THE STYLINGS OF WINNEFRED AUSTIN • ORNAMENTS 4 ORPHANS • HISTORIC TUDOR RENOVATION
THE JAY BARKER SHOW
meet the
BEHIND THE SCENES
BAKER
A CHAT WITH SHELBY ADAMS
NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2018 HomewoodLife.com Volume Two | Issue Six $4.95
With 12,000 square feet of meeting spaces, unique catering and intuitive service, you’re free to unlock what inspires you. Sign your team up for Cooking School and learn how to craft a new dish, or mix up your agenda and create your own bottle in our Wine Blending Experience. Leave the doors open for the unfamiliar and turn moments between schedules into memorable experiences.
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With its tree-lined streets, broad sidewalks, and plentiful green spaces, Mt Laurel is a sustainable neighborhood offering a relaxed pace of life, a place with a unique identity, planned in concert with nature. For information on The Town of Mt Laurel, visit mtlaurel.com or call (205) 408-8696.
HomewoodLife.com 1
I am Brookwood. The community of care.
Elizabeth Vernon, RN Nurse Elizabeth Vernon provides palliative care with unfailing compassion to her patients. Every person she touches, from the elderly patient to the concerned and frustrated family, receives the same empathy, patience, and dedicated attention. She embodies the care that is the foundation of the Brookwood community.
Read more employee stories at BrookwoodBaptistHealth.com/CommunityofCare
Twenty-seven wooded, beautiful homesites have been released in The Willows at Willow Point, 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 find out more, call 256.215.7011.
Visit RussellLandsOnLakeMartin.com
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M O D E R N N E W B O R N + C H I L D + FA M I LY P O R T R A I T U R E INFOAPEPPERMINTPHOTO.COM | 205.807.6431 H E I R LO O M A L B U M S | A R C H I VA L Q UA L I T Y P O R T R A I T S
W W W. A P E P P E R M I N T P H O T O . C O M 4 November/December 2018
HomewoodLife.com 5
FEATURES
56
HIDDEN TREASURES Through Ornaments 4 Orphans, Scott and Jamie Laslo are uncovering new ways to fight systemic poverty in Uganda. And it’s not through adoption.
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INSIDE THE HUDDLE A former quarterback, a sports reporter and a musician/ producer are talking sports on air from a studio on a familiar street. Here’s a peek behind the scenes of The Jay Barker Show.
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SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION
What should you buy for friends and loved ones this season? Look no further than the shops right around you.
6 November/December 2018
PHOTO BY MARY FEHR
HOLIDAY GIFT GUIDE
35
56
PHOTO BY LINDSEY CULVER
arts & culture
21 A Note from Winnefred: Artist-Entrepreneur Ashley Steiner 28 Read This Book: Picture Books for Fall/Winter
schools & sports
29 No Place Like Home: Alumni-Turned-Teachers 34 Five Questions For: Edgewood’s Playground Donor
food
& drink
35 Sweet + Savory: The Chef Behind Icing on the Cookie 42 Five Questions For: The Big Spoon Creamery Founders
home
in every issue 8 Contributors 9 From the Editor 11 #HomewoodLife 13 The Question 15 The Guide 78 Chamber Connections 80 Out & About 86 Marketplace 88 My Homewood
& style
43 Room for Us All: New Life for the Whaleys’ Historic Tudor 53 At Home: Bold & Beautiful Bedroom 54 In Style: Where Comfy Meets Cute
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contributors EDITORIAL
Graham Brooks Stephen Dawkins Alec Etheredge Briana Harris Madoline Markham Keith McCoy Emily Sparacino Neal Wagner
CONTRIBUTORS
Jessica Clement Solomon Crenshaw Jr. James Culver Lindsey Culver Mary Fehr Madison Freeman Ashley Kappel Elizabeth Sturgeon Lauren Ustad
DESIGN
Connor Bucy Jamie Dawkins Kate Sullivan
MARKETING
Kristy Brown Kari George Rachel Henderson Daniel Holmes Rhett McCreight Kim McCulla Lindsay Milligan Viridiana Romero Kerrie Thompson
ADMINISTRATION Hailey Dolbare Mary Jo Eskridge Katie McDowell Stacey Meadows Tim Prince
Solomon Crenshaw Jr., Writer
A native of Birmingham, Solomon has developed a long-standing reputation as a writer who is adept at telling a story that is both enlightening and entertaining. While sports has long been a staple of his work, Solomon has now established himself as a communicator who is also comfortable addressing entertainment, general features and a myriad of other matters. Reach him at screnshawjr@solcrenjr.com.
Mary Fehr, Photographer
Mary is a wedding and portrait photographer based out of Birmingham. She studied art and art history at University of Montevallo. She likes to teach and plans on getting her MFA in order to do so. Mary also loves to travel and has a goal of photographing a wedding in every state! She enjoys reading non-fiction, going to concerts and spending time with her family.
Elizabeth Sturgeon, Writer
Elizabeth Sturgeon studies English at Samford University and will graduate next spring. She hopes to pursue some kind of writing profession after graduation. A Birmingham native, she’s a vegetarian living in the South and enjoys staying close to home and learning more about Birmingham. When she has time away from writing papers, Elizabeth loves drawing and watercolor painting, and she’s attempting to watch all of the classic movies she has never seen.
Lauren Ustad, Photographer
Lauren lives in Homewood with her husband, Joe, their three daughters, and their 2-pound Yorkie they refer to as “Boobie.” She spends her professional time posing itty bitties and chasing little munchkins. In her free time you can probably find her slaving away at their most current renovation project or building Legos with her self-proclaimed super heroes.
Homewood Life is published bimonthly by Shelby County Newspapers Inc., P.O. Box 947, Columbiana, AL 35051. Homewood Life 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, Homewood Life, P.O. Box 947, Columbiana, AL 35051. Homewood Life is mailed to select households throughout Homewood, and a limited number of free copies are available at local businesses. Please visit HomewoodLife.com for a list of those locations. Subscriptions are available at a rate of $16.30 for one year by visiting HomewoodLife.com or calling (205) 669-3131, ext. 532. Advertising inquiries may be made by emailing advertise@homewoodlife.com, or by calling (205) 669-3131, ext. 536.
8 November/December 2018
from the editor
T
ON THE COVER
Meet the Baker
Shelby Adams and his team cook up and ice up all sorts of sweet and savory treats at Icing on the Cookie. Photo by Mary Fehr Design by Connor Bucy
To be fully transparent, this is the last page of Homewood Life that is written for every issue. It starts with me opening a blank Word document and staring at a list of stories I have been cultivating. And then I have to find something to say about them to propel you forward into all the goodness that lies ahead. It’s the same reason fiction writing intimidates me—because it feels like you have to conjure something out of nothing. The rest of the pages, however, are just the opposite. I feel like all we do is keep our eyes open to cool things happening around us in Homewood, and then we go ask questions about them, take some pictures, work some magic and boom you have a magazine. Our Ornaments 4 Orphans story started when writer Elizabeth Sturgeon interviewed Scott and Jamie Laslo about their store for a class project and realized there was another story there: that of what they have learned about adoption not often being the best way to address the number of orphans they saw in Uganda. It was our publisher Tim Prince who first tipped me off that the new Jay Barker Show was being produced in Homewood, and being football season and all, now was the time to send my go-to sports writer Solomon Crenshaw Jr. to find out more about it. Elizabeth, our stellar intern from this summer, also told me about Ashley Steiner’s stationery and other pretty paperie products you can find at O’Henry’s and other places, and we got her running on that story as a fun way to give a shout out to all the awesomeness that happens where they both are in college at Samford. There are a million food stories to tell in Homewood, but writer Ashley Kappel thought Icing on the Cookie was just the right one for the holidays. The photos Mary Fehr captured there certainly brighten my day each time I Iook at them. Most of the way I find houses to feature is by asking architects, builders and interior designers about their projects and if they can connect me with homeowners, which took me to Gigi and Mitchell Whaley’s stunning renovation of their Tudor home. Perhaps the most fun fact to learn was that Gigi babysat for the family who lived in that house when she was a student at Homewood High School. One of my favorite ways to find stories though is by hearing from you our readers. Whose house makes you say “wow” when you enter it? Who is making a difference? What neighbor has the best stories? I’d love to hear your ideas for stories for our 2019 issues any time. Happy reading, and happy holidays!
madoline.markham@homewoodlife.com
HomewoodLife.com 9
m o r e t o e x p l o r e a t h o m e:
205.879.3510 2921
18 T H S T ,
HOMEWOOD AL 35209
ATHOME-FURNISHINGS.COM
10 November/December 2018
#HomewoodLife
Tag @HomewoodLife in your Homewood photos on Instagram, and we’ll pick our favorites to regram and publish on this page in each issue.
@rutledgewood
Tonight has to be one of my favorite #SouthernAndHungry‘s EVER! We went to my hometown of Birmingham, AL & hit some amazing spots! We went to Homewood to the legendary @johnnyshomewood & got wowed again! Honestly, that’s some of the greatest chicken I’ve ever had!
@steph_holley8
Our 3rd little one to attend the Bell Center. Our 2nd to go as a Peer Model. This one is extra sweet because Mary Kate actually did one summer session at the Bell Center for therapy as a baby because she was extra stiff. So thankful she is there now as a peer and everything is right on track! She is wearing big sister’s dress.!
@scottbutler1
Ms Homecoming Queen 2018
@studiobythetracks
Curious about our new store? Check out our story to learn more! See you at the Grand Opening this Thursday from 6pm - 7pm!
HomewoodLife.com 11
Please Join the BBVA 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!
Bromberg's Ricky Bromberg
Mountain Brook
Chamber of commerce
12 November/December 2018
“ ” THE QUESTION
What’s your favorite part of the holidays in Homewood? Holiday Open house in downtown the first Thursday in November! Love seeing all the Christmas stuff and visiting all the stores.
The lighting of the Homewood Star over 18th Street.
The Christmas trees that line the streets in Edgewood.
Casey Dunn’s front yard... enough said.
Riding with my dad and stepmom and my girls in the Homewood Christmas Parade every year since I can remember. Throwing out T-shirts, footballs, candy and cookies!
The house right past the Exceptional Foundation on the opposite side of the street has a Christmas tree that is on the front porch and another on top of the roof of the porch.
We start our Christmas light tour on Barry, then drive around looking at all the decorated homes while listening to Christmas music. It is one of our favorite traditions as a family.
Watching all the lighted Christmas trees go up in lawns during the first week of December. It just lifts the spirit and sets the tone for a beautiful and loved holiday season.
