Over the Mountain Journal Aug. 11, 2011 issue by Over the Mountain Journal

OVER THE MOUNTAIN

J O U R N A L THE SUBURBAN NEWSPAPER FOR MOUNTAIN BROOK, HOMEWOOD, VESTAVIA HILLS, HOOVER, AND NORTH SHELBY COUNTY AUGUST 11, 2011

Trunk Show

ZooGala 2011 Will Have Tons of Fun A giant-sized adventure awaits guests at the Birmingham Zoo’s annual fundraiser. Ready to take a walk on the wild side at the Sept. 17 event at the new Trails of Africa exhibit are, from left: Jesse S. Vogtle Jr., Robin Sparks Davis, Lee O. Perry, Misti S. Weaver, Amy M. Jackson and Wally Nall III. See About Town, page 4.

Cahaba Heights will soon have new trees to replace some of the many uprooted by the April 27 tornado. Mary Jean Archer, above, is donating trees in memory of her father. The dogwoods, used at Mary Jean’s daughter’s wedding, were stored by Micheal Dyer, right, of Uncut Flowers. See Life, page 8.

The Literacy Council continued its 2011 Signature Series with a recent reception honoring author Adam Ross. Guests were able to meet the young author at the event, held at the Altadena Road home of Dr. Rob Mason and Katie Rochester. See Social, page 10.

Whether it’s a total home makeover like the one Tracy Gwaltney of Vestavia Hills just completed or a one-room project like Karen Bush’s Mountain Brook kitchen, above, OTM families are constantly finding ways to make their houses even more appealing. Need ideas? See our Home Improvement Special Section, starting on page 20.

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CONTENTS/OPINION

OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL

MURPHY’S LAW

Back to School: Highlands School ready to welcome students back Aug. 12 for open house. See schools, page 23.

C B P S

OTMJ.COM

heck out more before and after pictures from our home renovations features on pages 21-22. rowse through more photos from the area’s biggest and best social events.

lan your evenings and weekends with our extended online calendar.

end us your news. Getting married or recently engaged? Send us your announcement online. Just click on “news, info & issues” and fill out the form. Got other news to share? Click on “got news,” and submit the form to share events, people news, social events and more.

ind us on Facebook and follow us on Twitter for updates on what’s going on at the Journal.

In our next issue, get ready for some high school football with our Football Preview, plus see the hottest looks in fall fashions.

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

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WEDDINGS HOME SCHOOLS SPORTS

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JOU RNAL

18 20 23 28

August 11, 2011

Publisher: Maury Wald Editor: Laura McAlister Features Writer: Donna Cornelius Office Manager: Christy Wald Editorial Assistant: Stacie Galbraith Sports: Lee Davis Contributors: Susan Murphy, Bones Long, Cary Estes, June Mathews, Emil Wald, Marvin Gentry Advertising Sales: Suzanne Wald, Julie Trammell Edwards, Tommy Wald Editorial Intern: Matthew Terwilliger Vol. 20, No. 15

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

Bat’ter Up

no idea where they put it all. They’re no bigger than need a bat. Not a really annoying minute. a baseball bat, I try to be a live-and-let-live kind of person, circle although from the of life and all that, but my patience is wearing thin. size of this season’s I could tolerate the occasional itching, but when mosquitoes I might be you’re toting around malaria or West Nile virus, it able to belt a few of them over the fence line. puts a strain on my hospitality. Other than being food for really fast frogs and No, what I really need is bats, I can’t figure what mosquitoes bring to the a furry, bug-eating critcircle anyway. I realize I’m not in charge of all ter. that, but I’m truly drawing a blank. Maybe I’m just The mosquitoes in my cranky because I have very little experience being on yard have been particuSusan Murphy this end of the food chain. I’ll bet wildebeest feel the larly thick this year. Great same way about lions. clouds of the winged pests So how do I get rid of the mosquito menace? I dive bomb me whenever I go out the front door. I don’t want to spray a blanket strap on one of those whirring of insecticide in the backyard bug repellers every time I run I hate to speak ill of any spe- because that’s where I breathe, out to check the mailbox or fill the bird feeder and still cies, but doggone it, mosqui- as well. I don’t want to rouend up with welts on my legs. tinely douse myself in bug toes are relentless, insidious Maybe it’s just me. I’ve repellant, either, lest I kill off always been a mosquito magmy brain cells along with the creatures, searching out the net. In an otherwise similar hovering hordes. There has to most tender bits to bite, the crowd, bugs choose to bite be a more natural way to cull me. A friend once said it must the mosquito herd. backs of my knees, the skin be because I’m so sweet, like The frogs in my fake pond between my fingers, like I’m are doing all they can, slurpit’s a compliment, like the mosquitoes are 8-year-old and snapping at all hours, the mosquito version of an all- ing boys trying to get my attenand still the little devils are you-can-eat buffet. tion by pulling my pigtails. swarming around their slipIt’s nice to be noticed, of pery little heads. My frogs course, but I don’t need to be need reinforcements, a crew to that kind of popular. take over the night shift. They need a bat. Other summers, I’ve been able to hold off the flyBats bring their own problems, of course, not the ing squadrons with candlelight and bug repellant, but least of which is the fear that they’ll inadvertently fly this season the mosquitoes are offhandedly rejectinto my hair. But if we each stick to our respective ing my Off and sneering at my citronella. They’re sleep schedules, I might not see my bat at all. coming up through the floor slats in my screened-in I’ll buy him a cozy little bat house, with a comporch. They’re sneaking in over the transom when I fortable perch where he can put his feet up (literally) open the door the least little crack, waiting to pounce at the end of a hard night’s work. He’ll have a plentiwhile I’m sleeping or folding the laundry. ful food source. I won’t have to brush him or cut his I hate to speak ill of any species, but doggone it, toenails or take him to the vet. It could all work out mosquitoes are relentless, insidious creatures, search- just fine. ing out the most tender bits to bite, the backs of my I need a bat, a furry little night-flying helper. knees, the skin between my fingers, like I’m the But if that doesn’t work, I’ll haul out the Louisville mosquito version of an all-you-can-eat buffet. I have Slugger. ❖

OVER THE MOUNTAIN VIEWS

What do you think about the Barons proposed move to downtown?

“If they do decide to build a new ball park our skate park on First Avenue South would be lost so I can’t say I’m for the change.”

“Moving to Birmingham would be a more natural fit considering they are the Birmingham Barons, so I’m for it.”

“I have a lot of great memories at Regions Park, but I’m sure moving would help both the Barons and the city of Birmingham.”

Ben Gazzini Hoover

Austin Dennis Vestavia Hills

Stephen Dennis Vestavia Hills

“(If the Barons move) we would have to move out of our current business location, but at the end of the day it’s a good choice and I’m happy for the Barons.” Lori Harris Hoover

ABOUT TOWN

OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL

Food, Football Event Aids Injured Children

Boiling ’N’ Bragging, a football kickoff event that’s a benefit for Children’s of Alabama, is set for Aug. 13 at Otey’s Tavern. The third annual party is hosted by Rotary District 6860 and the Rotaract Club of Shelby County. Football enthusiasts are invited to an all-you-can-eat seafood boil and cookout. The event includes live music by Sean “Rockstar” Heniger and The Hurlers, special guest Lance Taylor from WJOX’s Roundtable, hourly activities for kids and adults and $1 beer specials from 6 to 9 p.m. All proceeds will benefit Critical Care Transport at Children’s of Alabama. Guests are encouraged to wear their team colors. Tickets are $20 in advance and $25 at the door; kids ages 10 and under get in free. To register online, visit www.childrensal.org/events. For sponsorship opportunities or information, contact misty. farmer@childrensal.org or call 939-9956.

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Dickerson, Mike Donnelly, Mike Goodrich, Jim Gorrie, Miller Gorrie, Beau Grenier, Chris Harmon, Jim Hughey, Sandy Killion, Benny LaRussa, Sherrie LeMier, Coleman Loper, Matt Lusco, Gordon Martin, Claude Nielsen, Craft O’Neal, Alan Register, David Silverstein, Stan Starnes, Lee Styslinger III, Lee Thuston and Raymond Watts. For more information about the Maestro’s Ball, call Ashley Blomeyer at 314-6917. ❖

Making plans for the Maestro’s Ball are, from left: hosts Fred and Connie McCallum and committee chairmen Dalton Blankenship and James McManus. Photo special to the Journal

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Maestro’s Ball Is Symphony Fundraiser

The Alabama Symphony Orchestra and music director Justin Brown will present the Maestro’s Ball, hosted by Connie and Fred McCallum, Sept. 9 at UAB’s Alys Stephens Center. The ball is the ASO’s largest fundraising event. Its proceeds support the ASO’s artistic, educational and outreach programs. The evening will begin with a champagne reception in the ASC lobby at 6 p.m. with chamber music by Alabama Symphony Youth Orchestra members. A 7 p.m. concert in the Jemison Concert Hall will feature guest pianist Alfredo Arjona playing Falla’s “Nights in the Gardens of Spain” with Maestro Brown conducting. At 8 p.m., patrons will have dinner on the ASC grounds catered by Idie and Chris Hastings of Hot and Hot Fish Club with decorations by Sybil Sylvester of Wildflower Designs. The 2011 Maestro’s Ball Committee members are chairman Dalton Blankenship, Dell Brooke, Maggie Brooke, Ann Chambliss, Marilyn Dixon, Kelley Fitzpatrick, Brenda Hackney, Kathryn Harbert, Idie Hastings, Sheryl Kimerling, Lynn LaRussa, April McAnnally, Gale McManus, Lisa Miller, Penny Page, Ellen Smith, Tracy Sproule, Mary Laura Stagno, Sybil Sylvester, Lissa Tyson and Ellen Walker. Corporate Committee members are chairman James McManus, Robert Aland, Dell Brooke, Dixon Brooke, Will Brooke, David Brown, Tony Davis, Jay

�� National Multiple Sclerosis Society Alabama-Mississippi Chapter

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METRO

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ABOUT TOWN

Broadway show to Birmingham for one night only. Proceeds will benefit the program, which has a goal of early diagnosis and an eventual cure. Honored during the evening will be Dr. Ronald Alvarez, Dr. Mack Barnes, Dr. Helen Krontiras, Dr. Jacob Estes, program coordinator Beverly Martin, genetic counselor Lynn Hold and nurse practitioners Laura Jones and Julie Whatley. Jenny Allen is a journalist, actress and stand-up comedian married to cartoonist Jules Feiffer. For tickets, visit www.nlovca. org.

Steeple Arts Academy Celebrates 75 Years

Steeple Arts Academy of Dance is called the “Dance Center of Mountain Brook since 1935” and a brief look at history shows this to be true. Steeple Arts, formerly known as “The Lola Mae Jones School of Dance” was, for 23 years, located “Upstairs over Browdy’s” in one of the two buildings in Mountain Brook Village at that time. It was to this studio that children of Mountain Brook and surrounding areas came to take classes in ballet, tap, jazz and ballroom. In 1958, Mrs. Jones and her daughter, Lola Mae Coates, moved their School of Dance into the Red Church Building on Church Street, and re-named the School “Steeple Arts Academy of Dance.” In 1971, Lola Mae Coates took over the position of director of Steeple Arts. With her own Steeple Arts Ballet Company, Lola Mae created scores of original ballets which were performed throughout the Southeast. In the late 1960’s, Mrs. Coates gave up her company in order to devote her full attention to the students at Steeple Arts. Today the tradition continues under third generation Director, her daughter, Deanny Coates Hardy, above. Deanny has studied all styles of dance under her mother (since age 2 1/2) and with well known teachers and choreographers in New York. She is a graduate of Mountain Brook High School, where she was a member of the “Dorians” dance team. As a graduate of the University of Mississippi, she was also a member of the “Rebelettes” dance team. Deanny is well known for her expertise in dance team technique which is taught in the Dance Team Prep classes. A large percentage of members performing with Mountain Brook Dorians and Spartanettes have been taught and coached by “Miss Deanny.” Her family is proud to see her carry on the principles and traditions of Steeple Arts as she is moving it into the 4th generation of students! Steeple Arts stresses classic training in ballet, jazz, and tap for all ages. Along with their dance training, students are taught grace, poise and social amenities. Most importantly, they are taught to “hold their pretty heads high, have self-conﬁdence and be proud of themselves!” In addition to traditional classes in the major disciplines, Steeple Arts teaches current hip hop classes and dance team training. Also, Miss Deanny continues the long standing tradition of 6th grade Ballroom for boys and girls. Steeple Arts has added ﬁtness to it’s routine in 2011, offering personal training in the new Studio 3, as well as Zumba and ballet classes for adults. This Season of 2011marks the 75th Anniversary of Steeple Arts, located at 36 Church Street, Crestline and their phone number is 871-5893.

OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL

Ready to take a walk on the wild side at ZooGala 2011 are, from left: Jesse S. Vogtle Jr., Robin Sparks Davis, Lee O. Perry, Misti S. Weaver, Photo special to the Journal Amy M. Jackson and Wally Nall III.

Trails of Africa Is ZooGala Setting

The Birmingham Zoo will host its largest fundraising event, ZooGala 2011, Sept. 17 at 6:30 p.m. Chairmen of this year’s event, sponsored by IberiaBank, are Lee O. Perry, Misti S. Weaver and Amy M. Jackson. ZooGala features zoo residents, including elephants, a red fox, serval, great horned owl and other animals. Guests will enjoy cocktails, dinner, live music and animal walkabouts in an African wonderland. All proceeds will go toward the zoo’s operational efforts. The black tie-optional affair will be in the zoo’s signature exhibit, Trails of Africa. Cocktails begin at 6:30 p.m. in the Zoo’s Junior League of Birmingham-Hugh Kaul Children’s Zoo. Afterward, guests will be transported by train on the zoo’s locomotives, the Red Diamond Express and the Birmingham Zoo Express, to a seated dinner beginning at 8 p.m. ZooGala 2011 features live entertainment by Lava Lamp, menu

and decorations by Kathy G & Co. and jewelry by Empire Diamonds. During the evening, guests can look forward to special appearances by Bulwagi, Callee and Ajani, three of the zoo’s African bull elephants and residents of the Trails of Africa. For more information or to buy tickets, visit www. birminghamzoo.com, email kvaughn@birminghamzoo.com or call 397-3861.

Benefit Features Stand-up Comic

Jenny Allen’s “I Got Sick Then I Got Better” comic riff on one woman’s battle with cancer is coming to the Alys Stephens Center Sept. 1 at 7 p.m. The Lynne Cohen and Norma Jenny Allen Livingston Preventive Care Program at UAB will bring this one-woman

Nominations Open For ‘Moms Rock’

BirminghamMommy.com will accept nominations Aug. 15-31 for its second annual Moms Rock contest and event. To nominate a mom you know, visit www.birminghammommy. com and fill out the nomination form. Ten finalists will be chosen from the nominees, and the winner will be selected via reader voting Sept. 1-14 at the website. A grand prize will be awarded to the winning mommy at the second annual Moms Rock event Sept. 15 from 6 to 9 p.m. at the Plaza at McWane Science Center. The evening includes a live band, nitrous oxide drinks, hors d’ouevres, henna tattoos, chair massages, swag bags and T-shirts. For more information, visit www.birminghammommy.com.

