The Homewood Star by Starnes Media

The Homewood Star | April 2012 |

www.TheHomewoodStar.com

neighborly news & entertainment for Homewood

Volume 2 | Issue 1 | April 2012

Shining Starpg 12

Siblings golf- pg 18

Spring fashion- pg 13

Team Bottchen walks for MS By RICK WATSON Meridith Bottchen was 28 years old when she began to feel an odd tingling in her left arm and leg. It would have been easy to dismiss, but she realized her grandfather with Multiple Sclerosis (MS) had similar symptoms. Even though she knew the disease would change her life, she decided she wasn’t going to take it sitting down. Meridith got treatment right away to address her own health, but she also became a fundraising machine to help raise money for research for the disease. Her efforts with the Alabama-Mississippi Chapter of the National Multiple Sclerosis Society have also helped raise awareness about MS. “I told her she missed her calling,” said Meridith’s father, Steve Bottchen, who works for the City of Homewood. “She should have been a professional fundraiser.” “Team Bottchen” participates in Birmingham Walk MS each year and has raised thousands for the MS Society. This year Steve wanted a little more of a challenge, so they signed up to walk 50

April Features Mayor’s Minute

Upcoming events

Making Homewood Home Again 8 10 Easter events Tammy Connor

Fashion Spotlight

Lauren Denton

Restaurant Showcase

Business Spotlight

Sports

School House

Calendar of Events

Homewood Happenings

Like us

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Steve and Meridith Bottchen will be a part of the Walk MS at Homewood Central Park on April 14. Photo by Madoline Markham.

miles in three days for the Challenge Walk in Charleston in March. Now that they have completed that

challenge, the duo are preparing for the local Walk MS scheduled for Saturday, April 14 at Homewood Park.

Multiple Sclerosis is an unpredictable,

See WALK MS | page 18

Bi-level Target to open by 2013 By ALLIE KLAUBERT Construction has begun on the new Target in Colonial Brookwood Village. The store is scheduled to open in March 2013. “We are excited,” said Mayor Scott McBrayer. “I believe that Homewood will be an excellent fit for Target.” The new store, located in the southwestern end of the development, will be two levels and 135,000 square feet. It will carry brands and essentials that customers expect from Target, but it will also feature an expanded fresh food section. “The nice thing about the expanded fresh food layout is that guests can find an extended selection of fresh fruit, meat and perishables in addition to the typical offerings,” said Meghan Mike, associate specialist for Target. Homewood mother, Sarah Paulk, is excited to have Target closer to home. “I love the quality and variety of items that Target carries, in addition to the clean and comfortable atmosphere,” she said. “It will be a convenience for the residents of Homewood,” said City Councilman Hunter Payne. “Instead of leaving Homewood to shop in another city, they can now stay here.” Target is known for its involvement in its stores’ communities. The Homewood location will start a local grant program,

A two-story Target is under construction on Lakeshore Drive. Photo by Madoline Markham.

contribute to the United Way and donate food regularly. “Target works closely with local officials and guests to create stores that complement and support a community’s needs,” said Mike. The Homewood location will also support local schools through the Take Charge of Education Program. Through

the program, Target donates 1 percent of purchases made with a Target REDcard to a local school of the customer’s choice. “We are committed to being a good neighbor and developing longlasting relationships with guests and the Homewood community,” said Sid Keswani, Target’s senior vice president of stores in the South region.

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| April 2012 |

The Homewood Star

Editor’s Note

Homewood Middle School seventh graders Elise Bals, Sally Smalley and Molly Hughes worked at the Catherine Sims Garden in Edgewood on March 3 with other members of Girl Scout Troop 152. Photo by Madoline Markham.

Contributing Photographers Anna Cate Little | Rick Watson

Publisher Dan Starnes

Editor Ashley Berkery

Managing Editor

One year ago this month, we launched the first issue of The Homewood Star. At the time, we could not have imagined the exciting journey that awaited us as we offered up this new way for citizens of Homewood to look at their community and at themselves. As a business enterprise and as a community, we’ve enjoyed positive growth this year, and along the way we’ve observed a renewed interest in all of the elements that make our community and our city unique. We enjoy a wonderful image in Homewood, and it is well deserved. It’s been a real pleasure lifting that image up to you in the past twelve months. Have you noticed a recent turn in the weather? I think there are probably some cool days still ahead, but spring is definitely here. Buds are popping out, flowers are blooming and we’re seeing that hint of green in the trees and grass become more lush. Now that the weather is warming up, people are out and about, and that means April is filled with outdoor events that your family can enjoy. Two national fundraisers are taking place this month at our own Homewood Central Park: Walk MS and The American Cancer Society’s Relay for Life. We invite you to read about several community members who have been affected by these diseases and to learn how you can help in our stories. Now that spring is here, outdoor entertaining is in full swing and many of us (my family included) are expanding our patio options so we can dine and relax outside. On page 7 you can learn how a local landscape company can help you create the perfect space for your home’s outdoor needs. Easter is celebrated this month, and we have highlighted Easter events that you can enjoy on page 10. This is also the season for

Passover, and we hope you will enjoy Lauren Denton’s column on her family’s tradition of celebrating both Easter and Passover. Anna Cate Little shares on page 16 ways that will help you spend less time in the kitchen this holiday and more time with your family by placing your catering orders with Edgewood Catering. She has also researched some local places to buy the perfect Easter sweet treats for those eagerly awaiting Easter baskets (page 10). In case you don’t already know her, Tammy Connor is spotlighted this month on page 11. A Homewood graduate and now Homewood resident and interior design business owner, Tammy is always on the go and has recently been recognized nationally and internationally for her talented projects. Our spring intern, Craig Kleimeyer, had an adventure with our Homewood Police Department recently. No, she didn’t get a ticket; she rode along with some of the officers on their shift to get an inside look at a day in their lives. Her report is on page 4. The seniors at our Senior Center are very active this time of year, so we have included on page 9 some of the things they have been up to. And, as always, your news or story ideas are welcomed. Email me at ashley@ thehomewoodstar.com and let us know what’s going on in your neighborhood and with your family. We hope you have a wonderful spring and enjoy all that Homewood has to offer this month!

Call for Easter photos Happy Easter from The Homewood Star! Send us your pictures of egg hunts, the Easter bunny, Easter lunches and Easter dresses. Email them to ashley@ thehomewoodstar.com. We’ll run our favorites in print and all submissions online.

Madoline Markham

Creative Director Keith McCoy

Editor at Large Joe Samuel Starnes

Published by Homewood Star LLC

Sales and Distribution

Rhonda Smith | Angela Morris | Dan Starnes

Interns Craig Kleimeyer | Virginia Duffee | Allie Klaubert

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 Allie Klaubert is a sophomore at Samford University, pursuing a degree in public relations and marketing. An Atlanta native, Allie enjoys spending time on the lake with her family and exploring Birmingham with friends.

Please Support Our Sponsors AAA Travel (1) Alabama Allergy Center (7) Armor Insurance (4) Birmingham Botanical Gardens (24) Birmingham Zoo (15) Brandino Brass (19) Briarcliff Shop (7) Brookwood Medical Center (3) Classic Cabinets (16) Dawson (9) Edgewood Creamery (11) First Lenders (20) Four Corners Gallery (5) General Pest Control (3) Harmony Landing (16) Homewood Antiques (18) Homewood Dentistry (17) Homewood Music (9) Homewood Parks & Rec (14)

Hunter’s Cleaners (21) InShape MD (6) Issis & Sons (23) Jaqueline DeMarco (5) Longworth Collection (20) Lovoy’s (13) Mountain Brook Art Association (18) Medhelp (13) Mountain Brook Chamber (12) New York Pizza (11) Once Upon a Time (15) Oxmoor Valley Orthodontics (10) Piggly Wiggly (6) Plastic Surgery Specialists (10) Renaissance Consignment (8) Salem’s Diner (9) Skin Wellness Center of Alabama (10) The Wade Team (4) Traci Vella (19)

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The Homewood Star

12 things I learned about the Homewood Police Department By CRAIG KLEIMEYER The Homewood Star intern Craig Kleimeyer rode along on an eight-hour shift with Homewood Police officers. Here’s what she learned behind the scenes. 1. Usually when you hear the word “beat,” you think of music, but that’s not what it means to Homewood patrol officers. Homewood is split into six different “beats,” and patrol officers work in those beats every day. Officers meet 15 minutes before their eight hour shift begins for roll call and beat assignments. 2. Patrol officers are not only patrol officers. After meeting Officer Craig Clifton, I soon found out that he is also a journalist for the military, which he said helps him write clear and concise reports for law enforcement. I also rode with Officer Ted Springfield, who has a wife and three kids. 3. Homewood’s sniper team is one of the best in the state. A sniper team member said Homewood has one of the few sniper teams with the capability of explosive breaching. “Other teams go to SWAT schools and refer to the Homewood Tactical Team,” Springfield said. 4. Many of Homewood’s patrol officers have been in the military. Clifton enlisted in the Army Reserves in 2007 and served as a public affairs specialist in Iraq. “The atmosphere of a police department is similar to active duty in the military,” he said. “A lot of Army reserves work in police departments.” 5. Officers treat each other like family. “Officer Poellnitz cooks dinner for you when you’re sick,” Springfield said. “It’s a small department, so we get to know each other pretty well.” 6. Becoming a patrol officer takes the right personality type and training. Before he went to 12 weeks of field training, Clifton first had to get a background check

Craig Kleimeyer got a behind-the-scenes look at the day of a Homewood police officer on an eight-hour ride-along. Photo by Madoline Markham.

and take a personality based test to see if his personality and decision-making skills fit with law enforcement. 7. Officers don’t have to prosecute every crime every time. Clifton said that he and the other officers make individual decisions and use their own judgment when it comes to prosecuting crimes. 8. Officers try not to involve their emotions in their work. Springfield said patrol officers deal with so many tough situations and have to be careful with involving their emotions. “You keep an emotional distance from things,” Springfield said. “We try to keep it business-like.” He said it was hard for him sometimes if a situation involved kids.

