5.5.16 by Over the Mountain Journal

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Thursday, may 5, 2016

sports

inside

Journal photo by Emily Williams

tusk task Birmingham Zoo’s beloved African elephant, Bulwagi, is set to receive potentially life-saving surgery news page 12

Pam Arenberg, vice president of Alzheimer’s of Central Alabama first became involved with the organization when her father was diagnosed with vascular dementia several years ago. Her mother now suffers from the disease. On May 7, ACA is celebrating its 25th anniversary at the annual Garden Art Party.

Making Memories

Life lessons One mom shares insight on being a special needs parent life Page 14

A Daughter Finds Light in Darkness of Alzheimer’s Disease

By Emily Williams When Pam Arenberg was first intro-

duced to Alzheimer’s of Central Alabama, it was a somber visit to one of the organization’s family support groups. Her father had been diagnosed with vascular dementia, most likely due to a small stroke, and she found herself unpre-

pared for the rapid deterioration of his mind and body. “One of the best things about the support group is that you realize that you are not the only person going through this and that it is not so uncommon,” Arenberg said. “You also get a better idea of what’s down the road so you aren’t so shocked or alarmed.”

Flash forward to today and Arenberg is celebrating three years as the organization’s vice president of development. She still attends support groups, this time because her mother has Alzheimer’s. Though losing another parent to dementia is a tragedy, she found that the knowledge she gained through her father’s illness left See Making memories, page 15

back by popular demand Piggly Wiggly almost ready to return to Crestline Village food Page 32

In an emergency, it’s about time. GrandviewHealth.com The E.R. team will work to have you initially seen by a medical professional within 30 minutes of your arrival in the Emergency Room.

91174_GRAN_ERpldg_10_375x2_25c.indd 1

look forward 4/13/16 2:50 PM

2 • Thursday, May 5, 2016

OTM High Schools Rank on U.S. News & World Report List Several Over the Mountain schools placed on U.S. News & World Report’s rankings of Best High Schools in the country, with Mountain Brook High taking the top spot among the region’s schools. Mountain Brook ranked third in the state and 557th in the country on the 2016 listing, which took into account school’s performance on state assessments, graduation rates and preparation of students for college. Other schools that were ranked among the top tier of Alabama schools were: • Homewood High School ranked fifth in the state and 892nd on the national list. • Spain Park High School ranked eighth in the state and 978th on the national list. • Oak Mountain High School ranked 11th in the state and 1,225th on the national list. • Vestavia Hills High ranked 14th in the state and 1,429th on the national list. • Hoover High ranked 20th in the state and 1,965th on the national list. The report includes data on 19,908 public high schools in 50 states and the District of Columbia. To produce the rankings, U.S. News & World Report teamed with North Carolina-based RTI International, a global nonprofit social science research firm. The methodology for the rankings is based on the key principles that a great high school must serve all of its students well, not just those who are college bound, and that it must be able to produce measurable academic outcomes to show it is successfully educating its student body across a range of performance indicators. Detailed information about each of the schools assessed in the report is available at usnews.com/education/best-high-schools. Information about more than 350 Alabama schools can be found on the site, although only the top 29 schools were assigned rankings. ❖

in this issue About Town 3 people 8 news 12 life 14 16 Gift guide

social 20 weddings 27 schools 28 food 30 36 sports

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.

Opinion/Contents

murphy’s law

Delicious Days In Decatur

started with something like “Barbecue I’m not going to Paris this sumPlaces Across the TriState Area,” mer. The world situation being what which wasn’t that big a stretch but it is, I’m not going to visit Rome or now I think he just sits down at the Istanbul or the White Cliffs of Dover computer and types in, “Odd Places either. I’ll just have to be content to My Wife Probably Won’t Like.” Still, I read about them. try to be supportive and ride along, figI’m a sucker for travel memoirs, uring that if things go horribly wrong, imagining myself a silent companion I can always get a baked potato. How along all of those interesting roads. much could they do to that? My latest reverie is called “Delicious As expected, not all of the places Days in Paris.” The author takes the have been winners, but then again, position of a “flaneur,” a person who some of them have. I had the best takes strolling through such unfamiliar falafel I’ve ever eaten in a place I places as a serious calling. Flaneurs would have driven right past. I had a meander, they browse, they stop to vegan Cobb salad that was so good smell the roses, or in this case, the Sue Murphy that I continued the theme with a piece baguettes. Each chapter presents new of carrot cake instead of my go-to neighborhood discoveries, small Either way, get ready, chocolate. vineyard wines, rose and lavender This probably doesn’t qualify macarons. folks, Harold and I me for a Bizarre Foods of Courage I’m approaching this book as a are making the lunch badge, but for me, it was a start. It’s self-improvement manual because circuit. Maybe I’ll come not exactly a flaneur experience, I have a tendency to latch onto a either, because we have to drive handful of restaurants and visit them across a place that every place we go. Technically, we in lockstep rotation. I order the soup makes lavender could walk, but if we wanted to be and salad combo or, on days when macarons. If you find there for lunch on Tuesday, we’d I feel my calorie count can handle have to set out Monday around it, the soup and grilled cheese sandone, let me know. noon and a meal would have to be wich, neither too exciting, but reliI’ll stroll over and downright amazing to be worth all ably good. get a dozen… that. Venturing out is always a risk. I Maybe next year we’ll get to might not like the restaurant better, Paris. Or maybe the Parisians will but then again, I might. I’ll never come here. Barbecue, cheese bisknow unless I venture, so I decided cuits, fried green tomatoes – there were no chapters to launch a delicious days project of my own. I began in the “Delicious Days” book about those. Or maybe my adventure on a quest for a good fish sandwich and Harold and I need to write our own book, “Delicious I’ve found two in places I might not have thought to try. My husband, Harold, has launched a parallel search Days in Decatur, Amazing Eating in Alabaster, Cheerful for the perfect burger, and he’s had success as well. The Chowing Down in Chelsea. Caveat: Rent a Car.” Either way, get ready, folks, Harold and I are makchallenge has been to find both sandwiches at the same ing the lunch circuit. Maybe I’ll come across a place location. that makes lavender macarons. If you find one, let me Lately, I suspect that Harold is also doing a bit of know. I’ll stroll over and get a dozen…from my car, travel “jonesing” because his new online restaurant which I’ll drive to the parking lot. ❖ searches are veering off in non-burger directions. He

over the Mountain Views We asked students at Vestavia Hills Elementary West ...

“What makes your Mom special?”

OVER THE MOUNTAIN

May 5, 2016 JOU RNAL 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, June Mathews, William C. Singleton III, Emil Wald, Marvin Gentry, Lee Walls Jr., Bryan Bunch Advertising Sales: Suzanne Wald, Julie Trammell Edwards, Tommy Wald Intern: Rae Patterson Vol. 26, No. 17

Over The Mountain Journal is a suburban bi-weekly newspaper delivered to Mountain Brook, Homewood, Vestavia Hills, Hoover and North Shelby County areas. Subscriptions for The Journal are available for $24 yearly. Mail to: Over the Mountain Journal, P.O. Box 660502, Vestavia Hills, AL 35216. Phone: (205) 823-9646. E-mail the editorial department at editorial@otmj.com. E-mail our advertising department at ads@otmj.com. Find us on the Web at otmj.com. Copyright 2016 Over The Mountain Journal, Inc. All rights reserved. The Journal is not responsible for return of photos, copy and other unsolicited materials submitted. To have materials returned, please specify when submitting and provide a stamped, self-addressed envelope. All materials submitted are subject to editorial review and may be edited or declined without notification.

OVER THE MOUNTAIN Journal

“She always helps me... Unless I can do it on my own!” Sophia Green

“When she goes to work, she gets a hundred dollarswell, like, about five hundred dollars. And so I’m going back to visit Africa really, really soon.” Jaden Kowpe

“Because she let my birthday be a fashion birthday, and I’ve never had a fashion birthday before.” Jenna Bailey

“Well, my mom lets me have ice cream on weekdays. So that’s what’s special about my mom.” Tyler Sach

Thursday, May 5, 2016 • 3

About Town

OVER THE MOUNTAIN Journal

Photo special to the Journal

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Hidden in the hustle and bustle of the Hoover commercial district, Aldridge Gardens offers Over the Mountain residents a serene and convenient escape. The grounds include gardens of hydrangeas, whimsical sculptures and a waterscape. Despite the garden’s many natural and educational offerings, CEO Tynette Lynch said there are only 10 paid employees. “We have 10 employees and that is including the people who are paid to work on the grounds. But we have 200 volunteers who make things happen,” she said. In fact, the annual Aldridge Gardens plant sale is completely run by volunteers. “They handle it start to finish. They order the plants, tag them and help cart them to people’s cars,” Lynch said. Because workers donate their time, the gardens is able to keep all the proceeds to maintain the grounds and expand the programming at Aldridge. This year’s plant sale is May 6-7 with a members-only preview sale May 5. “People look forward to this every year. Things go quickly and by Saturday afternoon we are almost always sold out,” Lynch said. Organizers try to offer plants that aren’t typically found at a garden store. Lynch said people come to the Aldridge plant sale because of the wide selection

of hydrangeas, hostas, rhododendrons and roses. While the plant sale is the largest volunteer-led event of the year, most of the programming at the gardens is also run by volunteers. Aldridge Gardens is a popular field trip destination and it is volunteers who guide students through the gardens and supplement classroom curriculum. Lynch said many are retired teachers. “Many are also master gardeners. They share their knowledge but they also do things like mind the gatehouse and run the gift shop.” Registration is open for summer camps at the gardens – another way volunteers are instrumental in Aldridge’s operations. During June, children may spend the morning at the gardens learning about nature and its importance. A popular camp is the “American Girls in Aldridge Gardens,” in which children bring their dolls to explore the gardens with them. Lynch said the gardens wouldn’t be what they are without the dedication of educated and experienced volunteers. Other fundraisers for Aldridge include “Hydrangeas Under the Stars” and Art in the Gardens. Lynch said visitors have been enjoying the new azalea trail and the new bonsai display – donated and maintained by a local bonsai enthusiast. For more information about the plant sale, classes or volunteering visit aldridgegardens.com. ❖

By Sarah Kuper

SOUTHERN CHARM. MODERN VIBE.

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4 • Thursday, May 5, 2016

About Town

OVER THE MOUNTAIN Journal

Mountain Brook residents and Collat Jewish Family Services volunteers Candy and Ed Meyerson will be honored at the group’s annual Hands Up Together event May 9. Hands Up Together will feature Broadway personality and Sirius XM On Broadway host Christine Pedi. The event, chaired by Mountain Brook residents Stephen L. Royal and Marilyn Tanner, begins at 7 p.m. at the Alabama School of Fine Arts’ Dorothy Jemison Day Theater. Tickets are $100 each. For more information, visit cjfsbham.org/hands-up-together. php or call 879-3438. The Meyerson’s have volunteered with CJFS for decades, and each has served as president of the group. “There is no couple with bigger hearts than Candy and Ed,” said CJFS Executive Director Lauren Schwartz. “No job is too large or too small – they’re simply always willing to give

Photo special to the Journal

Candy and Ed Meyerson to Be Honored at CJFS Benefit

from the heart: The Meyerson’s have volunteered with Collat Jewish Family Services for decades, and each has served as president of the group.

their time and energy, their priceless advice and their financial support.” Ed Meyerson now sits on the campaign cabinet for CJFS’ first endowment appeal. The $8 million From the Heart campaign is underway in anticipation of a projected surge

in the elderly population that is the agency’s key focus. Candy Meyerson is a regular volunteer for CJFS Cares, a 16-monthold respite program serving families affected by Alzheimer’s, dementia and Parkinson’s disease. ❖

Please make sure all information is correct, including address and phone number! Please initial and fax back within 24 hours.

Welcomes

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. Dr. Ruth Penton Polson

Call for an appointment

970.7292

3145 Green Valley Road • Cahaba Heights • www.blackwelldmd.com

Pancake Breakfast, Silent Auction and Garage Sale Set Boy Scout Troop 97 is hosting its annual Pancake Breakfast, silent auction and garage sale May 7 at Trinity United Methodist Church. The event will be 7:00 a.m. to noon in the Fellowship Hall and gym at the church, at 1400 Oxmoor Road in Homewood. Garage sale offerings will include clothing, household items, crafts, toys, books, electronics, sporting and camping equipment, furniture and appliances. The all-you-can-eat breakfast includes pancakes, sausages, coffee and juice. Tickets for the breakfast are $6 in advance or $7 at the door. Bids can be placed in the silent auction through 11 a.m. The troop is seeking donated items for the garage sale and items, services

Capt. Kathy Parker, said she is looking forward to hearing Abercrombie speak. “We are very excited to have Karen Abercrombie join us to share her wisdom and inspiration,” Parker said. Many of Abercrombie’s roles have been focused on the Christian faith and spirituality. The Women’s Auxiliary is a service organization that assists the Salvation Army with its programs. The proceeds from the luncheon will specifically support the needs of hundreds of women and children served by the Salvation Army. Tickets to the auction and luncheon are $50 per person, or $400 for a table of eight. Call 328-2420 for tickets or visit salvationarmyalm.org/Birmingham.

Meet and greet: Awardwinning actress Karen Abercrombie portrays the 80-year-old prayer warrior Miss Clara in the recent film “War Room.”

—Sarah Kuper

and vacation home usage for the silent auction. Please contact Bert Allen at 540-5343 or bertjudy@hotmail.com for more information.

Money raised during the event will help underwrite scout programs such as monthly campouts and annual highadventure trips. ❖

Journal photo by Maury Wald

Dr. Haleigh Stidham Blackwell

Leaf and Petal Over The Mountain Journal, phone 205-823-9646, fax 205-824-1246 of May s your aD PrOOF from the Over The MOunTain JOurnaL for the , 2016 issue. Please fax approval or changes to 824-1246.

Award-winning actress and singersongwriter Karen Abercrombie will be the special guest speaker at this year’s Salvation Army Women’s Auxiliary silent auction and luncheon. Abercrombie portrays the 80-year-old prayer warrior Miss Clara in the recent film “War Room.” She has guest-starred on many TV shows and has a new film coming out in May called “God’s Compass.” The event is May 19 at The Club with a Purses, Etc., silent auction beginning at 9:30 a.m. and the luncheon following at 11 a.m. Guests will be able to talk with Abercrombie after the luncheon during a “meet and greet.” Associate area commander of the Salvation Army of Greater Birmingham,

Photo special to the Journal

Salvation Army Event Features Actress Karen Abercrombie

Scout’s Honor: Getting ready for Boy Scout Troop 97’s annual Pancake Breakfast this weekend are, from left, Andrew Stanley, Daniel Boackle, Cary DiNella, Thomas Sartor and Luke Sartor.

Thursday, May 5, 2016 • 5

About Town

OVER THE MOUNTAIN Journal

Meals on Wheels

PreSchool Partners Host Food Truck Event PreSchool Partners is corralling food trucks for a May 7 event. The fifth annual Protective Life Food Truck Round Up and Art Show will be from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. at The Summit in front of Carmike Cinema.

Those who attend can sample menu items from local food trucks and peruse an art show featuring local Birmingham artists. Culinary offerings will cover a wide range of cuisines and include tastsings from local food vendors and restaurants such as Big Spoon Creamery, Cantina on Wheels, Dreamcakes, Full Moon Bar-B-Que, Greg’s Hotdogs, The Heavenly Donut Company, Mellow Mushroom, Melt, Off the Hook, Slice and Snapper Grabbers. The event has been planned by PreSchool Partners’ Executive Director Lella Hamiter, Director of Development Molly Silverstein and Program Director Allyson Mouron. “We are so thankful that, year after year, the community continues

Photo special to the Journal

‘Not only do they enjoy great food and entertainment, but they are helping support both our children’s and parent’s programs.’

T h e r e ’s a w o r l d c l a s s g o l f c o u r s e h e r e , b u t t h a t ’s o n l y t h e b e g i n n i n g o f t h e s t o r y. Living here means being surrounded by nearly a thousand unspoiled acres with trails,

tasty treats: Culinary offerings will cover a wide range of cuisines and include tastings from local food vendors and restaurants such as Big Spoon Creamery, Cantina on Wheels, Dreamcakes, Full Moon Bar-B-Que, Greg’s Hotdogs, The Heavenly Donut Company, Mellow Mushroom, Melt, Off the Hook, Slice and Snapper Grabbers.

to show up to our family-friendly event,” Silverstein said. “Not only do they enjoy great food and entertainment, but they are helping support both our children’s and parent’s programs. The funds raised each year help us serve 78 children and 78 parents and prepare them to start

w e l l - s t o c k e d l a k e s , a n e q u e s t r i a n b o a r d i n g f a c i l i t y, and yes, a world class golf course.

school ahead of the game rather than behind!” Tickets are $10 in advance or $15 at the door. Children ages 3-10 enter for $5 and kids 2 and under enter for free. For more information, visit preschool-partners.org. ❖

G E T

A W A Y

E V E R Y

D A Y

LiveAtShoalCreek.com

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4/20/16 11:28 AM

6 • Thursday, May 5, 2016

About Town

Zoned for Vestavia West Elementary, Vestavia Central Elementary, Pizitz Middle School and Vestavia Hills High School.

For More Information Please Contact Diane Godber (205) 369-5583 I diane@harrisdoyle.com

Photo special to the Journal

27 Exclusive New Homes in Vestavia Hills from the $400’s

MOUNTAIN BROOK

Field of Dreams Grand Bohemian Hotel St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital will host its annual fundraiser May 7, at 6:30 p.m. The event, sponsored by Merrill Lynch, will feature a dinner, cocktails, music by Razz Ma Tazz and both a live and silent auction. Tickets are $125. The event will benefit the hospital and will recognize three patient chairs including Slade Angerson, Sophia Schefano and Cole Tanner. For more information, visit stjude.org/fieldofdreams. ❖

May 5-19 Thurs., May 5 BIRMINGHAM

www.harrisdoyle.com

Harris Doyle Over The Mountain Journal, PHONE: 205-823-9646 FAX: 205-824-1246 April

OVER THE MOUNTAIN Journal

Big Benefit Run and Ride Good People Brewing A combination cycling and running event will begin at the brewery with registration at 5:30 p.m. Admission into the run is $10 and includes one Good People beer and a entry into a drawing for various door prizes. Proceeds will benefit Big Benefit Run & Ride, an organization supporting the Birmingham cycling community. For more information, visit goodpeoplebrewing. com. BIRMINGHAM

Birmingham Art Crawl This is your AD PrOOF from the OvEr THE MOuNTAiN JOurNAl for theDowntown Birmingham The monthly walking art exhibition April 21, 2016 issue. Please fax approval or changes to 824-1246. will be held from 5-9 p.m. at various locations throughout downtown Birmingham. Venues participating in the free event include locations throughout the city’s arts and theatre districts. For more information and location maps, Thank you for your prompt attention. visit birminghamartcrawl.com.