-Beverly Brice LeBoeuf
-Kristen Lawrence Milling
-Meredith Montgomery
-Mackenzie Coan
-Brett Cole
-Ben McCullars
-Martha Wurtele Jones
-Amber Joi Thomas
HomewoodLife.com 13
14 November/December 2018
THE GUIDE
HOLIDAY OPEN HOUSE NOV. 8 5 P.M. DOWNTOWN HOMEWOOD Get a head start on the holiday shopping season at this annual Homewood Chamber of Commerce event. Peruse your favorite downtown Homewood shops and enjoy refreshments, hors d’oeuvres, a trolley, shopping discounts and more. Photo by James Culver HomewoodLife.com 15
THE GUIDE
WHAT TO DO IN HOMEWOOD NOV. 4 Friends of the Homewood Public Library $5 Bag Sale 2-4:30 p.m. Friends Bookstore (Lower Level) NOV. 9 Vodka: A Spirited Seminar *Register on library website Homewood Public Library 6:30-8 p.m.
NOV. 14
Grateful Dads Fall Band Jam 5:30-9:30 P.M. Cahaba Brewing
Come out to see Homewood dads jam away over some local brews and bites. Plus, it all benefits the Homewood City Schools Foundation. This year’s show will feature Three Legged Dog, Talent Show and Legal Limit, plus food from Little Donkey. Get your tickets on eventbright.com and get ready to rock “DadHead” style.
NOV. 9
Jingle All the Way
6:30 P.M. HORS D’OEUVRES, 7:30 P.M. PROGRAM Homewood Public Library What’s better to get you in the holiday spirit than stories and music? Be sure to make reservations to claim your seat. Tickets are $25 and will be available beginning Nov. 5 online or at the library’s Adult Services Desk.
DEC. 14-16, 21-23
The Nutcracker FRIDAY & SATURDAY 7:30 P.M. SATURDAY & SUNDAY 2:30 P.M. Samford University Wright Center
Did you know only eight companies in the world are licensed by The Balanchine Trust to perform the George Balanchine version of The Nutcracker, and one of them is the Alabama Ballet? Come get transported to the lands of sugar plum fairies and toy soldiers with Tchaikovsky melodies. 16 November/December 2018
NOV. 12 Veterans Day Homewood City Schools Closed NOV. 13 Audrey Atkins Author of They Call Me Orange Juice Homewood Public Library 6:30-7:30 p.m. NOV. 11-12 John Crist Human Being Tour Samford University Wright Center NOV. 16 Shred It! 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Homewood Public Library Back Parking Lot NOV. 20 Homewood Chamber Luncheon Featuring Graham Boettcher of Birmingham Museum of Art 11:30 a.m.-1 p.m. The Club NOV. 21-23 Homewood City Schools Closed Thanksgiving NOV. 24 Small Business Saturday DEC. 1 Miss Heritage Homewood High School 7 p.m. DEC. 14 Homewood City Schools First Semester Ends
THE GUIDE DEC. 14 Classic Movies at the Library Presented by OLLI Homewood Public Library 1-4 p.m. DEC. 16 Sounds of the Season by Opera Birmingham Samford University Brock Recital Hall DEC. 17 Teen Ugly Sweater Design Party Homewood Public Library 3:30-4:30 p.m. DEC. 18 Homewood Chamber Luncheon & Annual Meeting 11:30 a.m.-1 p.m. The Club DEC. 18 Libraryflix: Elf Homewood Public Library 3:30-5 p.m.
DEC. 4
Downtown Homewood Christmas Parade 6:30 P.M. Downtown Homewood
You can’t get much more Homewood than the lighting of the 18th Street star, and the annual parade is the same night to boot. After the parade ends at City Hall Plaza, a special visitor in a big red suit will arrive, the Homewood High School Band will play and the Christmas tree will be lit. Photo by James Culver
HomewoodLife.com 17
THE GUIDE HOMEWOOD BAND
AROUND TOWN NOV. 2-4 Moss Rock Festival Moss Rock Preserve, Hoover NOV. 2-11 Tartuffe Virginia Samford Theatre NOV. 11 National Veterans Day Parade Downtown Birmingham NOV. 14-17 Market Noel Presented by the Junior League of Birmingham The Finley Center Hoover Metropolitan Complex NOV. 16-18 The Turn of a Screw Virginia Samford Theatre
On To NYC Since 1978
Look out Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade, they’ll be back this year, 40 years after their first debut and the ninth time to go! And the talented Liz Landgren (also a band mom!) commemorated the Homewood Patriot Marching Band trip with this painting. She’s also selling prints and ornament versions of the piece. Watch the parade on NBC starting at 8 a.m. CST.
BUSINESS
Now Open for Business Here’s your update on what stores and restaurants are open, opening and closed. •
•
•
•
Get your makeup done, a blowout and more at Blo Blow Dry Bar at Hallman Hill in downtown Homewood. Sprout & Pour moved from Edgewood to Founders Station in downtown Birmingham, and Big Spoon Creamery will be serving up ice cream in its place. Planning an event? Check out 2713 Christopher Glenn on 19th Street in downtown Homewood, pictured on the right. Maya Mexican Restaurant is now serving up, you guessed it, Mexican food (cheese dip please) on Oxmoor Road.
18 November/December 2018
NOV. 19-20 Sesame Street Live! Elmo & Friends BJCC Concert Hall NOV. 24-25 Great Southern Gun & Knife Show BJCC Exhibition Hall NOV. 29 Steve Martin & Martin Short BJCC Concert Hall NOV. 30-DEC. 16 RMTC Holiday Spectacular Red Mountain Theatre Company DEC. 1-2 The Nutcracker Presented by the Birmingham Ballet Alabama Theatre DEC. 3 Chris Tomlin: Christmas Songs of Worship Alabama Theatre DEC. 14-16, 21-23 Alabama Ballet’s The Nutcracker Samford University Wright Center DEC. 7 Alabama Symphony
THE GUIDE Home for the Holidays Samford University Wright Center DEC. 7-22 Holiday Movies Alabama Theatre DEC. 9 Trans-Siberian Orchestra BJCC Legacy Arena DEC. 13 Mannheim Steamroller BJCC Legacy Arena DEC. 18 A Very Electric Christmas Alys Stephens Center DEC. 10-11 Birmingham Boys Choir Christmas Concert Briarwood Presbyterian Church DEC. 22-31 It’s a Wonderful Life Live! Virginia Samford Theatre
NOV. 29
Christmas Collective 10 A.M.-7 P.M. 316 Poinciana Drive
What do you buy the person who has everything? Something made by a local artist of course. This free event will feature handmade pottery by Susan Gordon Pottery, Carrie Pittman Fine Art, wreaths by Huckleberry Collective, original works By Lacey, art by Hutton Harsh, paintings by Vaughan Spanjer, custom paper goods by Empress Stationery, and handcrafted woodworks by Alabama Sawyer, with treats and cocktails by Savor Style to boot. For more information, email info@susangordonpottery.com.
DEC. 6
Legacy League Home Tour 10 A.M.–2 P.M. AND 4-8 P.M.
Tour homes in all their festive glory—plus festive hors d’oeuvres and a holiday gift market at the Samford president’s home. Proceeds benefit the Legacy League’s scholarships to Samford University for students with significant financial need and challenging circumstances. For tickets visit samford.edu/legacyleague/.
Caring for your Family
Celia Davenport, DMD 2940 Clairmont Ave S, Birmingham 205-277-2297 davenportdentalandwellness.com HomewoodLife.com 19
SETHI C O U T U R E
Wallace-Burke Fine Jewelry & Collectibles 1811 29th Ave S, Homewood, AL 35209 205-874-1044 20 November/December 2018
&CULTURE
ARTS
A NOTE FROM WINNEFRED
This Samford University student is equal parts artist and entrepreneur. BY ELIZABETH STURGEON PHOTOS BY LINDSEY CULVER HomewoodLife.com 21
E
Envelopes, tea cups, flowers, houses. When Ashley Steiner went to London this past January, English charm inspired her. She studied abroad with Samford University, living in their housing in Kensington and getting a chance to walk through the streets of Notting Hill lined with little shops (and a wintery chill). Here she gathered ideas for her drawings that she’s incorporated as designs for notecards, calendars and notebooks for her new company she launched in August—Winnefred Austin. Though bringing a new name to her company, Ashley is not new to the business world. The Samford senior has run her paper company for five
22 November/December 2018
One of Ashley Steiner’s favorite items is the Seasons of Faith Calendar, made up of 12 printed cards that you can put on a desk or a bulletin board, topped with a different drawing and Bible verse for each month.
years, previously called Ashley Ink & Paperie. But even with this new branding, her designs are still the same classic style. Her go-to colors are gold and blush, followed by rich reds and greens that make her drawings pop and just carry joy in their brightness. The name holds the essence of what she seeks in her business, and that too ties to her love for traveling in London. Before Ashley left, her mom did a little research and found that the link to their British heritage to their American roots was Winnefred Austin, Ashley’s grandmother from 13 generations ago. “We don’t have a photo of her or anything other than where she lived in London and
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Ashley Steiner, founder of a Winnefred Austin, is a senior at Samford University.
then Virginia, but it’s been cool to write the story around her and how that connects to my family,” she says. “We like to think of her as a London lady turned American pioneer.” And her spirit, or the spirit they imagine in Winnefred, is what Ashley seeks to achieve in her work, though of course sticking to what she’s always done. Since the day she could hold a crayon, Ashley reflects, she was drawing, getting that artistic gene from her mom who’s loved to draw and paint. Then, that initial love turned into notecards, a kind of giftgiving. “For a long time, I’d made handmade greeting cards for friends and family just as a hobby,” she says, remembering the cupcakes she first drew for her classmates in Arkansas, where she and her family lived before she left for Samford and they moved to Birmingham shortly after. As she made cards for friend after friend, her mom suggested she make reproductions of her original drawings and begin to sell them, leading to the creation of Ashley Ink & Paperie the summer before her junior year of high school. “I never thought that people could be HomewoodLife.com 23
“
We don’t have a photo of (Winnefred) or anything other than where she lived in London and then Virginia, but it’s been cool to write the story around her and how that connects to my family. We like to think of her as a London lady turned American pioneer. -Ashley Steiner
24 November/December 2018
”
overjoyed by something so simple like a greeting card,” she says. With a blend of marker and colored pencil along with an ink outline, Ashley creates vibrant drawings for her products, photographs them and formats the card or page on her iPad. “The most technical part of the process, our secret sauce, is the drawings,” she says. “It’s so relaxing, it doesn’t feel like work. I draw the things that inspire me and that I like to see.” The pencil blends seamlessly into the marker, and her work almost looks like watercolor. There’s a softness mixed with her bright color to create the whimsy of her designs to bring a smile to someone’s face. Her paper goods will always be the foundation of her company, but Ashley has brought some new products to the table under the Winnefred story, too. She’s starting a bridal line with wedding gift and shower notebooks to keep everything organized, laced with Ashley’s designs from colorful gift boxes to a classic white cake. With her launch, she also introduced the Austin Tall Tote, her first lifestyle product. It’s “something functional, simple and goes with everything” in her words, and she’s loving the range of people who are using the gray tote, from her grandmother’s best friend (who ordered the bag in the HomewoodLife.com 25
first week of her launch) to her own friends. Ashley and her mom do everything, from the shipping and orders to the social media and drawings, with some business tips here and there from Samford. Through her entrepreneurship major, Ashley has been able to grow her business and rebrand it as a part of her school curriculum, getting to draw and color new designs in her dorm room. She’s been a part of the Brock School of Business Student Incubator, giving students like
Ashley a desk in the school to run their own businesses. “I have a really strong community surrounding me, whether it’s going to business competitions or having a question and walking down the hall to a professor’s office.” But behind all she’s learning about business, she’s sticking true to this story of Winnefred. “It’s been neat to write a story around her. I believe that entrepreneurs are some of the best storytellers, and the name is giving us the chance to tell the story of our company,” Ashley says. And the colorful charm of her London inspiration has made her designs perfect for the Homewood community where she’s thriving. Though not even a college graduate, Ashley’s been asked to speak at her elementary and middle schools in Arkansas. “I love going and talking to kids because when I was that age, I was making greeting cards in my art room at home,” she says. “It’s such a neat thing to say, ‘You never know what you can accomplish if you really set out and do it.’” To see more of Ashley’s designs, follow her company on Instagram @winnefredaustin or visit winnefredaustin.com. Find Ashley’s products in Homewood at O’Henry’s on Lakeshore Drive, Alabama Goods and the Samford University Bookstore.