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hold true. “We don’t really eat a lot of donuts and drink coffee,” Springfield said. Ironically, we had to make a mid-shift stop for some Starbucks. 12. We can help the patrol officers in the community. Springfield encourages citizens to join the Citizens Police Academy and to tap in on the work of the Homewood Police Department and help out. “We’re great officers doing a lot of good work and trying to keep everyone informed the best we can. It’s a group effort,” he said. “We need your eyes as well as our own.”

The Homewood Star

www.TheHomewoodStar.com

| April 2012 |

Mayor’s Minute Dear Friends and Neighbors, While driving around Homewood this week, it was hard to deny just how beautiful our city is. With spring in full force and everything blooming with gorgeous and vibrant colors, it has made me reflect on how fortunate we are to be living in a city like Homewood. Our streets are lined with beautiful trees, neighbors are staying outside longer with the time change, and children fill our yards playing. I love seeing the moms and dads sitting in their front yards watching their children play and waving to their friends who are either walking or driving down their street. It makes me feel very grateful for being fortunate enough to live in Homewood. There are many other nice areas around us, but those areas are no match for Homewood. So what makes us so different? I think it has something to do with hometown pride and family values. It’s one thing to hear about those traits on television or see them in the political ads mailed to your home, but we get to see those qualities every single day here in our city. Homewood attracts such nice people, and nice people make great neighbors. I often hear people liken Homewood to Mayberry, and I smile knowing Mayberry has nothing on Homewood. I remember when I graduated from Samford and started looking for a home. I told my real estate agent that my home had to be in Homewood. No other city was an option for me. I had the opportunity to watch Homewood families while I was in school and knew I wanted to be a part of the good things happening here. That sentiment still holds true today, and I am so thankful Homewood is where I call home now. Our city continues to grow and to prosper, and the future of Homewood is brighter than ever. With the help of my council and employees, we just finished our third year in a row with a surplus. I’m so grateful we are not talking about

layoffs, pay cuts, four-day work weeks, and all the other things our county and other cities are experiencing. Instead, we are working toward providing more services for our neighbors, improving our city and infrastructure, and creating ways administratively to provide more for less money. I didn’t say it was easy, but I will say it is worth it. Our community is worthy of the effort it takes for us to be successful, and it’s important we stay on top. I watch new residents move in and hope they will love Homewood as much as we do. I know residents who have lived here more than 50 years, and I want each year to get better and better for them to confirm their belief they had so many years ago that Homewood would be a great place to live and raise a family. As you are driving or walking in Homewood, take a moment to reflect on how fortunate we all are. A year ago this coming April, Homewood could have been completely destroyed. Seeing the beauty of spring this year makes me even more grateful for all we have as a community after seeing just how much was lost last spring in other communities. It makes me want to say “thank you” to all of you again for being so gracious with your time and with your resources as you quietly went about helping others in need. Our homes and families were spared, allowing us to go help others. I wasn’t surprised one bit knowing those of you who make up our city, and I’m grateful to just be associated with really good neighbors and a great city. We will continue to work hard serving you and trust you will call or email with specific needs or requests. With kindest regards I remain, Sincerely, Scott McBrayer Mayor City of Homewood

Jacqueline Dillon DeMarco, PhD Clinical Psychologist

Hearing on city’s Capital Improvement Plan By CRAIG KLEIMEYER The Homewood City Council will hold its second annual Public Hearing on the City of Homewood’s long-term Capital Improvement Plan on April 9 at 6 p.m. in City Hall. Come

the

hearing

for

the

opportunity to share your thoughts on what the City’s priorities should be over the next five years. If you have preferences on what the City should or should not pursue, please attend the hearing and voice your opinions to the Council.

Renter’s insurance is essential By JASON HALLMAN Homewood Fire Marshal Rusty McCombs advises all renters to purchase renter’s insurance in order to protect their personal property in the event of a fire or other disaster. The need for renter’s insurance exists whether you are renting an apartment, a house or a dorm room. An owner’s insurance only covers the structure and not the renter’s belongings. This also applies to people living in college dorm rooms. “Even a fire that starts in another apartment can cause everything you own to be lost to fire or water damage,” said McCombs. “You can be the safest person in the world and your neighbor may not be,” Fire Chief John Bresnan said. They recommend taking these precautions:

ff Make yourself and your family aware of the possible ways to exit your building.

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HFD fights a recent fire at a local apartment complex. Photo courtesy of Homewood Fire Department.

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| April 2012 |

The Homewood Star

Edgewood’s Spring Festival

Botanical Gardens Spring Plant Sale By CRAIG KLEIMEYER

Edgewood students are excited for this year’s festival. The Edgewood Elementary PTO is gearing up for the school’s annual Spring Festival on Saturday, April 28 from 2 to 6 p.m. The festival features carnival games, inflatables for all ages and thrilling rides. A silent auction featuring local artwork, restaurant gifts cards, trips and merchandise will be open in the school gym

from 2 to 5 p.m. There will also be food. Tickets and armbands will be available for purchase on the day of the festival, and all proceeds from the festival go back into Edgewood’s classrooms. Edgewood Elementary School is located at 901 College Avenue. For more information on the festival, please email barryandkyle1@ charter.net.

Switchfoot coming to Samford May 3 By CRAIG KLEIMEYER Popular rock band Switchfoot will perform in Samford University’s Pete Hanna Center on Thursday, May 3 at 7 p.m. The concert is part of a week-long series of Spring Fling events at Samford. The five-member group began with success in the Christian rock scene. Switchfoot gained mainstream recognition when its music was featured in the movie A Walk to Remember in 2002. Their most recent album is Vice Versa (2011).

Band members are Jon Foreman (lead vocals, guitar), Tim Foreman (bass guitar, backing vocals), Chad Butler (drums, percussion), Jerome Fontamillas (guitar, keyboards, backing vocals) and Drew Shirley (guitar, backing vocals). All tickets are $16 and are general admission. Tickets may be purchased at: https://www.ticketreturn.com/prod2/ team.asp?SponsorID=4517. For more information, call 726-2276.

The largest annual plant sale fundraiser of 2012 will take place at the former Mazer’s Discount Home Store on Greensprings Avenue in Homewood from April 12 to 15. More than 100,000 plants will be available for purchase. More than 7,000 people attended last year’s sale, and similar crowds are expected this year. Birmingham Botanical Gardens hosts both a fall and a spring sale annually. The spring sale helps further the Birmingham Botanical Gardens’ mission of promoting public knowledge and appreciation of plants, gardens and the environment and also providing plant consumers with spring planting advice from experts. Also, each purchase supports a worthy cause. More than 1,000 of the signature plant for 2012, the Senorita Rosalita® Cleome hybrid ‘Inncleosr,’ will be available for only $5 each. This year’s sale will feature three special events. The annual Preview Party and Members-Only Sale will kick off on Thursday, April 12 at 5:30 p.m. The Preview Party will allow guests to shop early, enjoy great food, wine and a free Senorita Rosalita®. Then, on Friday, the Junior Board of

A customer at last year’s plant sale. Birmingham Botanical Gardens will present the first ever Tunes ‘n Blooms. Admission to the Preview Party is $45 in advance and $50 at the door. Members can attend Tunes ‘n Blooms for $10 and non-members for $15. Guests can shop while Will and Sarah Mason provide musical entertainment, and drinks and hors d’oeuvres will be served. The public sale will be Friday and Saturday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. and on Sunday from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Admission to the public sale is free, and volunteer opportunities are available. The sale is sponsored in part by Dunn Real Estate, Terra Equities, inBham, Fox 6, Leaf & Petal at The Gardens, Birmingham Home & Garden and Valpak of Central Alabama. For more information, go to www.bbgardens. org/springplantsale.

Bravo!Birmingham at Wright Center Due to the success of the 2011 production of Bravo!Birmingham, Alabama artists who have achieved national or international recognition will return to Samford University’s Wright Center for the new 2012 show on Friday, May 4 at 7:30 p.m. The show, presented by the Birmingham Music Club, presents Birmingham celebrities in 90 minutes of live entertainment. The program is a

fundraiser for the Birmingham Music Club’s artist series and the BMC Guild’s music scholarships. To purchase tickets, call the Samford box office at 726-2853 (open Mon.-Fri., 9-5), or go online to www.samford.edu/ wrightcenter or www.bhammusicclub. org. Prices are $45, $35 and $25. Children 12 and under and balcony seats $10. A $5 discount per ticket is offered for groups of 10 or more.

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Exterior entertaining

| April 2012 |

Trees in danger By CRAIG KLEIMEYER

A recent Curb Appeal outdoor project complete with fireplace.

By ASHLEY BERKERY With the popularity of home renovations in Homewood, we are seeing more outdoor landscaping additions as part of the renovation packages, making our homes perfect for entertaining. Fletcher Smith, owner of Curb Appeal Inc., said the trends for outdoor patios and fireplaces are becoming more and more popular. “Especially in the spring and fall months, a fire place outdoors is ideal for relaxing and complements your entertaining space,” Smith said. Before beginning your project, Smith suggests setting goals for what you want to accomplish. Do you want an outdoor kitchen or grill area, or is more seating a top priority? Smith shared some of his expert tips to consider when expanding your outdoor space:

ff Low voltage outdoor lighting is a nice touch to any outdoor living area.

ff It is important to choose the right

materials for your outdoor living areas, patios and fireplaces, such as brick, stone and pavers.

ff A more cost efficient way to expand

your space is to install a fire pit instead of a fireplace.

ff Proper placement for an outdoor fireplace or fire pit is important for safety reasons.

“There are so many options when expanding outdoor space,” Smith said, “and it is always nice to see clients put their special touches to our projects.” For more information on how to expand your exterior and for a complimentary quote, visit www.curbappealonline.com or call 942-5200.

