The Homewood Star | June 2012 |
www.TheHomewoodStar.com
neighborly news & entertainment for Homewood
Volume 2 | Issue 3 | June 2012
Where else, but Homewood- pg 13 Summer bridal fashion- pg 14
Stay-at-home dads -pg 9
Speaking to the true measure of a man
men, and as a member of the community. Work was just a means of contributing to the quality of life in the community, but something changed. The message of The True Measure of a Man provides hope and points the way to a path that can help men discover what really matters most in their lives. The self-published book hit the shelves late in 2009. The first and second printings sold so quickly that Simmons realized the book had potential for broader appeal. That’s when he went shopping for a publisher. He decided on Evergreen Press because the publisher offered a more timely publication date. While Simmons has a full-time person marketing the book, much of the buzz came on the heels of interviews in The Birmingham News, the Lee Davis radio talk show in Birmingham, the Steve Brown syndicated radio show in Orlando, Fla., and several other talk shows across the country. He plans to continue working with the media to raise the level of awareness about his work. Big time endorsements from The Wall Street Journal writer Fred Barnes and other heavy hitters in sports, business and religion added momentum.
By RICK WATSON With the economic tsunami in recent years, men have been looking for answers amidst the loss of jobs and other major life transitions. Where have they found them? One place is, The True Measure of a Man, a book written by Richard E. Simmons III of Homewood. Mike Fox, head baseball coach for the University of North Carolina, said the book is life changing: “It not only changed me and my priorities, but it changed the way I coach.” Simmons, who is the director of the Center for Executive Leadership (CFEL) in Homewood, explained that men today get their sense of self worth from how well they perform in the workplace. When they lose their jobs, their sense of self worth is battered, and their sense of identity becomes threatened. “Men are driven not by the desire to succeed, but by the fear of failure,” he said. “Failure is like a psychological death to most men. They fear what people will think of them.” In years past, men in this country based their self worth on relationships – as a father, a husband, a son, a friend of other
Richard E. Simmons III, author of True Measure of a Man. Photo by Madoline Markham.
See TRUE MEASURE | page 11
Mayor’s Minute
5
City news
6
El Paso Wildflower Preserve now open City’s plan for sidewalks in motion
Farmers market recipes
8
By CRAIG KLEIMEYER
June Features
Lauren Denton
10
Vacation Bible Schools
12
DS Art
15
Business Spotlight
16
Restaurant Showcase
17
Sports
19
School House
20
Calendar of Events
22
Homewood Happenings
23
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New city council measures will help maintain Homewood as Alabama’s most walkable city, as it was ranked according to Walk Score in 2011. The Homewood City Council approved a list of nine areas for sidewalk building and repairs on April 23. The city has allocated $900,000 for new sidewalks and $100,000 for sidewalk repairs in its 2011-2012 capital improvements budget. “There is money, and we want to move quickly on the sidewalk projects,” Ward 5 Representative Peter Wright said. “It’s what the residents specifically asked for.” Four city wards will have two new sidewalk projects each. Ward 5 will receive about $100,000 to improve three existing sidewalks. “We have mostly old sidewalks that need repair,” Wright said. The Homewood community came together for the first capital improvements public hearing one year ago. “[Residents] sent a very clear and loud message that they love their sidewalks and they want more of them,” Wright said. In October 2011, Fred Hawkins, a
See SIDEWALKS | page 12
You can find Daisy Fleabane (above) and Senecio (below) at the new wildflower preserve.
Mayor Scott McBrayer during the El Paso ribbon cutting. Photos courtesy of Dr. William Howell.
By CRAIG KLEIMEYER A new wildflower garden in Forest Brook subdivision is attracting butterflies and hummingbirds. “I’ve seen several species of butterflies already,” biologist and retired Samford University Professor Dr. William Howell said. “It’s working.” The preserve, located along Shades Creek, features several species of
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wildflowers as well as mature oak and pine trees. “It’s a cool get-away place right in the middle of Homewood,” Land Steward Rebekah Pine Parker said. “It’s not too far away, but you can see a great little ecosystem.”
See WILDLOWERS | page 10
We Love Homewood Hunter Payne and sons Winston and Collier
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| June 2012 |
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The Homewood Star
| June 2012 |
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| June 2012 |
The Homewood Star
Editor’s Note
Edgewood Elementary Girl Scout Troop 454 traveled to Savannah, Ga. to celebrate the 100th anniversary of Girl Scouts. Front row: Audrey Nabors, Kate Sims, Dallie Kate Darnell, Maggie Heath. Back row: Anna Merkle, Mary Walton Blomeley, Mallie Claire Alfano, Caroline Doyal, Mary Gardner, Seona Griffith, Hope Drentea-Tybor.
Staff & Friends Contributing Writers Anna Cate Little | Katie Stewart | Lauren Denton Rick Watson | Blake Rhodes | Brooke Boucek Beth Eddings | Merrick Wilson | Mary Ellen Snell
Contributing Photographers Anna Cate Little | Rick Watson
Publisher Dan Starnes
Editor Ashley Berkery
Managing Editor Madoline Markham
Creative Director Keith McCoy
It hardly seems possible that June is here and the summer solstice is just three weeks away. June is a month of contrasts – summer officially begins this month, and the longest day of the year lives here. Yet it is also the month in which the days begin, once again, getting shorter. There’s much to celebrate and enjoy in June, and ample time in which to do it. June is my favorite month and not just because this is the month of my wedding anniversary. As I reflect on the past three years of marriage, I realize how blessed I am to have my family living in Homewood where I grew up. I realize how fast time passes, and I understand why it is important to appreciate every little thing (even sleepless nights with a newborn) and cherish every moment of this summer of 2012. Summer brings back fond memories of growing up here, and now as an adult it is special to me to experience similar times with my children to help them build memories of their own. Swimming at the Homewood pool is standard procedure for every day that it doesn’t rain. Visiting the Homewood Library is a perfect alternative when it does rain. Days are fulfilled by picnics in the park, Friday flicks after dark, the simple joy of running out through the front yard when the chimes of the ice cream truck float down the street, catching lightening bugs in the backyard at dark, riding bikes in the neighborhood and hanging out outside after dinner while it’s still full daylight. There is a full schedule of things to see and do in Homewood this summer, and our June issue highlights some of those that are perfect for family fun or outings. If you are looking to spend time outdoors, the El Paso Wildflower Preserve, which we highlight on our cover, is now open for appointments along Shades Creek. The Miss Alabama Pageant takes place early this month at nearby Samford University (page 10). The West Homewood Community Exchange is now up and running at Shades
Valley Community Church, and Vacation Bible Schools are going on all over town this summer. Check out page 12 to see where you might want to send your children. The Homewood Chamber’s Merchants Committee is sponsoring a great event each month, Wine Down Thursdays, to encourage extra time for shopping in Homewood after hours. Check out page 7 to see which businesses are participating. We have also provided some fresh summer recipes to whet your appetite and please your palate (page 8). June is also the month where we honor our fathers for all they do. Anna Cate Little interviewed several Homewood dads whose unique job is staying home with their children; their stories are highlighted on page 9. I must pause here to say thanks to my dad for all he has done for me over the years. I personally know now how raising children is not the easiest job, but he has raised me to love the Lord and put the best I have in all I do. For that I thank you, Dad! And last, but certainly not least, we sadly say goodbye (or, as I like to say, “See ya later”) to one of our own writers, Anna Cate Little, who is moving to Atlanta this summer. Anna Cate has been instrumental to our team at The Homewood Star with her in-depth coverage of various topics. She is a gifted writer who will be missed dearly. Thank you, Anna Cate, for your hard work, dedication and appreciation of our beloved community and home that we all call Homewood. We wish you the best. As always, feel free to contact me at Ashley@thehomewoodstar.com with any feedback or story ideas you may have. Here’s to making the most of your summer memories in Homewood! Who knows? We might just write about them in a future edition of The Homewood Star.
Star writer wins award Writer Rick Watson won two firstplace awards in the Annual Alabama Media Professional’s communication contest in
May. One winning entry was for a feature on Homewood’s Janet Holloway’s journey across America on a bicycle last year.
Editor at Large Joe Samuel Starnes
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Contact Information: The Homewood Star #3 Office Park Circle, Suite 316 Birmingham, AL 35223 313-1780 dan@thehomewoodstar.com
Please submit all articles, information and photos to: Ashley@thehomewoodstar.com P.O. Box 530341 Birmingham, AL 35253 Legals: The Homewood Star is published monthly. Reproduction or use of editorial or graphic content without prior permission is prohibited. The Homewood Star is designed to inform the Homewood community of area school, family and community events. Information in The Homewood Star is gathered from sources considered reliable but the accuracy cannot be guaranteed. All articles/photos submitted become the property of The Homewood Star. We reserve the right to edit articles/photos as deemed necessary and are under no obligation to publish or return photos submitted. Inaccuracies or errors should be brought to the attention of the publisher at (205) 313-1780 or by email. Please recycle this paper
Meet our intern Madison Miller is a junior at the University of Alabama in Tuscaloosa majoring in journalism. She is from Birmingham and is a graduate of Spain Park High School. With her journalism degree, she would like to write stories about local communities. She is looking forward to writing for The Homewood Star this summer.