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NOV 1–4 DisneyOnIce.com 26 November/December 2018
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READ THIS BOOK
Picture Books for Fall/Winter Recommendations from
Laura Tucker
Head of Children’s Services Homewood Public Library
Laura Tucker loves picture books and sharing them as part of her weekly Sensory Storytime on Wednesday mornings at 10:30 a.m. at our favorite library. She also wishes that she could play an instrument, but she’ll just settle for holding one instead like in this photo. When we asked her to share some book recommendations, she came up with a list of titles that made her think of seasonal changes and fort building to keep you occupied inside when the weather gets cool.
The Little Red Fort
By Brenda Maier, illustrated by Sonia Sanchez In this new, complementary take on the Little Red Hen, Ruby wants to build a fort, but none of her brothers are willing to help. Instead of doing nothing, she learns how to do it all herself. The end pages of the book invite the reader to build forts of their own out of pillows, sheets and even snow (if you can get it in Alabama).
The Day You Begin
By Jacqueline Woodson, illustrated by Rafael Lopez This highly anticipated picture book release is a very relatable story about feeling like an outsider, especially when you are starting in a new classroom. This book reminds us that even though it is hard and sometimes uncomfortable to share our story with others, it is when we share our stories and celebrate our differences that we are brought together.
Tap the Magic Tree
By Christie Matheson This interactive picture books invites readers and listeners to tap, shake and clap this book into life. Each turn of the page brings a new surprise that delights kids of all ages! Tap the Magic Tree cleverly outlines the circular life cycle of a tree and highlights each season.
Bat Citizens: Defending the Ninjas of the Night
By Rob Laidlaw I thought I knew a decent amount about bats until I read this latest book by Rob Laidlaw. My favorite part of this book is that it highlights kids around the world who are concentrating their efforts to help bats and bring awareness to ways we can all help the ninjas of the night.
We Don’t Eat Our Classmates
By Ryan T. Higgins Penelope the dinosaur who is nervous about her first day in a new classroom. Since Penelope has never been to school, she doesn’t know that you’re not supposed to eat your classmates (who are all human by the way). This book is a fun way to talk about empathy and how our behavior affects others around us.
28 November/December 2018
SCHOOL
&SPORTS
THERE’S NO PLACE LIKE HOME When you teach in the halls you once walked as a student, life comes full circle. BY MADOLINE MARKHAM PHOTOS CONTRIBUTED HomewoodLife.com 29
For some teachers, their roots in Homewood schools run deeper than their current classroom. What’s it like to see your students walk the same halls and play on the same fields as you did as a student? We asked a few people who know. 30 November/December 2018
AUSTIN BONDS
Homewood Middle School Seventh Grade Social Studies Teacher 2005 HHS Graduate Years Teaching: 8
BECKY VEDEL SALLS
Hall-Kent Elementary School Technology Specialist 1976 HHS Graduate Years Teaching: 39 FAVORITE MEMORIES AS A STUDENT: One of my favorite memories is being on safety patrol in sixth grade (pictured on page 29). Unlike our safety patrol today, we were stationed on the corners of Raleigh Avenue, Hall Avenue and Cobb Street. We were quite a bit away from the school. We carried stop flags on poles and had whistles! It was quite an honor to be chosen and given that responsibility. Also, I believe in my day we called the Fall Festival the Halloween Carnival, but the excitement it brings to this community is still the same as it was when it started 83 years ago. FAVORITE MEMORIES AS A TEACHER: I thoroughly enjoyed my 20 years in the classroom. Now as tech specialist, not only do I get to help guide students in digital learning at all grade levels, but I also work with teachers in developing their knowledge of this ever-changing digital world and guide them as they integrate technology into their daily lessons. BEST PART OF BEING BACK: Seeing others that were students come back to teach here also. It is fun to reminisce with them! Several I taught, others were in different classes, but I remember each of them as students. They love and know HallKent as a special place just as I do. WHAT HAS CHANGED OR NOT CHANGED: When I was a student in the ’60s and ’70s, Hall-Kent was a first through sixth grade school. There were only one or two classes per grade level. I know my sixth grade class had 39 students. Today, we now have an enrollment of over 700 students, and each grade level has five or six class units. One thing that has remained the same at HallKent is the closeness of our school community. I have seen a lot of students, teachers, and administrators come and go in my 38 years, but I continue to feel a family closeness even as new faces walk through the door.
FAVORITE MEMORIES AS A STUDENT: I was supported by teachers and coaches who believed that, even though we were crazy middle schoolers, we had great potential, and they were willing to invest in us. From teachers going above and beyond to make learning relevant, to awesome pep rallies and football games, there was always excitement. FAVORITE MEMORIES AS A TEACHER: My favorite memory was a middle school football game where we held a cross country meet before the game, and it ended in the stadium right before the football game started. Everyone was able to be there and support both groups. BEST PART OF BEING BACK: I think it’s continuing the legacy of welcoming people from all over the world into our school. I think diversity is a huge part of our community as a whole, but our schools are unique in that people of many faiths, income levels, parts of our country, and parts of the world are all together. WHAT HAS CHANGED OR NOT CHANGED: The building is new and there is more technology readily available, but the teachers and students still share a positive relationship based on mutual respect and the desire to see students grow and become successful at whatever they chose to do with their life.
HomewoodLife.com 31
TOMMY LYAS
Homewood High School 11th/12th Grade Science Teacher 1994 HHS Graduate Years Teaching: 17 years FAVORITE MEMORIES AS A STUDENT: Being able to travel out of the country for the first time in my life. I took Spanish for four years so that this could happen. We travelled to Cuernavaca, Mexico, for a week to experience the culture and language with a local family. In return, they came back to U.S. to do the same. Homewood gave me this opportunity and an experience I will never forget. FAVORITE MEMORIES AS A TEACHER: Some of my favorite moments are enjoying the excitement of pep rallies which make me want to play football again, looking at the pod decorations, and enjoying our diverse student body helping each other achieve. BEST PART OF BEING BACK: Seeing the demolition and construction of buildings that provided many memories. Also, for the past three, I have taught one of my classmates’ son or daughter. It is so ironic I can pick them out because they look just like their mom or dad. WHAT HAS CHANGED OR NOT CHANGED: The support from administration, co-workers and community has not changed. Everyone always checks on you to make sure you are ok, and that has made it an easy transition back.
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JOHN DOROUGH
Edgewood Elementary PE Teacher + HMS Basketball and Baseball Coach 1987 HHS Graduate Years Teaching: 23 FAVORITE MEMORIES AS A STUDENT: My mom was usually room mom, and every year at Christmas she would bring Christmas tree-shaped ice cream for our snack at the Christmas party. The Spring Festival was a big deal and also meant that summer was not too far away. FAVORITE MEMORIES AS A TEACHER: Easily my most memorable experience teaching was having the opportunity to teach both of my boys, Lawton (22) and Jack (18). Being able to see them every day throughout their time here at Edgewood was priceless. BEST PART OF BEING BACK: As a student, I was too young to realize how fortunate we were to have the support of the parents. This school, and all of Homewood City Schools, are so fortunate to have the parental involvement that we do. Now as a teacher, I am so appreciative of all we have thanks to our board and the parents of this community. WHAT HAS CHANGED OR NOT CHANGED: Obviously the building has changed a lot since my time as a student. It has grown as the number of students has increased over the years. What has not changed is the family atmosphere and the small town feel we have at Edgewood. I love the fact that it is a neighborhood school and hundreds of students still walk to school every day.
ANNA LAWS
Homewood Middle School Sixth-Grade Science & Social Studies Teacher 2014 HHS Graduate Years Teaching: 1 FAVORITE MEMORIES AS A STUDENT: I will never forget the Thanksgiving feast in first grade at Shades Cahaba. Dressed in Native American attire with a fox skin on my head, we reenacted the first Thanksgiving. Nor will I forget the wax museum in fourth grade where I posed as a servant to King Charles IX of France. Reflecting on those times, I am so much more appreciative of all the things our teachers did behind-the-scenes to make these events possible. FAVORITE MEMORIES AS A TEACHER: Nothing thrills me more than receiving an email, hours after school has ended for the day, detailing a current event, a topic they were researching, or something related to our class content. My students’ enthusiasm for learning is truly the best part of being a teacher. BEST PART OF BEING BACK: My philosophy of teaching
now is a mosaic of all of the influences of my past teachers, that has been in the works since kindergarten at Shades Cahaba. Mrs. Goss challenged me, Mrs. Lucas cared for me, Coach Sills encouraged me, Mr. Thorne emboldened me, Señora Parker enriched me, Mrs. Cole inspired me, and so many others added life to and empowered my vision of teaching. WHAT HAS CHANGED OR NOT CHANGED: If one thing is certain, it is that Homewood is a town of tradition. From the wax museum and annual winter festivals, to the Watermelon Scrimmage, Immigration Simulation, and Friday night jams, Homewood is still perfectly Homewood—passionate, diversified, innovative and fiercely loyal to its students.