Taste of Birmingham Is Culinary Showcase

Birmingham culinary teams will show off their talents Aug. 25 from 6 to 9 p.m. for the first Taste of Birmingham gala benefiting the Birmingham Boys Choir and Children’s of Alabama. Presented by Buffalo Rock Co., the event at The Club will offer a wide array of food samples from a variety of local establishments, such as daniel george, Satterfield’s �� and The View, with chef host Chris Kennedy. Other participants include �� DoDiYo’s, Flip Burger Boutique, �� The Gardens Cafe by Kathy G, Silvertron Cafe and Olexa’s. Wines �� from Ozan Vineyards will be �� served. Representatives of the Boys ��

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Choir and Children’s of Alabama and delegates from the sponsors will tally votes on the food and wine offered throughout the evening. The winner will receive the inaugural “Taster’s Choice” award engraved by Bob Rosser. Shaun Pezant and Charlie Giambrone will kick off the entertainment, and the Boys Choir will perform. Arrangements will be created by Lisa Abele Venable of Perfectly Petaled and Harmony Landing. Committee members include Phyllis and John Pelham, Betsy Clark, Joel Megginson, Michael Rumore, Kristyn Bara, Jack Mann, Corey Bush, David Walker, Wynne Speir, all of Children’s of Alabama, and Susan Simon and Ken Berg from the Birmingham Boys Choir. For reservations, visit www. thetasteofbirmingham.com or call 803-3449.

BBQ Chefs Compete at Stokin’ the Fire

Sloss Furnaces National Historic Landmark will host the seventh annual Stokin’ the Fire BBQ Festival Aug. 20 from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. at Sloss Furnaces. A world-class barbecue competition will be the highlight of the event. The contest includes more than 50 local all-amateur teams. Entrants compete in two divisions: Backyard Grillers, graded by volunteer and KCBS judges, and People’s Choice, judged by the public. In addition to the barbecue battles, the festival includes demonstrations by the Sloss Furnaces metal arts staff, a kids’ zone and beer sampling from the Free the Hops cook team. Musical performers are Culture Dred, New Grass Troubadours and The Rhythms. The Association of Cajun Music Enthusiasts will offer dancing demonstrations while featuring music from Lil’ Malcolm and the Zydeco House Rockers. Barbecue sampling for the People’s Choice competition will be from noon to 5 p.m. Proceeds will benefit the Sloss Furnaces Foundation and victims of the April 27 tornados. VIP tickets are available. For more information on the festival or to order tickets, visit slossfurnaces.com/stokin or call 3241911. ❖

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Cooking up plans for the first Taste of Birmingham are, from left: Corey Bush, committee member, Allison Cambre and Chef Chris Kennedy of The Club’s The View, Chef Cullen Simon and Ken Berg of the Photo special to the Journal Birmingham Boys Choir.

OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL

THURSDAY, AUGUST 11, 2011 • 5

ABOUT TOWN e-mail cjohnson@greystonecc.com to request a registration form. The event is held annually in memory of Lori Johnson, a healthy woman unaware of the signs and symptoms of ovarian cancer, which led to her stage 4 diagnoses. Proceeds benefit the Norma Livingston Ovarian Cancer Foundation.

Stephens Center Hosts Musician Ben Folds Making plans for Casino Cabaret at Virginia Samford Theatre are, from left, front: Betsy Henle and Patty McDonald. Back: Cathy Gilmore, Leslie Wampol, Jan Hunter as Elvis, Betty McMahon, Libby Suttle and Photo special to the Journal Helen Mills.

Theatre Will Host Casino Cabaret

The historic Virginia Samford Theatre will be transformed into a Las Vegas-style casino Aug. 20 from 7:30 to 10 p.m. Guests will be greeted by “Elvis” and can enjoy a variety of gaming tables on the Mainstage and in the Martha Moore Sykes Studio. Entertainment throughout the evening will star Patty McDonald singing “Diamonds Are a Girl’s Best Friend,” the Birmingham Sugar Babies and Vegas-style song selections from VST performers Kristi Tingle Higginbotham, Jan Hunter, Lonnie Parsons and Lucas Pepke. Caterer Kay Reed from Café IZ will serve snacks and desserts such as Roulette Roulage and Cirque de Soleil lemon meringue clouds. Guests will have the opportunity to win Alabama, Auburn and UAB football tickets and other prizes at the event, which raises funds for the historic landmark theatre.

For more information and tickets, call the VST at 251-1206 or visit www.virginiasamfordtheatre. org.

Lori Johnson Run Set for Aug. 13

The seventh annual Lori Johnson Fun Run will be Aug. 13 at Greystone Golf and Country Club. Registration is from 7 to 7:30 a.m. The 5K begins at 8 a.m.; the one mile fun run starts at 9 a.m. Overall winners receive cash and prizes. Winners of each age group will also receive awards. All children participating in the fun run will receive medallions as they cross the finish line. Mistress of ceremonies Beth Shelburne, a Fox 6 Evening News anchor, will kick off the race. After the race, there will be food, pool games, entertainment and fun for the entire family. Register at www.active.com or

The UAB Alys Stephens Center will present An Evening with Ben Folds” Aug. 20. The event includes a free preparty at 6:30 p.m. with live music from the Rev. Johnson and the Modern Sun, food for sale from the First Market’s Yellow Bicycle and drink specials. The 8 p.m. show is a backto-school event co-presented with UAB’s Office of Student Involvement Blaze Productions in

the center’s Jemison Concert Hall. Tickets are $40; UAB student tickets are $20. A limited number of special VIP meet-and-greet tickets are available. Call 975-2787 or visit www.AlysStephens.org for more information. The show is part of the Davis Architects “Music We Love” series. Folds is a singer-songwriter and multi-instrumentalist. He first found mainstream success as the leader of the critically acclaimed, platinumselling group Ben Folds Five.

BBG Junior Board Mixes It Up

The Birmingham Botanical Gardens’ Junior Board will host Mint Mixology, a class that will teach participants how to make the perfect mint julep or mojito, Aug. 18. For more information and to register, visit www.bbgardens. org/classes or call 414-3958. ❖

30th Annual

New works by Gallery Artist Donna Chieves

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I Love America ��

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Summer Celebration Series

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and Vestavia Hills Parks and Recreation � Bring�your� ir� a h �c n own�law or�blanket�

at Wald Park

F r i d a y , A u g us t 12

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Concess ions� Avail�� able�for�� Purchase �

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Free Swimming 6:30-7:30 PM Children’s Activities by First Baptist Church of Birmingham 6:30-8 �� PM Music by the Vestavia Hills High School Band 7 PM * Family Movie s�� Busines Expo��

*Movie will begin at dusk, approximately 8 PM. Free�� Visit www.vestaviahills.org for more details. Admissio n�� Please Note: No Pets will be allowed on the field. Sponsored by:

Pure Grapes ��

�� 977-9330 • MON. - SAT. 10AM - 7PM • SUN. BY APPOINTMENT www.thomaskinkadebirmingham.com

Allstate Insurance~Jacob Leake Agency * Brown Heating & Cooling * Champion Cleaners Digital Trends Corporation * First Baptist Church of Birmingham Hilton Garden Inn~Liberty Park * Kwik Kopy Printing~Vestavia * Mobility Central Roofing & Painting Contractor~Oswaldo Sialer * SourcePointe Truitt Insurance & Bonding * Vestavia Hills United Methodist Church

6 • THURSDAY, AUGUST 11, 2011

ABOUT TOWN

OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL

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House of Hope founders include, from left: Charla Brown, Sara Bright, Martha Bohorfoush, Virginia Lavalett and Kim Wilcox. Not pictured: Photo special to the Journal Danielle Welden and Peggy Goodwin.

House of Hope Plans Special Event

House of Hope, a new Christian ministry for women in Mountain Brook, will have a Celebrate Hope event Aug. 21 from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. The event includes a barbecue dinner and silent auction. House of Hope provides a safe, confidential place where women can heal emotionally, physically and spiritually and be encouraged by others. There is no charge for the biblically-based services. House of Hope also is a nondenominational place to celebrate happy occasions with other Christian women. It offers a library of Christian books, DVDs and praise music. House of Hope was founded by a group of Christian friends, including Martha Bohorfoush, Charla Brown, Sara Bright, Peggy Goodwin, Kim Wilcox, Virginia Lavallet and Danielle Welden. The facility is in Mountain Brook at 2106 Cahaba Road in English Village. Hours of operation are Monday, Tuesday,

Wednesday and Friday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. and Thursday from 2 to 7 p.m. For more information, call 639-1360 or visit houseofhopeforwomen.org The Celebrate Hope event is a fundraiser for House of Hope. The cost is $15 per person, and reservations are required. To make a reservation, e-mail brownchar@bellsouth.net or call House of Hope at 639-1360.

After-Hours Party Kicks off ‘Step Out’

The American Diabetes Association, in partnership with HP Hotels, will host a business after-hours event Aug. 25 from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. at the Embassy Suites in Hoover. The kickoff party will include a silent auction, drinks and hors d’oeuvres in addition to information about the ADA’s signature fundraising event, Step Out: Walk to Stop Diabetes. The event will raise funds and awareness for diabetes and the Birmingham Step Out, set for Oct. 8 at Samford University. Registration the day of the event begins at 7:30 a.m.; the walk will

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The city of Vestavia Hills will continue its “I Love America” summer celebration series Aug. 12 from 6:30-9 p.m. at Wald Park. There will be free swimming from 6:30-7:30 p.m. and children’s activities by the First Baptist Church of Birmingham until 8 p.m. The Vestavia Hills High School band will perform at 7 p.m. and a movie will start at dusk. For more information visit www.vestaviahills.org.

Kirk Cameron Is Conference Guest

Kirk Cameron, star of the hit movie “Fireproof,” will be the featured speaker Aug. 13 at the national Feed Your Faith’s “Love Worth Fighting For” tour in Birmingham. Singer/songwriter Warren Barfield will also be a featured guest on the tour. The show will begin at 6 p.m. at Metropolitan Church of God. For more information and ticket details, visit www.feedyourfaith.org/event/ lwff-birmingham-al/. The “Love Worth Fighting For” conference focuses on relationships with God and with other people. Teenagers, single adults, newly married couples and longtime spouses are invited to attend. Tickets range from $20 to $35 and are available as reserved seats or general admission for singles, couples and groups of 10 or more. The “Love Worth Fighting For” tour is partnering with the nonprofit Food for the Hungry. For more information about the event or to order tickets, visit www. FeedYourFaith.org.

Hewitt-Trussville Class Plans 50th Reunion

Hewitt-Trussville High School’s Class of 1961 will host a 50th reunion with a two-night celebration. Class members will gather for dinner Sept. 30 at 5 p.m. at the Hilton Garden Inn Restaurant in Trussville. The main event will be Oct. 1 at 5:30 p.m. at Grayson Valley Country Club. The evening includes a banquet, music, dancing, cash bar, pictures and a memorabilia display. Dress is business casual. Tickets are $45 per person, with an additional $5 charge for a commemorative mug. For more information, call Carolyn Lochamy Ray at 739-0100 or Shirley Robbins Sawyer at 8532025. Send checks made payable to Hewitt-Trussville Class of 1961 to P. O. Box 361384, Birmingham, 35236. ❖

A Picture of ‘Hope’

OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL

BY LAURA MCALISTER JOURNAL EDITOR

requent shoppers at the Homewood Piggly Wiggly know him. He’s at the grocery store nearly every day, greeting his customers and inquiring about their families. What many of those customers may not know, however, is that Stanley hope gala Virciglio, owner of the The American Homewood, Cancer Liberty Park Society’s Hope Gala will and Crestline Piggly Wiggly be Aug. 20 grocery stores, at 6 p.m. at battled cancer the Vestavia and won. Country Club. Stanley, For more infor77, is this mation or to year’s buy tickets, call American Ellen Miles at Cancer 930-8883. Society’s Hope Gala Honoree. The gala is the cancer society’s largest fundraiser and will be Aug. 20 at 6 p.m. at the Vestavia Country Club. Each year, the Hope Gala committee chooses an honoree who is a role model in the community and to those fighting cancer. The fact that Stanley is a cancer survivor and that he and his family contribute in various ways to the

community made him an obvious choice for this year’s honoree, said Lisa Smith Sharp, chairman of the 2011 Hope Gala. “Mr. Virciglio epitomizes the foundation of the Hope Gala and hope itself,” she said. “A cancer survivor, he and his family, both personally and professionally, have been the driving force in better schools for the Over the Mountain community, charitable efforts from the United Way to Juvenile Diabetes to the University of Alabama and of course, the American Cancer Society.” Stanley said he was thrilled when he was asked to serve as this year’s Hope Gala honoree. He knows firsthand how frightening a cancer diagnosis can be. In 2000, the Vestavia Hills resident was diagnosed with prostate cancer, the same cancer that took his father’s life. “I’ll never forget,” he said. “The doctor was very blunt, like he needed to be. He told me to come back and bring my wife, ‘you have cancer.’ He gave me three options. I could do nothing, do the seed therapy or take it all out and do the radical. I asked him what he would tell his son.” The doctor recommended the radical surgery, in which the whole gland and lymph nodes are removed. Stanley took his advice. On Nov. 16, he had the surgery. Fortunately, he had caught the cancer

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early, and none of it had spread. He credits that to the nurses at St. Vincent’s Hospital who treated his father when he had prostate cancer. “They told me then that I needed to get checked, and get checked often,” he said. “I did. Early detection was key. I didn’t have to have chemo or anything.” As honoree of the Hope Gala, Stanley gets to designate some of the funds raised from the event to a par-

ticular area of the American Cancer Society. Stanley chose the Hope Lodge, a place for families from out of town to stay for free while their loved ones undergo treatments. “A cancer diagnosis can really destroy a family anyway, so this place is really a blessing,” he said. “The Hope Lodge has been around 10 or 11 years, and it could really use some remodeling. I hope we can raise some money to do that.” ❖

THURSDAY, AUGUST 11, 2011 • 7

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Homewood - 2340 Woodcrest Place | Fultondale - 1301 Decatur Highway Pelham - 2695 Pelham Parkway | Vestavia - 613 Montgomery Highway �� Mountain Brook Village | Crestline Village | Hoover Normal credit qualifications and other terms and conditions apply. Rates and terms of this offer are subject to change without notice. *Introductory fixed rate of 2.99% for the first six months of the contract. Thereafter, your APR is a variable rate based on the Wall Street Journal Prime plus a margin that is determined based on your creditworthiness and other credit criteria. An example of a recent margin used is 0.75% and as of 7/21/2011, the Wall Street Journal Prime Rate is 3.25%. Using this example, the effective APR after the introductory rate period ends would be 4.00%. The maximum possible APR on the variable-rate line of credit is 21%. Please consult your tax advisor for details regarding deductibility of interest and charges. For new lines of credit only. The minimum line amount is $10,000. Refinances with less than $10,000 additional credit are excluded from this offer. Subject to a $199 origination fee and a $50 annual fee. Home equity lines of credit are subject to satisfactory appraisal, title search and proof of ownership. Lender may require property insurance. Valid for owner-occupied, single-family primary residences, (townhouses, condominiums, co-ops and mobile homes are excluded). The $0 third party closing cost feature is not available on lines of credit with a principal balance of $250,000 or more or on lines of credit requiring the use of outside counsel to close, pursuant to current IBERIABANK lending policy. Some third party closing fees, typically ranging between $0 and $1,300, are waived. Other fees, for example, attorney fees and title insurance (if applicable), will not be waived. These fees typically range between $0 and $5,000, depending upon the circumstances of your line of credit. Local county tax fees may also apply and are not waived. Proof of income required for all lines of credit. The IBERIABANK home equity line of credit allows you to make multiple advances for any amounts and will be available for a 5-year draw. After the draw period has expired, any outstanding balance will be amortized over a 15-year period and will be payable in 180 equal monthly installments, depending upon the repayment terms and conditions of your line of credit agreement. You have the option of paying more toward principal whenever you choose with no prepayment penalties. Please see an IBERIABANK representative for additional details.

