amazing Race Lakeshore Foundation Lakeshore’s Junior Board presents an event modeled after the popular show to benefit Lakeshore Foundation. Teams of four will be assembled representing a variety of age groups and affiliations. Teams will “race” through Lakeshore’s 45-acre campus completing interactive challenges and competing for prizes. Registration is at 8 a.m. with the race beginning at 9 a.m. There will be food trucks, drinks, live entertainment and prizes. Entry fee is $75 per person. For more information, visit lakeshoresamazingrace.swellgives. com.
Sun., June 4 BIRMINGHAM
Birthday Bash Vulcan Park and Museum The museum will host a 113th birthday party from noon-4 p.m. featuring music by by George Griffin
BIRMINGHAM
Rickwood Classic Wed., May 31 Rickwood Field The Birmingham Barons and The Friends of Rickwood will host the 22nd annual game at 12:30 p.m., celebrating “The Fabulous Fifties.” The game will feature the Birmingham Barons against the Chattanooga Lookouts, Double-A affiliate of the Minnesota Twins. Former MLB All-Star and Baseball Hall of Famer Juan Marichal (pictured) will be the special guest of honor and available for autographs during the game. General admission tickets are $10. For more information, visit rickwoodclassic.com. ❖
West Homewood Farmers Market 160 Oxmoor Road West Homewood will host its farmers market every Tues. evening from 5-8 p.m. in June, July and the first Tuesday in August. Food trucks will be featured by Cantina, Saw’s BBQ, Heavenly Donuts and Old Town Pizza, 10+ local farms will be represented, arts and crafts vendors and music. For more information, visit westhomewood.com. BIRMINGHAM
Party at the Parks Railroad Park Alabama Baptist Children’s Homes & Family Ministries will host the third annual Party at the Parks event from 4-6 p.m. to celebrate foster families and raise awareness about the needs of children in foster care. This free event will include inflatables, photos with princesses and superheroes, face painting, yard games, snow cones, music, and popcorn. After the fun at the park, enjoy the Barons game. Tickets can be purchased at barons.com. For more information, visit alabama child. org.
June 9-10 BIRMINGHAM
Magic City Brewfest Sloss Furnaces The 11th annual festival, presented by Free the Hops, will be June 9 from 7-11 p.m. and June 10 from 4-8 p.m. Activities include samples of more than 150 craft beers. J. Clyde will sponsor the Alabama Cask Garden, featuring firkins from all of the Alabama breweries. For more information, visit magiccitybrewfest.com.
June 9-11 BIRMINGHAM
Symphony in the Summer Railroad Park The ASO is returning to Railroad Park to play three free concerts begin at 8 p.m. on Friday and Saturday and 6 p.m. on Sunday, featuring classical music with a Pops! concert on Sunday. For more information, visit alabamasymphony.org.
Sat., June 10 BIRMINGHAM
Cahaba River Ramble Cahaba River National Wildlife Refuge The Cahaba River Society will host its 5k and 10 mile trail race through the Cahaba River National Wildlife Refuge to benefit the Shane Hulsey CLEAN Environmental Education Program of The Cahaba River Society. Registration begins at 6:30 a.m. and the race begins at 7:30 a.m. Admission is $40 for the 5k and $50 for the 10-mile.
Continued on page 5
OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL
Thursday, May 18, 2017 • 5
ABOUT TOWN
Tee Up!
Gala chairs Ann-Dee Bailey, left, and Nicole Reed.
Hoping for a Cure
Hope Gala Uses Dinner, Dancing and Competitive Shopping to Raise Cancer Funds
Plans are in the works to organize the 37th annual Hope Gala, which will raise money for cancer research and American Cancer Society patient programs. The event, set for Aug. 19, will begin with cocktails and a silent auction, then progress to a seated dinner, live auction and a paddle raise to support the Hope Lodge. Guests then can dance the night away to the sounds of the Schmohawks. Patient programs funded through the event include Road to Recovery and Look Good Feel Better, according to a statement from the society. Gala chairs Ann-Dee Bailey and Nicole Reed are making plans for the evening and organizing the gala women’s committee, which will gather auction items and help with decorations. If you would like to attend or support the Hope Gala, please visit: hopegalabirmingham.org or contact Libba Hardwick at 930-8883. ❖ From page 4 There will also be a one-mile youth race for $20.` For more information, visit cahabariversociety.org.
Sat., June 10 HOOVER
Hydrangeas Under the Stars Aldridge Gardens Aldrige Gardens will host its annual
fundraiser and garden gala from 5-9 p.m. The event will feature food, entertainment and silent and live auctions. The reception and silent auction begin at 6 p.m. and dinner and the live auction begin at 7 p.m. Individual tickets are $250. For more information, visit aldridgegardens.com. ❖
SEND ABOUT TOWN TO: EDITORIAL@OTMJ.COM
The 2017 Tee It Up Fore Life golf tournament, a fundraiser for the American Cancer Society, will be held June 12 at Old Overton Club and include lunch, a round of golf and an auction. University of Alabama head basketball coach Avery Johnson is this year’s honoree. Johnson lost both of his parents to cancer, and raising awareness and money to find a cure is important to him. Johnson grew up the ninth child in a family with 10 kids in New Orleans’ Lafitte housing project. He now is known for his motivational speeches and his motto, “Buckle Up.” Johnson has been head coach at UA since 2015. Before that, he led the San Antonio Spurs to the 1999 NBA title and was named 2006 NBA Coach of the Year. The tournament is being presented by Medical Properties Trust. To donate or register a team, visit teeitupforelifebirmingham.org or contact Libba Hardwick at libba.hardwick@ cancer.org. ❖
Photo special to the Journal
Photo by Mary Margaret Smith Photography
Golf Tournament Raises Money for Cancer Society
To: Leaf and Petal From: Over The Mountain Journal, phone 205-823-9646, fax 205-824-1246 Date: April This is your AD PROOF from the OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL for the May 5, 2017 issue. Please fax approval or changes to 824-1246. This year’s Tee It Up Fore Life honoree, University of Alabama head basketball coach Avery Johnson, lost both of his parents to cancer.
It's Time to Grill!
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Please make sure all information is correct, N Eaddress W, Including and phone number!
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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.
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6 • Thursday, May 18, 2017
Pocketing Passion
OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL
PEOPLE
Cassidy Bonner, center, Hands On Birmingham’s Volunteer of the Year. Drew Langloh; United Way, left; and Benga Harrison, Hands on Birmingham, right.
‘ROLL UP YOUR SLEEVES’
Photos special to the Jouornal
Nearly 1,500 guests opened their purses and wallets to support the YWCA of Central Alabama’s mission at the 18th annual Purse and Passion Luncheon. This year’s event was held April 20 at the Sheraton Birmingham Hotel, following the theme “Gifts of Grace.” “We are overwhelmed by the support of our generous community,” YWCA CEO Yolanda Sullivan said. “The YW serves some of the most vulnerable in our community, and we are so grateful for everyone who invested in their lives. Our programs are life-changing and life-saving, but we could not make the impact we do without such compassionate partners.” Guests watched video stories of YW clients who have found their way back to stability, thanks to gifts they received at the YWCA. Stories included that of Jordan and Tami, both domestic violence survivors who found strength while staying at a YW emergency shelter. The story of the Ashley family also was held up. They
Photos special to the Jouornal
YWCA Hosts Luncheon Highlighting Gifts of Grace
Hands On Hosts First Annual Community Volunteer Awards
From left: Ricki Kline, Yolanda Sullivan, Sheryl Kimerling and Eleanor Griffin.
Co-chairs for the 2016 luncheon were Tracey Morant Adams, Paige Daniel and Andrea McCaskey. Steering Committee members were Dalton Blankenship, Lajuana Bradford, Maggie Brooke, Lisa Burton, Nancy Burton, Myla Calhoun, April Deal, Jill Deer, Jennifer Evans, Tammy Fincher, Brenda Hackney, Kathryn Harbert, Sheryl Kimerling, Ricki Kline, Lynn LaRussa, Lisa Miller, Dot Mueller, Carla Roberson, Kim Rogers, Holly Stiles, Debbie White and DeValerie Williams.
Nearly 100 corporate sponsors, including presenting sponsors Belk, Inc. and Harbert Management Corp., supported the YW’s efforts to create a more caring community. Major support for the luncheon came from Alabama Media Group; Alabama Power Company; Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Alabama; Ebsco Industries, Inc.; Protective Life Corp.; Red Diamond; Regions Financial Corp.; Altec, Inc.; McKinney Capital; PNC; and Publix Super Markets Charities. ❖
Yolanda Sullivan and Henrietta Emack.
found stability at the YW’s Interfaith Hospitality House after losing everything through a cycle of debt that began with a payday loan. Luncheon co-chair Paige Daniel asked guests in attendance to make their own gift of grace to help those in need of the YW’s services. “One of our favorite definitions of grace is “showing love, kindness, compassion, mercy or favor to benefit or serve another,” she said. “We all have the opportunity to do that today.
2017 Steering Committee, front, from left: Lisa Burton, Jennifer Evans, Jill Deer, Dot Mueller and Lajuana Bradford. Back: Yolanda Sullivan, Dalton Blankenship, Tracey Morant Adams, Paige Daniel, Andrea McCaskey and DeValerie Williams.
Hands On Birmingham recognized unsung, dedicated, “roll up your sleeves” volunteers with its inaugural Ignite award. The event was hosted by the organization, a volunteer initiative of United Way of Central Alabama, with seven volunteers receiving awards. “The volunteer engagement strategies of Hands On Birmingham and United Way of Central Alabama produce quality outcomes in our communities that we all enjoy,” Drew Langloh, president and CEO of United Way of Central Alabama, said in a statement. “Their service has a positive ripple effect that will last forever.” “In the spirit of volunteerism, you shouldn’t wait for opportunities to come to you. Today’s honorees found ways to enhance the community around them and they serve as role models to those coming behind us,” said Benga Harrison, director of Hands On Birmingham. The candidates were nominated by coworkers, friends, relatives and nonprofit professionals. Cassidy Bonner, with the Salvation Army, was honored as Hands On Birmingham’s Volunteer of the Year. “If there’s a need in the community, I’m going to try to be there. People shouldn’t have to stress out about who’s going to help them in a time of need,” said Bonner. “That’s the key thing is they shouldn’t have to stress about the money or physical labor. I just want to be there.” Winners of the awards in various categories were: Charlotte Conoway of TechLinks, corporate; Anna James of Independent Presbyterian Church, faithbased; Fredrick Jackson of the Killough Springs Neighborhood Association, governmental; Whitney Saunders of the Junior League of Birmingham, nonprofit; Jairo Vargas of Latino News LLC, small business; and Robyn Gulley of Birmingham-Southern College, student. Each of the “Hands on Fire” Ignite awards is a sculpture representation of the Ignite logo that was designed by local glass artist Amy Soverow. ❖
Shannon Adams, Steve Holmes and Shelby Kimerling.
Anna James
Whitney Saunders
Fredrick Jackson
Jairo Vargas
Robyn Gulley
Charlotte Conoway
OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL
PEOPLE
Thursday, May 18, 2017 • 7
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Buyer’s incentive of $7,500 toward lot options for basement homesites, Liberty Park Joint Venture, LLP, is applicable to homes built by LifeScape Builders, LLC. Such incentive will be disclosed in the sales contract and included on the Closing Disclosure in the transaction. This offer applies only to contracts finalized by May 31st, 2017 and cannot be combined with any other incentives or offers. The information contained herein should be deemed accurate but not warranted. Liberty Park Joint Venture, LLP, Liberty Park Properties, and their respective builders and agents are not responsible for errors or omissions.
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8 • Thursday, May 18, 2017
Troop 83 Scouts Earn Eagle Rank
Three members of Boy Scout Troop 83, chartered by Dawson Baptist Church, were recognized at an Eagle Court of Honor on April 23. Josh Holland, Brian Young and Andrew Young were recognized during the ceremony in the social hall at Dawson. Josh Holland began his scouting career in first grade Josh Holland as a Tiger Cub with Homewood’s Cub Scout Pack 386. In his scouting career, he earned the Arrow of Light and, in addition to all scout requirements, attended Philmont Scout Ranch in 2013, completing a 75-mile hiking trek and climbing Mount Baldy. For his Eagle Scout project, Holland built six permanent hydration stations throughout the Camp Dawson property in Calera, where he attended camp as an elementary student and has worked for the past four years. Camp Dawson is a ministry of Dawson Memorial Baptist Church that allows many groups from the community access to climbing walls, ropes courses, archery, swimming and other outdoor activities. Holland attends Homewood High School, where he has been a member of the school’s golf team since 2013, earning a varsity letter. He is involved in the youth ministry and the high school choir at Dawson, and he participated in a choir mission tour to Denver, Colorado and Austin, Texas. Holland is the son of Chris and Michelle Holland of Homewood and the grandson of Alan and Judy Colvin of Pelham and Hugh and Jan Holland of Hamilton. His brother, Jacob, also a Troop 83 Eagle Scout and 2015 graduate of Homewood High School, read the invocation at the ceremony. Brian Young joined Troop 83 in 2010, crossing over from Cub Scout Pack 1 in Vestavia Hills. In his scouting career, Young has earned 21 merit badges, an Arrow of Light and the Heavy Shoulder award, and he served in several leadership positions. He also took part in a spring break backpacking trip to the Great Smoky Brian Young Mountains, two backpacking trips to Mount Rogers, Virginia, and a 75-mile trek at Philmont Scout Ranch. For his Eagle Project, Young built a 48-by-48-foot crop garden at the Homewood Community Gardens and irrigated it. The garden is now used by the special education classes at Homewood Middle School. He is a senior at Vestavia Hills High School and a member of Dawson’s Chapel Choir, and he helps lead a Bible study. In the fall, he will be attending The University of the South, where
OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL
PEOPLE he will be a Hippocrates Fellow and pursue degrees in biology and premedicine. Andrew Young joined Troop 83 in 2010, crossing over from Pack 1 in Vestavia Hills, where he enjoyed fishing, hiking, camping, canoeing, spelunking and Pinewood Derbies. In his scouting career, he earned 20 merit badges, an Arrow of Light and the Heavy Shoulder award and held several leadership positions in the troop. Young participated in backpacking, white water rafting and camporee at Tannehill State Park each year. He hiked 75 miles through Philmont Scout Ranch. For his Eagle Project, Young built a pavilion at Camp Dawson to protect participants in outdoor activities from the sun and rain. Camp Dawson is where he attended Dawson Day Camp each year in grade school and he continues to serve as a camp Andrew Young counselor. A senior at Vestavia Hills High School, Young also is a member of the Chapel Choir at Dawson Baptist Church and recently spent his spring break doing mission work in the Dominion Republic. He will be attending UAB in the fall with plans to transfer to Auburn University. Both Andy and Brian Young are the sons of Clarke and Jill Young of Vestavia Hills.
Evans and Sisson are finishing their junior year at Mountain Brook High School. Evans is a member of the Interact Club, Future Business Leaders of America, The Sword and Shield newspaper staff, Mu Alpha Theta, Spanish Honor Society and the National Honor Society. He is a member of Cathedral Church of the Advent, where he serves as an acolyte. Through the high school, Sisson is a member of Hamp Sisson the football and basketball teams, outreach officer for First Priority, SGA representative, Relay for Life Club junior chairman, National Honor Society, Spanish Honor Society, Mu Alpha Theta and the Interact Club. He is an active member of Canterbury Methodist Church and youth group and of BigTime Ministries. Evans is the son of Janie and Wally Evans and the grandson of Trudy Evans, Mary Jane Ernest, Anne Howard and the late Dr. Walter Evans and Dr. Pete Howard. Sisson is the son of Tommy and Leigh Ann Sisson and the grandson of Lois and Jim Caldwell, Laura Sisson and the late Jerry Sisson, Martha Ann Sisson and Joe Alexander.