Beautiful, old trees fill our neighborhoods, but some homeowners might not realize that many of those trees are in eminent danger. The trees are shrouded in wisteria, ivy or kudzu vines from head to toe. Once vines cover a tree, it starts to die because its leaves can no longer receive sunlight. Sallie Lee, Urban Regional Extension Agent at Birmingham Botanical Gardens, emphasized that invasive species like kudzu and wisteria out-compete the native plants and can harm them. “Every time you see a vine, kudzu, or wisteria, it doesn’t mean that it will kill the tree, but it’s a good idea to get it out because in some cases it will strangle the tree and the tree could eventually die,” she said. The two main species of native trees that are prevalent in the forest throughout Homewood are the Post Oak and the Blackjack Oak. Two years ago, Homewood resident Chris Underwood noticed that kudzu was all over the trees next door to her condo. She clipped the vines low to the ground, and the next year, some smaller trees that had been shaded out by the kudzu were able to get sunlight and grew. Since then, Underwood has been cutting on Shades Creek Preserve behind Homewood High School with her friends, Anlie and James Greene once a week. “We cut the vines at the base, which kills them for another two years,” Underwood said. “Anyone who is able should come and help.” Fellow Friends of Shades Creek member Henry Hughes, who serves as education director at the Birmingham Botanical Gardens, said that kudzu was introduced for erosion control, but it takes

Edgewood Garden Club members Chris Underwood and Anlie Greene cut down vines near the Shades Creek Greenway. Photo courtesy of Chris Underwood. over all landscapes. “We don’t want it to grow any more in new locations, so we try very hard to get rid of it,” he said. “It has large root systems underground and produces some seed that can produce new plants. We pull it out so that it doesn’t expand to new locations.” Lee and Hughes both said that urban trees like Homewood’s often don’t have enough room to grow when they are planted in the wrong places. For example, the roots of trees near sidewalks don’t have enough space and can’t get the tree the air that it needs. “I encourage citizens to plant trees on their own property, where they have more room to grow,” Hughes said. “We need to take good care of our native trees and not cut them down.” If you are interested in joining Friends of Shades Creek and helping preserve the beauty of Homewood’s trees, the group meets at the Homewood Library on the second Thursday of each month. Or, to help Chris Underwood’s group, email her at chrisunderwood@bellsouth.net.

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| April 2012 |

The Homewood Star

Making Homewood home again Leslie Doyle and Elizabeth Studinka By ASHLEY BERKERY

Back row: Kevin and Elizabeth Studinka, Leslie and Carter Doyle. Front row: Henry, Frank and Grace Studinka, Crawford Doyle. Photo courtesy of Elizabeth Studinka.

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Carter is now employed at Homewood High School. “We love living in Homewood near my sister and her family,” Leslie said. “Having an only child, it is nice for him to be near his cousins, and of course his grandparents

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Sisters Leslie Doyle and Elizabeth Studinka have fond memories of growing up in Homewood—so much in fact that they have chosen to raise their own families here. They grew up in Forest Brook with the maiden name Bugg but were not annexed in Homewood schools until Elizabeth was in second grade, when she then attended Hall-Kent elementary and Leslie was at HMS. As the “new kid” in middle school, Leslie remembers making friends quickly by joining the show choir. Music was an important part of their childhood with their father directing the Opera Department at Samford University for 33 years. Both sisters were heavily involved in music programs throughout school. The year Elizabeth started the middle school the family moved to Wellington Road, where Elizabeth’s childhood memories include walking and biking to friends’ houses, Big B Drugs and Dino’s Hot Dogs for snacks. Both attended Auburn University, five years apart, where Elizabeth ultimately decided to pledge Leslie’s sorority, Tri Delta, and be a part of something her sister loved so much. After college, Elizabeth moved back to Birmingham and was a lifeguard at the Homewood pool with her friend and college roommate, Tiffany Studinka. “I met Tiffany’s brother, Kevin, in middle school when I was an eighth grade aide for show choir and he was in sixth grade,” Elizabeth said, “but he conveniently says he doesn’t remember that. We reconnected after college, started dating and have been married for 10 years

are still in Homewood, which is special.” Although the sisters both live in Homewood, being working moms makes it tough to see each other as much as they would like. Elizabeth teaches fourth grade at Oak Mountain Intermediate School, and Leslie is an area marketing manager at Regions Bank and a board member of The Homewood Foundation. “We make time for each other through girl’s nights and afternoon pedicures,” Elizabeth said. “And with Mom and Dad still in Homewood, we are all able to get together with them several times a week.” Their kids go to different elementary schools, but through their involvement with Homewood youth sports, the sisters are able to hang out at the ball park when games overlap. Elizabeth and Leslie have made new friends with other sports parents from all areas of Homewood, but it is rare to catch Elizabeth out without one of her childhood friends. “Homewood has so many wonderful things about it – the small town community feel, the parks and pools, and the great school system,” Elizabeth said, “but the most special thing to me is my cherished friendships with my childhood friends.” Years later she still hangs out with her core group of friends from Hall-Kent. Today their children are now in school together at Hall-Kent, and they take family vacations together. Leslie seconds her love for Homewood. Some of her friendships with Homewood graduates are even stronger now than they were in high school. “That is the beauty of Homewood,” Leslie said, “its strong sense of community that you can’t find many places.”

The Homewood Star

www.TheHomewoodStar.com

Senior Center holds square dances By FLORENCE SALMER In my high school PE class, I was more concerned about holding hands with the opposite sex than I was about learning square dancing. I remember the first time we were invited to a square dance class. I was not anxious to take any kind of dancing, convinced I had two left feet, but I promised my husband that I would learn. Reluctant to make a fool of myself, I secretly hoped I would break a limb so I wouldn’t have to go. After going, I was surprised to find that I loved it. I felt comfortable because I wasn’t in a spotlight and expected to perform perfectly. There were other newbies, and that made it easier. Modern Western square dancing really is fun, and it’s a wonderful cardiovascular workout with all its spins, turns and moves. I guarantee that an evening spent square dancing will make you forget your problems as you listen to the caller and dance. My husband and I have danced with the Homewood “Shirts and Skirts” for six years, and we have made wonderful friends. Members range in age from 26-86, and we are made up of couples as well as singles from all walks of life. We dance on the second & fourth Saturday evenings at the Homewood Senior Center from 7 p.m. to 9:30 p.m. Come watch the class at the

82 YEARS BEHIND THE TIMES

Musical Instruments in great variety BUY-SELL-TRADE-REPAIR

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Inventory updated Daily|205.879.4868|hmi@scott.net

The Homewood Senior Center holds square dances on the second and fourth Saturday evenings of the month.

“Center” anytime for free, and we hope you’ll join us at our next set of lessons. For more information, contact Gary or Florence Salmer at salmerf@bellsouth.net or 428-2477.

HOMEWOOD

•

ALABAMA

877-8797

2913 18th Street South

By BILL TAYLOR, M.D.

Monday–Saturday 6:30am to 3pm www.salemsdiner.com

HOME OF THE PHILLY CHEESESTEAK

Dawson‛s Vacation Bible School Bill Taylor corpse of approximately 70 years arose on a slab from the tank. Sawyer called her “Zsa Zsa.” My knees felt like rubber and I immediately excused myself. A little seltzer and a swig of moonshine, and I was fortified for re-entry into the lab. That night at the boarding house we had stringy, dry roast beef, which brought back memories. As he passed the serving platter to me, Sawyer said, “Have a piece of Zsa Zsa.” I had approached gross anatomy with distress and fear. Sawyer’s morbid humor helped me make it through.

Monday-Friday

• Bible Stories • Games • Music • Crafts • Worship and lots of FUN!

June 4-8

9:00 a.m.-12 noon

Relay for Life at Homewod Park A night for survivors, a night for fun The 2012 Relay for Life Homewood event will be held April 27 at Homewood Central Park. The free event features activities and entertainment for all ages. “It’s a lot of fun for all ages, and it gives you something to do with your money instead of just giving it away,” said HHS senior and cancer survivor Olivia Benfield, who is a team captain and on the junior committee for the event. “It’s a great way to get people together.” Relay for Life is the American Cancer Society (ACS)’s biggest fundraiser, according to ACS Development Representative Kristin McDonald. Each participating team has an individual booth set up overnight with one person walking the track at a time to symbolize that cancer

HOMEWOOD MUSIC

A Senior Center life story I can still remember the day I was to leave for medical school. I had waited until the last minute to pack, as I was nearly frightened into denial of the approaching day. I couldn’t stand the sight of blood. I had fainted three times during my pre-med college years at the sight of blood. The last time was at the end of ROTC, in response to images of soldiers with open wounds in a war documentary. Maybe the wounds were simulated, but they looked real to me. It took four of the future soldiers to revive my un-simulated condition. On the train ride to the university, my pre-med classmate, John, ribbed me: “Remember in biology? You gave a blood sample from your finger, and it took the whole department to revive you!” What a kidder. I would soon discover that our lab partner, Sawyer, was one also. Gross anatomy sent chills through my spine. On day two in the cadaver lab, John, Sawyer and I met the woman we would study with for the next nine months. Our first assignment would be to deprive this woman of her skin. What?! Deprive her of her skin! How could I do that! Hmm. Four cups of black coffee plus smelling salts and perhaps I could work myself into this dissection. As we surrounded a square tank supported on wheels, a lever was pressed, and an elderly

| April 2012 |

never sleeps. “It’s really tiring and really cold as the crowd dwindles down,” Olivia said, “ but if you stay strong, it feels really awesome the next morning.” In the past, the Relay event has attracted about 500 people to participate and 1,000 people to attend. Festivities will begin at 4 p.m. The survivor lap starts at 6 p.m., and the luminaria ceremony starts at 9 p.m. During the ceremony, bags labeled with the names of cancer victims are filled with candles to line the track, and everyone takes a silent lap in their honor or memory. For more information or to register, visit www.relayforlife.org/homewood and follow @homewoodrfl on Twitter.