8 • THURSDAY, AUGUST 11, 2011

LIFE

Living Memories

The trees that decorated the entryway to one couple’s wedding reception will now brighten the yards of those in Cahaba Heights most impacted by the April 27 storms.

Ashley Dawson Archer and husband Al Jones used dogwoods to line the entryway of the Country Club of Birmingham for their June 11 wedding reception. The dogwoods will soon be planted in the yards of Cahaba Photo courtesy Arden Ward Heights residents who lost the most during the April 27 storms. Photography

BY LAURA MCALISTER

The April 27 tornado did more than $7.7 million worth of damage in Vestavia Hills. JOURNAL EDITOR More than 500 structures were damaged, not to mention the significant loss of trees. The great ahaba Heights will soon have new oaks that once lined the streets of the area were trees to replace some of the many uprooted. Now that most of the stumps and uprooted by the April 27 tornado root balls have been removed, areas of the city that tore through the area. that were lush with vegetation are now barren. Mary Jean Archer is donating Vestavia Hills Mayor Alberto “Butch” 10 dogwoods to Vestavia Hills Zaragoza said he’s thankful for people in the in memory of her father, the late community who’ve stepped up to help rebuild William John “Bill” Christiansen, a and “re-green” the city. longtime resident of the city and an “We’ve been in touch with churches to help avid gardener. identify key areas where the trees should go,” “My dad lived most his life here, and he just he said. “I think her (Mary Jean’s) efforts to loved Vestavia, and he loved working in his yard,” donate the trees in her dad’s honor is just treshe said. “We just thought he would really love mendous.” this.” Though 10 trees won’t fill the void, Mary The city is working with James Pegues, chairman of deacons at Philadelphia Baptist Church Mary Jean Archer donated the trees in her Jean said, it will help. She is also glad to honor in Cahaba Heights, to find homes for the trees. father’s honor. Micheal Dyer of Cahaba her father’s memory. Bill died in Aug. 2010, and dogwoods One will be planted in the yard of the late Milton Heights’ Uncut Flowers said the trees were just happened to be among his favorite trees. Edward Baker. Milton, 68, was Cahaba Heights’ stored at his shop during the April 27 tor- Vestavia was always very important to him as only fatality from the April 27 storms. He was nado but were not harmed. well. struck by a limb while trying to help a neighbor Journal photo by Laura McAlister Bill was born and spent most his life in clear up debris from the storm. Vestavia. He attended and played football at “I just think this is amazing,” said Donna Baker, Milton’s wife. “We Shades Cahaba High School. After graduation, he served in the Army’s have a very special place in our yard for the tree. This has all been airborne division. He was a sales manager for American Standard extremely difficult, but the good Lord is helping us through it. Company and later founded Chris-More Inc. “The community and people here are just absolutely wonderful. Our Bill was also an active member of Vestavia Hills United Methodist neighbors are very special people.” Church for some 50 years, Mary Jean said. Up until his death, maintainThe trees that Mary Jean is donating are actually survivors of the ing his yard was a top priority. April 27 storms. They were being cared for and stored at Uncut Flowers “His hobby was gardening and his yard and the community,” she said. in Cahaba Heights until Mary Jean’s daughter’s June 11 wedding recep“I think he would just be thrilled about the trees being donated in his tion. Instead of traditional floral bouquets at their reception, Ashley memory. His yard was always a big concern to him, and he loved dogDawson Archer and Al Jones decorated the entryway of the Country wood trees.” Club of Birmingham with white dogwoods to give the hall a garden-like Mary Jean isn’t the only one contributing to the replanting of Cahaba feel. Heights. Zaragoza said the Vestavia Tree Commission gave several trees Micheal Dyer of Uncut Flowers said his shop was damaged by the away shortly after the storm on Arbor Day, and American Responds With tornados, but the dogwoods were unharmed. Love, Inc., has also donated a pallet of mixed flower bulbs. “We couldn’t believe it,” Micheal said. “We had been taking care of Anyone interested in donating or helping plant trees and bulbs should the trees since March and were so worried. There was some debris in the contact Melissa Hipp at the mayor’s office, 978-0100. ❖ trees, but other than that they were fine.”

OVER THE MOUNTAIN

JOU RNAL

PEOPLE

Paige Grant Chosen Regional Treasurer

Paige Grant, an Auburn University junior and Mountain Brook High School graduate, was recently selected as treasurer for Region V of the Silver Wings organization. She is a member and the treasurer of Auburn University’s John “Boots” Stratford Chapter of Silver Wings, formerly known as Angel Flight. Members serve as Paige Grant AU’s official Air Force ROTC hostesses and provide community service through the organization. Members of the Auburn University student affiliated Silver Wings organization recently traveled to New York City for their national conclave, NATCON. While in New York, the Auburn University chapter was selected as the Region V Headquarters and was awarded the John Burdette Binkley Award for the nation’s most outstanding Silver Wings chapter. Grant is the daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Perry Grant. She is a member of Zeta Tau Alpha, where she serves as the chapter historian, and is the former director of Greek Sing for the chapter.

Mac Butler is Eagle Scout

Mac Butler received the rank of Eagle Scout at his Court of Honor Feb. 27 at Discovery United Methodist Church in Hoover. Butler’s Eagle Scout project was to build and install eightfoot benches around a pond at Camp Fletcher for campers and staff memMac Butler bers. His scouting achievements include 27 merit badges, 75 miler at Northern Tier in Canada, Order of the Arrow, mile swim and 98 nights camping. He is a member of Boy Scout Troop 23 at Discovery UMC. The Hoover High School graduate is the son of Cliff and Donna Butler. He will attend Auburn University in the fall to study engineering. ❖

LIFE

OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL

THURSDAY, AUGUST 11, 2011 • 9

Simple life in abundance

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10 • THURSDAY, AUGUST 11, 2011

SOCIAL

A Signature Soiree

Guests Meet and Mingle with Young Author While Raising Funds for Literacy Council

OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL

he Literacy Council continued its 2011 Signature Series with a recent reception honoring author Adam Ross. Guests were able to meet the young author at the event, held at the Altadena Road home of Dr. Rob Mason and Katie Rochester. Ross shared stories about his latest novel, “Ladies and Gentlemen,” and his first book, the New York Times bestseller “Mr. Peanut,” a murder mystery. Working with Jake Reiss of the Alabama Booksmith, the Literacy Council’s Signature Series yearly brings three prominent authors to Alabama for private cocktail receptions in Birmingham homes. Guests are treated to cocktails and hors d’œuvres and receive signed copies of the author’s work. The 2011 Signature Series Committee is chaired by Susan Swagler and includes Carleton Ambrose, Virginia Patterson, Danny Stewart and Melissa Turnage. The Signature Series continues its 2011 season with the final author slated for the end of the year. For updates and information, visit Guests at the Literary Council’s recent Signature Series event included, from left: Beth Wilder, Kelly and Kyle www.literacy-council.org. ❖ Echols and Madeline and Jake Reiss IV.

Clockwise from above: Attending the author event were, from left: Kathy and John English, Virginia Patterson and Matt Burchart. Also there were, from left: Ed and Joy Phillips and Melissa Tournage. Others meeting author Adam Ross at the Literacy Council’s Signature Series were, from left: Douglas Jackson, Jane Kelly and Ken Jackson.

Photos special to the Journal

OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL

The Hoover Bellles for 2011 ...

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Photo special to the Journal

Koch, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Mark Alan Koch; Kasie Day Lennon, daughter of Mr. Joseph Gilbert Lennon and the late Sharon Kay Lennon; Jordan Davis McDonald, daughter of Ms. Ruth Kennedy McDonald; McKenna Macie McLain, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Kenneth Dale McLain; Alexandria Ann McPherson, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Charles Hamilton McPherson, Jr.; Elizabeth Lurie Nichols, daughter of Dr. Michele Holloway Nichols and Dr. John Christopher Nichols; Ashley Nicole Pace, daughter of Mr.

and Mrs. Richard Alexander Pace, Jr.; Victoria Lynn Pinkerton, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Ronald Lee Pinkerton; Ashley Nicole Scharf, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Stephen Jerry Scharf; Kristen Caroline Schneider, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Robert Ernest Schneider; Kelsie Maria Schweer, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. James Robert Schweer; Madelyn Grace Shelton, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Donald Wayne Shelton; Meredith Jean Shockey , daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Mark Allan Shockey; Cami Kathleen Silver, daugh-

ter of Mr. and Mrs. William Lucas Silver III; Kennedy Ann Thomas, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Mark O’Rear Thomas; Katherine Bouchard Tracy, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Robert Joseph Tracy; Madison Nicole Vacarella, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Christopher Anthony Vacarella; Katherine Eilene Willoughby, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Ian Kenneth Willoughby; Anne-Scott Wright, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Randall Scott Wright; and Naomi Farya Yusafi, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Nauman Agha Yusafi. ❖

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Members of the 2011 Hoover Belles were recently selected. There are 33 young ladies in the 2011 class.

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were recently chosen. They are: Susanna Katheryn Bagwell, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Terry Joe Bagwell; Courtney Powers Bailey, daughter of Mrs. David Kelley Williamson and the late Jefforey Craig Bailey; Olivia Rawlins Butler, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. James Dennis Butler; Kathryn Alexandra Dinsmore, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. David Newton Dinsmore; Margaret Ames Filippini, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Lawrence Michael Filippini; Ashley Kelley Garner, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Thomas Wayne Garner; Katherine Amanda Goodwin, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. James Samuel Goodwin; Christine Marie Greve, daughter of Dr. and Mrs. Mark Allan Greve; Kathryn Elizabeth Hardman, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Robert Ray Hardman; Rachel Lauren Higginbotham, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. James Michael Higginbotham; Katelyn McKenna Howard, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Kasey Alan Howard; Amanda Kathleen Ivy, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Daniel Allen Ivy; Danielle Elizabeth Ivy, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Daniel Allen Ivy; Anna Gray

THURSDAY, AUGUST 11, 2011 • 11

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OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL

Vestavia Country Club was the setting for ...

First place winners of the Member-Guest tournament were from left: Jean Archibald, Sandra Smith, Sharden Kellum and Peggy Kelley.

the club’s annual Member-Guest golf tournament May 17. Chairman Gayle Palmer, with co-chairmen Carolyn Hartman and Adrienne O’Brien, gave the tournament an “Around the World in 18 Flags” theme. Table décor was carried out in red, white and blue; centerpieces included three burlap-wrapped pots of yellow flowers. Ladies whose birthdays were the closest to the 17th of each month received a centerpiece at the end of the awards. Members and guests enjoyed a buffet lunch. Winners were: First place: Peggy Kelley, Sharon Kellum, Jean Archibald and Sandra Smith; second place: Tricia McConnell, Jo Sims, Ann Fulmer and Nita Jones; and third place, Jill Kimbrough, Ann Long, Nell Larson and Debbie Churchey. Closest to the pin was won by Fran Hogg and Susan Murphy.

Photos special to the Journal

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Sprig O’Holly Garden Club begins its 56th year ...

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with a Sept. 12 luncheon-meeting at The Club. Co-hostesses are Betty Bowen, Joan Hinkle, Betty Nunis and Elaine Wood. Attorney Clyde Riley will speak on wills and trusts. At the club’s Oct. 10 meeting, Birmingham Museum of Art docent Nan Skier will present “Secrets of the Lover’s Eye Jewelry.” Co-hostesses for the luncheon-meeting at Danberry in Inverness are Faye Dick, Barbara Randle and Janis Zeanah. January’s program is “Petals from the Past” by Jason Powell. Jean Beatty, Blanche Thomason

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Leading Sprig O’Holly Garden Club this year are, from left: officers Nancy Jones, Faye Hallman, Sarah Dodd, Elaine Wood and Joan Photo special to the Journal Hinkle. and Betty Weeks are co-hostesses for the meeting at The Club. The club’s officers are Sarah Dodd, president; Elaine Wood, vice president; Faye Hallman, secretary; Joan Hinkle, treasurer; and Nancy Jones, immediate past president and parliamentarian. Other active members are Virginia Chappelle, Martha Chism, Kay Davidson, Lovie Dixon, Marilyn Gross, Tallulah Hargrove, Fay Hart, Jan McElroy, Anne Michaels, Adrienne O’Brien and Helen Smalley. Barbara Hawkins is an associate member.

Carousels Dance Club members gathered at ...

the home of Jane Morgan for their annual spring luncheon. President Martha Norville conducted a short business meeting about donating funds to help tornado disaster victims. The nominating committee presented the slate of new officers for the coming year, including: president Elizabeth Nettles, secretary Mary Ruth Ingram, treasurer Harryette Turner, assistant treasurer Jessie Key, publicity chairman Patsy Norton, party chairmen Paula Pointer, Lynn

Ault, Virginia Lavallet and Joyce Lott and yearbook chairman Sahra Coxe. After the meeting, an English lunch included Coronation chicken, English peas, fresh fruit, cheese biscuits and castle-shaped cookies. Jane exhibited her great-grandmother’s wedding dress from 1890. An original picture of the bride was also displayed. Members attending the event were Patty Faulkner, Anne Waudby, Terry Adams, Sara Jane Ball, Mary Alice Carmichael, Martha Cheney, Augusta Forbes, JoAnne Gaede, Emmy McGowin, Jerry Mills, Betty Morton, Carolyn Smallwood, Monty Stabler and Betty Wagstaff.

Alpha Gamma Delta celebrated its annual ...

International Reunion Day April 16 at the Vestavia Country Club. Hosting the event were the Gamma Omega chapter at the University of Alabama at Birmingham, the Gamma Upsilon chapter at the University of Montevallo, the Greater Birmingham Alumnae Chapter and the Greater Shelby County Alumnae Chapter.