Mountain Brook’s Evans and Sisson Earn Eagle Scout Rank
Griffin Robert Walker of Oak Mountain achieved the rank of Eagle Scout and was honored at a Court of Honor Ceremony on May 6. Walker is a member of Troop 538, under the leadership of Scoutmasters Scot Pitman and Rodney Cox at Asbury United Methodist Church. In his scouting career, he has earned 23 merit badges, the Arrow of Light and the Heavy Shoulders award. He completed the God and Family program, was inducted into the Order of the Arrow and has held various leadership positions, including senior patrol leader. He completed the BSA Lifeguard Certification and has served as a lifeguard at a local country club. With his troop, Walker participated in trips to the Florida National High Griffin Walker Adventure Sea Base in Islamorada, Florida, and the Philmont Scout Ranch in Cimarron, New Mexico. For his Eagle Scout Service Project, Griffin designed, built and installed two benches and a picnic table outside the main entrance of the North Shelby Public Library. Walker is a junior at Oak Mountain High School, where he serves on the Relay for Life Committee and plays lacrosse on a local club team. He is the son of Randy and Robin Walker.
Henry Evans and Hamp Sisson of Canterbury United Methodist’s Troop 63 have earned the rank of Eagle Scout and were recognized in an Eagle Court of Honor ceremony April 30 at Canterbury Chapel. Evans and Sisson both have served in a number of leadership roles within Troop 63. Evans served as librarian, assistant patrol Henry Evans leader, patrol quartermaster and patrol leader. Sisson served as troop guide, assistant senior patrol leader and assistant patrol leader. Both Evans and Sisson raised funds needed for the Eagle projects and recruited relatives, other scouts and friends to help complete them. Evans’ project involved demolishing and rebuilding a large potting shed for the Fern Society at the Birmingham Botanical Gardens. The new shed will provide a covered location for volunteers to pot plants. For his project, Sisson built and installed three benches in the Alabama Wilds section of the Birmingham Zoo. The sensory-friendly area is designed to enhance the experience of visitors who have sensory disorder, such as Autism spectrum disorders.
Oak Mountain’s Walker Earns Eagle Scout Honor
Kezar Awarded $15,000 Scholarship for Vet School
Sarah Kezar, a student at Auburn University College of Veterinary Medicine, is one of 100 doctoral students nationwide selected to receive a $15,000 Scholar Award from the P.E.O. Sisterhood. Kezar is the daughter of Drs. Edwin and Laura Kezar and a 2006 graduate of Altamont School. She received her bachelor’s in biomedical engineering with a concentration in leadership from the University of Virginia and her master’s in biomedical engineering from the University of Alabama at Birmingham. She is pursuing an interest in the concept of One Health, which centers on the intertwined nature of human, animal and environmental health. The P.EO. Scholar Award provides substantial merit-based Sarah Kezar awards to women pursuing a doctoral level degree. Kezar was sponsored by Chapter P of Birmingham.
Hoover Grad Appointed to US Coast Guard Academy
Cole Williams, a 2017 graduate of Hoover High School, recently was appointed to the United States Coast Guard Academy. In his high school career, Williams was named a member of Mu Alpha Theta and the National Honor Society. He also served as team captain of the school’s varsity soccer team. Williams will report to the academy, located in New London, Connecticut, on June 26. While there, he will Cole Williams study naval architecture and marine engineering, with plans to pursue a career in ship design and engineering. In addition, Williams was recruited by USCGA coach Chris Parsons to play varsity soccer at the academy.
Homewood Rotary Club Names Foundation for Longtime Member
The Rotary Club of Homewood recently recognized Bill “Bilbo” Crawford, a longtime member and retired business executive, by naming its educational foundation the Bill Crawford Education Foundation. Since 1983, the club’s foundation has awarded more than $220,000 in college scholarships to about 120 area high school seniors. Crawford, who turned 90 on April 5, received a plaque marking the honor during an April 6 ceremony. A resolution noted the foundation’s commitment to the support of education
and other community endeavors and said Crawford “has served faithfully and selflessly to lead and guide the efforts of the foundation for over 30 years.” “Bill was instrumental in the creation of the Educational Foundation, served as its founding chairman and kept the club focused on the foundation’s primary goal of providing college scholarship assistance along with other good and worthy projects in the Homewood community,” said current foundation Bill “Bilbo” Chairman Mike Crawford O’Kelley. A Rotarian since 1961, Crawford began his membership with the Shades Valley Rotary Club and has achieved 48 years of perfect attendance at the club’s weekly meetings. In 1982, he became a charter member and first president of the Homewood Rotary Club. He has since served a second term as president. The Birmingham businessman retired in 1995, when he sold his office supply and furniture business, Crawford Inc. Through the years, he has been active in the Birmingham Chamber of Commerce, the Alabama School for the Deaf and Blind Foundation board and the Lakeshore Foundation Board. He is a Mason and a Shriner and a member of Lakeside Baptist Church.
Local Student First in Alabama to Win FTC Dean’s List Award
On April 21, Elizabeth Bray, a junior at Stonecreek Montessori Academy, won the First Tech Challenge Robotics Dean’s List Award at the 2017 World Championship in Houston, Texas. Bray was one of only 10 winners worldwide, selected from 145 finalists. She is the first student from Alabama to receive this award. First was founded by Segway creator Dean Kamen in 1989, and in 2010, the Dean’s List Award began as a way to recognize students who showcase superior passion for and effectiveness at attaining First ideals. More than 50,000 students participate in FTC competitions each year, of which 145 are named finalists and travel to the World Championships. Bray has competed in First Robotics since the age of seven and has competed at the First Lego League Jr., First Lego League and FTC levels, winning multiple team awards over the years. She was nominated by her team, FTC Team #7022, the Robostangs, for the Dean’s List award and went through an interview and judging process at the Alabama state FTC championship in January. She was one of two Alabama students to be named a finalist for the award and the first from the state to win it. Bray has been given a free trip to First headquarters in New Hampshire, along with a free summer session at Worcester Polytechnic Institute in Massachusetts, in addition to other rewards.
OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL
Thursday, May 18, 2017 • 9
PEOPLE
Mountain Brook Girl Named Among Top Youth Volunteers in the US
COLLIER’S
Photo special to the Journal
Mountain Brook High School’s Elizabeth Lipp was one of 100 teens from across the country recently honored as top youth volunteers during a ceremony in Washington, D.C. Elizabeth, a 16-year-old junior, received a Prudential Spirit of Community Award and $1,000 prize, along with personal congratulations from Olympic gold medalist Michael Phelps, during a ceremony and gala dinner held at the Smithsonian’s National Museum of Natural History. The Prudential Spirit of Community Awards program is sponsored by Prudential Financial in partnership with the National Association of Secondary School Principals, according to a statement from the company. In addition to cash awards, the volunteers each received an engraved silver medallion and an all-expense-paid trip with a parent to Washington, D.C., for four days of recognition events. Elizabeth is co-president of a club that brings special education students together with her school’s general student body to improve social skills and foster friendships and a respect for differences. Since junior high school, Elizabeth has been involved in outreach programs for special education students. So when she got to high school, she immediately gravitated toward a service club called Circle of Friends, which works to help students with disabilities and their nondisabled peers get to know each other and feel more comfortable in social situations. “It was a dying club,” said Elizabeth. “I fought endlessly to revive
Nursery
Celebrating 20 Years 1997-2017
Mountain Brook’s Elizabeth Lipp gets a personal congratulation from Olympic gold medalist Michael Phelps, during a ceremony and gala dinner held at the Smithsonian’s National Museum of Natural History.
interest from the student body.” With the support of school administrators, Elizabeth organized a Circle of Friends Celebration Week to honor teachers and students in the special education department. For the celebration, she and her volunteers solicited donations from local businesses, persuaded community members to donate meals and organized special events. She then began running monthly breakfast socials for club members and special education students, and she revived a “buddy” program that pairs students for weekly lunches, field trips and afterschool activities such as bowling and baseball. “Our club has allowed typical students to see differently abled peers as friends,” Elizabeth said.
Alabama’s other teen recognized as a top youth volunteer is Louise Adair, a 13-year-old seventh-grader at Tuscaloosa Academy. Louise has traveled with her parents on mission trips to North Carolina, where they help care for refugees from many countries. She works with One7, a faith-based organization in Charlotte that provides transitional housing, mentoring and tutoring for refugees. More than 31,000 youth volunteers in grades 5-12 applied for the awards last fall through their schools and community groups. In the past 22 years, the Prudential program has honored more than 120,000 young volunteers at the local, state and national level. ❖
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10 • Thursday, May 18, 2017
‘A Gem of a Place’
OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL
Former Savage’s Bakery Owner Brings Beauty to Homewood Alleys, Sidewalks After years spent making cakes beautiful, former Savage’s Bakery owner Van Scott has now turned his artistic eye to the area outside the Homewood institution. Passing the bakery on to his daughter has given him the freedom to branch out, Scott said. “I’m there every day but I don’t have to be monitoring employees or answering the phone. With all that time on my hands, I redirected my energies to the outside. I like to be outside making things beautiful. Just like decorating a cake,” Scott said. To say Scott has been diligent about keeping a tidy garden would be an exponential understatement. Scott, who owns and maintains several properties on the west side of 18th Street in downtown Homewood, has taken urban landscaping to a new level. It all started with the alley behind Savage’s. “It always bothered me that it was so neglected and ugly. You think of an alley as a useless place you dump extra boxes and junk. But an alley can have a lot of charm,” Scott said. Scott’s vision wasn’t just sweeping up and scattering some seeds. To give
Journal photos by Sarah Kuper
By Sarah Kuper
Vestavia Hills School Board Approves Rezoning
zoned for the U.S. 31 corridor. Ninth-graders zoned for Liberty Park will attend Liberty Park Middle School.
Van Scott, above, who owns and maintains several properties on the west side of 18th Street in downtown Homewood, has taken urban landscaping to a new level. Even the alley behind Savage’s is getting a spruce up.
bags of cement mix. That doesn’t even include the plants, bushes and built-by-hand lattice to provide more shade. After months of hard manual labor and landscape dreaming, Scott’s vision is in bloom. “And this is just year one for a lot of these plants. A lot of beauty won’t show up until year two or three.” Whimsical Chinese paper flowers, climbing red roses and purple clematis accented with pops of wildflowers make the road behind Savage’s less of an alley and more of a lane through a secret garden. Scott said his work has been catching the admiring eye of passersby, but he recalls that not everyone understood his mission. “I gave up trying to tell them. I
‘Cherry trees or even crape myrtle lining the street. That would be a sight to see coming down 18th Street in the springtime.’ a feel for the scope of his work, here is a partial list of supplies he used: concrete saw, jackhammer, industrial wheelbarrow (loaded and unloaded by hand more than 60 times), 25 bags of concrete rock, 20 bags of sand, 53 bags of Black Kow manure and 63
said, ‘Just wait and see.’ They didn’t see what I saw, but now I think they do.” Scott, who grew up with a love of landscaping and gardening, believes his work is important to the city of Homewood. “The alley has turned into a gem of a place and I would love for the city of Homewood to think along those lines. Homewood will only become more of a destination. No space should be neglected. With effort, we could keep this an eye-popping place,” he said. Scott is appreciative of the way the city cares for most things, but he doesn’t see eye to eye on a few things with regard to public spaces. Scott said he wishes the city would address the issue of the large trees flanking 18th Street. Problems with
Photo special to the Journal
Mountain Brook Celebrates 75
City officials and community members of Mountain Brook gathered May 7 to celebrate the 75th anniversary of the city’s incorporation. The event kicked off a month of celebrations leading up to May 24, the anniversary date. Festivities included cake, ice cream, music, a dunking booth, inflatables and more. Helping Mayor Stewart Welch cut the ceremonial ribbon was Tess Patton, a Mountain Brook Junior High student who won the “Why I Love Mountain Brook” essay contest. Patton additionally shadowed Welch during a May 8 City Council meeting and presented a birthday proclamation.
A look at gardening magazines or a flip through the home improvement channels show that urban gardening is in vogue. But whether it is a row of shrubs in front of a McDonald’s or a cutting garden outside a shoe store,
Alabama Urban Regional Extension Agent Sallie Lee said gardeners have to take a few things into consideration. “You have to keep plants back from the walkway. Trees need to be trimmed – no one wants to get hit in the face with a scraggly branch. Be aware of what kind of insect your plants will attract, like bees versus butterflies.” Lee also mentions being mindful of the garden’s watering needs and whether run-off will interfere with foot traffic. For his part, Scott said he hopes his hard work accomplishes all he set out to do. “It is so gratifying. You have something you can enjoy every day, every time you walk outside. Other people enjoy it. It is timeless.” Scott is continuing his efforts. He is often seen tending his rock garden next to Sikes Children’s Shoes, and he is planning a walking path through the garden. He said there is always more to do, but for now he is enjoying seeing the fruits of his labor bloom around his little piece of Homewood. ❖
Mountain Brook mayors past, present and future? From left, Stewart Welch, Margaret Porter, Allen Rushton, and Tess Patton.
tree debris clogging drainage systems and causing flooding came to the city’s attention two years ago, but officials decided not to take the trees down. Scott disagreed with the decision and said that, aesthetically, there are many better options that would still be in keeping with Homewood’s charm and make less of a mess. “Cherry trees or even crape myrtle lining the street. That would be a sight to see coming down 18th Street in the springtime,” he said. URBAN GARDENING
At a recent meeting, the Vestavia Hills Board of Education approved a plan for renovating and reorganizing the school system. After surveying the public’s opinion and creating four potential options with the help of Hoar Project Management and Lathan Associates Architects, the board opted to focus on rezoning and relocating students within existing facilities rather than constructing a second high school. Beginning in 2019, Vestavia Hills Elementary Central students will move to the Pizitz Middle School campus, and Pizitz students will move to the Berry campus along with ninth-graders
... THE PLAN WILL BALANCE THE ALIGNMENT OF THE SCHOOLS WITHIN THE COMMUNITY WHILE KEEPING COSTS LOW. Consultants suggested converting that school so grades 6 and 7 would follow a middle school model, while grades 8 and 9 would follow a junior high model. According to board officials, the plan will balance the alignment of the schools within the community while keeping costs low. One of the most notable disadvantages that the board noted is that the plan does not accommodate
Creating Home
Glenwood Breaks Ground on Three New Residences In Vestiavia Hills By Emily Williams
nosed with autism has increased from 1 in 10,000 people to 1 in 68. With the number of people they serve in the state growing, Glenwood has had to continually expand. “The children who come to live at Glenwood have the most severe types of autism,” Trammell said. “With limited space and an increasing need for services, we serve the families with the greatest need. But there are many, many more families who need our services than we are able to provide.”