For Kids Age 4 (by Sept. 1, 2012)

through Grade 6 completed

Register Early Online at www.dawsonchurch.org Dawson Memorial Baptist Church 1114 Oxmoor Road • Birmingham, AL 35209 (205) 871-7324 • Prayer Line: (205) 795-PRAY

| April 2012 |

The Homewood Star

YOUR SKIN AWAITS 1

................... o

- introduces -

BRITTANY RIGSBY CERTIFIED REGISTERED NURSE PRACTITIONER

Easter sweet treats By ANNA CATE LITTLE Homewood bakeries offer up lots of choices for Easter dessert, Easter baskets or just an excuse for a sweet treat this holiday. Dreamcakes always offers goodies that are as pretty as they are palatable. Easter brings such unique confections as chocolate bird nests ($1.75), chocolate dipped marshmallows ($1.50), dipped strawberries ($1.75), and strawberryor lemon-filled sugar cookies ($2.75), in addition to their amazing cakes and cupcakes. The items in their expansive case are first-come, first-served; however, they prefer for special orders to be placed 24 to 48 hours in advance. Savage’s, Homewood’s premier scratch bakery, has been going strong for 73 years. Their slew of delectable Easter treats include iced bunny, duck and egg cookies ($1.20-$1.50); petit fours ($1.10); cupcakes ($1.40); egg-shaped petit four cakes ($4); and bunny-face cakes ($12.95). Everything is customizable; and while they prefer special orders to be placed one or more days in advance, they can usually accommodate last minute orders. Ditch the over-processed candy this year and make your child’s Easter basket extra special with Icing on the Cookie’s incredible iced sugar cookies. Choose from chicks, bunnies, eggs, carrots, lambs and crosses, bagged and tied with ribbon ($25). They also offer made-to-order brownies, cheese straws, rice krispies treats and caramel corn. All orders must be placed by April 2.

Chocolate bird nests from Dreamcakes. Photos by Anna Cate Little.

Cookies and cakes from Savage’s.

Iced cookies from Icing on the Cookie.

Easter Event Round-Up 2908 CENTRAL AVENUE, SUITE 150 • HOMEWOOD, AL 35209 205.871.7332 • WWW.SKINWELLNESSAL.COM

SWCA_HomewoodStar_march.indd 1

3/12/12 9:16 PM

All Saints Episcopal Church Thursday, April 5, 6:30 p.m. —Maundy Thursday Service Good Friday, April 6, 12 p.m. and 6:30 p.m. services Saturday, April 7, 7 p.m. —Easter Vigil Service Easter Sunday, April 8, 7:30 a.m., 9 a.m., 11 a.m. and 5:30 p.m. services Dawson Memorial Baptist Church Saturday, March 31, 11 a.m.-1 p.m.— Annual Easter Egg Hunt Palm Sunday, April 1 8:30 a.m. and 9:40 a.m. — Contemporary Worship Services 9:40 a.m. and 11 a.m. —Traditional Service 11 a.m. —Español Worship Thursday, April 5, 6:30 p.m.—Easter Week Communion Good Friday, April 6 2 p.m.—Way of the Cross, Homewood Park 7 p.m.—Hispanic Good Friday Service Easter Sunday, April 8 8:30 a.m. and 9:40 a.m— Contemporary Worship Services 9:40 a.m. and 11 a.m. —Traditional Service 11 a.m. —Español Worship Edgewood Presbyterian Church Palm Sunday, April 1, 9:30 a.m. service Thursday, April 5, 6:30 p.m.—Holy Thursday Communion Good Friday, April 6 12 p.m. — Solemn Reproaches of the Cross 2 p.m. —Way of the Cross, Homewood Park Easter Sunday, April 8, 9:30 a.m. — Celebration of the Resurrection

DEBORAH A. SEMA, D.M.D., M.S. SPECIALIST IN ORTHODONTICS

205-942-2270 www.ovortho.com

Braces for All Ages

First Baptist Church of Birmingham Good Friday, April 6, 6:30-9 p.m.—Passion Passover in the Fellowship Hall. Light snacks and The Passion of the Christ. Easter Sunday, April 8, 10:15 a.m.—Easter Service Oakmont Methodist Church Palm Sunday, April 1, 11 a.m. —Worship Service 6:30 p.m. —“New Leaf” Contemporary Service Monday-Wednesday, April 2-4, 7 a.m. — Prayer Breakfast Thursday, April 5, 7 p.m. — Maundy

Thursday Service Good Friday, April 6, 7 a.m.-7 p.m. — Church open for prayer Saturday, April 7, 11 a.m. — Children’s Easter Party and Egg Hunt Easter Sunday, April 8, 6:30 a.m. — Sunrise Service and Breakfast 11 a.m. — Worship Service Our Lady of Sorrows Catholic Church Thursday, April 5, 5 p.m. and 7 p.m. —Holy Thursday masses Good Friday, April 6, 12-2:20 p.m. — Seven Last Words 2:30 p.m. —Stations of the Cross 7 p.m. —Celebration of the Lord’s Passion Saturday, April 7, 8 pm. — Easter Vigil Mass Easter Sunday, April 8, 7 a.m., 8:30 a.m., 10 a.m., 11:30 a.m. and 6 p.m Mass Shades Valley Lutheran Church Holy Week Monday, April 2-Thursday, April 5, 11:30 a.m.-1 p.m. and 5-6:30 p.m.—Way of the Cross Monday, April 2 to Friday, April 6, 11:30 a.m.-1 p.m. and 5-6:30 p.m.—Prayer Labyrinth Thursday, April 5, 7 p.m.—Maundy Thursday Service Good Friday, April 6, 7 p.m.—Tenebrae Service Easter Sunday, April 8, 8:15 a.m. and 10:30 a.m.—Festival Worship Services in the Nave 9:15 a.m.—Easter Breakfast 10 a.m. — Egg Hunt for children up to 5th grade Trinity United Methodist Church Palm Sunday, April 1, 8:45 a.m. and 11 a.m. services 4 p.m. — Annual Spring Egg Hunt at McCallum Park in Vestavia. Ages 2second grade. 6 p.m. “Prayers Around the Cross” Taize Service Monday-Wednesday, April 2-4, 12 p.m. — Holy Week Noon Services Easter Sunday, April 8, 6:30 a.m. —Sunrise Service at Homewood Park 8:30 a.m., 9:45 a.m. and 11 a.m. — Traditional Worship 11:15 a.m. —CONTACT Worship

The Homewood Star

www.TheHomewoodStar.com

| April 2012 |

Homewood-based interior designer works nationwide started in 1999 when Connor was living in Charleston. In Charleston, she worked on many projects downtown and at several vacation home spots. One of her clients in Charleston had a house in Atlanta, which began her Atlanta travels. Ten years ago, Connor moved her business to Birmingham in English Village and then to its current location on Oxmoor Road in the summer of 2009. The Connors’ house in Homewood is a place for Connor to take a break from her work. “It’s fairly monochromatic: neutral with mostly antiques and comfortable upholstery,” Connor said. “Being around design and color at work all the time, I like it more peaceful and it’s nice to have a break from it at home. It neutralizes me.” Tammy Connor Interior Design is located at 1809 Oxmoor Road. You can reach the business at 871-9797 or visit www.tammyconnorid.com. To see more of Tammy Connor’s style and work, visit her blog at http://tammyconnorid.com/blog.

By CRAIG KLEIMEYER Tammy Connor grew up rearranging her room in as many ways as she could. Today she arranges homes for clients across the country from her business, Tammy Connor Interior Design, on Oxmoor Road. The apartment she is currently working on in New York City will soon be added to her list of completed projects: a cabin in Tennessee; an apartment in Chicago; and houses in Pennsylvania, Charlottesville, Virg., and Winter Park, Colo. Traditional Home magazine named Connor its New Traditional Designer 2012, and Tammy Connor Interior Design was recognized by Elle Décor as the “Blogger’s Choice” for up-and-comers to watch in 2012. “[Interior design] is a creative outlet for creative energy, and it’s always different,” Connor said. “No day and no client is the same. It’s fun to coordinate my opinion and theirs. I love being able to visualize something and make it happen, to see it in reality.” Connor particularly enjoyed working on the home of Philip Trammell Shutze’s house, the architect for the Swan House in Atlanta. His house, the Patterson-Carr house, has inviting garden accesses all around the property of several acres. Her ties with Shutze don’t stop there; the SE Chapter of the Institute of Classical Architecture awarded her with the Philip Trammell Award for Interior Design. Around Birmingham, Connor has worked with the Birmingham Country Club and a number of different residences. The Homewood native lives down the street from her childhood home with her husband, Geoff, an orthopedic surgeon, and their two kids, Charlotte and Sam. Connor brings her 13-year-old Springer Spaniel, Ella, to work with her almost every day. Tammy Connor Interior Design first

1982

Tammy’s Tips for Home Design ff Be true to yourself and your own style. ff Focus on quality and invest in things you can have long-term. ff Layer the old and new by putting antiques with unique items.

Interior designer Tammy Connor. Photo courtesy of Jean Allsopp.

2012

ff Create interiors that are inviting and really comfortable— beautiful pieces, but also comfortable ones.

Edgewood Creamery

Buy one scoop get one FREE or $5 OFF any cake order expiring 8-31-12

874-1999 • 936 Oxmoor Road

| April 2012 |

The Homewood Star

Red Mountain A Shining Star: Paige Wilcutt Park zip line to open April 14 By ASHLEY BERKERY

Red Mountain Park’s zip line adventure is scheduled to open Saturday, April 14. Tickets can be purchased online at www.redmountainpark.org starting in early April. The park opened its 10 miles of trails and 1,200 acres to the public in March. The temporary entrance to the park is right off Lakeshore Parkway at the end of Frankfurt Drive, just outside Homewood City limits. The park holds hikes the third Sunday of every month at 2 p.m. to introduce guests to what the park has to offer. Visitors should park in the Frankfurt Drive cul-de-sac; a temporary parking lot will be constructed soon. The park is open seven days a week during daylight hours. Maps and trail signs are available. Additional amenities will open later.

Lions Club holds Pecan Sale The Homewood Metro Lions Club will hold its semiannual Camilla Pecan sale fundraiser on Thursday, April 5 in front of the Piggly Wiggly on Montgomery Highway. An $8 donation is requested for each 12-oz. bag of The Camilla Pecans . All profits will go toward Alabama Lions Sight Association, which provides eye care to indigent individuals; Camp Seale Harris for diabetic children; EastWest All Star Baseball games; Leader Dog for The Blind; Southeastern Guide Dog, Alabama Lions Eyeglasses Recycling Program; Alabama Lions Hearing Aid Recycling Program; and Homewood Elementary Schools and community projects. For additional information, please contact President Max Herzel at 871-5125.