Please make sure all information is correct, including address and phone number!

BIRMINGHAM

Crawfest Birmingham Zoo The Thomas E. Jernigan Foundation and the Coastal Conservation Association will host the 34th annual crawfish boil to support the conservation of coastal marine resources. The event will begin at 5:30 p.m. and features boiled crawfish and shrimp by Crazy Cajun’s, an open bar, music by the Billy Gant Band, a silent auction and a raffle. Tickets are $80 per person or $150 per couple. For more information, visit ccaalabama.org. BIRMINGHAM

Fiesta Ball Iron City The Young Supporters Board for the UAB Comprehensive Cancer Center will host its annual ball benefitting cancer research at UAB. The event will include

Front, from left: Sarah Kathryn Tarter, PR Chair; Molly Fielding, event chair, Emily Anderson, St. Jude parent; and Haley Mills Heard. Back: Meleesa Jack, logistic chair; Michael Schefano, event chair and St. Jude parent; Laura Anderson; Debbie Anderson; Miranda Atwood Vickers, sponsorship chair; Carmen Poole Boehme, auction chair; Ashley Carpenter Bazemore; and Kelly Carpenter Webb.

Mexican food, a silent auction and music by Livewire. Online tickets are $35 and sales will close May 4. Tickets can be purchased at the door for $40 per person. For more information, visit www3.ccc.uab.edu. HOMEWOOD

PJ’s and Pooches a.k.a. Girl Stuff Inspired by store owner Dee Tipps and her love of fostering dogs, the store will host a party and fashion show featuring sleepwear and every-day clothing beginning at 7 p.m. Throughout the weekend, the store will provide opportunities to donate to Two by Two Animal Rescue. For more information, visit the “PJ’s and Pooches” Facebook page.

Fri., May 6 BIRMINGHAM

Scholarship Run UAB National Alumni House The UAB National Alumni Society will host its annual scholarship 5K/10K run beginning at 6 p.m. Registration will open at 4 p.m. and a post-race party will follow the run featuring music by Steel City, Dreamland BBQ and more. Registration is $30 in advance or $35 on race day. For more information, visit uab.edu/alumni/5k-10k-run.

May 6-8 BIRMINGHAM

Celebrating Spring With Dance Alabama School of Fine Arts The school will host a student performance showcasing dancing styles ranging from classical ballet to contemporary choreography. The presentation will be held in the school’s Dorothy Jemison Day Theater. Showtimes are May 6-7 at 7:30 p.m. and May 8 at 2:30 p.m. For more information, visit alabamadanceexchange.org.

May 6-22 BIRMINGHAM

Sister Act RMTC Cabaret Theatre Red Mountain Theatre Company will perform the Broadway reproduction of the classic film that tells the story of wannabe diva Deloris Van Cartier whose life changes after the witness protection program places her in a convent. Tickets begin at $30. The opening performance will be held May 6 at 7:30 p.m. For more information, visit redmountaintheatre.org.

Sat., May 7 HOMEWOOD

We Love Homewood Day Homewood Central Park Homewood Parks and Recreation will host a community celebration beginning with a 5K and fun run at 7:30 a.m. From 10 a.m.-4 p.m., the park will transform into fairgrounds featuring rides, music, a silent auction and a vendor expo. We Love Homewood Day Parade begins at 6 p.m. from The Homewood Public Library to Edgewood business district street dance in Edgewood. A $15 wristband provides all-day access to attractions. For more information, visit homewoodparks.com. BIRMINGHAM

Community 5K Marconi Park Girls on the Run Birmingham will host its fifth annual 5K at 9 a.m. Proceeds support nearly 400 girls currently participating in the organization’s self-confidence program. Registration is $30 and will increase the week of the race. For more information, visit girlsontherunbham.org.

May 7-8 BIRMINGHAM

Birmingham Rose Show Birmingham Botanical Gardens The Birmingham Rose Society will

Thursday, May 5, 2016 • 7

About Town

OVER THE MOUNTAIN Journal

May 14-15 VESTAVIA HILLS

Photo special to the Journal

Vocal Competition Vestavia Country Club Opera Birmingham will host its 38th annual vocal competition beginning with competition semi-finals May 14 beginning at 10:30 a.m. at UAB’s Hulsey Hall. The final concert and dinner will be held the following evening, May 15, at 6 p.m. The concert will feature performances from the five finalists, cocktails and a seated dinner. Reservations are required by May 11 and tickets are $175. To reserve a seat, call 322-6737.

Sun., May 15

BIRMINGHAM

Do Dah Day Caldwell Park The annual dog parade will kick off May 14 at 11:01 a.m. on Highland Avenue. Guests can win prizes by entering a costume competition. Festivities will take place in both Caldwell Park and Rhodes Park and will include various children’s activities and music from local bands. Entry fees are $5 per walker and $10 per animal. Do Dah Day is an all volunteer organization. After expenses, proceeds benefit the Greater Birmingham Humane Society and the Friends of Cats and Dogs Foundation. For more information, visit dodahday.org. ❖ host its annual exhibition of roses May 7 from 6 a.m.-5 p.m. and May 8 from 1-4 p.m. The event will include seminars and a judged competition. Flowers may be entered for judging Saturday from 6-10:30 a.m. and judging will follow until 1 p.m. For more information, visit bbgardens.org.

Mon., May 9 NORTH SHELBY

Harlem Wizards Oak Mountain High School Stunt basketball performers, The Harlem Wizards, will perform an entertaining show filled with slam dunks, teacher participation and more. Doors open at 6 p.m. A portion of ticket sales will benefit the school. Admission is $12 for students and $15 for general admission. For more information, visit harlemwizards.com.

Thurs., May 12 MOUNTAIN BROOK

Smart Directions Emmet O’Neal Library The library will host a lecture on pensions and social security beginning at 6:30 p.m. in the library’s meeting room. The program will be led by Dr. Andreas Rauterkus, assistant professor of accounting finance at UAB. The meeting will include a light meal and will be recorded and available through the library website or on DVD. For more information, visit eolib.org. BIRMINGHAM

Driving After Dark Highland Park Golf Course The United Cerebral Palsy of Greater Birmingham junior board will begin its annual evening golf tournament at 3:30 p.m. After the first nine holes are played guests and players will break for a dinner including drinks and music. The last nine holes will be played in the dark with glow-in-the-dark balls and lighting. Registration for a team of four is $600. For more information, visit ucpbham. com.

HOOVER

Scholarship Luncheon Hoover Country Club The Hoover Service Club will host its annual scholarship awards presentation and luncheon with a program beginning at 11 a.m. The event will include an installation of the 2016-17 officers and the presentation of the Flora Mae Pike award. Lunch will be available after the meeting for $18. Reservations can be placed by calling Winnie Cooper at 9795699 or LaVerne Martin at 987-2739.

Sat., May 14 HOOVER

Great Strides Veterans Park The Cystic Fibrosis Foundation will host a 5K walk from 8 a.m.-noon. Walk day festivities will include children’s activities, food and more. Participants are invited to form teams and register for the walk online. Admission is free but teams are encouraged to raise funds to benefit the foundation. For more information, visit fightcf.cff.org.

HOMEWOOD

Spring Concert Samford University The Birmingham Boys choir will perform its 38th annual spring concert at 4 p.m. in the Wright Center. The theme of this year’s musical performance is “A World of Song,” featuring music from around the world. Through funding from Protective Life and the Independent Presbyterian Church Foundation, the concert will be free of charge. For more information, visit birminghamboyschoir. com.

Tues., May 17 HOMEWOOD

Read to Rover Homewood Library The Greater Birmingham Humane Society will host a reading and storytelling event featuring adoptable pets. The event will be held in the round auditorium from 3:30-4:30 p.m. For more information, visit homewoodpubliclibrary.org.

More ABout Town, page 9

BOTANICAL GARDENS 50 1963

2013

years

FLICKS AMONG THE F L WE R S May 18 • June 15 July 20

BIRMINGHAM

Mayfest Avondale Brewing Make-A-Wish Alabama will host a fundraiser from noon-5 p.m. Attendees can sample food from local food trucks and restaurants as well as Avondale beer. Activities will include music provided by local bands and corn hole games. Admission is $20 per person and kids enter for free. For more information, visit alabama.wish.org. BIRMINGHAM German Beer Fest Das Haus The FDSK German Culture Club will host its annual cultural event celebrating Germany from 3 p.m.-midnight. Festivities will include traditional German music, a May Pole dance, snacks and 40 German beers available for tasting. Admission is $1. For more information, visit the “Das HAUS” Facebook page.

BIRMINGHAM

Visit bbgardens.org/ﬂicks for this year’s movies!

Formal Garden 8 p.m. Formal Garden gates open at 6 p.m. in front in front of Conservatory of Conservatory cash bar • concessions FREE ADMISSION

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8 • Thursday, May 5, 2016

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OVER THE MOUNTAIN Journal

“Home of the Braves Turner Field”

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Artistic License

Hand madePlease contact your sales representative Mother's Day as possible to approve your ad or ad proof for May 5, 2016 OTMJ as soon in Alabama is May 8th make changes. You may fax approval or changes to 824-1246. By Lee Davis

We've got a pretty strong lineup t

Walker’s Paintings Capture Landmarks

Please make sure all information is correct, including address and phone number! You may not know Dirk Walker’s

name, but there’s a good chance you’ve seen his work. 62, is one of the top urban If we have not heard from you by 5 pm of the friday before the press date, your ad will run as Walker, is. landscape artists in the Southeast, Thank you for your prompt attention. with his artwork hanging in corporate buildings and hospitals throughout the region. His artwork depicts landmarks in Birmingham such as Sloss Furnaces, Park South Plaza • 1425 Montgomery Hwy., Suite 111 the Alabama Theatre, the Railroad Park next to Diplomat Deli in Vestavia Hills area, the city skyline and scenes from Mon.-Fri. 9:30 - 5:30 • Sat. 10-3 • (205) 822-9173 places as diverse as New York City, Moscow and Turner Field in Atlanta. In 2016, Walker was the featured artist chosen to have his paintings hanging throughout the orthopedic floor of Grandview Hospital on U.S. Take Back Your Energy Freedom 280. He is also the only Alabamian to be on a short list of artists being conWith Solar Power Solutions sidered to have their work hang in the & Superior LED Lighting and Controls new Atlanta Braves Stadium scheduled for opening in 2017. Walker is represented by galleries in Birmingham, Atlanta, Nashville and Houston. He was named the 2013 Grand Prize Winner of the Energen Corporation Art Competition and the 2014 Employee’s Choice Winner of the same art competition. Those are impressive accomplishments for someone who never dreamed of a career as a professional artist until adulthood. “I never painted as a child,” said Walker, who grew up in Vestavia Hills. “My father was a talented watercolorist and I spent a lot of time watching him. I did a little sketching in pen and ink, too.” Walker graduated from Auburn University and began a 20-year career with Central Bank of the South, but his artistic instincts never left him. A visit to the Loretta Goodwin Gallery in Birmingham ignited his Birmingham, alaBama desire to put his talents on canvas. “I realized I had a love for painting eaglesolarandlight.com • 800-820-3730 • info@eaglesolarandlight.com.

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and I wasn’t going to let it get away,” he said. Once Walker began to paint, his work began an immediate personal evolution. “In the early days, I was a traditional painter,” he recalled. “I did a lot of still lifes, landscapes and pastoral

Dirk Walker is the only Alabamian to be on a short list of artists being considered to have their work hang in the new Atlanta Braves Stadium scheduled for opening in 2017. scenes.” Soon, he expanded his work into urban landscapes, with Sloss Furnaces being his first subject. His painting style of abstract realism was inspired in part by the work of New York painter David Leffell, a pupil of the Dutch and Flemish masters such as Rembrandt. Some critics have compared his style to 1920s icon George Bellows. “The interplay of light and shadow through texture, shapes and color trans-

forms the simple objects of everyday life into rich creations,” Walker said. His goal is for the viewer to see the work and create his or her own memories. “For example, if someone sees my painting of the Alabama Theatre, I want them to see more than just the structure,” he said. “I want to inspire their own memories, such as if they watched cartoons there on Saturday as a child.” Walker said his approach to artistic work is a mixture of drawing and painting. “Drawing is linear and has to be very exact,” he explained. “Painting is more like sculpture, where the artist pulls shapes to give the work a greater sense of depth.” The nation’s economic climate led Walker to see the art world from the business side. “About 25 years ago, mergers in the banking industry eliminated my job in that field, so I directed the Loretta Goodwin Gallery,” he said. “It was beneficial to see the art business from the commercial side.” He directed the Gallery until its closure in 2014. Walker said he has no plans to retire from painting. In fact, he said he learns more every day. “Years later, the only absolute statement I profess to make regarding the language of painting is that it is a lifelong struggle but one that is well worth the journey,” he said. “It has taken me close to 30 years to realize that success as an artist doesn’t come from sales, having showings or being acknowledged for your talent. It comes from that pivotal moment when you realize the sheer joy you get from taking a painting from concept to completion. Painting has given me so much joy in my life; it’s a spiritual gift for which I’m sure I’m not worthy.” Dirk Walker may feel unworthy, but for nearly 30 years art lovers everywhere have embraced his work. ❖

OVER THE MOUNTAIN Journal

Model Behavior MBHS Student First Alabamian to Win Princeton Prize in Race Relations

Spending a week in a YWCA of Central Alabama social justice leadership camp opened Katie Klasing’s eyes to the struggles people outside her hometown of Mountain Brook can face every day. She went home determined to share that understanding with her classmates at Mountain Brook High School. Her efforts have made Klasing the first Alabama resident to be awarded a Princeton Prize in Race Relations. The high school senior is quick to give credit to Rebecca Harkless, her mentor and coordinator of the YWCA’s Anytown Alabama program. “Working with the YW has really taught me to see the world through a different point of view,” Klasing said. After a life-changing experience in the YW’s week-long camp the summer before her junior year, Klasing said she yearned for an outlet in school that helped students connect with more diverse communities in Birmingham. The school had a long-standing club known as the Heritage Panel, but it had been disbanded because of lack of involvement. With the YW’s help, Klasing restarted the program. “It took a lot of work to get teachers to sponsor it and to recruit other members,” she said. “Most of my junior year was spent on stuff like that, so there wasn’t a whole lot of time to plan activities.” Come senior year, the club was in full force and participated in its first student exchange program with Wenonah High School. Members of

about town, From page 7 HOOVER

Historical Society Meeting Hoover Library The Hoover Historical Society will host a meeting at 1 p.m., beginning with refreshments. The program will feature guest speaker Jason Kirby, an archivist at the Archives and Rare Book Room at the Botanical Gardens. He will speak on flora of the Civil War and how herbs, teas and vinegars were used for health. For more information, visit hooverhistoricalsociety.org.

Thurs., May 19 BIRMINGHAM

Flicks Among the Flowers Birmingham Botanical Gardens The Gardens will host its annual summer movie series, beginning with a showing of “Back to the Future.” The gates will open at 6 p.m. and the movie begins at 8 p.m. in the formal garden in front of the conservatory. Refreshments will be sold at The Gardens Cafe. For more information, visit bbgardens.org.

Photo special to the Journal

By Emily Williams

Katie Klasing is the first Alabama resident to be awarded a Princeton Prize in Race Relations.

the club spent a regular day in the life of Wenonah students. “We all learned a lot, but I’d say one of the main things we realized is that we all struggle with the same things,” she said. “We deal with the same issues like bullying, self-confidence, schoolwork and everything, just in different ways.” Through the experience, Klasing said she feels confident in saying that the exchange has had a profound impact on her peers. “I just want everyone to realize that, yeah, we are different, but we can all find common ground and learn to be a little more accepting of everyone around us,” she said. One way she’s shared her experiences and insights with others outside of Alabama is through a trip to Princeton University this past weekend, where she accepted a $1,000 award and participated in a

Save The date Sat., May 21 BIRMINGHAM

Zoo Run Birmingham Zoo The Zoo will host its annual 5K run from 7:30-10:30 a.m. benefiting the zoo’s Marine Mammal Center. The starting line will be located in the parking lot and the finish line will be in the Trails of Africa. A selection of kids races will be held in the children’s zoo. Registration is $30 for adults and $12 for children. For more information, visit birminghamzoo.com.

Mon., May 23 HOOVER

Charity Golf Tournament Hoover Country Club The Christian Deaf Fellowship will host its first tournament benefitting Camp Shocco for the Deaf. Four-person teams must register by

Thursday, May 5, 2016 • 9

people/about town symposium. The panel discussion she served on focused on promoting race relations in communities that are predominantly white. “I’m really excited about the subject because Mountain Brook High School is 97 percent white,” she said before leaving on the trip. On a day-to-day basis, Klasing said she pays attention when she’s walking through the halls and does her best to approach students who make comments that are offensive. “You’ll hear little things that may not seem hurtful when you’re at school, but to someone else they can be hurtful and racist,” she said. “I try to do my best to speak up and let them know that, from another person’s perspective, their comments could be offensive.” As the first Princeton Prize winner from Alabama, Klasing is ready to accept her position as a role model for peers and younger students. She’s well-equipped to handle the spotlight thanks to her extra-curricular career as a model. “Everyone always told me I should either play basketball or model. I tried basketball and that didn’t work out at all, it was awful. So I tried modeling,” she said. Standing at a solid 5 feet 11 inches, she was well equipped for the job and said that the opportunity to meet other models from all walks of life has been a bonus. When she attends Oglethorpe University in the fall, Klasing is looking forward to being closer to her modeling agency. She is also looking forward to finding the right major that will complement her passion for equality, something along the lines of psychology. “Advocating for equality is something I’ll keep doing for the rest of my life,” she said. “I want people to realize that we should celebrate our differences because those are the things that really make each of us unique.” ❖ May 13. The tournament will begin at 9 a.m. and a BBQ lunch and awards ceremony will follow. The event will include cash prizes for winners as well as door prizes. Registration is $125 per golfer. For more information, visit deafonline-university.com.