Representatives of Glenwood Autism and Behavioral Center broke ground May 4 on its latest expansion project, three new homes for the organization’s residents that will be built by Capstone Collegiate Communities. Of the 125 adults and children for whom Glenwood provides residences, 91 live on-campus at the facility adjacent to Liberty Park in Vestavia Hills. With the addition of the Hope Cottages, the organization will be able to accommodate 16 more residents. “We are fortunate to have the support of Capstone. Their contribution will do much more than provide a home for people with autism; it will fundamentally change the lives of entire families,” Philip Young, Glenwood’s capital campaign cochair, board member and parent of a child with autism who lives at Glenwood, said in a released statement. The cottages mark the beginning of “Renowned Care, Renewed Hope: The Campaign for Glenwood,” which consists of a $10 million campaign to expand the organization’s services. According to Glenwood officials, individuals with severe autism often need a lifetime of care that their parents aren’t trained to provide. “For many of the residents at Glenwood, they will call Glenwood home for the rest of their life. Their parents don’t have to worry that their child won’t be looked after,” said Glenwood communications manager Bradley Trammell. Residents who arrive at Glenwood as children suffer severe cases of the disorder, requiring constant supervision along with aid from professionals such as therapists, psychologists, nurses and teachers. “In the early years, we thought someone else would serve them as they grew older. But when there was nowhere else, we added programs,” Trammell said. “As more children are diagnosed with autism, more adults age out of children’s programs and don’t have anywhere to go.” Since the organization was founded in 1974, the rate of people diag-
Glenwood residents fall into three populations, each with different programming needs. Children with autism ages 6 to 21 attend the Allan Cott School on campus. Boys with severe emotional disturbances ages 6 to 14 attend the adjacent Lakeview School. Boys with SED work to stay on grade level, while Allan Cott students focus on basic education and living skills to increase their independence. Adults with autism are served by the Sullivan Center, which continues to help each resident build independence. Currently, the organization is expanding vocational training for adults, which will give more individuals the opportunity to prepare for and find a job. “After the school/day program is over, the individuals go back to their homes and spend their afternoons and evenings with supplemental counseling, therapy, enrichment activities, playing with their friends and relaxing,” Trammell said. The Hope Cottages are designed to encourage socializing with neighbors. “The main design intent of these houses for autistic individuals is to help them in creating a community with one another,” said Capstone project manager Holly Burrow. The cottages are designed for social gatherings, with double-height common rooms and kitchens. They will differ from existing residences by offering outdoor living spaces, including screened-in porches, a common outdoor space with a fire pit and a pavilion that overlooks the nearby Turkey Foot Lake.
the city’s growing population of high school students. A popular aspect of the previously presented options included the addition of a second high school in Liberty Park. Superintendent Sheila Phillips noted at the meeting that the system couldn’t
afford the cost of building a new high school. Hoar and Lathan estimated that a second high school would cost in the neighborhood of $60 million and projected it would not reach capacity until at least 2026. ❖
“The Hope Cottages represent a hope for a better future for individuals with autism. So many parents with aging children with autism ask, ‘What will happen to my child when I am gone?’” said Trammell. ❖
The cottages mark the beginning of “Renowned Care, Renewed Hope: The Campaign for Glenwood,” which consists of a $10 million campaign to expand the organization’s services.
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LIFE
12 • Thursday, May 18, 2017
OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL
FOR WILL AND SAM Pizitz Middle Schoolers Fight Cancer with Community Support
By Sarah Kuper
INSPIRING EACH OTHER
Photos special to the Journal
More than 15,000 children are diagnosed with cancer every year, according to data from the National Cancer Institute. A number that large may seem daunting, but the Vestavia Hills community is doing its part by rallying behind two of its own. In February and March, Pizitz Middle School students Will Nailen and Sam Cunningham were diagnosed with cancer, Nailen with bone cancer and Cunningham with leukemia. A social and athletic 13-year-old, Will, was feeling pain and tingling in his leg that he and his family first associated with his wrestling. But an MRI showed a lemon-sized tumor on his pelvis. Since the diagnosis, Will has had numerous tests and has begun chemotherapy. The family writes an online journal that keeps friends and family apprised of news regarding Will’s treatment and well-being. Like Will, Sam is a sports enthusiast and energetic middle-schooler. Since his leukemia diagnosis in March, he has had rounds of chemotherapy and numerous other procedures. According to the Cunningham’s online journal, the chemo has been effective, but other infections have kept Sam hospitalized. While the two boys have undergone many treatments and procedures and their parents have had many sleepless nights, they aren’t alone. In the past few months, there have been several fundraisers, including a car wash at Spellman’s Classic Detail, an event at Vintage Barber Shop with a Full Moon Bar-B-Que food
custom social media hashtags #samstrong and #withwill.
In February and March, Pizitz Middle School students Will Nailen, left, and Sam Cunningham, right, were diagnosed with cancer, Nailen with bone cancer and Cunningham with leukemia.
The support for the boys has even reached some of their favorite sports stars. Will has received autographs and notes from college wrestlers and coaches, and Sam has video messages from Auburn coaches and players, including football coach Gus Malzahn. truck at Vestavia City Hall. The haircut and bar-b-que event raised more than $6,000. Brailyn Hardy with KC Projects PR, which helped with the event, said she wasn’t surprised that the Vestavia Hills community would turn
out to support the boys. “Their families are part of the Vestavia Hills family and the owner of Full Moon has kids that go to the Vestavia schools,” she said. Sam and Will’s classmates are rooting for them with personal messages and, of course,
The boys also are rooting for each other. When Will began to lose his hair as a result of treatment, he shaved his head. He then went to the hospital to visit Sam, who was losing hair as well but was hesitant to shave his head. In the end, it was Will who inspired Sam to be brave and shave his head. The support for the boys has even reached some of their favorite sports stars. Will has received autographs and notes from college wrestlers and coaches, and Sam has video messages from Auburn coaches and players, including football coach Gus Malzahn. Patrick Cunningham, Sam’s father, said the outpouring of love and prayers has made him proud to be from Vestavia Hills. “My wife and I grew up here and moved back here after college,” he said. “We are overwhelmed.” The community continues to find ways to support Sam and Will. Right now, people can help the Cunninghams and Nailens in several ways. Put a gold bow on the mailbox. Gold is the color for pediatric cancer and bows can be purchased by emailing ekdonahue@gmail.com. Proceeds go directly toward the families’ needs. Buy a “Wrestling to Win” or “Grand Slam Sam” T-shirt. For details on how to order and more information on Sam and Will’s fight to beat cancer, visit caringbridge.com and search for Sam Cunningham or Will Nailen. ❖
“Mommy, Where Are You?” By Sarah Kuper Vestavia Hills author Tera Howard recently published her second in a series of children’s books. The book, “Mommy, Where Are You?” handles questions a child might ask of a working mother. It’s a conversation Howard knows well. Although she is a published author, writing children’s books is not what she calls her “day job.” Howard is an obstetrician and gynecologist at the University of Alabama at Birmingham. She spends long days, nights and weekends deliv-
ering babies and caring for patients. She’s also a mother and wife. “My little girl serves as the primary inspiration for the books. This book introduces the idea of working moms to young ones in an inspirational and educational way,” Howard said. “Mommy, Where Are You?” communicates to children that, while mom is away at work, she is making a difference in other people’s lives through her career. Howard said the book is not just for children. It is a message working moms need to hear. “The most common reaction I get when I hand it to women is that they start crying. They are away from their children trying to make a difference, but they have feelings of guilt and longing,” she said. “This book tells kids it is OK and it tells moms it is OK.” Howard said the message is an important one, so she chose to make the book simple and short – an easy but important read for a busy, working mom.
“When I was in residency, I didn’t have much time and I had a hard time keeping my eyes open to read to my 2-year-old. I needed something short and inspirational to read to my child,” she said. The first book in the series, “Mommy, What’s That?” helps parents teach children about their body parts in a way that helps them understand their function and potential. With each body part, Howard writes about how it can make a difference and be used in a positive way. Howard plans to continue the series following the same pattern, in which a child asks Mommy a question and the answer is practical but inspiring. Howard spent many years training to be an Ob/Gyn before practicing at UAB, but when it comes to publishing, she said she had to take a crash course. “How do you go from being a physician to an author? When you have a real desire to do something you find a way,” she said. As an independent publisher, Howard does not have a major pub-
Photo special to the Journal
Vestavia Woman Writes Book for Working Moms and Their Children
Tera Howard is an obstetrician and gynecologist at the University of Alabama at Birmingham. She spends long days, nights and weekends delivering babies and caring for patients, and also recently published her second book.
lishing house behind her to help market and distribute the book, but she said she has gotten a lot of positive feedback because of the book’s message.
“Mommy, Where Are You?” is available on Amazon and barnesandnoble.com, in The Little Professor bookstore in Homewood and Barnes and Noble at the Summit. ❖
OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL
LIFE
From scheduled chemotherapy to spontaneous celebrations, WE’RE WITH YOU EVERY STEP OF THE WAY. The thought of a cancer diagnosis cutting your life’s journey short is a scary one. So the UAB Gynecologic Oncology team is here with a range of treatment options to help you along the way. With more gynecologic oncologists than anyone in the state, we are focused on getting you an appointment right away and providing advanced treatment options with exceptional comprehensive care. There are few things in the world as important to us as celebrating every little victory. And being with you every step of the way.
uabmedicine.org/women
Thursday, May 18, 2017 • 13
14 • Thursday, May 18, 2017
OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL
MEMORIAL DAY
God and Country
War Hero to Share His Story During Support Our Soldiers Event
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Art on the Lake at Children’s Harbor
Retired U.S. Army major Jeff Streucker is a veteran of military operations in Panama, Iraq, Somalia and Afghanistan. His heroism was depicted in the popular war movie “Black Hawk Down.”
never been in a desperate situation where I thought I might lose my life until Somalia,” he said. “There were roughly 200 of us and perhaps as many as 20,000 Somalians around us. We were in a firefight and I thought I was going to die. But I was OK with it, because I was prepared to meet Jesus.” Streucker survived the battle and found a calling. “During the battle, I knew I was prepared to die,” Streucker said. “But I could hear many of my fellow soldiers over the convoy radio and could tell that they weren’t ready because they didn’t have a personal relationship with Jesus. The day after the battle, I felt God’s presence as He told me that my life would be spent spreading the word of the Gospel to those who haven’t heard it or don’t believe.” Streucker takes his message across the country, sharing his theme of God and country. How the message is received can differ depending on where he is speaking.
“Ninety percent of those serving in the military come from a military background,” he explained. “So when I speak in areas that have a strong military presence, they understand and appreciate the sacrifices that have been made. When I go to places that don’t have such a military presence, the people are patriotic but don’t quite understand the significance of the sacrifices. That’s a direction that is dangerous to our country. There’s a disconnect because they don’t have loved ones who are directly affected.” Streucker sees Memorial Day as a time not only to honor those who made the ultimate sacrifice for America – but also as a time to express Christian faith. “Just as I have a responsibility to remember the fallen warriors on Memorial Day weekend, I also have a responsibility to remember what Jesus did on the cross,” he explained. “We should never forget the price paid for our freedom and we shouldn’t forget what Jesus did to buy us back from the bondage of sin.” After serving more than a dozen tours in Afghanistan and Iraq, Streucker has strong opinions about people who say they support the troops but oppose the political mission. “There is something that turns in my stomach every time I hear someone say ‘I support our troops but I don’t support the war in Afghanistan,’ or ‘I’m really proud of our troops but I don’t want my son or daughter to go fight that war,’” he said. “Those statements define someone who is not willing to sacrifice for our freedom. They describe someone who expects others to sacrifice for them.” Streuker believes there is an interconnection between military service and the saving of souls. “At the end of the day, there are two classifications of people who are willing to give the ultimate sacrifice,” he said. “Jesus Christ gave his life so we would have eternal life and our warriors sacrifice their lives so we can have a life of freedom in this nation.” ❖
DAy Week
May 27th 9:00am-5:00pm May 28th 9:00am-2:00pm
enD
Located on the serene grounds of Children’s Harbor’s Lake Martin campus, Art on the Lake is in its 12th year of welcoming people back to the lake for the summer season on Memorial Day Weekend. Over 50 artists and vendors from all over the southeast come together to offer arts and handmade crafts to a crowd of more than 5,000 people each year. For more information contact Vicki Tuggle: 334.857.2021 or vickituggle@childrensharbor.com
childrensharbor.com/artonthelake
Photos special to the Journal
L
riA o M e M
Jeff Streucker didn’t invent the phrase “God in the foxhole,” but it certainly applies to him. The retired U.S. Army major is a veteran of military operations in Panama, Iraq, Somalia and Afghanistan and has earned a chest full of medals for distinguished service. His heroism was depicted in the popular war movie “Black Hawk Down.” But Streucker is more focused on a heavenly reward. As the lead pastor at Calvary Baptist Church in Columbus, Georgia, and a highly sought-after speaker, he is just as interested in winning souls for Jesus Christ as he is protecting his country from its enemies. Streucker will tell his story of faith and freedom at the sixth annual Support Our Soldiers Alabama Memorial Day dinner, to be held May 25 at 6 p.m. at Briarwood Christian Church. Support Our Soldiers was founded by Dr. and Mrs. Thomas Rivers in 2010 after their son, Marine Lance Cpl. Thomas Rivers Jr., was killed in action in Afghanistan on April 28, 2010. The non-profit organization sends care packages to U.S. military personnel around the world. “One of the privileges of speaking at this event is that it’s not only a fundraiser, but a way to honor a Marine who gave his life for our freedoms,” Streucker said. “It’s important that Americans not forget those who made the ultimate sacrifice.” Streucker, who enlisted in the Army immediately after high school and is the author of five books, said much of his faith was molded in the battle of Mogadishu, in Somalia, in the early 1990s. As a 24-year-old sergeant and squad leader assigned to Task Force Ranger in the 75th Ranger Regiment, he led a three-vehicle convoy through intense enemy fire to return a wounded soldier to base. “I had been a Christian since I was 13 and was strong in the faith. Throughout my military career, I’d
Photo special to the Journal
By Lee Davis
Support Our Soldiers was founded by Dr. and Mrs. Thomas Rivers in 2010 after their son, Marine Lance Cpl. Thomas Rivers Jr. (above) was killed in action in Afghanistan on April 28, 2010.
Charon Rivers is shown grieving at the gravesite of her son, Marine Lance Corporal Thomas Rivers Jr., shortly after he was killed in action in 2010.
OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL
Thursday, May 18, 2017 • 15
MEMORIAL DAY
Photo by Lloyd Beard
Birmingham’s all-adult community wind band, Alabama Winds, (right) will join the Homewood High School band in presenting a Memorial Day concert. Alabama Winds was organized in the summer of 2013 and is comprised primarily of practicing music educators residing in the central Alabama area. The free concert will take place at the school on Mon., May 29, at 3 p.m. For more information, visit alabamawinds.org. ❖
5246 Greystone Way While at the park, guests also may visit the Regiment of Columns, which includes stories, letters, artwork and inscriptions about Alabama veterans and the state’s 24 Medal of Honor recipients.
Alabama Veterans to be Honored In Patriotic Ceremonies
Alabama veterans will be celebrated during an event at Alabama Veterans Memorial Park that will include patriotic music, a reading of veterans’ names and a dedication of the newest StepStones. The free event will be May 28, the day before Memorial Day, from 1 p.m. to 3:30 p.m. Boy Scouts from the Vulcan district will kick off the day as they lead the pledge, present the colors and read names of Alabamians who gave their lives in service in 2016. Bugles Across America will perform “Echo Taps,” and retired Sgt. 1st Class Stephanie Whatley-Farmer will sing the national anthem, according to a press release from the park. Cindy Monk The newest StepStones, engraved (205) 229-2427 bricks installed at the park that show Cindy@Cindy Monk.com AlabamaMatureMoves.com the names of veterans, will be dedicated during a ceremony at 2 p.m.