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SCHOOLS & SPORTS
5
FIVE QUESTIONS FOR
Lindsey Ring
Edgewood Elementary Playground Donor PHOTO BY HOMEWOOD CITY SCHOOLS
Edgewood Elementary had been fundraising to replace its aging playground equipment one piece at time. And then the Ring family stepped in. Fourth-grader Kathryn Ring’s mom Lindsey had been looking for a meaningful way to donate money her father Gerald Pulliam had left her—and the playground was just the right fit. A few conversations later, plans were in motion to replace the entire playground at once. We chatted with Lindsey about her dad’s legacy, the playground itself and how fun it was to see her daughter’s classmates play on it when it opened in September. How did this all come to be? Since my dad died in October 2013, I have been wanting to make a donation somewhere that could help kids. He died right before my daughter’s fifth birthday. I threw around ideas for five years and couldn’t find anything that was solid. One day I was at Edgewood and saw that they were raising money for a playground. I saw the sign out in front of the school that said it was established 1924, and I thought, “This school has been here for 90 years plus, and this (playground) is going to be here in 20 or 30 years.” I just talked to Laura Tate the assistant principal, and they were all for it. I saw the opportunity of something that would be longstanding and that my daughter could see and be proud of—and that we could see every day. Tell us some about your dad. He used to help with fundraising for St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital in Memphis as a volunteer, so that’s why we wanted the donation to have something to do with kids. He was expected to die almost two years earlier than he did, which I think was amazing. It was 21 months and 21 days 34 November/December 2018
that he ended up living past that. We think it was his grandkids who motivated him; my nephew is the same age as my daughter. He had stage 4 esophageal cancer, and he also had a heart attack during that time. He had to wear this vest that gave electrical pulses if his heart stopped, and he was still picking up the kids with that. I have a picture where he was picking up my daughter to make a basketball hoop. He was weak and skinny and wearing that vest, and he was still doing that.
playground pieces? We found really unique items that are not found on other playgrounds. There’s one piece called a spring fling that you stand on and jump, and it moves a whole lot. Another piece is like a large rope swing and is also super popular. Two kids can get on it, and two kids can push them on it. There’s a swing where you can clip in a wheelchair too. Even the monkey bars are really cool, they are in an octagonal shape. They removed all the gravel and put a new ground covering that’s softer in case kids fall. I didn’t know there What was your role in the playground were so many options to customize it to what building process? you want. I was completely involved with every decision, and my daughter helped since she What was it like to be there for the ribbon can tell me what kids like and don’t like. She cutting? is so proud of this playground. We worked Three fourth grade classes got to play on it closely with Edgewood Principal Dr. Matt right then. I spent some time up there during Kiser and PTO President Hannah Johnson the day, and watching the kids get excited too. There’s more play equipment and more and run around was amazing. My daughter swings, and the overall amount of space for says kids will stop her in the hallway to say kids to play has increased enormously for they love it, and the anticipation had been the 800 kids in our school. building while they were building it. They loved watching the construction and the big How did y’all select the particular pieces of equipment.
&DRINK
FOOD
SAVORY + SWEET
Meet the Icing on the Cookie chef who loves family, the people of Homewood and sweets, in that order. BY ASHLEY KAPPEL PHOTOS BY MARY FEHR HomewoodLife.com 35
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Shelby Adams has a long, storied culinary history. He cut his teeth in New Orleans at Commander’s Palace, moved home to work at Hot & Hot Fish Club, Bottega and Standard Bistro, and then landed in Homewood where he opened a bustling bakery business at a favorite frosted-cookie hot spot: Icing on the Cookie. “I always wanted to have my own business,” says
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Shelby, who grew up in Mountain Brook before attending Baylor University. “I wanted to have the ability to be closed on the weekends and spend time with my family.” That’s all in reference to his wife, Katie, and three kids, 7-year-old Evy and 3-year-old twins Benton and Mabry, who are tasked with managing “quality control” at the bakery. His passion for family life drove him to expand
his cookie business to cater to more than your sweet tooth too. Outside its cookie case, the bakery offers Take It Easy Take Home Dinners with a rotating seasonal menu, perfect for the busy holiday season. “We offer chicken pot pie, butternut squash soup, Whole 30 and Paleo soup options, cassoulet and more,� Shelby notes. This staff of three, with the help of part-time holiday staff, churns out iced,
traditional and bar cookies, as well as savory menu options. While Adams loves his menu and business, the best part of working at and owning Icing on the Cookie, which opened in 2009, is working with the customers. When Adams moved back to Birmingham to be closer to family, he settled in Ross Bridge, and then looked to Homewood to open HomewoodLife.com 37
FAMILY MEMBERS VERIFIED THAT SHE ONCE TALKED NON-STOP DURING A 5-HOUR ROAD TRIP TO FLORIDA.
his business. “We thought that there was a niche in Birmingham for themed, decorated cookies,” says Adams. And Homewood had the “demographics to fit our target audience,” he continues. These days, Adams finds himself surrounded by over 400 cookie cutters. For Thanksgiving, Icing on the Cookie features frosted turkeys, pumpkins and pilgrim hats. Christmas brings out Santas, gingerbread men, stockings, ornaments, snowflakes
COOKIE CRUMBS WITH SHELBY Cookies Sold in a Day: 3,000 during December Cookie Cutters in the Shop: 400+
Pounds of Butter Used in a Week: 150 Pounds of Sugar Used in a Week: 150
CHILDREN A M A Z E U S E V E R Y D AY
Pounds of Frosting Used in a Week: 100
Most Popular Cookie Design: Baby Shower
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38 November/December 2018 Talked Non-Stop - 3.5 x 9.75 - Hwood&MtnBrookMags.indd 1
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Shelby Adams opened Icing on the Cookie on Central Avenue after working in fine dining restaurants.
HomewoodLife.com 39
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The Poppy Service ...a Veterans Day Service of Thanksgiving and Remembrance for all who served our country Sunday, Nov. 11 • 2 pm The American Village
Join us for a Veterans Day service in the Colonial Chapel at 2 p.m. followed by a wreath laying at the National Veterans Shrine. The American Village will lay a poppy wreath in honor of all veterans, and the public will be invited to lay a poppy in remembrance of a loved one. This is a free event. Gates will open at 1 p.m.
www.veteransregisterofhonor.com 40 November/December 2018
and about a dozen other options. While you can walk in during business hours to pick up an assortment of festive treats, if you want certain designs, or the coveted cheese straws, you need to order ahead. The next time you need to spruce up a party table, pick up favors, or plan teacher gifts, Icing on the Cookie might be just what you are looking for. Shelby’s staff help you personalize each treat so that you can see (and taste!) the love that goes into each cookie. While you’re there, grab yourself a casserole to go and a few treats for Santa, too. That’s one guaranteed way to end up on the Nice list.
Icing in the Cookie uses more than 400 cookie cutters.
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Happy Holidays from us all at Snap Girls 205-500-0302 240 Country Club Park • Crestline The Mercantile, 5287 hwy 280 HomewoodLife.com 41
FOOD & DRINK
5
FIVE QUESTIONS FOR
Ryan and Geri-Martha O’Hara Big Spoon Creamery Founders+Owners PHOTO BY TODD HELZER
April is an extra significant month for the O’Haras. It’s the month they married, and a year later the month they first launched their Big Spoon ice cream cart. It’s the month they started the Big Spoon truck the next year, opened a storefront in Avondale the year after that, and welcomed a baby boy in 2018. But now winter is about to become a notable time of year too when they open a new storefront in Edgewood in late December or early January. Here’s what they had to say about it. Why Homewood? And what will the location feature? Ryan: We always knew we had a large customer base in Homewood and Over the Mountain. This location will have a lot of similar elements to what we have in Avondale, but it will have a lot more seating. We will have built-in booths and tables and chairs. All the ice cream will still be produced in Avondale, but we will make the waffle cones fresh in Homewood. What will be in the menu around the holidays? Ryan: We do a Georgia Nell Pecan Pie Ice Cream. Georgia Nell was my grandmother, and she was well known around her church and community for her pies. She actually passed away last Thanksgiving, so this will the first year doing it without her. We do a BourbonEggnog and a Peppermint Stracciatella. We are about to release a Pumpkin 42 November/December 2018
Cheesecake with a new spin on it this year. Is there anything on your menu people might not know about? Geri-Martha: We offer pies and specialty cakes for holidays. We do a Caramel Apple Pie and Pumpkin Cheesecake for Thanksgiving. For Christmas we do a Georgia Nell’s Pecan Pie with ice cream, caramel sauce and chocolate sauce, and then we freeze it. We make this really beautiful Couveture hot chocolate. It’s just this great French chocolate with some Barber’s Dairy milk and a little bit of cream, and we make homemade marshmallows to go on top and we torch them. That’s really my hope, for children to taste this amazing chocolate and realize it’s better than something filled with sugar, or this is great peach sorbet because it has real peaches in it and not peach flavoring.
How did Big Spoon come to be? Ryan: We met in 2010 when we were both working at Bottega. She was a pastry chef and I was a line cook. We had this dream of opening an ice cream shop. I spent my summers at my grandmother Georgia Nell’s house. The name Big Spoon comes from those summers at my grandmother’s house when I’d always go for the biggest spoon in the drawer for my ice cream. We started Big Spoon with a glorified ice cream stand at our house. Can you talk some about your design aesthetic? Ryan: Bessie our food truck is awardwinning. She won an ADDY award a few years ago for her design we created with Telegraph. We were going for a modern version of a classic ice cream shop. There’s some throwback elements with our aprons and our shirts and bandanas, but we try to update it with modern aesthetic.
&STYLE
HOME
ROOM FOR US ALL
How the Whaley family breathed new life into a historic Tudor and made it just right for their family. BY MADOLINE MARKHAM PHOTOS BY LAUREN USTAD HomewoodLife.com 43
G
Gigi Whaley was no stranger to the grey Tudor home on the corner of Kensington and Wellington roads. Growing up on Saulter Road, she babysat for a family who lived in the house and had a friend who lived across the street. College, medical school and a child later, she walked in again with her husband, Mitchell, and was struck by the vaulted ceilings in the living room and the acre-plus lot. This was what they’d be looking for. And soon it was theirs. Their intention from the beginning was to renovate the 1929 home, and so a year after adopting their second child, Kai, from China, the family moved out temporarily and the process began. The principle name of the game was updating the space with new bathrooms and a new kitchen while maintaining its architectural integrity—a task not taken lightly by architect Richard Long. The Whaleys worked with him to replace wooded spaces in the house’s signature turrets with leaded glass that appears original to the house. Gigi and Mitchell are quick to note Richard’s talent for not just beautiful design but also practical design that
44 November/December 2018
helped them carve out space for a pantry and mudroom, along with many other details that now make their life easier. Another important aspect of the design came from Gigi’s roots too. Her father had passed away in 2016, and her mom’s house had a large yard and had a lot of stairs. All signs seemed to point to creating a mother-in-law suite for her. Richard helped them plot out a separate area from the main house connected by an enclosed breezeway that gives Gigi’s mom a bedroom, bathroom, living area and kitchenette of her own, and their kids a play room above it. After her mom moved in, they were also able to incorporate some of her furnishings into the rest of the house. Today all five family members have moved back in and are enjoying the new life breathed into the historic Tudor. Gigi in particular favors the light fixtures that accent the ceilings of each room, as well as the house’s new kitchen and den area. It’s spacious and cozy—just like the familiar vaulted living area just a few rooms over that first sold them on the house.