May 27-28 HOMEWOOD

HHS Class Reunion Various Locations The Homewood High School Class of 1976 will host its 40th reunion Memorial Weekend. Festivities will begin with an ice breaker at PT’s in Homewood’s SoHo Square at 6 p.m. Reunion day activities will begin with a 10 a.m. tour of the high school and will conclude with a reunion celebration from 6-11 p.m. at the Tutwiler Hotel. The party will include a buffet dinner, beer, wine and a cash bar. To register, visit the “Homewood High School Class of 1976” page at eventbrite.com. ❖

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10 • Thursday, May 5, 2016

people

OVER THE MOUNTAIN Journal

A California Dream

John Carroll Athletic Director Inducted into AHSAA Hall of Fame

Central Alabama Theater Founder Wants to Inspire Young Actors The man behind Central Alabama Theater is hoping to use his experiences and connections in “the biz” to inspire the arts community in Birmingham and its youth. Growing up in Gardendale, Carl Peoples never saw an acting career as a viable option for his life. He spent time singing with the youth choir at his Southern Baptist church but, living spitting distance from both sets of grandparents on their own Walton’s Mountain, he never imagined a career in entertainment. “That’s really the problem with the arts in this state, because while we support the education side of it, we don’t support it as a vocation that pays the bills,” Peoples said. Putting his theatrical passions aside, he pursued a degree in psychology at the University of Alabama for a year, ultimately deciding to transfer to UAB to seek a degree in theater. From there, Peoples booked his first job with the Crystal Pistol show at Six Flags Over Georgia and remained there for four seasons before making his way throughout the Southeast until he landed in New York City. “If you’re going to be a success in the entertainment world, and it doesn’t matter what aspect, you’ve got to go where the work is,” Peoples said. He remained in New York for a time, until California called his name. Peoples made his cross-country move very much on a whim just days after returning from a ninemonth European tour of “Jesus Christ Superstar.” As he stared out of his apartment window at the cold, gray skies of a New York winter, a friend offered him the chance to housesit in a sunny and 76 degree California city, where he would remain for 15 years. After six days in LA, he booked a part in a Billy Crystal movie and obtained a recurring role on “The Young and the Restless,” which he said was worth its weight in gold. “Once you’re on TV the door is open,” he said. With his success in television, he took some time on the side to direct and cast shows for local theaters.

Journal photo by Emily Williams

By Emily Williams

Growing up in Gardendale, Carl Peoples never imagined he would one day celebrate a successful career in the television industry and welcome a new role as executive producer of his own theater.

But that endeavor came to a grinding halt because his work producing and directing in television took up too much of his time while giving him only limited joy. “To me, I’m not dogging the tele-

‘We’re giving them not just the experience of being on the stage in, say, ‘Aladdin Jr.,’ which certainly has its place, but we are giving them tools for success in the business and exposing them to the amount of hard work it takes.’

vision business, but their idea of art was faster and cheaper,” he said. “It wasn’t for the sake of telling a story. I’m a storyteller and that’s why I love

the theater.” So when his parents told him they were planning to sell his grandparent’s house on the family land, Peoples found himself imagining a life in his hometown and spotted a chance to tackle his longtime dream of running his own theater company. “All I could think about was that house and how I wanted to fix the house up and how I wanted to slow down,” he said. He took a leap and today he serves as artistic director and executive producer for the Central Alabama Theater, with help from his co-executive Butch Noland, a fellow veteran of the Crystal Pistol show. Peoples hopes to teach the community that there are viable careers to be found in the theater through performances and a new summer camp for kids. “I never really thought that I would love kids in theater as much as I do,” he said, recounting that his passion sprang from directing a Christmas

show at LegoLand. “James Hatcher had this philosophy of taking kids and educating them at a younger level, even if they don’t want to be in the theater as a vocation,” he said. “You are educating them at the very base as an educated audience member.” Hatcher, the late local legend behind Town and Gown was People’s first mentor. For those students who are bitten by the bug, the two-week day camp will offer a daily rotation of an acting class taught by Peoples, a music and vocal class taught by Carolyn Viola, who is musical director of UAB’s Department of Theater, and a dance class taught by Lani Dill. Each day also will include a master class that will focus on a different subject, for example a creative writing class, a break dance class or a dialect course. Everything is coordinated to give the students well-rounded insight into what it takes to make it in the theater business. “We’re giving them not just the experience of being on the stage in, say, ‘Aladdin Jr.,’ which certainly has its place, but we are giving them tools for success in the business and exposing them to the amount of hard work it takes,” he said. The inaugural CAT Academy will mark a venue change for the company’s performances. After celebrating a year of the theater’s monthly cabaret series with a birthday event May 14 at the Clubhouse on Highland, Peoples and his crew will say goodbye to that venue and move their series to Mountain Brook’s Steeple Arts Dance Studio. Peoples said it’s a bittersweet change because of support the venture has recieved from the clubhouse’s owner, Bob McKenna. But with the venue’s popularity as a wedding and event space, the move will be beneficial for both parties, he said. Peoples said Steeple Arts is a “great location with people who appreciate the arts and will support it.” “If we can start doing things here, I think we’re on to something,” he said. For more information on CAT, visit centralalabamatheater.org. ❖

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Coach Frances Crapet of John Carroll Catholic High School was inducted into the AHSAA Hall of Fame on March 21 at the Renaissance Hotel Convention Center in Montgomery. Crapet, who is a Eucharistic minister at Our Frances Crapet Lady of the

Lake Church, graduated from Ensley High School in 1976 and the University of Montevallo in 1980. The Birmingham native began her teaching and softball and volleyball coaching career at W. A. Berry High School in 1984 before moving to John Carroll in 1986. In 2014, she accepted the position as athletic director for the school, where she has since remained. Crapet compiled a 635-415 volleyball coaching record with state championships in 1996 and 1997 and state runner-up finishes in 1998 and 1999. Her softball teams were 294-208 from 1987 to 2004 with three trips to the state tournament. According to administrator Sherry Rowe, Crapet has escalated the level of play in women’s sports at JCCHS as well as building a fan base and community consisting of players, students, former players, parents, boosters and many alumni of the high school.

Hoover Resident Wins Writing Awards Nancy Dorman-Hickson, a Hoover resident, won multiple writing awards in the 2016 Alabama Media Professionals’ communications contest. Her writing placed first in five categories and took second place and honorable mention in others. DormanHickson won top honors in the general magazine category and personality profile, as well as winning honors for stories that covered Nancy Dormansocial issues, Hickson education, agri-business and food. Along with local writers Jennifer Walker Journey and Jane Ehrhardt, Dorman-Hickson placed first and second for two issues of a magazine produced for the University of Alabama at Birmingham’s School of Public Health. After spending almost 20 years with Southern Living and Progressive Farmer magazines, Dorman-Hickson now freelances as a writer, editor and speaker. She is co-author of Joanne King Herring’s bestselling memoir, “Diplomacy and Diamonds: My Wars from the Ballroom to the Battlefield, The Real-Life Texas Socialite Behind Charlie Wilson’s War.”

Thursday, May 5, 2016 • 11

people

OVER THE MOUNTAIN Journal

earth,” said troop leader Beth Martin. “Their accomplishment shows that a small group can create great change.”

Photo special to the Journal

Spain Park Student Joins U.S. Senate Page Program

Front, from left: Jaleel Townsend, Cassy Satchwell, Maura Martin, Ashna Berawala, Mary Kate Sanders and Jordyn Frank. Back: Laura Jane Johnson, Amelia Goeman, Rezi Ubogu, Doireann McDonald and Brooke Johnson. Not pictured: Caroline Rohn.

Girl Scout Troop 150 Members Receive Bronze Award Fifth-grade Junior Girl Scouts from Troop 150 recently earned their Bronze Award by creating and implementing the Prince of Peace School’s first schoolwide recycling program. As a result, the school is now recycling four cubic yards of materials every other week that previously had gone into the school’s trash. Troop members include fifth-grade girls from Prince of Peace Catholic School, Brock’s Gap and the Altamont School. The members began researching and planning the project in October and by late February it was in place. They began by monitoring the quantity and types of recyclables thrown out from the school’s classrooms, offices, art room and kitchen. Armed with the data, they met

with representatives from Waste Management to learn what recycling options were available to them, including frequency, type and quantity of materials. The scouts prepared a proposal that was presented to POP Principal Connie Angstadt and, once approved, went to POP’s Father John Fallon and the Parish Council for a vote. Once the project received the green light, the scouts ordered and distributed recycling bins and created signs and a video to educate students, faculty and staff about what types of items could be placed in the recycling bins. Educational materials also were prepared by the scouts for Brock’s Gap and the Altamont School, since those schools’ recycling programs were already in place. “I am so proud that this group of six girls from the 5th grade was able to inspire our school community to answer the call Pope Francis made in his encyclical ‘Laudato Si: On Care for our Common Home,’ to be stewards of the

U.S. Sen. Jeff Sessions, R-Ala., has appointed Grace Friedman, a junior at Spain Park High School, to the U.S. Senate Page Program in Washington, D.C., this summer. According to school officials, the program is highly selective, with only 30

students in the country chosen to serve as pages. The page program dates back to the 1800s, when Sen. Daniel Webster appointed a 9-year-old to be his senatorial assistant. While working on Capitol Hill, Grace will serve multiple senators. She will prepare the Senate chamber for sessions, deliver bills and amendments to the floor and deliver messages and legislative material within the congressional complex. In addition to her studies, Friedman

is a member of Spain Park’s Law Academy, a four-year elective program that fosters legal career-focused learning and includes participation in mock trial and moot court competitions. ❖

Grace Friedman

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News

12 • Thursday, May 5, 2016

OVER THE MOUNTAIN Journal

Berry May Become Rebel Territory Some Buccaneers Dread Turning Their Alma Mater Over to Rivals

helped to rile up the football players,” Wood said. Currently, the Berry buildings are home to the Crossroads School – an alternative school for Hoover students. According to a statement by Vestavia Hills Superintendent Sheila Phillips, the Vestavia Board of Education has been looking at acquiring the property for some time. “Vestavia Hills is growing, thanks in large part to the tireless work of our city leaders and their commitment to our schools,” she said in the statement, “The growth has led to a record number of students, and we expect enrollment to continue climbing.” Phillips said the school system surveyed parents and held public forums to assist administrators in making the decision to buy Berry. Wood said he understands the need for Vestavia Hills to expand educational offerings for its growing population, he just wishes it didn’t mean Berry will no longer be a part of Hoover. “You just don’t want to relinquish it. Many people are very disappointed that Hoover is selling it, but we are

Surgery Set for African Elephant at the Zoo

By Virginia Martin

Bulwagi, one of the Birmingham Zoo’s African elephants, is being prepared for surgery later this month to remove an infected tusk. The elephant has had a crack in that tusk for years. Vets at the zoo several months ago worked with experts at the University of Alabama at Birmingham to apply a composite material they hoped would stop the crack from spreading, said Kiki Nolen-Schmidt, marketing coordinator for the zoo.

coming to grips with it.” Wood also taught history and geography, and he said his background in those fields has helped him find some

‘If Vestavia Hills acquires the Berry campus, we will treat the facility, its historic mural and the Finley name on its stadium with the honor and respect they deserve.’ Vestavia Hills Superintendent Sheila Phillips

consolation. “If you go back and look at the early history of Berry, you see that it drew students from all over, including from Vestavia Hills,” he said, “it helps knowing there is an original Vestavia connection.” Wood said he and others connected with Berry are pleased that the build-

But the tusk became infected, and attempts to treat the infection with antibiotics failed. Left untreated, the infection could spread to other organs, including the heart, and eventually could be fatal. In preparation for surgery, Bulwagi is being trained to lay on his right side after his left tusk is removed as well as being exposed to the noises, people and equipment he will encounter during and after the operation, Nolen-Schmidt said. Veterinarians are trying to make the multihour surgery less stressful for Bulwagi, she said. The procedure is a serious one, and the zoo is bringing in experts from the Colyer Institute and extra veterinary assistance from across the country to help. Bulwagi came to the zoo in 2011 and is a centerpiece of the Trails of Africa exhibit, which is one of the zoo’s most popular attractions. The 35-year-old elephant has lived most of his life with only one tusk, having lost the first one in an accident during his youth. He is the dominant male in the zoo’s all-male

ings are still being used for educational purposes and that it appears the Vestavia Hills school system plans to continue to use them for education. “We are glad they haven’t been bulldozed and from the superintendent’s statement it doesn’t appear they plan to tear them down. Still, it isn’t a done deal yet; you never know.” Phillips said she and the school board plan to be sensitive to the legacy of Berry High. “If Vestavia Hills acquires the Berry campus, we will treat the facility, its historic mural and the Finley name on its stadium with the honor and respect they deserve.” While Wood said he was reassured by Phillips’ statement, he still worries new ownership won’t take the same pride in the school’s history. His desire is to see the mural carefully cleaned and the grounds restored to their former glory. He said he hopes new owners will try to understand the significance of the buildings before making changes. Wood admits he is holding out hope that the sale won’t go through,

Former Berry High School teacher Wayne Wood with the book he wrote on the school’s legendary coach, “Bob Finley: A Class Act - The Life and Influence of A Great Coach and Teacher.” Wood said he and others connected with Berry are pleased that the buildings are still being used for educational purposes and that it appears the Vestavia Hills school system plans to continue to use them for education.

but ultimately, he is happy the property will still serve the needs of young people in the community, even if that means they are Vestavia Hills Rebels rather than Hoover Buccaneers. In her statement, Phillips said it is not yet decided which student population the Berry campus might serve, although the board is looking at ways to reconfigure the middle school model into a junior high model. Phillips emphasized that the sale is not closed yet, and she encouraged residents and stakeholders to contact her with questions or comments through the Vestavia Hills school system website, vestavia.k12.al.us/ superintendent. ❖

herd, and vets do not expect the surgery to affect his social standing. Nolen-Schmidt said he is the oldest of the elephants and by far the largest. The Birmingham Zoo was the first accredited zoo in North America to successfully foster an

Bulwagi is the dominant male in the zoo’s all-male herd, and vets do not expect the surgery to affect his social standing.

Photo special to the Journal

High school rivalries are no trivial matter, especially when it comes to Over the Mountain school districts. For some OTM residents, no rivalry is more dynamic than Hoover vs. Vestavia Hills. That’s why some Hoover school system graduates are struggling with the recent announcement that the Vestavia Hills school system plans to buy the former W.A. Berry High School campus on Columbiana road for $11 million. Before Hoover High School opened in 1994, Berry was the main campus for area high schoolers. With its large, one-of-a-kind tile mural and the football stadium named for the iconic coach Bob Finley, Berry is steeped in tradition. If the sale goes forward, proud graduates will see their alma mater taken over by their biggest rival. Wayne Wood served as an athletic coach for many years in the school system and has many special memories of the time he spent at Berry. “Berry High School has a unique flavor to it. If you spend time here, you will notice it is very serene – like its own little cove of Hoover.” The Berry school building was first opened in 1959 as an elementary school, but as the area’s population grew, it became a high school. The first senior class graduated in 1965. While the city of Hoover grew, Vestavia Hills also was expanding its boundaries closer and closer to Berry – only intensifying the rivalry. “The school is surrounded by Vestavia property, which always

Journal photos by Sarah Kuper

By Sarah Kuper

all-male herd of African elephants, putting it at the forefront of elephant management in this country, Nolen-Schmidt said. The zoo takes part in breeding programs as well as ongoing research into African elephants, which can live to be 70 years old. The date of Bulwagi’s surgery is not being publicly announced. ❖

video presentation featuring words from Lewis, Crestline faculty members and family friend Lynn Ortis. Lewis has been battling malignant esophageal cancer since 2013, yet nearly each speech given spoke of his strength, his devotion to his faith and his ever-present smile. “Even though he is battling cancer, he goes out of his way to help us,” student Henry Stalka said. “I would bet only a few men in the world would do that.” A representative of Cintas gave the announcement that, with 25 percent of more than a half million votes, Lewis won Janitor of the Year. He then pre-

Crestline Elementary Principal Laurie King accepts the Janitor of the Year award on behalf of custodial staff member Jerome Lewis who won first place in the nationwide competition. The news was presented as the finale of a half-hour program that began and ended with performances by second- and third-graders, below, of an original song, “Jerome is the Man!”