The bricks may be engraved to honor any Alabama veteran, living or passed, and are dedicated twice a year. While at the park, guests also may visit the Regiment of Columns, which includes stories, letters, artwork and inscriptions about Alabama veterans and the state’s 24 Medal of Honor recipients. Next to the columns is the Hall of Honor, where guests can view the names of the 11,000 Alabamians who have lost their lives in service. Also on display is the “Faces of the Price of Freedom” exhibit honoring Alabama military men and women who have died in service since Sept. 11, 2001. Free shuttles will take visitors from the parking area to the park, and seating will be provided at the event. For more information, visit alabamaveterans.org. ❖
YOU'RE INVITED!
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his magnificent Greystone Golf Course Estate overlooks the 17th hole, offering incredible views and 10,000 (+/-) square feet of luxurious living space. With gleaming marble and hardwood floors, the home offers 6 bedrooms, 6 baths, 2 half baths, four fireplaces and a 5-car garage. A gourmet kitchen boasts sub-zero and commercial appliances, an ice maker, wine cooler, and commercial coffee and cappuccino service. An elaborate Master Retreat includes a spa-like bath and sitting room with a fireplace. The finished basement includes a second kitchen, a theater with state of the art technology, a paneled library/office, a 1,200-bottle wine cellar, mirrored exercise room, guest suite, and a gaming room. An outdoor entertaining area boasts a fireplace with gas starter, a separate outdoor half bath, a kitchen with a commercial grill, refrigerator and prep sink, all with spectacular views. In a gated community in one of Birmingham’s finest real estate developments, the Greystone Country Club’s award winning golf-courses, club house, pool and tennis courts are nearby.
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Photo special to the Journal
Memorial Day Patriotic Performance
SOCIAL
16 • Thursday, May 18, 2017
Photo special to the Journal
T
he Red Mountain Theatre Company hosted its annual gala April 8 at Old Car Heaven, showcasing performances from the company’s Conservatory members. Guests began the evening with a cocktail hour featuring passed hors d’oeuvres and a silent auction that included art, jewelry, trips, furniture and restaurant experiences. Following cocktails, guests sat down to a dinner from Iz Catering and were treated to entertainment from the conservatory and RMTC alumnus Jordan Fisher, a member of the cast of Broadway’s “Hamilton” and a recording artist with Hollywood Records. Also performing was Tracy Winborn, star of RMTC’s production of “Dreamgirls,” set for May 12-28; and Trevor Berger, who will play the role of Jack in RMTC’s production of “Disney’s Newsies” July 7-30. A live auction was presented by Executive Director Keith Cromwell alongside auctioneer Tony Giles and included two original pieces from Birmingham’s iconic sculptor Frank Fleming, gourmet dining experiences, a trip to New York City for the National Alliance for Musical Theater’s Festival of New Musicals, a made-to-measure garment from Shaia’s, a weekend experience in San Diego for the first production of Broadway-bound “Escape to Margaritaville,” among other offerings. The evening included the induction of three lifetime board members: Sharon Suellentrop, Bob Suellentrop and Macky Warren. It also was announced that RMTC will add a new planned giving initiative, the Carolyn King Legacy Society, named in memory of the late Protective Life Corp. executive who provided long-lasting support for the organization. Friends and former colleagues of King’s were in attendance to pay tribute. Proceeds from the event benefit the nonprofit’s professional musical theater productions as well as its arts education programming. Gold level sponsors included: Alabama Power Co., Protective Life Corp, Kathryn and Raymond Harbert, Brasfield & Gorrie, and Susan and David Silverstein. Among the guests were Kathryn and Raymond Harbert, Tracey and Rich Bielen, Dr. Ray and Nancy Watts, Shannon Smith, Kate and John Cotton, Nancy and Rob Burton, Steve Callaway and Keith Pennington, Gail and Jeffrey Bayer, Karen and Alan Register, Carolanne and Johnny Roberts, Karen and Tommy Tynes, Barbara and David Oberman, Debbie Drummond, Lisa and Charlie Miller, Karen and Mike Luce, Sara and Logan Taylor, Kam and Joe Patton, Carole and Jim Waitzman, Fonda and Ken Shaia, Ann and John Forney, Susan and Lee Reeves, Robert Raiford and Zane Rhoades, Cele and Alan Montgomery, Corey and Scott Kappler, Deborah and John Sellers, Jeanne and Aubrey Garrison, and Stephanie and Dane Cooper. ❖
OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL
From left, Kathryn and Raymond Harbert, Carol Butler, David Williams and Barbara Burton.
BROADWAY BABY RMTC Gala Showcases Artists and Alumni
Trevor Berger Aubrey and Jeanne Garrison, Robert Raiford and Zane Rhoades.
Bob, Sharon and Adam Suellentrop. Jordan Fisher and RMTC Conservatory.
OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL
Thursday, May 18, 2017 • 17
SOCIAL
Bill and Mindy Lalor with Marsh and Brianne Lalor.
All the best of Spring now on
Some New Twists to Popular Show Art Takes Over in Crestline Village
SALE
30%-50% off starts May 18 Journal photos by Jordan Wald
More than 85 artists made their way to Crestline Village April 22 for the Mountain Brook Art Association’s 36th annual Art in the Village. The show included artists’ tents featuring galleries of two-dimensional work for purchase on the Crestline Sports Field. Members of the Birmingham Belles welcomed guests as the Choko Aiken Band provided jazz music. New this year, the lawn in front of City Hall featured music from Mason Music students and staff, a performance by the Mountain Brook High School band and artwork by Mountain Brook students. ❖
Katherine Grace McMinn and Allee Petro, with friend.
271 Rele Street
•
Lane Parke • 871-1965
We have a plan for you, Dad!
To: From: Date:
Betsy Prince Over The Mountain Journal, PHONE: 205-823-9646 FAX: 205-824-1246 May
This is your AD PROOF from the OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL for the May 18, 2017 issue. Please fax approval or changes to 824-1246.
Please make sure all information is correct, Including address and phone number!
Please initial and fax back within 24 hours. CALL FOR YOUR FREE If we have not heard fromCONSULTATION 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.
H a p p y
FATHER’S DAY! Guiding You Along the Path of Weight Management
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18 • Thursday, May 18, 2017
OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL
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From left, Glenn and Kimberly Rowe, Claudia and Ron Banerjee.
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Journal photos by Jordan Wald
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Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation of Alabama took over B&A Warehouse on April 29 to celebrate its annual Night of Hope Gala. The theme for the 16th annual event was “Time for a Change.” The event raised funds for the foundation’s mission to fund critical research for Type 1 diabetes. Serving as honorees for the event were Bob and Anne Kracke. Festivities included a seated dinner, speed painting by Tim Decker and both silent and live auctions selling items that included sports memorabilia, local goods, home furnishings, travel packages, wine and art. New this year, the evening continued with an after-party that included a live band, virtual golf, a jewelry pull and more. ❖
Coley Hand and Josephine Griffin.
Holly Jolly
Garden Club Elects New Officers
Clay and Abby Salyers.
Larson, Anne Michaels, Betty Nunis, Adrienne O’Brien, Helen Smalley, Cille Spader, Betty Weeks, Elaine Wood and Janis Zeanah. It was agreed that Helen Smalley would again coordinate the Christmas party, set for the second Saturday in December at Vestavia Country Club. The club will meet next on Oct. 9. ❖
The Sprig O’Holly Garden Club elected new officers at its April 10 luncheon meeting, hosted at the Vestavia Hills home of Anne and Rusty Moulton. The location was nostalgic for the group, having been the residence of Anne Moulton’s late parents, Joy and Bill Harbert. Co-hostesses for the luncheon were Anne Michaels, Adrienne O’Brien and Cille Spader. Club President Anne Michaels presided at the business meeting, which included the election of new officers. Officers include Virginia Chappelle, president; Kay Davidson, vice president; Janis Zeanah, secretary; Tallulah Hargrove, treasurer; and Joan Hinkle, past president and parliamentarian. Anne Michaels will reprise her role as yearbook chairman. Following the business meeting and luncheon, guests toured the Moultons’ recently refurbished house and gardens. Seen touring Kay Davidson, Virginia Chappelle, Tallulah Hargrove and Janis Zeanah. were Virginia Chappelle, Martha Chism, Kay Davidson, Faye Hallman, Joan Hinkle, Nell
Photo special to the Journal
A N T I Q U E S | G A R D E N S | I N D U ST R I A L
OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL
Thursday, May 18, 2017 • 19
SOCIAL
Right, from left: Rhonda Thrasher, Kevin Carter, Sarah Thrasher Carter and Alan Thrasher. Below, James Yerby of II Da Maxx.
Roll the Dice
Custom made 14k Gold Cuff BraCelets
Pink Palace Casino Night Raises Funds for Cancer Research
Photos special to the Journal
The Breast Cancer Research Foundation raised $69,000 for breast cancer research at the ninth annual Pink Palace Casino fundraiser, held April 22 at Iron City. Funds raised will remain in Alabama, supporting local research, which, in turn, will make a national impact. Guests enjoyed Vegas-style casino gaming featuring blackjack, poker, roulette, craps and slot machines. Winnings were cashed in for a shot at a variety of prizes, and guests placed their bets on high-rolling silent auction items. More than $2,000 was raised as guests took a chance to win a pair of diamond earrings and to stock their bar, compliments of Diamonds Direct, United Johnson Brothers of Alabama and event co-chairs. Co-chairs for the Pink Palace event were Anne-Michelle Barnett, Kim Comer, Jill Crawford, Diane Dudney, Kathy Emison, Kathy G. Mezrano, Cheryl Morton, Leslie Passafiume, Amy Stevens and Shaela Wise. ❖
20s
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5299 Valleydale Road, Suite 111 980-9030 southeasternjewelers.net (1/4 mile off 280)
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Renee Over The Mountain Journal, 205-823-9646 ph., 205-824-1246, fax August
This is your ad proof from the over the mountain Journal for the august 25, 2016 issue. Please contact your sales representative as soon as possible to approve your ad or make changes. You may fax approval or changes to 824-1246.
Please make sure all information is correct, including address and phone number!
Beauty at Any Age BRE, 21
AESTHETICIAN
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please initial and fax back within 24 hours. COSMETIC CENTER MANAGER LPN/LASER TECHNICIAN MASTER AESTHETICIAN 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.
Our Cosmetic Center staff falls nothing short of unique. We have six extremely talented women who have fallen into a decade-by-decade age category, ranging from 20s to 70s. This group of beauty experts are able to clearly identify the changes that occur with age and can help you discover your age-appropriate skin care regimen, makeup look, cosmetic procedures, spa services and more. Visit Total Skin & Beauty Dermatology Center today to learn more about maintaining your healthy skin for every stage of your life.
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20 • Thursday, May 18, 2017
OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL
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Brandon and Clayton Walton, Suzanne and Jerry Perkins, and Ken and Mary Virginia Cater.
Bluff Park WindoW Works Wood window restoration and repair Sash replacement, rot repair Replace broken and fogged glass Wood insulated, putty glazed, and composite vinyl replacement sashes
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Feeding the Fight
Date:
Annual Tasting Event Raises Funds to Fight Parkinson’s
Jim Brilliant spring-blooming Over The Mountain Journal, PHONE: 205-823-9646 Local chefs served up tasty treats at deciduous azaleas with FAX: 205-824-1246 the fourth annual Taste for a Cure, larger, colorful, and more held April 27 at Haven. May 2015 showy blooms. Great for This is your AD PrOOF from the OvEr THE MOuNTAiN JOurNAlThe for event, the hosted by the Parkinson light shade and even Association of Alabama, raised more Nov. 4 2010 issue. Please fax approval or changes to 824-1246.
Mother's Day
sunnier locations. With than $100,000 for research to find a the added attraction of cure for Parkinson’s Disease. Please make sure all information is correct, The event featured signature tasthoney-suckle fragrance, ings, a silent auction and a live aucincluding address and phone number! these are a perfect addition headed up by auctioneer Bob tion to your garden.
is May 14th!
Straka. Dishes were created by Julie if we have not heard from you by 5 pm of the Friday before the press date, Grimes of Black Sheep Kitchen, your ad will run as is. We print the paper Monday. Mauricio Papapietro of Brick & Tin, Thank you for your prompt attention. Justin White of Cosecha, Carey Thomasson of Dinner, Robert Sullivan of Donatos Pizza, Idie and Chris Hastings of Ovenbird, Rob McDaniel of SpringHouse, Aman Judge of Taj India and Mac Russell of Whistling Table. The program included the presentation of a $30,000 check from the
Please initial and fax back within 24 hours.
March 4 Alabama Parkinson’s Fighter Walk, presented by Karen Virciglio, Jeri Boyd and Lanette Steadman to Dr. David Standaert, professor and chair of neurology for the Center for Neurodegeneration and Experimental Therapeutics. Guests in attendance included Stewart Dansby, Mallie Ireland, Elizabeth and Tom Broughton, Mitzi and Richard Davis, Gloria Beall, Tricia Noble, Carol and Rusty Stewart, Kat Stewart, Mary Virginia and Ken Cater, Marian Phillips, Julia and Oliver Williams, Ruth and Colter Bean, Renee and Mike Booker, Laura Davis, Mary Louis and John Quinn, Christopher and Craig Hey, Robbie Pike, Kelli Kelly, Michelle and Eric Kelly, Brian Corbett, Mimi Major, Maggie and Will Brooke, Kitty and Brian Willett, Brent Latta, Kelly
and Heath Henderson, Kristen and Nathan Collums and Mary Wyatt. Also attending were Jamie and Matthew Laney, Patti and Percy Badham, Lindsey Mills, Morgan and Phillip Badham, Brian Willett, Alice and Carl Thigpen, Margaret and Tommy Angelino, Drs. Emily and John Riser, Will Riser, Mary Catherine Fondren, Kathleen Smith, Casey and Will Worrell, Michael Fitts, Karen and John Virciglio, Jeri and Paul Boyd, Lanette and Tony Steadman, Rebecca and Russ Chambliss, Mary Katherine and Gerry Cabaniss, Sybil and George Newton, Dr. David Standaert and Janet Standaert, Dr. Amy Amara and Wael Amara, Kate and Ken Delgreco, Dr. Andy and Kristen West, Drs. Joseph Daley and Laura Volpicelli-Daley, and Phillip Johnson. ❖
Keep it DZ
Delta Zetas Welcome New Officers for 2017-18
The Delta Zeta Birmingham Alumnae Chapter hosted a meeting on the evening of April 17, with members voting in new officers for 2017-18. Officers include Judy Struchtemeyer, president; Karley Nemeth, president-elect; Ashley
Kennedy, secretary; Abby Willens, vice president for collegiate relations; Angela Kelso, vice president for communications; Ginger Cowley, vice president for finance; Emily Trentacoste, vice president for fundraising and philanthropy; Carol Medders, vice president for
membership; Lauren Bendall, vice president for programs. The Delta Zeta Birmingham Alumnae Chapter is open to any Delta Zeta in the greater Birmingham area. For more information, email deltazetabirmingham@gmail.com or visit dzbirminghamalumnae.org. ❖
Photo special to the Journal
To: From:
Photo special to the Journal
f f f f
Front, from left: Tamara Harrison, Judy Struchtemeyer, Lauren Bendall and Emily Trentacoste. Back: Karley Nemeth, Carol Medders, Abby Willens, Ashley Kennedy, Angela Kelso and Ginger Cowley.
OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL
Thursday, May 18, 2017 • 21
SOCIAL
Hosted in Harmony
The Symphony Volunteer Council of the Alabama Symphonic Association gathered for its Spring Membership Party March 7 at the Hoover home of Robert Raiford and Zane Rhoades, members of the SVC and patrons of the Alabama Symphony Orchestra. On a typically stormy early March evening, host Zane Rhoades met early arriving guests in the drive with a giant umbrella and escorted them to the front porch, where they were welcomed by Robert Raiford. The vice presidents of membership, Martha and Bob Black, greeted the SVC members and their guests in the great room. Early arrivals looked at their hosts’ extensive art collection. Seen in the crowd were Char and Rick Bonsack, Mimi Jackson, Johnnie and Rich Venglik, Diane Ray, Shirley and Bob Brown, Sally Holsonback, Jim Atkinson, Liz and Tom Warren, Olivia and Gene Weingarten, Debby Noll, Jack Standifer and Debby Kristofco. Vice Presidents of Hospitality Phyllis Davis, Betsy Cooper and Sandra Wilson alternated greeting newcomers and setting out refreshments, which were donated by SVC board members. Husbands Tom Davis and Bob Wilson served as bartenders while Joe Cooper facilitated traffic flow. Sweet and savory hors d’oeuvres were displayed on the slate dining room table and the buffet in the great room. Included in the crowd were Jane Paris Smith and Dr. Chandler Smith, Michelle Thackerson, Linda and Roger James, Debbie Reid, Janet Lauer, Gloria Braune and Wally Womack, Rosa Minehan, Shine and Virginia Guthrie and Anne Bell and Kirk Alford. President Char Bonsack welcomed SVC members and their guests and gave a brief update on the 2017 Alabama Symphony Decorators’ ShowHouse, the Johnson-Clark Estate in Mountain Brook. The Decorators’ ShowHouse was open from April 29 to May 14. Mimi Jackson, vice president of education, invited everyone to the living room for a brief performance by Katherine Mitchell, one of the participants in the 2017 Lois Pickard Music Scholarship Competition. Seen around the piano were Kathie Ramsey, Susan Davis, Nan and Phil Teninbaum, Rosa Minehan, Rhonna and Jonathan Phillips, Roberta Atkinson and Molly Bee Bloetscher.❖
Photos special to the Journal
SVC Celebrates at Spring Membership Party
Above, from left, Debby Kristofco and Linda James. Below, Sally Holdonback, Sandra Wilson and Molly Bee Bloetscher.
new rehab center
now open!
Journal photo by Jordan Wald
School “We the People” team and the Youth in Government program. This year the Rotary Club is providing night vision googles for the Police Department and a large diameter hose roller for the Fire Department. The event included live music from The Casters, a shrimp boil, inflatables, a corn hole competition, fire engine and rescue equipment. ❖
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From left, Eve, Ryan, Kim, Miles and Nolan Blackenburg.
Vestavia Hills Celebrates First Responders
The grounds of Vestavia Hills’ City Hall became the site of a low country boil as the Vestavia Hills Sunrise Rotary Club held its 7th annual First Responders Celebration on April 22. A total of $31,000 was raised in connection with the family-friendly
event celebrating the city’s firefighters and police officers. That money will go to cover the expense of the celebration, help fund the Rotary’s initiative to provide state-of-the-art equipment to first responders, and support the Vestavia Hills High
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205-956-4150 3/7/2017 7:58:57 AM
22 • Thursday, May 18, 2017
FASHION THE SUMMER TRENDS
OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL
JOURNAL PHOTOS BY LEE WALLS JR.
Claire Haley is wearing Johnny Was embroidered shorts, $253, a blue Majestic tank, $116, and an ivory cropped top by Issey Miyake, $389. Her gray floral gladiator sandals are by LaBottega , $279, and practical gray leather backpack from Daniella Lehavi is, $426. Her outfit is complete with silver dagger dangle earrings, $75, and a one-of-a-kind piece matte finish jade bead necklace with poured medallion, $185, both by local jewelry maker Louise Abroms. B Prince, 871-1965.
Morgan Cornelius is wearing a tie-back dress by Tina + Jo, $196, black leather block heels by Diba True, $164, and hand made earrings by Meme & Co., $24. Payton Brantley is in army green jogger pants by Dex, $79, paired with a chiffon cami in paprika by Dex, $49, and Italian Love block heels by Diba True, $119. Her outfit is finished with an Agate stones and drusy pendant, wrappable necklace by Meme & Co, $72, an Alice in Wonderland cuff by Boho Bellus, $59, and hand etched metal earrings by Melinda Whitt, $29. a.k.a. Girl Stuff, 802-7735.
Abbie Newman is wearing a Kaleidoscope Geo knit tunic dress in Fjord, $118, Embossed Lea Whale flip flop in Rose Gold, $49.50, and a beaded bracelet set in Capri Blue, $38. Jackson Pruitt is sporting a Russell Hill plaid linen Tucker Shirt in Flamingo, $115, an 8” Performance Jetty Short in Deep Cobalt, $85, and a Washed Webbing flip flop in Natural, $55. vineyard vines, 970-9758.
Chamberlain Barnes is wearing the Garden Tulip Bubble from The Proper Peony, with hand embroidery on the edge of the collar, $76.95. Blue Willow, 968-0909.
Volatile Shoes, Lia, a gold wedge with a black strap and cushion foot bed, $79.99, and Junebug, a silver slip-on wedge, $79.99. Flip Flops & What Nots, 967-7429.
OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL
Thursday, May 18, 2017 • 23
FASHION
Dress for Success YWCA’s My Sister’s Closet Offers Women Affordable Clothing That is On Trend
By Emily Williams
We Should Use Our Powers For Good
Journal photos by Emily Williams
As the saying goes, you dress for the job you want, not the one you have. For many women, the clothing that suits the job they want is out of reach due to its cost. With that in mind, the YWCA of Greater Birmingham initiative My Sister’s Closet offers gently used clothing at a more than fair price. Located in Downtown Birmingham next-door to the YWCA, My Sister’s Closet offers upscale and contemporary clothing from a casual sundress to a career-worthy business suit. Clothes are offered at a discount, with all of the money feeding back into the YWCA’s programs, which offer support to local women and children in need. But the store also gives away clothes for free to women in need through the YWCA. Three-year volunteer Cindy Doody of Mountain Brook said that seeing women pick out current fashions for free is one of the many rewarding experiences of her work at the store. “It’s not just clothes, they pick out purses, jewelry, shoes,” she said. “They can accessorize, as opposed to just picking out a dress.” According to Mary Jane Gibson, coordinator of volunteers and My Sister’s Closet, the store gives away far more of its clothing than it sells. Though she has many favorite memories helping customers look their best, one that stands out was when a customer asked for help picking an outfit for her first job interview in years. “As we talked, it was apparent how nervous she was about her interview, which was the following day,” Gibson said. “As she tried on outfits, I conducted a mock interview with her and gave her feedback on her
From left: Jessica Jones, Linda Sully, Cindy Doody and Alicia Calloway are just a few of the volunteers who help run the YWCA store My Sister’s Closet, offering contemporary clothing at discounted prices to make fashion more affordable for women in the Greater Birmingham area.
responses, trying to ease her anxiety.” In addition to finding the perfect outfit and accessories, Gibson said the customer left the store with more confidence than when she entered. The next day, the woman stopped back by the store and told Gibson that she had gotten the job. The YWCA also coordinates Dress for Success and Making a Good First Impression talks at various local organizations in conjunction with the shop. Open on weekdays from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m., the store is run by staff and a large group of community volunteers who work with customers, hang clothing, price items and more. My Sister’s Closet is always flushed with new fashions to be organized, Doody noted, which are first donated and sorted at the YWCA so that the more upscale pieces are sent to the store. “I have met and become friends with some incredible people who work and volunteer for the YWCA and My Sister’s Closet,” Doody said. She added that it’s also the mission of the store that brings her back, supporting the YWCA as a whole to meet the needs of local women and children within the community. “If a person feels good about their appearance, it gives them confidence
and pride in themselves,” she said. “Acquiring these clothes allows someone to feel like they have a chance and an opportunity to succeed.” In addition to day-to-day goings on, one of Doody’s favorite volunteer days is when she gets to help out with the some of the YWCA’s annual events, like Prompalooza. “The event provides new and fashionable prom dresses to girls who might not otherwise be able to get a
dress,” she said. “It is wonderful and rewarding to see the joy of these young girls, who come with their friends and parents to find the perfect dress.” At this year’s event, held in March, Doody saw a long line of girls gathered outside of the store an hour before it even opened. With hundreds of gowns donated specifically for the event, she thinks just about everyone went home with something they loved. ❖
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205.870.1097 Located in Downtown Birmingham next-door to the YWCA, My Sister’s Closet offers upscale and contemporary clothing from a casual sundress to a careerworthy business suit.
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If we could somehow harness all of the energy that alcoholics put into getting the next drink, hiding or somehow disguising that drink from loved ones, convincing self and loved ones that this was the last one and then repeating the cycle…man, talk about an endless energy source. It makes me think of a hamster wheel in more ways than one. How many times have you or a loved one plotted out a strategy to get that next drink that is almost labyrinthine in its complexity? What is the craziest thing have you poured your favorite beverage into in order to camouflage it from others? How many times have you awakened in the morning (or afternoon) promising yourself, God, Dr. Oz, or anyone else that you’ll never drink again if that hangover would just go away? And of course there are bruises that you can’t explain. Some of the plans I made in the past should have come with flow charts. I know of a past client that used to tie a string around her wine bottle and hang it outside a window when her family would come over and search her house. It’s funny how the promise of abstinence disappears as soon as the hangover does. I call that Alcoholic Amnesia. What are your stories? Are you ready to get off the hamster wheel? Call us at Bayshore Retreat. You’ll be hard-pressed to shock us. We are here to help.
SUMMER FUN
24 • Thursday, May 18, 2017
By Lynn Grisard Fullman
3-4: Tannehill Gem, Mineral, Fossil & Jewelry Show. The 44th annual event includes demos, exhibits, children’s activities, door prizes plus geology- and jewelry-related booths showcasing and selling gems, minerals, fossils and jewelry. Tannehill Ironworks Historical State Park. tannehill. org/events.html.
Summertime. Ah, summertime! The living definitely is easy. The days are (mostly) sunny. The pace is slower. The possibilities are as abundant as the stars in the night sky. In Birmingham this summer, you will find festivals and special events of all sorts. “This is a great summer to stay right here in Birmingham,” said Dilcy Windham Hilley, vice president of marketing and communications with the Greater Birmingham Convention & Visitors Bureau. “The music and film events scheduled for this summer are as good as you could travel to find anywhere,” she reports. “In addition to festivals,” she said, “we get the Birmingham Barons all summer long. It’s just a really fun time to spend downtime in Birmingham.” Following is a sampling of what the ’Ham has on tap this summer. Mark your calendar so you won’t miss a single event.
3: Alabaster City Fest. Live bands perform all day, 9 a.m.-9 p.m., at this annual event that includes food vendors, arts and crafts, cruise-in car show, children’s activities and inflatables. Municipal Park. al-alabaster.civicplus.com 3: SliceFest. The sixth annual block party is hosted by Slice Pizza & Brewhouse to thank the community for its continuing support. Expect local and regional musical talent paired with local craft beer and specialty pizzas. Slice Pizza & Brew, 725 29th St. South. slicefest.com. 8 and each Thursday in June: Sounds of Summer. The outdoor concert series (weather dependent) includes music and food on Thursdays in June beginning at 6:30 p.m. Raquel Lilly kicks off the series. Saks Plaza at The Summit Shopping Center. thesummitbirmingham.com/ event/sounds-of-summer/.
JUNE Through Sept. 4: Alabama Splash Adventure. Two theme parks provide wet and dry attractions, including miles of slides, thousands of gallons of water, waves, lazy rivers, the Rampage roller coaster and rides for younger children. Try monster slides, Wipeout Adventure Course, Mistical Maze, Laser Maze Challenge and more. 4599 Alabama Adventure Parkway, Bessemer (Exit 110 at I-459 & I-20). alabamasplash.com.
2-3: Steel City Jazz Festival. Smooth and rockin’ are the operative words for this cool fest in the heart of the city. Included in the lineup are Marion Meadows, David Sanborn, Norman Brown and Kirk Whalum, Jeffrey Osborne, Boney James and the O’Jays. Linn Park. steelcityjazzfestbham.com. 2-3: Magic City Brewfest. This summer, cool down at the premiere festival for Alabama’s craft beer. This popular event serves up specialty beers including many rare and cask ales never before available in Alabama. Sloss Furnaces National Historic Landmark. magiccitybrewfest.com.
8-9: Spring Film Fest. Thursday’s program will feature short propaganda films from the 1980s to the 1920s; Friday’s program will feature films from this year’s Birmingham Underground FilmFest, a collection of independent films from around the world. Take a chair or blanket. Oak Hill Cemetery, 1120 19th St. North. Photos special to the Journal
Saturdays through Dec. 9: The Market at Pepper Place. Saturday mornings, 7 a.m.-noon, Alabama farmers, food purveyors, artists and craftsmen show up for the city’s biggest weekly farmers’ market. Pepper Place, 2829 Second Ave. South. pepperplacemarket.com.
9-10: Steel City Model Train Show. Vendors and layouts of all scales. Bessemer Civic Center. 2017serconvention.com.
June 29: I Love America Night. The 6 p.m. event includes free swim, children’s activities, Pops in the Park concert and a family movie. Wald Park in Vestavia Hills. vestaviahills.org.
COME PLAY! Plenty is Happening This Summer in the Magic City
2-3: Made South. Meet Southern artists and craftsmen and enjoy music, food from local chefs and drink tastings from regional distilleries. Hoover Metropolitan Stadium. madesouth.com. 2-3: Alabama Symphony Orchestra Ebsco Masterworks Series. Tchaikovsky’s Violin Concerto. Andreas Delfs returns to Birmingham to conduct Brahms’ joyful Second Symphony. Alys Robinson Stephens Performing Arts Center. alabamasymphony.org/masterworks_15-16.htm. 2-3: Rock the South. Sam Hunt and Luke Bryan are among those scheduled to appear at what’s billed as “the biggest party in the South.” Heritage Park, Cullman. rockthesouth.com.
OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL
17-18: Tannehill Trade Days. Held the third weekend of each month, March through November, trade days, with more than 300 vendors, offers such options as tools, clothing, jewelry, knives, furniture and other treasures. (No pets or bicycles.) Tannehill Ironworks Historical State Park, McCalla. tannehill.org.
JULY 1: Magic City Con. A pop culture, comic and fan convention draws fans of cosplay, sci-fi, anime, fantasy, art, comics, film and TV, as well as table top and video gaming. Participants celebrate their favorite fandoms and meet special guests during a weekend of activities and events. Hyatt Regency Wynfrey Hotel. magiccitycon.com. 4: Fourth of July Festival. The 68th annual Fourth of July barbecue is one of Homewood’s longest-running food festivals. Our Lady of Sorrows Catholic Church, 1728 Oxmoor Road. ourladyofsorrows.com.
June 9-Aug. 13: Summer Film Series. Alabama Theatre, 1817 Third Ave. North. alabamatheatre.com.
9: Jazz in the Park. Phil Denny and Joe Carnaggio Trio are on tap. Helena Amphitheater. magiccitysmoothjazz.com. 14-16: G2K Cinderella. Red Mountain Theatre Company presents a specially crafted fairy tale featuring the beloved songs and familiar characters of the Cinderella story in a condensed script for younger audiences. RMTC Cabaret
OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL
Thursday, May 18, 2017 • 25
SUMMER FUN
Theatre, 301 19th St. North. redmountaintheatre.org/our-season/ G2K-Cinderella.