Communities like Homewood thrive when people like Paige Wilcutt live here. As a part time accountant, spin instructor, school treasurer, room mother, Brownie leader, and neighborhood advocate and watch chairperson, believe it or not, Paige has also recently taken to sewing for her daughter, Ellie, in her spare time. A University of Alabama graduate, Wilcutt has lived in Homewood since 1993, where she has since met her husband, Mitch, and started her family. She works three days a week at Mountain Brook’s Emmet O’Neal Library where she handles the foundation’s accounting. Wilcutt is PTO Treasurer at Edgewood Elementary School, where her daughter is in third grade. She was Assistant Treasurer last year, and is busy ensuring all aspects of Edgewood’s finances are on track and beneficial for the students. (At the time of our interview at Hart & Soul, she was even taking receipts from another mom for a DARE ice-cream party). Wilcutt, along with several coleaders, is due credit for bringing the Girls on the Run program to Homewood. Girls on the Run is a program for third to fifth grade girls that teaches good self-body image, healthy eating habits, and the importance of exercise. She read about it in 2009 and contacted the woman in Virginia who was integral in starting the program, and who ironically ended up moving to Birmingham and starting the program in Mt. Brook and Woodlawn. “It’s important that these girls learn early on not to compare themselves to unrealistic images in magazines,” Wilcutt said. “Girls on the Run meets two times a week at Homewood Park to practice running, and May 12 they will participate in a 5K at the YMCA downtown with their adult running buddy.” A leader of Brownie Troop 217, Paige and the other troop moms set yearly, age-appropriate goals for the girls to get involved with their community and leadership projects. Over Halloween and Christmas the girls make goody bags and cards for patients at Children’s Hospital. “The Children’s Hospital project was actually the girls’ idea, and although they aren’t allowed to visit the children in person because of their age, they were adamant about making gifts and cards for them,” Paige said. Last year they did get to visit the children of First Light, a local women’s and children’s shelter. “It really

Come see what is Haute for Spring

Luncheon & Fashion Show begin at 11:30am

May 9 th at Park Lane

205-871-3779 32 Vine Street Mountain Brook, Alabama 35213

For more details or to purchase tickets please go to the chamber website welcometomountainbrook.com

Paige Wilcutt and her daughter, Ellie. touched them,” she said. “Ellie even remembered one girl’s birthday was this past February and sent her a birthday card.” Already in 2012 the troop has hiked Oak Mountain with Jim Brown from Samford, assisted with Shades Creek clean-up efforts and the Catherine Sims garden, and has been on a canoe trip with the Cahaba River Society. On a political level, Paige constantly contacts her school board members and city and state representatives to ensure that the school and community are getting what it needs to succeed. She stays in touch with Sergeant Doug Finch about sex offenders who live nearby to ensure the safety of our children, and even spoke with former Alabama Attorney General Troy King about the issue.. “Homewood is such a great place to live and raise a family,” Wilcutt said. “I feel obligated to keep it that way, and although I will do my best to make sure our kids have the best education and way of life possible, I will also strive to teach them that serving others and giving back is a top priority.”

Sponsored by

The Homewood Star

www.TheHomewoodStar.com

| April 2012 |

Fashion Spotlight By BLAKE RHODES

Spring into Homewood fashions As the weather heats up, you can find all the hottest spring trends in downtown Homewood. I found two cool casual weekend looks at the Pink Tulip, including

The Doctor will see you Now!

a must-have pair of colorful wedges! Bold prints, pastels and mini dresses are among this season’s styles. Doree also offers all of these and more.

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Monday - Friday 8am-8pm • Saturday 8am-6pm • Sunday 1pm - 6pm

Layer this feminine peach top ($38) from The Pink Tulip over a stretch camisole ($20, comes in a variety of colors).

This red, black and pink color-block ponte dress by Laundry ($245) from Doree pairs well with a gold necklace ($35).

MedHelp 280 Inverness area In front of Target Center 4600 Highway 280 East (205) 408.1231

MedHelp Lakeshore Homewood area, Just off I-65 @ Lakeshore Drive exit One West Lakeshore Drive (205) 930.2950

We’re serious about being happy. New Happy Hours 4:00 to 7:00 Daily $2.00 Mix and match a chartreuse silk top with split sleeves ($165), white jeans by AG ($164) and a flirty pink necklace ($35) from Doree into your spring wardrobe.

Accessorize this coral top with cuffed short sleeves ($39) and paper bag-style shorts ($39) with a variegated seed pearl 56-inch necklace that is great for wrapping ($26)—all from The Pink Tulip.

Select Happy Hour Menu $2.75 Well Brands $2.50 Imports $2.00 Domestics

SOHO SQUARE • HOMEWOOD

FREE VALET & UNDERGROUND PARKING www.lovoys.com • 205.870.9811 Serving Dinner Six Nights a Week A funky gold necklace ($40) complements a white lace shift by Laundry ($265), both from Doree.

These colorful wedges with toe and ankle straps are $42 at The Pink Tulip.

| April 2012 | Park and Recreation

HOMEWOOD PARKS & RECREATION

Homewood Community Center Activities Kid’s Yoga with Kelly Creel!

Young Rembrandts

Cost: $20 per month (4-5 classes per month). Class oﬀerings: Tuesday afternoons, 3:30 - 4:15pm. For more information please email Kelly Creel at trinityk73@hotmail.com or call 529-9360

Draw amazing things with Young Rembrandts! We believe that drawing is a skill that can, and should be, learned by all children. Young Rembrandts classes are both fun and educational, and our step-by-step curriculum is developed to teach fundamental art skills in a nurturing environment that gives children an academic advantage. Our weekly classes are for boys and girls 5 to 12 years of age. Class will be held at the Homewood Community Center. Enroll anytime; all new lessons each session and each year. Please contact Chris Roberson at 943-1923 for more information or to register.

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

Belly Dancing with Aziza

Jazzercise

Burn up to 600 calories in one fun and powerfully effective, 60-minute total body workout. Every Jazzercise group fitness class combines dance-based cardio with strength training and stretching to sculpt, tone and lengthen muscles for maximum fat burn. Choreographed to today’s hottest music, Jazzercise is a fusion of jazz dance, resistance training, Pilates, yoga, hiphop, and kickboxing. Start dancing yourself fit and change the shape of your body today! All ages, levels and sizes welcome. Go to: www.jazzercise.com for class information or call 1-800-FIT-IS-IT Call your Homewood class owner, Beth Gilbert at 205-966-9893 for class days and times. The original dance fitness program, Jazzercise!

Karate

Classes will be held on Mondays and Wednesdays at the Homewood Community Center from 4:00 pm – 5:00 pm 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.

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. www.firmbodybootcamps.com

Athletics

Homewood Youth Cheerleading

HYC are a dynamic group of girls who are excited to cheer for the Homewood Youth Football League. HYC is a community cheerleading program for girls in grades 1st through 6th who live in Homewood and/ or attend Homewood Schools. The girls are organized into 5 squads by grade level - 1st & 2nd grades cheer together, 3rd, 4th, 5th and 6th grades have individual squads. Please visit our website for more information: www.homewoodyouthcheerleading.com

Men’s Summer Adult Basketball League

An organizational meeting will be held on Wednesday, May 2nd at 7:00 p.m. at the Homewood Community Center in room 100. All participants must be 19 years or older. All games will be played at the Homewood Community Center Gym on Wednesdays or Thursdays beginning in early June. The minimum number of teams is 7, maximum number is 10. Fee includes oﬃcials, scorekeepers, trophies and tournaments. The fee per team is $400. Contact Linda Sellers at 332-6706 for more information.

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

Hatha Yoga

What is Hatha Yoga? Hatha Yoga is the practice of physical yoga postures completed in a gentle ﬂow along with breathing techniques. Classes: Tuesdays & Thursdays - 8:00AM to 9:00AM Location: Homewood Community Center - Room 100 Instructor: Jessica Bell 678-907-3188 (or) jessica.bell018@gmail.com Please bring a yoga mat for your personal use

Homewood Senior Center Volunteer Computer Tutors Needed

Homewood Senior Center is seeking computer proficient volunteers to tutor members one-on-one. Tutoring sessions will be by appointment to fit the tutee’s and tutor’s schedules. We get requests from seniors to tutor them on basic computer use, internet use, and use of specific programs. Days/hours of operation: Monday-Thursday, 6:30am-9:00pm; Friday, 6:30-10:00pm; Saturday, 10:00am-10:00pm. We receive more requests for computer tutoring than we can accommodate with our limited staffing. If you can volunteer even just one day a week, please contact Center Director Aimee Thornton (3326502 or aimee.thornton@homewoodal.org).

Email List & Special Program Announcements

Currently, the Senior Center is not mailing a monthly programs calendar. The calendar can be viewed on the Senior Center page of the website: www.homewoodparks.com. If you wish to be notiﬁed by email of the Senior Center’s special events, new program additions, and events open to the general public, please send a message expressing this to Center Director Aimee Thornton (aimee.thornton@ homewoodal.org). Printed copies of the programs calendar are available in the lobbies of the Senior Center and the Homewood Community Center.

Senior Chorus

Homewood Senior Center will introduce a new program in April: Senior Chorus. We are seeking a pianist to accompany the vocal director. Interested persons should contact Activities Coordinator Dottie Anderson 205-332-6501 or dottie.anderson@homewoodal.org. Date and time of this ongoing program is yet to be determined.

Summer Information Swim Lessons

Swim Lessons Sign-Up begins Wednesday April 18th at the Homewood Community Center Main Oﬃce. We oﬀer beginners and intermediate classes. There are four 2 week sessions to choose from: June 4th – 15th, June 18th – 29th, July 2nd – 13th and July 16th – 27th. Cost is $25 per child for Homewood Residents, $50 NonResidents. For more information please contact Linda Sellers at 332-6706.

Pool Memberships

Pool badges go on sale Monday, May 7th in the 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.