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Mayor’s Minute Dear friends and neighbors, This past week, I received two letters specifically thanking the Street and Sanitation Department for the work they do, for going “above and beyond.” After reading the second letter, I thought about just how many of these I have received recently praising all the departments in the City of Homewood. I just want you to know how much I appreciate you for taking the time to notice when things go right. One of the toughest challenges I had when I became mayor was to change the mindset of general government. We have come to expect our government to be inefficient, uncaring and mediocre at best. But it doesn’t have to be that way, and Homewood is proving it. Our employees are constantly thinking of new ways to save money and provide better service because they are taking ownership in the process. And because of the commitment and the support of the community, we have been able to complete the last three years with a budget surplus and are making a great run to finish the fourth in a row. As of this date, we are now $1.2 million ahead of where we were last year, and those kinds of results allow us to make huge improvements to our neighborhoods. Currently we are building new sidewalks and repairing many old ones; about to begin paving projects totaling nearly $300,000; and discussing expanding the Greenway, Recreation Center and Patriot Park. We continue to be blessed in
Homewood, and I’m so grateful to the many men and women who contribute each day, whether they be employees, visitors or residents who add value to our city by volunteering to serve in so many ways. In Homewood, we’re not interested in the possibilities of defeat, and that’s why we are always doing what someone else said couldn’t be done. Lots of companies have their vision, mission and value statements on the wall, but I believe it’s more important to have them in our hearts. It’s a mindset that slowly becomes a habit and eventually becomes our standard. The process can sometimes be slow and tedious, but the results are fulfilling and lead to letters and accolades as stated earlier by those who are watching and appreciative. Do we ever fail? Yes. But it’s been said that Michael Jordan missed more than 9,000 shots, lost nearly 300 games and was cut from his high school basketball team. He didn’t quit, and neither will we. I expect Homewood to shoot for the moon, and if we miss, at least we fall among the stars. Babe Ruth once said, “It’s hard to beat a team that never gives up,” and I thank you for giving me the privilege of serving with my Homewood employees who never give up. With kindest regards I remain Sincerely,
Scott McBrayer Mayor City of Homewood
| June 2012 |
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Announcements of hearings, more from City Council On June 4 at 5 p.m. at City Hall there will be a Special Called Council Meeting to appoint the new Ward 1, Place 1 representative. On June 4 at 5:15 p.m. the Public Works Committee will hear proposals from companies interested in fulfilling requirements for the City, as the City
considers withdrawing from SWMA. On June 11, there will be seven public hearings regarding “excessive growth” at properties in the community Open Board Vacancies close on June 18. For more information, please call the city clerk at 332-6107.
Tips for safe gas handling & storage By JASON HALLMAN Fire Chief John Bresnan and Fire Marshal Rusty McCombs have spent much time researching gasoline nozzle holdopen devices. Their research has led to the removal of the Homewood City Ordinance that prohibits the use of these devices on gasoline nozzles in the City of Homewood. They determined that it is much safer to use them instead of items such as a gas cap or wallet to hold the lever on the nozzle open. Gasoline is highly flammable and can be extremely dangerous if not handled or stored safely. Static electricity can cause a spark to ignite gasoline vapors. You can cause a static electricity spark if you leave the nozzle and get back in your vehicle or if you do not remove a portable gasoline container from your vehicle and place it on the ground when refilling. Following these safety tips will help protect you and your family. Fueling Vehicles ff Turn off the vehicle’s engine. ff Never smoke or operate any personal electronic devices during refueling. ff Never leave the nozzle unattended.
ff Do not get back in your vehicle while
refueling; static electricity could generate a spark. ff To avoid spills, do not overfill your tank. Portable Gasoline Containers
ff When filling a container, follow the same rules as fueling a vehicle.
ff Place the container on the ground. ff Never fill a container when it is inside
a vehicle, trailer, trunk or pickup truck bed; static electricity could cause a spark. ff Fill the container slowly to avoid a spill. ff Fill the container no more than 90 percent full to allow for expansion of vapors. ff Never smoke while transporting gasoline. ff Never transport a container in a closed area or trunk. ff Store containers in a secure, well ventilated location out of the reach of children. ff Never use gasoline to start a fire or pour it on a fire that has already been started.
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| June 2012 | The Homewood Star
Closettec
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Custom Closet Design, Laundry, Pantry, Garages and more
Homewood City Schools announces new school calendar Homewood City Schools has revised its 2012-2013 calendar due to new state legislation. The newly passed bill requires that schools start the academic year no more than two weeks before Labor Day, which is August 20 this year, and that the year end by May 24. The Board of Education approved the new calendar at its May 17 meeting.
lisareich@me.com • 205-612-5581
August 8-17 will now be faculty and staff work days. August 20 will be the first day of school for students. The following dates will be normal school dates: October 8 and 19 and February 18. December 21 will be the last day of school for the first semester. To view the full calendar, visit homewood.k12.al.us.
Homewood Police active in community, receive awards
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Homewood Deputy Chief Bob Copus and Lieutenant Ken Atkinson help raise money for the Special Olympics at the Wal-Mart in Pelham as a part of Cops on Top. During the two-day event, $10,000 was raised at that location, and $60,000 was raised state-wide.
Homewood Police Chief Jim Roberson shakes hands with Homewood fireman James Clayton Parker upon his graduation from the Jefferson County Reserve Academy on April 29. Parker is now a Homewood Reserve Officer.
Samford after Sundown offers adult education courses Registration for new sessions of Samford after Sundown classes is about to begin. The classes start at various points during the summer. Samford University created the program to meet the educational needs of adults, businesses, industries and government agencies in the Birmingham area. The list of classes allows students to satisfy their creative spirits, achieve professional goals and learn new skills. Arts and Humanities include calligraphy, drawing, introduction to paper marbling and mixed media. The Fitness and Recreation classes include yoga and golf. The program also offers Home Arts classes like beginning acoustic guitar, where you learn to write your own music; beginning knitting; interior design basics;
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cake decorating and cupcake basics. If you are thinking about traveling to Italy or Haiti in the near future, Samford after Sundown also offers language classes like Italian and Haitian Creole for aid and missionary workers. Photography classes include Photoshop basics, fine-art digital printing: paper and canvas, nighttime and low-light photography and understanding your Nikon or Canon DSLR. For additional course information and to register, visit www.samford.edu/ sundown, and select the “Course Catalog” tab at the top of the page. For more information, call 726-2739. Samford after Sundown office hours are 9 a.m.–6 p.m., Monday–Thursday and 9 a.m.–3 p.m., Friday.
Jefferson County Knucklers Kids who want to learn the game of marbles can play with friends for free with the Jefferson County Knucklers. The game of marbles teaches social interaction and behavioral skills, as well as sportsmanship. Kids ages 7 to 14 can join the Jefferson County Knucklers for some good oldfashioned fun. Homewood resident David Fisher has been taking a demonstration about marbles to area Cub Scout Meetings and hopes to take the first Alabama representative to the annual National Marbles Tournament in Wildwood, N.J. Visit the Facebook page at facebook. com/JeffersonCountyKnucklers and “like” them on Facebook to join the conversation.
Kids play marbles during We Love Homewood Day. Photo courtesy of David Fisher.
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parents. “Their hours are as valuable as everyone else’s,” said Rick Kittinger, one of four kitchen cabinet members of the WHCE. “Everyone has something to offer.” Members can also earn hours to enter into the pool by participating in community service activities events. The group enjoys social networking and getting together for potlucks and activities every other month to share a meal and stories. Kittinger encourages the community to visit www.westhomewood.com to sign up to be a member. To join, you need to provide two references, and the rest of the process is easy. Membership is not confined to those living in West Homewood. “We encourage everyone to join and feel that it is a great way to make new friends and maybe save some money at the same time,” Kittinger said. “It is good to get connected and know that someone is looking after you.”
Senior Center members tour Homewood City Hall
Members of Homewood’s Senior Center took a trip to City Hall where Chief of Staff J.J. Bischoff took them on a tour. The tour included a visit to the Homewood Fire Department’s administrative offices on the fourth floor. During the tour of the City Council chambers, Mayor McBrayer gave a brief civics lesson to describe the functions of the Council.
Third Thursday Wine Down event set for June 21 By CRAIG KLEIMEYER On June 21, participating merchants in Homewood will stay open until 7 p.m. for the second of the Third Thursday Wine Down events. The event is presented by Homewood Chamber Merchants Committee. Third Thursday Wine Down was created for shoppers who might work or have other reasons that they can’t come to the stores during the day. Refreshments are also served, and many stores will offer great specials. “We definitely did some more business. It was good, and it was fun,” said Kathy Bley, manager of Penzey’s Spices. “We got a lot of good customers that night.” Molly Green Boutique owner Brittany Hartwell said that the community can look forward to another fun night at Molly Green. The store offered hors d’oeuvres and wine for the first event and brought in live music for the second one. Hartwell said they had a pretty good
turnout in the past, but she hopes that it will grow. “There’s lots of opportunity. Homewood has so much to offer,” she said. “We just have to get the word out for the people to know about it.” Past participating merchants included A Touch of Whimsy, Alabama Goods, Alabama Outdoors, Ambiance, d’Trespa Boutique, Doree, Dorothy McDaniel’s Flower Market, Four Seasons Art & Antiques, Generation Dog, Harmony Landing, Homewood Friends and Family Chiropractic, Homewood Sporting Goods, Molly Green, Nadeau, NeedCo., O’Henry’s Coffee, Penzey’s Spices, Seasons to Celebrate, Shoefly, SoHo Retro, The Briarcliff Shop and Urban Cookhouse. So, mark your calendar for June 21’s Wine Down event and for the third Thursday of every month. For more information, visit Homewoodchamber.com or call 871-5631.
Ectetera • Ed Hardy • Ferragamo • Free People J Crew • Joe’s Jeans • Juicy • Kate Spade • Laundry • Lily Pulitzer • Louis Vuitton • Marc Jacobs • Matt & Nat • Michael Kors • Michael Stars • Moth • Nanette
To Kenyon Ross, your hour is worth anyone else’s hour. West Homewood recently launched the West Homewood Community Exchange (WHCE), a new economic bartering system. Like the West Homewood Farmer’s Market that Ross manages, the WHCE is based out of Shades Valley Community Church and partners with the group called What Is Good. Ross said it furthers the effort to be involved with good things for the community. The system involves an “hour exchange” where each member provides an hour of service, such as babysitting or painting, into a common pool and then gets a different hour of service from the pool. “You can barter with anyone,” Ross said. “It equals the playing field for anyone’s services.” The WHCE launched in February and is open to anyone ten years old and older; minors just have to be supported by their
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Bartering system encourages community relationships
| June 2012 |
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| June 2012 | The Homewood Star
Recipes fresh from the farmers market 3 cups halved and hulled strawberries 1 cup fresh lemon juice (about 6 lemons) 2 cups crushed ice
By HANNAH KLINGER I grew up in Edgewood, just a couple blocks from New York Pizza, Broadway’s and Moneer’s (long before it became Sam’s Deli) and loved walking to the library and the park, especially for Free Friday Flicks. I always wanted to have dinner outside. Although it was never a proper cookout (we didn’t own a grill), nothing tasted better than the peppers and tomatoes from our own garden. Today bringing home local farmer’s markets finds to cook for family and friends evokes the same summer evening bliss we had on our Edgewood patio.
