IN THE SMOOTHROCK GARDEN • HOW PIZITZ MIDDLE SCHOOL BUILT A WELL • MEET FIG TREE CAFE’S CHEF
FAIRWAY
FINDS HOW NEW MERKEL BECAME
CAHABA HEIGHTS
AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2018 VestaviaHillsMagazine.com Volume Two | Issue Four $4.95
TEEING OFF MARRIAGE ON THE PGA TOUR
Twenty-eight beautiful, wooded homesites have just been released in Willow Glynn, situated on the northern shoreline of Pitchford Hollow. Choose from a portfolio of thoughtfully-designed house plans from Russell Lands approved architects, designers and builders or bring your dream plans with you.
To
visit
or find out more, call 256.215.7011 or RussellLandsOnLakeMartin.com
VestaviaHillsMagazine.com 1
FEATURES
50
COAST TO COAST Francie Harris Kaufman talks packing, food finds, and the road that led both she and her new husband, Smylie, to life on the PGA Tour.
58
NEXT DOOR IN NEW MERKEL A history of Cahaba Heights told through the people who call it home.
FRUIT OF THE VINE Where do gardens, Christian missions, artisanal meals and… dermatology collide? In a sophisticated treehouse in Liberty Park. 2 VestaviaHillsMagazine.com
PHOTO BY EMMA SIMMONS
66
29
66 arts & culture
15 World in Watercolor: Architect-Turned-Artist Anne Corhern
schools & sports
21 Be the Drop: How Pizitz’s Water Focus Transformed Minds 28 Five Questions For: Books4Bham Founder Mei Mei Sun
food
& drink
29 On the Fig Tree: Chef Jon Holland’s Memory-Infused Dishes 37 Cocktail: Honeysuckle Watermelon Martini 38 Five Questions For: Roll Up Mastermind Ahmed Smadi
home
PHOTO BY MARY FEHR
in every issue 4 Contributors 5 From the Editor 6 VestaviaHillsMagazine.com 7 #VestaviaHillsMag 8 The Question 9 The Guide 74 Out & About 86 Marketplace 88 My Vestavia Hills
& style
39 To Rome with Love: Laura Merrill’s Mediterranean-Inspired Home 47 At Home: How to Create a Stunning Tablescape 48 In Style: Maximize Your Summer in Maxi Dresses
VestaviaHillsMagazine.com 3
contributors EDITORIAL
Graham Brooks Stephen Dawkins Alec Etheredge Briana Harris Amalia Kortright Madoline Markham Keith McCoy Emily Sparacino Neal Wagner
Jessica Clement, Stylist
Jessica Clement has been passionate about interior design and decorating since childhood. She graduated with a degree in interior design from the University of Alabama and started her own locally based design company, JMC Studio. As an interior designer, she believes that well-designed interiors should tell the story about the people who live there and takes pride in creating aesthetically beautiful and functional spaces.
CONTRIBUTORS
Mallory Barry Mary Fehr Amy Ferguson Madison Freeman Elizabeth Nance Emma Simmons Elizabeth Sturgeon Joe Tankersley Lauren Ustad
Madison Freeman, Stylist
Madison works as a clinical recruiter for Encompass Health and on the side is a fashion, home decor, travel and lifestyle blogger. To see all of her blog posts, visit insidemyopendoor.com or follow her on Instagram @mbbfreeman. In Madison’s free time, she loves to travel with her husband and spend time with their golden retriever, Luna.
DESIGN
Connor Bucy Jamie Dawkins Kate Sullivan
MARKETING
Kristy Brown Kari George Rachel Henderson Daniel Holmes Kathy Leonard Rhett McCreight Kim McCulla Nick McKnight Lindsay Milligan Viridiana Romero Kerrie Thompson
ADMINISTRATION Hailey Dolbare Mary Jo Eskridge Katie McDowell Stacey Meadows Tim Prince
Elizabeth Nance, Photographer
Elizabeth has been a photographer for six years, and has enjoyed working with Vestavia Hills Magazine since its inception. This fall she will be a freshman at Auburn University studying nursing, earning a minor in French, and incorporating her love of photography into both.
Joe Tankersley, Photographer
Joe is a photographer based out of Birmingham. He is currently enrolled at Vestavia Hills High School and brands himself as peachytalk photography. Joe plans to study and continue his passion for photography and art.
Vestavia Hills Magazine is published bimonthly by Shelby County Newspapers Inc., P.O. Box 947, Columbiana, AL 35051. Vestavia Hills Magazine is a registered trademark. All contents herein are the sole property of Shelby County Newspapers Inc. [the Publisher]. No part of this periodical may be reproduced without written permission from the Publisher. Please address all correspondence (including but not limited to letters, story ideas and requests to reprint materials) to: Editor, Vestavia Hills Magazine, P.O. Box 947, Columbiana, AL 35051. Vestavia Hills Magazine is mailed to select households throughout Vestavia Hills, and a limited number of free copies are available at local businesses. Please visit VestaviaHillsMagazine.com for a list of those locations. Subscriptions are available at a rate of $16.30 for one year by visiting VestaviaHillsMagazine.com or calling (205) 669-3131, ext. 532. Advertising inquiries may be made by emailing advertise@vestaviahillsmagazine.com, or by calling (205) 669-3131, ext. 536.
4 VestaviaHillsMagazine.com
from the editor
Y
ON THE COVER
Fairway Finds
Francie Harris Kaufman sits on a new patio at Vestavia Country Club, where her husband, Smylie, grew up golfing. Photo by Joe Tankersley Design by Connor Bucy
You might think the most important part of an interview is gathering information. But I’d argue that it’s listening. If I am not actively taking in what a person is saying, I can’t form follow-up questions to press into the next layer of the passion, profession or project they are describing. (Side note: Quality follow-up question asking is a life/friendship/quality person skill I’ll forever be indebted to my profession for equipping me with.) But beyond that, as an artist or homeowner jumps around from topic to topic I prompt them with, I am listening for a narrative that comes out of all the details and lists and stream of consciousness. I am listening for the most compelling scenes, say of the Pizitz assembly where students first put faces on the water crises faced in countries like Sudan and Uganda, or of the moment interior designer Laura Merrill looked at the Brady Bunch-style house her family had just purchased and cried (hint, hint of the pages to come), and I am listening for how the scenes fit together into a story. I can guarantee that if the text in this magazine just listed off the facts our writers learned from people, neither you nor I would want to read it. It’s narrative that makes a story a story. And everyone has one. I know when I think about my own life, I tend to fixate on what I need to get done today, why xyz thing is so hard, and if I can stay in the shower longer or eat dessert soon (#reallife). But when I reflect back on all the details of my life like I listen in interviews, a narrative also emerges. One of them started when my U.S. history teachers in high school sparked a love of the subject that led me to a history degree, which in turn sparked a passion for research and writing. Once I realized how that combined with how I really just wanted to edit yearbooks when I grew up, I ended up in journalism school. From there an interest in lifestyle magazines took me to Southern Living back in Birmingham. That was in the not-so-stellar economy of 2010, which led me to stumble into community news and the most meaningful work I’d ever done. From there I went back into magazine work, and from there I got to help start this lovely publication you have in your hands just over a year ago. What will I be doing in 10 years though? Your guess is as good as mine, other than I hope to still be telling stories. As Danish philosopher Søren Kierkegaard said, “Life can only be understood backwards; but it must be lived forwards.” And so as you read the narratives we have crafted of how study dates with a classmate with golf dreams led Francie Kaufman to today documenting life in the PGA tour with her new husband Smylie, and of how Fig Tree Café Chef John Holland’s flair for food started with his father’s mock-traditional Pad Thai as a 4-year-old, think back on your own life ramblings. There’s a narrative there too, and one worth taking a break from to-do lists and cravings to reflect on. And as always, I am eager to hear what ideas you have for other community stories we should tell. Thanks for reading!
madoline.markham@vestaviahillsmagazine.com VestaviaHillsMagazine.com 5
VestaviaHillsMagazine.com From Our Inbox So excited for this macaron shop to open! -Wendy Marcello on “Five Questions For Paulette Koumetz”
ONLINE EXCLUSIVE PHOTO BY KAREN ASKINS
Vestavia Hills Events not to Miss This Month What’s going on when and where? Find our full roundup of Vestavia’s best events online each month vestaviahillsmagazine.com/category/events/
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You dream of a place where the whole family has fun... 12 Month Trial Memberships Available Call 972-9000 or visit oldovertonclub.com for more information! 6 VestaviaHillsMagazine.com
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Tag us in your Vestavia Hills photos on Instagram, and we’ll pick our favorites to regram and publish on this page in each issue.
@4wornpassports
It’s not every day that you get to speak from the same podium as one of the people you admire most in the world! What an honor it was to meet former Secretary of State, Dr. Condoleezza Rice! She was gracious to spend her morning speaking to the kids at the opening assembly of International Day at @LibertyParkMS
@nick_p95
This amazing #vestavia high #prom couple @jakepratt90 & @grace.davis02 ❤#downsyndrome ❤ #prom2k18 #promdress #promdresses #thetwelfthyear
@staceygailanderson May Day Play Day 2018!
@rollup_bham
This fruity pebbles flavor will be in your dreams after you try it! #thaifriedicecream #rolledicecream #rollupbham #vestaviahills
VestaviaHillsMagazine.com 7
“ ” THE QUESTION
Vestavia is full of awesome streets and neighborhoods, but why do you love yours? Cahaba Heights on White Oak Drive. I like how everything is close to our house. My in-laws live just down the street. Police are active. & give tickets for speeding. - Bhornpithu Diggle
- Lee Ellen Grissom Sharp
Wexford Lane in Derby Downs. Our neighbors have taken our 3-year-old’s imaginary friend to the next level with postcards from “Bill the Giraffe’s” travels.
Countrywood. Although we have notes in our mailbox from someone wanting to purchase our home, I think these empty nesters will be here for a long time.
Squire Lane because you never know what wildlife you may cross paths with. Deer, bunnies and a fox all call it their street too.
I love Wedgewood Road because I can hear the kids laughing and playing on the playground at East and it’s close to everything.
Love Fox Glen Circle... great neighbors...have enjoyed watching the Prewitt boys baseball games in the front yard since they were little guys. Tanglewood has been home since 1974.
Buckhead! There’s a city-maintained trail running from the pool area, along the side of Little Shades Creek, to McCallum Park. We can access Andy’s Nursery and beyond.
- Anna Conley
- Jessica Wood Garrison
- Peggy Ogilvie
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Coventry is one of those neighborhoods where your children are gone in the morning and are back in the afternoon. You never worry where they are. You know they are with family.
- Kathy Mullis Smith
- Allison Evans Maners
- George Lawton
THE GUIDE
VHHS REBELS VARSITY FOOTBALL Bring on the Friday night lights. Don your red and blue, and we’ll see you at Thompson Reynolds Stadium. All games start at 7 p.m. Aug. 24: vs. Briarwood Christian (Jamboree) Aug. 31: vs. Homewood Sept. 7: at Spain Park Sept. 14: vs. Tuscaloosa County Sept. 21: at Mountain Brook Sept. 28: at Shades Valley Oct. 5: vs. Hewitt-Trussville Oct. 12: vs. Thompson Oct. 19: vs. Hoover Oct. 26: at Oak Mountain Nov. 3: vs. Huffman PHOTO BY KAREN ASKINS
VestaviaHillsMagazine.com 9
THE GUIDE WHAT TO DO IN VESTAVIA FRIDAYS Patio Party Live Music, Beer+Wine Tastings Diplomat Deli 6-8 p.m. AUG. 2+SEPT. 6 Read & Feed Book Group Call 978-4678 for info. Taziki’s Liberty Park 6:30-8 p.m. AUG. 3 First Friday Reception Artists Incorporated 4:30 p.m. AUG. 3+SEPT. 7 First Friday Fiber Arts Library in the Forest 10 a.m.-noon
SEPT. 8
HELPING HANDS IN THE HILLS STARTS AT WALD PARK POOL PAVILION 8:30 A.M.-NOON Give your neighbor a helping hand. Join the Vestavia Hills Chamber of Commerce and the city to assist with minor home projects for seniors, persons with disabilities and others with needs. The day kicks off with breakfast at Wald Park (oh yeah!), and lunch will be provided at the park after the projects. For registration information visit vestaviahills.org/helping-hands-in-the-hills.