Journal photos by Emily Williams

Thursday, May 5, 2016 • 13

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OVER THE MOUNTAIN Journal

sented the award as well as a $5,000 check to Lewis and a $5,000 check to Crestline Elementary. Crestline uses janitorial supplies from Cintas, which sponsored the contest. King accepted the awards and told students she will show Lewis a video of the ceremony when she presents the award to him. “Mr. Jerome told me that I could speak on his behalf since he isn’t able to be here,” King said. “What he wanted me to say was that he is blessed and grateful. … He said to stay positive and smile big and we’re all going to keep smiling so that he will feel the love.” ❖

‘Jerome is the Man’ Crestline Custodian Named Janitor of the Year

By Emily Williams The student body of Crestline Elementary school gathered May 2 to hear the news that custodial staff member Jerome Lewis had won first place in the nationwide Janitor of the Year competition. The news was presented as the finale of a half-hour program that began and ended with performances by second- and third-graders of an original song, “Jerome is the Man!” “We are so happy because we are celebrating a man that we all love so much,” Crestline Principal Laurie King told students, faculty and community members who attended the ceremony. “Unfortunately, Mr. Jerome could not be here today, but he is here in spirit and he told me to tell you up front, ‘Thank you, kid.’” King then welcomed Lilly Wright, student council president, to kick off a presentation of gifts for Lewis created by each grade. “From all his actions, I know he is not only a role model for me, but all

of Crestline’s students,” she said. Gifts included books, CDs and other projects inspired by students’ appreciation for Lewis. An acrostic poem, crafted by the Spanish class in Spanish, described Lewis as joyous, exemplary, responsible, obedient, magnificent and

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enviable. The special education class created a T-shirt using their thumbprints to form a tree, symbolizing the lasting impression Lewis has had on their lives. The art class presented a large mosaic tree to represent Lewis’ strength and ability to protect them. Few eyes remained dry during a

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Mother's Day is May 8th!

life

14 • Thursday, May 5, 2016

OVER THE MOUNTAIN Journal

There is a Woman in Everyone’s Life Motherwalk 5K Spotlights Ovarian Cancer Awareness

aking a difference for mothers, daughters, sisters and friends.” That’s the mission of the Norma Livingston Ovarian Cancer Foundation. Started by Lori Livingston after watching her mother succumb to ovarian cancer, the foundation has raised money for research through events such as Motherwalk and Ovarian Cycle. Although ovarian and other gynecologic cancers present only in women, the disease can affect men emotionally as well. One man affected by ovarian cancer is Todd Miner. Todd’s wife, Stacy, lost her sister Brittany Waldrep to ovarian cancer nearly 10 years ago. Waldrep was 24 HOMEWOOD

Motherwalk Homewood Central Park The Norma Livingston Ovarian Cancer Foundation will host its annual 5K walk and one mile fun run May 11 beginning with registration at 6:30 a.m. The 8 a.m. 5K will begin after a moment of silence, dove release and warm up. Registration for either race is $35. Funds raised benefit the foundation’s mission to promote awareness and fund research for ovarian cancer. For more information, visit motherwalk.com.

years old and already stage IV when she was diagnosed. “I’ve got a wife, I’ve got a mother. The thing about the disease is that it is silent until it is too late,” Todd Miner said. Both of the Miners have served on the board of the foundation and together with Stacy Miner’s family started the foundation’s car tag initiative. The teal Drive Out Ovarian Cancer tags are available for $50 through the Alabama Department of Motor Vehicles. Proceeds from the tag – nearly $80,000 last year – go to UAB Hospital for ovarian cancer research. With Mother’s Day around the corner, foundation members are getting ready for Motherwalk – a 5K walk and fun run at Homewood Park May 14. Board member Robin Bloomston said being involved in Motherwalk has opened her eyes to the urgency of finding a cure. “I haven’t experienced ovarian cancer but when I see someone participating in the walk one year and then the next year someone is participating in memory of them, it is heartbreaking.” Bloomston and foundation founder Lori Livingston are close friends who have daughters the same age. “I would hate to see anyone going through it, much less our daughters. Right now, there is no good screening test to catch it early. We want to

Todd Miner with his sons Graham and Britton at the 2014 Motherwalk. Todd’s wife, Stacy, lost her sister Brittany Waldrep (her photo hangs behind the boys) to ovarian cancer nearly 10 years ago. The Miner family started the Norma Livingston Ovarian Cancer Foundation’s car tag initiative.

Photo special to the Journal

By Sarah Kuper

work for that,” she said. Motherwalk began more than 10 years ago as a small group walking in Crestline. Now the event has moved to Homewood Park and last year almost 700 people participated. Bloomston said one of her favorite parts of volunteering on race day is the people who wander by and ask for information.

Meredith Hornsby lives in Hoover with her husband, Jonathan, and their three children. She’s been an elementary school teacher for eleven years.

“People may be driving or walking past and they stop to talk to us to learn more. Sometimes they give an on-the-spot donation, too,” Bloomston said. “It restores your faith a little bit.” For the Miner’s, involvement with the foundation is in honor of Waldrep, but it also is a chance to change the future for ovarian cancer

By Meredith Hornsby Being a special needs parent is a journey no one ever expects to take. It can be overwhelming, confusing, frustrating – and wonderful. My daughter, Caroline, has cerebral palsy, and I’ve learned so many things since we began this adventure when she was born 4½ years ago.

Photo special to the Journal

Life Isn’t Over

Life Lessons

One Mom Shares Insight on Being a Special Needs Parent

When a child first receives a difficult diagnosis, it’s easy to succumb to the mindset that your life is over. To be honest, “life as you know it” does cease to exist. Things really won’t ever be the same. The dreams I had for my daughter definitely changed. I was no longer concerned with whether she’d be a dancer like her big sister, or whether she’d prefer team sports like her big brother. After her CP diagnosis, my goals were things we usually take for granted: I wanted only for Caroline to one day walk and talk. But I never stopped having dreams for her; those dreams just changed. Life may be different than I’d imagined, but it’s not some horrible thing, and it’s certainly far from over. Be Proactive

Parents of special needs children have gotten a bad rap over the years, known for fighting the school systems or lobbying for equality in some

patients “It’s to support the families going through it and to educate others about the disease and how to cope,” Todd Miner said. “The problem is the symptoms are common ailments. It’s horrifying what women have to go through and it’s often too late when they figure it out,” Bloomston said, “And we all have women in our lives we want to protect from that.” The foundation not only organizes fundraisers, but also sponsors support groups for women with the disease and even for women who have tested positive for the BRCA gene – the gene mutation that increases the risk of breast and gynecologic cancers. Organizers said that, although ovarian cancer is a frightening and devastating diagnosis, they are working to make sure Motherwalk is an upbeat and celebratory event. The UAB mascot Blaze and the Birmingham Baron’s mascot Babe Ruff will attend the event, and food from local vendors will be available throughout the morning. To date, the foundation has raised almost $1 million dollars, with the money going to local initiatives such as the UAB Department of Gynecology Oncology. To register, visit motherwalk.com and to learn more about the foundation and ovarian cancer visit nlovca. org. ❖

form for their child. I used to think, “Why is it such a big deal? Why does this even matter?” What many people don’t understand is that we are our child’s advocate, and often we are their only advocate. It’s our job to question doctors and therapists, to learn the new languages and many, many acronyms of the world we live in, for the benefit of our child. We’ve all heard the phrase, “No one knows your child better than you do,” and that’s even more true in the case of a child with differing needs. We’re the ones who are there on a daily basis; we see what they can do and the areas in which they need further support. I had to move out of my comfort zone of just saying, “OK, that’s fine,” when a doctor or therapist told me something and start questioning the decisions being made by those who cared for my daughter. In my case, Caroline can’t speak for herself to say what hurts and what she needs, so it’s up to me to be that voice on her behalf. I quickly learned that there’s not a thing in the world wrong with that. Patience is a Virtue

Patience is a virtue, and nowhere is this more true than when parenting a child with special needs. I can’t begin to count the hours of simply waiting that I’ve had to do in the past four years – waiting in doctors’ offices, waiting on hold See life lessons, facing page

I finally have it all together has helped me keep my sanity, or most of it, anyway.

life lessons, From page 14

talking to the insurance company, waiting for someone to call me back to answer a question I may have. I’ve also had to be patient with my child, because she does things at a different pace than her typical peers. She has always been developmentally delayed, so I constantly felt like I was waiting for the “next big step.” Over time, I’ve learned that even the small things, the “inchstones” she accomplishes rather than milestones, are just as important and should be celebrated with as much gusto. In the same realm as patience, flexibility has become an important factor in my day-to-day life. Nothing, nothing as a special needs parent ever goes the way you plan. I can make list after list and plan for Scenarios A through Z, and Caroline will still find a way to make me change everything I thought I had prepared! Being flexible and understanding that everything will most certainly change just as I think

making memories, From page 1

her stronger for her mother. “It was much harder with my dad because I was so unprepared,” she said. “To watch him lose his abilities so rapidly was a real shock.” Both dementia and Alzheimer’s most notably strip the patient of their memories, but what Arenberg said she wasn’t prepared for was her parents’ complete loss of independence or

‘There is no way for me to make her remember that she asked me that same questions three times, because the knowledge simply isn’t there for her.’ self-sufficiency. “Patients need care constantly,” she said. “A person with Alzheimer’s or dementia can’t be left alone because they can’t care for themselves. They don’t know whether they should sleep or shouldn’t sleep, whether they should eat or whether they shouldn’t or whether they should drink or shouldn’t.” Arenberg said that one of her most enlightening realizations, found through the support group, was that even though she feels frustrated at times, she can’t place the blame on her mother. “There is no way for me to make her remember that she asked me that same question three times, because the knowledge simply isn’t there for her,” Arenberg said. She has had to come to terms with knowing that certain family memories will be lost with the disease. When her mother first received her diagnosis, she gave Arenberg a large box of family photographs. “I wanted her to go through the pictures and mark down who was in the photos or where they were taken, but she just never got around to it,” she said. Arenberg later realized that part of the reason her mother couldn’t

Thursday, May 5, 2016 • 15

life

OVER THE MOUNTAIN Journal

“Bless Their Hearts” and Move On

Even in a seemingly progressive 2016, people can be thoughtless, making comments or asking rude questions about Caroline when we’re out in public. I’ve gotten a Forrest-Gump style, “So is she stupid or something?” more than once. Last year at my son’s baseball game, Caroline was crying and upset; since she doesn’t talk, crying is a way for her to communicate. Another mom said, “If she’s going to act like that, you really shouldn’t bring her here. She’s bothering everyone.” I learned early on that some people are not at all understanding, and others are just plain rude. I love when someone asks me an appropriate question about my daughter’s disability, because it gives me the opportunity to talk about it and hopefully educate someone else. Education brings awareness and acceptance, so talking about her diagnosis, abilities and needs is important to me.

finish the project was due to the early symptoms of the disease. “I had to come to terms with the fact that some of those memories are just gone. She was the person to carry on those memories, but they simply aren’t there anymore,” she said. Though the notion seems and is tragic, Arenberg is still able to find the humor, holding fast to the idea that laughter is the best medicine. Though there is an ever-present realization that she is more of a parent to the mother who took care of her for so long, their relationship is still strong. “She doesn’t remember why she doesn’t like me,” Arenberg said with a large smile. “The differences that we used to have or the arguments we got into have disappeared.” ACA stresses that Alzheimer’s and dementia are “family diseases” that affect every member, and though her two sons live out of state, Arenberg’s family is no different. Her son who resides a bit closer to home has the opportunity to visit fairly often and stays heavily involved in his grandmother’s life. “One of the great things is that even if he’s only home for four days, he goes to visit my mother every single one of those days,” she said. “I think that’s probably because he is connected to the fact that his time with her is limited.” As of now, Arenberg said, her

When someone asks, “Why does she use a walker?” or “Do you think she will eventually be able to talk?” I’m more than happy to discuss her CP. More often than not, the questions people ask are genuine and well-meaning. I can’t try to correct everyone who says something disrespectful or always take the time to explain to an inconsiderate person that Caroline has different needs and can’t help some of her responses to stimuli or situations. Instead, I just smile and think the Southern standard “Bless their heart” phrase, and move on. You Just Have to Laugh

When parenting a child with special needs, most days you will encounter a “laugh or cry moment.” One afternoon a year or so ago, Caroline was sitting on the floor and discovered an unidentifiable object under the couch. She picked it up and immediately fed it to the dog! To this day, I still have no idea what it was she fed poor Barkley, but she picked it up using a pincher grasp! Her occupational therapists had been working on that for months, and she did it! Last week, Caroline got angry because

mother struggles with her family’s names. “Even if she may not know my name, there is still that recognition when they look at you that says, ‘This is my person,’” she said. “One day that won’t be the case, so we have to take advantage of what is there right now.” Another silver lining for Arenberg is the sense of community she has found in joining the ACA and the opportunities she has been given to change other Alzheimer’s families’ lives. “I’m lucky in that I did not ever have to care for someone 24/7,” she said. “When my father was diagnosed, my mother was still well and was able to act as his caregiver.” And when her mother became unable to care for herself, the family had the means to provide her a residence at an assisted-living facility. “It is important for me to give back to this organization because I realize how lucky I am in that both of my parents have had care. I can’t imagine what a struggle it is for people who don’t have that help,” she said. In addition to providing lifesaver bracelets to protect patients who are prone to wander and scholarships for everyday supplies such as diapers and wipes, Arenberg said one of her favorite aspects of ACA is the adult day care scholarship. Regular men-

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someone changed the TV channel off of Mickey Mouse, so she threw her sippy cup across the room. I thought, “Well, at least she recognized that Mickey wasn’t on anymore, she was trying to make her feelings known – and her arm muscles sure are strong!” She bumps into things, falls down, has what we have dubbed “diva moments” when she will lie down wherever she is (home, outside, church, school, anywhere) and refuse to move. She just lies there! I don’t try to make her get up or even say anything to her anymore. Instead, I pull out my phone and take a picture to put on her Instagram page that details life with cerebral palsy. When it comes to situations like that, I figure I could either be upset and cry or just roll with it and laugh. My best advice to parents of special needs children, or any child, for that matter, is to always choose to laugh. Meredith Hornsby, volunteers with and uses programs offered through United Cerebral Palsy of Greater Birmingham.

tal stimulation slows the process of mental deterioration in patients, and adult day care provides that constant interaction through physical activity, artistic outlets and socialization. “That is something that is lifechanging for a patient and for their family,” she said. “It’s great for the patient because they get that stimulation and interaction, but it’s also great for the caregiver who gets a few hours to themselves.” One aspect of ACA is its focus on Central Alabama and keeping support as close to home as possible. “One of the best things about the

organization is that for each dollar donated, 89 cents goes to the patients and the programs here in Central Alabama,” Arenberg said. On May 7, the organization is celebrating its 25th anniversary at the annual Garden Art Party. The event will be held at Iron City from 7-10 p.m. and includes a live and silent auction. Tickets are $95 and the proceeds benefit the ACA’s many scholarship programs and services as well as medical research to find a cure for the disease. For more information, visit alzca. org. ❖

16 • Thursday, May 5, 2016

MOther’s Day Gift Guide

OVER THE MOUNTAIN Journal

Mother’s Day is May 8th!

Pots, custom make one or buy just the pot, starting at $19.99. Andy’s, Vestavia, 824-0233, Hwy 150, 402-2639.

Fun, colorful beach towels by Scents & Feel, $72. Table Matters, 879-0125.

Custom designed tri gold diamond pendant, $595. Avani Rupa Fine Jewelers, 982-4888.

It’s a dirty job, make Mom feel luxurious, $42. Margaruite’s Conceits, 879-2730.

GIVE mom A GIFT SHE WILL LOVE.

Framed artwork created with antique buttons, starting at $14. Attic Antiques, 991-6887.

Hanging baskets, $18.98. Classic Gardens and Landscapes, 854-4005.

Konstantino sterling and 18k yellow gold necklace with matching pendant; necklace, $470, pendant, $1,290. Barton-Clay, 871-7060.

A day at the spa. Vitalogy Wellness Center, 413-8599.

Charles Garnier sterling silver bracelets, starting at $199. Shay’s Jewelers, 978-5880.

Iconic iced cookies and petit fours in gift bags, starting at $4.25. Savages, 871-4901.

Mother's Day is May 8th

Fancy, Locally Made Gifts For Mom

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Thursday, May 5, 2016 • 17

MOther’s Day Gift Guide

OVER THE MOUNTAIN Journal

Keep calm and shop local!

Revision Skincare cream formulated to firm and lift the neck and décolletage, $73. Total Skin & Beauty Dermatology Center, 380-6123.

Glass top paper towel holder, $125. The Cook Store, 879-5277.

Magnetic, interchangeable pieces of semi-precious jewelry. Estate Jewelers of Mountain Brook, 414-8071.

Yeti Hopper 20 soft cooler, $299.99. Little Hardware, 871-4616.

14k amethyst ring, $645. Hanna Antiques, 323-6036.

Hand tuned Corinthian Bells wind chimes. Wild Birds Unlimited, 823 6500.

Beautifully colored, woven straw women’s tote with leather handles and a removable pouch with leather strap to keep your essentials in one place, $148. vineyard vines, 970-9758.

Bamboo teakwood large soy candle by Aquiesse, $38. Steed’s Jewelers, 822-9173.

Custom and pre-made gift baskets, starting at $34.99. Piggly Wiggly, Homewood, 879-0884, River Run, 776-8755, Bluff Park, 882-5631, Clairmont 252-0684.

Firefly Designs, lovingly handcrafted in Guatemala, starting at $33.50. Jewels by Rose, 979-5611.

Join us for our Trunk Show on May 8th is December JoinWednesday, us for our Trunk Show2on Mother's Day Thursday, December Wednesday, December 32 Thursday, December 3

Tis the season for honey We have Alabama honey and honey jars 2933 18th Street South Homewood, AL 35209 Monday - Saturday 10:00 AM - 5:30 PM 205-803-3900 www.alabamagoods.com Find us on Facebook

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18 • Thursday, May 5, 2016

MOther’s Day Gift Guide

OVER THE MOUNTAIN Journal

Thursday, May 5, 2016 • 19

MOther’s Day Gift Guide

OVER THE MOUNTAIN Journal

Spruce up Mom’s car this Mother’s Day with $100 towards a new convertible top replacement. Alabama Auto Tops, 251-0684.

Handcrafted assorted arrangements, including: flowers, chocolates, teddy bear and basket. Available for delivery. Sprout A Flower Market, 533-9006.

Julie Alyward faceted top blue mother of pearl 18” necklace, $120.00. John William Jeweller, 870-4367.

One of a kind purse from Lola Blue Designs. Made in the USA, $90.00. Fancy Goods Variety, 978-1451.

Lafonn rings, ranging in price from $130.00-$350.00. Southeastern Jewelers, 980-9030.

Lovely floral vase by Alabama Mud. Measures 6” tall. Available in store or online at alabamagoods.com, $40.00 Alabama Goods, 803-3900.

Hydrangea bronze metal with an antique bronze over copper finish necklace. Made in the USA, $385. Leaf & Petal, Mt. Brook, 871-3832, Summit, 967-3232, Botanical Gardens, 877-3030.

Ronaldo Designer jewelry. Handmade in the USA, starting at $74.95. The Blue Willow, 968-0909.

Rebecca Minkoff Clark Hobo handbag in almond colored leather, $295. Monkee’s of Mountain Brook, 783-1240.

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SpecialS

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Mix and MatCh May 19 - May 21

Deluxe body brush with dusting silk by Lady Primrose, $32.00. Christines on Canterbury, 871-8297.

Nina Nguyen carved turquoise pendant, $195. Levy’s Fine Jewelry, 251-3381.

Homestead small batch candles, $25. Available in several different scents. Shown in Fern. Christopher Glenn, 870-1236.

Pebble pearl cord pendants sterling or gold settings, $110. Trouvé, 490-1533.