Make a syrup by heating sugar and 1 cup water in a small saucepan over mediumlow heat until the sugar has dissolved. Let cool. Puree strawberries in a blender until smooth. Add syrup, lemon juice, ice and remaining 4 cups water. Blend until smooth. Strain lemonade through a sieve or colander to remove strawberry pulp if desired. Garnish glasses with a strawberry or lemon wedge and serve. Blueberry Limeade Yield: 8 servings
Farmer’s Market Pizzas Yield: 6 servings
Blueberries turn ordinary limeade into a seasonal beverage. Blend pre-made limeade with fresh blueberries if you don’t want to make your own.
A quick, simple pizza shows off the best of our local farmer’s markets. Find tomatoes, basil and squash at the downtown Homewood market in the SOHO parking lot or the West Homewood market at Shades Valley Community Church (160 Oxmoor Road) on Saturday mornings. 6 (6-inch) whole-wheat pita rounds 5 tablespoons olive oil, divided 6 ounces shredded mozzarella cheese, divided 1 large tomato, sliced thin 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, roughly chopped 1 medium zucchini, sliced into thin rounds 1 medium yellow squash, sliced into thin rounds 1 tablespoon fresh thyme 1. Preheat oven to 400°. 2. Brush each pita round with 2 teaspoons olive oil. Sprinkle 1/4 cup cheese on
1 cup sugar 5 cups water, divided 1 cup blueberries 2/3 cup fresh lime juice (about 6 limes) 2 cups crushed ice Pita pizzas made with veggies and herbs fresh from a Saturday market pair well with a fruity glass of Strawberry Lemonade or Blueberry Limeade. Photo by Madoline Markham.
each pita. Top three pitas with sliced tomatoes and basil; top remaining three pitas with zucchini, yellow squash and thyme. Drizzle remaining tablespoon olive oil over tomatoes and squash. Sprinkle remaining cheese evenly over pitas. 3. Bake on a sheet pan at 400° for 6-8 minutes or until cheese has melted and edges are browned.
Strawberry Lemonade Yield: 8 servings This twist on classic lemonade makes a refreshing drink on a hot day, and comes in a fun, vibrant pink color. You can also blend bottled lemonade with strawberries and ice for a short cut.
Make a syrup by heating sugar, 1 cup water, and blueberries in a small saucepan over medium-low heat until sugar has dissolved. Let cool. Add syrup with berries, lime juice, ice, and remaining 4 cups water to blender; blend until smooth. Garnish glasses with fresh blueberries or lime wedge and serve. Homewood native Hannah Klinger is a culinary student, recipe developer and food writer. She blogs at onebowlonespoon. wordpress.com.
1 cup sugar 5 cups water, divided
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The Homewood Star
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| June 2012 |
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Job title: Dad
Alison and Randall Griggs with their three sons, Jackson, Samuel and Peter. Photo by Anna Cate Little. Richard and Bette Bradley with their sons Eli and Sam. Photo courtesy of the Bradley family.
By ANNA CATE LITTLE As we salute all the hard working dads out there this Father’s Day, we especially remember those that forgo the paycheck and stay at home with the kids. It takes a special kind of man to handle laundry, meals and carpool, not to mention the mental and emotional demands that all children create. While at-home parenting may be tough, at least the dress code is casual and the bosses are much cuter. Here are three Homewood stay-at-home dads who honestly and candidly give us a taste of their daily daddy duties. Meet the dads Richard Bradley is married to Bette and the dad of Sam (2.5) and Eli (8 weeks). Randall Griggs is married to Alison and the dad of Jackson (12), Samuel (10) and Peter (8). Jeremy Bernstein is married to Julia and the dad of Nate (6) and Charlie (3).
What is the best part and the hardest part of being a stay-at-home dad? Richard: Of course, getting to watch your children grow and being a big part of that process is the best part. Two years ago, when my wife and I decided on this arrangement, I was worried I wouldn’t find being a stay-at-home dad as fulfilling as having a successful career. After getting into a routine, I can’t really imagine doing anything else that would be as fulfilling as supporting my family in this role. But, being a stay-at-home parent can be extremely isolating. Luckily, within a year I found a great group of moms that have welcomed me with overwhelming acceptance. We have regular playgroups at each other’s houses, go to McWane and the Zoo together, hit up Chick-fil-a, etc. Randall: The best part is being involved with the kids in all their activities and getting to know other kids. The hardest part is keeping my patience with my three boys and having to split time amongst all
three of their activities. Jeremy: For me, the best part is that I get to be around my boys. Conversely, that can be the hardest part as well; there really are no days off. What do you miss most/least about the working world? Richard: I miss the camaraderie of working with a group of people towards a common goal. The working world is full of instant gratification. Parenting is a long-term process where instant achievement is only measured by the loads of laundry you get done a day or how many errands you get accomplished while your Jeremy and Julia Bernstein with their sons Nate and child is at preschool. However, Charlie. Photo by Anna Cate Little. the working world can sometimes seem Nothing. What do I miss the least? Adults repetitive. Although my family definitely that act worse than my kids. Jeremy: Before staying at home has a routine, you never know what the day will bring you. Randall: What do I miss the most? See DAD | page 15
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| June 2012 |
The Homewood Star
Ordinary Days Learning from a toddler…and her daddy By Lauren Denton
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this the first day Matt went back to work after Kate was born. As soon as he walked back in the door at 5:30 p.m., I realized two things: 1) He is vitally important to my sanity, and 2) Without him, parenting, and life in general, would be a lot harder and much less fun. As soon as he gets home, the happiness and contentment level in the house goes up several notches. He swoops in, full of smiles and kisses, and regardless of how ornery the afternoon has been for us, Kate and I both end up smiling. When I see him make Kate laugh and forget how mad she is that I just turned off the TV, even if she’s been on the verge of a toddler breakdown all afternoon, I tell myself it’s because he hasn’t been with her all day, that he’s fresh and ready to jump into our crazy evenings. But in reality, I think it’s because he’s just blessed with the ability to be patient when I can be easily irritated, calm when I can be frantic. I learn a lot from Kate, but I also learn just as much by watching how Matt parents her. Many people probably think dads always learn from the moms and take their cues from them, and I’m sure that’s true to a point. But in our family, I’m constantly learning from him. I’m thankful to have married someone brimming with patience and generosity—two qualities that go a long way in making a home a happy one. He’s exactly what we two (soon to be three) girls need at the end of the day. Happy Fathers Day to all the Homewood dads, and especially to Kate’s dada! Lauren can be reached at LaurenKDenton@ gmail.com.
Miss Alabama Pageant at Samford By CRAIG KLEIMEYER On June 6-9, the Miss Alabama Pageant will take place at Samford University in the Leslie Stephen Wright Center. The first three nights will be the preliminary pageant evenings. Each night, three groups of contestants will rotate. The final night, June 9, the top ten contestants will be announced and will compete for the crown. Crowning will take place at the end of the night.
The pageant will begin at 7:30 p.m. each night. Tickets for the first three nights are $32 for the front orchestra, $27 for the back orchestra, $27 for the grand tier arms and grand tier, and $24 for the balcony. For the finals, tickets are $48 for the front orchestra, $40 for the back orchestra, $40 for the grand tier and $34 for the balcony. Tickets can be purchased by calling 8716276 or visiting www.missalabama.com.
WILDFLOWERS
CONTINUED from page 1
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These days, to say I’m learning a lot from my toddler would be a vast understatement. If I thought I learned a lot about myself, my patience levels, and my dependence on God’s grace to get me through the day when she was an infant, I hadn’t even considered what toddler-hood would do to me! Don’t get me wrong—I think Kate is the sweetest two-year-old to ever walk the planet—but boy, does she know how to push my buttons! I recently checked out several books from the library about how to best handle toddlers in all their hilarious, headstrong, disobedient ways. I’ve received some good advice, but I’m also learning that each toddler is so different, you basically just have to wing your way through it with your particular child. Perhaps the best advice I received from a friend was, “Remember that you are the Big Cheese.” Similarly, another friend told me she says to her child, “Is Maggie in charge? No. Is Mama in charge? Yes!” Every time I try that with Kate, she gives a hearty “Yes!” when I ask if she’s in charge. Apparently, no one strategy works with all kids. I’m learning the days go better when I constantly remind myself that Kate is taking in every little thing I say and do. If I show my frustration too much (or worse, my anger), she’ll see that that’s how you should react to negative situations. As a consequence, my internal prayer life is generally along the lines of, “Lord, give me patience.” I repeat it until I feel calmer, then I can carry on and bear (mostly) the bouts of “Me!” “Mine!” and “No!” Another thing I’ve learned is how crucial my husband, Matt, is to the success of my parenting skills. I actually learned
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The preserve is open for appointments only right now, but visitors can reserve a time with Freshwater Land Trust and get a key to the preserve and a map. Pine said that the preserve is a great place to take school groups, business groups and scouts. The El Paso Corporation gave $35,000 to the Freshwater Land Trust to transform the land into a preserve, which is where it got its name. They purchased the 51acre property in 2001, and Father Nature Landscapes designed and built the preserve’s trail, kiosk and bridges. Howell lives a block away from the entrance and appreciates the preserve for its beauty. “It’s pretty vital to me being a biologist and a naturalist,” he said. “I like to look in nature at what’s changing in the seasons as they come and go. It’s a biologically unique place for this area of Birmingham.” Howell, who serves on the board for the Freshwater Land Trust, said the preserve has a lot of plant species that he has never seen in the springtime. “It’s got a lot of unique plants you don’t find normally,” he said. “There’s trout lily, all kinds of ‘shrooms and fungi, and a lot more.”
Howell led a guided wildflower hike on opening day with 15 to 20 others. The trail is over a mile long and made up of crushed red rock. “There are wide, gravel paths running through the area and two bridges across the two creeks for hikers,” he said. “You don’t have to be afraid of snakes or anything. You can see them.” Howell said the preserve is a great place for a time of self-reflection and for a chance to be with nature and creation. “After you get down in the preserve and move over the hill, the noise begins to subside and you can hear the birds chirping and sounds of the woods,” he said. “It’s a chance to escape from the hustle and bustle of modern-day life.” In the future, the Freshwater Land Trust plans to connect the property to extend along the chief Shades Creek Greenway. They also plan to finish setting up the outdoor classroom for groups and classes to visit. For more information and to schedule a visit to the preserve, call the Freshwater Land Trust office at 417-2777 or visit www. freshwaterlandtrust.org.