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Attending the Carousels Dance Club’s spring luncheon were from left: Harryette Turner, Jessie Key, Elizabeth Nettles, Paula Pointer, Virginia Photo special to the Journal Lavallet, Sahra Coxe and Lil Ault.

OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL

Members of the Poinsettia Ball board are, from left: Denise Oliver, Ruby Cade, David Hendrickson, Elizabeth Ferguson, Liz Guest, Beth McCord Photo special to the Journal and Mary Angelo. Judith Hayes Hand was event chairman. Guest speaker was Gamma Upsilon alumna member Beth Killough Chapman, Alabama secretary of state, speaking on the day’s theme, “Seasons of Sisterhood.” The Greater Birmingham Alumnae Chapter report was given by president DeDe McDanal Moore. President Laura Hornsby presented the Gamma Omega chapter report, and president Kimbrell Lee gave the Gamma Upsilon chapter report. Amber Davenport Coleman, alumnae relations advisor, discussed Gamma Upsilon alumnae projects. Charlotte Powell Howton, Gamma Upsilon executive council chairman, presented Beth Chapman with a 25-year certificate. Laura Burkards Junkin, Gamma Omega chapter advisor, presented Shannon Lewis with the International Fraternity Award, given to the senior with the highest grade point average during her four-year college career. Luncheon tables were decorated with roses in red and yellow, the fraternity colors and greenery. More than 100 collegians from Celebrating Alpha Gamma Delta’s International Reunion Day were Charlotte Powell Howton, executive council chairman for UAB’s Gamma Upsilon chapter, left, and Alabama Secretary of State Beth Killough Chapman, guest Photo special to the Journal

the two chapters attended. Other alumnae from seven chapters at the event were Amanda Beck, Cena Hickenbotam Davis, Kim Swindle Glover, Amanda Golden, Tobie Willingham Hand, Alyce Heggeman Head, Betsy Weiss Hoffman, Joanna Galigano Jones, Kelly Owens McCay, Libby Pendergast Medicus, Kathy Boyett Robinson, Jessica Robinson, Lean Hallman Shockney, Marie Smyly, Amy Snider, Mary Ben Savage Trautman and Sandra Barton Vickers. An Alpha Gamma Delta Junior Circle has been formed for young Birmingham area alumnae. The group’s first meeting was April 19 at Billy’s in English Village. Paige Witt is chairman. Among those attending were Erin Ireland Clark, Amanda Giles, Anna Giles, Ashley Tucker Hicks, Jessica Hightower, Margaret Pitts Lee, Sara McRay, Elizabeth Smith Melancon, Rachel Kopf Presley, Camille Caprio Reed, Laura Henry Rose, Bonnie Scott, Laurin Standridge, Emily Tyler and Susan Witt.

SOCIAL

The Poinsettia Men’s Club held a reception for the ...

2011 Class of Poinsettia Debutantes June 26 at the Inverness home of Shannon and Chip Moore. The debs were formally introduced to the club at the annual event. The Ballet Women’s Committee sponsors the annual Poinsettia Debutante Ball every Christmas. This is the ball’s 44th year. Members of the 2011 Ball board are Denise Oliver, president; Ruby Cade, immediate past president of Ballet Women’s Committee; David Hendrickson, Poinsettia Men’s Club president; Elizabeth Ferguson, social secretary; Liz Guest, Ballet Women’s Committee president; Beth McCord, publicity; and Mary Angelo, ball chairman. Debs there included Elizabeth Pirkle, Courtney McCallum, Sarah Fuston, Hannah Scivley, Abby Lucas, Emily Dumas, Erin Dowling, Allyson Shumate, Elizabeth Alexander, Ansley Fuller, Meg Ross, Emily Williams, Lauren Lassiter, Caroline Daniel, Rebecca Cade, Brittany Arias, Kathleen Smith, Kelsey Schilling, Sarah Cox, Sarah Kathryn Sharp, Virginia

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Moore, Cara Mordecai, Caroline Kennemer, Aleigh Thornton, Elizabeth Glisson, Anna Kate Page and Mary Ellen Davis. Other debutantes include Mary Susan Cashio, Amy Dumas, Lucy Walker Gunn, Amy Hale, Anne Walker Irwin, Allison Mills and Lindsey Sillers. ❖

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14 • THURSDAY, AUGUST 11, 2011

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OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL

SoHIP members planning the gallery party include, front, from left: Kristen McGee, Cassie Moore, Kiley Rocco and Claire Robb. Back from left: Melinda Carter, Natalie Crowe, Jennifer Smith, Lyndsey Tetlow, Matt Lackey, Will Callans and Laura Lavender.

Painters, Pets Prep for Party

Photos special to the Journal

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uests got a preview of the 11th annual Picasso Pets at a Gallery Party July 20 at 212 29th St. S. at Pepper Place. Hand in Paw, with its young professional group, SoHIP, hosted the party to reveal the 10 pet paintings to be auctioned off at this year’s Picasso Pets. Ten presenters signed up with their pets to create original pieces of work, choosing their very own “muses” (local artists) to make the finishing touches to the paintings. The cats and dogs used their paws and noses as stamps and their tails as paintbrushes to make these one-of-a kind paintings. The finished products were unveiled for the presenters, sponsors and artists who are a part of Picasso Pets. This year’s muses include Thomas Andrew, Bo Berry, Beth Bradley, Leah Dodd, Lila Graves, Bob McKenna, Ann Phillips, Arthur Price, Linda Ellen Price and Dustin Stridiron. The vacant space, former home of the General Store at Pepper Place, was transformed to hold the artwork displays, flower arrangements and decorations with Hand in Paw’s signature golden color. Proceeds from Picasso Pets will directly benefit Hand in Paw as it seeks to improve the health and well-being of children and adults

Above: Artist Dustin Stridiron, left, with pet owner, Lee Stanley, admire “Delilah,” a painting that Lee’s dog helped to create. Left: Mallie Ireland checks out the piece created by artist, Arthur Price, and her puppy Winston. The works of art created by artists and dogs will be auctioned off at Picasso Pets Aug. 20. by serving those with physical, emotional, educational or psychological needs through interactions with professionally trained Animal-Assisted Therapy Teams. This year’s Picasso Pets will begin at 5:30 p.m. Aug. 20 at the Cahaba Grand Conference Center.

In addition to the pets’ artwork, there will be several other items for sale during live and silent auctions. For more information about this year’s Picasso Pets and to find out how to buy tickets, visit www. picassopets.com. ❖ Members of the Alabama Society Daughters of the American Revolution participated in Memorial Day commemorative activities at the American Village in Montevallo. The events were sponsored by the Blue Star Salute Foundation. Memorial wreaths were presented by the Alabama State Society and the Cahawba, Chief Tuskaloosa, Chinnobee-Ft. Strother, John Park Custis, Lily of the Cahaba and Princess Sehoy Chapters.

Photo special to the Journal

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THURSDAY, AUGUST 11, 2011 • 15

Fans of Miami-based designer Rene Ruiz were treated to a ...

special preview at Gus Mayer June 7 by Daniel Simon, a representative of the Cuban-born designer. Ruiz will present his spring 2012 collection at the 53rd annual Linly Heflin Scholarship Luncheon and Fashion Show Sept. 28 at the Sheraton Birmingham Hotel Ballroom. After earning a degree from the International Fine Arts College in Miami, Ruiz worked in apprenticeships throughout Europe. He opened his first atelier in Coral Gables in the ’90s. The designer has become known for his eye for highquality fabrics and personalized attention to the creation and tailoring of each garment. Linly Heflin members welcomed Simon at the Gus Mayer Summit store and thanked him in advance for the Ruiz design team’s contribution to the upcoming luncheon and fashion show. The September event will start at noon. Tickets are $45 and are available by calling the Linly Heflin office at 871-8171. Fashion show producer Megan LaRussa is planning a new and exciting show. Emcee is Amie Beth Shaver, Miss Alabama 1994. The long-running Scholarship Luncheon and Fashion Show continues to be the primary fundraiser for the Linly Heflin scholarship program, which benefits women seeking higher education in Alabama. In recent years, more than 3,000 four-year scholarships totaling more than $2 million have been awarded to deserving women attending state colleges and universities. For more information, visit www.linlyheflin.org. The Linly Heflin Unit includes 125 volunteers headed by president Kathryn Porter. Co-chairmen of this year’s luncheon and show are Patti Badham and Kay Grisham. Other key members involved in the event are Susan Alison, Happy Anthony, Jane Arendall, Grace Bentley, Gina Boyd, Margaret Brunstad, Suzanne Chenoweth, Deane Cook, Beth Corey, Kate Cotten, Katherine Cox, Martha DeBuys, Gillian Goodrich, Eugenia Greer, Elizabeth Hubbard, Kate Millhouse, Margaret Moor, Bette Owen, Sheri Perry, Murray Priester, Allison Prichard, Pam Prichard, Cynnie Sproull, Helen Terry, Caroline Thomas and Libba Williams. ❖

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Above: Rene Ruiz designs will be featured at this year’s Linly Heflin Scholarship Luncheon and Fashion Show. At a special preview were, from left: Daniel Simon, a representative of the designer; Patti Badham, event co-chairman; Ann Simmons and Nichole Cummins, Gus Mayer representatives; and Kay Grisham, event co-chairman. Below: Also there were, from left: Megan LaRussa, Daniel Simon, Amie Beth Shaver, Photos special to the Journal Patti Badham and Kay Grisham.

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16 • THURSDAY, AUGUST 11, 2011

OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL

Members of Belvedere Study Club gathered ...

recently for brunch at Over Easy on Hollywood Boulevard. The group’s next regular luncheon-meeting will be Sept. 7 at the Vestavia Hills home of Barbara Randle, with Janis Zeanah as co-hostess. Dr. Carolyn Satterfield will present the program on “Arlington: Birmingham’s Historic House.” A personal account of biking across America will be presented Oct. 6 by Janet Holloway with club president Dale Miller and Bobby Jean Tucker as co-hostesses. Another program highlight will be in April 2012 with Olivia Wells’ review of the novel “The Poet of Tolstoy Park” by Sonny Brewer of Fairhope. Olivia and Judy Jackson will be co-hostesses. At the May meeting, co-hosted by Kay Davidson and Judy Harvey, Israel will be the topic of Belvedere member Margie Curry, who traveled there in April 2010.

Belvedere Study Club officers include, from left: Dale Miller, president; Judy Harvey, yearbook chairman; Kay Davidson, historian; and Photo special to the Journal Barbara Randle, vice president, programs. Belvedere officers for 201112 are Dale Miller, president; Barbara Randle, vice presidentprograms; Susie Elliott, treasurer; Butch Smith, corresponding secretary-membership chair; Janis

Zeanah, recording secretary; and Olivia Wells, parliamentarianbylaws chair. Judy Harvey is producing the 2011-12 yearbook. Belvedere Study Club was organized in February 1948 by six young women who were friends in high school and BirminghamSouthern College’s Panhellenic. Their purpose was to promote intellectual development and community service. The founding president was Zoe Saunders James, followed by Virginia Evins Huckstep and Jane Murdoch Graham, all now deceased. Virginia Huckstep’s daughter, Ginger Brown, is a newly-elected member of Belvedere. One of the early members, Peggy Kime, is still active in the club.

The Community Foundation of Greater Birmingham won ...

JohnQueta Bailey, grants administrator of the Community Foundation of Greater Birmingham, accepts the National Operation School Bell Award from Connie Williams, Operation School Bell chairman for the Photo special to the Journal Assistance League of Birmingham.

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the National Operation School Bell Award, presented by the Assistance League of Birmingham at its year-end luncheon. JohnQueta Bailey, grants administrator of the Community Foundation of Greater Birmingham, accepted the award. The Community Foundation of Greater Birmingham has been a longtime supporter of the Assistance League of Birmingham’s Operation School Bell program. Since 1986, its collaboration with ALB has helped to clothe more than 22,000 children in the Birmingham area. This spring, a grant from the foundation provided financial support to add Midfield Elementary School as the 23rd school participant in the Operation School Bell program. The foundation’s support has been instrumental in achieving the league’s goal to continue to provide clothing, personal hygiene products, books and shoe vouchers for needy children in the community. ❖

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SOCIAL

OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL

with Carl Jones, club photographer Lisa Powers with Bob, social chairman Nancy Coggin with Tom, membership chairman Bess Speegle with Alan and publicity chairman Brenda Harris with Ray. Other Cheramis members at the event included Inez Donahoo with Vance, Helen Warren with Bill, Shirley Rierson with Duby, and Jean Morton with Joe Wesley; Alice Ellison with Tony, Reyford Nichols with Ed, Reba Huffman with Stan Biggs, Jerrie Kitchings with Carl Harris, Christine Hill with William, Martha Vick with Bob, Zella Listerman with Don Hamner, Connie Dabbs At an anniversary celebration for the Woodlawn High School Class of with Tom, Jane Crouch with Frank Jones, Yvonne Norton 1951 were, from left, Bill Adair and Dr. and Mrs. C. Ladell Payne. with John, Sissy Mathews with Photo special to the Journal Charlie, Regina Smith with Louis Cheney, and Fairfax versary April 22 at Vestavia Hills Segner with Ed. Country Club. Also at the party were Before dinner, guests mingled Beverly Jackson with George, and enjoyed scrapbooks of phoBarbara Pilato with Dave tos, newspaper clippings and celebrated its 60th anniversary Woods, Colleen Adams with with a luncheon at The Club May other mementos dating back to Virgil Mitchell, Barbara the club’s 1961 beginning. 13. George Hayes, class presiDobbyn with Jim, Virginia Ballroom tables were covdent, served as emcee. Golightly with John, Betty ered in white linen. Tall crystal Attending were Dr. and Mrs. Womack with Lowell, Betty vases were filled with sparkling Ladell Payne, retired president Bassinger with Ron, Robin gold, white and silver cascadof Randolph-Macon College in Ward with Richard, Wilda ing ostrich feathers, ribbons and Ashland, Va.; Dr. and Mrs. Gary Lunsford with Larry, and glass beads. Cage from Avon, Colo.; Mr. Shirley Whitlock with Gil After cocktails, a dinner of and Mrs. Emory Burton from Bokenkamp; Mary Klemenc butter lettuce salad, beef tenderDallas; Mr. and Mrs. Bill Adair with Elmer, Marilyn Kelly with loin, potatoes and baby asparafrom Black Mountain, N.C.; Dr. Willie Larson and Betty Rogers gus was served. After dessert, and Mrs. Max Merrill from with John Bosshart. guests danced to music by the Hartselle and other classmates. Other Cheramis attendClassics, a Birmingham ballroom A picnic was held May 14 at dance band. Oak Mountain State Park. New club members Jeanie Gene Lightsey of Hoover was Box, Mary Jean Box, Laura chairman of the planning commitEstes and Mary Lambert were tee, which also included George Hayes of Trussville, Hope Dixon introduced by president Peggy Yarnall and presented with Brown of Hoover, Pat Powell golden roses. of Roebuck, Ron Etheredge of In addition to Peggy, there Crestwood, Robert Gorman of with husband Chandler, Vestavia Hills, Jack Mitchell of Cheramis officers and committee Huffman, Neil Maxwell of North members enjoying the festivities Shelby County and Harriett included vice president Janet Isaacson of Hoover. Harden with Curtis Johnson, secretary Vicki Barnes with Bob, treasurer Mollie Midlik with Bill, telephone chairman Noel Tidwell with J.P., yearcelebrated the club’s 50th annibook chairman Doris Kenny

ing were Patsy Martin with Al Finley, Kellye Young with Matt, Shirley Vaughn with Jack, Dianne Adams with George and Frankie Cashion with William. From out of town were Wanda Arnold of Lincoln with Tom, Elaine Hughes of Montevallo with Bobby, Joyce Dill of Bessemer with Frank,

Ann Duncan of Douglas with Stewart Swindle, Joy Patterson of Gadsden with Robin Skipper and Sharon Franks of Moody with Ron Stutts. Guests joining Cheramis members for dining and dancing were Margie and Tom George, Kathy and Jim Courtland and Linda Matson with Bob Francis. ❖

The 1951 class of Woodlawn High School ...