KIDS CONSIGNMENT SALES It’s that time of the year. Stock your kids’ fall and winter wardrobe at one (or all) of these sales. Better yet, consign some of their clothes from last year, and you can shop early to call dibs on the best items. Market on the Mountain Mountaintop Community Church Sept. 21-22 Friday 9 a.m.-6 p.m., Saturday 9 a.m.-2 p.m. Whale of a Sale Vestavia Hills United Methodist Sept. 13-14 Thursday 5-9 p.m., Friday 9 a.m.-2 p.m. whaleofasale.blogspot.com 10 VestaviaHillsMagazine.com
AUG. 6+SEPT. 3 Knit Night in the Forest Library in the Forest 6-7:30 p.m. AUG. 8+SEPT. 12 ABCs of Medicare Library in the Forest 1-2 p.m. AUG. 14 Vestavia Hills Chamber of Commerce Monthly Luncheon Vestavia Country Club 11:30 a.m. AUG. 9 First Day of Schools Vestavia Hills City Schools AUG. 18-19 Mayhem on the Mountain Crossfit-Style Competition from Forge Fitness Oak Mountain State Park AUG. 17 Upcycle City: Adult Coloring Night Library in the Forest 7-8:30 p.m.
THE GUIDE AUG. 20 Open House Vestavia Hills High School AUG. 28+SEPT. 25 Anime Night For Grades 6-12 Library in the Forest 4–6 p.m. AUG. 31+SEPT. 27 Super Smash Bros. Tournament For Grades 6-12 Library in the Forest 4–5:30 p.m. SEPT. 7 First Friday Reception Artists Incorporated 4:30 p.m. SEPT. 3 Labor Day SEPT. 11 Vestavia Hills Chamber of Commerce Monthly Luncheon Vestavia Country Club 11:30 a.m. SEPT. 11 Patriot Day Ceremony with Cities of Homewood & Mountain Brook Vestavia City Hall SEPT. 18 Family Night with the DIY Magician Library in the Forest 6 p.m. Meal, 6:30 p.m. Show SEPT. 18 Fold N Fly For Grades 6-12 Library in the Forest 4-5:30 p.m. SEPT. 22 Lego Wars for Grades 1-6 Library in the Forest 11 a.m. SEPT. 29 ACT Workshop Registration Required Library in the Forest 1–3 p.m.
AUG. 11
BACK 2 SCHOOL IN THE HILLS FOX FIELD CAHABA HEIGHTS ELEMENTARY SCHOOL 6:30 P.M. There will be games and rides, music to dance to, and a movie on a lawn. And it’s free. Why wouldn’t you and your kids go? Let’s note the rain date just in case: Aug. 17.
AUG. 8 + SEPT. 12
TREEHOUSE POETRY READING SERIES LIBRARY IN THE FOREST TREEHOUSE 6-7:30 P.M Come out to the library on select Wednesday nights for live poetry readings. The August event will celebrate the release of Big Energy Poets: Ecopoetry Thinks Climate Change with readings from editor and poet Heidi Lynn Staples and poet Josh Dugat. The September event will feature local poets Ashley M. Jones and Alina Stefanescu. Plus, it’s free and open to all ages.
VestaviaHillsMagazine.com 11
THE GUIDE AROUND TOWN AUG. 3+10 Animal House (3rd) Rebel Without a Cause (10th) Alabama Theatre AUG. 3-4 Secret Stages Music Discovery Festival Avondale AUG. 5+12 The Good, the Bad, and the Ugly (5th) Gone with the Wind (12th) Alabama Theatre AUG. 9 Live at the Lyric: Big Bad Voodoo Daddy Lyric Theatre
FITNESS
GET FIT AT THE LIBRARY The Library in the Forest isn’t just about books. You can also catch hot yoga, tai chi and even belly dancing classes there. Here are the details to know about each. Hot Yoga in the Forest Aug. 3 & 4, 12-1 p.m. Observation Deck Join the experts from Kiva Hot Yoga for these introductory classes for beginners. Bring a towel, mat and water. Loaner mats are available. Ages 18+ and no registration.
levels. Free, ages 18+. Upcoming dates: Mondays, Oct. 15 and 29.
Fall Series: Beginner Belly Dance with Bethany Sept. 1, 6-7:30 p.m. Community Room Learn all about belly dancing, connect with your body, and have a great time! Suitable for all shapes, sizes and activity
Beginner Aug. 13+27, Sept. 10+24, 6-7 p.m. Community Room
Tai Chi This low-impact, slow-motion exercise is taught by a certified instructor. Registration not required. Open to everyone 18+.
Beginner and Intermediate Aug. 9+23, Sept. 13+27, 2-3 p.m. Community Room
AUG. 10-19 Birmingham Restaurant Week AUG. 14 Wiz Khalifa & Rae Sreummurd Oak Mountain Amphitheatre AUG. 14-18 Birmingham Barons vs. Tennessee Smokies Regions Field AUG. 20-26 Sidewalk Film Festival Downtown Birmingham AUG. 24-26 Rick & Bubba Outdoor Expo BJCC Exhibition Halls AUG. 24-28 Birmingham Barons vs. Jackson Generals Regions Field AUG. 31 Lynyrd Skynyrd: Last of the Street Survivors Farewell Tour SEPT. 6 Three Dog Night Alabama Theatre SEPT. 7 Steven Curtis Chapman SCC Solo
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THE GUIDE The Lyric Theatre SEPT. 7-9 PAW Patrol Live! Race To The Rescue BJCC Concert Hall SEPT. 13 Portugal The Man BJCC Concert Hall SEPT. 13 Bobby Horton Presents Songs and Stories of the Civil War Samford Wright Center SEPT. 13 ASO Unwined: Mendelssohn’s Italian Symphony Alys Stephens Center SEPT. 13-30 Hello, Dolly! Virginia Samford Theatre SEPT. 14 k.d. lang Alys Stephens Center SEPT. 21 Birmingham Does Broadway Alabama Symphony Orchestra Samford Wright Center SEPT. 21-22+28-29 At Home Presented by Alabama Ballet Alabama Ballet Center for Dance SEPT. 27-29 St. George Middle Eastern Food Festival St. George Greek-Catholic Milkite Church SEPT. 28 The Land of Yangalele Alys Stephens Center SEPT. 28 Tim Hawkins Live with Dustin Nickerson Samford Wright Center SEPT. 29 Irondale Whistle Stop Festival Historic Downtown Irondale
AUG. 1 + 8
THURSDAYS
SCOUT SQUARE
SAINT MARK UNITED METHODIST CHURCH 2901 OLD COLUMBIANA ROAD
VHUMC FARMERS MARKET 10 A.M.-1 P.M. The farm is coming to you. Make a stop right off Highway 31 at this new market location to shop seasonal vegetables, baked goods and fruits from local producers. It’s open Wednesdays this summer through Aug. 8. For more information, check out facebook.com/ VestaviaFarmersMarket/.
SAINT MARK UMC FARMER’S MARKET
4-6 P.M. Get your fruits and veggies! You’ll find many to choose from as well as homemade pickles, jams, jellies, local honey, all-natural dog treats for your little Fido and handmade candles that melt into a soothing body/hand lotion.
WEDNESDAYS STARTING SEPT. 5
HEALTH 101
VESTAVIA HILLS CIVIC CENTER 1:30-3:30 P.M. What have you always wanted to ask about health? Ask away at a new course through the Osher Lifelong Learning Institute of Greater Birmingham (OLLI), “Health: What You Wanted to Know But Didn’t Know Whom to Ask.” OLLI provides mature adults 50+ with social, education and travel opportunities. For the first class in this series, Tom Weida, MD will discuss healthcare
payment reform and the transition from volume to value-based payment and implications for future payment programs. The next two weeks Fred Ernst, MD will discuss anesthesia options, post-anesthesia issues and cognitive memory. On Sept. 26 Adam Gordon, MD will present on the eyes and eye care. To learn more, visit olli.ua.edu or call 205-348-6482. VestaviaHillsMagazine.com 13
Please Join the BBYA Compass Bank local team as we host our monthly socials, drinks and Hors d’oeuvres provided. Join your fellow business owners, expand your network, and grow your business!
Katrina Porter Designs Katrina Porter
Please Reply Rebecca Hughes Trifusion
Snoozy’s Kids George Jones
Mountain Brook
Chamber of commerce
14 VestaviaHillsMagazine.com
Bromberge's Ricky Bromberg
Eleven Eleven Meredith Fuller
Vino Al Rabiee
&CULTURE
ARTS
WATERCOLOR WORLD First an architect, then a mom, always an artist. Here’s how it all fits together for Anne Corhern. BY ELIZABETH STURGEON PHOTOS BY JOE TANKERSLEY VestaviaHillsMagazine.com 15
E
Elegant pearls were strung across her neck, high heels on her feet. Anne Cohern can still visualize her kindergarten teacher—and how she painted her teacher in the first piece of her art she can recall. Throughout her childhood, art was her form of communication, turning a blank page into something more with each detail. “Watercolor is almost like a language. It’s just how it flows out of me,” Anne says. “People ask me, and I don’t know if I could teach it.” Rich colors warm the thick white paper she uses for her paintings. Although watercolor often delivers a light and (wouldn’t you guess) a watery effect,
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Anne’s work diverges from that standard. Pulling one sketchbook from her collection she flips through the pages of her studies on space. She uses watercolor to paint the deepest, darkly vast skies that are spotted and textured with stars. Whites in the galaxies are soft, yet they blend into a pigmented black-blue beautifully. Churches and houses fill many of her commissioned paintings, so it makes sense that she has architectural background with the precision in every edge. “I missed my art. But I like the analytical side of science, and architecture let me meld everything together,” she says of her architecture
career. After graduating from Mississippi State and working for a few years, her husband’s job eventually moved them to Fairhope, which rekindled her love for drawing and painting. “Look at all these people who get to paint,” Anne remembers thinking as she was surrounded by galleries. Maybe she could do more than just paint churches as wedding presents for friends. So, she put time into art with classes and supplies, even while still managing the last of her architecture
exams and being a mom. In her den the heart of her Vestavia Hills home, she paints on her easel, fenced in by the streaming natural light from the door to her backyard. Her children know not to play with her good supplies, so she instead helps her almost-3-year-old son Christopher with his own Elmo watercolor set. And while her art career is taking off, she’s not missing an extra hour at the pool or a school field trip to catch the perfect lighting for her work space.
Anne painted a fountain outside Trinity United Methodist Church where her family attends church.
VestaviaHillsMagazine.com 17
ABOUT THAT TECHNIQUE If you’ve ever dabbled with watercolor, you know it takes control, patience and layer after layer of paint or ink wash. Anne was first introduced to the medium by a plein air watercolor painter Wyatt Waters in her hometown of Clinton, Mississippi. With that in combination with her art classes at Ole Miss, she created her technique: shadows first. Before any lighter colors, Anne puts in her darkest colors first, setting up the richness of how the paint looks on paper. “That helps me see the piece in my head.”
For her, it’s passion and an escape, an outlet more than a business. It’s starting to have more of a life of its own, she says, but she wants it to emerge organically. After showcasing work in her first show at Trinity United Methodist’s Art in the Lot two summers ago, Anne still feels new to the field. She might consider it a hobby, yet she pours in energy and detail into every commission and every idea. “I struggle with the legitimacy of defining myself as an artist. If someone asked me what I do, I’m a stay-at-home mom, and I was an architect before that,” she explains. “To come out and say ‘artist’ has a vulnerability.” Of course, her 6-yearold daughter Rebecca unwaveringly calls her mom an artist when someone asks. However she defines her artwork in her life, Anne finds much beauty in it. With a kind of mystery, painting contains feeling that cannot be explained with only words. She has a story behind every piece, both those 18 VestaviaHillsMagazine.com
Anne Corhern paints from a photo of her daughter on the beach in the living room of her Vestavia Hills home.
“
Watercolor is almost like a language. It’s just how it flows out of me. -Anne Corhern
”
VestaviaHillsMagazine.com 19
Anne’s portrait of her best friend Elizabeth’s parents.
her friends own and commissioned art from people she’s never met before. Some are more personal, especially the paintings that she creates to surprise other people, knowing it’s the perfect gift to give. She points to one photo of her best friend Elizabeth’s parents when they were traveling. When Elizabeth’s dad passed away from prostate cancer, Anne knew she’d have to paint this photo of the couple who had become her second set of parents since their seventh-grade friendship blossomed. “It was a way for me to express my love for all the years, all the meals, all the times I was 20 VestaviaHillsMagazine.com
picked up and the welcoming additional family they were,” she says. Faces brightened with laughter, the couple sits on brick steps leaned in towards each other. She painted the photo realistically—a scene lacking flashing color but filled instead with blacks, greys and blues. Yet you can still almost hear the laughter and experience the joy preserved in the image. “It’s how I think of our Sunday nights,” she says. Her watercolor captures that moment and speaks for itself: “There was nothing I could do, but it was the one thing I could do.”