The Homewood Star
www.TheHomewoodStar.com
| June 2012 |
11
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Tourism director to speak at Homewood Chamber luncheon The Homewood Chamber of Commerce will host its monthly luncheon at The Club on June 19. Alabama Tourism Director Lee Sentell will speak; he has been involved with
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tourism promotion for the past 30 years. The event runs 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. For more information or to register, visit homewoodchamber.com.
TRUE MEASURE
CONTINUED from page 1 Simmons speaks frequently to various civic organizations and churches, which gives him the opportunity to sell books. He also speaks to the management teams of large corporations like Brasfield and Gorrie and Altec. “The message hit home with a lot of men,” said Simmons. “Some guys buy the book and are so moved by the message that they buy copies for their friends who are going through hard times.” Simmons began asking himself questions about his own life several years ago, and the quest for answers provided some of the insights captured in his book. He was a successful insurance executive early in his career and married for the first time at 41. Eighteen months later, he and his wife Holly welcomed Dixon, the first of three children (Dorothy Pate and Will followed). He was traveling a lot, which caused complications in his life. Simmons realized things needed to change. He decided to leave the insurance industry and start CFEL in 2002. The organization coaches men through professional career counseling and Bible study. The mission of CFEL is to provide guidance and counseling to men, especially
during that time in a man’s life when things haven’t turned out the way he might have planned. Some people call this a midlife crisis, but Simmons feels a better description is “spiritual crisis.” Simmons and the team at CFEL started doing programs for local professionals at the Birmingham Country Club several times a year. One of the presentations contained the essence of the message in The True Measure of a Man and a friend suggested that Simmons write a book based on the presentation. Simmons said one of his goals is to get the book reviewed by The Wall Street Journal. He feels the message of The True Measure of a Man has the potential to speak into the lives of executives and businessmen across the country. What’s next for Simmons? “I spent the first 30 years of my working life focusing on success,” he said. “I want to spend the rest of my life trying to make a difference.” You can purchase The True Measure of a Man at Barnes & Noble, Books a Million, Little Professor, Family Christian Stores, Church of the Highlands Bookstore, Briarwood Bookstore and all the Daily Cup Coffee stores, as well as online from Amazon.com.
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| June 2012 | The Homewood Star
Vacation Bible School round-up By CRAIG KLEIMEYER Dawson Memorial Baptist Church KidLife Week 2012 June 4-8, 9 a.m.-noon, for ages 4K to sixth grade. For more information, go to www. dawsonchurch.org. Edgewood Presbyterian Church Shake It Up Sunday mornings June 3-August 19, 10:4511:45 a.m., for third to sixth grade. For more information, call 871-4302. First Baptist Church of Birmingham Something from Nothing July 16-20, 9 a.m.-12 p.m., ages 5K to sixth grade. An unbelievable, handson discovery of the wonders of God’s creation. For more information, call 8703888 or go to FbcBhm.org. Oakmont United Methodist Church Mega Sports Camp July 27, 5:30-8:30 p.m.; July 28, 9 a.m.-5:30 p.m.; and July 29, 9:30 a.m.-noon, kids ages 3K to fifth grade. For more information, call 942-4622 or email oakmtumc@ bellsouth.net
DEBORAH A. SEMA, D.M.D., M.S. SPECIALIST IN ORTHODONTICS
205-942-2270 www.ovortho.com
Braces for All Ages
Our Lady of Sorrows Catholic Church Everything Is Possible with God June 11-15, 9 a.m.-noon, for ages 4K to fourth grade. For more information, go to www.ourladyofsorrowspsr.com or call 871-1431.
Church Lutheridge + Lutherock Ministries, Inc. Summer Day Camp 2012 July 16-19, 9 a.m.-4 p.m., and, July 20, 9 a.m.-noon, for ages 4K to fourth grade. For more information, call 871-3512. Trinity United Methodist Church Cokesbury’s Operation Overboard: Dare to Go Deep with God July 16-19, 9 a.m.-noon, for ages 3K to second grade. For more information, go to www.trinitybirmingham.com/kids. Other church summer programs: All Saints Episcopal Church Preschool Summer Program June 4-22 and July 9-27, 9 a.m.-1 p.m., for ages 12 months to 6 years. The options for registration are Monday – Friday; Monday, Wednesday and Friday; or Tuesday and Thursday. Registration fees are $125 for first child and $100 for siblings. Tuition for the six week program is as follows: $480 5 days, $330 – 3 days or $250 -2 days. For more information, call 879-8651. Trinity United Methodist Church Preschool Playcation July 24-26, 9 a.m.-noon, for ages 4K to 5K. Venture July 30-August 1, 9 a.m.-noon, for third to fifth grade. For more information, go to www.trinitybirmingham.com/kids.
Shades Valley Evangelical Lutheran
SIDEWALKS
CONTINUED from page 1 representative for Ward 2, approached the Regional Planning Commission of Birmingham (RPC) with former City Council member Tony Smith, and they purchased a $100,000 federal grant from RPC to study the sidewalks. “We wanted an outside firm to come in for an outside opinion,” Hawkins said. “The staff looked at all of the sidewalks and determined where to get the most for the money, with safety as the first priority. We want to spend little money and get a lot of results.” The RPC recommended about 50 areas for sidewalks, ranked highest to medium priority, and the City Council narrowed it to 12. Three additional areas will be considered if funding becomes available after the other projects. For the projects close to schools, the City Council is working to see if the federal government will assist with some of the funding. “A lot of work is already funded with our money, but we may try to stretch the money out even further,” Wright said. “It’s an ongoing process to find out.” Hawkins and Smith want to create a program where the list extends year after year, and he hopes the money is available. This month the 2012-2013 capital improvements budget comes out and
might include more money for next year. “We will see if money is available,” he said. “We’re going to try to keep it going.” Hawkins and the rest of the council hope to have a much longer list long-term, in order to get all of the sidewalks in better shape. “Ten years from now, it will be really nice,” he said. “But we have to attack it every year.” If the city has money left over, the City Council can make another list for this year and can do more than they have already planned. Ultimately, Hawkins said they want to please the community. “We heard what they asked for, and we’re trying to deliver,” he said. “It’s going to take a long-term approach.” Homewood City Council will notify the public if there will be any potential safety concerns, but the construction should not cause much of a problem with traffic, according to Hawkins. If a sidewalk in front of your house is being worked on, any inconvenience should not last long. Hawkins said construction should hopefully begin soon. “We’re still working out details on timing,” he said, “but we hope to get construction started this summer.”
Locations for New/Improved Sidewalks Projects ff Palmetto Street from Woodland Drive to West Linwood Drive ff Ridge Road from Oxmoor Road to Roseland Drive ff Roseland Drive from Ridge Road to the end of existing sidewalks near East Glenwood Drive ff Stuart Street from Peerless Avenue to St. Charles Street ff Oxmoor Road from Oakmoor Drive to Northmoor Lane ff Venetian Way from Oak Grove Road to Park Side Circle ff Columbiana Road from Carr Avenue to Oxmoor Road ff Manhattan Street from Dale Avenue to Clermont Drive ff Columbiana Road from Green Springs Highway to end of existing sidewalk east of Crest Avenue ff Rumson Road from Shades Creek Parkway to Windsor Drive
If funding is available, these alternates will get the next consideration: ff Mayfair Road from Ridge Road to Overton Park ff Huntingdon Road from Roxbury Road to US 31 ff Saulter Road from Broadway Street to US 31
The Homewood Star
www.TheHomewoodStar.com
| June 2012 |
Where else, but Homewood
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By ANNA CATE LITTLE
By the time you read this, I’ll be gone… in Georgia, surrounded by boxes, with my face in my hands. My husband would call that dramatic, but dramatic doesn’t begin to explain the way I feel about leaving home, sweet, Homewood. Six years ago, I moved to Homewood, a newlywed. Three years ago, Matt and I brought home our precious daughter, Caroline, from Brookwood Medical Center to a warm reception of bows and signs from our neighbors. Speaking of neighbors, that’s where I’ll begin. Where else can you walk out of your front door and know there’s an instant social hour awaiting you, complete with frolicking kids and great adult conversation? Our street, Shades Park Drive, was a treasure. Our neighbors were the kind who come running when houses get struck by lightening or kids fall off bikes. I have to pay special homage to the Griggs family: Alison insisted on spending the night during Caroline’s infancy to handle feedings so I could sleep. Randy, a stay-at-home dad, always kept an eye out for me and my house, as my husband was often traveling on business. Their kids, Jackson, Sam and Pete, doted on Caroline, teaching her how to kick a soccer ball and swing like a big kid. Where else can you walk to two parks, a library, not to mention countless of the city’s best shops and restaurants, all within blocks of your house? Where else can you drive a half mile to Early Arts, Caroline’s fantastic preschool, and then hang a left and be at your gym, Studio Fitness, where Haley and Leslie tirelessly encouraged me to be a healthier, happier version of myself? Where else could we have started a business from the ground up (Icing on the Cookie) and left it in the hands of a gracious
The Homewood Star contributor Anna Cate Little with her husband, Matt, and daughter, Caroline.
community and good friends, Katie and Shelby Adams? Where will we find another Twin Construction? William and David and their crew renovated our house, built our guest house, constructed our business and became our friends along the way. Where else can I sit and watch the most adorable tutu-clad two-year-olds dance around to a live pianist? The Children’s Dance Foundation is yet another Homewood gift. Where else can I plop Caroline in her BOB and walk to each of her best friends’ houses within minutes? And just what will our lives be like without Emmett, Kate L., Kate D., Anna, Sydney, Anderson, Noah and their mommies, among others? Where else can we visit, within ten minutes, a superb zoo, a gorgeous botanical garden and a fun-filled science center? And, speaking of over-the-mountain,
where, oh where, will we find another Red Mountain Church? Our church has been our haven, our family, a place where God’s grace and deep friendships have collided in a way that allowed us to celebrate the most joyous highs and survive the most devastating lows. Where will we find a community of believers who like to drink beer as much as we do? Our counselor, Gordon Bals, who married us and has humbly shepherded us over the years, lives in Homewood with his family. Our quirky, funny, but most importantly, loving pastor, Tom Cannon, also lives in Homewood with his family. Caroline’s godfather, Griff Israel, whose family has shared with us many meals, trips to Seagrove Beach and seedy visits to Starz Karaoke, lives in Homewood as well. Where else can I sit on my back porch and have a perfect view of a giant iron statue with a bare butt, and feel an odd
sense of pride at that? Where else would our kid go around telling everyone that “the elephant says, ‘Roll Tide!’” when she should be yelling “Go Dawgs!”? And where else will I find a gig like the one I’ve had here at The Homewood Star? Writing about the people and places in my own community has been a blast and a blessing. And I’m so proud and honored to have been a part of the inaugural issue and watched it grow for over a year now. There really is no place like Homewood. Believe me, I’ve looked. And while I know God has placed our family on a new path, His path, I still leave with a heavy heart. But I am so thankful for the time we’ve had here, and the friends we’ve made. For those of you who get to remain in this lovely place, enjoy and take care of it. It’s the best placed I’ve ever lived.