Connector This blue stone-lined enclosed breezeway of sorts connects the main part of the house to a mother-in-law suite with a playroom above it. Replete with an old pew from Trinity United Methodist, where the Whaleys are involved, it’s easily become one of Gigi’s favorite spots in the house.
HomewoodLife.com 45
Breakfast Nook Architect Richard Long had the idea to create a custom banquet for this space off the kitchen, which was previously an entryway they never used. They had it designed to fit around Gigi’s grandmother’s table too.
46 November/December 2018
Kitchen Gigi went with a punch of green (Sherwin Williams Secret Garden) on the island and a Japanese tile with a similar look to copper as the backsplash. On either side of the range, Alabama marble countertops and backsplash is a large cabinet space. One set of paneling covers their refrigerator and the other an appliance cabinet.
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HomewoodLife.com 47
Master Bathroom The master bathroom was tight on space, so architect Richard Long came up with the idea to put the tub—a wooden Japanese soaking tub to be specific—in the shower.
48 November/December 2018
Sitting Area Behind two camel leather chairs hangs a piece of art by Brian McGuffy, who now resides in area code 206 (Seattle) but grew up in 205. The Whaleys lived in Seattle for a few years and loved his tie between the two cities. A look above shows this space off the kitchen boasts wooden slats in the drop ceiling.
HomewoodLife.com 49
Girl’s Bathroom Gigi had seen reclaimed sinks she liked on Etsy and created the look herself for a lower price point by painting the base of a new laundry sink red. Mirrors from Ikea hang above it.
50 November/December 2018
Make the next work luncheon or family event unique and healthy! Call us for all your catering events and socials.
Screened-In Porch This spacious living area was added on by previous owners, but Gigi added wicker from Summer Classics that would both be comfortable and easy to hose down when it got dirty. Alabama does have a potent pollen season, after all.
Den Before renovations, this downstairs room was a kids’ bedroom, but now that the kids have moved their rooms upstairs, it serves as both a den and an extra bedroom. A dark green West Elm couch with a bed hidden within is accented with an Alabama pillow from Alabama Goods that was a gift from a neighbor. HomewoodLife.com 51
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Living Room It was this room that sold the Whaleys on buying their house, and most of it remained the same when they did the renovations. To freshen up the look, they reworked the built-in bookshelves to be adjustable heights and styled them with the help of friends. Alongside two chair and a halves from Restoration Hardware, they also reupholstered two sets of chairs from Gigi’s mom’s house, all in shades of blue-greys.
BEHIND THE SCENES Architect: Richard Long, Long & Long Design Construction: Trey Goldstein, Cotton Construction Inc.
Interior Design: Mary Louise Grogan, MLG Interiors Lighting & Plumbing Fixtures: Ferguson
Tile: Jonathan Lambert, Triton Stone Group Countertops: CR Stone
Cabinet Hardware: Brandino Brass
Trim: Sean Adams, 4 Mile Wood Design
French Doors & Custom Shelves: Bobby Adams, Red Mountain Building, LLC
Custom Windows: Charles Atkins Landscaping: Curb Appeal
52 November/December 2018
AT HOME
Bold Beautiful
Bedroom
Photo & Text By Jessica Clement
A bedroom is a place of retreat and relaxation, but it should also showcase your personality. A neutral headboard and bedding can provide a backdrop for a bold printed lumbar pillow and knitted wool blanket. To create visual interest, mix traditional and modern pieces, like a brass swing-arm floor lamp and butterfly prints with a modern side table and terrarium. For a bold statement, add a pop of color in a few accessories throughout the room.
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Jessica Clement is an interior designer and stylist who believes that welldesigned interiors should tell the story about the people who live there.
1. Antiqued Mirror Steel Side Table- Defining Home, $480. 2. Brass Pharmacy Floor Lamp- Defining Home, $1,050. 3. Metallic Printed Lumbar Pillow- Defining Home, $720. 4. Set of 5 Bound Books- Defining Home, $189. 5. Red Bud Vase- Defining Home, $12. 6. Cable Knit Lambswool Blanket- Ambiance, $289. 7. Framed Butterfly Prints- Ambiance, $69 each. 8. Etched Vase- Ambiance, $69. 9. Brass TerrariumAmbiance, $29.99. 10. Red Succulent- Ambiance, $12.99.
HomewoodLife.com 53
IN STYLE
COMFY MEETS
Cute
BY MADISON FREEMAN PHOTOS BY LAUREN USTAD
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1. KNOT SISTERS WHITE TOP This cozy sweater is a great staple piece to pair with a statement colored pant or skirt. Soca | $59
2. CHUNKY STATEMENT NECKLACE Dress up a basic sweater with this cream beaded piece with a gold pendant. Fab’rik | $36
3. RED VELVET SKIRT Velvet is in this season. This skirt goes well with a sweater or even a long-sleeved body suit. Soca | $149
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4. SUEDE PURSE This gold-studded pink clutch turns into a cross-body purse. Fab’rik | $54
5. SUEDE STRAIGHT BLOCK HEEL BOOT Over-the-knee boots add flare to make an outfit pop. Fab’rik | $73
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1. BLACK WOOL HAT
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Add flare to your “sweater weather” outfit with this dark hat. Ambiance | $32.99
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2. ORANGE MOCK NECK PULLOVER Mock necks are everywhere this season. This one would be perfect for a chilly game day. Soca | $195
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3. BAY SKY SUNGLASSES These big-framed sunglasses are bold and fun. Ambiance | $22.99
4. LEOPARD BE CLEAR HINGE PURSE Be prepared for game days and have your clear bags ready to be checked. Ambiance | $47.99
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5. BLACK CHLOE FLARE JEANS Fashion flashback! Bellbottoms are back. Soca | $188
6. OPEN TOE LEOPARD MULE HEEL Leopard print is back and always makes a great statement paired with solids. Fab’rik | $44
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Madison is a local fashion, home decor, travel and lifestyle blogger opening her door up for you on insidemyopendoor.com.
COOL WEATHER MUST-HAVES 1. BEADED BRACELET This bangle is simple yet elegant at the same time. Fab’rik | $24
2. DRUZY EARRINGS These gemstone-studded earrings dress up and add pizazz to any outfit. Ambiance | $22.99
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3. TRIO BRACELET Everyone is wearing wrap bracelets this season, and this set is affordable and cute. Ambiance | $22.99
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Hidden Treasures 56 November/December 2018
Through Ornaments 4 Orphans, Scott and Jamie Laslo are uncovering new ways to fight systemic poverty in Uganda. And it’s not through adoption. BY ELIZABETH STURGEON PHOTOS BY LINDSEY CULVER & CONTRIBUTED
HomewoodLife.com 57
Scott and Jamie Laslo’s first Christmas tree was an eclectic one. They married the week before Christmas and combined their ornaments they’d collected over time. “We went on our honeymoon, drove to Michigan, cut down our own Christmas tree and decorated it with ornaments from when we were kids,” Scott remembers. Today ornaments are a year-round affair for the Laslos too—part of something much bigger than what goes on their family tree. With all decorations they sell through Ornaments 4 Orphans, Scott and 58 November/December 2018
Jamie can tell you the markets, villages, faces and names behind them in areas of Africa where they have built relationships. They’re artisan-crafted ornaments, yes, but perhaps most notably they have been fighting poverty and encouraging sustainability in Ugandan communities since 2010. It’s a far cry from the back story of many other ornaments you can buy quickly and cheaply. “Christmas ornaments are a billion-dollar industry in the United States alone, and almost all of the
ornaments that are coming in are from two towns in China,” Jamie says. “The working conditions are unsafe and toxic, but we aren’t thinking about who made them. When you think about what you’re celebrating at Christmas, we should celebrate with things that provide freedom and hope.” And that’s what Scott and Jamie are seeking—freedom and hope for families and supporting struggling orphans in impoverished communities. But it isn’t about adoption. In fact, many Ugandan children classified as orphans really aren’t orphans at all, as the Laslos learned in their time in the country. “We were working with orphaned children, and over time, we realized, most of the kids have somebody,” Jamie says. Instead, most could not be cared for by their families and were given up due to deep poverty. “The aunt or uncle that dropped them off is often mom or dad,” Scott says. In Uganda, 80 percent of children in institutional orphan care have a living parent. And, in extreme cases, parents even get tricked into an agreement they did not realize meant giving up their children for adoption. Scott and Jamie, like most to first hear this reality, were shocked. As students at Covenant College in Chattanooga, they met on their first trip to Uganda as part of a development mission trip.
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Where to Find Ornaments 4 Orphans
Scott and Jamie Lalso with their children Vivian and Samuel.
The ornaments range in style, from beaded stars to cloth animals. “We thought to ourselves, what’s different, what’s unique, what would set us apart?” Scott says. “You can really turn anything into a Christmas ornament.” IN PERSON: Kanzi, located on Central Avenue next to Little Donkey ONLINE: ornaments4orphans.org
They planted a seed on this trip where they first got to know the country, the locals and each other. By their second trip the next year, Scott and Jamie were engaged, and by their next trip, Jamie was pregnant with their daughter. Now, Vivian is 10 and their 18-month-old son Samuel has not yet taken his first trip to Uganda. Struck by the desperation they witnessed since their first trips abroad, they’ve been searching for some kind of solution. Scott and Jamie first founded Pearl Ministries in 2004, a non-profit partnering with community organizations to help orphaned children in Uganda, the pearl of Africa. But they kept digging for something better, something truly fighting against this cycle of poverty. “We tried to learn along the way and be flexible, change and 60 November/December 2018
listen,” Jamie says. “The longer we did our nonprofit work, we saw the effects it was having, good and ill, (and we were) thinking, ‘There’s got to be a more dignified way to help people and change this charity culture that we’ve imposed.’” So, they looked for the root of these broken families. “We were throwing money at a problem but not really fixing anything,” Scott says. “Business can support the artisans and families in more sustainable ways.” Rather than taking children away from struggling families, the Laslos want to prevent that brokenness in the first place through employment. The couple had always loved the vibrant markets of Uganda, but now it has become the center of an answer. “We loved the craft, the beauty of the
The Laslos’ daughter Vivian first travelled to Uganda when she was 4 months old in 2009.
culture, and we loved giving people opportunities,” Jamie says. They saw that a mother can make beads or sew fabric, even while taking care of her baby at the same time. “We’re selling crafts that are handmade, and if there’s a market for that, then we can employ a lot of people. Those people who are working have dignity, working hard for what they’re earning,” Scott says. “They don’t need an organization to take care of their family anymore.” Although their Ugandan friends and partners do not celebrate the holidays by decorating trees, the Laslos found ornaments to be the a good artisan product for U.S. customers, even when explaining the custom to the artists sounds silly. “We’ve learned that everybody loves Christmas ornaments,” Jamie says. “A lot of people have the tradition of giving a new ornament every year, and in my family, it was always about something we’d done that year, or a trip we’ve taken.” Along with Ornament 4 Orphans, the Laslos also launched their fair trade store Kanzi in 2010, which carries a variety of African vendors who share their passion to support artisans and their families. Named after the Swahili word meaning “hidden treasure,” Kanzi found a place in Homewood to store products in 2014 and opened its storefront on Central Avenue in 2016, with colorful beads and fabrics to fill the space with life. “Part of our vision is to bring the hidden treasures and feel of the culture of Africa to America and its marketplace. We want you to experience a little bit of Africa,” Scott says. The soft sound of African music in the background of the store, and Vivian can
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walk there after she finishes at Creative Montessori down the street. For Scott and Jamie, it’s not about shopping fair trade as much as replacing mass-produced products with handmade, artisan goods. “It can be current and stylish, and still do good,” Jamie says, looking to the leather bags and throw pillows in their store. “You can do a little bit at a time. Some people would suggest first just switching your coffee, then maybe changing your chocolate, then buying used clothes.” 62 November/December 2018
Between Ornaments 4 Orphans, the KANZI storefront, and other plans for projects overseas, their goals will take time and commitment, the Laslos realize. “(Uganda) is a young country, and we try to look for long time solutions,” Jamie says. “We might not even see what comes from everything. We just have to trust in what work we can do.” Learn more about Scott and Jamie’s organizations at ornaments4orphans.org or kanzicraft.com.