Automatic open/close folding umbrellas in assorted prints, $28. Rosenberger’s Birmingham Trunk, 870-0971.

2037 Cahaba Road English Village (former iz cafe location) • 414-0081

Stop by and See uS during the engliSh village tent Sale! May 19 - May 21

Kay Over The Mountain Journal, PHONE: 205-823-9646 Hardware • 2117 caHaba road • engLisH viLLage • 871-4616 FAX: LittLe 205-824-1246 May 2016 This is your AD PrOOF from the OvEr THE MOuNTAiN JOurNAl for the May 5, 2016 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.

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 youSpecial for your prompt attention. TenT Sale

The gift of a cleaner and healthier home. The Maids, 871-9338.

TenT Sale

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Woodbury vase by Simon Pearce. Available in petite to extra-large, starting at $90. Bromberg’s, Mountain Brook, 871-3276, The Summit, 969-1776.

English Village

TenT Sale ThurSday, May 19th - SaTurday, May 21st

IncredIble SaleS, Trunk ShowS and SpecIal evenTS all weekend! Come by Thursday, May 19th from 5pm-8pm during Jazz wITh cIvITaS and shop, sip and stroll through englISh vIllage with a jazz band playing out on the street, this will be a night to remember! Other TenT Sale activities continue through Saturday, May 21st.

OYA - unglazed pottery irrigation. Bury the OYA leaving the neck exposed, fill with water. Water seeps through and into the surrounding soil. Small, $29.99, large, $34.99. Collier’s, 823-3133.

art • antiques • home English Village 2004 Cahaba Rd. • 490.1533

inside / out

tent sale & storewide sale May 19-20

To: From: Date:

Trisha Over The Mountain Journal, PHONE: 205-823-9646 FAX: 205-824-1246 April 2016

This is your AD PrOOF from the OvEr THE MOuNTAiN JOurNAl for the May 5, 2016 issue. Please fax approval or changes to 824-1246.

shop our tent

Please make sure all information is correct, including for low prices on art, address and phone number!

Please initial and fax back within 24 hours. glassware, accessories, etc. AND Thank you for your prompt attention. come inside for more good deals. everything in the store will be on sale!

if we have not heard from you by 5 pm of the Friday before the press date, your ad will run as is. We the paper Monday.

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20 • Thursday, May 5, 2016

social

OVER THE MOUNTAIN Journal

A Taste of Success

Journal photos by Emily Williams

From left: Emily and John Riser with Sybil and George Newton.

Local Chefs Gather for Annual Parkinson’s Association Fundraiser

ld Car Heaven turned into a culinary mecca April 21 for the Parkinson Association’s annual Taste for a Cure fundraiser, benefitting UAB’s medical research efforts to find a cure for Parkinson’s disease. The fundraiser was organized by association Executive Director Mary T Miller as well as a host committee. Serving as both emcee and auctioneer for the evening was Bob Straka. The night began with a silent auction as guests mingled and enjoyed food tastings with beer and wine pairings. Participating chefs included David Bancroft, Acre; Carey Thomasson, Dinner; Chris Cullen, El Barrio; George McMillan, FoodBar; Chris Zapalowski, Homewood Gourmet; Chris

Elizabeth Hubbard, Mary Virginia Cater, Cindy Watson and Kathy Jones.

Edwin Moss with Blake and Alison Chambliss.

The Southern Living Idea House is now our house. This summer, we invite you to see the Town of Mt Laurel’s latest collaboration with Southern Living Magazine. What began with our recognition as a Southern Living Inspired Community has expanded to include the 2016 Southern Living Idea House. Mt Laurel is proud to have been chosen for this showcase event that also coincides with Southern Living’s 50th anniversary celebration.

The Southern Living Idea House at Mt Laurel opens June 25, 2016. Tickets $15 at the door.

mtlaurel.com

59258 Mt Laurel JuneAd-OvertheMountain.indd 1

(205) 408-8696

3/25/16 2:38 PM

Thursday, May 5, 2016 â&#x20AC;˘ 21

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OVER THE MOUNTAIN Journal

Hastings, OvenBird; Aman Judge, Taj India; and Stone Hollow Farmstead, The Pantry. A live auction followed, featuring big ticket items such as University of Alabama football season tickets, a wine tasting for eight at the home of Mary and Ed Finch, quail hunts donated by Rusty Steward and Gates Shaw and a seven-night vacation to Costa Rica. Guests in attendance included Joan and Jim Rein, Robert Coker, Rusty and Carol Stewart, Mimi Bittick, Elizabeth and Tom Broughton, Rebecca and Russ Chambliss, Brian Corbett, Mary Virginia and Ken Cater, Elizabeth and Shane Hubbard, Mary and Ed Finch, Christopher and Craig Hey, Mary Louis and John Quinn, Mallie Ireland, Stewart Dansby, Alice Major, Suzie and John McCullough, Blair and Edwin Moss, Dan Thomasson, Julia and Oliver Williams, Buffy and Tim York, Phillip Johnson, Dr. John and Emily Riser, Will Riser, Emily Getty, Laura Murray, Brent Latta, Kelly Henderson, Ashley and Jason Goetz, Kristen and Nathan Collums, Mitzi and Richard Davis, Tricia Noble, Gloria Beall, Tookie and Keith Hazelrig, Kim and Mark Downey, Cami and Scott Perry, Meredy and John Hogue, Mary T and Bud Miller, Jamie and Matthew Laney, John Beard, Sybil and George Newton and Emily and Dowe Bynum. â?&#x2013;

Mimi Bittick, Stacy Cohen and Laura Finch.

Aaron Fons and Megan Burchfield.

Mary T Miller and Jamie Laney.

22 • Thursday, May 5, 2016

social

OVER THE MOUNTAIN Journal

Pride and responsibility drive us to be the best in everything we do.

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Superintendent Dr. Bill Cleveland with Homewood principals Dr. Patricia Simpson, Mr. Jimmie Pearson, Dr. Zack Barnes, Mrs. Abbie Freeman and Dr. John Lowry. Cover: Chris and Karen Cooper.

Taking Flight

Homewood City Schools Foundation Hosts Spring Fundraiser

To: From: Date:

The terrace at SoHo Square was transformed into an elegant outdoor dinner space for 540 guests as the Homewood City Schools Foundation hosted its annual Homewood Hanna Grown fundraiser April 18. antiques With a theme of “Roots Mall and Wings,” the foundation’s events committee chair, Rachel 2424 7th ave. so. Stone, used chalk-drawn illus(205) 323-6036 trations of the official foundation tree logo, along with feathMOn-sat 10:00-5:00 ers, fresh flowers and lighted branches, to create a magical garden atmosphere for guests. Stephanie and Daniel Sims. Each design element reinforced While HHS Patriot Pride the message that investments in educating Homewood students ensure Ambassadors delivered custom feather-shaped shortbread cookies, they have the roots to be grounded President Trent Ponder encouraged and the wings to fly off to success. guests to continue to give to support Bright, watermelon-colored tablethe foundation’s mission to provide cloths and black paper draped each curriculum enhancements and educatable, set for 10. Café DuPont catered tional development for students. the meal, which was served family Through sponsorships, ticket sales style – encouraging tablemates to visit and create new connections with each and donations at the event, the foundation raised $92,000. other. “The third annual Homewood After performances by singers Grown was a beautiful evening highRebecca Feldman, a Homewood lighting the success of the Homewood High School senior, and Hap City Schools and the amazing supWilliams, an HHS alum, guests were port of the Homewood community,” welcomed by foundation board Vice Ponder said. “Ronald’s comments President Emmie Smith. captured the theme of the evening that Julie Keith, past-president, prethe roots he developed as a student sented a video highlighting the five in Homewood schools have provided 2016 Teacher Impact Award winners: Hanna Antique Lisa Gaines, Mark Hellmers, Laura him the wings to find success in his Over The Mountain Journal, PHONE: 205-823-9646 FAX: 205-824-1246 Kapp, Carnetta Kennedy and Emily early coaching career.” ❖ Strickland. Each teacher received an April award of $500 for classroom mateThis is your AD PrOOF from the OvEr THE MOuNTAiN JOurNAl the rials orfor professional development and a $100 gift card to Gianmarco’s May 5, 2016 issue. Please fax approval or changes to 824-1246. Restaurant. Superintendent Bill Cleveland Please make sure all information is correct, introduced keynote speaker Ronald including address and phone number!Nored, a Homewood graduate and current coach of the Long Island Nets basketball team. Nored Please initial and fax back within 24 hours. professional spoke fondly of his years growing if we have not heard from you by 5 pm of the Friday before the press date, up in Homewood and how the comLauren Lachance Trunk your ad will run as is. We Show print the paper Monday. munity, his teachers and his coaches Tuesday, MayThank 10 and May attention. 11 youWednesday, for your prompt gave him the deep roots he still has in Homewood, and the wings he has used to fly to incredible levels of success in basketball, both as a college student and a coach. Karen and Chris Cooper.

Homewood City Schools Foundation President Trent Ponder and his wife, Mona.

HHS senior Marquis Hollingsworth and presenting sponsor Roger Redmond.

Bill and Emmie Smith.

Thursday, May 5, 2016 • 23

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Andy’s

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Photos special to the Journal

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Clockwise from above: Oasis Advisory Council Members Kim Rogers, far right and Sheryl Kimerling, third from the right, with luncheon guests. Luncheon chairman Corey Hartman. Will Ratliff, Kathy Bowden, Mary Johnson-Butterworth. Oasis Board President Carey McRae and Oasis Founder Anne BrunoLaRussa.

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This is your AD PrOOF from the OvEr THE MOuNTAiN JOurNAl for the May 5, 2016 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.

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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During its 10th annual Oasis of Hope Luncheon, Oasis raised $120,000 to fund its mission of providing mental health care for women, children and families living at or below the poverty line. The organization’s Anne Bruno LaRussa Award was presented to the Ratliff Family, with Will Ratliff and Mary Johnson-Butterworth present to accept it. More than 300 guests attended the luncheon, which was presented by Protective Life. The event had nearly 40 sponsors, including Regions Bank, Skin Wellness Center, Nolan Byers PC, HealthSouth, Harbert Management and Blue Cross Blue Shield. Dr. Corey Hartman was luncheon chairman. ❖

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Luncheon Raises $120,000 for Mental Health Services

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24 • Thursday, May 5, 2016

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OVER THE MOUNTAIN Journal

Attic Antiques Antiques • Vintage Industrial

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From left: Griffin and Marsha Lassiter, Dottie and Raleigh Kent and Lind Burks.

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Primarily Patriotic Pickwick Dance Club Hosts Election Party

Journal, PHONE: 205-823-9646

3301 Road, Ste. 1JOurNAl • Hoover This is your AD PrOOF from the Lorna OvEr THE MOuNTAiN for the www.shaysjewelers.com January 14, 2016 issue.978-5880 Please fax approval or changes to 824-1246.

make sure all information is correct, including address and phone number! Please initial and fax back withinPharmacy 24 hours. Eastwood

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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In the spirit of this year’s presidential primary elections, the Pickwick Dance Club held a red, white and blue patriotic celebration in March at the Mountain Brook Club. Party chairmen for the annual event were Tricia Ford and Jean Woodward. Guests were greeted by cocktails and appetizers in the living room before the music cranked up. The entertainment for the evening was Emily Joseph and her band, which played a variety of hits from ‘60s favorites to Motown to solo hits by Whitney Houston and Adele. Light fare for guests to enjoy included various gumbos, shrimp and grits and corn pones. The tables in the ballroom and the sunroom were decorated with red tablecloths and mirrors topped with glittery top hats with flags and starbursts. Patriotic buntings lined the bar and serving tables in the sunroom. After a round of “ruffles and flourishes,” incoming Pickwick President Jean Woodward delivered a short “state of the union” address confirming that the state of the Pickwick organization is strong and that it would continue to support the two party tradition – one in the fall and one in the spring. The founding members present at the party were introduced and presented with red, white and blue ribbon sashes. Pickwick Club officers in attendance included Helen and Richard Pardue, Ann and George Morris, Jean and Robert Woodward, Tricia and Jim Ford, Lindsay Cook and Lock Hunter, and Cathy Echols. Guests in attendance at the event were Patsy and Alan Dreher, Peggy and Jim Lee, Dottie Miller, Linda and Fred Turner, Linda and Bill Vann, Lisa and Charlie Venable, Susan and John Kidd, Charlotte and John Kearney, Pat and Tom Hinton, Beth and Bill Gunn, Jane and Butch Shalhoop, Tammy and Rick Towns, Courtney and Phil Brown, Vicki and Charles McGehee, Catherine Ann and J.B. Schilleci, Fran and Rob Glendinning, Beth and Rick

Above, Jerry Hodges, Sarah Saunders Hodges and Sharon and Emeris Graham. Below, Helen Pardue, Jean Woodward and Cathy Echols.

Woodward, Nancy and John Bagby, Phoebe and Red Robinson, Patty and Alan Baker, Julia Ann and Joe Cleage, Ann and Paul Liles, and Grace and Larry Whatley. Chris and Alston Ray, Evelyn and Steve Bradley, Marsha and Griffin Lassiter, Susan and George Nolen, Fran Fendley, Garnett and Jim Baker, Doris and Sam Sparks, Jan and Jack Shannon, Peggy and Jim Lee, Debbie McCorquodale and Billy Angel, Romona and Jim Shannon, Sara Beth Blair, Julianne and Jim Buckley, Kathy and Bill Graham, and Lind Burks with Greg Crook of Peachtree City, Georgia.

Bimi and Blair Cox, Yorke and Martin Williams, Pat and Bill Houseal, Jeanne and Jim Adair, Sara and Mike Clements, Garland and Lathrop Smith, Sarah and Jerry Hodges, Charlotte and Cathy Echols, Kelley and Pete Gage, Barbara Jean and Griffin Langston, Molly Bradley, Gail and Alan Howle, Mallory Gray and Paul Samuelson, Dottie and Raleigh Kent, Anne and Bill Johnston, Terry and Buzzy Borland, Sharon and Emeris Graham, Renee and Ted Townley, Bootsie and Lowell Garrett, Dana and Tommy Norton, and Marion and Robby Nichols. ❖

Thursday, May 5, 2016 • 25

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OVER THE MOUNTAIN Journal

Virtuoso Performances

Lauren Williams, Rachel Pickering and Lindsay South.

Rehab Reality by Jeffrey Butler

First-place scholarship winners of the Birmingham Music Club Guild’s 2016 competition gave virtuoso performances for the guild’s annual spring luncheon meeting at Mountain Brook Club April 8. The event drew an enthusiastic group of Guild members and guests in the club’s sunroom with décor featuring palms, ferns and a variety of plants massed against the walls of the room. Moss swags embellished with miniature white lights hung overhead. Luncheon tables were centered with square glass containers filled with moss and holding colorful spring plants. Ellen Tucker and Susan Boston chaired the luncheon. Mountain Brook Club hosts were Beth and Scott Adams. Guild President Marsha Drennen welcomed attendees, and Angie Holder gave the invocation. Incoming Guild President Linda Griggs presided at a brief business meeting. Scholarship Chairman Elaine Clark introduced the three first-place scholarship competition winners. Violinist Lindsey South performed a breathtaking rendition of “The Lark Ascending,” by Ralph VaughanWilliams. A University of Alabama student, she was accompanied on the piano by Lauren Williams and holds the Stuart Mims Instrumental Scholarship. Soprano Rachel Pickering, a University of Montevallo student, gave a superb performance of Charles Gounod’s “Ah! Jeveux Vivre,” from Romeo and Juliette,” accompanied

by Dr. Lynn Faulkner. Pickering holds the Penelope Cunningham Voice Scholarship. Pianist Lauren Ashley Williams holds the Mildred Volentine Green Piano Scholarship and won the competition’s Walter Sechriest Best Performance Award. A University of Alabama student, she gave a brilliant performance of Frederick Chopin’s “Scherzo No.2, B-flat minor, Opus 31.” Second-place scholarship winners were Miles Jenkins, voice, a University of Montevallo student who holds the Dr. Oscar and Ellen Dahlene Scholarship; and University of Alabama students David Mach, piano, Madeline Cawley, flute, and Juneho Joshua Kim, cello. Among guests attending the event were BMC Board President Wyatt Haskell, Susan Haskell and BMC Executive Director Ron Bourdages. Others attendees included Liz Alosi, Beth Adams, Charlann Anderson, Dot Anderson, Judy Anderson, Roberta Atkinson, Diane Beck, Sally Bergquist, Susan Boston, Jeanne Bradford, Anne Carey, Cheree Carlton, Cheryl Caselbere, Elaine Clark, Lochrane Coleman Smith, Linda Cooper, Audrey Cornutt, Lesley DeRamus, Martha Ann Doyal, Marsha Drennen, Jane Ellis, Marjorie Forney, Diane Gay, Janine Goode, Pat Grant and Linda Griggs. Virginia Guthrie, Tallulah Hargrove, Angie Holder, Elaine Hornberger, Margarette Hoomis, Mary Jensen, Becky Keyes, Juanita

Garden Club Welcomes New Officers

Sprig O’Holly Garden Club installed new officers at its April 11 luncheon meeting at The Club. The event was hosted by Joan Hinkle, Betty Weeks and Elaine Wood. Colorful spring plants centered round luncheon tables where guests sat and listened to restaurant reviewer Fletcher Harvey. He covered a number of new restaurants and old favorites as “The Galloping Gourmet.” Following the program, Hinkle, club president, installed the new officers to serve in 2016-17. They are Anne Michaels, president; Virginia Chappelle, vice president; Fay Hart, secretary; and Tallulah Hargrove, treasurer. Other members are Betty Bowen, Martha Chism, Kay Davidson, Sarah Dodd, Marilyn Gross, Faye Hallman, Nell Larson, Jan McElroy, Lovie Montgomery, Betty Nunis, Adrienne O’Brien, Helen Smalley, Cille Spader and Janis Zeanah. Judge Laura Petro will present the program, “Questions & Answers,” at the May meeting at the Vestavia Hills home of Anne Michaels. Her co-hostesses are O’Brien and Spader. ❖

Photos special to the Journal

BMC Guild Welcomed Spring on a High Note

The wheels on the bus go round and round.

From left: Beth Adams, Susan Boston, Marsha Drennen and Ellen Tucker.