SCHOOL
&SPORTS
BE THE DROP
How a yearlong focus on water at Pizitz built a well and transformed minds. BY MADOLINE MARKHAM PHOTOS BY ASHLEY PERRY AND CONTRIBUTED VestaviaHillsMagazine.com 21
“
When you provide water, you affect total life change. I can’t think of anything greater to accomplish at a young age. It’s empowering. -Teacher Diane McAliley
M
Months later, the Pizitz Middle School students could still recall the faces—faces not unlike their own, yet with a far different life story than theirs. They were the eyes and smiles of kids without access to fresh water, and the images that stayed in their minds as they learned that around 800 kids die every day from lack of clean water and as they watched an eighth grade football player carry a 5-gallon, 40-pound jug across their school’s gym— not an easy feat for even an athlete, but often a daily chore in countries like Sudan and Uganda. Sixth grader Ethan Raley called this assembly a “wow” moment, thinking back to the speaker from Birmingham-based Neverthirst in the fall of 2017. “I knew about people not having access to water, but I didn’t realize it was that bad,” fellow sixth
22 VestaviaHillsMagazine.com
”
grader Virginia Dove says. “It made me want to participate.” And participate they did—all as a part of a yearlong focus on water at the school dubbed Be the Drop that Fills the Bucket. One part of it was raising money to fund a well in northern Uganda by the end of the school year. Throughout the year Pizitz students bought tickets and baked goods at a robotics race, band concert, faculty-student volleyball challenge and a movie event. The Advanced Art and Eco Club made leaf silhouette bowls, the yearbook staff designed a T-shirt, and one seventh grade “team” of classes held a “change war.” “I think you could tell people were motivated when we did fundraisers to raise money,” Ethan notes. ”It made me happy to realize how many people actually cared about it.”
Pizitz students learned about world water issues at an assembly to kick off their yearlong fundraising and academic efforts.
Each penny they raised was a drop in the bucket, if you will. And as students saw photos hanging in the hallways similar to those they had seen in that first assembly, they remembered just what each penny was for. “When you walked past (these photos), it made you think about it,” eighth grader Corbin Maher says. The idea for the water project started in 2011 when sixth-grade science teacher Diane McAliley told students about wells she’d seen during a summer she spent in South Sudan. These students later made presentations to share what they had learned with other classes. One student in particular had been unmotivated in her class all year, but then this project came along. “It woke him up and made it come alive,” Diane says. “He
ended up making straight As the rest of the year.” That memory never left her. So when she came to Pizitz four years ago, Diane had a dream of a yearlong water focus stretching through academics and beyond. “We were aiming to get the kids to be aware and make a difference,” she says. “Kids this age want to know their life matters.” Grant money from the state funded water testing kits, class sets of books and other equipment for academic components, but most of the ideas came from within the school. Diane had encouraged fellow teachers to dream big about how to embed the theme in their standards, and then the students later dreamed up their own fundraisers. In sixth-grade science students took water VestaviaHillsMagazine.com 23
Pizitz students tested water samples and built water filters in science class.
samples from a nearby creek and grew cultures to test it. “The water was clear but when we tested the water there was a lot of bacteria,” Virginia recalls. “(In these African countries) the water looks really dirty and it’s even worse than that.” This class also designed and built their own water filters in plastic bottles using hay, gravel, sand, charcoal, cotton balls and coffee filters in plastic bottles. Likewise, eighth graders tested tap water for pollutants, pesticides and bacteria—and balanced equations with their findings. After learning about body systems, seventh graders acted as “doctors” as they researched and diagnosed foodborne illnesses based on patient cards they were given, and then they had to find a 24 VestaviaHillsMagazine.com
current news article about their particular issue, which brought news of E. coli outbreaks or flesheating bacteria closer to home. “It opened up their eyes to situations that could happen in their lives and the lives of people they know,” teacher Aimee Farrar says. “Within the context of the well project it allows them to see how things we can do can impact the whole world.” In social studies, students talked about how ancient civilizations grew up near water and collapsed in droughts. A coding class made games to educate about water issues. German students discussed the lead crisis in water in Flint, Michigan, and wrote letters to an elementary school there. In English, some students read A Long Walk to
HE HAS THE ABILITY TO KNOW EXACTLY WHEN HIS MOM NEEDS A REALLY BIG HUG— RIGHT DOWN TO THE SECOND.
CHILDREN A M A Z E U S E V E R Y D AY
and at Children’s of Alabama, we want to see every child grow up and live to their fullest potential. That’s why we recruit, train and retain the most inquiring minds, the most skilled hands and the most compassionate hearts in pediatric medicine. 1 6 0 0 7 T H AV E N U E S O U T H B I R M I N G H A M , A L 3 5 2 3 3 (205) 638-9100
Water, a book set in Sudan, and wrote dual narratives in the same style as the book. Aimee also shared in social studies classes about a mission trip she took to Malawi and the water issues she saw there. “My biggest soap box is the value of education and how lucky they are to get to go to school,” she says, noting that often it takes kids so long to transport water that they don’t have time for school. “I share some stories of the orphans who mention no
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Vestavia Pediatrics 1936 Old Orchard Road Vestavia Hills, AL 35216 (205) 978-3200
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food and no clothes and the only way they knew to get out was to get an education.” Likewise, along with academic water projects came a vision for something bigger at the school. “You want (students) to have a chance to focus on things that are bigger than themselves,” Diane says. “While sometimes we think (these students) are just looking at themselves or their friends, they are so generous and excitable about looking out for other people. You want them to take the idea and make it their own so it comes out in authentic situations.”
By the end of the school year, the school reached its goal. With the $8,100 they raised, Pizitz students funded a refurbished well in Uganda that had been broken since the ’80s. As Diane would say, it was “well done.” The well now serves 100 households, and most of them make five trips for water a day. That’s 500 buckets a day, and if the life of the well is 20 years, that’s “4.56 million buckets of water we raised by having fun and learning some stuff,“ Diane says. “When you provide water, you affect total life change. I can’t think of anything greater to accomplish at a young
Pizitz sixth graders test water samples at a nearby creek.
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THE SANDY WALDROP-PIZITZ MIDDLE SCHOOL WELL Completed February 2018 Kogbo, Yumbe, Uganda Through Neverthirst Testimonies from Local Residents: “My name is Silvia Karabia and I am 40 years old. For a long time we were collecting water from a stream far away. We would walk almost 4 miles to the water source and it would take us more than 2 hours a day. The taste of the water from stream was very bad. Sometimes we boil but sometimes no because it take long time. We have been affected by many waterborne diseases like diarrhea and vomiting after our well broke many years ago. We thank Neverthirst and the people who helped us get this well. Now we have clean water near our home and will not suffer from many diseases. Thank you.” “My name is Mauals Yabu and I am 37 years old. We know how much God loves us because we have a borehole now. We do not have to drink from stream far way and can collect water near our home. We will not suffer from diarrhea anymore. God bless you!”
age. It’s empowering.” The well now bears the name of Sandy Waldrop, a Pizitz librarian who was diagnosed with a lung condition right after the Neverthirst assembly last fall and passed away by the end of the year. Even as this dream has been brought to life, Diane is dreaming up future themes (the sun, perhaps?) and hoping to plan a trip to the well Pizitz funded in Uganda with other teachers and
document it with virtual reality technology they could bring back for Pizitz students to experience. And students are left dreaming too. Parker Fulton wants to bring shoes to people in countries like Uganda who don’t have them. Noah Evans is researching ways to desalinate salt water to bring fresh water to communities. And “being the drop that fills the bucket” is in the vocabulary—and mindset—of countless students.
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SCHOOLS & SPORTS
5
FIVE QUESTIONS FOR
Mei Mei Sun
Books4Bham Founder + VHHS Senior PHOTO CONTRIBUTED
More than 1,000 children’s books, vintage magazines and test prep materials piled up at Vestavia Hills High School last spring—but not for VHHS students. They were collected as part of a drive for Birmingham City Schools spearheaded by senior Mei Mei Sun. It was the start of a nonprofit she’s dreamed up, Books4Bham, now replete with its own website, books4bham.org. Mei Mei is quite articulate talking about her passions, so read on. Tell us a little about yourself. I was born in Yokohama, Japan to Chinese parents. We’ve lived all over the place: from Iowa City to Charlottesville to Cupertino to settling down in Vestavia Hills. Because I’ve lived in so many places and met so many people, I’ve developed a complete fascination with the human condition: every aspect from folktales to slang to grief to foods. This interest drives my desire to learn about others: their lives, their communities, their cultures, their struggles and their triumphs—and how to change for the better. That’s where my participation in writing and debate bridges the gap. By learning to be an excellent communicator, people are willing to reveal more of themselves–and that raw, unfiltered viscerality is the lifeblood that makes existence worth it.
institutions with extremely limited resources to its pupils. I often marvel at the stark inequalities that define Chinese schooling, and the population’s reluctance to transform it. I attributed its de facto unfairness to the uneven processes of revitalization the Chinese government imposed on the northeast regions. When I later immigrated to the United States, I was shocked by how remarkably similar the educational systems were. The quality and availability of education here is hideously inequitable. I wondered how could this continue to happen in the golden land of success. In a way, creating Books4Bham was my way of realizing the American dream: an attempt to level the playing field for both myself and others who face insurmountable barriers to success.
give back to the city that has given me so much, it would bring me huge satisfaction to say that we’ve reached more students.
Is there a message you’d like community members to know? Be proactive. Throughout my life, I have learned that nothing will ever become substantially better unless YOU make it so. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. once stated that the arc of the moral universe is long, but it bends towards justice. It’s up to us to ensure that equality is secured for every individual on the planet. What are your future plans? I’d like to first go up North or out West for college. Then on to humanitarian aid on the international scale: working at the UN perhaps, or joining the Peace Corp. I know Where do you see this organization that I will eventually return to the Deep South. My specific areas of interest span Why were you inspired to create going in the future? wide: from minority youth empowerment I’d love to expand our mission to more Books4Bham? to suicide prevention to promoting schools. I’ve been reaching out to more As a child, I was raised by my grandmother in an impoverished district rural schools in Central Alabama and am inclusivity to affordable education to of Liaoning in China. I attended local waiting to hear back. While I based the immigrant rights to coalition building to inner-city elementary schools, all rundown organization in Birmingham in an effort to bridging the gap to grassroots activism. 28 VestaviaHillsMagazine.com
&DRINK
FOOD
ON THE FIG TREE
Don’t mind Chef Jon Holland’s brazen persona. His memory-infused dishes are nothing short of masterful. BY EMMA SIMMONS PHOTOS BY EMMA SIMMONS VestaviaHillsMagazine.com 29
H
Chef Jon Holland plates his Fig Pig Pork.