MAY 27 – SEPTEMBER 4
14: Comedian Tim Hawkins. One of the country’s most in-demand comedians offers a hilarious look at daily life. BJCC. timhawkins.net. 15: Float Your Boat Festival. The eighth annual event includes balsawood boat races starting at noon, with prizes, the city of Pinson’s “Beat the Heat” ice cream give-away, food, swimming and a kids’ fun zone. Turkey Creek Nature Preserve, Pinson. turkeycreeknp.com.
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AUGUST
CREATE YOUR EXPERIENCE
4-5: Secret Stages Festival. The two-day music discovery festival will include more than 60 up-and-coming artists. Now in its seventh year, the event assembles some of the region’s best Southern talent to seven stages. Venues around downtown Birmingham. secretstages.net. 13: Jazz in the Park. Take a chair or blanket to this free concert, 6-9 p.m. Arlington Antebellum Home and Gardens. magiccitysmoothjazz.com.
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July 4: Thunder on the Mountain 2017 will once again illuminate the skies above Birmingham’s beloved iron man, Vulcan. Starting at 9 p.m. Free to the public. visitvulcan.com
25-27: Sidewalk Film Festival. Independent filmmakers from across the country will screen their work at multiple venues in Birmingham’s historic Theater District. MovieMaker Magazine has named the event one of 2017’s “50 Film Festivals Worth the Entry Fee.” Downtown Theater District. sidewalkfest.com.
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25-27: Rick and Bubba Outdoor Expo. If you love the outdoors, this is the place with a focus on hunting and fishing. Expect outdoor retailers and organizations from across the country, hundreds of exhibitors plus autograph and photo sessions with Rick and Bubba. BJCC Exhibition Halls. rickandbubbaoutdoorexpo.com. 26: Taste of 4th Avenue Jazz Festival. During this annual event, local and national jazz artists perform on historic Fourth Avenue, once the hub of Birmingham’s African-American business community. Food available. Fourth Avenue North between 16th and 18th streets. 4thavenuejazz.org.
Design Zone is a highly interactive, hands-on exhibit where visitors can explore a variety of creative concepts to learn the processes and tools needed to create successful design.
ALABAMA SHAKES July 15-16: Sloss Music & Arts Festival. The third annual event showcases more than 40 bands on four stages plus craft beer, creative cocktails, arts, crafts and iron-pouring demonstrations. Sloss Furnaces. slossfest.com.
CLEAR EYES FULL HEARTS CAN’T LOSE SUNDAYS AT 8:15 & 10:45 AM
26: Tannehill VolksJam. Billing itself as the state’s “premier Volkswagen show,” the event is open to all years, types and conditions of Volkswagens and Audis. Tannehill Ironworks Historical State Park, McCalla. tannehill.org/events.html.
As things do change and weather can alter plans, verify dates and hours before setting out for any event. Better safe than sorry. Based in Vestavia Hills, Lynn Grisard Fullman is a professional writer who has contributed to numerous newspapers, magazines and blogs. For more information on other special events, contact the Greater Birmingham Convention & Visitors Bureau: inbirmingham.com or 4588000. Or to learn about other events, check out birminghamal. org/events-calendar.
August 11-20: Birmingham Restaurant Week. The event celebrates Birmingham’s acclaimed culinary culture by spotlighting locally owned and operated restaurants. Various locations including Slice, Pho, Rusty’s Bar-B-Q and Oscar’s at the Museum. bhamrestaurantweek.com.
OAK MOUNTAIN PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH
5080 Cahaba Valley Trace • Birmingham, AL 35242 #wheregraceabounds
26 • Thursday, May 18, 2017
SCHOOLS
OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL
From left: Delores Brooks, chapter regent; Rachel Dees; David Dees; Janet Dees; and Deborah Reid, Good Citizen chair.
DAR Awards State Scholarship to Hoover’s Dees Daughters of the American Revolution presented its Good Citizen Scholarship to Rachel Lynn Dees of Hoover in March during a state conference held in Auburn. Dees, accompanied by her parents, Janet and David Dees, read her award-winning essay, “Our American Heritage and Our Responsibility for Preserving It,” during an April 11 meeting of the Birmingham Territory Chapter, DAR. The essay addressed the question: “How do the combined actions of many good citizens keep our nation moving forward?”
Dees’ performance in the essay portion, in addition to her academic and good citizenship qualities, earned her the award. Dees now moves on to compete in the National DAR Good Citizen Scholarship Award, which will be presented during the National Society Daughters of the American Revolution’s 126th Continental Congress in Washington, D.C., this June. Dees, a graduating senior at Spain Park High School, plans to attend Auburn University this fall. ❖ and Virginia Kate Brandt. The team won the Robot Skills Champion award at the state championship in April, earning its ticket to the world championship later that month. For two days, the team fought against the top teams from more than 30 countries to earn its fifth-place award.
LPMS’ Mithun Subhash Honored by Duke TIP
From left: Venice Sanders, Destiny Bibbs, Raneisha Smith, Diane Huynh and Skylar Morriss.
The Bill Crawford Educational Foundation of the Homewood Rotary Club recently awarded scholarships totaling $24,000 to five 2017 graduates of Homewood High School. This year’s recipients are Venice Sanders, Destiny Bibbs, Raneisha Smith, Diane Huynh and Skylar Morriss. This year’s recipients were introduced to club members by the Bill Crawford Educational Foundation chairman Lawrence Corley at a recent Rotary meeting at Homewood Public Library. Each spoke of their high school experience and future plans. The club raised funds throughout the year to provide scholarships to Homewood High School students. Fundraising events included a St. Patrick’s Day event at Red Hills Brewery, a Sidewalk Chalk Art Festival at We Love Homewood Day and an SEC Championship package drawing.
MBJH Robotics Scores High in World Championship
The Mountain Brook Junior High robotics program fielded a team in the Vex IQ tournament this year, making it to the world championship. The team, “The Nutria Rats,” won big for the state, placing fifth in the World Champions of Engineering Division. Team members were Fletcher Nunnelley, Virginia Cobbs, Jack Brandt
through Duke TIP, Subhash is one of 2,072 who were invited to the Grand Recognition Ceremony. “As an alum of our seventhgrade talent search, I still remember how it felt to be recognized by Duke and TIP in seventh grade, as well as my excitement and anxiety at taking the SAT at such Mithun Subhash a young age,” said Shawna Young, executive director of Duke TIP. “As an organization, we cherish the opportunity to celebrate each of our ceremonies honorees for such an outstanding accomplishment.”
Local Student First in Alabama to Win FTC Dean’s List Award
Photo special to the Journal
Homewood High Seniors Receive Rotary Scholarships
Mithun Subhash, a sixth-grade student from Liberty Park Middle School in Vestavia Hills, is among the students being honored by the Duke University Talent Identification Program at a Grand Recognition Ceremony on May 22 in Durham, North Carolina. Subhash was discovered through the seventh-grade talent search, which identifies students across the United States who have scored at or above the 95th percentile on a grade-level standardized test. Through the program, he will take above-level college-entrance exams to learn more about his abilities. Of the 53,843 students who took the exams
Our Lady of Sorrows Catholic School recently hosted its annual Ultimate Author Day, inviting local professionals and public figures to the school to share their expertise. The theme of this year’s program was “America –The Right to Write” and included patriotic and educational activities. “We are so excited about this year’s patriotic theme,” said OLS Principal Mary Jane Dorn. “We want our students to continue to be proud of our country and to never forget how precious our freedoms are. Since the children are our future, we felt the importance to rejuvenate their enthusiasm about patriotism through their writing and have the opportunity to learn from other professionals and volunteers in the community.” Throughout the school year, each OLS student in grades Wee-K3 through eighth grade wrote, illustrated and published their own books, which were put on display for the UAD event. “We had a very diverse group of speakers this year,” said Cindy Westbrook, OLS teacher and UAD chairperson. “We not only have wellknown authors sharing their experiences, but also other professionals who provided an interesting and educational day celebrating patriotism with our students,” she said. Speakers included: retired Maj. Gen. Mike Diamond, author and CEO of Diamond Strategy Process; retired Judge Sonny Ferguson, 10th Judicial Circuit Court and 1969 AllSEC football player for Auburn; Crestline Elementary’s Callie
From left: Virginia Cobbs, Fletcher Nunnelley, Virginia Kate Brandt and Jack Brandt.
On April 21, Elizabeth Bray, a junior at Stonecreek Montessori Academy, won the First Tech Challenge Robotics Dean’s List Award at the 2017 World Championship in Houston, Texas. Bray was one of only 10 winners
Photo special to the Journal
Photo special to the Journal
OLS Ultimate Author Day Brings In Local Writers and Professionals
Retired Judge Sonny Ferguson and his granddaughter Peyton Bradford at OLS’s Ultimate Author Day.
Chapman, author of the “Glitter the Unicorn” series; John Tidwell, general manager of Guadalupe Radio Network; Jan Weisberg, Birmingham Southern College head baseball coach; the Rev. Wilfred Emeh of Camaroon, author, blogger and OLS associate pastor; and Rita Collins, children’s book author, teacher and performer. Other speakers included: Dana Travis, senior VP brand manager in marketing; Tosha Tran, owner and chef of the Fresh Off the Bun food truck; Babe Ruff of the Birmingham Barons; Mona MacDougall of Bali, Indonesia; Brother Leo Mary, MFVA-Franciscan Missionaries of Eternal Word, host of EWTN children’s show and author; Kelly Mann Holt of Backstage Dance Studio; Ken Berg of the Birmingham Boys Choir; Ashlee Motyka, art teacher; Rusty Yerkes, Samford University professor of finance; and the Rev. Douglas Vu of Saint Stephen Chapel at UAB. ❖ worldwide, selected from 145 finalists. She is the first student from Alabama to receive this award. First was founded by Segway creator Dean Kamen in 1989, and in 2010, the Dean’s List Award began as a way to recognize students who showcase superior passion for and effectiveness at attaining First ideals. More than 50,000 students participate in FTC competitions each year, of which 145 are named finalists and travel to the World Championships. Bray has competed in First Robotics since the age of seven and has competed at the First Lego League Jr., First Lego League and FTC levels, winning multiple team awards over the years. She was nominated by her team, the Robostangs, for the Dean’s List award and went through an interview and judging process at the Alabama state FTC championship in January. She was one of two Alabama students to be named a finalist for the award and the first from the state to win it. Bray has been given a free trip to First headquarters in New Hampshire, along with a free summer session at Worcester Polytechnic Institute in Massachusetts, in addition to other rewards. ❖
OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL
SCHOOLS
Thursday, May 18, 2017 • 27
Mountain Brook High School’s yearbook program has been named a 2017 Jostens National Yearbook Program of Excellence. The award, announced May 3, recognizes programs that produce engaging yearbooks that reflect a broad representation of the student body while helping students develop skills. Mountain Brook’s program is led by editors Marley Barnett, Nick Bruno and Charlotte Farrar under the direction of advisers Brooke Hawkins and Jill McGee. “Mountain Brook High School’s 2017 yearbook staff has created an inclusive yearbook, generating school engagement, and successfully managing the yearbook creation process commemorating their fiftieth
Simmons’ Langford Named 2017 Outstanding Middle School Science Teacher
Dana Langford, a Simmons Middle School science teacher, recently was named the 2017 Outstanding Middle School Science Teacher by the Alabama Science Teachers Association. Langford was recognized during the ASTA’s conference at the McWane Science Center in Birmingham. Dana Langford Langford has been teaching for 22 years and is in her sixth year at Simmons. She started the school’s Science Club for sixthgraders, attended NASA’s Space Camp for Teachers, and is a trainer for the Alabama Math, Science and Technology Initiative. In 2013, Langford was awarded a grant from Fund for Teachers to study volcanoes in Costa Rica.
Branche Joins AHSAA Leadership Team
Caroline Branche, a member of the Briarwood Christian High School girls’ golf team, was among 16 studentathletes selected for the AHSAA Leadership Team. The members of the team, chaired by Denise Ainsworth, were chosen from more than 149 applicants representing each of the eight Alabama High School Athletic Association districts. In its third year, the team is selected by Caroline Branche a committee of three – Ainsworth, Kim Vickers and Marvin Chou – after applicants participate in
Photo special to the Journal
MBHS Scores Jostens Yearbook Award
2017 Olympian editors Charlotte Farrar, Marley Barnett and Nick Bruno. edition,” Jeremy Grubbs, a senior yearbook representative for Jostens, said in a press release. The Josten awards are presented
each spring and fall. Mountain Brook High School will receive a gem-studded recognition pin and banner to mark the award. ❖
rigorous evaluations and reevaluations. The committee then selects one boy and one girl from each district to be a part of the team. As a team member, Caroline Branche attended a two-day leadership conference on March 8-9, held at the downtown Montgomery Embassy Suites Hotel. The students participated in sessions geared toward developing leadership traits, toured the AHSAA offices and Hyundai Plant, and learned how to take the information they gathered back to their schools and communities. In addition to golf, Branche is the vice president and president-elect of the Ronald McDonald House Student Leadership Council, the communications officer of the American Heart Association Sweetheart Guild, a Briarwood Christian High School Student Ambassador and a Briarwood Christian High School Ronald McDonald special events coordinator. She recently was selected to serve as a 2017/2018 Birmingham Belle.
Homewood Bands Honored at Chamber’s Excellence in Education Luncheon
Pizitz’ Jason DiRusso Competes at National Geographic Bee
Jason DiRusso, an eighth-grade student at Louis Pizitz Middle School in Vestavia Hills, competed in the National Geographic Bee in Washington D.C., May 14-17. The final rounds will air May 19 on the National Geographic Channel. Each year, Jason DiRusso roughly 4,600 geography bee winners vie for 54 spots in the national championship. To seal his spot at nationals, DiRusso won the Alabama state geography bee, hosted March 31 at Samford University, and received a cash prize and travel for two to the national competition. At the final event, hosted by Mo Rocca, $85,000 in scholarships were at stake.
During the Homewood Chamber of Commerce’s annual Excellence in Education luncheon, event sponsor Sam’s Club presented donations to Homewood school bands. Serving as keynote speakers for the April 18 event, held at The Club, were band directors Ron Pence of Homewood High School and Chris Cooper of Homewood Middle School. Both directors were presented checks by a Sam’s representative in the amount of $1,000 for the Homewood High School Patriot Band and $500 for the Homewood Middle School Band. The speakers recognized and honored five students from each of the Homewood area schools for their excellence in music: Chandler Harris of Homewood High School, son of Scott and Janet Harris; Thien Ha (Anna) Nguyen of Homewood Middle School, daughter of Ha and Linh Nguyen; Jackson Warren of Edgewood Elementary School, son of Chris and Catherine Warren; Kayla Warren of Hall-Kent Elementary School, daughter of Cornelious and Danielle Warren; and Grace Howard Weinberg of Shades Cahaba Elementary School, daughter of Kenneth Weinberg and Jennifer Howard. ❖
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BUSINESS
28 • Thursday, May 18, 2017
By June Mathews
The Italian Job Tour Guide Gives Clients an Inside View of His Native Country
Photo special to the Journal
When Andrea Traina first came to the United States, starting a business was not part of his plan. A graphic designer by trade, he originally intended to work at a relative’s construction company for a year or two before returning home to Italy. Then he began teaching an Italian language class in Samford University’s evening program, Samford After Sundown, and his plans changed. “Much of the time in the class was taken up with questions about Italy,” said Traina. “I was talking one day to the director of the program about how the class was going, and she suggested a workshop on weekends about getting ready for an Italian trip.” The first workshop took place in March 2010, and 22 people attended. Two couples in the class already were planning trips to Italy later that year, but Traina’s workshop changed their minds about where they wanted to go and what they wanted to do on their trip. They eventually came to him with a request: “If we pay your expenses, will you take us?” “At that time, I was still working for the construction company. But, fortunately, the person running the company was my great-uncle,” said Traina, “so I asked him, and he said, ‘Sure, that’s not a problem. Do it.’” So, in September 2011, Traina headed to Italy with his first tour group, and his career as a travel guide was born. “I never thought it was going to be a job,” he said. “I remember when we came back, two of the gentlemen said, ‘You should do this all the time. We would probably use you again.’” So Traina started telling people he was going to plan another trip, and many of them said, “Let us know when. We’d like to go,” Traina said.