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| June 2012 |
The Homewood Star
Fashion Spotlight By BLAKE RHODES
Summer bridal fashion ‘Tis the season of weddings! I am a bridesmaid in three weddings this year, which inspired me to visit the “Bridal Block” of Homewood. If given the task of picking out wedding gowns and bridesmaids dresses to reflect each of my brides’ personalities, I would a) be ecstatic as I love to pick out clothes for people and b) report back to the them the list of beautiful styles. A big thank you to the kind people of Bridal Bliss and Bridesmaids Inc. for allowing my model friend and I to play in their lovely gowns!
Bombshell Bride in the Big Easy: Silk Organdy by Haute Couture Collection, $1,147
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For the Vegas style: sassy sequin champagne dress by Bill Levkoff, $148
For flair: Fiesta halter ruffle dress by Alfred Sung, $138
For fun: Fushia azalea chiffon one-shoulder ruffle dress by Jim Helm Occasions, $208
Beach Bride: Ella Rose (Exclusive to Bridal Bliss), $512; Flower Garden Beach Comb, $140
S af e 1s t t y i s Con our ce r n!
Birmingham’s Largest Indoor Children’s Facility! Birthday Parties! • Indoor Go-Karts Rock Climbing • Arcade • Party Rooms • Indoor Inflatables Snack Bar • Parent’s Lounge with Big Screen TV & Recliners!
For formal: Frosting Strapless in luminescent taffeta by Wtoo, $162
Romantic & Elegant Homewood Bride (and my personal favorite): One-shoulder, fitted dress by Allure Bridal Collection, new for 2012-2013
Red Balloon Sale Saturday June 23rd! antiques, furniture, artwork, gifts, children’s items, custom nursery bedding, area rugs, jewelry, home accessories, lamps, monogramming, upholstery service, custom slip covers, and so much more!!!
Beat the heat this summer! Come Play at i jump 280 Our New Website: www.ijump280.com Starting June 4th our hours are: Monday-Thursday 10am - 7pm • Friday & Saturday 10am - 9pm Sunday 12pm - 6pm
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Book a Birthday Party before August 30th and receive $25 dollars toward your total party!
930 Oxmoor Road www.homewoodantiques.com (205)414-9945
The Homewood Star | June 2012 |
www.TheHomewoodStar.com
15
The pun artist HOMEWOOD
•
ALABAMA
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www.salemsdiner.com Home of the Tilapia Greek Salad Homewood artist Don Stewart with his Uncommon Valor print of the history of the Marine Corps. Photo by Rick Watson.
By RICK WATSON Don Stewart’s mother died unexpectedly when he was five years old, and it was then he knew he would become a doctor. But it wasn’t until the Homewood resident had completed medical school and was training as a surgeon that he realized practicing medicine did not make him happy—drawing did. So he walked out in the middle of his rounds. That was 25 years ago, and he’s never regretted walking away. He had no idea how he would support himself drawing pictures with a ballpoint pen, but he knew he loved the work and believed he’d find a way. And he did. Trying to categorize Stewart’s art is difficult. “I draw funny pictures that are made of puns that make people smile,” he said. “My job is to increase the endorphin levels of everyone that sees my pictures.” An example is a golf bag made up of a set of clubs (playing cards that are all clubs), shooting iron (a pistol), trap (rat trap), driver (a hammer) and it’s all carried by a caddie (a Cadillac). The longer you look at the drawings, the more puns you see. It took Stewart 15 years of drawing pictures to pay off his student loans, but he doesn’t feel bad. He spoke with a retired pediatrician recently who said it took him 17 years working as a physician to pay off his student loans. Stewart was interested in all things creative when he was younger. At Birmingham-Southern College, he talked to his counselor about taking a drawing class. The counselor balked because he feared it would hurt Stewart’s chances of getting into medical school. But Stewart persisted and did so well in Drawing 101 that they allowed him to take two more classes. For the final project in his last class, he had to make a big picture
out of smaller pictures. “For the first time in my life, both sides of my brain woke up at the same time,” he said. During medical school at UAB, Stewart quickly learned there was not a lot of time for art. “Ideas kept dancing around in my head, but they weren’t welcomed,” he said. “The OR (operating room) is a tough room to play.” Through med school and his residency, what kept Stewart alive was drawing at home, and despite his father’s advice, he quit by the end of his first year of residency. He said he used the same organization and research skills he’d learned in medical school on the pictures he draws. Stewart’s wife, Sue Ellen, jokes that he has a masters degree in every piece he does. Stewart gets his ideas for his work from things he’s read or learned in school. The challenge is putting those things down in new and interesting ways. One of Stewart’s most famous prints is the history of the Marine Corps entitled Uncommon Valor, which took a year and a half to research and draw. Each of 375 small images depicts a piece of Marine Corps history from 1775 through present day. When all these smaller images put together, the print looks like the iconic WWII photograph of Marines raising the American flag at Iwo Jima. Half of the profits from the sale of Uncommon Valor prints go to benefit the Marine Corps Wounded Warriors fund. The artist also creates Christmas ornaments for Homewood. The design is usually a historic building or some other point of interest in the city. The 2011 ornament is available at DS Art Studio. Stewart sells his art at DS Art Studio on Crescent Avenue in Homewood, at art shows and online at www.DSArt.com.
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CONTINUED from page 8 I worked in recruiting, which I really enjoyed, and often I miss the competition it brought. However, I don’t miss the day-to-day dealings of office life and the challenges it brought. What is a common misconception about your job as a stay-at-home dad? Richard: Many people believe that being a stay-at-home dad is not a choice. They imagine that we are having trouble finding a job or we are just plain lazy. Two years ago, when my wife and I completed graduate school, we made a choice that this was the dynamic that was going to be best for our family at the time. Nothing was permanent, and we both agreed to be honest if we ever felt uncomfortable with the arrangement. She is currently on maternity leave, and it has been wonderful with both of us being able to be at home for the first few months of Eli’s life. Randall: The most common misconception is that there is time every
day for a nap. Jeremy: I can’t say any big misconception comes to mind, although I often joke that stay-at-home dads are often forgotten about. Everything from websites to playgroups are geared toward stay-athome moms. What is your favorite thing to do without your kids? In other words, how do you unwind after a day of parenting? Richard: I am really into discovering new music and reading, so that helps me unwind. Plus, trash TV. Randall: The day doesn’t end until all the sports are done for the night, but I enjoy yard work during the day while the kids are at school and sitting on the patio at night with Alison, just relaxing. Jeremy: I’ve gotten really into cooking. It started as a hobby, but now I really look forward to it; for me it’s a great way to unwind at the end of the day. Plus, Nate has become a more adventurous eater.
Sixteen years of experience helping clients with Divorce Custody Visitation Child Support Paternity Alimony Adoptions Appeals Wills and Trusts No representation is made that the quality of legal services to be performed is greater than the quality of legal services performed by other lawyers.
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16
| June 2012 | Business Spotlight
Business Spotlight 2824 Central Avenue 978-8900
Brandino Brass
|
By CRAIG KLEIMEYER
www.brandinobrass.com Monday-Friday, 8 a.m.-5 p.m. Brandino Brass doesn’t have their own brand, but the 63-year-old business has become so synonymous with hardware in Birmingham that people come into the store requesting it. Tony Brandino, who passed away in May at age 96, started the business in 1948. “He loved to sell and take care of people, and he treated all of his employees and customers like family,” said Tony’s grandson, Eric. Tony, an avid University of Alabama fan who attended 500 consecutive football games, worked closely with Birmingham’s architects and designers as well as generations of homeowners. The store still sees customers come in whose parents and grandparents worked with Tony over the years. “We practice what he did everyday,” said Eric. “He was so passionate.” A vibrant array of brasses, bronzes and silvers lines the walls of the Brandino Brass showroom. The room overflows with door hardware, cabinetry hardware, kitchen and bath accessories and light fixtures. And, if that’s not enough, business plans to expand its shop in the coming months to include more lighting and smaller items. “It will be a more functional business,” said Owner Buster Brandino, Tony’s son and Eric’s father. “We will now have almost double the space. It’s time to expand.” After Tony retired, Buster and Eric reestablished Brandino Brass in Birmingham in 2009. They first opened in Hoover but moved to Homewood a few months later. “We wanted to be in Homewood. Tony
Eric Brandino and his dad, Buster, re-established their family business, Brandino Brass, in Homewood in 2009. Photo by Craig Kleimeyer.
always liked this area, and it was good for retail,” Eric said. Buster said he knew the space was too small, but the business needed time to grow. “I was very leery about it because of the economic situation.” The father and son both said they wanted to continue with Tony’s business mindset. “We followed through with his expertise,” Buster said. “We started small, but we did everything to the best of our ability.” The father-son relationship has added a fun aspect to the job, Buster said. “Working with Eric has been challenging and a lot of fun, but very rewarding.” Buster and Eric were not sure how everything would play out, but marketing and targeting a new crowd have them
ready to expand. “I think the most gratifying thing when we re-opened was that people still recognized us. The name was still good in the marketplace,” Buster said. “The 25 to 35-year-old crew really didn’t know about us, which was a good thing, too.” Buster said he believes their full service business and variety of prices and quality is better than big box companies like Home Depot and Lowe’s. They take care of everything from a starter home to someone with an architect, a designer, a builder and more. Ann Best, an interior designer with Henry Sprott Long & Associates, has worked with Brandino Brass on projects. “They are knowledgeable salespeople,” Best said. “It’s a good place to get high-end, quality hardware.”