He might be a punk rock kid going on 36, but Chef Jon Holland is also the “maw maw” many unenlightened Southern transplants never had. Even for locals, born ‘n’ bred, Southern meals aren’t the painstaking, all-day family affair they used to be. That’s why Holland infuses his memoryinspired dishes with that kind of food-is-love kitchen mentality at Fig Tree Café in Cahaba Heights. “You’re either bringing those flavors back for people or introducing people who have never seen that food culture to those flavors. We have a very strong backbone on tradition,” Holland maintains. His delicately plated Southern fare caters to everyday folk who won’t gripe about having to walk through a hair salon to reach his restaurant’s
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restroom. He cares more that they savor every succulent slice of their first pasture-raised heritage pork than if the location or lighting suits their fancy. The slow nod and light-bulb eyes that customers get when they’re creating a new food memory is Holland’s driving force. “I have the opportunity to provide something different for my guests, and it’s not economically friendly for me, but I’m proud to be that collateral damage. I’m not a stuff guy,” says Holland, gesturing to Exhibit A, his “crappy truck.” Holland’s humbling attitude is ingrained in his DNA. While other youngsters were pushing away peas, his 4-year-old self was relishing every bite of his father’s mock-traditional Pad Thai. Holland enjoyed an anomaly of a childhood, replete with
Fig Tree Cafe’s Diver Scallops
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“
I fell in love with organized chaos, but I knew that no matter what I did, I wanted to be successful. I wanted to be like my grandfather. -Chef Jon Holland
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off-the-wall food experiences, fitting for a fledgling chef. “This idealistic notion of what a chef’s childhood should be is what I lived, in just about every aspect,” he says. The chef idolized his swanky grandfather, a “big Escoffier guy” with a soft spot for martinis, caviar and Julia Child. He raised Holland’s father in Thailand whilst teaching anatomy at a local university. Unsurprisingly, Holland’s father was determined to recreate the ethnic flavors of his childhood for his own son, whom he raised with Holland’s mother, a Delta Mississippi gal who was going to make sure you ate your gizzards whether you liked ‘em or not. Holland’s stepmother was also a fry cook to be reckoned with, but it was her mother, Maw Maw, who kept the family kitchen
running like a well-bacon-greased machine, with the help of Holland, her trusty bean-peeler. This mélange of characters left behind a legacy that Holland has effortlessly fused into his melting pot of a cooking style. It’s the unexpected happy marriage of flavors that keeps Fig Tree regulars coming back for more. “We constantly have this identity crisis, but to me, it’s not really a crisis,” Holland says. “We like being weird. We like surprising people. We wanna give you food quality that’s better than some of the nicest restaurants in the country.” In September, it’ll have been 20 years since this unabashed high school dropout got his humble start, dishing out all-star breakfasts at a Waffle House in Atlanta. “I was a horrible student, and that’s why I picked VestaviaHillsMagazine.com 33
Fig Pig Pork
ON THE MENU Some Summertime Selections from Fig Tree Cafe •
Fried Green Tomatoes
•
Shrimp and Grits
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Crab Cakes
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Hoppin John with Shrimp
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Fried Crab Claws
•
Diver Scallops
•
Oysters
•
Porchetta
•
Chicken Fried Chicken
•
Fish of the Day
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to be a chef, because I never had to grow up,” Holland admits, half-jokingly. As the late Anthony Bourdain exposed in his eye-opening documentaries, a chef’s life isn’t for the faint of heart. It’s all been the school of hard knocks for Vestavia Hills’ culinary rebel. Holland held his own with the “hardcore hellcats” that prowl steakhouse kitchens, dodging fistfights on his way out the kitchen door and into a managerial role. “I fell in love with organized chaos, but I knew that no matter what I did, I wanted to be successful. I wanted to be like my grandfather,” Holland reminisces. Grandpa Holland’s “never-correctly-sharpened” kitchen knife, though unused, is a deliberate
fixture in his grandson’s kitchen. “It will not leave my kitchen, because it’s a piece of him here. And that’s important to me.” Despite the myriad of influencers along the trajectory of Holland’s career, he’s not following in anyone’s footsteps. He’s not afraid to whip up a romesco “the wrong way,” because in his mind there’s no such thing. Culinary preconceptions don’t cloud this chef’s creative process. “Sometimes a dish is very off-the-beaten path. We never taste it and go, ‘Oh that’s dead wrong,’ unless we burn it or over-salt it. It allows you to grow into it,” Holland explains. When the time comes for the chef to crank out a new menu item, all it takes is about 20 minutes and a little bit of liquid courage, not that he needs
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it. He’ll perfect a food concept he’s acquainted with by way of tossing the rulebook aside. “You come up with it, you roll with it, you look at every part of it, and you get it done. If you overthink it, you overcomplicate it,” Holland says. Whatever it is the famous New York chefs are doing, Holland couldn’t say. Keeping up with the Joneses has never been his style. “I don’t look at other cities, I don’t look at other chefs, I don’t care. I respect what Frank Stitt’s doing, it’s legit! But it’s what Frank’s doing. You do what you do, I’ll do what I do.” It may be difficult to pinpoint exactly what it is that Holland’s doing, but that’s part of the magic, as it’s nothing short of masterful. On a typical summer evening, Holland glides through his domain, mingling with guests, no matter the “sirloin spray” decorating his worn T-shirt. He bears the stain proudly, a token of a bloody kitchen battle. Fig Tree first-timers would probably raise their eyebrows if they knew the guy chucking limes at rowdy regulars was the owner and executive chef. The refined execution of Holland’s dishes is a surprisingly perfect foil to his brazen persona. He’s not wrapped up in bougie nonsense. He’s preoccupied with mastering comforting concepts. But that doesn’t mean he doesn’t have big plans. “Being Fig Tree and being Chef Jon Holland are two totally different things,” according to the man himself. Holland, we’re keeping an eye on you. Fig Tree Café is located at 3160 Cahaba Heights Road. To learn more visit thebirminghamfigtree.com.
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FOOD & DRINK
FIG TREE CAFE’S
HONEYSUCKLE WATERMELON MARTINI
PHOTO AND TEXT BY EMMA SIMMONS
Remember the ole summer days of sweet honeysuckle-licking and watermelon-busting? For the kiddos, harvesting Mother Nature’s liquid candy is a rite of passage. But for the grown-up lesson-givers, it’s a fleeting excuse to indulge in carefree childhood memories. More than just a nod to flavors redolent of days past, Fig Tree Cafe’s Honeysuckle Watermelon Martini will take you there. Just close your eyes and savor a sip.
WHAT’S IN IT
HOW TO MAKE IT
• • • • •
Place all ingredients, in no particular order, into a cocktail shaker with ice. Then, per Chef Jon Holland’s instructions, shake the living daylights out of it and strain into a martini glass. Top it off with a rosemary sprig.
2 ounces Cathead Honeysuckle vodka 2 ounces homemade watermelon puree 1/2 ounce simple syrup 1/2 ounce fresh-squeezed lime juice Rosemary sprig for garnish
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FOOD & DRINK
5
FIVE QUESTIONS FOR
Ahmed Smadi Roll Up Mastermind
PHOTO BY MADOLINE MARKHAM
Vestavia’s newest Thai rolled ice cream concept isn’t quite what we expected after seeing its sleek branding online. What we found was a 19-year-old UAB student (and 2016 VHHS graduate) who learned to cook in his family’s restaurant, The Ranch House, and now has launched his own brand in the back of his dad’s multifaceted convenience store Everyday Café on Columbiana Road, with an entrance across from Watkins Cleaners and Arby’s on McGuire Road. Here’s what Ahmed has to say about it all. How did you end up in the rolled ice cream business? Ten months ago a friend and I were trying to think of a business idea. One day I opened my Snapchat and saw a story about rolled ice cream in New York. I thought it looked pretty cool and knew we didn’t have anything like that here. I started saving money and thought up the brand Roll Up that my friend Mat designed. I bought a machine from China, and it broke. The second one broke too. So I waited until the summer and built my chalkboard menu. I asked my dad for a little tiny spot in the corner of the store if I paid rent. I didn’t have enough money to buy signs or anything, but I opened hoping to build off word of mouth. And then what happened? The most amazing thing. These Vestavia 38 VestaviaHillsMagazine.com
Hills families were coming in and loving it. One lady came in and posted it on “What’s Happening in Vestavia” on Facebook. I showed up the next morning to open at 1 p.m., and there was a line at 12:00. I had a line out the door until after I closed. It stayed the same for several days. Then my machine broke, so I had to close to fix it. I ordered two new machines and asked my dad if, since I had so many customers, I could use the former Everyday Café space in the back of the store. We reopened for good in early July. Now we have the largest sit-in area ice cream shop in Birmingham, and we have patio seating.
taste from other rolled ice cream places. What should we order? Most popular is Le Cookie which is a cookies and cream roll. The most unique ones I sell a lot are CTC (Cinnamon Toast Crunch) and Yabba Dabba Doo, which is Fruity Pebbles. It tastes like ice cream cereal, and it’s awesome. For the other flavors I asked friends and customers what sounded good, and what was the quickest and easiest for me to do. All 10 consistently sell the same.
What’s next? I am going to change my hours from 1-9 p.m. to 3-10 p.m. when the school year Tell us about your ice cream base. I had to change my recipe at least 40 starts, and I am planning to hire high school times until I got it. Sometimes it was too students. I want to do different promotions sweet or had too much vanilla. Since I like discounts for coming in in your Rebel developed my own recipe, it has a unique jersey or bringing in a good report card.
&STYLE
HOME
TO ROME WITH LOVE
Interior designer Laura Merrill has crafted her home’s custom details to reflect her love of travel and European architecture. BY MADOLINE MARKHAM PHOTOS BY LAUREN USTAD VestaviaHillsMagazine.com 39
Before
T
The Merrills’ Mediterranean-inspired house does not look like the other brick homes built in the 1970s on its street. But it was not always that way. “It was awful,” interior designer Laura Merrill recalls of when she and her husband purchased it in 2005. “I remember standing in front of the house with tears in my eyes, and no clear vision of how this could possibly be transformed into a home that we would love and enjoy.” Other than the house itself, the quiet cul-de-sac, the wooded backyard with plenty of privacy, and the same Vestavia school system her husband had grown up attending were enticing. The Merrills moved from their quaint Spanish-style home in the Hollywood area of Homewood and brought vision to this “Brady Bunch” looking home. The transformation was nothing short of dramatic. In the living spaces on the front of the home, they pulled out 8-foot ceilings and brought them up to the roofline, previously attic space, before adding wooden beams on the angled surfaces. Virtually everything was replaced. On the exterior, they covered the existing brick with a terra-cotta-colored stucco, and replaced windows with three sets of French doors. Peacock pavers and
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gas lights were added to create a new courtyard area in the front of the house. “I wanted to create something out of the ordinary—something that reflects my love for travel and European architecture,” Laura says. The interior of the home further showcases this inspiration. As you walk through its three floors, custom is the name of the game: master bathroom cabinets fabricated to look like antiques, bullnose corners on all of the walls, ceiling colors boldly distinct of walls, a metal pipe hand railing on a brick facade wall on the basement stairs, and more. Laura calls her mix of contemporary and antique pieces eclectic, with a preference for timeless over trendy. With three boys at home (and Max, the dog, too), functionality is also key. “No white sofas,” Laura jokingly adds. In many ways, the family home doubles as Laura’s ever-changing portfolio. “Design years are like dog years,” she says. “Every seven to 10 years it’s time to refresh.” Her own parents, now in their 70s, are renovating a home they purchased a few years ago in Highlands, North Carolina, so she says, “It’s kind of in my blood.” No matter its current iteration, the house is certainly a far cry from the Bradys’ home.
Dining Room This space shows off how the Merrills took their ceiling up to the roofline and added wooden beams. A stucco finish on the walls adds texture, along with a reclaimed wood table top on a contemporary steel base to round out the ensemble of slipcovered chairs, custom draperies and an art deco bar from the Paris flea market.
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Family Room The functional-chic family room highlights Laura’s eclectic sense of style, with French chairs flanking a console with concrete pedestals from Elegant Earth. On the wall above it is a custom abstract by local artist Emmy Grier.
Butler’s Pantry Walls were reconfigured to add a butler’s pantry off of the family room in the first phase of renovations. It features a faux painted backsplash and framed wine labels from bottles enjoyed on a trip to Italy, with a stunning crystal light fixture from Village Firefly overhead.
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Breakfast Nook The wall opposite the banquette, where the Merrills eat most of their meals, showcases menus from some of their favorite restaurants from their travels (not pictured).
Kitchen The Merrills’ recent kitchen renovation started with the backsplash, a tile resembling Raku pottery and reminiscent of the color of the Mediterranean Sea. From there, soapstone countertops replaced the original concrete Laura initially had in the kitchen, as well as a cooler wash on the cabinets and new hardware.
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Game Room The living room once used as a passthrough to other spaces now features a pool table, sofa, television, and old whiskey barrel swivel chairs. To add to the “game-y” ambience, Laura hung an enormous kudu on loan from her brotherin-law, who killed it on a hunting trip to Africa. There is also a humorous batik piece of art she purchased at the Bluff Park Art Show from an artist out of New Orleans.
Office For this space, Laura framed Chanel Warhol posters over an antique settee reupholstered in a gray velvet, showing her flair for color. “It’s fun and girly,” she says of the space she calls her own. “Like I said, I’ve got three boys.” The other furnishings include a custom bulletin board for organizing projects and a custom made pecky cypress bookcase.
Master Bedroom The master retreat is layered in restful blue gray tones and a sisal carpet, again adding textural layers. An Italian marriage chest` contrasts with an austere, masculine leather canopy bed. Fur covered stools with antler style legs from Richard Tubb sit at the foot of the bed.
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Powder Bathroom The basement powder bath walls are covered in reclaimed white oak, making it no surprise that the Merrill boys consider this refined rustic space the “nicest� bathroom in the house. Iron sconces flank a mirror recessed into the wooden walls, and a hammered metal sink sits in the floating live edge countertop.