Cheramis Dance Club members and guests...

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Leading the Cheramis Dance Club are officers, from left: Joy Patterson, Vicki Barnes, Janet Harden, Peggy Yarnall and Mollie Midlik.

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18 • THURSDAY, AUGUST 11, 2011

Petermann-Barnard

Dr. and Mrs. James Scott Green of Homewood and Aviano, Italy, and Mr. and Mrs. Steven Craig

Owens-Staub

Milner Benedict Owens and Joseph Martin Staub were married Jan. 22, 2011, at half after eleven in the morning at the

Dinken-Stone

Caitlin Coleman Dinken and Paul Martin Stone were married Aug. 6, 2011, at Vestavia Hills United Methodist Church with the Rev. Sherry Harris and Dr. T. Michael Morgan officiating. The bride is the daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Harry James Dinken Jr. of Vestavia Hills. She is the granddaughter of Mr. Clyde Ray

WEDDINGS & ENGAGEMENTS

OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL

Petermann of Ft. Walton Beach, Fla., announce the engagement of their daughter, Dr. Elisabeth Reed Petermann, to Dr. Jonathan Ray Barnard, son of Mr. and Mrs. Kenneth Lee Barnard of Elizabethtown, Ky. The bride-elect is the granddaughter of the late Mr. and Mrs. Glenwood Locke Webb of Mobile and Mrs. Anna Marie Petermann and the late Mr. Richard Paul Petermann Sr. of Ft. Walton Beach. Dr. Petermann is a cum laude graduate of BirminghamSouthern College with a bachelor’s degree and a graduate of Auburn University’s College of Veterinary Medicine. She was a member of Mortar Board honorary society and vice president of Alpha Omicron Pi social sorority.

She was president of the student chapter of the American Animal Hospital Association. She is employed at Bayside Hospital for Animals in Ft. Walton Beach. The prospective groom is the grandson of Mrs. Dolores Pfeiffer and the late Mr. Lloyd Pfeiffer of Elizabethtown and Mrs. Pauline Barnard and the late John Barnard of Elizabethtown. Dr. Barnard is a graduate of Western Kentucky University, where he was on the Dean’s List and received his bachelor’s degree. He is a graduate of Auburn University’s College of Veterinary Medicine. He was a member of Alpha Psi fraternity. He is employed at Brightman Pet Clinic in Ft. Walton Beach. The wedding is planned for Sept. 30 in Valvasone, Italy.

Amelia Medina, to Jeff Jantz, son of Mr. and Mrs. Robert Carr of Birmingham, and Mr. and Mrs. Jack Jantz of Vincent. Miss Medina is a 2009 graduate of the University of West Florida, where she received a bachelor’s degree in nursing. She is employed as a pediatric nurse with Valley Regional Medical Center in Brownsville, Texas. The prospective groom is a 2008 graduate of Auburn University, where he received a bachelor’s of science degree in building construction. He is employed as a project manager with Brasfield & Gorrie General Contractors. The wedding is planned for Aug. 27 at Canterbury United Methodist Church in Birmingham.

Cathedral Church of the Advent in Birmingham. The Very Reverend Frank M. Limehouse officiated. A wedding brunch followed at the Country Club of Birmingham. The flowers were done by Birmingham designer Buffy Hargett. The bride is the daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Richard Rhett Owens. Parents of the bridegroom are Mr. and Mrs. James Paul Staub of Chickamauga, Ga. The bride, wearing an Italian ivory satin gown with a cathedral-length train, was given in marriage by her father. Gunter Davis Owens, sister-in-law of the bride, was matron of honor. Bridesmaids were Katherine Winscott Arnheim, Rebecca Jean Patterson Grubman, Rachel

Jean Halligan, Rachel Walton Knowlton, Marguerite Lee Lucas, Allie Franks Matthews, Susan McArthur Jones, Erin St. Clair Nolen, Emily Beth Rousso, Haleigh Stratton Sherbak and Sonia Suhas Talathi. The groom’s father served as best man. Groomsmen were Cody Allen Averbeck; Payton McCurry Bradford; Julian Victor Dossche; Charles Corey Jewell, brother of the groom; Samuel Egbert Miles III; Nicholas Alan Moeller; Hugh William Morton; Christopher Reid Nardone; Richard Rhett Owens Jr., brother of the bride; William Andrew Reynolds; Nicholas Ross Shadden; and Daniel Robert Staub, brother of the groom. Following a wedding trip, the couple live in Birmingham.

Choat and the late Mrs. Choat of Pensacola, Fla., and the late Mr. and Mrs. Harry James Dinken Sr. of Birmingham. The groom is the son of Mr. and Mrs. Larry Dwaine Stone of Vestavia Hills and the grandson of Mrs. Robert Earle Stone and the late Mr. Stone of St. Louis, Mo., and the late Mr. and Mrs. Van Brittain Seelbinder of Birmingham. Given in marriage by her father, the bride wore a white, silkshantung taffeta Romona Keveza gown. The A-line gown featured a ruched sweetheart neckline and was fitted at the waist with a belt of white embroidery and silver beadwork. Tiny covered buttons trimmed the back of the gown the length of the chapel length train. A custom-made veil of soft white illusion framed her gown. She carried a classic white bridal bouquet of hydrangea, roses, French tulips, sweet peas with peonies wrapped in a silk sash and pearl pinned.

Maid of honor was Allison Westlake, and matron of honor was Katherine Birchfield Trippe, both of Birmingham. Bridesmaids were the bride’s cousin, Brynn Choat Milliner of Enterprise; Brittany Spriggs Garman of Atlanta; Taylor Barr of Mobile; and Lauren Gatch and Ashley Joiner George of Birmingham. Flower girls were twin cousins of the bride, Kate and Sarah Strickland of Spanish Fort. Larry Dwaine Stone served as his son’s best man. Groomsmen were Whitt Stone, brother of the groom; Kyle Mayo of Atlanta; Lane McDanal of Miramar Beach, Fla.; Evan Metrock and Coley Smythe of Birmingham; and Colin Dinken, brother of the bride of Birmingham. Ring bearer was the bride’s cousin, Peyton Blocher of Birmingham. Following a reception at B&A Warehouse, the couple honeymooned in St. Lucia. They will live in Birmingham.

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Medina-Jantz

Mr. and Mrs. Angel Medina of Cleremont, Fla. announce the engagement of their daughter,

Seibels-Blair

Mr. and Mrs. Edmund Kelly Seibels of Birmingham announce the engagement of their daughter, Katherine Estes Seibels, to Michael Brooks Blair, son of Mr. and Mrs. Michael Warren Blair of Jackson, Miss. The bride-elect is the granddaughter of Mr. and Mrs. Henry Goldthwaite Seibels Jr. of

Corona-Long

Mrs. Nancy Smith Corona and Mr. Sam Anthony Corona of Vestavia Hills announce the engagement of their daughter, Elizabeth Ann Corona, to Brandon Scott Long, son of Mr. and Mrs. George Grigsby Long III of Metairie, La. The bride-elect is the granddaughter of Mrs. Jane Cannon Smith and the late Mr. William Jack Smith and Mrs. Ann

Birmingham and the late Mrs. Margaret Polk McCutchen of Russellville, Ky., and the late Mr. Oscar Tandy McCutchen of Russellville. Miss Seibels is a graduate of Mountain Brook High School and a summa cum laude graduate of Hollins University with a bachelor’s degree in psychology. She received a bachelor’s degree in nursing from Samford University and is employed with Memorial Hospital in Chattanooga, Tenn. The prospective groom is the grandson of Mr. and Mrs. Jack Warren Blair of Louisville, Ky., and the late Mr. and Mrs. Wilton Jerome Johnson Jr. of Meridian, Miss. Mr. Blair is a graduate of Jackson Preparatory School and a cum laude graduate of the University of Mississippi with a bachelor’s degree in banking and finance and managerial finance. He is employed with ACA Beacon Verification in Chattanooga. The wedding is planned for Oct. 1. Pillitteri Corona and the late Mr. Morris Samuel Corona, all of Birmingham. Miss Corona is a graduate of Vestavia Hills High School. She is a 2007 graduate of Auburn University with a degree in architecture and was a member of Alpha Delta Pi sorority. She is a licensed architect in Washington, D.C., and practices with HOK in Georgetown. The prospective groom is the grandson of Mrs. Rosalie LoCoco Long and the late Mr. George Grigsby Long Jr. and the late Mr. and Mrs. Robert Lewis Kitchen, all of New Orleans. Mr. Long is a graduate of Jesuit High School in New Orleans. He graduated cum laude from the University of Texas in 1999 with degrees in accounting and government. In 2005, he received his juris doctor cum laude from Duke University, where he was an editor on the Duke Law Journal. He serves as an assistant U.S. attorney in Washington, D.C. The wedding is planned for Oct. 1 at Dorgan’s Inn in Fairhope.

OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL

Hamilton-Daniel

Laura Fay “Lucy” Hamilton and Christopher Hugh Daniel were married Aug. 6 at Canterbury United Methodist Church. Dr. Bill Morgan officiated at the 6 p.m. ceremony. A reception followed at Mountain Brook Club. The bride is the daughter of Judge Laura Wilbourn Hamilton and Mr. George Seaton Hamilton of Huntsville. She is the granddaughter of the late Mrs. Laura Mae

Cuchens-Marlowe

Sarah Elizabeth Cuchens and Kevin Andrew Marlowe were married May 14 at the Sonnet House in Leeds. Following the wedding, a reception of dancing and dining

Drummond-Gannon

Amy Kathryn Drummond and James Rainer Gannon were married May 20 at Mountain Brook Community Church in Birmingham. The Rev. Mark Yoder and the Rev. Jeff Norris officiated. The bride is the daughter of Dr. and Mrs. Michael Allen Drummond of Birmingham. The groom is the son of Dr. and Mrs.

Hereford Wilbourn and Mr. Ernest Horton Wilbourn of Gurley and of Mrs. Julian Sullivan Hamilton Sr. of Huntsville and the late Mr. Julian Sullivan Hamilton Sr. The groom is the son of Mr. and Mrs. Charles William Daniel of Mountain Brook. He is the grandson of Mrs. James Seabe Pate of Shreveport, La., and the late Mr. James Seabe Pate and of the late Mr. and Mrs. Robert Hugh Daniel Sr. of Mountain Brook. Given in marriage by her parents, the bride wore an ivory silk shantung gown with a cathedral train and veil and a fitted, asymmetrical ruched bodice. She wore a pearl necklace enhanced with an heirloom gold and pearl brooch that belonged to her great-grandmother, the late Mrs. Lillian Rhodes Hamilton of Jackson, Miss. Her bridal bouquet was encircled with handmade lace from the 1904 wedding dress of the groom’s great-grandmother, the late Mrs. Lena Adkins Delafield of Sarepta, La. The maid of honor was the bride’s sister, Sara Josiah Hamilton was held on the patio. The Rev. Randy Sims officiated. The bride is the daughter of Mr. and Mrs. James Cuchens of Vestavia Hills. The groom is the son of Mr. and Mrs. Jack Marlowe, also of Vestavia Hills. Whitney Knight and Amy Snyder were maids of honor. Bridesmaids included Sara Cooper, Lauren Bond, Whitney Brown and Lindsey Fowler. Alex Speyer was the flower girl. Zach Fowler and Brett Barnhill were the best men. Groomsmen included Jack Marlowe, Jeremy Marlowe, Brandon Marlowe, Chris Cuchens, Brad Murphree, Blake Miner and Andrew Alkinson. Ring bearers were Browning Rhett Marlowe and J.J. Marlowe. Following a honeymoon trip to Montego Bay, Jamaica, the couple live in Chelsea.

Timothy Hugh Gannon of Dothan. The bride was given in marriage by her father. Attending the bride as maid of honor was her sister, Julia Drummond. Bridesmaids were Julie Boyd, Norma Boyd, Catherine Drummond, Claire Drummond, Brooke Fleming, Bethany Gannon, Walton Newman, Allison Pace, Regan Stevens, Natalie Summers and Lissa Handley Tyson. Flower girls were Olivia Amason and Caroline Cotter, nieces of the bride and groom. The groom’s father served as best man. The groom’s brothers, William Gannon and David Gannon, and the bride’s brothers, Justin Drummond and Brett Drummond, served as groomsmen. Other groomsmen included Matthew Ballard, Hardie Buck, Charlie Gray, Barrett Jones, Allen King and Claiborne Morris. A reception at the Country Club of Birmingham followed the ceremony. After a honeymoon in Jamaica, the couple live in Tuscaloosa.

THURSDAY, AUGUST 11, 2011 • 19

WEDDINGS & ENGAGEMENTS of Huntsville, and the matron of honor was Mrs. Matthew Michael Berry of Park City, Utah. Bridesmaids were Kathleen Anne McIntosh of Daphne, Courtney Drew Michelson of Mountain Brook, Axee Victoria Mullins of Huntsville and Leigh Elizabeth Walker of Brewton. Flower girls were Katherine Grace Jones and Hannah Brooke Jones of Madison. The groom’s father served as best man. Groomsmen were Zachary James Daniel, brother of the groom; Alexander Volentine Green and Robert Smith Hunter, all of Mountain Brook; and Jordan Tyler Beard and Joshua Charles Hughes, both of Birmingham. Ushers were Daniel Solomans Branum of Greenville; Hikel Alfred Boohaker and Frederick Bryan Darley III, both of Birmingham; and Matson Greer O’Rear, Erskine Ramsay III, William Archibald “Robb” Roberts and George Bradley Twitty, all of Mountain Brook. After a honeymoon to Anguilla, the couple will live in Mountain Brook.