Kirby, Martha Lamberth, Terry McBride, Virginia McDorman, Martha McSwain, Amy Miller, Betty Miller, Malcolm Miller, Sandy Miller, Susan Miller, Nancy Morow, Lu Moss, Frances Owens, Powell Owens, Margaret Patrick, Kathie

Ramsey, Carolyn Reich, Betsy Rietz, Catherine Rogers, Phyllis Russell, Mary-Noel Sellers, Ellen Tucker, Heather Waldron, Elise Warren, Sue Watkins, Kathryn Waters, Cynthia Watt, Clacy Wheeler, Patty Warren and Janis Zeanah. ❖

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At The Grand Bohemian Hotel From left: Sprig O’Holly officers Tallulah Hargrove, Fay Hart, Anne Michaels, Virginia Chappelle and Joan Hinkle.

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I want to talk about something that has been driving me crazier than usual lately. I want to talk about the pharmaceutical industry. Let me start by saying that I do believe in pharmacology. Medicines have made our lives better unquestionably. If you are suffering from debilitating anxiety, taking a benzodiazepine that allows you to function is obviously a godsend. If I were in acute pain from an injury, an opioid would be my preferred choice too. I mention these two types of drugs because these two are the most abused and also the most addictive. I speak from experience. What troubles me is that Big Pharma is continuing to create an industry that is selfsustaining at our expense. There is a commercial being playing ad nauseam about a new drug to combat opioid constipation, a major side effect of prolonged use. Really? God forbid we try to find a way to take a person off opioids. Let's just cash in on treating the side effects! It's a great business model, but a pitiful solution to healing. The simple truth is God doesn't give us anything that we can't handle. It might not be and rarely is easy or own our schedule, but it's the truth. Instead of turning to yet another pill, we need to learn how to live life on its terms, whatever that may be. Our staff at Bayshore Retreat can help you learn how to do just that.

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26 • Thursday, May 5, 2016

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OVER THE MOUNTAIN Journal

Give what you love...

Love what you give!

Photos special to the Journal

Pottery by Jessie

Microwave, Dishwasher and Oven Safe 2841 Cahaba Road Mtn. Brook Village • 879-5277 M-F 10-5 • Sat 10-4 www.thecookstoremtnbrook.com

Front, from left: Kim Ydel, Julie Terrell, Daley King, Deana Hughes, Abigail Corcoran, Blair Crabtree and Meg Webb. Back: Julie Herring, Chris Newell, Grace Kipp, Holly Daugherty, Jennifer Stripling, Stacey Morales, Carrie Hawkins, Robin Peterson and Amber Kelley.

Bucks for Bell

Bell Center Founder Celebrates 75th at Annual Guild Gala The Service Guild of Birmingham welcomed more than 650 guests to The Club March 19 for the 28th annual Guild Gala. The event was coordinated by the guild’s gala chair, Blair Crabtree, and a live auction was organized by Blaire Middleton, gala auction chair. Both chairs were supported by a gala committee including guild President Deana Hughes, Erin Donohoo, Rachel Swatek, Mary

To: thecookstore@msn.com From: Over The Mountain Journal, PHONE: 205-823-9646 FAX: 205-824-1246 Date: April

Diddell, Wendi Miller, Stephanie Lynch, Deidre Booker, Jackie Jenkins, Kari Powell, Cia Tompkins, Rachel Waters, Robin Nix, Lindsay Mullins, Louisa Jeffries, Katy Bunshaw, Amanda Dwyer and Brandi Lowery. Music provided by The Tip Tops set the mood for the celebration and the event’s programs were emceed by Jox Roundtable. The evening brought in more than $280,000 to benefit The Bell Center for Early Intervention Programs, a facility dedicated to maximizing the potential of children from birth to three years of age who are at risk for developmental delay. In a highlight of the gala’s program, the founding director of The Bell Center, Betty Bell, was recognized, as she celebrated her 75th birthday. ❖

This is your AD PrOOF from the OvEr THE MOuNTAiN JOurNAl for the 4-9-15 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.

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.

From left: Roger Milols, Laurie Haworth, Stan Burns, Patsy Burns, Judy Carns and Jim Carns.

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Charades Dance Club Parties in Roaring ‘20s Style

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The Charades Dance Club held its open party March 12 at the Mountain Brook Club. Robert Logan of Backstage Florist provided lavish Roaring ‘20s décor throughout the country club, complete with life-size flapper silhouettes. Members donned headbands, feathers, long and knotted beads, elbow-length gloves, fringe and boas. Greeting guests as they arrived were Charades President Judy Bewley with husband, Adrian, and club member hostess Carolyn Featheringill. Co-Chairwomen Carol Corvin and Karen Lloyd, along with Sallie White, treasurer, planned the gala. Attending with the committee members were Jerry Corvin, Keith Lloyd and Carlos White. The evening began with a cocktail hour in the living room, where guests gathered around a large, revolving champagne glass with a flapper sitting in it. Following drinks, a dinner of cit-

11/10/15 10:16 AM

rus pecan salad, filet, dauphinoise potatoes, baby vegetables, corn pones and bourbon pecan torte topped with vanilla ice cream was served. Each dining table centerpiece included a tall, liquid-filled glass cylinder centered on a mirror and surrounded by reflecting votive candles. The containers also were decorated with pearl and rhinestone strips and topped with small disco balls. After the meal, guests hit the dance floor in the ballroom to enjoy music provided by the band Rock Candy under the reflections of a disco ball. Guests in attendance included Carolyn and Delmar Hill, Dorothy and Gerry Hodges, Dale and John Holditch, Loretta and Hugh Hood, Anne and Tom Lamkin, Pat and Wimberly Miree, George Ann and Alton Parker, Milner and Allen Phillips, Leslie Puckett and Les Goins, Carolyn Reed, Susan and Lee Reeves, Martha and Tom Roberts, Helen and Ty Robin, Emily and Tom

Scarbrough, Marianne and Paul Sharbel, Lynn andWheeler Smith, Susan Strickland, Rita and Burr Spencer, Laurie Haworth and Roger Mills, and Marsha and Eddie Terrell. Lana and Harry Thompson, Janie and Bud Trammell, Rae and Steve Trimmier, Diana and Bill Turnipseed, Karen and Charlie Watkins, Margaret and Eason Balch, Jeannie and Harry Bradford, Anne Carey, Evelyn and Steve Bradley, Naomi and Kirk Cunningham, Mary Michael Bowman and Jim Hooker, Patsy and Stan Burns, Judy and Jim Carns, Carol and Charles Crabbe, Ellen and Russell Cunningham, Anne and Ken Dawson, Sara Lynn and Fox DeFuniak, Katie and Brad Dunn, Anne and Rick Finch, Nancy and Tom Gaskin, Claire and Pat Goodhew, Pam and Rick Kilgore, and Mary and David Putman. ❖

Thursday, May 5, 2016 • 27

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OVER THE MOUNTAIN Journal

Journal photos by Emily Williams

Miller-Wingate

From left: April DeLuca, Barbara Henry, Ashleigh Dunham, Aldith McMicken and Roberta Atkinson. Below, Betty Daigle and Pam Edwards.

Flora Festivities

Hoover Service Club Hosts Coffee in the Gardens

Mr. and Mrs. Gerald Lee Miller of Hoover announce the engagement of their daughter, Rachel Lauren Miller, to Brian Andrew Wingate, son of Mr. and Mrs. Jack Graham Wingate of Headland. The bride-elect is the granddaughter of the late Mr. and Mrs. Marvin Eugene Byram of Birmingham and the late Mr. and Mrs. Paul Thomas Miller of Birmingham. Miss Miller is a graduate of Hoover High School and a summa cum laude graduate of Auburn University, where

More than 70 guests flocked to Aldridge Gardens on April 14 for the Hoover Service Club’s annual membership coffee. Hostesses for the event were members Paula Campbella and Leisa Pitts. Large flower arrangements in shades of pink and white were on display due to the hard work of LaVerne Martin, Linda Corliss and Margaret Payne. Food for the event included pimento cheese sandwiches, brownies and madeleines provided by members of the group. A staple of the meeting, club yearbooks, were on display and organized by Rhonda Boyd. Club President Betty Daigle described the coffee as a success as the club welcomed more than 20 non-members to the meeting to learn more about the organization. ❖

Showtime

Mitchell’s Place Gala Takes on Oscars Theme Guests dressed in their celebrity best for Mitchell’s Place’s annual Oscars-themed gala Feb. 18 at The Club. This elegant evening began with the arrival of more than 450 guests. Attendees entered the venue on the red carpet and enjoyed cocktail hour, with passed hors d’oeuvres and champagne, while dancing to the Ron Mitchell Meisler.

Vogelgesang Orchestra and perusing a silent auction offering more than 200 items. The night continued with a seated dinner, followed by cake from Olexa’s in Mountain Brook Village. Following dinner, a live auction gave guests the opportunity to bid on trips to locations such as Los Cabos, Mexico; Sonoma County, California; and Alys Beach, Florida. To end the evening, guests moved to the venue’s veranda and were treated to a private fireworks show. Proceeds from the event will benefit Mitchell’s Place, a non-profit treatment center that caters to children and adolescents with autism spectrum disorder. ❖

Baren-Odom

Drs. Peter and Isabel Baren of Birmingham announce the engagement of their daughter, Nicole Alexis Baren, to David Harris Odom, son of Mr. Lynn Odom and Mrs. Michyo Anna Odom of Tennessee.

Mark Zellefrow and Kelly Hochstetter.

Ogilvie-Deer

Mr. and Mrs. Morgan Oslin Ogilvie Jr. of Birmingham announce the engagement of their daughter, Mary Riley Ogilvie, to Charles Alan Deer, son of Mr. and Mrs. Richard Alan Deer of Birmingham. The bride-elect is the granddaugh-

she received a bachelor’s degree and master’s degree in elementary education and was a member of Kappa Alpha Theta sorority. She is a teacher at Pleasant Grove Elementary School. The prospective groom is the grandson of the late Mr. and Mrs. Lou Brackett of Oakdale, Connecticut, and Mrs. Patricia Wingate and the late Mr. Raymond John Wingate of Keystone Heights, Florida. Mr. Wingate is a graduate of Dixie Academy in Louisville, Alabama. He is a graduate of Florida State University, where he received a bachelor’s degree in music, Chipola State Community College, where he received an associate’s degree in nursing, Jacksonville State University, where he received a bachelor’s degree in nursing, the University of Alabama at Birmingham, where he received a master’s degree in nursing, and the University of Massachusetts at Boston, where he received a postmaster’s certificate as a family nurse practitioner. He is employed as a nurse practitioner with Cahaba Medical Care in Centreville. The wedding will be July 2 at Church of the Highlands Chapel with the reception to follow at The Carriage House at Park Crest in Hoover. The bride-elect is the granddaughter of Mrs. Luz Barrenechea and the late Mr. Pedro Barrenechea of Miami and the late Mr. and Mrs. Joaquin Rodriquez of Fayetteville, Arkansas. Miss Baren is a graduate of Mountain Brook High School and a cum laude graduate of the University of Alabama with a bachelor’s degree in English. She will graduate with a doctor of pharmacy degree from Samford University’s McWhorter School of Pharmacy in May. The prospective groom is the grandson of Mr. and Mrs. James Harris of Knoxville and the late Mrs. Wilma Odom of Nashville. Mr. Odom is a graduate of Hoover High School and the University of Alabama at Birmingham with a bachelor’s degree in mechanical engineering. He is employed with Southern Company. The wedding will be in May at Our Lady of Sorrows Catholic Church. ter of Mrs. Morgan Oslin Ogilvie of Birmingham and the late Mr. Morgan Oslin Ogilvie, and the late Mr. and Mrs. William Morris Walton of Jasper. Miss Ogilvie is a graduate of the University of Alabama with a bachelor’s degree in mathematics and a master’s degree in secondary education. She was presented at the Beaux Arts Krewe Ball and the Ball of Roses. She is employed in Birmingham. The prospective groom is the grandson of Mrs. Charles Henry Deer of Monroeville and the late Mr. Charles Henry Deer, and Mr. and Mrs. Robert Joseph Verdeyen of Hagerstown, Maryland and Mr. and Mrs. Raymond Joseph Gaillard of Naples, Florida. Mr. Deer is a graduate of the University of Alabama with a bachelor’s degree in accounting and a graduate of the University of Texas with a master’s degree in professional accounting. He is employed in Birmingham. The wedding is planned for July 16.

28 • Thursday, May 5, 2016

schools

OVER THE MOUNTAIN Journal

Vestavia Hills High School students will create a rooftop garden using donations from the Jefferson County Farmers Federation and the Alabama Farmers Agriculture Foundation. The federation donated $2,500 and AFAF provided $5,000. “We’re very happy to help Vestavia Hills take this innovative idea from concept to reality with this donation,” Federation President John Morris said during an event in which the checks were presented to Vestavia Hills High School officials. “Working the soil and growing something

yourself provides important lessons in responsibility and problem-solving. Students will benefit from this garden for years to come.” The 1,600-square foot rooftop garden will be located on a structure near the school football stadium. It will be a working classroom, with up to 500 students learning lessons related to natural and social sciences, math, language arts, visual arts and nutrition. Teachers will use the space for projects in art, technology and consumer sciences. Students designed the space, taking into account water runoff and storage. They plan to harvest

Hoover Student Selected to Perform in the 2017 Rose Parade

and Bonnie Johnson. His band directors at Hoover High School are Ryan Fitchpatrick, Sallie White, Jeff Fondren and Matthew Cicero.

Daniel Johnson, a junior at Hoover High School, has been selected by Music for All to be a member of the Bands of America Honor Band in the 2017 Tournament of Roses Parade. Johnson was selected from among hundreds of applicants across the nation. The BOA Honor Band is a 300piece national ensemble with winds, percussion and a flag and dance team. As a member of the band, Johnson, a trumpet player, will spend a week Daniel Johnson in southern California, where he will have rehearsals, performances at the Tournament of Roses Bandfest and Disneyland, special activities and a featured appearance in the 128th Rose Parade on Jan. 2. “To be selected for this opportunity is a once-in-a-lifetime experience for students and a testimony to their excellence and achievements,” said Eric Martin, Music for All president and CEO. “Daniel will be one of only 300 members chosen to be part of the Bands of America Honor Band, and his participation deserves the admiration and support of everyone in their community. The Rose Parade is one of our country’s national pageantry treasures, and the 2017 Honor Band members will be ambassadors of America’s bands, and of their states and communities.” Daniel Johnson is the son of Don

School of Fine Arts Student Wins First Place in Publishing Contest Alabama School of Fine Arts has another first place winner of the Booksa-Million Publishing Contest. Alabama School of Fine Arts freshman Daniel Blokh of Homewood won with his submission “In Migration.” According to school officials, he was chosen unanimously by the judges as the most outstanding submission. “(Blokh’s) writing demonstrates talent and, more importantly, a keen insight into the human experience. We are excited to reward Daniel and ASFA for this excellent work,” BAM! Publishing Coordinator Joyce McKinnon said. Blokh’s book is a collection of creative non-fiction essays about his life and memories. It includes eight essays, each based on a theme he had associated with certain images. He digs into the imagery to find the memories and experiences related to them; thus, each image becomes a symbol for something. One essay, centering on water, connects his experiences learning to swim, seeing the ocean for the first time and taking a trip to a pool in the middle of the night, with water symbolizing the unknown. Blokh credits his writing success to his teacher, Iris Rinke-Hammer. He wrote the essays that would form the book in her creative non-fiction class. “She introduced so many styles, writers and forms of creative non-fiction. Without her I would have been lost. I’d never considered myself as a non-fiction writer, but she gave us prompts that really helped me dig into my personal

Photo special to the Journal

Jefferson County Farmers Donate to Rooftop Garden for Vestavia Hills High Students

Members of the Jeff. Co. Farmers Federation and Alabama Farmers Agriculture Foundation presented funds to VHHS officials to construct a rooftop garden. Those present were, from left, Wallace Drury, Rhonda Hughes, Pauline Morris, John W. Morris, Laura Casey, Dexter LeBlanc and Joann Wissinger.

and cook with herbs and produce from the garden. In the grant application for the project, school foundation Executive Director Ashley Thompson said evidence shows students at schools

with garden projects score significantly higher on standardized science achievement tests. “The goal is to introduce a more active approach to learning, and as a result the students will increase skills

and interest in science,” Thompson said. “There will be conversations, observations and comparisons taking place. Students will be consulting with one another, teachers and experts about their findings.” ❖

life yet gave me the space to develop my own voice,” Blokh said. His recent success in the BAM! contest follows three poetry awards and two non-fiction awards he won as part of the Scholastic Art and Writing Awards. “Before this I never thought of writing as a career, just something I’d always do, but Daniel Blokh not something financially stable enough. Now though I’m rethinking that,” Blokh said. The book will be available for sale at the Books-A-Million in Brookwood Village and online at booksamillion.com.

All royalties from the book will go to the school, and $3,000 in gift cards will be given to ASFA to supply the school’s library and classrooms.

Brook Board of Education, facing students from the four Mountain Brook elementary schools and the Highlands School. According to school officials, the name of Landy’s favorite food, macaroni, was Ellen Landy the winning word that took her to the Jefferson County Bee, which was held at the Lincoln Center in downtown Birmingham. There she won with the word “wallop” and made her way to the state bee, where she finished in the top 20.