Around the Fire Although it’s in the front yard, a gas fire pit with Adirondack chairs for seating is completely private and secluded thanks, in part, to the large boxwoods surrounding it. The Merrills enjoy sitting there with a glass of wine while watching their boys play basketball in the adjacent driveway. VestaviaHillsMagazine.com 45
Basement Suite The basement also boasts a bedroom suite Laura finished a couple of years ago for her now 18-yearold son. The bathroom floors have a marble herringbone pattern, and a complementing waterfall edge countertop on the custom vanity.
meet our top producers of 2018
BEHIND THE SCENES Interior Design: Laura Merrill Interiors
Limestone Mantle (Den): Architectural Heritage Shelley Clark
Kitchen Backsplash: Crossville Tile and Stone
Blair Moss
Jane Huston Crommelin
Custom Wood Finishings: Daniel Whitsett, Paintworks Katie Crommelin
Select Bathroom Fixtures: Ferguson Plumbing
Basement Powder Bath Faucet: V & W Supply Fabrics: King Cotton, D.S.R.
Julie Harris
Ray Poynor
Sisal Rug: D.S.R.
&
Betsy French
Abstract Art (Den): Emmy Grier
Painting on Twin Beds: Frances Mayhall
Custom Hood & Stainless Shelves Fabrication: Darren Hardman
Select Lighting (Butler’s Pantry, Office, Kitchen Sink):
Tracy Patton
Betsy Dreher Mary Evans
Judy Horton
We understand that we are in a relationship business. Our clients' needs are our priority and we work hard to find them what they are looking for. Our agents are here to make a difference. Honesty, Integrity, Knowledge. That is what sets Ray & Poynor apart from the rest. Henry Ray
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Village Firefly
Kitchen Pendants & Chandelier: Visual Comfort Appliances: AllSouth Appliance Landscaping: Earthworks, LLC
Area Rugs: Antique Acquisitions, Nashville Rug Gallery, 18th Street Orientals, Paige Albright Orientals
How to Create
AT HOME
a Stunning Tablescape
Are you hosting a party or enjoy entertaining? A beautiful tablescape can add instant glamor to any event. Imagine your table as a blank canvas with endless design possibilities. Begin by choosing a theme, style or color palette. Then, play with the contrast of colors and materials. For example, combining glam with rustic will create balance and add depth. Be sure to include natural organic layers like fruit, flowers or greenery. Lastly, enjoy your company and the conversation!
Photos & Text By Jessica Clement
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4 5 1. Marble Candle Holders- Leaf & Petal, $9-$10. 2. Mini Boxwood Wreath- Swoon, $18. 3. Gold Rim Organic Dinner Plate- Chickadee Interiors, $48. 4. Woven Placemat- Swoon, $20. 5. Red Hemstitched Napkin- Chickadee Interiors, $8. 6. Small Ball Potted BoxwoodSwoon, $72. 7. Urn Planter- Leaf & Petal, $8.
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IN STYLE
Maximize your Summer in
MAXI DRESSES
BY MADISON FREEMAN PHOTOS BY LAUREN USTAD
1. WHITE SHORT SLEEVED TOP WITH ROUND NECK
1
Adding white tops under dresses is a great way to begin the transition from summer to fall. Serendipity Boutique | $34
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2. KREWE ST. LOUIS L CARNEVALE TO CRYSTAL 24K Once you go Krewe, you won’t go back, and this pair comes with a bold colored rim too. Manhattan South | $255
3. STRIPED SIDE POCKET LONG DRESS
LOOK 1
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Perhaps best of all, this dress has pockets! Serendipity Boutique | $59
4. WOODEN LASER CUT GREEN SHOE This colorful wedge is not only comfy, but also adds a perfect pop of color. Serendipity Boutique | $119
4 Madison is a local fashion, home decor, travel and lifestyle blogger opening her door up for you on insidemyopendoor.com.
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1. MULTI STRIPED MAXI DRESS This flirty and fun dress will keep you cool in summer heat, and early “fall” heat. Flip Flops and What Nots | $49.00
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2. WHITE STRAW HAT Straw hats are so in right now and make the perfect addition to any street style look. Serendipity Boutique | $28.00
3. SIMPLE BROWN SANDALS
LOOK 2
These sandals are easy to wear and very comfortable for everyday looks. Flip Flops and What Nots | $24.00
4. WHITE TASSEL NECKLACE The calm color of this necklace makes it easy to pair with just about anything. Flip Flops and What Nots | $19.00
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LATE SUMMER MUST-HAVES 1. GOOD PEOPLE ANSTA CLUTCH POPPY RED
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This stunning clutch is for sure a statement piece. Manhattan South | $130.00
2 TAT2 DESIGNS HATI COIN & LABRADORITE COIN BANGLE - GOLD This bangle is gorgeous and simple, but elegant at the same time. Manhattan South | $298
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3. EVOCATEUR BERLIN TEARDROP EARRINGS This colorful metallic line has several pieces to match the earrings to boot. Manhattan South | $160
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Coast to Coast Francie Harris Kaufman talks packing, food finds, and the road that led both she and her new husband, Smylie, to life on the PGA Tour. BY AMY FERGUSON PHOTOS BY JOE TANKERSLEY & CONTRIBUTED
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Most of us could easily do without cooking and laundry—but not Francie Harris Kaufman. She is happiest when she can cook breakfast, lunch and dinner at home. Because when you spend most of your time living out of a suitcase—in her case on the PGA tour with her new husband and professional golfer Smylie Kaufman— mundane chores like cooking and laundry become actual godsends. Throughout their courtship, Francie always knew that the golf game would be a vital part of Smylie’s life, and ultimately their life together, in some way or another. Golf is simply, as Francie describes, in his blood. Smylie’s grandfather coached the UAB Blazer golf team from 19982013, both of Smylie’s parents played at LSU, and Smylie hasn’t left the course since he started walking as a toddler. Still, it wasn’t until after Francie’s college graduation when the reality of Symlie’s future on the green truly set in. She had traveled to Las Vegas to support him in the second tournament of his first PGA tour, where he won by one stroke. In that moment, everything came full circle.
“Seeing how excited he was to win and how his hard work paid off, I thought ‘How can I not travel with him, support him and watch him do what he loves?’” Francie says. “He worked toward this for so long, and to experience that victory with him, it just solidified everything. It was like, ‘Yup! This is how we’re going to do it.’” Today, after dating for nearly a decade—and a proposal on the 14th hole of the Shoal Creek golf course—the high-school sweethearts are now four months into newlywed life and travel coast-tocoast following the PGA Tour. It all started when 15-year-old Francie, a sophomore at Vestavia Hills High School, grabbed the attention of fellow classmate, 16-year-old VestaviaHillsMagazine.com 51
5 QUESTIONS FOR FRANCIE Who is on the guest list for your ideal dinner party? Smylie, of course and my dear friends! Then I’d invite Kathie Lee Gifford and Hoda Kotb, Emily Schuman of Cupcakes and Cashmere, Frank Stitt, Jimmy Fallon, all of the members of NEEDTOBREATHE, Justin Timberlake, Gwenyth Paltrow, Thomas Rhett and Lauren Akins, Samantha Ponder, and finally Katherine and Jay Wolf. What item in your closet (or suitcase) do you wear the most? Workout clothes! I find my favorite pieces locally at Eleven Eleven in Mountain Brook Village or at Lululemon. What’s your favorite thing to cook at home? I love recipes by Skinnytaste and The Defined Dish! Chicken Milanese by Skinnytaste, and Thai Coconut Green Curry Salmon or Lemon Basil Pesto over Chicken and Zoodles by The Defined Dish are a few of my favorites. What are your top three travel items? Healthy snacks (Julie’s Real granola, Georgia Grinders nut butter pouches, and GoMacro bars are my favorites right now!), a travel steamer, and my Away carry-on (it has a portable battery for charging my phone inside the suitcase, so no more fighting for an outlet at airports!). What’s the best compliment you’ve ever received? Being nominated to serve on the board of the PGA Tour Wives Association as the vice president of community outreach. Through this association, we work with charities in the communities to which we travel. The St. Jude Patient Art Party is one of my favorite events that we do!
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Francie sports her Away baggage for photos inside the Vestavia Country Club pro shop.
Smylie Kaufman, a typical kid who had a dream to “be a professional golfer who wears [Ralph Lauren] Polo,” according to his third-grade prediction worksheet. Study dates for chemistry and math tests blossomed into casual “hang-out” dates, which meant frequenting the former Rave movie theater, Starbucks and Moe’s Southwest Grill in the Vestavia Hills City Center. It wasn’t long before Smylie, diploma in hand, headed South to take a shot (no pun intended) at bringing his dreams to life, starting with a collegiate golf career playing for the LSU Tigers. A year later, Francie set out for Auburn University to become a child-life specialist. Though 420.7 miles apart, Francie and Smylie vowed to remain committed to one another. While Smylie dedicated himself to his golf game, Francie made the cut for the Auburn University cheerleading squad, which swallowed up any extra free time on her calendar, making it even more difficult to stay connected to Smylie. “It was really hard,” Francie says. “We were both so busy and really involved in our own sports. But, we got into a routine, knowing when the other was available to chat each day. FaceTime is a great thing, and made life so much easier since we only saw each other every few months. But somehow, we made it work.”
Francie and Smylie pose for pictures at the Players Championship at TPC Sawgrass, the 2016 Masters, at the PGA Tour Wives Golf Classic where the girls play 9 holes and the guys caddy, and at Shriners Hospitals for Children Open in Las Vegas (clockwise from top left).
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Francie’s golf friends threw her a bridal shower in Palm Beach.
In the midst of what would eventually shake out to be a five-year, long-distance relationship with Francie, Smylie found his way to the PGA. Although their marriage is still in its infancy, the couple reports they have traveled to 23 different states, countless cities and two foreign countries together, collecting stories, snapping photos and building countless memories along the way. That’s why Francie started her @FairwayFinds Instagram account in August 2016. “Originally, the account was just for me,” Francie confesses. “I wanted a place to document our life on the road so I could remember restaurants we really liked or an area that had a lot of fun things to do.” But once Francie was officially out on the tour that fall, she began to receive all kinds of inquires from people everywhere about life on the road. How do you maintain a health and wellness routine when you aren’t at home? What are your go-to items that make traveling easier? With a bit of 54 VestaviaHillsMagazine.com
encouragement from her younger brother, Francie adjusted her approach to the account and now uses it to share new adventures, food finds, healthy living advice and travel tips with all 13,600 of her current followers. She also created a blog called Fairway Finds where she can share more details on a variety of travel topics—things like carry-on essentials, recommended active wear for girls onthe-go and TSA-friendly snacks to pack. One of the blog’s more popular topics is packing, a sore subject for anyone who has financially stripped by more than one airline for going over the luggage weight limit. Like many women, Francie was always an “over packer,” and admits in the early days on the tour, she doubted that everything she wanted to bring would fit. “It’s easy to pack in the summer,” Francie says. “But when traveling to the West Coast in January, we have to pack everything from summer clothes to a winter jacket. You just never know.” With a few trips now under her belt, Francie
One of Francie’s favorite events in the PGA Tour Wives Association is the St. Jude Patient Art Party.
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“
We have a lot of people to look up to—people who have been out doing this for over 20 years—who give us advice, build us up and support us.
Francie’s favorite drink at Vestavia Country Club is the skinny margarita. During this photo shoot, she noted that most days walking the golf course are not as luxurious as might apppear in this shoot.
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-Francie Harris Kaufman
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reports she has “packing down to a science” and (most of the time) can fit everything into one suitcase, one rolling carry-on and a backpack, which is pretty impressive considering their trips last as long as three weeks. She attributes her knack for packing and navigation of life on the tour as a whole to their group of friends in what she calls “the golf world.” “I’ve been really thankful for the community [of friends] that we’ve built [on the road],” Francie says. “We have a lot of people to look up to—people who have been out doing this for over 20 years—who give us advice, build us up and support us. They just get it. It would be extremely lonely without them.” While Francie admits to being “blessed” with amazing experiences out on the tour (meeting Justin Timberlake currently sits at the top of Francie’s list) and the opportunity to explore beautiful places, she stresses that life on the road isn’t as glitzy and glamorous as it looks. “After walking over 6 miles on the course each day, we are both just really drained,” Francie says. “Sometimes we explore and do fun things once the sun goes down, and other times all the energy I can muster is sitting by the hotel washing machine to make sure we have clean clothes for the next day.” There’s no telling how many adventures the Kaufmans have in their future, but there is one thing they know for sure. “People always ask us if we will stay in Vestavia,” Francie says. “And the answer always is, ‘It’s our home. Absolutely we will!’ Not only are our family and friends here, but also, we just love everything about it. When we pull into town, we just get this comfortable feeling of home.”