Christopher-Briggs

Mr. and Mrs. Toliver Davis Christopher Jr. of Tamassee, S.C., announce the engagement of their daughter, Nora Lane, to Dr. Robert Stephen Briggs Jr., son of Mr. and Mrs. Robert Stephen Briggs of Birmingham. The bride-elect is the granddaughter of the late Mr. and Mrs. James Robert Moorhead of Anderson, S.C., and the late Mr. and Mrs. T.D. Christopher Sr. of Barnwell, S.C. Miss Christopher is a 2008 graduate of Samford University Brock School of Business. The prospective groom is the grandson of Dr. and Mrs. Robert M. Bryan of Birmingham and the late Mr. and Mrs. John Edward Briggs of Andalusia. Dr. Briggs graduated magna cum laude from Samford University in 2006 and is a 2010 graduate of the University of Alabama School of Medicine. He is a resident in internal medicine and pediatrics at Greenville Memorial Hospital in Greenville, S.C. The wedding is planned for Nov. 5 at Canterbury United Methodist Church in Birmingham.

Jayne-Houston

Mr. and Mrs. Chris Jayne of Hoover announce the engagement of their daughter, Natalie Marie, to Kevin Douglas Houston, son of Mr. and Mrs. David Houston of Heflin. The bride-elect is the granddaughter of Mr. and Mrs. Hubert Frost Jr., Dr. and Mrs. John H.

Bowron-Taylor

Marion Blakely Bowron and Riley Hill Taylor were married July 9 at the Cathedral Church of the Advent. The Very Reverend Frank F. Limehouse III officiated. The bride is the daughter of Mrs. Harold Alfred Bowron III of Mountain Brook and the late Mr. Bowron. The groom is the son of Mr. and Mrs. Riley Rousseau Taylor Jr. of Andalusia. The bride was given in marriage by her brother, Harold Alfred Bowron IV. Lillian Wakefield Bowron, sister of the bride, was maid of honor. Bridesmaids were Katherine Taylor Jones, Mary Caroline Taylor, Katherine Grayson Baugh, Elisabeth

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Jayne and the late Mary Sue Martin Jayne, all of Birmingham. Miss Jayne is a 2005 graduate of Hoover High School and a 2009 graduate of Samford University with a bachelor’s degree in communication studies and a minor in philosophy. She was a member of Alpha Delta Pi sorority. Miss Jayne will receive her juris doctorate from Cumberland School of Law in May 2012. The prospective groom is the grandson of Mrs. Elwanda Houston and the late Mr. Willie Houston of Cullman and Mr. Ralph Hill and the late Mrs. Mildred Hill of Lacey’s Spring. Mr. Houston is a 2002 graduate of Douglas County High School in Douglasville, Ga., and a 2006 graduate of Auburn University with a bachelor’s degree in finance. He is employed locally by Aliant Bank. The wedding is planned for Oct. 15 at Church in the Pines at Children’s Harbor. Whitney Crow, Bradley Elizabeth Fuqua, Lacy Williams Lavender, Frances Young Mosteller, Virginia Garland Quinn, Katherine Anthony Sasser, Lauren Northcutt Thomason, Margaret Grace Uber and Ellison Shields Uzzell. The groom’s father was his best man. Groomsmen were Harold Alfred Bowron IV, Thomas Reid Taylor, Frederick Wood Barnes III, John Patrick Caffey, William Austin Caffey, Algernon Sidney Coleman IV, Jacob Daniel Dyas, Christopher Allen Jones, David Earl Dickson Parsons, William Samuel Starr, Trey Mansfield Stewart, Travis Alexander Thompson and Ben Randolph Uzzell. After a honeymoon trip to Kauai, Hawaii, the couple live in Birmingham.

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20 • THURSDAY, AUGUST 11, 2011

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With the help of architect Chris Reebals, Tracey Gwaltney was able to transform this Vestavia Hills home into her dream house. The house overlooks the fourth hole of the Vestavia Country Club and offers Photos courtesy T. Scott Carlisle views of the creek, as well.

Taking in the View Vestavia Home’s Renovation Brings the Outside In BY LAURA MCALISTER JOURNAL EDITOR

hen Tracey Gwaltney began looking for a new home, a view was a must. However, she also wanted an open floor plan conducive to entertaining and lots of light. While the view was there from the start – her new home overlooks hole four on the Vestavia Country Club golf course, and a creek with a small bridge runs through the backyard – the rest would come later, about six months to be exact. That’s the time it took to totally transform the 1950s house she purchased into a 21st century home designed for entertaining and taking in the great views. “I just moved from right around the corner. I’ve always loved the location of this house,” Tracey said. “One day I drove by and just made an offer. I’m just crazy about this place.” When Tracey purchased the house about a year and half ago, she knew she’d be making some updates. She hired contractor Gary Smith, who then recommended architect Chris Reebals of Christopher Architects. “Three days later he (Chris) drew me up a beautiful picture, and before I knew it, it just took off,” she said.

Tracey Gwaltney and her son Andrew moved into their Vestavia Hills home about a year ago after six months of renovations. Journal photo by Laura McAlister

Chris said he wanted the house to fit in on the street, and he also wanted to keep Tracey and her 13-year-old son Andrew in mind when designing the space. While they could have torn down the whole structure and started from scratch, Chris said the foundation was stable, and they weren’t actually looking to add more space. They just wanted a more open feel. The first thing was literally to raise the roof of the house. “We realized that if we took the roofline up and saved the foundation, we could really get Tracey more bang for her buck,” Chris said. “We wanted to make the space they had more effective.” Since Tracey loves to entertain, they made the kitchen the center of the house. A wall was removed to open the space to the front entryway, as well as the dining room, sunroom and home office. The walls in the kitchen are white, as they are in the rest of the house. With the help of interior decorator Angel Davis, Tracey said, she kept the colors and decor very neutral inside to play up on the spectacular views outside. Tracey wanted floor-to-ceiling white cabinets in the kitchen, and an island serves as an area for prep work as well as seating. The island’s countertop is made of sweet gum that is now unstained. “We’re still trying to figure out the stain for this,” Tracey said. The hood over the gas stove is also white,

inside

Karen Bush’s Mountain Brook kitchen is beautiful, modern and flows easily with the rest of the house. However, it wasn’t always that way. See how she transformed the space in just a matter of weeks, page 22.

OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL

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THURSDAY, AUGUST 11, 2011 • 21

“I’ve always loved the location of this house. One day I drove by and just made an offer. I’m just crazy about this place.”

– Tracey Gwaltney

Left: The kitchen is all white like the rest of the house, and the sweet gum countertop of the island brings the outdoors in the house giving it a natural, open feel. Above: Tracey spends most her time in the sunroom, enjoying the views of the golf course. Photos courtesy T. Scott Carlisle

as is the subway tile backsplash. Chris said they added arched entryways “that Tracey liked” to the home office, dining room and sunroom, which is where Tracey spends much of her time, she said. There’s a small TV tucked in the corner of the sunroom, but this space is more for taking in the landscape, including the golf course and creek. Chris enlarged the windows in almost every room of the house to enhance the great views. Tracey also likes the addition of a fireplace, which has a limestone facade designed by Chris. “I just love that fireplace,” she said. “It’s so great to cuddle up to in the wintertime. Of course we love the backyard, too. It’s even beautiful in the wintertime.” French doors from the sunroom lead out to the backyard patio, where Tracey said she’s enjoyed hosting parties since moving into the house. Another room that’s great for entertaining is what’s been dubbed “the river room,” since the country club’s creek flows under it. Before the renovation, the large room was dark with stained wood walls and ceiling beams. Though Tracey said the room is still a bit of a work in progress, small changes made by Chris will make it a great place for hosting parties. “The walls were covered in a dark-stained pecky cypress,” she said. “He just flipped it over and gave it a real light stain, and it really works with the rest of the house.” The river room, located in the back of the house, used to have the only stairwell leading to the upstairs bedrooms. But that changed, too, during the renova-

tion. A staircase with decorative ironwork that can be more easily accessed was added in the front of the house. The upstairs has two bedrooms and has now become Andrew’s living space, complete with a bedroom and game room. The master suite is on the main floor. Tracey’s favorite feature there is the walk-in closet with built-in shelving and storage. While the inside of Tracey’s Vestavia Hills home has undergone dramatic changes, so has the outside. The leaded windows, designed by Charles Atkins Stained Glass, add to the curb appeal. The brick was painted white, and the raised roof gives it a European look. “The house definitely has a European influence,” Chris said of the design. “We wanted it to have curb appeal but not over the top, and we wanted it to fit into the neighborhood. We just took a simple, clean approach that worked.” ❖ ��

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22 • THURSDAY, AUGUST 11, 2011

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Karen Bush waited 10 years before renovating the kitchen in her Mountain Brook home. Now, everything is Journal photos by Emil Wald up-to-date, and she’s planning on hosting lots of parties using her new space.

Worth the Wait

BY LAURA MCALISTER

JOURNAL EDITOR

ver since her family moved into its Mountain Brook home, Karen Bush has wanted to update the kitchen. A decade later, she finally has. And if you ask her, the new space was well worth the wait. Kathy’s Designer Kitchens, Inc. “I’ve been wanting to do this 1831 29th Ave. S. • Homewood, AL 35209 for several years, but there was �� 205-871-9880 �� • Kathy Owens, CKD, President always something – the boys �� going to college, something,” �� Karen said. “Then, my husband said I could do it.” �� Though the renovation was a �� complete overhaul of the 1970sera kitchen, it took only a few �� months to complete. Thanks to the help of Colen Ramsey at Cabinet �� Systems South, Karen was able to find the updates she’d been eyeing �� all those years and now has her �� dream kitchen. �� The house is about 25 years �� old, though you wouldn’t know it

said. “That way, we knew it wasn’t a load-bearing wall and wouldn’t have any problems removing it.” When it came to the cabinets, Karen went with a custom Mouser, its new Centra line, in a dark stain. The U-shaped counter in the heart of the kitchen was replaced with a large island with bar seating, and the desk area was replaced with more cabinets. “The main thing she wanted was an open room with more storage,” Colen said. “I think we were able to accomplish that and a little ease of function.” Karen switched to a hooded gas Not only does Karen have more cooktop. Before, she was using an storage space, she said, but she electric one. also can access it more easily since the pantry has expandable pull-out upon entering the front door. But in the kitchen, the age of the home shelves. The granite countertops and had become obvious. The electronnew stainless steel appliances ics were old, and the light wood complete the updated look. cabinets and white laminate coun“We also went from an electric tertops were out of date. stovetop to gas, which is great,” Karen said the space was just Karen said. awkward, too. With three boys – Chris, Ben A small swinging door providand Allen -- as well as husband ed the only entryway to the rest of Tim, Karen has done plenty of the house from the kitchen, and a desk and light were the only things cooking since the family moved to their home a decade ago. Although on one wall, giving it an incomtwo of her sons have grown up plete look. and moved out, Karen suspects “It just kind of looked like with her new updates, she’ll be we stuck the desk there as an spending even more time in the afterthought,” Karen said. “And I kitchen. always had such a hard time find“I can’t wait,” she said. “I ing stuff in the old cabinets. They already have my first party were really deep.” planned. I intend to entertain a lot To open up the kitchen to the more.” rest of the house, Colen had a She also has her eye on a few wall removed. So now instead of more updates, and she doesn’t plan the swinging door, the entire livon waiting another 10 years for ing room is open to the kitchen. those. The old dated tile flooring was “I’ve already ordered a breakreplaced with hardwoods matching fast table, and I’m looking forthe floors in the rest of the house. “It really helped that we had the ward to getting curtains and new original plans to the house,” Colen stools,” she said. ❖

THURSDAY, AUGUST 11, 2011 • 23

SCHOOLS

OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL

back to school

Highlands School Prepares for the New School Year

ighlands School students will return Aug. 12 for an open house and begin school Aug.

15. This year, the school welcomes Robert McGehee as director of student services and Elise Blackerby as director of curriculum and instruction. McGehee, who comes to Highlands from St. Bernard School in Nashville, has spent 22 years in education. Blackerby has taught at Highlands for five years and before that for 26 years in the Mountain Brook school system. In June, many Highlands students participated in an experiential learning adventure in Costa Rica. Students and faculty members spent 10 days immersed in the language and culture of Costa Rica, with an emphasis on learning about the environment and conservation. This school year, each classroom will have state-of-the-art features. Teachers will continue to use interactive white boards and digital projectors to access a 20 mega-bit Internet connection and deliver media-rich, web-based instruction. Students in pre-K, kindergarten and first grade will use iPads to reinforce their spelling, reading and math learning. All students will use Mac OSX and Windows 7 on the newest Macbook Pros. Also, iPod Touches will enable teachers and students to document and share their experiences with quick pictures and

Jake Berg Wins Gwin Honor

At the end of each school year, Gwin Elementary fifth grade teachers choose a student who represents the qualities of hard work, respect, and responsibility exhibited by Harriette Gwin, for whom the school was named. Assistant principal Sandy

Highlands School will make use of its 12-acre campus to take learning outdoors this school year. Outdoor learning opportunities are included in all subjects at the school.

Photo special to the Journal

video. Because the school has a 12-acre campus, it maximizes experiential learning opportunities with outdoor instruction in all subjects. This year the school will focus heavily on character education by continuing with its Character Counts curriculum, promoting trustworthiness, respect, responsibility, fairness, caring, citizenship and other qualities.

Ritchey presented fifth grader Jake Berg with the award May 5. During the ceremony, a video presentation of praises from teachers and administrators who have worked with Jake through the years was shown. The boys’ and girls’ choir, led by Carlee Green, performed. Gay Gwin Fowler, Harriette Gwin’s daughter, attended the ceremony to celebrate with Jake. ❖

Shelby Superintendent Wins Marbury Award

Shelby County Superintendent Randy Fuller was recently awarded the 2011 Marbury Technology Innovation Award for Central Office Leaders. The award was presented June 15 at the Alabama Educational Technology Conference at the Birmingham Jefferson

Start the School Year off Right! Get your school noticed in the Journal. Just send school news and pictures to editorial@otmj.com.

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Civic Center. Nominees were judged on innovation and creativity, impact on teaching and learning, leadership, teamwork and scholarship. Fuller was nominated by Susan Poling, the system’s technology coordinator. Some of the technology initiatives and accomplishments listed in Poling’s nomination were Fuller’s establishment of a 21st Century Committee and i•am21, a year-long technology-focused professional development study for more than 200 system administrators. The 21st Century Committee sets goals, develops strategies and promotes 21st century teaching and learning. This effort resulted in upgrading more than 500 classrooms with equipment. It also helped increase administrators’ overall understanding of the technology skills needed by students and increased the frequency, quality and variety of technology integration throughout all Shelby County schools. Fuller was also instrumental in creating the My Future Project website for high school students in conjunction with regional work force development. He established the My Future Project committee, which is devising new opportunities for students to set life goals. This project relies heavily on the integration of technology as a resource for students and includes students building digital portfolios. ❖

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Winning an award that honors Harriette Gwin was Jake Berg, here Photo special to the Journal with Gay Gwin Fowler, Mrs. Gwin’s daughter.