The Brandinos have made connections with everyone in the industry over the years. Buster said that when it comes to business, customer satisfaction is his number one goal. He said Brandino Brass also focuses on quality of work and quality of service. George Israel with Israel & Associates, P.C. Architects has always been impressed by the expertise and service that Brandino Brass provides, and their location is perfect. “It’s our go-to hardware shop,” Israel said. “It’s right down the street from our practice, and they have many choices of brands.” Brandino Brass donates to the Alzheimer’s Association and the Greater Birmingham Humane Society, as well as to school auctions and other events.
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Restaurant Showcase
www.TheHomewoodStar.com
Restaurant Showcase
| June 2012 |
Michael’s Restaurant |
17
By BETH EDDINGS
1903 29th Avenue South 871-9525 eatatmichaels.com Monday-Thursday, 11 a.m.-10 p.m. Friday-Saturday, 11 a.m.-11 p.m. Sunday, 11 a.m. - 8 p.m.
A vibrantly backlit Birmingham skyline at dusk lines a wall at Michael’s Restaurant. The image reveals the heart of the steakhouse and bar: it’s a local, familyowned business full of history. Michael Matsos opened Michael’s Sirloin Room in 1958. Its Southside location quickly became a hot spot for both quality food and the famous sports figures and Hollywood entertainers it served. “Outside of Birmingham, you’re not going to know the name Michael’s,” said General Manager Eric Murphy. “It’s affiliated with Birmingham. It’s affiliated with Alabama football. Bear Bryant hung out at the original Michael’s, and Bob Hope hung out there with him. It was not uncommon to see a big name person when you came into Michael’s.” Michaels’ son, Charles, remembers having dinner in a conference room with Coach Bear Bryant, Johnny Majors, Keith Jackson, and all the SEC officials right after Tennessee-Alabama game when he was in ninth grade. His father and Bryant were close friends. And indeed Michael Matsos was a restaurateur legend in the city. In addition to Michael’s, he bought the original Golden Rule and grew it into a chain of 20 before selling it. He owned the fifth Holiday Inn in the chain and the Hyatt in Birmingham. Renowned restaurateur Frank Stitt was Matsos’ beverage director at the Hyatt, and George Sarris worked for him as well. “He was my mentor and my best friend,” Charles Matsos said. “We saw each
Beef tips with your choice of sides are on the new lunch menu at Michael’s in SOHO. Photo by Madoline Markham.
other every day for 22 years. God blessed me a lot to be able to work for him for that long.” Through a series of moves, Michael’s found itself in its current Riverchase Galleria location in 2007. The Homewood location opened in the Aloft Hotel in SOHO in 2009. Michael Matsos owned the restaurant until he passed away in January; his son, Charles, now owns and runs the Homewood location. Still, according to Murphy, the Homewood patrons mean the most to the restaurant. Regulars at the bar are on a first name basis with one another and the wait staff like a Homewood Cheers.
On a weekday afternoon the restaurant is busy with businessmen and police officers from the station across the street. They share laughs and conversation over hearty-sized cheeseburgers and large helpings of fries, or something off of their meat-and-three style lunch options. It’s the steaks for which the restaurant has long been known. “A lot of people like to come in and eat at Michael’s because of the history,” said Karrie York, event and catering director for Michael’s and Rosewood Hall. “When people come in, they want a good steak, potatoes and a vegetable—your basic meat and veggies. I think that’s one thing
that we have going for us. We stick to the traditional Michael’s. We have changed a bunch of things on the menu, but a lot of the original stuff is still there.” Any item can be special ordered, even if you don’t see it on the menu. This style of customer service is what makes Michael’s a unique place to dine in comparison to the large chain options. Steaks like their famous Steer Butt steak marinated in a secret recipe are sure to please any meat lover, especially Dad on Father’s Day. Their steak is still prepared the same way it was in 1958 under Matsos’ leadership.
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18
| June 2012 | Parks & Recreation
HOMEWOOD PARKS & RECREATION Homewood Community Center Activities Zumba
ZUMBA is the new craze sweeping America! It is Latin inspired aerobic dance and every class feels like a party. ZUMBA is for all ages, and both sexes! You can burn 500 to 1000 calories in one fun hour! Homewood Community Center now has two instructors offering classes: Instructor: Camille Scruggs Contact Info: 256-452-2500 or camillescruggs@gmail.com Days & Times: Homewood Community Center Auditorium Tuesday 5:30-6:30pm Thursday 5:30-6:30pm Saturday 9:00-10:00am
Karate
Classes will be held on Mondays and Wednesdays at the Homewood Community Center from 4 pm – 5pm in the Auditorium. Monthly tuition is $55 - $65. Classes are for children and teenagers ages 4 and up. For more information please contact Master Joe at 966-4244
Claire Goodhew: Summer Ballet Camp
June 18th – 21st Homewood Community Center Time: TBA Cost: $45 We will be transported on one day to a fairytale castle (complete with tiaras, fairy godmother, ect). Then another day we will be out in the woods pretending to be Native Americans and woodland creatures. We will go to an old fashioned toy shop and go to that summertime favorite place, the beach. We will have a wonderful time while learning new skills. For more information contact Claire at (205)879-8780
Belly Dancing with Aziza
Homewood Community Center Auditorium Class fee: $60 cash only For more information contact Aziza at 879-0701 or azizaofbirmingham@att.net Learn the ancient art of Middle Eastern belly dance (classic Egyptian style) with Aziza, award winning dancer, with 36 years of experience in performance and instruction. Women only, ages 13 and up are welcomed in class with no dance experience necessary to enroll. Each session is 5-weeks long on Tuesday night for beginners, Wednesday night for intermediates and Thursday night for advanced. Times are 7:00-8:30pm for beginners and 7:00-8:45pm for intermediates and advanced. Beginners start with the basic steps, isolations and shimmies and progress to the intermediate class where you will learn to put the dance together with more advanced steps and combinations plus dancing with the veil; advanced classes include performing with zills, cane, veil with more advanced and longer performances. The classes are for anyone who wants to dance for fun and fitness, as well as those who wish to perform. Aziza has trained dancers to perform for many events in the Southeastern area in addition to dancers who perform regularly at Ali Baba Persian Restaurant in Hoover. www.azizaofbirmingham.com
Firm Body Bootcamps
Firm Body Bootcamps is an intense fitness program designed to help you lose body fat and tone. Every time you come it’s a different workout so you never get bored. Class times available are MWF 5:30 am – 6:30am and 6:00pm www.firmbodybootcamps.com
Summer Information Pool Memberships
Homewood Community Center Main Office.
Homewood Residents: $100 for the First Person. $25 for each additional Family Member
Non-Residents: $200 for the First Person. $50 for each additional Family Member
Special Events at Homewood Park Free Friday Flicks 2012
2012 Movie Schedule
June 1st – Cars 2 June 8th – The Muppets June 15th – Alice in Wonderland June 22nd – Hugo June 29th – Alvin and The Chipmunks: Chipwrecked July 6th – Kung Fu Panda 2 July 13th – Puss in Boots July 20th -Toy Story 3 July 27th – RAIN DATE (Only used if one of the previous dates rains out)
Free Friday Flicks Rules
1) Once movie begins all spectators are to be seated in main lawn area of Homewood Central Park. 2) Please refrain from talking during the movie as it disturbs others around you. 3) Pavilions, playground, amphitheater/stage, parking lot and skate pad are closed once movie begins. 4) You should only be up from your seating location during the movie for the following: * To use the public bathroom * Purchasing items from vendors * Departing from the event 5) No alcohol or tobacco on Park property. 6) Homewood Police and Homewood Parks & Recreation employees reserve the right to ask anyone to leave the event.
4th of July Festival Downtown Homewood Wednesday, July 4th 2012
The City of Homewood and the Homewood Parks and Recreation will celebrate the 4th of July in Downtown Homewood. The streets in Downtown Homewood will be closed for vehicles to make way for pedestrian traffic. Our event opens to the general public at 5:30PM. There will be a combination of inflatables/rides placed in the streets that will appeal to children of all ages. A DJ will provide music and interactive activities for the patrons at the event. Downtown Homewood is by far one of the best locations in the entire metro area to view the “Thunder on the Mountain” fireworks show from Vulcan Park. All of our activities will end at the beginning of the fireworks show. Proceeds from the event will benefit the H.E.A.T. program at the Homewood Parks and Recreation. The H.E.A.T. program is for 6th – 8th graders in Homewood providing recreational opportunities for the participants in different interest areas.
@homewoodparks
Pool Hours & Information
Homewood Central Pool at Homewood Community Center Pool Hours: Monday – Saturday: 10:00am – 7:00pm Sunday: 1:00pm – 6:00pm Deck Phone: (205) 879-5012 West Homewood Pool at West Homewood Park Pool Hours: Monday – Saturday: 10:00am – 7:00pm Sunday: 1:00pm – 6:00pm Deck Phone: (205) 942-4572
Athletics
Homewood Patriot Youth Football League
HPYFL is responsible for organizing youth football in Homewood and oversees its operation. Please visit their website for more information. Please visit our website for more information: www.homewoodyouthfootball.org
Homewood Soccer Club
Homewood Soccer Club is dedicated to creating a balanced youth soccer program for residents of Homewood and is also open to others with payment of a non-resident fee. There are three levels of play in the soccer program: The Patriot Teams: For player’s age 3 to 7. Teams are established in three age groups, U-4, U-6 and U-8. It is intramural so all activities take place at Homewood Soccer Park. It provides an early learning and playing opportunity, introduces basic soccer skills and focuses on learning “The Joy of the Game”. The Red Teams: Recreational teams for players age 8 and older that offer players the opportunity to learn and enjoy the game in a reduced competitive environment while improving his/her soccer skills. The Blue Teams: Select (Try-out) teams that play at a competitive level. Blue teams are available starting at U-11 up to U-18. Detail information about all three levels, including deadlines, fees and Club philosophy is available on our web site at www.HomewoodSoccer. com , or call David Putman, Soccer Director, at 9798974
www.Homewoodparks.com
www.TheHomewoodStar.com
Homewood Sports Lessons on the court
Homewood Sports | June 2012 |
19
FREE TO BE ME Summer Day Camp YMCA Hargis Retreat
This summer let YMCA Hargis help your child develop self-confidence, make lasting friendships, and learn life-long skills, all while having fun in the great outdoors. Weekly Sessions All Summer Bus pick-up along Highway 280 and Valleydale Road corridors.