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Next Door in New Merkel BY ELIZABETH STURGEON | PHOTOS MARY FEHR & CONTRIBUTED
There’s something about Cahaba Heights. New restaurants and shops are popping up all the time, but its past goes back much farther to its days as New Merkel—and all the years in between. No matter the time period though, those who call it home have invested in its streets and its people. HERE ARE THEIR STORIES OF CAHABA HEIGHTS, NEW AND OLD.
DELLA FANCHER
THE ACTIVIST WHO PROTECTS HER HOMETOWN Every first Thursday of the month, Della Fancher chats with her friend Pat Donovan Hope. In fact, their friendship began in their fourth-grade class at Cahaba Heights Elementary. “Cahaba Heights people tend to hang on to each other,” Della says, reflecting on her simple childhood in the community. When she was only 18 months, Della’s family moved to their home in Cahaba Heights in 1949. Well, when they moved there, it was a town called New Merkel. Of a different name, it was also a different time. “There was no fear. We could ride bikes anywhere. We could decide to go see our Sunday school teacher or to go to Davis Drugstore and get a Vanilla Coke,” she says. “My mother was a fearless mother, but there just wasn’t a worry.” Della knew all her neighbors, and her house was the center of her elementary school community. “My world was the school, Philadelphia Baptist Church and my grandparents in Shelby County,” she says. Even even when she left that world once she grew up, Cahaba Heights is still home for Della. She worked in Atlanta and Dallas, moved to Homewood
and then noticed billboards and metal buildings that diminished the community she knew. But they were legal in Jefferson County. So, Della protected her home through the Cahaba Heights Citizen’s Association. In 1990, the group began planning smaller projects, like creating a park, to improve Cahaba Heights, but they were also seeing pieces of Cahaba Heights being annexed into different cities. “What you want is to create the change, not have someone change it for you,” she explains. After the Citizen’s Association researched annexation plans and meddled with options, Vestavia Hills annexed the area 2002 to help maintain the charming neighborhood Della envisioned. “But even so, we will always be Cahaba Heights inside of Vestavia,” she says. That close community didn’t lose its essence at all, Della made sure. Della now owns her parents’ Cahaba Heights home and the house next door, previously owned by her neighbors who were practically family. “I’ve just always felt I was from Cahaba Heights,” she says. VestaviaHillsMagazine.com 59
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1887 The town of Merkel moved down a few miles to become New Merkel and grew around the Cahaba Pumping Station. (The true spelling has been lost, so now it’s often spelled “Merkle.”) It started out known as a center for bootleggers and moonshiners.
1906 Q
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The New Merkel House opened as a center for community gatherings. It is often used as a senior center, and it was named New Merkel to tie the new Cahaba Heights community to its past.
Q
2011
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Cahaba Heights was annexed into Vestavia Hills by the Vestavia Hills City Council.
New Merkel School, now Vestavia Elementary Cahaba Heights, opened with principal E. A. Hollis and was moved to its current location in 1925.
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New Merkel changed its name to Cahaba Heights to reinvent their reputation. It was still known to some to have a rough community (even though the worst thing Della Fancher remembers hearing is that some disgruntled Cahaba Heights teenagers threw a skunk into Davenport’s).
Q
Within the small Heights Village shopping center parking lot, GiGi’s Teen managed to draw about 2,000 girls to their store on a hopeful, hot Saturday in 2014. After being rejected by the Galleria, social media star Cole LaBrant came to the boutique for a meet-and-greet. Expecting a simple crowd of 100 girls, co-owner Katherine McRee was met with thousands, some from outside of Alabama, banging on the windows and crowding into the store to meet the viral high school boys. Really, it’s the type of thing that would happen in Cahaba Heights. “It’s quirky,” Katherine says. “Everything is so different, in a good way. It’s very inviting. You can just be you and feel normal here.” Since she moved with her family to Vestavia Hills and later opened The Lili Pad and GiGi’s Teen with her sister Susan Day in 2004, Katherine’s learned the ins-and-outs of the neighborhood, especially the business district. Through events like Deck the Heights, she and the newly formed Cahaba Heights Merchants Association work to promote community through local businesses. The many types of small businesses in the area reflect the joyful and eclectic spirit Katherine describes when they all come together. “Nothing is uniform, and it’s okay to be different,” she says. Beyond just creating community events, Katherine and others around her are working on beautification projects in Cahaba Heights and fundraising through events like this spring’s Heights Hangout. First up they are making plans for the corner of Cahaba Heights Road and Dolly Ridge Road, right by the Chevron, with a vision to add a mix of landscape and hardscape with a modern, backlit “Cahaba Heights” sign. With the area’s mix of businesses and people comes a closeness, especially because so many business owners live close to the area like Katherine. “It’s fun because there are still people shopping here who’ve been shopping since we opened,” she says. “We were first close because the school was so small. After the tornado, everybody really came together even more.” Katherine and her sister Susan helped during the week of the 2011 tornado, sitting in the Heights Village parking lot to pass out supplies. Already tightly-knit through its smallness, the community pieced things back together and lifted each other up. “It’s not stuck up,” she says. “It’s not your typical village or neighborhood where everything’s the same. It has its own identity.”
THROUGH THE YEARS Q
THE BUSINESS OWNER WHO EMBRACES THE ECCENTRIC
CAHABA HEIGHTS
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KATHERINE MCREE
The devastating April 27 tornadoes came through the community and tore apart the area. Residents and business owners came together to help during the crisis and to begin rebuilding.
NORMA AND BUNNY SAMPLE THE VOLUNTEERS WHO BRING PEOPLE TOGETHER
It sounded like a bomb went off. However, with the newly built The Summit in their backyard, Eugene “Bunny” and Norma Sample, now 86 and 83, respectively, just weren’t used to fireworks being so close. That was something so different than the Cahaba Heights they knew. Now they can enjoy the lights behind the neighborhood they’ve made home since the 1960s. That home truly started in the elementary school. Norma had only taught for a few years before getting a job at Cahaba Heights Elementary School and teaching second and fourth grade there for 41 years. “It’s just a real good place. You could always tell about it,” she says. They both remember how the school never lacked any help from the community, which made it one of the best. For their first gym, the county asked for the school to raise $20,000 to contribute to the project, and residents raised it in two months. “They wanted a good school, and it really helped,” Norma says, always praising the school and its leadership.
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The parents were always “really interested,” Bunny says. When the school needed paper, parents provided it. When they were funding a new project, families came out to participate in events to raise money. And even outside the school, that seems to be the spirit of Cahaba Heights to the Samples. “When something happened, we all felt it,” Norma says. Bunny has helped with all kinds of projects to help the neighborhood, whether it’s rebuilding parts of the school or helping save the New Merkel Senior Center by moving it across the street. “A lot of the work they did, they just did,” Norma says. People came together for their community and to make it better. It’s really that simple. Now, they’re both at the senior center at least once a week, always inviting people in to come together. “I just think we were really blessed in having good people and people who were wanting what was best for the children,” Norma says. “There’s good camaraderie out here.”
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LANE BROWN
THE RESIDENT WHO RETURNED HOME How could anyone not love Doodles? Her son Davis just turned one, but Lane Brown already knows he loves the Italian ice staple, the same one she remembers enjoying as a kid. Originally on Sunview Drive, the shop was in a tiny, usually crowded shack right next to the old Western Supermarket. “We’d go hang out in the Western parking lot,” she says. “That was the place to be.” Like Della, Lane left Cahaba Heights for college but came back in the neighborhood with her husband four years ago. When the couple started looking for places to live right after finishing school and getting engaged, Lane knew it had to be the neighborhood she’d long known as a child. “It’s just such a welcoming community, and it’s so homey. You know your neighbors, and you know the local business owners,” she says. Davis could even have the same kindergarten teacher she did. And Lane is working with others to make it even better too. As a part of the executive board for the Cahaba Heights Community Foundation, she’s planning events that will bring families together
and provide avenues for people to meet others in the community outside the schools. For about a year and a half, the organization has been running movie nights in Meadowlawn Park and the Heights Heroes 5K and Fun Run to raise money for the elementary school. And Lane and her family can get to these events on foot too. “From my house, we can walk to Heights Village or to the new Martin’s Bar-B-Que. In other parts of Vestavia, there aren’t a lot of places where you can do that,” she says, noting the physical smallness of the town really does bring everyone together and make it a unique home. That’s stayed the same since Lane has come back to her old neighborhood. “What’s interesting to me is how many people who grew up here came back to Cahaba Heights. You see generations,” she says. There are a lot of young families moving into the area, which is new for the community. “I actually run into a lot of friends I grew up with who have all moved here, and now they have kids.”
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Fruit of the Vine
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WHERE DO GARDENS, CHRISTIAN MISSIONS, ARTISANAL MEALS AND… DERMATOLOGY COLLIDE? IN A SOPHISTICATED TREEHOUSE IN LIBERTY PARK. BY MADOLINE MARKHAM | PHOTOS BY MARY FEHR & CONTRIBUTED
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Dr. Chris Harmon works with Robert Brandon in the New Water satellite garden in Liberty Park.
E
Envision a church camp and what comes to mind? Creaky bunk beds and food that’s less than stellar? Now picture a nonprofit, faith-based ministry event space and what do you see? A drab church fellowship hall, perhaps? Head to a retreat at New Water Farms on Lake Martin, and you might be surprised to find something different. Drive down the street to SmoothRock Center in Liberty Park and it’s a similar story. What visitors find instead is purely artisanal. At New Water, it’s lush gardens harvested for farm-to-table dinners and watching glass blowing and woodworking in action. At SmoothRock, it’s farm-fresh salads and salmon burgers dreamed up by Shindigs Food Truck chef
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Mac Russell and served against a lush wooded backdrop—at your conference, baby shower or lunch with friends. What ties these two locations together is the same visionary team spearheaded by dermatologist Dr. Chris Harmon, who just so happens to call Liberty Park home. SmoothRock, which opened in March off Liberty Parkway, was to be a multi-tenant building for the “healing arts.” What resulted is a sophisticated treehouse of sorts. Dr. Harmon’s practice, Surgical Dermatology Group, is housed on the top floor. Venturing downstairs takes you to a café run by Shindigs Catering, a window into Big Sky Bread Company’s bakery space and an idyllic outdoor patio that begs for the al fresco party of
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We want people to come in and talk and enjoy a meal or work together. -Robert Brandon
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The metal tree with glass fruit in the lobby of SmoothRock Center in Liberty Park symbolizes the Tree of Life in the book of Revelation in the Bible.
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Dr. Chris Harmon and Robert Brandon
WHAT TO KNOW ABOUT SMOOTHROCK’S LAKE MARTIN SISTER New Water Farms’ story started back in 2011 when a career long missionary with International Mission Board came to Dr. Chris Harmon with a dream for a facility to train missionaries. One thing led to another, and soon they had 23 acres on Lake Martin that were formerly home to a camp for adults with mental challenges. With renovations and new building came the creation of a Christian faith-based event and retreat center and working farm that supports the ministry side financially.
your dreams. Step beyond these culinary spaces, and you’ll find offices for two nonprofits that Chris and his wife, Sandy, have long had ties to: New Water’s retreat and event center, and E3 Medical, a medical missions organization that uses healthcare as an avenue to planting churches. Although SmoothRock is adjacent to suburban office buildings and strip malls, the building’s setting takes you to a remote-feeling retreat. The center backs up to a vibrant wooded conservation easement with a trickling tributary from the Cahaba River. That backdrop was only part of the inspiration for the space’s name. “It represents the work of the Holy Spirit in your life smoothing out the rough edges,” New Water board member Robert Brandon explains. For he and the others behind the enterprise, SmoothRock’s setting also signifies the Biblical narrative that starts in the Garden of Eden in Genesis and ends in the Tree of Life in Revelation. In fact, you can find a “tree
of life” when you enter the building too: a metal forged tree with 100 glass blown fruit pieces. They see the Biblical themes of redemption and gardening as woven throughout the space. “We can plug people in to go on a mission trip or get involved with social justice and things that are near and dear to our hearts,” Robert explains. “We want to champion great causes that are going on around the world that are redemptive in nature.” And at one entrance you’ll find a 2,500-squarefoot garden bearing tomatoes, squashes, radishes, beets, carrots, cucumbers and more in its first season. Its fruit then ends up on the menus at the café (and Shindings’ other new venture, Whistling Table in Forest Park) and perhaps on a tray for a baby shower in the conference space. It all connects with a unique synergy too. The bakery sells to café, and the café is the exclusive caterer for the conference space, which hosts meetings, conferences, birthday
Three rows of blackberry bushes became 1.5 acres of blackberry bushes, plus an additional three acres with all kinds of fruit (blueberries, persimmons, figs, muscadines, apples, you name it) and a growing vegetable garden that has given rise to CSA (community supported agriculture) shares and farm-to-table dinners alike. All the fruit and veggies are harvested by volunteers and Alabama Girls Ranch residents they employ. Add some sugar and hard-earned labor, and the further fruit of their labor becomes jams, cobblers, pickles and all sorts of products Pepper Place Market customers look for each Saturday. Perhaps the most essential ingredients to all things New Water are the volunteers, who bake cobblers, make jams, work the land and staff events—among countless other roles. Oh, and there’s one more artisanal element. You’ll also find a glass blowing studio, woodworking and blacksmithing on site— all of which can become part of a retreat or conference itinerary along with boat rides and garden exploration.