The Laslos’ Central Avenue store, Kanzi, sells ornaments and other fair-trade items.
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64 November/December 2018
INSIDE THE HUDDLE A former quarterback, a sports reporter and a musician/producer are talking sports on air from a studio on a familiar street. Here’s a peek behind the scenes of The Jay Barker Show. BY SOLOMON CRENSHAW JR. PHOTOS BY LINDSEY CULVER
You notice the cushy white swivel chairs as you walk in to the studio at the AVX headquarters in Homewood. There are four of them in the middle of the room with a pair of white abdomens between them. The trio in the room is in a commercial break, a calm that separates insightful banter of this 2-hour sports talk show. The scene looks like three guys hanging out and talking sports in somebody’s man cave, which is essentially what The Jay Barker Show is — a former college quarterback chatting with career sports reporter Lars Anderson and producer/co-host
Kerry Adams. “OK,” Lars says, sitting up in his chair. “Where do you want to go from here?” The upcoming Alabama football game is an obvious springboard as Jay slides his headphones back in place. But the conversation can go anywhere from there. The show launched near the end of August and is still in its infancy. It airs noon-2 p.m. weekdays on 10 stations around the Southeast, with Tuscaloosa’s WDGM Tide 102.9 FM serving as the flagship. You can hear it in the Homewood area on 94.9 FM. HomewoodLife.com 65
Lars Anderson and Jay Barker talk sports on 94.9 FM in Birmingham on weekdays.
The program generally originates from a specially created studio at the AVX headquarters on 18th Street, one that will be supplanted by a new studio AVX is building. Jared Lewis, president of AVX, says the partnership was a “natural fit.” “The state-of-theart studio will highlight AVX’s audio-visual services by featuring video walls, security system, lighting control, motorized shading systems all from smart device automation,” he explains. The show takes advantage of Jay’s time on the field, Kerry’s time as a producer of other radio shows and Lars’ time in the field as a reporter for Sports Illustrated and the Bleacher Report. “If I do my prep, I feel like we’re always good,” Lars says after the final show of the week is done. “It’s like doing reporting but instead of calling people. I’m reading as much as I can and trying to get the most interesting stories.” 66 November/December 2018
Lars’ aim is to get Jay’s reaction, to give listeners a view from inside the huddle. “I like to get your reaction, as a player,” he tells Jay, “someone who knows his stuff.” The next day’s Alabama game is against Louisiana. Not the Bengal Tigers of LSU but the Ragin’ Cajuns of Lafayette. It’s a game the Crimson Tide is favored to win by more than 40 points. Jay says during the show that Nick Saban preaches that no one — players, coaches, fans — should be content, that they must not fall into the trap of being complacent. Jay says the same thing about the show. “You’ve got to keep doing the things (to) get better every day,” he says. “You try to get better guests, better topics and just push each other so you can have a successful show.” The threesome is carrying the show these days. That may change a bit in the near future, when the
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new studio AVX is building has been completed. Until then, the delay from the flagship station is too great for conversations with callers. “Our thing is we want to have great guests, great topics, things people want to sit back and listen to,” Jay says. “There are a lot of people who love that back and forth with the callers. But there’s a really large audience that loves to hear us interview people and discuss our perspective.” Jay was on the radio regularly in the Birmingham market from 2001 until February. That’s when the Opening Drive show he co-hosted with Al Del Greco, the former Auburn and NFL kicker, and Tony Kurre, was cancelled by WJOX-94.5 FM. The former Crimson Tide signal-caller was off the air for six months while serving out the remainder of his contract. In the interim, he began weighing his option for his return. It was a plan that was already forming in his mind. “Lars, Kerry and I started talking about two and a half, three years ago, saying we could do a show together,” Jay recalls. Kerry remembers getting Lars as a guest on the Opening
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Co-host Lars Anderson worked for Sports Illustrated for 20 years.
Kerry Adams brings experience in producing radio to the show.
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HOMEWOOD SHOUT-OUTS The Jay Barker Show is new to its home at Homewood’s AVX Headquarters, but the co-hosts are very familiar with the area in Vulcan’s shadow. O’Henry’s: Jay’s frequent stop from WJOX days
bartaco: Where Jay’s kids would eat every weekend
Jackson’s Bar & Bistro: Meeting spot for early plans for The Jay Barker Show
Oak Hill Bar & Grill: Where Kerry used to play guitar & Lars met his wife on a trivia night Shaia’s: Friends of Jay’s
Jinsei & Chicken Salad Chick: More friends of the show Salem’s Diner: What the co-hosts and guest Anna
Harwood discussed on the show when she was talking about her late father, former Southeastern Conference Commissioner Mike Slive.
The Trak Shack: Where Kerry bought his last pair of running shoes
Drive, especially when the co-hosts were away. “That’s how Jay and Lars realized there was a good connection there,” he says. Jay picks up the story there. “Lars would come in and we just hit it off very well,” he says. “We had a lot of chemistry. And at that time, it was more like could we do a Saturday type show or a Sunday night show or a weeknight show? A one-day-a-week thing. “When everything happened with the other show, I began to talk to Lars and Kerry — because Kerry was with me as the producer over there — and said, ‘Why don’t we kind of begin to explore putting together a show?’” Nearly a decade before, Jay had talked with Paul Finebaum about teaming with him, creating a show that paired a journalist with a player. “It kind of gives the listener the angle from a writer and from a former player,” Jay recalls. “That’s kind of the genesis of it, and how it came about.” Kerry has performed musically around town, playing guitar and singing. He admits that he’s not fond of being the star of the show, which makes his role as producer/co-host ideal. “I can kind of hide behind the mic and say things when I need to,” he says. “It fits my personality the best. If I was having to be (the one) talking all day every day, I don’t think I could do it.” The show goes to Tuscaloosa at least once a week as Lars teaches at the University of Alabama. He says the grind of traveling across the country — 20 years for Sports Illustrated and three for Bleacher Report — had begun to wear on him. It really hit home when he covered the 2016 Olympics in Rio. His wife was pregnant with twins and she was going through some hard times. “The straw that broke the camel’s back for me was when I had family in town on Monday and (editors) told me I had to be in London on Tuesday afternoon,” Lars recalls. “Most HomewoodLife.com 69
“
There are a lot of people who love that back and forth with the callers. But there’s a really large audience that loves to hear us interview people and discuss our perspective. -Jay Barker
people would jump at the chance to go to London really quick. But it just it made my skin crawl. It was literally right after that when Jay got serious about talking to me about doing this show. It just it felt right.” Jay wanted to continue his broadcasting career but had passed on opportunities to travel for ESPN Radio. He wanted to remain a part of the lives of his children. The former quarterback, who would always write Romans 8:28 with his autograph, views his show as divine providence. “And we know that all things work together for good to them that love God, to
Learn more at aroundtownpassbooks.com or contact us now via email at aroundtownpassbooks@gmail.com 70 November/December 2018
”
them who are the called according to his purpose,” the scripture reads. Jay admits he was shocked and dumbfounded when he realized his Opening Drive show had been cancelled. His wife, musician Sara Evans, reminded him that God has a plan. “There’s a purpose behind this,” she told him. As fate would have it, the first day Jay could go on the air was August 28, which coincided with his favorite Scripture – 8:28. “That’s pretty phenomenal,” he says. “That’s God saying, ‘I’ve got this covered.’”
HomewoodLife.com 71
HOLIDAY 1
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1. LUXURY DOG BED Big, plush, and comfortable – signature line of Bagel Beds has it all! Customize yours by selecting the top and bottom fabric. Removable cover for washing. 24” to 50” diameter starting at $109 Whiskers & Wags Pet Boutique, 16618 Hwy 280, Suite 100, Chelsea, AL 35043. (205) 618-9496.
2. DEAR PRUDENCE
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3. “MY LITTLE RED WAGON” ORNAMENT Christopher Radko’s “My Little Red Wagon” Ornament, which benefits Children’s of Alabama, is made in family-owned European factories that use centuries-old techniques to blow, silver, handlacquer and embellish. Available at Bromberg’s, 2800 Cahaba Rd, Birmingham (205) 871-3276.
4. EMERALD CATS EYE NECKLACE AND EARRINGS Beautiful Emerald Cats Eye Necklace and Earrings by Kendra Scott’s Fall Collection. Stop by and see out great collection of Kendra Scott Jewelry. Available at Cahaba Lily South, 5479 US-280, Suite 117, Birmingham, (205) 490-6210
5. ALL PURPOSE WOODEN SERVING BOWL $130. Available at Wallace Burke Jewelry, 1811 29th Ave S, Homewood, AL 35209, (205) 8741044.
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SPECIAL ADVERTISING 6
6. GAMEDAY SUPER SOFT SWEATSHIRTS Gameday Super Soft Sweatshirts make the perfect Christmas gift. Available for $58 at The Ditsy Daisy, 16383 US-280, Chelsea, AL 35043, (205) 678-6166.
7. SWEET GRACE LAUNDRY DETERGENT Give your garments the VIP treatment with Sweet Grace laundry detergent by Bridgewater Candle Company. We also carry room spray, auto vent, candles and many other products. Available at Celeste Heavenly Boutique, 611 Doug Baker Blvd, Suite 114, Birmingham, (205) 407-4400.
8. MAGIC CITY WOODWORKS BIRD HOUSE KITS Available for $19.95 at Alabama Gas, Light and Grill, 2828 Linden Ave, Homewood, AL 35209. (205) 870-4060.