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24 • THURSDAY, AUGUST 11, 2011

SCHOOLS

OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL

OTM Cheer, Dance Teams Take Top Honors at Camps Rebelettes Win Dance Camp Honors

Above: Varsity Rebelettes participating in dance camp this summer were: front row, from left: Sydney Brown, Chandler Kitchens, Caroline Smith, Lindsey Conry, Loren Roth, Emily Pilkerton, Haley Evans and Maria Inman. Back row, from left: Sarah Corinne Shotts, Erin Kahn, Lauren Reeder, Cameron Carter, Barbara Thornton, Caitlin McCallum, Anna Donze, Leah Dennis, Anna Scott Welch and Hannah Moss. Photos special to the Journal

The Vestavia Hills High School Rebelettes dance team recently returned from dance camp with several awards. The Rebelettes attended the National Dance Academy camp in Guntersville in June. The junior varsity team won Superior Showmanship, Superior Team Dance, Silver Team Dance, Spirit Stick and the NDA Staff Team Award. The varsity team won Technical Excellence, Home Routine Superior, Technical Excellence Home Routine, Superior Team Dance, Gold Team Dance, a bid to Nationals and Spirit Stick. Rebelettes named to the All-American team were Emily Pilkerton, Maria Inman, Sydney Brown, Anna Donze, Chandler Kitchens, Rachael Snow and Allison Howell. Top Gun winners were Curran Umphrey for Kick, Anna Donze for Turns and Rachael Snow for Hip Hop.

Hoover High’s Buccanettes won several awards at summer dance camp. Team members include, from left, front: Claire McCluney (co-captain), Tinsley Roberson, Brooks Cochran (captain), Lizzy Choi, Taylor Cos, Taylor Keith and Francie Harris (co-captain). Second row: Elizabeth Taylor, Jaslyn Jackson, Olivia Butler, Kathryn Dinsmore and Kaylyn Williams. Back: Madeline Keeney, Stephanie Irving, Mickenzie Keith, Cathleen Thomas, Madison Tucker, Jackie Smith and Morgan Todd. Photo special to the Journal

Pizitz Cheerleaders Attend UCA Camp

Junior Varsity Rebellets at the camp were in front, from left: Emily Brock, Cailyn Levant, Abigail Debardeleben, Jane Thornton, Emily Lytle, Rachael Snow, Maria Christine, Anna Watts, Olivia Spurlock and Mary Kate Smith. Back row, from left: Pate Hudson, Maggie Sappington, Gianna Blaudeau, Margaret Ann Vice, Kathryn Kennedy, Allison Howell, Haley Dellacio, Curran Umphrey, Bailye Holston and Photos special to the Journal Kate Bryan.

Pizitz eighth grade cheerleaders are, from left, front: co-captain Ashlyn Lovell, captain Taylor Trowbridge, captain Elson Stewart and co-captain Kaylie Anne Costa. Second row: Frances Abbott Knox, Libby Dyess, Lexie Faris, Barrett Harris and Paige Castleberry. Back row: Abigail Albritton, Margaret Farris, Grace Redden and Catherine Carroll. Photo special to the Journal

The 2011-2012 Pizitz Middle School cheerleaders attended the Universal Cheerleaders Association BAMA 1 Camp at the University of Alabama in June. Both the seventh and eighth grade squads received top honors. The seventh grade squad won superior ribbons in extreme routine and cheer. It also received a second place trophy in Home Pom in the large group middle school division and a fourth place trophy in extreme routine. The eighth grade squad won first place camp champion overall for extreme routine, a third place trophy for cheer and a third place trophy for Home Pom in the small middle school division. The group also got a superior rating for its fight song plus an overall superior trophy. Pizitz cheerleaders earning individual honors included Catherine Carroll, first runner-up in the camp junior varsity jumpoff. Abigail Albritton, Alexandra Casanova, Kaylie Anne Costa, Lexi Faris, Margaret Farris, Hope Henson, Abby Mashburn, Grace Redden and Elson Stewart were selected as All-Americans.

Buccanettes Win Dance Camp Honors

The 2011-2012 Hoover High School varsity dance team earned several awards at a Universal Dance Association (UDA) camp they attended in

Members of Hoover High School’s Freshman Dance Team, who won several honors at a UDA summer camp, include, from left: Maggie Applebaum, Morgan Creech, Danner Bagby, Margaret Dwyer, Hannah Kuykendall, Carlena Wyatt, Mary Beth McClung and Paris Sanders. Photo special to the Journal

June. The Buccanettes won third place in the home routine competition. The team also received a superior rating for its work at the camp, the Drill Down award and a spirit stick for demonstrating leadership and positive attitudes. All members received blue ribbons for dances learned and performed during camp. Dance team members are captain Brooks Cochran, cocaptains Francie Harris and Claire McCluney, Olivia Butler, Lizzy Choi, Taylor Cos, Kathryn Dinsmore, Stephanie Irving, Jaslyn Jackson, Madeline Keeney, Mickenzie Keith, Taylor Keith, Tinsley Roberson, Jackie Smith, Elizabeth Taylor, Morgan Todd, Madison Tucker and Kaylyn Williams. Seniors Cochran, Cos, Harris,

McCluney and Roberson were named UDA All-Americans. Team coach is Charity Jones.

Hoover Freshmen Earn UDA Awards

The 2011-2012 Hoover High School Freshman Dance Team earned several awards at a Universal Dance Association camp they attended in June. The team won a superior rating for its work at the camp and a spirit stick for demonstrating leadership and positive attitudes. Team members are Maggie Applebaum, Danner Bagby, Morgan Creech, Margaret Dwyer, Hannah Kuykendall, Mary Beth McClung, Paris Sanders and Carlena Wyatt. Charity Jones is the team’s coach, and Jennifer Johnson is the sponsor. ❖

SCHOOLS

OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL

THURSDAY, AUGUST 11, 2011 • 25

Generations Meet to Whip up Treats

BY MATTHEW TERWILLIGER JOURNAL INTERN

More than 50 people attended the Bards of Birmingham’s first Renaissance Feaste July 23 at East Lake United Methodist Church. The young actors played the parts of royalty and servants for the evening.

Young Birmingham Area Actors Gather for Renaissance Feaste

The Bards of Birmingham, a non-profit organization that seeks to inspire and empower young people through Shakespearian theatre, held its first Renaissance Feaste July 23 at East Lake United Methodist Church. More than 50 guests gathered for and evening of Renaissance food and exceptional entertainment in the company of British Royalty. The event was hosted by King Henry VIII, played by Tanner McCracken; Anne Boleyn, played by Jessica Walston; Queen Katherine of Aragon, played by Mavis Scully; Cardinal Wolsey, played by Mitchell Nash; Charles Brandon, played by Steve Cullen; Herald, played by Katherine Coulter; Princess Mary, played by Abbe Coulter; Jane Seymour, played by Angela Barnhart; Mary Boley Carey, played by Noelle Gunn; and Lady Brandon, played by Victoria Boyce. The guests were served a three-course meal prepared by “chefs” Nina Halbert, Pam Walston and Laura Coulter. They were served by Renaissance wenches Melissa Halbert, Linsey Martin, Preslie

Photo special to the Journal

and Summer Sanders and were assisted by LaSherree Davis. The evening’s entertainment began and ended with Middle Eastern dances by Morgan Walston. Guests were treated to a tumbling routine by Sidney Buckingham, Lexie Jackson and Esme Hill; a song and dance by Guinevere Scully; an Irish step dance by Elizabeth Piatt; Shakespearean monologues by Melissa Halbert and Victoria Boyce; and the music of Laura Coulter, Steven Cullen and Tanner McCracken. Guests were also entertained by an authentic Mummers play staring Abbe and Catherine Coulter and Katie Popple and Dorian Davis. The entire event was directed by the Bards founding director, Laura Coulter, and featured the handmade costumes of Laura Coulter and Nancy Popple. All proceeds from the event will help the Bards of Birmingham continue to offer classical theatre experiences to all young people of the Birmingham area. Auditions for the Bard’s next production, Richard III, will be Aug. 20 at 1 p.m. at East Lake United Methodist Church. For more information on auditions or how to get involved with the Bards of Birmingham visit http://www.bardsofbirmingham. com/home.html. ❖

Virginia College is hiring!

Virginia College, Online Programs continues to grow and change students’ lives. Our mission is, in part, to provide high quality, career focused educational services to a diverse student population in a dynamic, growth oriented setting. If you have a passion for helping college students change their lives and if you would like to be a part of an expanding college with its face to the future, please contact us, now. Please send your letter of interest and resume to: vcoresumes@vc.edu

esidents of Somerby at St. Vincent’s One Nineteen Senior Living Community and Boy Scouts from Troop 119 are teaming up to make dog treats for local animal shelters. The seniors and scouts have cooking sessions twice a week at Somerby. So far, more than 6,000 dog treats have been made in the month that the volunteers have been baking. Jennifer Miller, Shelby County Humane Society executive director, is thrilled to partner with the program to help shelter dogs. “The biscuits are a great resource for us, because with our limited funds we can’t go out of our way to get dog treats,” she said. Right now, the treats are being shared between the Birmingham and Shelby County Humane Societies. Somerby hopes to extend the project to its other three senior living facilities in Mobile, Alpharetta, Ga., and Mt. Pleasant, S.C. The Troop 119 scouts “adopted” the senior citizens at Somerby and work on projects with them throughout the year. The scouts attend Hoover, Oak Mountain, Spain Park and private schools. Eagle Scout Andrew Tucker of the Brook Hills Scout Troop is in charge of the project and came up

Helping make homemade dog treats for shelter dogs were from left: Richard Cunningham, Matthew Edwards and Peyton Spencer. Journal photo by Matthew Terwilliger

with the dog treat recipe after doing his own Internet research. According to Sarah Thorne, independent living coordinator at Somerby, the project is a great intergenerational opportunity. “It’s been neat seeing everyone get involved and having fun,” she said. ❖

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Jorge Abelar Charles Abele Mac Abele Gabe Adkins Jacob Aikins-Addo Madilynn Albright Hannah Alford Daniel Alford Hunter Allison Alexis Anderson Avery Anderson Davis Anderson Flora Anyiko Hundon Arnold Davis Arthur Brady Ash Boone Aycock Banks Aycock Miller Backus Holland Backus Connelly Backus Eleanor Bagby Taber Bailey Erinn Baker Jacob Baker Daphnee Baldwin Aaliyah Barber Eli Bare Roscoe Bare Henderson Bare Megan Barnett Caroline Barnett Nicholas Barnette Hannah Barnette Eva Barnhart Jessica Barr Jack Barron Madeline Barron Christian Baylon Kailynn Bell Layla Berry Maria Betsch Kristlyn Bosha Danielle Bosha Aimee Box Clemente Brannon Maleah Braswell Annabelle Bridges Chloe Brown Taylor Brown Rachel Brown Harrison Brown Louis Brown Holly Brown Jada Bryant Mallory Bullock Nathan Bullock Abbie Bullock Kayden Bungo Austin Burke Andrea Burris Manon Burris David Burris Madison Bussey Gigi Byars Lula Byars Alice Byars Sam Calma Sofia Calma Ava Canterbury Abby Canterbury Elizabeth Caputo Courtney Caputo Parker Carlson Ann Carter Carlson

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Laura Beth Hamff Jack Hanaway Elizabeth Hanaway Andy Hanaway Mary Patton Hand Laurel Hand Luke Hand Mark Hand Sanders Hand Wilson Hand Millie Hard James Hard Mason Hardin Drew Hardin Alex Harris Patrick Harris Michael Harrison Gaines Hartley Butler Hartley Charlie Hartley Rylee Hayes Maggie Hayes Mary Caroline Heath Mary Erwin Henderson Claire Hendrickson Stephen Henniger Zachary Henry Faulkner Hereford Patrick Hereford Anna Herndon Amy Herndon Drew Herndon Alex Herndon Jason Herring Shawn Herring Abby Hester Ellie Hicks Amy Grace Hill Robyn Hill Ella Holt Mia Holt Georgia Hontzas Constantine Hontzas Olivia Hontzas Brody Hood Hayden Hope Davis Housman Henry Housman Sam Housman Kaylyn Howard Emily HubertWallander Avery Huffstutler Bradley Huffstutler Jackson Hughes William Hurley Peyton Hurst Garrett Hurst Hudson Jackman Carter Jackman Olivia Jacobs Lacy Jeffcoat William Jemison Morgan Jemison Forrest Jinks Abby Jones Lucy Jones Emma Claire Jones Fabian Jones Zoeh Jones Alex Kamau Drew Kaufmann Abigail Kaufmann John Keith

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Sam Stanley Riley Stanley Dalton Steadman Will Stephens Ann Catherine Stephens Ronezz Stevens Markezz Stevens Quintezz Stevens Meredith Stringfellow Henry Tabb William Tabb Abigail Taylor Scooter Thomas Amaris Thomas Peter Thomas Ann Thomas William Thomas Adam Thomas Derrian Thompkins Ashley Thompson Allison Thompson Emily Thompson Andrew Thompson Heather Thompson Lily Thompson Cate Thoss Paulix Thrasher Paul Tierney Ben Tierney Matthew Tinker Andrew Tran Kenny Tran Erin Tucker Kendall Tucker Brady Veazey Lindsey Waldheim Levi Wasilewski Carolyn Watson Jacob Weinacker Kennedy Weismore Kloe Weismore Sally Ann Welborn Gavin White Mabrey Whitehead McKenzie Whitehead Kylie Williams Jordan Williams Troy Williams Marissa Williams Royce Williams Naja Williams Virginai Wilson Jessica Wilson Audrey Wilson Madeline Wohlfarth Kady Wohlfarth Lucy Woodke Ann Woodke Will Woodke Juwayriah Wright Jameelah Wright Sahlah Wright Asiyah Wright Jennifer Yarbrough Caleb Young Mushaba Zulu Mutwa Zulu

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26 • THURSDAY, AUGUST 11, 2011

Birmingham Swim League Makes a Splash at Southeastern Championships

SPORTS

OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL

t the recent Southeastern Swimming Championships in Knoxville, Tenn., the Birmingham Swim League had three individual event winners, three swimmers selected to the Southeastern Swimming All Star Zone Team, and three swimmers qualify for USA Swimming National Championships and Junior National Championships. Caroline Causey won the 10under girls 100 butterfly; Will Freeman won the men’s 1500 freestyle and Wilson McCraw won the 10-under boys 50 breaststroke. BSL senior swimmers Angelica Chapman, Corey Holmes, and Madeline Held were selected for the Southeastern Swimming All Star Team which competed at the Southern Zone Championships at the end of July. In the first two weeks of August, BSL’s Genny Pittman will compete at USA Swimming’s National Championships, while teammates Mallory Mathias and Will Freeman will compete at the Junior National Championships. Both events will be held in Palo Alto, Calif., at Stanford University.

From left: Madeline Held, Corey Holmes and Angelica Chapman.