Slice Pizza Opening in Vestavia Hills
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Slice Pizza & Brewhouse will be opening a new restaurant in Vestavia Hills. Slice Blue Lake will be near Cahaba River Road adjacent to Lifetime Fitness and the Patchwork Farms development at 3104 Timberlake Road. “We are excited and grateful to be expanding the Slice brand with a new location,” said Jeff Bajalieh, co-owner of Slice, Sol’s Deli and Sky Castle with his brothers, Jason and Chris. “Thanks to the community for your continued support that allows us to do what we love every day.” Black Design Architects will design the 3,800-square-foot space, which will include the historic colors and ambiance from the original Lakeview location with modern touches of tree bark siding and metal. Gonzalez Strength is the Civil engineer on the project and Longleaf Realty Partners
“We try not to go into ‘touristy’ areas too much. You’ve got to see the tourist spots, no doubt, but if you only go to those places, you won’t experience the country.” ANDREA TRAINA Since then, he’s taken numerous groups to his native Italy, gradually increasing the number of trips from two in 2012 to 13 in 2016. Even more are planned for 2017, and he’s already booked through June 2018. Word of mouth has been his best advertising, pulling in clients from 17 states, including Missouri, Arizona, Florida, Louisiana, New York, Texas and California. Since the groups have gotten bigger, Traina now has two assistants to help manage the trips and share guide duties.
will be handling acquisition and development.
Deborah Alley Smith Has Been Elected to American Academy of Appellate Lawyers
Deborah Alley Smith, managing partner in the law firm of Christian & Small, has been elected to the American Academy of Appellate Lawyers. “I am so honored to join such a talented and impressive Deborah Alley Smith group of attorneys as a member of the American Academy of Appellate Lawyers,” Smith said in a statement. “I appreciate the academy’s consideration and look forward to being an active and engaged member of this preeminent organization.” The academy was founded in 1990 to recognize outstanding appellate
“When you’ve got 11 people wanting to do 11 different things, it’s impossible for one person to handle everything,” he said. “It helps to split the groups and take them different places.” No stranger to travel – from age 17 to 28 he traveled all over Italy and Eastern Europe as a member of a rowing team – Traina has become adept at shuttling his groups from place to place and giving them an insider’s view of his native country. Thanks to his grandfather, a retired Italian
lawyers and promote the improvement of appellate advocacy and the administration of the appellate courts, according to the statement. Candidates for membership must be nominated by an academy member, reviewed and approved by a membership committee and elected during an academy meeting. The academy limits its membership to 500 lawyers in the United States. To be eligible, a nominee’s practice must have focused substantially on appeals during at least the previous 15 years. Smith, who specializes in postjudgment and appellate litigation, is a fellow of the American Bar Foundation and a member of the 2014 class of Leadership Birmingham. She is ranked among the Top 50 2016 Women MidSouth Super Lawyers and the Top 50 2016 Alabama Super Lawyers. She also has been recognized by Chambers USA, the Best Lawyers in America® and Benchmark Litigation. Smith serves on Teach for AmericaAlabama’s advisory board and the Birmingham Business Alliance’s board of directors. She is immediate past president of the Birmingham Bar Foundation’s board of directors.
OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL
Army general, Traina knows Italy like the back of his hand. The two often spent part of the summer traveling together. “My grandfather was an inspiration to me, and he knew all of Italy really well,” said Traina. “He told me, ‘You have the rest of your life to see the world, but it’s my duty to show you your country.’” When leading a tour, Traina is with his clients the whole time, customizing their Italian experience according to their wishes and taking them to operas, historic sites, wineries and other points of interest. Before a trip even gets underway, he’s already put in a lot of work booking flights, arranging for travel insurance and helping clients get the most from any rewards programs or frequent flyer miles they might have. “There’s a lot of stuff that has to be done, but they don’t have to worry about anything,” he said. “My prices are really good, and that’s probably because I do everything myself.” And though he bases his efforts on what clients ask for, Traina does have one overall rule of his own that he tries to follow. “We try not to go into ‘touristy’ areas too much,” he said. “You’ve got to see the tourist spots, no doubt, but if you only go to those places, you won’t experience the country.” Another critical part of the job is to stay in tune with each group and adjust the pace accordingly. “If somebody’s tired, you have to slow down; if it’s been a long day, we don’t do anything the next morning,” he said. “You don’t want a person to get cranky. If they get cranky, you have not done your job. You don’t want them to have bad memories of their trip.” For more information on Andrea Traina, his language classes and travel services, visit myitalianvacay.com. ❖
Vestavia’s Taylor Recieves Food Marketing Institute National Award
The Food Marketing Institute recently awarded Ellie Taylor, president of the Alabama Grocers Association, the 2017 Donald H. McManus award in recognition of her leadership and dedication to the grocery industry. FMI President and CEO Leslie G. Sarasin presented Taylor with the award during FMI’s Day in Washington event on Ellie Taylor Capitol Hill. “Ellie’s passion for the food retail community is evident as she tirelessly dedicates herself to improving her community and the entire industry,” said Sarasin. Taylor has been involved in the food retail industry for more than 20 years. She was instrumental in creating Eat At Home Alabama, a campaign that provided customers with tools to save
money at grocery stores, materials on how to effectively use coupons, recipes and food safety information. In 2015, she lobbied for a bill to establish the Healthy Food Financing Fund, which provides loans and grants for the construction, expansion and renovation of grocery stores in lowerincome, underserved areas of the state. She also worked with the state to expand the number of days each month that Supplemental Nutrition Assistant Program recipients could buy groceries. Taylor has implemented Buy Alabama Best, a campaign designed to inform and educate consumers on what products are made, produced, manufactured and/or headquartered in the state of Alabama. Proceeds from the sales of Alabama products will benefit Children’s of Alabama. She previously served as the Southern representative on the FMI Government Relations Committee and has served on the board of directors for the Food Industry Association Executives. She is a past award winner of the Grocery Industry “Women Who Make a Difference” award and is a member of the Food Industry Hall of Fame. ❖
OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL
Thursday, May 18, 2017 • 29
BUSINESS
Making Connections
Vestavia Hills Chamber Pairs Students with Local Businesses By Emily Williams
to pay our civic rent.” Through the program, Odle said, the chamber hopes students will understand the importance of local businesses and what they give back to the community. “We want them to learn more about the city and maybe visit some
G.R.E.A.T Event Planned
The Metro-Birmingham Professional Women’s Association will host its 31st annual “Getting Ready for Excellence In America Today” (G.R.E.A.T.) scholarship luncheon and fashion show June 3, from 11 a.m.-2 p.m. at The Harber Center. Doors open at 10 a.m. and the event will feature a plated luncheon, fashion show, door prizes and vendor sales. Tickets are $30 and must be purchased in advance. For more information, visit the group’s Facebook page. ❖
Photo special to the Journal
By looking at their social media presence from a business standpoint, she said they will learn that how they While choosing their classes for present themselves on various this fall, Vestavia Hills High School forums will directly affect their own students were given the chance to success. apply for a brand new program: the “Social media is here to stay City Youth Connection, an initiative whether we like it or not and we’ve of the Vestavia Hills Chamber of got to embrace Commerce that it,” Odle said. pairs students “And by me, I with local busimean us older nesses to give adults. If you are them business a business and skills firsthand. you are sticking According to your head in the chamber sand it is going Executive to come back to Director Karen haunt you.” Odle, the group “We want of participants these students to have been narunderstand the rowed down to importance of 18 rising juniors local businesses, and seniors and particularly retail 20 local busibusinesses, and nesses. how their success “We wanted drives the comto limit the ‘We want these students munity,” Odle number of stusaid. dents to 20. We to understand the She noted that ended up choosimportance of local the increasing ing after looking at each one businesses, particularly desires of the Vestavia Hills closely. We retail businesses, and community for needed them to be committed,” how their success drives amenities such as a new communiOdle said. the community.’ ty center, The students improved sidehad to submit KAREN ODLE, walks and new an application EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR ball fields at that showcased VESTAVIA HILLS CHAMBER places such as their character Wald Park, all and skills. They take money. Part also had to of the students’ maintain a GPA lessons will be that successful local of 3.0 or higher. businesses are key ingredients to After she sent out an email to chamber members, Odle said she was help the city make these kinds of improvements a reality through the surprised by the positive comments money they generate in taxes and she heard. their donations. While working with the students, “We want them to understand that each business will not only have the correlation of businesses being vital opportunity to mentor someone, but to a thriving community,” she said. also to use the students’ skills to betThe result the chamber wants to ter their own business. see in these students is a better sense Odle has found that many chamof business in general. According to ber members seek help managing Odle, “whether you are a street social media, something these stusweeper or a neurosurgeon,” the dents innately understand, having basics of business can be related to grown up with the media. any chosen career path. “We host a lot of digital market“A doctor could be fabulous at ing seminars because a lot of busiwhat they do, but they often leave nesses either aren’t using social media or don’t know how to use it in the business side of things to someone else by hiring in,” Odle said. the right ways. When it’s used corShe also said that, at a recent rectly, it can be an incredible tool for meeting about the program, board them,” she said. members noted that many colleges With the students’ abilities to are beginning to require some kind navigate the different social media of business course for nearly all of forums, the program officials also their students. By entering their colsee an opportunity for the kids to legiate career with this program on learn more about their own internet their resume, Odle hopes it will set presence. the students apart from their peers “Hopefully this will help them think about how these methods relate and give them a leg up in the future. “Hopefully they will also underto them – how these things they do stand the value of contributing to the on the internet are there forever – and make the connection to the audi- community,” Odle said. “I firmly believe that every person – young, ence that they are targeting,” she old or what have you – we all need said.
stores and shops and get to know people that they wouldn’t have known about otherwise,” she said. In addition to working with the businesses, Odle said, students will help the chamber itself “behind the scenes,” volunteering at the organization’s events, helping set up booths and tents and cleaning up afterward. “We want them to see parts of all of the things we do in the community, not just through the businesses, but the quality of life and community,” Odle said. ❖
“We gladly recommend our REALTOR® Thad Lowery.” JeNorri and Winslow Armstead with their children Cali, Caeten, and Canon
JeNorri and Winslow Armstead can’t say enough nice things about their real estate agent Thad Lowery with ARC Realty. “Thad was attentive to every need we had in the process of buying a home,” says Winslow. “In fact, usually when I called with a question, it was something he’d already considered and knew the answer.” Having a professional like Thad involved made it easier for JeNorri to manage the demands of a growing family. “I didn’t have to worry about anything having to do with buying the house,” she says. “Thad was on top of it.” For more information on buying or selling a home with Thad’s help or to see all of his listings online, visit arcrealtyco.com.
A Relationship Company 4274 Cahaba Heights Court, Suite 200 Birmingham, AL 35243 • 205.969.8910 www.arcrealtyco.com
Thad Lowery • (205) 965-6299 • tlowery@arcrealtyco.com
30 • Thursday, May 18, 2017
SPORTS
OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL
student athlete at the high school in the 1980’s, playing baseball, basketball and football for the Patriots before graduating in 1987.
Doug Gann has served as a physical education teacher and coach in Homewood for 18 years.
Homewood Announces New Athletic Director
Homewood City Schools recently announced that Homewood High School’s Doug Gann will serve as the new athletic director for the school system. Gann has served as a physical education teacher and coach in Homewood for 18 years. Currently serving as head coach of the high school’s varsity baseball team, Gann led the Patriots to eight playoff appearances and has an overall record of 247-145. He began his athletic career as a
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“Doug Gann is an outstanding teacher as well as a seasoned and experienced high school coach. His experience, his knowledge and his ability to work with student athletes will serve him well in his new role as athletic director at Homewood High School,” school Principal Dr. Zack Barnes said. While in Homewood, Gann also served as the freshman basketball coach and an assistant football coach. Before coming to Homewood, he was a coach and teacher in the Hoover School System. Gann said he was excited by the opportunity. “Homewood is a very special place to me, and I have been blessed to be a part of the athletic program most of my life,” he said. “I have thoroughly enjoyed the last 25 years teaching and coaching, and I look forward to working with our administrators, coaches and student-athletes in a different capacity.” Gann earned a bachelor of science degree from the University of Alabama at Birmingham with a certification in physical education. While at UAB, he was a member of the Blazer baseball and football teams. In 1997, he received his master of arts in education from the University of Montevallo. ❖
Members of the Altamont boys tennis team include, from left: Spencer Skidmore, Aaron Miller, Arjun Lakhanpal, coach Barry Bearden, Arjun Guru, Chris Mines and Mac Lidikay.
Knight Show
Altamont Claims 1A-3A Tennis Title By Lee Davis For the Altamont School, a chance for a coveted state tennis championship came down to one last match. Locked in a tough two-way battle with six-time state champion Montgomery Academy, the Knights needed one last win to avoid a sudden death playoff. They got it. The tandem of Mac Lidikay an Arjun Laphanpal defeated Montgomery 6-2 6-0 to claim the doubles victory and the state championship trophy. Altamont totaled 61 team points in claiming the win, with
Montgomery Academy finishing second with 55 points. Houston Academy was third with 47 points. The Knights’ Chris Mines won the state championship for the number two seed, while teammate Laphanpal claimed the number three seed title. Lidikay was runner-up in the sixth seed position. In doubles play, Mines and Guru earned first place in the number two seed. Lidikay and Lakhanpal took home the top prize in the number three seed. Spencer Scidmore and Sameer Sultan finished second in the number one doubles competition. Altamont coach Barry Bearden praised his team for its efforts on and off the court. “The boys set the goal of winning the state championship at the beginning of the season and worked hard to make it happen,” Bearden said. “They are a great group of young men who get it done in tennis as well as in the classroom.” ❖
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‘Homewood is a very special place to me, and I have been blessed to be a part of the athletic program most of my life.’