9. MOTO LEGGING FROM ALO
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The Moto Legging from Alo is the perfect legging to move with you in the gym & paired with a sweater for your everyday life. Available at Eleven Eleven, 2411 Montevallo Rd, Mountain Brook, (205) 423-5071.
10. HOBO WALLET AND PURSE Wallet, $128, and Purse, $298, available at Gifted, 2643 Pelham PKWY, Pelham, AL 35124, (205) 6243400.
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SPECIAL ADVERTISING 11 11. SOFIA PURSES Sofia purses, genuine leather bags, Sofia is a designer out of Houston. Her cross-body bags have a removable chain and can be turned into a clutch. $135 each. Available at Hemline, 1802 29th Ave S, Homewood, AL 35209, (205) 8029252.
12. PATAGONIA NANO PUFF JACKET The Patagonia Nano Puff Jacket sold out last year, so you don’t want to miss out. Perfect for all outdoor activities! $199. Available at Alabama Outdoors, 108 Inverness Plaza, Birmingham, (205) 980-3303.
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13. SIMPLY BRIE BOWL WITH RECIPE Makes a perfect gift or hostess gift. Many styles and potters to choose from. $36-$42. Available at The Cook Store, 2841 Cahaba Rd , Mountain Brook, (205) 879 5277.
14. STUDDED SHOULDER BAG
A buttery soft studded shoulder bag from Baske California. $425. Available at Ryan Reeve, 300 Crosshaven Dr, Vestavia Hills, (205) 518-5010.
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SPECIAL ADVERTISING 16
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15. AT HOME Drinking with the Saints, $29.99. Bites on a Board, $24.99. Available at At Home, 2921 18th Street S, Homewood, 35029. (205) 879-3510.
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16. LODGE 5” MINI SKILLETS Lodge 5” Mini Skillets, $11.75. Available at Cookie Fix, 2854 18th St S, Homewood, AL 35209, (205) 582-2623.
17. ARTICLE 22 BIRTHSTONE NECKLACE
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Birthstones are a symbol of our entrance into and journey through life. We are our very own transformation stories. Article 22 is devoted to turning something negative (bombs) into something positive (jewelry). Available at Paige Albright, 2814 Petticoat Lane, Mountain Brook, (205) 877-3232.
18. FROSTED FLEECE ROBE
Relax this holiday season in this silky, sensual frosted fleece robe! One size, five colors, $85... definitely on her list! Available at Marguerite’s Conceits, 2406 Canterbury Rd, Mountain Brook Village, (205) 879-2730 .
19. UNPUBLISHED HUNTER GREEN CORDUROY SKIRT
Cute Unpublished hunter green corduroy skirt for your junior or tween. Sized small-large: $62.00. Available at Snap Girls, 240 Country Club Park , Mountain Brook, (205) 500-0302.
HomewoodLife.com 75
SPECIAL ADVERTISING 20
20. MUDPIE CHRISTMAS SHIRT $20. Available at Gifted, 2643 Pelham PKWY, Pelham, AL 35124, (205) 624-3400.
21. TIFOSI SUNGLASSES Discover Tifosi Sunglasses with interchangeable lenses for every condition and vented lenses for better air circulation to prevent fogging. Available in many styles for men and women. PharmSouth, 34 Manning Place, Birmingham, AL 35242, in the town of Mt Laurel, (205) 991-5265.
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22. AROUND TOWN PASSBOOK
Take full advantage of the growing city that is Birmingham with Around Town Passbook, your entertainment tour guide. Live local, Be Social. $30. Available at www.aroundtownpassbooks.com.
23. SPANX LEGGINGS Spanx leggings, faux leather leggings, with a control top, available in multiple styles. $98$110. Available at Hemline, 1802 29th Ave S, Homewood, AL 35209, (205) 802-9252.
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24. OASIS HOT TUBS AND SWIM SPAS
Searching for that special Christmas gift, look no further! Relax in your personal spa after a stressful day. You have earned it! Available at Oasis Hot Tubs and Swim Spas, 5511 Hwy 280, Suite #106, Birmingham, (205) 703-1840.
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25. JUDITH MARCH TRUCKER HATS
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$35. Available at Oh My Sole, 4045 Helena Rd, Helena, AL 35080, (205) 406-5602.
26. CONSIGNED DESIGN We have dozens of pieces like this necklace that should be on every girl’s wish list, $16. Connect with us on Facebook and Insta. Available at Consigned Design, 72 Fulton Springs Road, Suite A, Alabaster, AL, 205-664-7540.
27. 2’ BY 3’ YASTIKS 2” by 3” Yastiks on holiday sale for $165. Available at 18th Street Orientals, 1829 18th Street, Homewood, AL 35209, (205) 870-3838.
28. EltaMD SUNSCREENS
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EltaMD sunscreens help prevent sunburn and decrease the risk of skin cancer. EltaMD is formulated with titanium and zinc oxide for optimum sun protection. Available at Cahaba Dermatology, 2279 Valleydale Rd, Suite 100, Hoover, (205) 279-SKIN.
29. LONDON BLUE TOPAZ WITH WHITE GOLD Available for $1,295 at Anthony and Co., 2080 Valleydale Rd, Suite 6, Hoover, AL 35244, (205) 987-2224.
HomewoodLife.com 77
Homewood Chamber of Commerce C O N N E C T I O N S
Happenings Thursday, November 8 Holiday Open House Beginning at 5 p.m. in Downtown Homewood
Friday, November 16 Document Shredding & Electronics Recycling! 10 a.m. - 2 p.m. at the Homewood Public Library
Tuesday, November 20 November Membership Luncheon Sponsored by the Jimmie Hale Mission Featuring Graham Boettcher of Birmingham Museum of Art 11:30 a.m. - 1 p.m. at The Club
Saturday, November 24 Small Business Saturday
Tuesday, December 4 Downtown Homewood Christmas Parade Beginning at 6:30 p.m.
Homewood for the Holidays
The Homewood Chamber of Commerce invites you to celebrate Homewood for the Holidays, a conglomeration of Holiday events that will be sure to bring Holiday cheer to the Homewood Community! The eighteenth annual Holiday Open House will be held Thursday, November 8, 2018 beginning at 5 p.m. in Downtown Homewood. The Merchants of 18th Street and surrounding areas invite you to kick of the holiday season with extended store hours, holiday specials, refreshments and other treats. Enjoy the sounds of the season from local musicians while you stroll through the streets, hop on the Homewood for
Tuesday, December 18 December Membership Luncheon and Annual Meeting Sponsored by VIVA Health Featuring an Economic Development Panel 11:30 a.m. - 1 p.m. at The Club
7 HOLLYWOOD BOULEVARD 78 November/December 2018
the Holidays Trolley to be transported throughout the downtown area, and bring your little ones for a picture with Santa! The annual Lighting of the Star & The Downtown Homewood Christmas Parade will be held on Tuesday, December 4, 2018 at the top of the 18th Street hill in Downtown Homewood, directly in front of LAH Real Estate. Mayor Scott McBrayer will light the star at 6:30 p.m. sharp as the official beginning of the Downtown Homewood Christmas Parade! Be sure to follow the Chamber on Facebook for giveaways and updated information about Homewood for the Holidays!
Small Business Saturday Help us continue to celebrate shopping local this holiday season by joining us for Small Business Saturday on Saturday, November 24th!
HOMEWOOD, ALABAMA 35209
F i n d U s O n l i ne
Sign up for our weekly newsletter | Access our member directory Purchase Buy Local Homewood eGift Cards
Welcome To Homewood
New Member Spotlight TMJ and Sleep Solutions of Alabama
Blo Blow Dry Bar
Samford University Renovations
Wednesday, August 22
Thursday, August 30
1045 Broadway Street, Suite 109 Homewood, AL 35209 205-874-9699 www.tmjandsleepsolutions.com
American Family Care Homewood
2757 Greensprings Highway Homewood, AL 35209 205-290-0088 www.afcurgentcare.com/homewood/
Maya Mexican Restaurant Wednesday, September 5
Creative Benefit Solutions Thursday, September 6
RealtySouth Homewood
1690 Reese Street Homewood, AL 35209 205-407-4774 http://homewood.realtysouth.com
Complete Financial Solutions TMJ and Sleep Solutions of Alabama
Bright Health
Wednesday, September 27
Wednesday, September 12
1443 County Road 314 Town Creek, AL 35672 205-730-6156 www.compfs.com
Foot Specialists of Birmingham One Independence Plaza, Suite 530 Birmingham, AL 35209 205-445-0661 www.bhamfoot.com
Assistance League and PrimeTime Treasures Renovations Tuesday, October 2
Starnes Digital
Thursday, October 4
2713 Christopher Glenn
2713 19th Street South Homewood, AL 35209 205-907-4222 www.2713christopherglenn.com
Robert Reed GI Cancer Research Foundation 2713 Christopher Glenn Thursday, October 4
205 - 871 - 5631
2100A Southbridge Pkwy, Suite 445 Birmingham, AL 35209 205-907-3473 www.reedgifoundation.com
WWW.HOMEWOODCHAMBER.ORG HomewoodLife.com 79
OUT & ABOUT
BELL CENTER TAILGATE CHALLENGE
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PHOTOS BY JAMES CULVER
Tailgating season kicked off early with tents for teams all over the SEC at this event to support The Bell Center for Early Prevention Programs. 1. Leslie Harwell, Carson Kimball, Lee Foley, Blake Harwell and Ashley Kimball 2. Caleb and Denise Champion 3. Abby Alexander
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4. Natalie Pruitt, Jenn Jackson, Catie Robinson and Blair Crabtree 5. Matt and John Haughery 6. Shanna and Andrew Endara, Jared Hill and Jordan Hazelrig 7. Amy and Madison Jordan, and Lindsey and Ally Bryant 8. John, Ann Marie and Chapman Haughery
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OUT & ABOUT
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It’s the Most Wonderful Time of the Year! 6
Shop Oh My Sole for Name Brand Clothing, Jewelry, Accessories, Gifts, Candles, Monogram Items as well as Tween Clothing and Gifts! Monday-Saturday 10am to 5:30pm 4045 Helena Road, Helena, AL 35080
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Do Your Holiday Shopping with us. Complimentary Gift Wrapping + Extended Holiday Hours. Follow us on instagram or Facebook @ TheDitsyDaisy for holiday events. 16383 US-280, Chelsea, AL 35043 (205)678-6166 HomewoodLife.com 81
OUT & ABOUT
BACK TO SCHOOL BASH
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PHOTOS BY JAMES CULVER
Rides, bounce houses, food and of course a Homewood Patriot Band performance ushered in the school year at Patriot Park on Aug. 25. 1. Cub Scout Pack 386: Caleb and Nathaniel Siegal, Liam Staul, Gray Mullins, Carter Paulk with Patrick Cashio, Brandon Bridgeman, Grant Mullins. Back row: Mandy and Jonathan Williams.