Birmingham Country Club Team Wins State Tennis Title

The Birmingham Country Club 12-under Intermediate Team won at the Alabama State Junior Tennis Team Championships in Auburn defeating teams from Mobile and Tuscaloosa. The team played boy and girl singles, boy and girl doubles and mixed doubles against other teams. The BCC team won with 129 games followed by Mobile with 115 and Tuscaloosa with 81 games. Team members playing in Auburn were: Ann Vandevelde, Liz Vandevelde, Courtney Clark, Whitton Bumgarner, Haskins Jones, Harrison Clark, Stuart Phelan and Porter Phelan. William Lineberry and Rob Jolly were unable to attend but the entire team plans to play at Sectionals in August.

From left: Mallory Mathias, Will Freeman and Genny Pittman

Homewood’s Hannah Norris Makes History

Hannah Norris, Homewood High School graduate, class of 2011 received a sand volleyball scholarship to Stetson University in DeLand Fla., This is a first for Homewood High School and for the state of Alabama. This is the first year the NCAA has accepted sand volleyball as a competitive sport. Hannah was a member of the Homewood varsity volleyball team for four years and played club ball for Birmingham Volleyball Club.

Shades Mountain Black Claim Metro Tournament Title

Joining Hannah, front row center, at her signing are, from left: Coach Brand, assistant varsity volleyball coach, and Coach Burke, head volleyball coach. Standing is Coach Chesnutt, retired this past Spring as head volleyball coach at Homewood High School.

The Shades Mountain Park 9-Year-Old American Black All-Stars, coached by Head Coach Bill Deery, recently won the Metro Baseball Tournament. Team members are, front row, from left: Cole Edgeworth, John Michael Williamson, Moose Deery, Cooper Prince, Cade Davis, and John Cox. Standing, Ethan Pomeroy, Jordan Brewer, Brendan Murphy, Brodie Watson, Jeppa Kilgore, and JD Smitherman. Back, Coach Jerry Brewer, Coach Bill Deery, Coach Jason Watson, and Coach Barrett Edgeworth.

MBSC, from back cover

equipment for the volleyball, football, basketball, wrestling, track, baseball, soccer, golf and tennis programs at MBHS and MBJH. Since it was formed, MBSC has spent some $3,000,000 on facilities and equipment at both schools. In addition to its annual fundraisers, MBSC accepts charitable contributions from the public. Donors can designate the sport that will benefit from the contributions. The group has started an endowment fund to provide

Taking top honors in the Mountain Brook Sports Corporation golf tournament were, from left: Mike Morrison, Thomas Twitty, Hunter Twitty and Tom Twitty. long-term financial stability to the athletic programs. For more information about Mountain Brook

Sports Corporation, call Mike Morrison at 870-3257 or Doug Centeno at 2788000.

Shades Mountain Nationals Win Metro Championship

The Shades Mountain 9-Year-Old Nationals finished the Metro All-Star Tournament with an undefeated record of 9-0. Shades Mountain won an exciting championship game against the Mountain Brook Nationals with a final score of 6-1. Team members are, front row, from left: Colton Davis, Davis Young, Luke Tulloch, Brody Moss, Cooper Tullo, and Carter Wright. Standing: Matthew Whatley, Jonathan Skurstenis, Jake Willett, Lawrence Hammonds, Kole Roberts, and Colby Davis. Head coach is Craig Moss and assistant coaches are Rick Davis and Russ Davis.

OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL

Peterson, from back cover

Fortunately, Peterson’s bad luck with injuries in high school didn’t carry over when she went to UAB. “It’s a funny thing, after all those injuries in high school, I never had an injury in college,” she said. Peterson’s greatest on-the-court legacy at both Homewood and UAB was her uncanny knack for sinking shots from beyond the three-point arc. In addition to breaking school and conference records, she shot an impressive 39 percent from the three-point line in her senior season as a Lady Blazer. Peterson said there was no magic formula to her long-range shooting success. “I wish I could say there was a magic formula,” she said, laughing. “It was good old-fashioned repetition and hard work, start-

Hannah, from back cover

14. Collier earned her way into the U.S. Amateur field by firing an even par 72 to finish in third place out of 69 competitors at the Ansley Golf Club’s Settindown Creek course. “It’s a great thrill just to qualify for such a big event,” said Collier, when contacted last week. “I’m pleased with my all-around game right now. Hopefully, I’m peaking at just the right time.” The tournament will be stroke format for the first two days and then switch to match play for those who survive the second round cut. “I haven’t been in match play competition all that much,” she

August Practice, from back cover

of the popularity – and revenue generation – of the post-season playoffs. What would be realistic, however, is moving practice back a couple of weeks so the championship games could be played about a week before Christmas. There would be various kinks in such a plan that would have to be worked out (such as giving playoff-bound teams the option of dropping their final regular season game), but it could be done. Any plan that pushes back the start of practice to keep it out of the full brunt of August is well worth any glitches that could arise. But that’s another issue for another day. What’s certain is that this year’s crop of football players is working in one of the hottest summers on record, with only an occasional morning or afternoon

ing in high school. I’d get to the gym before school with Nivada Spurlock, my coach at Homewood, and practice shooting. I’d do the same thing in the afternoon, even if it wasn’t basketball season. “After a while, it became muscle memory. There’s no substitute for repetition and consistency.” Peterson had a busy summer getting ready to leave for Duke and working as a counselor at Fellowship of Christian Athletes camps. She also works as a volunteer at the Dream Center, an inner-city program of her church, the Church of the Highlands. Two summers ago, Peterson went on a mission trip to Brazil, working at an orphanage and running basketball camps for children. She plans to make a return mission visit to the South American country next summer. “Mission trips are great because I get a chance to share my faith and help others in a practical way,” she said. After graduate school, Peterson

THURSDAY, AUGUST 11, 2011 • 27

SPORTS

Amanda Peterson graduated from UAB in the spring with a 3.68 GPA with a degree in exercise science and was a three-time selection to the Conference USA All-Academic team. She leaves for Duke University this week to begin post-graduate work in physical therapy. Photo special to the Journal

would like to be involved with an athletic program at the college or high school level. “I think the fact that I have been an athlete myself would help me relate to other athletes,” she said. “I’d even love the chance to come back and work at Homewood.” Amanda Peterson won fame at Homewood and UAB by connecting on long shots. Her formal basketball career may be at an end, but she’s still sinking game-winners in life.

said. “But I really like it. With match play, you always have a chance to come back. One bad hole doesn’t ruin the entire round.” Collier’s play date in Rhode Island climaxes a freshman season in which she admits to spending a lot of time on the learning curve. “I had a bad fall season but a good spring,” she explained. “I really learned a lot from my teammates about the strategic part of the game. Sometimes they would question how I executed a particular shot and made suggestions how it could be better. They were very helpful and made me a better player.” The differences between the high school and college versions of competitive golf were apparent from the beginning. “Obviously, the talent level in

college is higher,” said Collier. “Everybody is a good player or they wouldn’t be here. “But there’s also the time factor. There’s almost no down time. You are eating, sleeping, studying, going to class or doing something related to golf.” Collier’s improvement in the spring season paralleled Alabama’s rise as a team. After finishing second in the SEC, Alabama won the NCAA East Regional at Daytona Beach’s LPGA International Course. Collier helped her team’s cause with an even par 72 on the regional’s first day. The Lady Tide ended its season with a strong eighth place finish in the NCAA Tournament at Bryan, Texas. “It wound up being a pretty good year,” said Collier. “We had

some young players and have a good recruiting class coming in, so we’ve got a chance to be better next season.” Not all of Collier’s memories of her freshman year involved golf. She happened to be on a golf course April 27, when Tuscaloosa was hit hard by a devastating tornado. “We were on the course when the sirens started going,” Collier recalled. “We left the course as quickly as we could and went to the study center at (Paul W.) Bryant Hall. The sirens kept going, but we were safe on the ground floor. We didn’t realize how bad the damage was until after it was over.” Collier’s goal for her sophomore season is to improve every aspect of her game. She sees the U.S. Women’s Amateur as a good barometer for how far she has

come. “I don’t know much about the course, except that it’s long – about 6,600 yards,” said Collier. “I’m stroking the ball well, so I feel good about my long game. It’ll be fun to see how I do.” One thing Collier hopes she won’t have to contend with in Rhode Island is the oppressive heat wave that has held a grip on the South in recent weeks. “There’s no way Rhode Island can be as hot as Alabama in August,” she said, laughing. Hannah Collier has weathered tornadoes, the heat and the ups and downs of being a freshman on the way to a successful first year of college golf. When she tees the ball up in the U.S. Amateur, she’ll be in familiar territory – playing to win a prestigious championship.

rainstorm providing any relief. With that in mind, let me make this point: Any athlete with the discipline and determination to go through football two-a-days is a very special and determined young man. This is true whether he is a blue chip college prospect or a lowly fourth teamer who has little chance of seeing game action. And while it may be politically incorrect to say this, I’m convinced that no athlete goes through more character-building adversity than a high school football player. Please don’t get me wrong. Lots of athletes in virtually every sport work incredibly hard year round. A top-flight high school competitor in any legitimate sport has to be an intense worker and a gifted athlete. But nobody else subjects themselves to the things that football players experience. No other athletes scrimmage or run wind sprints in temperatures that could

fry an egg on concrete. And football players do their thing while wearing several pounds worth of protective helmets, padding and equipment. They sweat and bleed for gridiron glory that may or may not come. Not only that, but football players go through their relentless grind for relatively few opportunities to show their stuff in real competition. High school baseball and softball teams may play more than 60 games in a season. Basketball teams often play more than 30 games. Soccer teams normally play at least 20 games. But the football teams that reach the Class 6A championship game will play only 15 games – and all others will play even fewer. Teams that don’t make the playoffs will sweat and suffer in the middle of August for the privilege of representing their schools only 10 times in the regular season. Again, I’m not saying this to diminish the efforts and achieve-

ments of athletes in other sports – they also are special. My only point is that if your son, nephew or next-door neighbor is going through summer football practice right now, he should be respected and applauded, regardless of

where he is listed on the team depth chart. If you think you’re hot when you go outside, just keep in mind the young men who are doing those agility drills in full pads.

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OVER THE MOUNTAIN

JOU RNAL THURSDAY, AUGUST 11, 2011

Three-Pointers

Sports

Birmingham Swim League Makes a Splash at Southeastern Championships. See page 26.

Former Patriot Amanda Peterson Ends UAB Career, Moves on to Duke

BY LEE DAVIS JOURNAL SPORTS WRITER

here seemed to be a recurring theme in Amanda Peterson’s years as a basketball player for the UAB Lady Blazers: three-pointers. On the court, the Homewood graduate set a UAB school record (for both men and women), with 319 career three-point baskets. That total included the 103 treys that Peterson sank in her senior season last winter, setting both school and Conference USA single-year marks. Along the way, she averaged 11 points a game and was named team MVP. Peterson led the Lady Blazers to a 20-15 worksheet, their first 20-win season since 2001. Peterson ended her basketball career with a splash. She connected on five three-pointers to score 15 points in UAB’s 68-60 win over Cal State-Bakersfield in the finals of the Women’s Basketball Invitational Championships in March. “This was a great way to go out,” said Peterson at the time. Three-pointers also characterized Peterson’s work efforts away from the court as well. She gradu-

ated in the spring with a 3.68 GPA with a degree in exercise science and was a three-time selection to the Conference USA AllAcademic team. Peterson leaves for Duke University this week to begin post-graduate work in physical therapy. Even though her official playing days are over, basketball will always be a part of her life, she said. “I’ll always love basketball,” she said, when contacted last week. “One reason I wanted to go into physical therapy was because maybe one day I’ll have the opportunity to work with a basketball team and help a player overcome basketball-related type injuries. And I’ll always play, even if it’s just in an intramural league.” Peterson’s first interest in sports therapy came at Homewood where, despite making the All Over the Mountain team twice, she constantly struggled with injuries. “I broke eight bones at one time or another in high school,” she recalled. “During that time I got interested in the work of doctors and athletic trainers. It made me realize how important they can be to an athlete.”

See Peterson, page 27

Lee Davis

Boys of Summer: August Practice Makes Football Players Special

See MBSC, page 26

Conference championships, as she helped the Crimson Tide to the runner-up position. Collier put together rounds of 76-70-71 to finish one over par. And after a strong showing in USGA qualifying in Roswell, Ga., in mid-July, Collier reached her biggest venue yet: the U.S. Women’s Amateur at Rhode Island Country Club, set for August 8-

See Hannah, page 27

See August Practice, page 27

Former Homewood standout Amanda Peterson set a UAB school record (for both men and women), with 319 career three-point baskets. Including a school and conference single-season record 103 treys her Photo special to the Journal senior year.

MBSC Raises $60,000 For Athletic Programs

Mountain Brook Sports Corporation (MBSC) raised $60,000 at its 13th annual golf tournament at Highland Park Golf Course in May. The charitable organization was formed to help fund the boys’ and girls’ athletic programs at Mountain Brook High School and Junior High School. More than 140 golfers participated in the tournament, including coaches, administrators, former players, parents and several avid golfers. Tournament winners were Mike Morrison, Thomas Twitty, Hunter Twitty and Tom Twitty. Proceeds from the event will be used to purchase equipment, build facilities and fund athletic programs. In the past, MBSC funded the construction of the football field house, the expansion and resurfacing of the track and the baseball field house. Recently, MBSC purchased

o how are you spending these brutally hot days of August? If you’re like most folks, you’re mainly trying to stay inside. Only people with outdoor jobs willingly brave the crushing heat of an Alabama August. There are exceptions, however. Most notable are those young men who, of their own free wills, choose to play high school football. For a full three weeks, they will practice – often in full gear – in 100-plus degree heat, doing things we older folks can’t imagine. It’s true that football players at all levels are practicing in intense heat. But for the NFL and colleges, the situation is a little different. In professional football, athletes are paid millions of dollars to put themselves through that agony. At the college level, most of the players are on scholarship, and practicing in the heat is how they are paying for their education. But the vast majority of high school players will not advance to the next level; they are out there strictly for the love of the game. And while high school coaches take great precautions to protect their players from problems associated with overheating, it’s impossible to make them totally safe. Just last week, three players at a private school in East Alabama went to a hospital emergency room because of heat exhaustion. Every year, there are disturbing stories around the country of young men dying from heat-related problems before, after or during football practice. In my last column, I made the case for pushing the start of high school football practice back to Labor Day and playing the first game on the third or fourth Friday in September. That will never happen, of course, because

Last spring, as a freshman at the University of Alabama, Hannah Collier finished in an impressive tie for sixth place in the Southeastern Conference championships.

Photo special to the Journal

Hannah, Rhode Island: Ex-Spain Park Star Qualifies for Amateur

BY LEE DAVIS

JOURNAL SPORTS WRITER

annah Collier knows a little about playing in big golf tournaments. As a junior at Spain Park back

in 2009, she won the state 6A individual title while helping the Lady Jaguars to a state championship. Last spring, as a freshman at the University of Alabama, Collier finished in an impressive tie for sixth place in the Southeastern