Contact 678-6512
Christine Shores at cshores@ymcabham.org Kim Sharp at ksharp@ymcabham.org.
YMCA Hargis Retreat
928 Hargis Drive Chelsea, AL 35043 678-6512 ymcabham.org/hargisretreat
David Luesse with one of his tennis students at West Homewood Park. Photo by Brooke Boucek.
BY BROOKE BOuCEK Competition and perseverance have always been in Dave Luesse’s blood. His father was a semi-pro baseball player for St. Louis, and his siblings took on numerous sports growing up. Sports were important to everyone in the Luesse home. So tennis was a game Luesse was able to naturally pick up as a teen. “As a player, my strong point is definitely my confidence in my serve,” Luesse said. At age 17, Luesse lost in a tournament in his hometown and was determined to win the following year. After working hard and practicing nearly everyday, he won the tournament in both singles and doubles. When Luesse broke his back at age 19, his mother convinced him to play wheelchair tennis. In 1984, Luesse reluctantly agreed to give wheelchair tennis a chance. Soon Luesse was traveling the world playing. “I did weight work and worked out on the court everyday,” Luesse said. His hard earned efforts brought him to the top of USTA rankings. Luesse played two or three years to advance from division B to A and then another few years to be in the open division. In 1990, as one of the oldest players, Luesse won a tournament in California in the open division. At age 34, Dave Luesse was ranked at number 20 in the world. And that was a proud moment. “I’ve always loved the game, but
I never got excited about the trophies I won as a player. They usually just got put in some box,” said Luesse. “Teaching has always been more rewarding.” Luesse taught tennis at St. Louis Society for Crippled Children and in Sparta, Ill. before becoming a certified tennis coach in 1990. After receiving a job at Lakeshore, just four years later, he came to Birmingham to be their first tennis coach. Later, Luesse helped start Tennis Birmingham and is currently a tennis instructor at West Homewood Park. “The best part about teaching is seeing it in my student’s eyes when they finally get it,” Luesse said. “As a player, I understand what it’s like to build up a sort of wall of frustrations. Many of my players have them, and watching them break through that wall is really rewarding.” Luesse offers both private lessons and various clinics at West Homewood Park. Younger children, ages 5-10, are encouraged to play Team Rally Ball. In this high scoring, no serve game players are allowed to hit forehands and backhands with a foam ball. This clinic is intended for all beginners. “60-Foot Tennis” is for advanced beginners ages 9-10. The class offered is played on a court half way between the service line and base line. Boys and girls use overhead serves as they learn to play USTA Rules Tennis on a smaller court. Call Dave for more information at 967-5875 or 901-9243.
Birmingham Tennis Academy BY MADISON MILLER The Birmingham Tennis Academy will begin its summer season on June 6. Formerly known as the Lakeshore Tennis Academy, the Birmingham Tennis Academy changed its name in January. They have several different summer clinics for all age groups; some require no
previous experience. Fees vary based on age group and experience. Visit www.birminghamtennisacademy. com for more information and email birminghamtennisacademy@gmail.com with any other questions.
MISSION To put Judeo-Christian principles into practice through programs that build healthy spirit, mind and body for all. VISION We will lead our community to become the healthiest in America. A United Way partner.
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| June 2012 |
School House
SC class raises money for global hunger
Rebecca Smith’s class
Students in Rebecca Smith’s fourth grade class at Shades Cahaba Elementary School researched different charitable programs for a class project and decided to make a difference with hunger. They believed the best way to help hunger globally was to raise money and find a good organization. They selected the Hunger Project as a class based on the percentage of money it gives directly to help hungry people in
multiple countries and because they feed and help others become independent and self-sufficient. The students asked Homewood stores and restaurants to put jars at their counters. Between the jars and two bake sales, they were able to raise $1,000.27 to send to the Hunger Project. Smith wanted to thank the community for the help in making this project a successful lesson for the students.
HCS Job Shadow Day
First Baptist Church of Birmingham
VACATION BIBLE SCHOOL 2012
Mr. Hawthorne speaks to HHS students about their job shadow responsibilities.
The Homewood Rotary Club sponsored the annual Job Shadow Day in April. This event gave Homewood High School students the opportunity to receive firsthand guidance concerning their career aspirations from area business leaders.
The students were able to learn about the education needed for their career choice, the job responsibilities, the future outlook of this field, a tour of the facilities, hands-on activities, salary and benefit opportunities, etc.
Edgewood Spring Festival
Students enjoy the games at Edgewood’s Spring Festival.
July 16-20 • 9 a.m. – noon
For kids who have completed K5 – 6th Grade Register online at: vbs.FbcBhm.org “In the beginning, God created…”
Those few simple words provide our entire basis of understanding the world in which we live. Come experience the story of Creation as children walk through an unbelievable hands-on discovery of the wonders of God’s creation filled with sensory experiences for them to see, smell, taste, and hear. Crafts, games, and snacks will enhance a complete learning experience.
First Baptist Church of Birmingham 2209 Lakeshore Drive, Homewood
Edgewood Elementary School had another successful Spring Festival this year. There was fun for the entire family including food, rides, games, a raffle and
a silent auction. This is the school’s only fundraiser for the year, and the money raised is used for school materials for students and teachers.
HMS student wins essay contest
Homewood Middle School student Justin Whitworth wrote an essay about his favorite teacher, Coach Steve Sills, that was selected as a winner in the Barnes and Noble “My Favorite Teacher” contest. Justin is in Rebecca Stalling’s class. Sandra Foreman, representative from Barnes and Noble, presented Coach Sills with the award. He received a new color Nook E-Reader and a $500 gift card to Barnes and Noble. The letter will now compete against others in the region.
Sandra Foreman, Justin Whitworth and Steve Sills
School House
www.TheHomewoodStar.com
Mayor surprises HK classroom
Hall-Kent Elementary School second graders in Laura Groves class have been studying the local, state and national government, including the role of the Homewood mayor and the local government. During their writing time, they talked about writing a business letter, so students decided to write a letter
to Mayor Scott McBrayer telling him things they love about the Homewood community. Mayor McBrayer was so impressed with the students’ letters that he surprised them by visiting their classroom and discussed things that are occurring in our community.
Hall-Kent students write to Obama
21
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Mayor Scott McBrayer visited Laura Groves’ class.
| June 2012 |
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Students in Mr. Isley’s class hold up the letters sent from President Obama.
Hall-Kent Elementary School second graders in Jerome Isley’s class worked on a writing project where one group selfselected to write the mayor, one group wrote to the governor and the third group wrote to the president. The students were excited to learn that President Barack Obama not only wrote them back but also sent an autographed photo of himself, a photo of the White
House and a photo of their pet dog, Bo. In addition, the President sent a coloring booklet of the White House, a cut-out of the White House that shows the rooms inside, and a book that tells the history of the pets of the White House dating back to J.F.K’s daughter, who had a pony named Macaroni. The surprise package made the students eager to write more.
He’s not really a superhero
Relay for Life events
Homewood Middle School’s group HMS Men Striving for Success, led by Steve Sills, performed during Relay for Life. The group danced and talked about how they support each other and strive to help and encourage others.
Homewood City Schools celebrated Relay for Life with the community in April. Students and faculty members from each school formed teams and raised money
but he’ll introduce you to one
to help the American Cancer Society save lives. School organizations also performed during Relay and others had booths at the event selling food to raise even more funds.
Young architects at Shades Cahaba
Shades Cahaba Elementary School students participated in the Birmingham Chapter of Alabama Institute of Architects art contest this year. The students were asked to design their Dream Neighborhood and write a Dream Statement describing their neighborhood.
A student in each grade at Shades Cahaba was selected: first grade - Alex Jones; second grade - Nadia Mason, Sid Warren, Caroline Beasley; third grade Natalie Wilson, Abby Wilson; fourth gradeJourdan Elliott; fifth grade - Mary Eliza Beaumont, Zoe Jacks.
Highlands United Methodist Church www.fivepointschurch.org
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Calendar of Events
| June 2012 |
Homewood Events 6/1, 6/8, 6/15, 6/22, 6/29– Complimentary Wine Tasting. Piggly Wiggly, 3000 Montgomery Hwy. Fridays, 4 p.m.-6 p.m. Weekly wine tasting. Free. More information: call 879-0884 or visit pigglywigglybirmingham.com. 6/2- Preserve Jazz Prelude: An Intimate Evening with Alex Bugnon and Eric EssixIn. Samford University’s Brock Recital Hall. 7 p.m. Reserved seats: $75 (includes pass to Preserve Jazz Festival, Sunday June 3 in Hoover). VIP: $125 (includes a pre-show artist meet & greet at 6 p.m., and pass to Preserve Jazz Festival, Sunday June 3 in Hoover). More information: www4.samford.edu/groups/ wvsu/. 6/3 – Miss Alabama Pageant Press Party. Brookwood Mall Food Court area. 12:30 p.m.-1:30 p.m. Contestants will be presented, and the press will take photos and interview contestants. 6/6-6/9 – Miss Alabama Pageant. Samford University’s Leslie Stephen Wright Center. 7:30 p.m. More information: tickets can be purchased by calling 871-6276 or going to missalabama.com. 6/9 – Oakmont United Methodist Church Spree. 914 Oak Grove Road, Homewood. 9 a.m.-3 p.m. Vendors and yard sale, men’s BBQ, bake sale and plant sale. 6/19 – Homewood Chamber of Commerce Luncheon. Alabama Tourism Director Lee Sentell will speak. The Club. 11:30 a.m. - 1 p.m. More information/Registration: homewoodchamber.com. 6/21 – Chefs for the Cure. Summit Club. 6 p.m.-9 p.m. Hosted by North Central Alabama Affiliate of Susan G. Komen for the Cure. Tickets: $100 per ticket and $150 for two tickets. More information: to purchase tickets, visit komenNCalabama. org or call 263-1700. 6/21 – Third Thursdays Wine Down. 5 p.m.-7 p.m. For more information, visit
ages welcome. Large groups, call 332-6619.
make wallets, flip flops and more with duct tape. Patterns provided, but creativity is encouraged. Snacks and all supplies provided. ‘
6/14- Summer Night at the Library. 6 p.m. Maynard Magic and Music.