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2. Shauna Neigoot, Rhonda Bryant and Dr. Ron Alyn McBeth 3. Kendell Pots and Jamie Brown 4. Amelia, Katherine, Owen, Ben and Kenny Worley 5. Rachel and Caledonia Jane Culver 6. Tiffany McIntyre, Robin Domit, Thayer McIntyre and Tyler McIntyre 7. Rita Smith, Rachel, Watson and Evelyn Buie, and Eliza Warden 8. Jordan McGee and Janae Wilburn
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OUT & ABOUT
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HOMEWOOD HIGH SCHOOL HOMECOMING ANNOUNCEMENTS
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PHOTOS BY HOMEWOOD CITY SCHOOLS
The Miss and Mr. Homewood and finalists as well as Homecoming Court and Miss and Mr. Fire Prevention were announced at the Sept. 7 Pep Rally at HHS. 1. Mr. and Miss Homewood Will Stone and Makiyah Sills
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2. HHS Homecoming Court: Makiyah Sills, Molly Kathryn Cooper, Autumn Tate, Macy Gann, Mallory Chewning, Frances O’Hare and Zoe Nichols 3. Mr. and Miss Fire Prevention Courtland Meeks and Anna Johnston 4. Mr. Fire Prevention finalists: Jack Gray, Will Stone, Courtland Meeks and Noah Gentry. Not pictured: Draper Tapscott, Erik Schablow and Keefer Boone. 5. Miss Fire Prevention finalists: Sarah Beaube, Lizzie Oliver, Molly Kathryn Cooper, Caroline Bald, Maryl Stone, Mallie Claire Alfano, Audrey Nabors, Anna Johnston and Aiya Finch. Not pictured: Rachel Ross-Davis. 6. Miss Homewood finalists: Lizzie Oliver, Audrey Nabors, Anna Johnston, Dallie Kate Darnell, Chloe Chatham, Mary Jane Rose, Makiyah Sills and Kate Sims 84 November/December 2018
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OUT & ABOUT
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WALK FOR WILLIAMS PHOTOS BY CONTRIBUTED
The Walk for Williams was held on Oct. 6 at Patriot Park in honor of Shades Cahaba first grader Eva Cordry and others in Birmingham with Williams Syndrome, a rare genetic condition Eva was diagnosed with when she was 2.5 years old. 1. Eva’s Divas with Eva Cordry
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2. Pettus and Brandi Dailey 3. Stephanie and Wes Holley
HomewoodLife.com 85
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Acceptance Loan Company. Personal Loans! Let us pay off your title loan! 224 Cahaba Valley Road, Pelham. 205663-5821 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
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. 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, Foundry. Positions In: Calera, Clanton, Pelham, Bessemer, McCalla. Walk-in applications accepted. Clanton (205)2800002. Pelham (205)444-9774. 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: Mon-Fri, 8am-4pm. Equal Opportunity Provider/Employer Boise Cascade Now Hiring for Utility Positions. Starting pay $13/hour. Must be able to pass background screen. Please apply at www.bc.com Carroll Fulmer Now Hiring Class-A CDL Drivers. Overthe-road positions available. Dry vans. No hazmat. Must have one year over-the-road. Experience and a clean MVR. Competitive pay and bonus package. Good home time. Call 800-633-9710 ext. 2 Birmingham,AL based Transportation Company looking for Class-A CDL drivers •Average 22,500/ miles-wk•Must be at least 23yrs old•Starting pay at .43/mile increase to .45 in 6-months•18months driving exp. Please Call:205-925-1977 Ext:2309 or Email: recruiting@ churchtransportation.net” City of Clanton is Hiring. Detailed job descriptions on file at City Hall. EOE. Drug screening/physical required.
NOW HIRING!!! •Director, Pharmacy Services •Director, Material Management •RNER RFT 7pm-7am •RN-ICU RFT 7pm-7am Email resume to: Blaine.Green@cvhealth.net or go to www.cvhealth.net EEO Employer M/F/D/VDrug-freeWorkplace
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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 866-273-3984
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 PT/FT Farm Equipment Operator, Lawn Maintenance and Fork Lift Driver Needed. Drug and Background Check Required. Call 205-688-0258 to set up Interview. ETS RESTORATIONS •Retaining Walls •Concrete Work •Demolition •Landscaping •Construction •Tree Removal •Tree Trimming •Bobcat Work •Hardscapes •Hauling Residential & Commercial FREE ESTIMATES!!! CALL NOW (205)209-7787 REPLACEMENT WINDOW SALE!!! Any Size Double Hung Window up to 101 UI $238 Basic Installation EcoViewWindows.com Visit Our Showrooms 836 S.Hull St. Montgomery,AL 334-676-3001 40 E.Commerce Dr. Pelham,AL 205-564-8480” $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.
MECHANICS NEEDED Evergreen Transport LLC has two immediate openings for Class B Mechanics at its terminal in Calera, AL. One for night shift and one for day shift. Call Jason at 205668-3316. Job duties include repairing, maintaining and overhauling of heavy duty fleet truck/trailers and other tasks assigned by supervisor. Now Hiring Heavy Equipment Operators and CDL Drivers Competitive pay and benefits. Preemployment drug test required Equal Employment Opportunity Employer Call: 205-298-6799 or email us at: jtate@forestryenv.com
Franklin Iron Works Now Hiring. Grinders & Laborers. Must apply in person: 146 Tommie Drive, Thorsby. MonFri. 10am-3pm. Taking applications for waitresses for growing business in Clanton Call Teresa: 334-235-0228 or call the restaurant between 4-10pm: 205-280-4949 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 1-800634-7315 or come by HTL office at 1700 Boone Blvd, Northport. EOE
NOW AVAILABLE LPN’s, RN’s 12 HOUR SHIFTS CNA’s Full-time & part-time Apply in person: Hatley Health Care 300 Medical Center Drive Clanton, AL 35045 Helping Hands Estate Sales Serving clients over 7yrs Professional & Experienced We can help sell the contents of your home! Contact for information: 256-283-5549 tbob56.wixsite.com/helpinghands Wholesale and Logistics Facility, Alabaster Administrative Assistant Great Benefits MondayFriday 7:00-4:00 Excel exp. Required Logistics background a plus Call ( 205) 912-7204 www.hibbett.com Conveyor Mechanic Great Benefits Monday-Friday 7:00AM - 4:00PM Call (205)912-7204 ww.hibbett. com 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 Service Contractor & LTC Insurance accepted. Live-in-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
MARKETPLACE 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 Welders, Welding (MIG-TIG) Sheet Metal/manufacturing helpers. Multiple positions. Paid holidays, typical shifts are 6:30am-2:30pm plus Overtime. Must be reliable. Tardiness and no-shows Will not be tolerated Call RICK: 205-644-9633 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. Now Hiring!! •CaregiversADL’s, assist with medications and some lifting 7am-3pm, 3pm-11pm, 11pm-7pm •Activity Director Part-Time •Cooks-some 12/hr shifts Call Shay McNeal 205-620-2905 Marble Valley Manor. Affordable 1 and 2 Bedroom Apartments for Elderly & Disabled. Many on-site services! 2115 Motes Rd, Sylacauga. 256-245-6500 •TDD#s: 800-548-2547(V) •800-548-2546(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 205389-4530. 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: 205-4384959 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 251470-0355 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 205339-4837 Southeastern Food Merchandisers-Pelham Day-Shift: Sunday-Friday 40+ hours/week 9:00AM until finished (varies) Motivated Selectors earning as much as $27 or more per hour after training No cap on hourly rate 100% productivity based pay structure Benefits: •Medical•Vision•Dental• Vacation•401k with company match Requirements: •Reading and math skills•Lift up to 60lbs, repetitively•Work in ambient temperatures Apply in person at: 8:30AM5:00PM Southeastern Food 201 Parker Drive Pelham,AL 35124 ofrye@ southeasternfood.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
South Haven Health & Rehab, Hoover NOWHIRING!!! •LPN’s & RN’s-All Shifts-Shift Differential -$3000 Sign on Bonus!!!! •Dietary Aide Apply in person or email: ken.holmes@nhsmgt. com 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)2436337 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. 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 Independent Distributor Opportunity Own Your Own Business Golden Flake/ Zapps and all other brands in Utz Snack Food Portfolio are offering independently owned distribution routes for sale in Calera, Alabaster, and Chelsea. Excellent earnings opportunities on established Route with tremendous growth potential. Route sales experience a plus but not required. Very flexible financing available with low down-payment Contact James Stuckey 706-888-0313 Email: jstuckey@utzsnacks. com
Become a Dental Assistant in ONLY 8 WEEKS! Please visit our website capstonedentalassisting.com or call (205)561-8118 and get your career started! 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 WARRIOR MET COAL NOW HIRING Located in Brookwood, AL Immediate need for experienced: •Underground Miners •Electricians •Maintenance Foreman •Supervisors Apply online: www.warriormetcoal.com 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.A1Appliance.com Housing Authority of the Birmingham District Hiring: Homeownership LeasePurchase 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
HomewoodLife.com 87
MY HOMEWOOD JODY BRANT
Soccer Dad+Homewood Park Board Member+ Mortgage Loan Officer
To Slow Down
Homewood Barber Shop This is my place to relax, which only happens about every 30 days for about 10 minutes. It’s a family-run business—father, daughter and son. All are excellent stylists. Everyone gets a free piece of gum for the $15 haircut. They also have the best box of toys for the little ones to be entertained with while siblings or parental units get their haircut.
Eats & Drinks
Little Donkey This place really helped accelerate the change of Central Avenue, and it’s managed and owned by another Homewood graduate Josh Gentry. My favorite drink is the Sparkling Margarita or Donkey’s Daddy, and my favorite meal is the new combo fajitas or whatever the daily special is.
Favorite Hang Out
Sam’s Super Samwiches I eat there at least five times a week. Don’t judge me. I order the egg, cheese and tomato breakfast sandwich, or for lunch you can’t beat the cheeseburger all the way or the “special dog.” Owner Sam Graphos is like a crazy uncle to all that come in. Make sure you peruse his wall of fame of local celebrities who come in, and never ask for Pepsi or fries, as this is a Coke and Golden Flake-only store.
On the Field
Homewood Soccer Park I have two teenage boys who have grown up there for last 15 years. For at least 26 weeks a year, particularly on Tuesday and Thursday nights, you can see hundreds of kids from ages 3-12 practicing and playing soccer. There is also the best small free library in Homewood at entrance of field.
Hands-Down Best Homewood Event
Christmas Parade I have been in the parade walking, driving a float and as a simple spectator—all roles have been wonderful. My tips: If you have smaller kids and want the most candy, stand in front of OLS as the parade participants first leave the library parking lot. If you want some good adult beverages and food, stand in the old curve on 18th Street and hang out at Oak Hill and O’Henry’s. Wherever you stand, you are guaranteed to see at least 100 people you know.
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Photo by Scott Butler
2279 VALLEYDALE RD #100 BIRMINGHAM