Homewood Swim Team It is not a learn to swim program but no experience is necessary. Swimmers compete against other swimmers with the same age and times during the meets. A pre-competitive program (GUPPY) is available for kids that can but are not quite ready to compete, ages 8 and under. They must be able to swim across the pool. Children who are ready to compete, ages 5 – 18, will be divided into groups- older (more experienced) and younger (less experienced) at the Central Homewood Pool. We compete through the Jeﬀerson County Swim League (JCSC) against other teams from our area. Registration begins May 5th at We Love Homewood Day and runs through late May. JCSC fees will be assessed at a later date. Practices are Monday through Friday 8am – 10am, speciﬁc times will vary depending on the age of the child. For additional information call Brook Gibbons at 401-9656

Pool Parties

We will begin booking pool parties on Monday, May 7th. They can be reserved for the dates June 3rd - August 5th. Pool parties are booked at Homewood Community Center Main Oﬃce.

2012 Summer Camp & AfterCare Camp Dates: June 4th – July 27th Ages: 4-12

Registration Procedure

Returning 2011 Summer Campers: Return

registration form and payment to Homewood Community Center Main Oﬃce from April 9th – April 20th, 2012. 8:00am5:30pm; Monday thru Friday.

Homewood Residents not enlisted in Summer Camp 2011*: Registration forms must be mailed in with payment. Cannot be postmarked before April 22, 2012

Non-Homewood Residents*: Registration forms must be mailed in with payment. Cannot be postmarked before April 29, 2012 * Mail in registration forms MAY NOT be brought into Park Oﬃce in a stamped envelope. They must be received via mail carrier and postmarked with the appropriate date. * Mail in registrations must contain payment in full for Summer Camp and AfterCare (if applicable) should be included via check or money order to HOMEWOOD PARK. Should payment not be included, registration will be deemed incomplete and not accepted for consideration.

Camp Fee (9:00am – 2:00pm)

$250 for Homewood Residents; $25 discount per additional child $500 for Non-Homewood Residents; no additional child discount AfterCare Fee (2:00pm – 5:30pm) <Limited to ﬁrst 60 campers registered> Must be enrolled in Summer Camp to attend AfterCare $200 for Homewood Residents; no additional child discount $400 for Non-Homewood Residents; no additional child discount Registration forms can be picked up at the Community Center Main Oﬃce beginning April 2nd.

www.Homewoodparks.com

@homewoodparks

The Homewood Star | April 2012 |

www.TheHomewoodStar.com

Ordinary Days Celebrations of faith By LAUREN DENTON Two significant holidays in the Christian and Jewish faiths happen this month, and I had the privilege of celebrating both as I grew up. I’ve been a Christian for most of my life, but I’m grateful for the experiences I received as a result of growing up with extended family members who celebrated Passover instead of Easter. However, growing up with one Christian parent and one Jewish parent made for some awkward moments through the years. We didn’t go to the temple for every Jewish holiday, but we always went when my grandfather blew the shofar on Rosh Hashanah as well as for Passover. Although many of the sights and sounds of the Passover Seder were familiar to me, such as putting out a glass of wine for Elijah and hiding the matzoh, some weren’t so familiar. I remember the Seder meal when I first tried the veggies and salt water, which represented the tears of the Jewish people when they were slaves in Egypt. I looked at my mom in panic, and she said, “Just try it.” So I grabbed some parsley and dipped it into the little dish of salt water like everyone else. Suffice it to say I couldn’t get it down, and I still wonder what the cleaning crew thought when they found the white linen napkin on the floor with a little blob of wet parsley inside. After the first decade or so of my life, we went to the temple for Jewish holidays less and less. My dad converted to Christianity when I was in middle school, and all our celebrations revolved around the Christian calendar. However, we still had a Passover Seder at our house now and then for friends and family, both to remember what the Jewish people went through and to celebrate my dad’s heritage. Other than a wedding or two, I haven’t been in a temple since those days of panicking at the thought of eating salt water-dipped parsley. Maybe that’s why I jumped at the chance when I was asked to attend a Seder

dinner at the home of a family friend several years ago. When I entered the home of the family hosting the dinner, I remember receiving some curious glances. There was even a bit of whispering at my expense, but I assumed it was because I was the only non-family member there. Undaunted, I forged ahead, moving my lips as everyone recited the blessings, eating the matzoh, and dipping where and when I was supposed to (and yes, swallowing the parsley). Later in the night, I learned what the whispers and glances had been about. One of the women pulled me aside after dinner and said that their synagogue was always having dinners that “the young people” went to, and she just knew her son would love to take me to one. Then she promptly pulled his photo out of her purse to show me. She looked so hopeful that I’d be the dear Jewish daughter-in-law that she’d been waiting for, so I tried to let her down lightly. I told her that I appreciated the offer, and then explained that I didn’t actually attend the synagogue since I was a Christian. I could see the news spread like wildfire among the women once she walked back into the kitchen to divulge her morsel of gossip. As I think back, I smile when I remember the Passovers when my Aunt Susan would sneak in and drink the wine left for Elijah, when the kids would shriek with glee when we found the matzoh hidden in a napkin, and when I first experienced the burn of the horseradish on my tongue. I also have a lifetime of Easter (or Resurrection Day, as my mom calls it) celebrations to remember. I’m thankful for the different ways my family has celebrated over the years, and that regardless of the different faiths, we can all say together Baruch atah Adonai, eloheynu melech ha-olam. Blessed are you, our God, King of the Universe. Lauren can be reached at LaurenKDenton@ gmail.com.

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Homewood area camps By CRAIG KLEIMEYER We rounded up fun kids’ camps that are right near your home. Visit www. thehomewoodstar.com for camp listings all over Birmingham. LatinSummer Birmingham Camps Sponsored by Ascanius, LatinSummer is a two-week summer enrichment program that provides students in grades two through seven a unique chance to learn about Latin and the classical world at Samford. No prior knowledge of Latin or Classics is required. The dates of the camp are July 16-27 on weekdays from 9 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Cost per student is $250. A T-shirt is included. To register, visit www. ascaniusyci.org/birmingham. Deadline to register is May 15. Casey Dunn Summer Baseball Camps Join some of the Samford University baseball players, other coaches, and the Samford baseball staff to become a better baseball player. Camp is open for kindergarten through twelfth grade and is held at Samford University. Youth camps are June 18-21, June 25-28, July 9-12 and July 23-26, and the High School Spotlight Camp is July 16-18. For more information, call 726-4294 or visit http:// samfordbaseballcamps.com. Music Camps at Samford If you are in first through twelfth grades, you can study piano or voice intensely for a week this summer at Samford University. Adventures in Music Camp includes private lessons, guest

artists, recitals, lunch and more. Camp dates are June 18-22 for the first session and July 9-13 for the second session. Children get an introduction to music this summer from July 16-20. All Aboard for Music Camp helps preschoolers understand and learn about movement and instruments. Camp also includes crafts, recreation and guest artists. Ages 3-6 can attend as long as they have not attended first grade. For more information, call 726-4049 or visit http://arts.samford.edu/prep_ music/. Birmingham Zoo Camps The Birmingham Zoo offers half and whole day camps throughout the summer for children ages 4K through eighth grade. Brand new camps for the year include Top Chef, Animal Style, Jr., Z.S.I. (Zoo Scene Investigator), Dirty Jobs, Nature Explorers, and Mommy and Me (two-hour camp). Classic favorites such as Art, ZooKeeper and African Safari are back. For more information and to register online, call 3973887 or visit www.birminghamzoo.com/ education/camps/summer-camps. Birmingham Botanical Gardens Camps Choose from a variety of different topics including nature and the outdoors, plants and our environment, cooking, art and more. Camps are offered for ages 4 through the six grade. Pre-registration is required. Camps are weekly from May 29July 27.

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| April 2012 |

Restaurant Showcase

Edgewood Catering/What’s 4 Supper |

By ANNA CATE LITTLE

2900 Crescent Avenue 868-0888 www.edgewoodcatering.com Mon.-Thurs., 12-5:30 p.m. Fri., 12-4 p.m.

Pharmaceutical sales don’t usually conjure up images of food, but for Kelly and Rob Bright, it was their meal ticket, so to speak. In 2003, when pharmaceutical reps were luring in doctors by way of catered, in-office lunches, the Brights found their livelihood emerging from their very own kitchen. They knew they liked to cook and must have been pretty good at it, because at a moment’s notice they agreed to cater a 25-person lunch for a drug-rep neighbor and friend. The chicken tetrazzini was a hit, and from there the calls started rolling in. “We did that lunch, and our business exploded,” recalled Rob. “She called back. Other reps called. Even the doctor’s offices started asking for our food.” Some preliminary research on Rob’s part

What’s 4 Supper Poppyseed Chicken Casserole.

(KEITH- Photos coming later) Rob and Kelly Bright started Edgewood Catering in 2003. Photos by Anna Cate Little.

concluded that the reps wanted three things: payment with American Express, quality food and on-time delivery. And with that, The Edgewood Catering Company was born. But catering lunches from their Edgewood Boulevard home (where they were raising three kids, as well) was only the beginning. People wanted more. They wanted to share these incredible meals with their families, and requests for this and that did not go unheard. Rob and Kelly extended their business to offer pickup meals that people could take home. But the calls and knocks at the door became too much to handle, and they found themselves having to turn down business. “Our business was in our home turned into our home was in our business,” said Rob. It was time to find a storefront, and they eventually landed in their current location on Crescent Avenue. In 2007, they opened the doors to their catering company that also housed What’s 4 Supper pickup meals.

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With the downturn in the economy came a cutback on catering budgets, but luckily the Brights had found a niche in providing incredibly fresh, tasteful meals that can be ordered ahead or simply plucked from their fridge in the store. The menu changes weekly, with the exception of baked ziti that is always offered, due to popular demand. The winter brings seasonal soups while summertime evokes colorful salads. Rob has perfected a number of casseroles, marinated meats and sides, while Kelly’s baked goodies will knock your socks off. And the yeast rolls, well, they’re heavenly. For holidays, or any special occasion, the company will complete the entire meal package. Easter, for example, will feature a menu of honey-glazed spiral sliced ham, pineapple casserole, green beans, hash brown casserole, yeast rolls and carrot cake. Pick and choose from the menu or simply bring the entire meal home. As for the catering side, they are

rebuilding a strong base of corporate clients, and happily find themselves operating about 50/50 catering versus pickup meals. “And we still get new people coming in every week,” said Kelly. It’s apparent that what keeps Kelly and Rob going strong in their 19-year marriage and nine-year-old business is both a foundation rooted in their strong Christian faith and a loyal customer base. “I would like for it to be stated that this would not work without her,” said Rob of his wife and business partner. Those loyal customers are often asking the Brights if they will ever open a restaurant, but the answer is no. “The concept is to take it home and eat it at home,” said Kelly. “You know, home-cooked food that you didn’t have to cook, but it tastes like you did.” “We can even say that we’re promoting eating together at the table,” said Rob with a laugh, while Kelly adds, “Yes! We’re promoting family!”