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We hear a lot that it tastes like what their grandmother used to make. That’s why I think people enjoy it so much. It brings back those memories.
”
-Sandy Harmon
parties, rehearsal dinners, you name it. Medical employees and patients venture into the café for breakfast or lunch, and are helping spread the word about its unique offerings the likes of steamed buns and grain bowls to friends and neighbors. Also at SmoothRock’s heart lies is hospitality in a form Robert explains based on a book called The Celtic Way of Evangelism. In Ireland during the Middle Ages, there were two models of Christian practice. In the monastery model, monks lived and prayed in a structure outside of town, and had little interaction with the village. The Celts were a different story. “They came out and drove their tent pegs in the middle of town and said, ‘Y’all, come on in! Let me teach you how to make a great meal and share it with us. Let’s have conversation,’ ” Robert explains. “That’s what New Water is. That’s what SmoothRock is. We want people to come in and talk 72 VestaviaHillsMagazine.com
and enjoy a meal or work together.” Which takes us back to New Water. The faithbased event and retreat center on Lake Martin boasts robust farmland whose fruits help fund the ministry (see sidebar on Page 71 for more details). Its jams, honeys, and other food products—which you can find for sale at Pepper Place Market or SmoothRock Center, or online— have come as a result of figuring out what to do with a plethora of crops. Bushes of cucumber begat a pickle recipe, jalapeño peppers gave rise to both blackberry jalapeño jam and salsa. “We hear a lot that it tastes like what their grandmother used to make,” Sandy Harmon says. “That’s why I think people enjoy it so much. It brings back those memories.” SmoothRock and New Water are both still in startup mode in many ways, but that only drives their visionaries to dream even bigger. Those dreams take lots of forms too. One is countering to
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how they see culture segregated, with different bins for work, play, family, recreation. “How can we make those things seamless? That’s our grand mission,” Robert says. But perhaps even more than that is making relational connections that lead to ideas that grow far beyond their walls. Robert and Sandy envision staff running into Liberty Park residents at SmoothRock, patients asking questions about New Water and E3, and men’s groups or tennis teams meeting up for a meal. In these conversations perhaps an idea pops up for, say, hydroponic gardening. From there that idea could be prototyped at New Water and then launched to Third World counties though missions organizations that train at New Water. “These ideas are birthed here out of relationships, tested and sent out,” Robert summarizes. “That would be a major dream come true.” Find SmoothRock Center at 1940 Stonegate Drive in Liberty Park, or visit smoothrockcenter.com or newwater.com to learn more. VestaviaHillsMagazine.com 73
OUT & ABOUT
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WING DING
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PHOTOS BY MALLORY BARRY
Leadership Vestavia Hills hosted a fun day of music, family fun and of course a wing competition on June 2 at City Hall. 1. August, Andy and Alyson Ragland 2. Ricky Parrish and Justin Ragland 3. Steve Miller and Lisa Taylor 4. Matthew, Rachel and David Rand 5. Tyler and Jonathan Holt 6. Jamie and Bo Turner 7. Jayla Smith, Anna Nelson and Iva Nelson 8. Sunny Cantrell and Alanna Payton 9. Mallie and Joe Vincent 10. Amy and Tristan White 11. Jessica and Susan Compton 12. Jenn McCarthy, Alex Skeme and Taylor Harkins
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SUMMER READING KICKOFF PHOTOS BY ELIZABETH NANCE
Global Movements kicked off summer reading with a circus-style performance of acrobatics, jugglers and more at the Library in the Forest Amphitheatre on May 31. 1. Sophia Stephen and Hayden Speegle 2. Bishop and Ace Waters 3. Andrew Au, Daniel Murong and Jason Murong
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4. Jenny Billano and Casey Barnes 5. Shekima and Kaeson Sanchez 6. Kate Deason, Sophia Deason, Emily Deason and Emma Chen 7. Annah and Lucky Lengen 8. Finley and Blakely Brizendine 9. Graham Tomas, Blaire Blanding, Berdis Blanding and Derek Tain 10. Judy and Jim Brown, Aiden Billano, and Foster Billano 11. Anna Lucre, Holly Parker, Elizabeth Hester and Georgeann Hester 12. Kristen, Elijah and Harper Boggs
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OUT & ABOUT
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FATHER-DAUGHTER TEA
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PHOTOS BY ELIZABETH NANCE
Daddies and daughters made memories over a special tea party at Library in the Forest on June 16. 1. Claire, Duncan, Harmony and Liberty Lamb 2. Sydney Downes and Ashleigh Long 3. Lane and Lily Brunson 4. Jeremy Duckworth with his daughters 5. Eden, Chad and Emarie Lee 6. Ever and Jim Powell 7. Andrew and Piper Gentry 8. Annaliese and Steve Aller 9. Gene and Culver Gilmore 10. Amelia and Andrew Weems 11. Sahiba and Harry Chhabra 12. Lexi, John Paul and Victoria Clough 13. SeongHo and Euna Jo
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OUT & ABOUT
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I LOVE AMERICA NIGHT PHOTOS BY MALLORY BARRY
The rain couldn’t keep away the fun of this annual night of festivities. It moved indoors to Vestavia Hills United Methodist Church on July 2. 1. Sarah and Olen Gann 2. Ryan and Rachel Patterson 3. William Drumm and Brooks Estes
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4. Jeff, Jennifer and Jordan Ray 5. Paul and Lucy Housel 6. Rebecca Crisler, Laura Gresham, Rob Crisler, Will Gresham and Anita Crisler 7. The Jeffers Family 8. Carol Ann and Jordan Wilkes 9. The Weinacker Family 10. Jackson and Wyatt Young 11. Ashton and Shelle Henderson 12. Cody Pugh, Allison Wilson, and Dee Carter
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A native of Mountain Brook Claire is a member of the Royal College of Veterinary Surgeons and the Alabama Veterinary Medical Association. After studying abroad she is happy to return home and is ready to care for your furry friends.
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SAINT MARK UMC FARMERS MARKET
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PHOTOS BY ELIZABETH NANCE
Saint Mark United Methodist Church hosted a market of veggies, jellies and more on Thursdays this summer. 1. Alli Champion 2. Jordan Sterley, Kim McConnell, Peyton Sterley and Madden Sterley 3. Chilton County peaches 4. Michelle and Nathan Evans 5. Farm-fresh egglant 6. Carol Moats 7. Pam Weaver 8. Alice Lee and Maddie Ball 9. Farm-fresh bell peppers 10. Amelia and Andrew Weems 11. Market shopping in action 12. Donna Baird, and Toby and Jeannie Wilson 13. Peppers at the market
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PHOTOS BY MALLORY BARRY
Teens prepped dishes using a secret ingredient for a take on the popular TV show at the Library in the Forest on June 12. 1. Shay Lindsay and Tori Little 2. Susan Baskarraj and Jaeliann Sanchez Collins 3. Abby Merriman and Reagan Kessler 4.
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Weston and Riley Hart
5. Addie Kate Phillips and Sophie Williams 6. Evelyn Squires and Alise Caputo
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OUT & ABOUT
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ROGER DAY CONCERT PHOTOS BY MADOLINE MARKHAM
Musician Roger Day encouraged kids to “sing loud, jump high and dream big” at the Library in the Forest on July 19. 1. Christian, Sonya and Mary Kessler Holcomb 2. Roger Day 3. Maddie, Miles and Morgan Flink 4. The Weinacker Family
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5. Emalyn, Gibson, Adair, Cortland, Myla and Grant Powers 6. Philip and Payton Norris 7. Ethan Sansom and Tyler Barton
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MARKETPLACE
Marketplace Vestavia Hills Magazine • 205.669.3131
Acceptance Loan Company. Personal Loans! Let us pay off your title loan! 224 Cahaba Valley Road, Pelham. 205-6635821
Foundry. Positions In: Calera, Clanton, Pelham, Bessemer, McCalla. Walkin applications accepted. Clanton (205)280-0002. Pelham (205)444-9774.
LAWN CARE •Large Properties •Lake Properties •Property Cleanups - Great Rates! Free Estimates! -Shelby and Chilton Counties- 10% DISCOUNT for Military & Senior Citizens. Call Alex 205-955-3439
B & J Metal Fabricators Offering more than roofing! •Metal roofing •Portable metal buildings •Custom sizes available Customize your own!! Montevallo (205)665-4687 (205)296-9988
Class-A CDL Driver. 500 Sign-on Bonus. 25+yo w/good MVR. 6+months flatbed experience. $.38-46cpm (based on experience) On actual miles driven +$.20d/h. Paid tarp/ stopover/layover/ detention. 205-642-9186. Application at: www. angelswaytransportation. com INDUSTRIAL ATHLETES $17.68 hour + production & safety $$$ incentives. Grocery order selection using electric pallet jacks & voice activated headsets. PART-TIME TRUCK DRIVER- CLASS A Average $0.53 per mile deliver palletized loads to grocery stores within 300 mile radius. Work available 7 days/week. Can lead to full-time employment. Clean MVR and 2 years minimum tractor-trailer experience required. Paid vacation & holidays. Blue Cross health & dental insurance. Matching 401k plan. Apply online at AGSOUTH.COM or call Charlie Seagle at (205) 808-4833 Pre-employment drug test required. Automation Personnel Services Hiring IMMEDIATELY For: Automotive Assembly, General Labor, Production, Clerical, Machine Operator, Quality, Carpentry, Welder,
Bama Concrete Now Hiring: Diesel Mechanic 4 Years Minimum Experience. CDL Preferred. Competitive Pay. Great Benefits. Apply in person: 2180 Hwy 87 Alabaster, 35007 Bent Creek Apartments. Affordable 1 and 2 Bedroom. On-site Manager. On-site Maintenance. 3001 7th Street. North Clanton, AL 35045. TDD#s: 800-5482547(V) 800-548-2546(T/A) bentcreek@morrowapts. com Office Hours: MonFri, 8am-4pm. Equal Opportunity Provider/ Employer Maintenance Electrician needed. 10-years experience in motor controls, trouble shooting, programming frequency drives, soft starts, computer skills and electrical installations. Contact Cahaba Veneer at 205-926-9797
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Prefer long term care exp. $3000 sign-on bonus. Cert Dietary Mgr-FT Day. Reqs Diet.Mgr-cert & 4-yrs of exp. $1000 sign-on-bonus. Servers and dishwashers Restaurant exp & strong customer service skills. LPN and Certified Nursing Assistants-All shifts To apply:www.brookdale.com Or visit us at 3850 Galleria Woods Drive Birmingham, AL 35244. For more Info contact Jeff Prince 205.985.7537.
PT/FT Farm Equipment Operator, Lawn Maintenance and Fork Lift Driver Needed. Drug and Background Check Required. Call 205-6880258 to set up Interview.