MBJH Student Wins Top 20 at State Spelling Bee Mountain Brook Junior High student Ellen Landy recently represented her school at the Alabama State Spelling Bee held at Alabaster United Methodist Church. Landy began the competition process in November by competing in her English class bee. She advanced to the MBJH schoolwide bee, where student winners from all English classes competed in the auditorium. Upon winning, she advanced to the district bee at the Mountain

Hoover Jazz Band Swings High at Savannah Music Festival The award-winning Hoover High School First Edition Jazz Band recently competed against the nation’s top high school jazz bands at the Savannah Swing Central Jazz Festival, held March 30 through April 1. First Edition was one of 12 bands selected by audition. The competition concluded with a packed-house finale April 1 at the historic Lucas Theatre for the Arts in Savannah. The event included a showing of the 1920 film “Within Our Gates,” with an original score composed and conducted by Wycliffe Gordon and performed by this year’s Swing Central Jazz faculty. Under the direction of Sallie Vines White, First Edition director and Hoover band associate director, this is the band’s fifth appearance at Swing Central since 2008. She was accompanied on the trip by Hoover

band director Ryan Fitchpatrick and associate director Matthew Cicero. In 2014, the band was selected as a featured performer at the Jazz Educator’s Network in Dallas and in 2012 performed at the Midwest Clinic in Chicago. First Edition received all superior ratings at the Loyola Jazz Festival in New Orleans from 2000 to ‘05 and again in 2015. Additionally, the band participated in the North Texas Jazz Festival in 2006 and 2007. According to band directors, the First Edition Jazz Band regularly performs at venues throughout the greater Birmingham area and is well represented at the Alabama All-State Jazz Bands each year. Recently, jazz artists Jeff Coffin and Rashawn Ross, from the Dave Matthews band, conducted a clinic with the band. ❖

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First row, from left: William Ayers, Michael Hughes, Rahul Shah and Josh Constantine. Second row: Andrew Thomas, Joseph Phillips, Sawyer Patterson, Jeffrey Crowley, Carson Fehler, Connor Smith, Nick Caine, Sallie Vines White, Matthew Cicero and Ryan Fitchpatrick. Third row: Daniel Johnson, Nathan Solomon, Aaron Edwards, Joel Sullivan, Andy Orphanos, Zach Fox, Tyler Greengard, Ben Solomon, James Parker and Daniel Phillips.

OVER THE MOUNTAIN Journal

The Smelly Ladybug

schools

Thursday, May 5, 2016 • 29

By Emily Williams Returning from a trip to “the happiest place on earth” sparked an idea in the mind of Hoover High School student Rowen ElQishawi that is taking her to the International Intel Science Fair in Phoenix this month. While frolicking through Orlando’s Walt Disney World, ElQishawi had no idea that an infestation of ladybugs would greet her when she returned home. “When I walked in to my room, ladybugs were everywhere,” she said. “I walked in thinking ‘home sweet home’ and started to take off all of my stuff and by then I realized that there were two ladybugs on me crawling around and everything smelled really bad.” Being naturally curious, ElQishawi decided to dig into the source of the smell, discovering that the cause was the blood of an Asian ladybug species. Her brain made an odd connection. The ladybugs are Asian. A plant disease she learned about that ravages citrus trees is Asian. Could the blood of the Asian ladybugs be used to create a pesticide with the potential to “cure” that disease? Her approach attacked the psyllid, a small insect that transmits Huanglongbing, also known as HLB or Citrus Greening Disease, from one plant to another. Her research proved successful. She was able to show that the ladybugs’ blood has the potential to be a cure for HLB, but she also found that it has potential as an antibiotic against certain strains of e-coli. ElQishawi, with the help of her sister Rosen

and her engineering mind, entered her project into the UAB-Cord Central Alabama Regional Science and Engineering Fair. Her project took first place in the environmental science category and was one of four promoted to the International Intel science fair. “If it wasn’t for my parents saying it was a good idea or my child-like self saying to give it a try, I wouldn’t be here right now,” ElQishawi said. An hour-long class devoted to independent study during the school day didn’t hurt either. The course was set up by teacher Janet Ort, who ElQishawi said has been one of her biggest supporters. Following Ort’s example, ElQishawi tries to lend that same support to younger students she works with at Brock’s Gap Intermediate School. “I always tell my students, the process of innovation has been one of the bumpiest ones I’ve ever encountered, but I can honestly tell you that I have failed my way to success. All you need to do is realize that there are many doors and that many of them will shut,” she said. She said the slammed doors are sometimes a blow to her self-esteem, but her family has always been there to support her. Representing Muslim Women

When she isn’t busy inspiring others, researching or taking a much needed break with friends, ElQishawi lends her time to another passion as a spokesperson for Muslim women. In early April, she took part in a panel through Leadership Birmingham where she had the opportunity to share her experiences as a

Journal photo by Emily Williams

Hoover Student Seals Spot at International Intel Science Fair

Hoover High School student Rowen ElQishawi took a smelly infestation and turned it into an environmental science project that will take her to the International Intel Science Fair this month.

Muslim woman in Alabama. “I’m a really big advocate for changing people’s perception of Muslim women,” she said. “People think that Muslim women are oppressed and I would beg to differ.” She grew up watching her mother wear a scarf over her hair, knowing it was a sign of piety in their religion, but she did not wear one until she reached sixth grade. “When I wore it at first it was an experiment. I had always been curious and have seen my mother go out in a scarf and was familiar with what was going on in the world,” she said. Her first trip was to the library. There she was almost immediately met with a young boy who

pointed at her and called her a terrorist, an experience that she says shattered her soul but also strengthened her resolve. “If this is how people who haven’t even met me view me, then I’m going to wear this scarf and show people that Muslims are your scientists, your caretakers and they are your doctors,” she said. “We are human beings.” She went on to say that she encourages others to ask her questions. Curiosity is something that led her to success in the sciences and it is something that leads her to tell others to be themselves, pursue what inspires them and use what they create to make the world a better place. ❖

food

30 • Thursday, May 5, 2016

OVER THE MOUNTAIN Journal

Keeping It Real

Brewery Bash: Mudbugs and Music Benefits Arthritis Foundation

Crawfish takes center stage at Mudbugs and Music, a May 14 fundraiser hosted by the Arthritis Foundation’s Birmingham Junior Board. The 12th annual event from 2 to 7 p.m. at Good People Brewing Co. in Birmingham also features local food trucks, music by Cooper Trent and the Stephen McCullough Band, and activities for all ages. Tickets are $30 at the gate and include crawfish and sides. There’s no charge for children under age 12 – and they’ll also get free Domino’s Pizza. For more information, visit www. mudbugsandmusic.com.

(and Rosemary) Jennifer Mims’ Mom and Children Inspired Her New Homewood Restaurant

By Donna Cornelius

Southern Sampler: North Shelby Baptist Plans Taste of the South

Jennifer Mims wants her children, Jemma and Caleb, to learn to love the fresh foods their mom had as a child. Mims said her restaurant’s name came from the “real” food it serves – with no preservatives, food dyes or MSG – and from one of her mother’s favorite plants.

Photos special to the Journal

daughter as a Gerber baby. That’s not because Jemma, now 4, wasn’t bright-eyed and beautiful, but because her mother shied away from storebought food. “I made more than 90 percent of my daughter’s baby food,” Mims said. “When our second child was born, there was no time to do that. But I wanted to feel good about feeding my family and also to make things that my husband would eat. I wanted to have normal food in a fresh way.” These days, the Cahaba Heights mom is feeding not only her family – which includes her husband, Les, and their son, Caleb, almost 2 – but customers at her new Homewood restaurant as well. She started planning Real & Rosemary about a year ago and opened it in March with business partner Nate Carlson. Her own mother, Joy Traywick, was one of her inspirations, she said. “I’m from Clanton – peach country,” Mims said. “Growing up there, we always had a lot of fresh fruits and vegetables available. Mom had a garden, and we’d go to the farmers market.” Eating garden-grown food and doing chores like shelling peas, picking pecans and husking corn were a big part of her childhood, she said. “Once I moved to Birmingham, I realized everyone didn’t grow up that way,” Mims said. After graduating from the University of Alabama with a bachelor’s degree in finance and a master’s degree in real estate, Mims went to work for Zoe’s Kitchen.

Photo by CBM Photo

You couldn’t describe Jennifer Mims’

“Since it was a smaller company, I got to wear a lot of hats,” she said. “I worked on about 50 restaurants and learned a lot. I also ran Maki Fresh and worked at Jinsei Sushi.” Mims said her restaurant’s name came from the “real” food it serves – with no preserva-

tives, food dyes or MSG – and from one of her mother’s favorite plants. “My mom always grew rosemary as well as mint and other herbs and cooked with them,” she said. Diners likely will recognize most of the ingredients listed on the menu. But they may be surprised by the ways in which they’re combined. Take collard greens, for example. “My grandma would always sneak collards into cornbread,” Mims said. “For our Fig and Collard Salad, we cut the collards in chiffonade style and serve them raw. It’s a grown-up way to eat collards. We also use them in a pesto.” Also on the menu, which Mims said will be updated from time to time, are intriguing creations such as sweet potato wedges with lemongrass dipping sauce; a beet, fig and goat cheese sandwich made with cranberry-walnut bread; flounder cakes with yogurt remoulade; and braised meatballs made from a recipe that’s See real, page 33

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North Shelby Baptist Church will hold its annual Taste of the South on May 7. The outdoor event includes a food competition, live music, inflatable games for children and community Culinary outreach. Community News and Those who attend are treated Events to a free lunch and can taste barbecue, ribs, cornbread and other Southern favorites – plus vote for their favorite food item. Participating teams provide their own food, and all cooking is done on site. Church members of all ages work together on the event. For more information, visit northshelbybaptist. org. The church is at 4100 Belcher Drive in Birmingham.

BBQ and a Side of Blues: Bob Sykes Festival Returns to Bessemer

The seventh annual Bob Sykes BBQ & Blues Festival will be May 21 at DeBardeleben Park in downtown Bessemer. The event includes Bob Sykes barbecue, music, children’s activities and an arts and crafts area. Gates open at 11 a.m., and the festival ends at 8 p.m. General admission is $15. Children ages 12 and younger get in free. Part of the festival proceeds will benefit the Clay House Children’s Center for neglected and abused children. For more festival information, visit bobsykesblues.com.

Farm to Table: Eat, Drink and Meet the Residents at Stone Hollow Event

Stone Hollow Farmstead in Harpersville will host one of its farm dinners May 14.

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Bluff Park 882-5631

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Thursday, May 5, 2016 • 31

food

OVER THE MOUNTAIN Journal

cocktails. The cost is $95. For reservations, call 803-3585 or email info@ stonehollowfarmstead.com. Tickets also are available at The Pantry at 17 Dexter Ave. in Mountain Brook’s Crestline Village. For more information, visit stonehollowfarmstead.com.

earned national recognition. Garden & Gun writer John T. Edge ranked Johnny’s Greek meatballs in his Top 10 Dishes of 2014. Johnny’s is at 2902 18th St. For more about the restaurant, visit johnnyshomewood.com. Another Birmingham restaurant,

Niki’s West, also got a nod in the article. “Tim Hontzas’s first cousins run this massive meat and three, launched by their father, Gus (Johnny’s brother), in 1957, feeding several thousand diners a day a mix of classic Southern and Greek dishes,” the article said. ❖

Photo special to the Journal

Masters of the Meat and Three: Homewood Eatery Makes Wall Street Journal Article

An opportunity to meet the farm animals is included in the Stone Hollow Farmstead dinner event on May 14.

The event starts with an opportunity to meet the farm animals at 4 p.m. Cocktails are served in the garden at 5 p.m. followed by dinner at 6 p.m.

Chefs will be members of Les Dames, a women’s culinary group led by Chef Angela Schmidt. Mixologist Damien Camacho Santa Ana will create

Johnny’s in Homewood was among restaurants mentioned in an April 13 Wall Street Journal article called “The Meat-and-Three Makeover: Southern Cooking Rethought.” “While the appeal of customization seems to be driving the new restaurants up north, for Southern chefs the format is more often a return to their roots,” writer Jay Cheshes said in the article. “Tim Hontzas worked in top kitchens across the country before launching Johnny’s Homewood in Birmingham, Ala., in 2012, the city’s first modern meat and three.” The article said that Johnny’s is named after the family-style restaurant that Tim Hontzas’s grandfather, Johnny Hontzopolous, ran in Jackson, Miss. “The restaurant serves updated versions of the meatloaf and fried frog’s legs once featured on its antecedent’s vast menu,” Cheshes wrote. Hontzas was quoted in the article: “I still have his recipes on little note cards. Sometimes I’ll just look at his old menus and they’ll spark ideas.” The restaurant’s meat and vegetables aren’t the only menu items that have

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Jeremy 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 apr issue. Please fax approval or changes to 824-1246.

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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.

Thank you for your prompt attention.

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food

Journal photo by Emily Williams

OVER THE MOUNTAIN Journal

Naseem Ajlouny, Basim Ajlouny and Andy Virciglio, from left, are hard at work preparing for the Crestline Piggly Wiggly’s grand re-opening, in a new location, at the end of the month. With 28,250 square feet, the new store is about 1½ times larger than the old store and will include one of the largest craft beer selections in the state.

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Back by Popular Demand Piggly Wiggly Almost Ready to Return to Crestline Village

By Donna Cornelius One of Crestline’s most popular residents is coming back to the neighborhood. The new Piggly Wiggly supermarket in the Mountain Brook community has an anticipated opening date of May 31, company officials said. Owners Andy Virciglio and brothers Basim and Naseem Ajlouny hoped to re-open in Crestline Village after they had to shut down their store at the corner of Euclid Avenue and Oak Street in November 2014 because the landlord chose not to renew their lease. Piggly Wiggly had been tenants there for 30 years. A CVS/Pharmacy has since opened at that location. The newly built store is in the heart of Crestline Village between Church Street and Vine Street. “We were fortunate to be able to find this property,” Naseem Ajlouny said. “We’ve had good support from the city, from the board of education and school system and from residents. People were there to support us.” The old Crestline Pig didn’t go quietly before closing. A Facebook page called “Save the Pig” quickly earned thousands of “likes,” and community members gathered at the Emmet O’Neal Library to share memories of the store. “Community support has been humbling,” Ajlouny said. “They needed and wanted this store to come back.” Opening a new store in Crestline hasn’t been easy. The owners first had to find a location. Ajlouny said they worked with Mountain Brook resident Robert Jolly of Retail Specialists. “Robert put up a map, and I saw six or seven lots in a row and said, ‘Robert, start working on it,’” Ajlouny said. “Miller and Frances Gorrie were a big part of helping make this happen, too. They helped chart the course.”

2/25/16 2:05 PM

The owners ended up buying seven lots. On one of the parcels was a building known as the Girl Scout Hut, which the owners renovated and moved to a nearby lot. Construction was underway when an intentionally set fire on Jan. 11 temporarily halted progress. Four juveniles were identified and questioned about the fire shortly after that. Now, however, a new and improved version of The Pig is ready to rejoin the Crestline community. With 28,250 square feet, the new store is about 1½ times larger than the old store, company officials said. It’s also got more parking spaces, outdoor tables and energy-efficient LED lighting inside and out. The building, with architecture that borrows from elements of residential construction, has two levels. The supermarket is on the main floor; storage and offices are upstairs. Shoppers will find an emphasis on local, regional and organic products and more prepared foods, the owners said. “We’ve made great strides in identifying for shoppers what’s organic, what’s non-GMO, what’s gluten-free and what’s local,” Andy Virciglio said. The store will have Red Diamond coffee, tea and espresso machines, a milkshake machine and a salad bar. Company officials said the store’s meat case is twice as large as any in other Piggly Wiggly stores. Customers will find Alabama Gulf Seafood products, Certified Angus Beef and fresh, locally raised chickens. The store will have one of the largest craft beer selections in the state and an expanded wine section. Wine barrels were cut in half to decorate the wine bar, where customers can taste beer and wine or have consultations with staff members about selections. Growlers with the Piggly Wiggly logo will be for sale there, too. “We’re taking extra attention to

grow the wine section just as we have the craft beer section,” Basim Ajlouny said. The store will host beer and wine tastings, and an enhanced cheese section is right next to the beer and wine. The owners said they have scheduled deliveries outside of school hours since one of the store’s neighbors is Crestline Elementary. Naseem Ajlouny thinks customers will like the store’s new location, which is close to Mountain Brook City Hall and right next door to Smith’s Variety, which moved to Crestline Village from Mountain Brook Village last year. “CVS is the only national store in Crestline,” Ajlouny said. “Everything else is locally owned.” He said that after the old Piggly Wiggly closed, he and the other owners were eager to re-open in Crestline as soon as possible. “People get in shopping patterns,” he said. “We had to find a way to do it.” Ajlouny said that the Virciglio family has been in Crestline’s business community for about 37 years. “We’ve brought in Andy’s two sons, Austin and Andrew,” he said. The Crestline Pig will continue to be active in and supportive of its neighborhood, Ajlouny said. “We are a big community store,” he said. “You can’t help but have a community store because of how strong the community is here. That just doesn’t happen anywhere.” While shoppers likely will be eager to see what the new Pig has to offer, many were concerned about another issue. “People have asked if we’re going to bring back this person or that person who worked at the other store,” Ajlouny said. “I was able to hire the original manager, Ron Mitchell. You’ll see lots of familiar faces from the old store.” ❖

food/sports

OVER THE MOUNTAIN Journal

davis,

From page 36

basketball that’s fun and starts with the concept of being a great teammate,” Davis said. “We’re going to have an up-tempo style and challenge our guys to make our team better every day.” That’s basic coach-speak, but it also sounds a lot like the philosophy of ultra-successful Mountain Brook coach Bucky McMillan. Accepting the challenge of filling Gaydosh’s large shoes is former Vestavia wrestling star Monterrious “Tee” Adams. Adams had coached at Hewitt-Trussville and Oxford before answering the call from his alma mater. A Gaydosh protégé, he was a member of two state championship teams and won two individual crowns. “It’s an honor to come back and have the chance to build on the successes of Coach Gaydosh,” Adams said. “I hope I can bring a new wave of excitement to what’s already here. I consider myself at home and I’m ready to get to work.” Adams said his wrestling philosophy might be a shade different from his mentor’s. “We’ll bring in a bit of an attacking approach,” he explained. “I like to be aggressive in scoring points.” The new coach is quick to add that most of the changes will be on the margins. “It’s not like we have to be at square one and start over,” Adams

real,

From page 30

about 100 years old. The braised beef soup, which comes in a cup or a bowl, “is like boeuf bourguignon – it’s a fun dish,” Mims said. Side dishes aren’t just afterthoughts. Among the Real & Rosemary offerings are succotash with herb butter, roasted Brussels sprouts with butternut squash, charred carrots with thyme and corn polenta cakes. Kids’ menus often are heavy on the fried chicken finger-type of food, but Mims took extra care with her choices for children. The AB&J sandwich, her son’s favorite, is made with almond butter and house-made blueberry jam. Her daughter’s favorite is the spaghetti and meatballs. Pint-sized side dishes include polenta bites, zucchini salad with avocado pesto, and fresh fruit. The restaurant is open daily from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. Beer and wine are served all day, and cocktails join the party after 4 p.m. Mims said that although she’s a purist when it comes to food, that doesn’t mean she pushes candied kale for dessert. “People have loved our ice cream sandwiches, which are made with lemon-rosemary cookies from Pastry Arts and Mexican vanilla ice cream from Austin, Texas,” she said. Real & Rosemary also has a catering service. “We do box lunches and platters, and we can do events from 10 to sev-

said. “We’ll just go in and pick up where Coach Gaydosh left off and hopefully make things even better.” Vestavia’s athletic program has been long known for stability on its coaching staff – a continuity that has played a major role in its success. But the Rebel brass has had to fill four high-profile coaching positions in a relatively short time – boys soccer in 2014, baseball in 2015 and now basketball and wrestling in 2016. Vestavia soccer continues to be successful after the retirement of Rick Grammer, one of America’s winningest coaches in the sport. In baseball, Rebel assistant Jamie Harris was elevated to the top job following Tommy Walker’s resignation at the end of the 2015 season. Harris has clearly shown he’s up for the job; Vestavia entered the post-season as a favorite for the state 7A title. If Davis and Adams can follow that pattern, Rebel athletics should be in good shape for years to come. 1Rebel?....