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Business Spotlight

The Maids

Business Spotlight 2715 18th Place South 871-9338 www.maids.com Kathy Senseman is a Registered Dietician. Her husband, David, worked in medical sales. But since 1987 they have been in the business of keeping homes clean and healthy. “You just never know where professional life will take you,” Kathy said. “We were looking to have our own business, and this one seemed to be one with opportunities.” After purchasing the Homewood franchise of The Maids in 1987, their business expanded in the 1990s. Today Kathy and David own and manage four franchises: Homewood, Birmingham, Huntsville and Roswell, Ga. “It never dawned on me that we would end up with friends all over the

Kathy and David Senseman own Homewood The Maids franchise. Photo by Craig Kleimeyer.

The Maids serve chili in an aptly fashioned pot and ladle at the Exceptional Foundation Chili Cookoff in March. Photo by Madoline Markham.

country,” Kathy said. “It’s a great support system.” 2012 marks the 25th anniversary of their Homewood operations. One employee, Terrie Price, has been there since the beginning. “Terrie was here before we were,” Kathy said. The company’s goals involve more than just quality, guaranteed cleaning centered on the customer. “The employees are all those things

they are supposed to be,” Kathy said. “They really care about our customers.” The maids are trained for one of four functions—kitchen, dusting, vaccuuming or bathrooms—and the team cleans the house by section. Clients post comments and reviews on The Maids’ website all the time, testifying to the company’s hard work and success. “Our business would not be what it is today without our employees and our customers,” Kathy said. “It is a lot of fun

| April 2012 |

By CRAIG KLEIMEYER

dealing with them.” It’s also important to the Sensemans that they give back to the community. Through the nation-wide Cleaning for a Reason program, they provide monthly cleanings for four months at no charge for women who are undergoing treatment for cancer. They provide this service to two customers per month. The Maids customer service team won the judges award in the Exceptional Foundation Chili Cook Off in 2011. “They get there real bright and early in the morning and have a lot of fun with it,” Kathy said. The Maids’ giving spirit carries over to their signature yellow cars as well, which boast Breast Cancer Research Foundation Alabama license plates. “Because we are an all women-based company, we put some focus on women’s diseases,” Kathy said. In fact, it’s good health that is at the heart of their mission. “We clean to make our houses healthier as much as we do to make them look good,” Kathy said. The Maids’ own environmentally friendly cleaning products and HEPA filtration vacuum cleaners are great for people with asthma, allergies or other breathing problems. Also, the company does not use ammonia-based or bleach products, and they do not use feather dusters, which stir up dust and allergens into the air that we breathe. The profits from being a great maid service with employees that have fun with their jobs, according to Kathy. “We try to take life in stride around here. The most important thing for us as a company is that we deliver what we promise, and we really do that.”

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No representation is made that the quality of dental services to be performed is greater than the quality of dental services performed by other dentists.

| April 2012 |

Homewood Sports

Brother and sister bond on the golf course By CRAIG KLEIMEYER For Homewood Middle School seventh grader Ben Harris, sometimes it is more fun to golf with his older sister Aubrey than with his friends. This is the first and only season Ben and HHS senior Aubrey are both representing Homewood schools in golf. Ben made the middle school boys golf team of 10 players, and Aubrey helped make school history last season by going to sub-state with the golf team. Aubrey learns from her brother, even though he is five years younger. “I helped him when he started to play, but now he helps me,” she said. “He is dedicated to going to the lessons, and he will teach me what he has learned after each one.” Last year at sub-state, Aubrey was two strokes away from making it to state as an individual golfer, and she is determined to make it this season. Ben will start off his season as the number five golfer on the team. Aubrey and Ben signed a contract together that says they will try to practice every day and work hard during the season to accomplish their goals. Aubrey and Ben’s mom, Paula, explained their brother-sister bond. “They listen to one another’s instruction,” she said, “and there is a respect that they give each other when they play that you don’t always see at home.” Ben and Aubrey practice at the Robert Trent Jones Trail at Oxmoor Valley, where they also work with Neil Thompson. Neil, previously a professional golfer, started coaching Ben when he was eight years old and has coached Aubrey since she was in fifth grade. Ben and Aubrey both said their dad Edwin got them interested in playing golf. “My dad showed me how to play, and I

Red Balloon Sale Saturday April 28th! 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!!!

Homewood Middle School seventh grader Ben Harris and sister, Homewood High School senior Aubrey Harris, will golf together for Homewood schools this season. Photo courtesy of Paula Harris.

liked it and kept playing,” Ben said. “I’m a little more serious about it than he is though.” Aubrey said her dad took her to practice with him, and she loved it. When Aubrey was in fifth grade, Neil Thompson suggested that she golf in a program called Girl’s Golf LPGA, which she did from the spring until the end of the summer every year. Ben also plays football, basketball and a little baseball, and Aubrey has also played tennis, but they both like to focus on golf. Ben said he feels relaxed at the

golf course, and Aubrey said she loves the scenery. “I’ve seen turkeys, rabbits and turtles,” Aubrey said. “I like being in the environment and outside.” Aubrey added that the game teaches you to be patient and to not get frustrated with yourself. Out of all of the professional golfers, Rickie Fowler is the most inspiring to Ben. “I want to play in high school and get a scholarship, and my dream is to go pro.” Aubrey said it would be fun to golf wherever she goes to college, but right now she is still deciding where to go in the fall.

WALK MS

CONTINUED from page 1 often disabling disease of the central nervous system that interrupts the flow of information within the brain, and between the brain and body. Symptoms range from numbness and tingling to blindness and paralysis. Most people with MS are diagnosed between the ages of 20 and 50, with at least two to three times more women than men being diagnosed with the disease. Treatment is improving because of the focused work by the MS society, but the road for those like Meridith is still not a smooth one. She said there are some days she doesn’t want to get out of bed, but she pushes through that. “I’m more aware of exercise, and nutrition,” Meridith said. “Discovering I had MS was a wakeup call. We sometimes take our bodies for granted.” Meridith knows in the future there may be days when she can’t get up and said it’s hard knowing that her body isn’t functioning like it should. One of the hardest things about the disease is that she thinks her father feels somehow responsible, because it was his father who had MS in the late 60s and 70s.

“But this disease is no one’s fault,” she said firmly. Indeed, there are so many unknowns about MS, which is why it’s so important to keep raising money for research so that more can be learned about causes and therapies. Meridith is upbeat about the future. She earned a bachelor’s degree in business from the University of Phoenix, and her goal is to take advantage of management opportunities at Blue Cross, where she has worked for nine years. “I also hope to slow down enough to get married and have kids one day,” she said. The Alabama-Mississippi Chapter of the MS Society provides programs and services to more than 6,000 people in both states who are living with MS. Some of their programs and services include financial assistance, educational programs, college scholarships, family day programs, and a children’s camp. Funding for the programs and services are generated through events such as Walk MS, Evening of Wines, The Stand Against MS, Bike MS, MS Leadership Class and donations.

Walk MS 2012 at Homewood Central Park 930 Oxmoor Road www.homewoodantiques.com (205)414-9945

The Alabama-Mississippi Chapter of the National Multiple Sclerosis (MS) Society will hold its Walk MS on Saturday, April 14 in Homewood’s Central Park. Check-in opens at 8 a.m., and the walk begins at 9 a.m.—rain or shine. There is a one-, two- or three-mile route option for all participants. After

the walk, the celebration will continue at Central Park with refreshments, awards, announcements and entertainment. For more information, visit www. walkMS.org or call the Alabama-Mississippi Chapter of the National Multiple Sclerosis Society at 800- FIGHT MS.

Homewood Sports

www.TheHomewoodStar.com

| April 2012 |

Homewood Sports

Homewood Youth Cheer kicks off 2012 season

Girls on the Run Back Row: Sarah Parker Lowery, Kelly Lowery (Coach), Seona Long, Dallie Kate Darnell, Sarah Beaube, Anna Stephens, Paige Willcutt (Assistant Coach), Rachel Mau, Catherine Owen (Coach). Not pictured: Emily Lambert (Assistant Coach). Front row: Sarah Jackson Rutledge, Mary Callen Darnell, Claire Lambert, Isabel David, Maggie Stana, Ellie Willcutt, Alyssa Elliot, Isabella Kirkpatrick, McKenzie Prim. Photo by Craig Kleimeyer.

By CRAIG KLEIMEYER

Homewood Youth Cheerleaders at clinic at HMS. Serena Hyde, Liza Spencer (HHS head varsity cheerleader), Isabella Kimbrell, Ginger Hyde (HYC fourth grade coach), Abby Hendon, Emma Standard, Donna Hendon (HYC fourth grade coach), Johnna Gray, and Megan McClung (HHS varsity cheerleader). Photo courtesy of Julie Foster.

Homewood Youth Cheerleading has kicked off the 2012 cheer season with the announcement of their 2012 HYC Board Members, Julie Foster (president), Gina Stokes (vice president), Sara Jennings (treasurer), Donna Hendon (secretary), Apryl Crosswy (6th grade team parent), Ginger Hyde (5th grade coach), Teresa

Wilson (4th grade coach), Danielle Decker (3rd grade coach), and Liz Studinka (1st/2nd grade coach). The 2012 cheer season registration starts April 9th and closes May 20th. Please go to www. homewoodyouthcheer.com for more information and to register online.