6/16- Say Hola to Spanish. 10:30 a.m.
Children’s Dance Foundation’s June Modern Dance Guest Art Series
6/20- Fangcakes. 3 p.m. Rising 6th-12th graders only. Join Chef Angela and learn how to make fang-tastic cupcakes! Space for this program is limited and registration is required.
1715 27th Court South. Tuesdays, 6-7:30 p.m. Admission: $12 per class. Ages 16 and up. More information; 870-0073 or childrensdancefoundation.org.
6/27- Ugly Nightmare Dolls. 3 p.m. Rising 6th-12th graders only. Basic patterns will be provided, but creativity is encouraged. Snacks and all supplies will be provided.
6/5 – Eric Stern 6/12 – Sarah Barry 6/19 – Margi Cole 6/26 – Rachel Inman
Library Children’s Department
Homewoodchamber.com or call 871-5631. 6/25– Vestavia Town Village Players. Homewood Senior Center. 11 a.m. Admission: $6 at the door and includes lunch. Must register on the Friday prior to the event. More information: 332-6500.
Homewood Library Events 6/9- British TV viewing - Doctor Who Fan Club. 2:30 p.m. Our group meets once a month to watch Doctor Who as well as other British Science Fiction related shows. Programming is restricted to PG-13. All ages are welcome to attend. Admission: Free. More information: 877-8665. 6/12 – Estate Planning Essentials Workshop. Room 101. 6 p.m. Presented by The Greene Law Firm, LLC. This workship covers frequently asked questions and misconceptions on wills and trusts, asset protection, nursing home issues and Medicaid qualifications. Coffee and pastries will be available before the meeting. Seating limited and reservations required. Admission: Free. More information: for reservations, contact Attorney Jay Green at 746-2465.
Library Events for Teens 6/6- T-Shirt Tagging. 3 p.m. Rising 6th12th graders only. All supplies, except t-shirts, will be provided. Program will be held outside and may be cancelled or rescheduled if weather is inclement. 6/13- Got Tape? 3 p.m. Rising 6th-12th graders only. Come by the library and
Reminder: Bring in your Reading Log and add your name to the Wall of Fame each week. 6/5- Nail painting and cookies. 10:30 a.m. Wear your PJ’s, bring a pillow or sleeping bag! Virginia College’s cosmetology students will be painting nails and Barber’s will be bringing milk for homemade cookies! 6/6- Summer Story Time. 10:30 a.m. All ages welcome. Large groups, call 332-6619. 6/7- Summer Night at the Library. 6 p.m. Flow Circus juggling arts. 6/8- Leaps and Bounds. 10:30 a.m. 2 ½ - 4 year olds with an adult. Registration required. No younger/older siblings. Registration begins June 4 at 10 a.m. Call 332-6619. 6/9- Cereal and Cartoons. 10 a.m.-noon. Dry cereal (no milk). Cereal is available until 10:45 a.m. 6/11- Summer Schoolers Club. 10:30 a.m. 3rd-5th graders. McWane Center Program. Sorry, no younger siblings or guests. Must register to attend. Limited space. Call 3326619 for details or to register. 6/12- 4H Creatures of the Night. 10:30 a.m. 6/13- Summer Story Time. 10:30 a.m. All
6/15- Lowe’s Build and Grow Clinics. 10:30 a.m. 6/18- Monday Movie. 3 p.m. 6/19- The Mobile Dairy Classroom & Mayfield Ice Cream. 10:30 a.m. Larger groups are welcome, but please call 3326619. 6/20- Summer Story Time. 10:30 a.m. All ages welcome. Large groups, call 332-6619. 6/21- Summer night at the Library. 6 p.m. Camp Fire Sing Along with Miss Eve. 6/22- Cerealism with Michael Albert. 10:30 a.m. This program is only open to 2nd-5th graders. Limited to the first 15 Homewood Library Summer Readers to register at 332-6619. 6/23- Cereal and Cartoons. 10 a.m.-noon. Dry cereal (no milk). Cereal is available until 10:45 a.m. 6/25- Summer Schoolers Club. 10:30 a.m. 3rd-5th graders. McWane Center Program. Sorry, no younger siblings or guests. Must register to attend. Limited space. Call 3326619 for details or to register. 6/26- Water Play and Chick-fil-A Lemonade. 10:30 a.m. Cancelled in the event of bad weather. Proper dress required. No dressing available in library. 6/27- Summer Story Time. 10:30 a.m. All ages welcome. Large groups, call 332-6619. 6/28- Summer Night at the Library. 6 p.m. Come watch Top Dog Agility perform. 6/29- Leaps and Bounds. 10:30 a.m. 2 ½ - 4 year olds with an adult. Registration required. No younger/older siblings. Registration begins June 25 at 10 a.m. Call 332-6619. 6/30- Say Hola to Spanish. 10:30 a.m. A special language learning story time for ages 5-8 years.
Summer Fun Photo Contest
Capture the fun of summer with your camera, and send us your favorite shots of the backyard, lake,beach, mountain, neighborhood and wherever you and your family are. Our staff will choose the images that most colorfully capture a summer experience. Prizes will be awarded to contest winners. To enter, email your photos in a jpeg format to photos@thehomewoodstar.com. Please send high quality images and include a caption and photo credit. Only 4 entry photos are allowed per person.
Deadline for entries is August 10, 2012. We will publish the winners in the September issue as well as post them on our Facebook page and our website.
By submitting a photo, you are giving The Homewood Star permission to publish it in the paper and online.
Homewood Happenings | June 2012 |
www.TheHomewoodStar.com
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Homewood Happenings Jasmin Arch Threading & Lounge YoYo Donuts, Etc. open in relocates to Greensprings Merchants Walk Jasmin Arch Threading & Lounge has relocated to Greensprings Highway in the Publix shopping center. It is located between Firehouse Subs and Head Start. The business offers eyebrow threading services starting at $10, as well as other threading and waxing services for your
body including facials. Jasmin Arch is located at 429 Greensprings Highway, Suite 141. Hours are Monday-Saturday, 10 a.m.-9 p.m. and Sunday, 12 p.m.-6 p.m. Call 942-4404 for more information.
YoYo Donuts, Etc. has opened in the Merchants Walk shopping center between TCBY and Homewood Gourmet. The shop sells fresh gourmet donuts of all varieties, including donuts with fresh fruit and glaze on top. In addition to donuts, Yo Yo Donuts, Etc. offers sausage biscuits, muffins,
cookies, bagels, cupcakes, individual pies and more. YoYo Donuts, Etc. is located at 1919 28th Street South. Hours are Monday-Friday, 5 a.m.-3 p.m. and Saturday, 5 a.m.-1 p.m. Call 868-4704 for more information.
RSA Medical Boutique now open on Central Avenue
Gourmet popsicle shop now open on Central Avenue
Respiratory Sleep Associates, a local family-owned medical equipment company in Homewood, has opened a new medical products boutique. After 10 years of providing patients with CPAPs/BIPAPs, nebulizers and home oxygen systems, they will now also offer unique retail medical products that promote independence in mobility and function while maintaining style.
Steel City Pops, a gourmet popsicle shop, opened in May next to Little Donkey on Central Avenue. While on a family vacation to Nashville, owner Jim Watkins visited a shop that sold all-natural gourmet popsicles, which inspired him to open a similar shop in the Birmingham area. Some of their unique popsicle flavors include Blood Orange, Hibiscus and
The Homewood Chamber of Commerce will be holding a ribbon cutting ceremony at the boutique on June 5 to officially mark their grand opening. RSA Medical Boutique is located at 2900 Central Avenue, Suite 130 in downtown Homewood. Hours are Monday-Friday, 8:30 a.m.-5 p.m. Call 8711977 or visit www.rsamedicalboutique.com for more information.
Book donations wanted The Homewood Public Library is collecting now for their Annual FOHO Blockbuster Book Sale in August and would be thrilled to add your donations to our growing collection of bestsellers, old favorites, children’s picture books, craft and cook books and much more.
Bring your donations to the Friends Book Store Monday through Friday from 10 a.m. – 4 p.m. or Saturday from 10 a.m. – 2 p.m. More information: call Deborah Fout at 332-6637 or email her at dfout@bham.lib. al.us.
Pineapple Jalapeno. However, they also offer classic flavors such as Chocolate and Vanilla Bean. They plan to open vending carts around Birmingham in the near future. Steel City Pops is located at 2821 Central Avenue, Suite 109. Hours are Sunday through Thursday from 12 to 9 p.m. and Friday through Saturday from 12 to 10 p.m.
Kimono Ink School for Girls opens Kimono Ink School for Girls is now open. The modeling and etiquette academy is dedicated to helping girls become more confident and self-assured in a professional, fun and glamorous atmosphere. They will host productions throughout the year.
Kimono Ink is located at 1720-A 28th Avenue South. Call Kneonia Steele at (424)-653-0024 for an audition or to visit the school. For more information, visit kimonoinkschoolforgirls.com or email kimonoinkschoolforgirls@gmail.com.
| June 2012 |
801 Green Springs Hwy Homewood 916-0401
The Best Chicken Tenders In Town & A Whole Lot More!
Come and join us and try our other signature dishes!
philly cheese steak hoagie, chicken kabob entree, home made burgers & our desserts
Breakfast Lunch Dinner Outdoor Dining Outside Pick-up Limited Drive Thru Menu www.thebaskits.com
Chicken Tenders Meal 25PC CHICKEN TENDERS WITH A BUCKET OF HOME MADE SAUCE (FAMILY OF 4)
ONLY
$20
Expires 6-30-12
Lunch Box Catering Special CHICKEN TENDER (PITA) WRAP (FRIED), WITH CHIPS, COOKIE & FRUIT CUP
$6.50 per box
(MINIMUM ORDER 2O PEOPLE) INDIVIDUALLY BOXED WITH NAPKINS UTENSIL KIT
Expires 6-30-12
SPEND $15 TAKE
10% OFF
plus a FREE chocolate pie! (NOT VALID WITH ANY OTHER SPECIALS OR OFFERINGS)
Expires 6-30-12