While Vestavia officials were busy hiring coaches, the branding firm Knight Eady was earning up to $30,000 of taxpayer money for coming up with a new school logo to replace the Rebel Man mascot that is offensive to some in the community. Knight Eady, which promised to release the full brand package by next month, previewed the new Vestavia look with a single word: 1Rebel. Actually the number one merges eral hundred people,” she said. The menu soon will include dinners for four, Mims said, with a main dish and two sides. The restaurant at 1922 29th Ave. South was built in 1935 and formerly housed a dry cleaning business, she said. “We loved the exposed brick walls and trusses,” Mims said. “Redoing the floor was a three-day process. We ground the top layer, stenciled it, and then painted and sealed it. The pattern matches the fabric on the booths’ seat cushions.” Windows were lowered to bring in more light. Carlson made the coat rack, and the front door is from an old plantation home, she said.

Mims said she started planning Real & Rosemary about a year ago and opened it in March with business partner Nate Carlson, above.

with the “R” in Rebel to perhaps suggest Vestavia solidarity. How popular the logo will be with Rebel boosters, students and alumni is an open question. “It looks like a big waste of money to me,” said a 1970s Vestavia alumnus who asked not to be identified. “The logo looks like the “R” from Russell Athletics and took Rebels to a singular word. Maybe they should call us the Vestavia Cavemen because we caved on the issue, but I’m sure that would be found offensive too. I’m not a fan of the change but life will go on.” Even some present Vestavia students questioned whether the school was getting its money’s worth. “The school spent so much money on the new logo, I felt like they could have gotten something better,” said a Rebel senior who also asked not to be identified. “I think a student could have done that in about two minutes. It just looks like a font on a word document with the ‘1’ as a different color. It’s nothing special and a waste of money.” We should probably all suspend judgment until Knight Eady’s full package is made public. In the meantime, the Vestavia community would do well to remember that there is much more to the school’s integrity and tradition than any mascot or logo could ever hope to symbolize. And it doesn’t need a slick marketing campaign as a reminder. ❖ Outside, there’s seating on the patio, where one wall has a mural. “That mural is the most Instagrammed thing about the restaurant,” Mims said. Of course, planters have been filled with rosemary. Mims said she chose Homewood as the restaurant’s location because it’s centrally located for people who live in the Birmingham area. Customers and fellow business owners have been welcoming, she said. “It’s been fun to meet all our neighbors in the business community,” Mims said. She hopes Real & Rosemary will appeal to all ages. “This is a place for the whole family, for professional meetings, for women’s groups,” she said. “It’s not just the food – it’s who you share it with.” Mims said she and her husband like encouraging Jemma and Caleb to be adventurous eaters. “We’ve worked to introduce a wide variety of food to our children,” she said. “People deem some food ‘kid food.’ If my daughter wants a bite of something off my plate, I’ll give it to her.” Their mother’s enthusiasm for the new restaurant has been catching. “Jemma said she needed a ‘rosemary dress’ for our grand opening,” Mims said. “We got a fabric printed with our logo for her to wear. I just wanted to make her happy.” For more information, visit realandrosemary.com or check out the restaurant on Facebook, Instagram, Pinterest and Twitter. ❖

Thursday, May 5, 2016 • 33

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Lion Tamers

Briarwood Wins Class 6A Girls Title By Lee Davis

The Briarwood girls tennis team used two victories in singles matches to earn the state 6A crown at the Mobile Tennis Center last Friday. The Lady Lions totaled 58 points to edge out runner-up Walker’s 50 total.

Freshman Callie Ware defeated Decatur’s Emily Overbee 6-3, 6-2 to win the number two singles. Senior Frannie Ware defeated Walker’s Mary Ann Wolfe 6-2, 6-3 to earn the victory in the number four seed. In number five singles, Briarwood’s Katelyn Bussey lost to Cullman’s Emily

The Lady Lions totaled 58 points to edge out runner-up Walker’s 50 total to earn the state 6A crown at the Mobile Tennis Center last Friday. Front, from left: Katelyn Bussey, Callie Ware, Jud Tarence, Frannie Ware and Keeton Cross. Back: Coach Brandon Snipes, coach Jeremy Mears, Laura Herren, Kateleigh Calloway, Grace Lovell, Grayson Emerson, Holly Hancock and coach Bubba Bussey.

Graves 7-6, 1-6, 6-4. The number one seed championship match between Briarwood’s Jud Tarence and defending Class 6A individual champion Lilly Holmes of Florence was postponed until Tuesday. Tarence had participated in four matches Friday and under Alabama High School Athletic Association rules could not play in a fifth match. In number one doubles, Briarwood’s Kateleigh Calloway and Tarence lost to Ruth Roberts and Holmes of Florence 5-7, 6-1, 6-2. ❖

OVER THE MOUNTAIN Journal

Berry Girls Take First Metro South Softball Title

Photo special to the Journal

34 • Thursday, May 5, 2016

The Berry Middle School girls’ softball team won its first Metro South Tournament on April 9, defeating Bragg Middle School 6-5 in extra innings at Spain Park High School. In the championship game, Berry rode out to an early 4-0 lead, but Bragg cut the deficit to 4-3 in the top of the sixth and tied the game in the seventh, forcing the game into international tie breaker rules. In the top of the eighth, Bragg scored a run to take a 5-4 lead. Berry tied the game in the bottom of the inning on a wild pitch and Mackenzie Thompson hit a walk-off double with runners on second and third to win the game.

tennis,

Scherzburg and Evan Pruett. In number three doubles, the team of Chase Robinett and Andrew Karcher edged Sam Johnson and Coleman of Spain Park 6-1, 6-0. The decisiveness of the final victory belied what had been a close match before the last day. “Even though we won by a large margin, we only had a five point lead going into the final round,” Spartan coach Susan Farlow said. “We were able to beat them (McGill) in every headto-head position at the end.” Mountain Brook finished the season undefeated and earned its second consecutive state title and fourth in eight years. “Needless to say, it was a great season,” Farlow said. “Our boys played tough all year and especially in the state tournament.”

Vestavia Hills Girls Slip by Mountain Brook

Vestavia’s girls earned their title with a 42-40 win over Mountain Brook. Spain Park was fifth with 12 points. Lady Rebel netters won three singles crowns and a doubles championship to slip by the Lady Spartans. The eventual champions trailed Mountain

Photo special to the Journal

From page 36

Members of the Lady Spartans tennis team are, front, from left: Margaret Polk, Margaret Anne Clark, Margaret Shufflebarger, Helen Catherine Darby, Cele Sullivan and Ellie Polk. Back: Assistant coach Wally Nall, Kate Bumgarner, Sarah Cooper, Kathryn Sours, Maggie Duggan, Morgan Jenkins, faculty rep. Glenn Lamar and head coach Susan Farlow.

Brook on the final day before bouncing back to claim the crown. “We knew winning was in reach if we all came together and that’s exactly what we did,” Vestavia coach Shelley Sumner said. “We were truly a team and not a group of individuals. That was the difference for this group. Georgia Moros defeated McGill’s Hallet DeMouy 6-1, 6-2 in number three singles. Maggie Nelson edged Mountain Brook’s

Morgan Jenkins 4-6, 6-3, 6-0 to win number five singles. Harper Anderson defeated Huntsville’s Laura Walker 6-3, 6-3 to win the number six singles. Mountain Brook freshman Margaret Polk won the number one singles crown with a 6-1, 6-0 sweep of Fairhope’s Caroline Adams. “It meant a lot to win number one singles as a freshman,” Polk said. “If I work hard, maybe I can win three more.”

Seventh-grader Annabelle Widra pitched every inning for the Jaguars during the tournament, giving up just 14 hits, three earned runs and one walk while striking out 30 in 21 innings. She finished 4-0 for the tournament. Eighth-grader Lindsay Parker led Berry offensively, going 8-11 with one double, five runs scored and four runs batted in. Parker and Widra were named to the All-Metro South Conference team. Berry finished 23-5 on the season, including an 8-3 record in conference play. ❖

Polk’s teammate Sarah Cooper lost to Huntsville’s Ashley Cooks in the number two singles 6-2, 4-6, 6-1. Mountain Brook’s Cele Sullivan defeated Vestavia’s Sage Ellis 6-2, 6-3 to win the number four singles title. In number three doubles play, Moros and Nelson combined to defeat Huntsville’s Claudia Stephens and Emily Felix 6-1, 6-1. Spain Park’s Daryn Ellison and Sidney Ellison defeated Haley Harmon and Nelson 6-2, 4-6, 6-3. Mountain Brook’s pair of Sarah Cooper and Sullivan defeated McGill’s Helen Ann Cornell and DeMouy 6-1, 6-4. Vestavia completed the year undefeated. “From day one our goal was to win the state championship,” Sumner said. “We got a tough draw in the state tournament but our girls decided that in order to be the best, we had to beat the best. The way we came back to overcome Mountain Brook the second day was an example of that attitude. This is a very special group.” The state title was Vestavia’s first since 2013. Farlow was proud of her team’s second place finish. “Our only regular season loss was to Vestavia,” she said. “Margaret Polk was a great addition for us. Cele (Sullivan) won in both singles and doubles as a junior so we’ll be happy to have her back next year.” But for now, the Spartans boys and the Rebel girls are number one. ❖

MAY 20-22 BARBERMOTORSPORTS PARK BARBERMOTORSPORTS.COM

Storm Chaser

Oak Mountain Rallies to Upset Vestavia Hills By Lee Davis A pair of storms dominated the Class 7A second round baseball playoff between heavily favored Vestavia Hills and Oak Mountain. The first involved the weather. The second involved the underdog Eagles. After losing Friday’s opener in a game shortened by a five-hour rain delay, Oak Mountain rallied for two dramatic victories Saturday to advance to the playoff’s third round. The Eagles tied the series with a 4-0 shutout victory in the first game and then rallied from a two-run deficit in game three to take a 5-4 triumph. Coach Jamie Harris’ Rebels took command of the deciding game early with a 4-2 lead, thanks in part to Nathan Hospes’ two-run homer in the second inning. “At times we looked dead in the water,” Oak Mountain coach Derek Irons said later. “It looked like we dug ourselves a hole. But we just kept fighting and fighting and found a way to do it.” Did they ever. Not known as a power hitting team, Oak Mountain’s rally began with John McDonald’s home run deep over the left field wall of Sammy Dunn Field, cutting the margin to 4-3. “I saw the pitch come right at me and break inside, so I put the swing on it,” McDonald said.

The Eagles got another break when a Vestavia throwing error scored Caleb Floyd. A sacrifice fly by Jake Elkins brought home the go-ahead run in the sixth inning. On the other side, Oak Mountain pitcher Gene Hurst – who took the loss on the previous evening – pitched middle inning relief and kept Vestavia from adding to its run total. Floyd came to the mound in the seventh inning to shut down the Rebels’ last bid for victory. “All the work we did at the beginning of the year is paying off now,” said Floyd. “It was a great team effort. Our guys did a great job of closing it at the end.” Oak Mountain moves on to the next round with a best-of-three series with Hewitt-Trussville. The Rebels end their season with a 29-6 record. The series opener on Friday was disrupted by severe rain and hail. Vestavia earned a 4-0 win in a contest called after only four innings. Chris Fisher sparked the Rebels with three hits and Braxton Arnold earned two RBIs. Caden Lemons pitched a two hitter while fanning three Eagle batters. In other Class 7A play, red-hot Hewitt-Trussville swept Hoover by scores of 18-4 and 11-7. The first game began Friday and was completed Saturday due to the weather. But even a delay couldn’t stop

18th AnnuAl

Mountain Brook Sports Corporation

Golf tournAment Wednesday, May 18, 2016 Highland Park Golf Course

$250.00 per player includes lunch & range balls or $1000 Sponsorships includes foursome, lunch & range balls

Please make your tax-deductible contribution payable to: Mountain Brook Sports Corp. Tax Id. 63-119-6540

Proceeds will benefit athletic programs at Mountain Brook High and Junior High Schools. Note that each participant may designate the sport they want to receive the contribution. List the name of the program on your check and the funds will be earmarked. SHOTGUN STARTS AT 8:00 A.M. & 1:00 P.M. Lunch will begin at 11:30. Tourney will be a scramble format.

MOUNTAIN BROOK SPORTS CORPORATION c/o Mike Morrison / Mountain Brook Sporting Goods MBSport@bellsouth.net 66 Church Street, Mountain Brook, AL 35213

Thursday, May 5, 2016 • 35

sports the blazing Huskie bats. Ty Robinson led Hoover in the second game with three hits and three RBIs. Hewitt’s Jamison Stennis closed the deal in the second game with a grand-slam homer in the eighth inning. Hoover finished the season 28-22. In Class 6A play, Homewood was eliminated by Oxford 4-3 in the third game of a three-game set played Saturday at the Yellow Jackets’ home field. The Patriots took a 3-0 lead in the top of the second inning before Oxford rallied to tie the score in the bottom of the frame. The Patriots opened the series Friday with a 2-1 victory. John Wildman and Jake Burdeshaw each had RBIs and Carson Griffis earned the win on the mound. Homewood started strongly in the second game, opening the scoring with Jacob Patton’s sacrifice fly. Jacob Fitts scored off of a wild pitch to give the Patriots a 2-0 advantage. Oxford responded with 14 runs, including 11 in the seventh inning. ❖

Journal file photo by Marvin Gentry

OVER THE MOUNTAIN Journal

After beating Vestavia in three games last weekend, Caleb Floyd and his Oak Mountain teammates move on to the next round with a best-of-three series with Hewitt-Trussville.

OVER THE MOUNTAIN Journal

Thursday, May 5, 2016

Sports

Storm Chaser Oak Mountain Rallies to Upset Vestavia Hills Page 35

Playing Doubles

lee davis

Of Coaches and Logos

Spartan Boys, Rebel Girls Take Class 7A Tennis Titles

Times of Change Come to Vestavia

See tennis, page 34

Lion Tamers: Briarwood Wins Class 6A Girls Title.... Page 34

The Mountain Brook boys tennis team claimed the 7A title with 53 points, easily outdistancing runner up McGill-Toolen. The Spartans won four of the six singles titles and swept all three doubles matches. Team members, from left: Andrew Karcher, Chase Robinett, David Faulkner, Yates Jackson, Leo Styslinger, Paul Jones, Peter Hartman and Seth Cohen.

Photo special to the Journal

Decatur’s Almon Tennis Center turned out to be a friendly venue for the Mountain Brook boys and Vestavia Hills girls tennis teams. The Spartan boys and Rebel girls turned in impressive performances in clinching their respective championships in the state Class 7A meet April 26. Mountain Brook claimed the title with 53 points, easily outdistancing runner up McGill-Toolen’s 22 total. Spain Park was fourth with 18 points. The Spartans won four of the six singles titles and swept all three doubles matches. David Faulkner won the number two seed with a 6-1, 7-5 victory over McGill’s Hallet Green. Yates Jackson claimed the number three seed with a 6-1, 6-0 triumph over Huntsville’s Connor Coots. Seth Cohen earned the number five singles championship with a 6-1, 6-1 win against McGill’s Jeffery Schock. Leo Styslinger defeated Spain Park’s Ryan Stafford 6-1, 6-2. Another Jaguar, Conner Coleman, claimed the number four seed title with a 6-3, 6-2 win over Enterprise’s Brett Blackburn. In number one doubles, the duo of Peter Hartman and Jackson defeated the Huntsville team of Jachym Bezouska and Ethan Forbes 6-2, 6-2. The number two doubles featured Paul Jones and Faulkner in a 6-0, 6-1 win over Enterprise’s Christopher

Photo special to the Journal

By Lee Davis

Vestavia beat Mountain Brook to claim the Rebels first state title since 2013. Front, from left: Maggie Nelson, Rebecca Pearlman, Hannah Nelson and Haley Harmon. Back: Coach Shelley Sumner, Margaret Saar, Wendy Jiang, Harper Anderson, Georgia Morros, Carly Beth Yarbrough, Elizabeth Ledbetter, Maggie Taylor and coach Joey Francis.

The news at Vestavia Hills last week was all about two coaches and one new logo. First, the good news. Rebel athletic director Jeff Segars moved swiftly and decisively with the recommendation to the Board of Education to hire two new coaches to direct Vestavia’s boys basketball and wrestling programs. In both cases Segars was replacing veteran coaches with long-time records for success. The basketball vacancy occurred after the retirement of George Hatchett, who directed the program for three decades and earned two state championships. The fact that Vestavia had little basketball tradition before Hatchett took over the helm made his record all the more impressive. If anything, the wrestling hire was even more difficult. Steve Gaydosh retired after leading the Rebel program to 12 state championships and eight runner-up finishes in 34 years at Limerock Road. Segars went outside the Vestavia family to find a basketball coach, while for the wrestling coach position he stayed closer to home. Patrick Davis was tapped for the basketball job. Davis compiled a 12186 worksheet at Thompson, including three area titles and a regional playoff appearance. The Birmingham Tipoff Club named him Metro Area Coach of the Year in 2013. Davis told media outlets he planned to bring an exciting style to the Rebel offense. “We’re going to play a brand of See davis, page 33

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