Taking applications for waitresses for growing business in Clanton Call Teresa: 334-235-0228 or call the restaurant between 4-10pm: 205280-4949
Certified Welders & Tank Fitters needed for field erected tanks. Work done in Southeast. Good pay and benefits. Call 800728-8265 ext 224 Email resume to c.bradley@ esptank.com
ONLINE AUCTIONS www.GTAOnlineAuctions. com 205-326-0833 Granger, Thagard & Assoc. Jack F. Granger #873
Carroll Fulmer Now Hiring Class-A CDL Drivers. Over-the-road positions available. Dry vans. No hazmat. Must have one year over-theroad. Experience and a clean MVR. Competitive pay and bonus package. Good home time. Call 800-633-9710 ext. 2
$2000 SIGN ON BONUS NEW PAY SCALE TO QUALIFYING DRIVERS EVERGREEN TRANSPORT, is accepting applications for local drivers in the Calera and Leeds, AL, area. Must have Class A CDL, good driving record, 1 yr verifiable tractor trailer experience. Good pay and benefits. Apply in person at 8278 Hwy 25 South, Calera, AL, or call for info 205-668-3316.
Birmingham, Al based Transportation Company looking for Class-A CDL drivers. Starting .42/45 1 year Average 2,500/ miles-wk Must be at least 23 years of age. Have 18 months drivingexperience. Please call (205)925-1977 ext. 2309 email:recruiting@ churchtransportation.net City of Clanton is Hiring. Detailed job descriptions on file at City Hall. EOE. Drug screening/physical required.
Boise Cascade Now Hiring for Utility Positions. Starting pay $13/hour. Must be able to pass background screen. Please apply at www.bc.com
Full Time and Part Time RN’s Needed for home health in Bibb, Shelby and Chilton counties. Excellent Salary and Benefits. Please send resumes to jobs@ rubic.com or call 866-2733984
Galleria Woods Senior Living JOIN THE GALLERIA WOODS TEAM Are you tired of 12 hour-shifts? Asst Dir Nursing-Reqs RN nursing degree and current AL RN license/2-4 yrs related exp.
DCH Health System Caring. For Life. $5,000 *Sign-on Bonus for full time RNs *For More Info Contact Annie. Miller@dchsystem.com. Apply online at: www. dchsystem.com
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MECHANICS NEEDED! Evergreen Transport, LLC has two immediate openings for Class B Mechanics at its terminals in Calera, Al and Leeds, AL. Calera position is for night shift (Call Jason at 205-668-3316). The Leeds position will be the day shift (Call Chuck at 1-800-525-5144). Job duties include repairing, maintaining and overhauling of heavy duty fleet truck/trailers and other tasks assigned by supervisor. Franklin Iron Works Now Hiring. Grinders & Laborers. Must apply in person: 146 Tommie Drive, Thorsby. Mon-Fri. 10am3pm.
DRIVERS Hanna Truck Lines is seeking Professional Flatbed Drivers. 53 cpm No surprises: Starting pay (all miles): 51 cpm, 52 cpm at 6 months, 53 cpm at 1 year. 100% Outbounds loads Pre-loaded & Tarped. 75% Inbound No Tarp. Late Model Peterbilt Trucks. Air Ride Trailers. Home weekends. Low cost BCBS Health & Dental Ins. Matching 401K. Qualifications: 18 months Class A CDL driving experience with 6 months flatbed; Applicants must meet all D.O.T. requirements. Contact recruiting at 1-800-6347315 or come by HTL office at 1700 Boone Blvd, Northport. EOE LPN’s, RN’s, CNA’s Full-time & part-time • 2nd & 3rd Shift Apply in person: Hatley Health Care 300 Medical Ctr Dr Clanton, AL 35045 Road and Parking Lot Striping Company NOW HIRING LABORERS. Must be 18+ and have valid driver’s license. Monday-Friday. BCBS/ Paid Holidays/Sick days/ Vacation/401k. Apply in person: 1110 Highway 31, Calera. 205-663-1511 Does your loved one need help at home? Licensed, bonded, insured, affordable homecare offered. Approved Veteran
MARKETPLACE Service Contractor & LTC Insurance accepted. Livein-Care Available. Call us today! 205-453-4285 Industrial Coatings Group, Inc. is hiring experienced sandblasters and industrial painters. Must be able to pass a drug test & E-verify check. Professional references required. Must be willing to travel. Please send resume to icgsecretary@ hotmail.com or call (205) 612-2064. Kelly Educational Staffing® We’re hiring! •Substitute teachers •Aides •Cafeteria •Clerical •Custodial positions Shelby County School District & Alabaster City Schools. Please call 205-8707154 -Equal Opportunity EmployerOwner Operators Wanting Dedicated Year Round Anniston, AL www.pull4klb.com Need FREE help with your Medicare? Call your State Health Insurance Assistance Program (SHIP) today at (800)AGE-LINE (800)-243-5463. M&M Trucking Company hiring experienced trailer and tractor trailer drivers. Minimum three years verifiable experience required. Tanker and dump experience a plus. Apply in person w/MVR at M&M Trucking Company. 980 Lee Road. Auburn, AL 36830. Marble Valley Manor. Affordable 1 and 2 Bedroom Apartments for Elderly & Disabled. Many on-site services! 2115 Motes Rd, Sylacauga. 256245-6500 •TDD#s: 800548-2547(V) •800-5482546(T/A). Office Hours: Mon-Fri, 8am-4pm. Equal Opportunity Provider/ Employer Are you a motivated professional? Are you looking for a dynamic career? Are you ready to control your own level of success? See why McKinnons’ is an
exciting place to work and grow. Now accepting applications for Sales, Service, and Detail Shop. Apply with the receptionist. 205-755-3430 Shake up your career!!! Are you looking for something new and FUN? Milo’s is always looking for great managers to come join our growing and dynamic team. Apply online at miloshamburgers.com Montgomery Stockyard Drop Station at Gray & Son’s in Clanton. Call Lane at 205-389-4530. For other hauling arrangements, contact Wes in Harpersville 205-965-8657 Production Jobs. Willing to Train. AAM in Columbiana is HIRING for multiple shifts. Email resume to dcurtis@grede. com or apply in person: 130 Industrial Pkwy, Columbiana, AL 35051 NOW HIRING Class-A CDL Driver Must have clean driving record, two years experience Will train drivers on tank Drivers home nightly Contact Keith at: 205-438-4959 INDUSTRIAL CLEANING IN VANCE Requirements: •18 Years Old •HS Diploma/GED •Able to work variable shifts/ weekends/holidays •Able to lift up to 50lbs constantly, stand on your feet for 8hrs •Able to pass drug screen/background check Complete your application on line at www. naonsite.com Production / Manufacturing Vance, Alabama Starting pay: $12.00 – $14.50 /hr. • Have 2 years+ Production/ Manufacturing experience. • Have Recently Lived in Alabama at least 2 years. • Have A High School Diploma or GED. • Are at least 18 years old. Complete your application on line at www.naonsite. com Oxford Healthcare in Montgomery currently hiring certified CNA’s and/ or Home Health aides in
the Clanton, Marbury and Maplesville areas. Must be able to pass complete background check, have reliable transportation and have a strong work ethic. Serious inquires only. Call 334-409-0035 or apply on-line at www. Oxfordhealthcare.com Class A CDL Drivers Needed Immediately for Dump Trailer Hauling • $2000 Retention Bonus • Local Hauling • Home Nights APPLY ONLINE: www.perdidotrucking.com Perdido Trucking Service, LLC 251-470-0355 Move in Special! 3/2 Garden Home w/garage. Dishwasher, Fenced backyard, Great Room w/ vaulted Ceiling. Calera Schools. Rent $1150. FLAT SCREEN TV!! (205)4339811 Soon the Mark of the Beast Will Be Enforced. Free Book & Bible Study. PO Box 171 • Samantha, AL 35482 205-339-4837 Order Selectors Food Dist. Center in Pelham Day-Shift: Mon-Fri. 40+ hours/week 10:00AM until finished (varies). Salary: $16-20/hr after training. Benefits: Medical, vision, dental, vacation & 401k. Requirements: •Reading & math skills •Lift 40 lbs. repetitively •Work in -10 Temperature Apply in person: 8:30AM-5:00PM Southeastern Food 201 Parker Drive Pelham, Alabama 35124 resume@ southeasternfood.com
LIQUIDATION AUCTION August 4, 10:00AM 610 7th St, Clanton,AL Liquidating contents of BrenWils Flea Mkt. www. auctionzip.com ID#8507 Ken Yates, Auctioneer Lic. #1782 256-276-8091 256396-5381
WCA • Roll Off Drivers needed for our Alpine, AL location. Class A or B CDL is required along with one (1) year of verifiable equivalent commercial truck driving experience. Must have a valid and safe driving record. We offer competitive wages & a comprehensive benefits package which includes: Medical, Dental, Vision, 401k, Life Insurance, Short & Long Term Disability, Paid Holidays and PTO. Please apply through our website at www.wcawaste. com EOE M/F/D/V
Immediate Positions!!!! Positions needed: Warehouse • Sales Reps • Assistant Manager • Delivery Drivers • Customer Service. Laid back atmosphere, good pay, plenty of hours available! Company vehicles to qualified individuals! Call Andrew 9am-7pm • Mon-Sat at (205)490-1003 or (205)243-6337 CLOCK REPAIR SVS. * Setup * Repair * Maintenance. I can fix your Mother’s clock. Alabaster/ Pelham. Call Stephen (205)663-2822 Electrician - FT Supreme Electric, local-based company in Pelham. Must be willing to learn & work hard. Go to: supremeelectric-al. com Print employment application under Contact Us. Mail to: Supreme Electric 231 Commerce Pkwy Pelham, AL 35124 or call 205-453-9327.
WARRIOR MET COAL NOW HIRING Located in Brookwood, AL Immediate need for experienced: •Underground Miners •Electricians •Maintenance Foreman •Supervisors Apply online: www.warriormetcoal.com NOW HIRING: •Master Plumber •Experienced Plumber’s Helper •Experienced Plumber Call 205-755-8555 Need appliance or air conditioner parts? How about a water filter for your refrigerator? We have it all at A-1 Appliance Parts! Call 1-800-841-0312 www.A-1Appliance.com
TaylorMade Transportation Hiring CDL Drivers for Flatbed Regional Division! BCBS Insurance After 30 Days. To apply call: (334)3662269 or email: s.smith@ taylormadeinc.com
White Oak Transportation is hiring CDL-A drivers in your area. Great Pay! Excellent Benefits! Visit our website www.whiteoaktrans.com for more information EOEM/F/D/V
The Painting Company of Birmingham Immediate openings for professional residential and commercial painters. Must be able to speak English. Call 205-9955559”
Warehouse Team Member Call (205) 9127365 or visit www.Hibbett. com Great Benefits
Become a Dental Assistant in ONLY 8 WEEKS! Please visit our website capstonedentalassisting. com or call (205)5618118 and get your career started!
LARGEST SELECTION OF WHOLESALE VEHICLES IN THE SOUTHEAST Over 350 vehicles available for direct sale daily! Live auction every Thursday 6:30p.m. (205)744-4030 birminghamautoauction. com Housing Authority of the Birmingham District Hiring: Homeownership Lease-Purchase Facilitator Resident Services Coordinator-ROSS Human Resources Specialist Compliance Data Analysis Application Data Entry Clerk Assistant Vice President ofHousing Operations Director of Public Safety Custodian View complete description and apply at www.habd.org or 1826 3rdAvenueSouth Birmingham, Al 35233
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MY VESTAVIA HILLS TRACIE & JEFF DUGAS
Vestavia Parents + VHHS Team Physician (Jeff) + Liberty Park Residents
Greenery & Gifts
Take Me Out To The
Leaf & Petal We find everything we could ever want for our yard and inside here, and beautiful gifts as well. You can get a “Petal Points” card and receive $20 gift certificate after 10 punches.
Baseball Fields The Wald Park and Cahaba Heights baseball fields have held so many great baseball memories through the years. We spent countless hours cheering on the Yankees, always our son’s team and Jeff’s Major League team too. So many lifelong friendships were made between kids and adults!
Caffeine Boost
Alabama Biscuit The best vanilla latte in town can be found at Alabama Biscuit. We all love the biscuits, but the Sausage, Egg and Cheese, and the Goat Cheese, Pecan and Honey are our favorites. Often we just stop for a latte though.
Home Sweet Home
Liberty Park We LOVE living in Liberty Park. It’s such a great family neighborhood with lots of walking trails and lakes for fishing. We especially enjoy the community park with entertainment, farmers market and food trucks—and of course the fantastic public schools right in our backyard.
PHOTO BY MARY FEHR
Fresh in Five
Cahaba Heights Eateries Sexton’s Seafood has great fresh seafood—and also crawfish in season that you can pick up and put in your cooler ready to eat! At New York Butcher Shoppe, the Cahaba Chops and broccoli salad are must-tries.
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