John Carroll Student Athlete Invited to Play in Europe John Carroll’s girls lacrosse team. “She John Carroll Catholic High School works hard and encourages her teamsophomore Lexie Toney has been mates to do the same. She has a great invited to play on Team AIST, a USA attitude and is definitely a leader on lacrosse team that competes in Europe the team.” during the summer. As a part of Team AIST, she will “The experience will be amazing,” compete against other stuLexie said in a statement. dent athletes from around “Where we’re playing, it’s the world on a team just something that not a lot coached by some of the best of people get to experience. lacrosse coaches in the I think it’s really cool that I country. During a 10-day get to do something that I period, they will travel really love while I’m travelthroughout the United ing in Europe.” Kingdom to play select Lexie began playing international teams in exhilacrosse in the sixth grade bition and tournament in the Hoover community games. Among the places and plays the midfield posithey will play are Chester, tion at John Carroll. In her Lexie Toney was the only freshLondon and Edinburgh. two years at the school, she man selected last In addition to succeeding has scored 100 goals. She year for the US was the only freshman Lacrosse Alabama– on the field, Lexie maintains selected last year for the US Mississippi Chapter: a 3.95 grade point average. First All-State Team “I love the sport so much Lacrosse Alabama– I want to play in college,” Mississippi Chapter: First for Alabama. she said. “It’s what keeps me All-State Team for motivated to work hard in both school Alabama. “Lexie is a great asset to our team,” and in lacrosse to reach my goal to play the next level.” ❖ said Maddie Golden, head coach of
All-Metro South Conference Team Selected
Players have been selected for the All-Metro South Conference softball team based on their performance this season. Members pictured and their schools are: Front, from left: Nikki Hammond, Pizitz; Annie Kate Parks, Pizitz; Gwynnie Hornibrook, Liberty Park; Bella Shimko-Lofano, Liberty Park; Brookelyn Cannon, Bumpus; Eva Guenster, Bumpus; Emma Jolley, Berry; Katherine Brown, Berry; Jakaria Byrd, Homewood; and Zoe Couch, Homewood. Back: Coach of the Year Bill Mann, Pizitz; Dawn Autry, Oak Mountain; Julia Tucker, Oak Mountain; Sarah Beth Brake, Bragg; Rylee Bartlett, Bragg; Campbell Hecklinski, Simmons; Abby Fortner, Simmons; Savanna Rutledge, Hewitt; Riley Rudick, Hewitt; Lindsey Cook, Thompson; and Kaylee Cannon, Thompson. Not pictured: Chloe Hontzas, Mountain Brook; and Sarah Huddle, Mountain Brook.
TRACK, From page 32
defeat second place Mountain Brook at 83.5. In Class 6A, the Homewood Patriot girls easily defeated second place Opelika 128-80 to claim their fourth straight title. The Patriot boys finished second in Class 6A behind Opelika. Individual winners in Class 7A boys competition included Hoover’s Trent Hammer and Luke Ballard, who won the 800-meter run and javelin throw, respectively. Spain Park’s Christian Strong won the 110-meter run. Vestavia Hills’ James Sweeney
took first place in the 3,200-meter run, and the Rebels’ Walter Thomas brought home the shot put title. The Bucs also claimed a team championship in the 4x800 meter relay. In girls Class 7A, Hoover’s Caitlyn Little claimed top prizes in the 100meter dash and 100-meter hurdles. The Lady Bucs’ Chakiya Plummer won the 300-meter run. Oak Mountain’s Nicole Payne triumphed in the 400-meter dash and Mountain Brook’s Sophie Jane Knott took the pole vault championship. Homewood’s domination of the Class 6A girls competition was reflected by the Lady Patriots’ impressive number of first place finishes. Jasmine
Griffith claimed the 100-meter and 400-meter runs. Ann Mosely Whitsett won the 800-meter run. Lainey Phelps earned first place in the 1,600-meter dash and Celie Jackson took home the top prize in the 3,200-meter run. Caroline Lawrence won the 4x400 meter relay. The Lady Patriots also claimed a team championship in the 4x400 meter relay. Westminster Oak-Mountain grabbed the boys Class 1A title and The Altamont School’s girls won the Class 2A title. Westminster’s Nate Collins collected the 800-, 1,600- and 3,200-meter title runs and Altamont’s Sophie Cornelius achieved the pole vault crown. ❖
Two Tickets to Paradise
The winning rally came in the seventh inning. Drew Guffey’s single drove in two runs and Nolan Hammonds knocked in the third run with a long hit to centerfield. “We haven’t lasted long in the playoffs the last couple of years,” Guffey said. “This senior class knew this was our time. Why couldn’t this be our year?” Hoover may have gotten an inkling that 2017 could be its year after the first game of the bestof-three series. The Bucs rallied from an 8-3 deficit in the seventh inning to force extra innings. Guffey’s single in the ninth inning started Hoover’s rally. Hammonds followed with a double to center. Peyton Wilson’s hit scored the winning run. After the second victory, Guffey said the dramatic comeback win in game one was a sign that his team was special. “When we were in the dugout trailing 8-3, we all kept saying that the Hoover Bucs weren’t
finished,” he explained. “We believed and didn’t quit. There wasn’t a guy in the dugout that didn’t believe we’d find a way to win.” Vestavia coach Jamie Harris was philosophical in defeat. “We had our chances,” he said. “We made some plays, but not enough of them. We have nothing to hang our heads about. At one point in the season we were 5-8, and we picked ourselves up and made it to the semi-finals. We showed a lot of toughness and character in the last month of the season, and I’m very proud of our guys.” Andrew Knight paced the Rebels with two hits. Griffin Lape, pitching three shutout innings, got the win for Hoover. He allowed only one hit. “Comebacks in both games,” Hoover coach Adam Moseley said. “I’m just thankful. Very thankful.” Defeating a traditional rival in an intense series with a possible state championship on the line is a lot for which to be thankful, but Hoover still has one more obstacle before scratching the nine-year itch. If the Bucs still have an arsenal of lateinning heroics, they should be bringing home a blue trophy. ❖
minefield was her Lady Jaguars. “All four teams (Vestavia, Oak Mountain and Tuscaloosa County in addition to Spain Park) can hit the ball and play defense,” she said. “All four deserve to be in the state tournament.” At the end, Hawkins’ team deserved it most of all. Spain Park whipped Oak Mountain 10-0 to clinch the regional championship and assure itself a state tournament bid last Friday at Bowers Park. The Jaguars were paced by eighth-grade pitching wonder Annabelle Widra, who tossed a four-hit shutout. Spain Park had a 10-0 lead by
the fifth inning, which officially ended the game because of the 10-run mercy rule. Maddie Majors had four hits with two runs and an RBI. Caroline Parker and Taylor Harrington each had three hits. Parker had two RBIs, and Harrington scored three runs. Mary Katherine Tedder and Jenna Olszewski each had two RBIs. O’Neill Roberson had a double for Oak Mountain. “We were disciplined and played the way we had to (to) come up with clutch hits in key situations,” Hawkins said. Spain Park will enter the state playoffs with a 45-7 record. ❖
Hoover Sweeps Vestavia to Reach Class 7A Finals
By Lee Davis The year 2008 was magical for Hoover baseball, as then-Bucs coach Rick Davis guided his team to its first state championship since old Berry High School turned the trick in 1981. In the decade that followed, Hoover struggled through a long period of post-season disappointment. But the proverbial worm finally turned last weekend. The Bucs swept two games from archrival Vestavia Hills to earn a place in the Class 7A finals. They will meet Auburn in Montgomery this weekend for the state title. Hoover punched its ticket to the Capital City with a 3-1 win over the Rebels that took two days to complete. After the Bucs won the first game 9-8 in nine innings on Friday, Vestavia took an early 1-0 lead in game two. The threat of severe rain led to suspension of play in the fourth inning, and the game was resumed Saturday afternoon.
Jags Win North Central Region, Bound for State Softball Tournament By Lee Davis With four quality teams in the Class 7A softball North Central Regionals, it was a shame that only two could advance to the state tournament at Montgomery’s Lagoon Park. But Spain Park coach C.J. Hawkins was happy that one of the two that survived that
Justin Chapman and Donald Wilson scored goals for ISS. Sam Simpson was named MVP. Indian Springs had 12 shots on goal as they finished the year with a 23-2-6 mark. ❖
SOCCER,
Briarwood’s Ally Sullivan hoists the blue trophy after the 6-0 victory over Saint John Paul II in the AHSAA Class 4A-5A State Championship game at John Hunt Park in Huntsville on May 12. More photos at otmjsports.com.
Journal photo by Mark Almond
Oak Mountain goalkeeper Xzavier Brown deflects a Davidson tie-breaking penalty kick attempt during the ASHAA Class 7A state championship game. More photos at otmjsports.com.
Journal photo by Mark Almond
seventh since 2005. “I guess we can now go for four in a row,” Oak Mountain coach Daniel DeMasters said. “I told Zay (Brown) to be like Superman. I knew he’d save us.” Oak Mountain outshot Davidson 13-5. The Vestavia girls lost to McGill despite getting 11 shots on goal. Yellow Jacket goalkeeper Eva Knapstein was the Lady Rebels’ greatest nemesis, earning the shutout with eight saves. Briarwood’s girls had better news, thanks to an outstanding effort by Sarah Adcock. Adcock scored all six Lady Lion goals to lead her team to victory. Four of her goals came in the second half. Adcock also scored four goals in a 6-1 victory over Faith Academy in the semi-final game. Caroline Duffey had two assists for Briarwood and Blaire Shimer added an assist. “It’s so much fun to see the girls work hard and win,” Briarwood coach Ryan Lieb said. “We weren’t that great in the first half but we kept fighting. I’m glad Sarah Adcock is on our team, too.” Lieb said he was comfortable putting all his offensive chips on Adcock. “She has been getting behind defenses all season and we’ve been getting her the ball,” he said. “You’ve got to have that person who can score. Sarah is relentless.” Briarwood’s hope for a soccer sweep fell short when the Lion boys fell to Randolph 3-2. Logan Frost and Hamilton Bowen had goals for the Lions. Grant Fielding had two saves in the losing cause. The Lions ended their season with a 17-6-3 record. Indian Springs overcame a 1-0 halftime deficit to win the Class 1A-3A title.
DAVIS, From page 32
Indian Springs boys added hardware to their trophy case by winning the Class 1A-3A title with a 2-1 victory over Susan Moore.
would flock to the new sport. Of course that never happened. Soccer was sanctioned as a spring sport in Alabama in the early 1990s so it could easily co-exist with football. In fact, if anything, soccer and football have helped each other, as many of the top football place-kickers and punters get their first training and experience on the soccer field. Some football coaches even recommend soccer as an “entry” sport for pre-school and early elementary school athletes, where they can learn a love for competition by playing a comparatively safe game with relatively simple rules. So as we move toward the 2020s, it’s obvious that football is never going to fall off of its perch as Alabama’s number one high school sport. It’s equally obvious that soccer isn’t going away either. And that’s a good thing for everybody.
Coming Attractions…
Journal photo by Mark Almond
From page 32
Thursday, May 18, 2017 • 31
SPORTS
Journal photo by Mark Almond
OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL
Vestavia Hills’ Caroline Silvio is shown in action against McGill-Toolen during the ASHAA Class 7A state championship game. More photos at otmjsports.com.
It’s a gigantic week for baseball and softball coming up as Hoover and Spain Park chase elusive state championships in two sports. The Bucs are going for their first baseball state title since 2008, and the Lady Jaguars are seeking their first softball crown in school history. For all the success coach C.J. Hawkins has achieved since coming to Spain Park from Clay-Chalkville a decade ago, the state title is the one mountain that has yet to be climbed. This could be the year. In baseball, Hoover has put together a solid season under coach Adam Moseley. With two impressive comeback wins in the semi-finals against Vestavia Hills, the Bucs finally shook off the post-season blues that had condemned them to quick exits from the playoffs in recent years. With outstanding pitching and hitting, Hoover appears to be the real deal, and a victory would be a nice cap to a strong athletic year that already includes state championships in football, girls basketball and boys and girls track. Expect the baseball team to add one more trophy to that already impressive collection. In softball, Spain Park had virtually everyone back from last season’s team and were expected to again be one of Alabama’s best. But perhaps nobody could predict the impact of eighth-grade prodigy Annabelle Widra. As a seventh-grader, Widra produced 12 victories from the pitching circle – an amazing number for a 12-year-old to achieve at the varsity level. But this season, she has been nothing short of incredible. With a 33-4 record and a 1.35 ERA, Widra may be the final piece of the puzzle needed to push a talented team to the top. All of it should be fun to watch. ❖
OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL
THURSDAY, MAY 18, 2017
SPORTS
Jags Win North Central Region, Bound for State Softball Tourney P 31 Hoover Sweeps Vestavia to Reach Class 7A Finals P 31
CHAMPIONSHIP RUNS
LEE DAVIS
Soccer Blast
Area Teams Dominate State Tourney Again
Hoover Sweeps Boys, Girls Title; Homewood Claims Girls Crown in Class 6A; Knights Win
team routed St. John Paul II 6-0 to claim the big prize. Indian Springs boys also added hardware to their trophy case by winning the Class 1A-3A title with a 2-1 victory over Susan Moore. In Oak Mountain’s Class 7A victory, the Eagles battled Davidson to a 1-1 deadlock in regulation play and two overtimes, so the decision came down to penalty kicks. Oak Mountain coach Daniel DeMasters gave sophomore goalkeeper Xzavier Brown the task of blocking the opposing offensive. The Warriors’ first kick went over the crossbar. Brown blocked the next two shots to put his team in positon to win. A successful penalty kick by Kennedy Davis gave the game – and the title – to the Eagles. Jackson Murphy scored Oak Mountain’s first goal and was named MVP. Charles Jeter and Clay Holstad were also standouts for the winners. The championship was not only the Eagles’ third in a row, but also their
It was pretty much business as usual at John Hunt Park in Huntsville last weekend. That’s because no fewer than three Over the Mountain teams claimed state soccer championships, two others earned runner-up spots, and still others capped outstanding seasons. Oak Mountain’s boys team won their third consecutive Class 7A crown with a close win over Davidson, while Briarwood’s girls brought home the Class 4A-5A title. Indian Springs gained the Class 1A-3A championship. On the downside, the Vestavia Hills girls had a phenomenal year before falling to McGill-Toolen in the Class 7A finals, and the Briarwood boys lost a close battle to Randolph in the Class 4A-5A finals. Much has been written about the reasons our area is perennially powerful in soccer, and the answers are the same ones that explain why any area is successful in any sport: strong commitment by the schools’ administration, quality coaching, parental involvement and, most important of all, skilled and dedicated athletes. All of these are essential to success. Another key to soccer’s prosperity and growth may be that it has found its niche in the pecking order of high school sports in Alabama. In retrospect, it’s hard to believe that there was a time decades ago when some of Alabama’s most respected high school football coaches believed soccer was a threat to their sport’s long-term viability. Their argument was that, once a school’s top male athletes saw how much “easier” soccer practices were than football’s regimen, then many
See SOCCER, page 31
See DAVIS, page 31
The Alabama High School Athletic Association’s state Class 7A track meet may have been conducted at Gulf Shores, but it definitely had the look of Hoover. That’s because the Bucs swept both the boys and girls championships on the weekend of May 5-6. Hoover’s boys totaled 104 points to win their sixth title in eight years, easily outpacing runner-up Auburn’s 89 score. The Lady Bucs scored 128.5 points to See TRACK, page 30
Photo special to the Journal
By Lee Davis
In Class 6A, the Homewood Patriot girls easily defeated second place Opelika to claim their fourth straight title.
Eagles Claim Third Soccer Title, Lady Rebels Lose, Lions Split, ISS Takes Crown
Journal photo by Mark Almond
By Lee Davis
Jackson Murphy (2) scored Oak Mountain’s first goal and was named MVP. More photos at otmjsports.com.
The Over the Mountain area once again showed its strength on the soccer field this past weekend as no fewer than three teams won state titles and two others were runners-up in the Alabama High School Athletic Association Championships, played at John Hunt Park in Huntsville. Oak Mountain claimed its third consecutive Class 7A crown with a pressure-packed 2-1 penalty kick victory over Davidson of Mobile. Vestavia Hills’ girls saw their hopes of a second consecutive title end with a heart-breaking 2-0 defeat at the hands of McGill-Toolen. In Class 5A-4A, Briarwood’s boys lost a one-goal decision to Randolph. Meanwhile the Lions girls
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