A team of third to fifth grade girls have been meeting at the Homewood Parks and Recreation Center on Mondays and Thursdays to run and learn about self-respect and making healthy choices. This team is part of the Girls on the Run of Birmingham program, which has 11 teams and 155 girls participating at different schools and community centers. A group of 15 meets for Girls on the Run at Shades Cahaba Elementary as well. This is the first year that GOTR has been in Birmingham, or anywhere in Alabama. “The program was started by Molly Barker in Charlotte, N.C.,” Executive Director for GOTR of Birmingham Catherine Gregory said. “She wrote the curriculum to keep girls out of the ‘girl box,’ a place where they start paying attention to messages around them from

media and peers instead of being true to their own creative and fabulous selves.” At a GOTR practice, the coaches circle up the team and let the girls know the topic of the day. “During the workout, the girls run laps in conjunction with an activity or game that is related to the topic that day,” Gregory said. “We then stretch and process what just happened, what they learned, noticed, and experienced.” At the end of the practices, Gregory said they stretch and close with “energy awards,” or cheers, for girls who displayed GOTR behaviors at practice. On Saturday, May 12, the girls will all participate in the Girls on the Run 5k race. Visit girlsontherunbham.org for more information about Girls on the Run of Birmingham.

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| April 2012 | School House

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Edgewood teacher Christen Sloderbeck.

Shades Cahaba students paint bowls for the hungry

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Rebecca Smith’s fourth grade class showed compassion to the hungry in our area by painting bowls for the Empty Bowl Project benefitting Magic City Harvest. Magic City Harvest coordinates getting leftover food from local restaurants, grocery stores and even schools and delivers the food to shelters in the Birmingham area. The bowls the students painted will be sold, along with a delicious bowl of soup later on this month.

Children’s author visit

Hall-Kent students met author Carmen Agra Deedy.

Hall-Kent and OLS students were able to learn a lot about what it is like to be a writer and storyteller during a visit by Agra Deedy, who has been writing for children for over two decades. She was

born in Havana, Cuba, and came to the U.S. as a refugee. She was able to come and share her experiences as an author, and one class from Hall-Kent did a readers’ theater presentation for her.

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Students from Our Lady of Sorrows Catholic School pose for a picture with award-winning children’s author and storyteller Carmen Agra Deedy.

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Regions donates to HCS’s The Movement

| April 2012 |

Edgewood Ambassadors

Students try out the new bikes from Regions Bank.

Homewood City Schools’ Wellness Program, The Movement, will be able to move even more thanks to Regions Bank. Regions donated five bikes and helmets to The Movement. “Every day at Regions we work to fulfill our promise to ‘make life better’ for our customers, our associates and our community,” said Bill Horton, North Central Alabama Area President of Regions Bank. “We proudly act again on that promise by helping Homewood’s wellness

program improve the lives of their students and teachers by being more active.” HCS has created an environment that encourages lifetime fitness. The Movement is designed to change the way students and staff members think about health and wellness. Its purpose is to create a culture change in an effort to better address the challenges of obesity, hypertension, high cholesterol, stress, cardiovascular disease and other related illnesses.

Executive Assistant J.J. Bischoff and Mayor Scott McBrayer with Edgewood Ambassadors

Fifteen Edgewood Elementary School fifth graders were selected to serve as role models and leaders for their school. During the fall the students, along with Edgewood’s school counselor Dawn Wolfe, worked on leadership qualities and skills they could use to serve as good Edgewood Ambassadors. They invited Homewood Mayor Scott McBrayer and Executive Assistant J.J. Bischoff to breakfast

and asked them important questions about their jobs. Mayor McBrayer told the students he was proud of them for getting involved and encouraged them to continue to make good choices. He was so impressed with the students’ knowledge and questions that he invited them to visit him at City Hall to meet other city leaders.

National Merit and National Achievement Scholarship finalists Edgewood holds Talent Show HHS students Carly Galbraith, Julia Kendrick, Emily McDuff and Caleb Weaver were named National Merit Finalists. The PSAT taken junior year served as the initial screen of more than 1.5 million entrants to the 2012 National Merit Program. These students were selected among 16,000 semifinalists, the highest scorers in each state and represent less than one percent of each state’s high school seniors. There were 214 Semifinalists in the state of Alabama. In addition, Charlotte Gilliland, Chris Schiller, Smita Speer and Dylan Westfall were named National Merit Commended. Lin Kabachia and Smita Speer were chosen as two of the Alabama public school students named as finalists in the 48th

annual National Achievement Scholarship Program for scholastically talented Black American high school seniors. They were selected among 1,600 semifinalists and are eligible to compete for approximately 800 scholarships worth over $2.4 million. To advance to the National Merit or National Achievement finalist level of the competition, semifinalists had to submit a substantial amount of information and fulfill additional requirements. Each finalist must present an outstanding academic record; be endorsed and recommended by a school official; earn an SAT score that confirmed the qualifying test performance; and provide an essay describing activities, interests, and goals.

Shades Cahaba Festival The community came out to enjoy fun for the whole family at Shades Cahaba Elementary School’s annual Winter Festival. As the school’s only fundraiser, the money raised from the event provides grant money to fulfill academic enhancement requests from the teachers. This year’s festival included rides, a silent auction, bake sale, raffle prizes and many exciting games. This year participants were able to try out the new Minute To Win It game room and the Mystery Door. Back by popular demand this year was the Girly Girl Salon and Walk the Plank Pirate Parlor. The Winter Festival is a testament to the great support Shades Cahaba receives from parents, staff, teachers, students and the Homewood community.

Edgewood Elementary School students showcased their talents at their annual Talent Show at Homewood High School. The students lit up the stage with their singing, dancing, playing, and accomplishments of all kinds.

OLS spelling bee

Carmella Patrick, Lilly Billingsley and Anna Claire Stone enjoy the school’s annual Winter Festival.

Jacob Pugh, a fifth grade student, won the Our Lady of Sorrows Catholic School spelling bee. Fourth grader Jay Leonard placed second. After 24 complete rounds of competition, which included students in fourth through eighth grades, Pugh won the title. His final winning word was “reimbursable.” Winner Jacob Pugh and runner up Jay Leonard

Fabric of Homewood A Father and Sons Operation Mon-Thur: 7-7 Fri: 7-6:30, Sat: 9-4 1915 Oxmoor Rd. • 871.6131 hunterscleaners@gmail.com

Homewood’s Brownie Troop 217

| April 2012 |

Homewood Events

Calendar of Events

4/2 - 4th Annual Child Abuse Prevention Training. 10 a.m. The Center for Families of Jefferson County, 234 Aquarius Drive, Suite 118, Birmingham, AL 35209. This event will be held in honor of Child Abuse Prevention Month. Learn about signs, prevention and reporting of Child Abuse and Shaken Baby Syndrome. In addition to the free training, we will also be hosting a balloon release to bring awareness to child abuse prevention. Light refreshments will be served after the balloon release. RSVP to Ashley Reno: 9456000 or reno@ffamilyguidancecenter.org.

2 p.m.-6 p.m. This fun festival features old-fashioned carnival games, inflatables for all ages, and thrilling rides. A silent auction featuring local artwork, restaurant gifts cards, trips, and merchandise will be open in the school gym from 2 p.m.-5 p.m. Tickets and armbands will be available for purchase on the day of the festival, and all proceeds from the festival go back into Edgewood’s classrooms. More information: barryandkyle1@charter.net.

4/5- Homewood Metro Lions Club Camilla Pecan Sale Fundraiser. Piggly Wiggly, 3000 Montgomery Highway. More information: Max Herzel, 871-5125.

Homewood Public Library

4/ 6, 4/13, 4/20, 4/27– Complimentary Wine Tasting. Piggly Wiggly, 3000 Montgomery Hwy. Fridays, 4 p.m.-6 p.m. Free. More information: call 879-0884 or visit pigglywigglybirmingham.com. 4/9 – Homewood City Council Public Hearing. Rosewood Building. 6 p.m. Public hearing on the city’s long-term Capital Improvement Plan. Come to share your opinions on what the city’s priorities should be over the next five years. 4/13-14 – Samford University’s Cumberland School of Law Reunion Event. Join Cumberland School of Law Alumni and their families on April 14, 2012 as they celebrate 50 years of Cumberland being at Samford University. More information: visit http://cumberland. samford.edu/alumni. 4/14 – Birmingham Walk MS. Homewood Central Park. 7:30 a.m. The event will offer a one mile and a three mile route option for all participants. Admission: Free, but suggested personal fundraising goal. Participants who raise $100 or more will receive the official Walk MS T-shirt. More information: 879-8546. 4/14 – Red Mountain Park Zip Line Adventure Opens. Red Mountain Park. 8 a.m. The nation’s first universal access zipline adventure opens to the public. Tickets will be available for presale purchase in early April. More information: www. redmountainpark.org. 4/17- Social Networking to Build Your Business, Homewood Chamber of Commerce Luncheon. David Sher of Buzz 12 will speak. 11:30 a.m.-1 p.m. Homewood Public Library. Tickets: $17. More information: www.homewoodchamber. com.

4/2 – Estate Planning Essentials Workshop. Room 101. 6 p.m.-8 p.m. Presented by The Greene Law Firm, LLC. Admission: Free. More information: for reservations, contact Attorney Jay Green at 746-2465. 4/3 – Birmingham Canoe Club Meeting. 7 p.m. The Birmingham Canoe Club promotes local and regional canoeing, kayaking and sea kayaking. Meets the first Tuesday of each month. More information: www.birminghamcanoeclub.org. 4/3-4/26 – Computer Class- Intro to Microsoft Office 2007. Tuesdays and Thursdays, 2 p.m. More information: 3326632. 4/10 – Oxmoor Page Turners Book Group: A Rare Titanic Family. 6:30 p.m. In honor of the 100th anniversary of the Titanic’s sinking, Ms. Williams will be present at the meeting to give a presentation on her book. Free snacks and drinks will be provided. More information: 332-6601. 4/17 – David Sher of Buzz 12. 11 a.m. David will talk about how to grow your business with the use of social media. Sponsored by HealthSouth Lakeshore. Children’s Department Tuesdays & Wednesdays – Story Time. 10:30 a.m. All ages welcome. 4/5, 4/19 – Mommy & Me. 10:30 a.m. 4/6, 4/13, 4/20, 4/27 - Leaps & Bounds. 10:30 a.m. 30 months to 4 year olds with adult. Registration required. More information: 332-6619. 3/16 – After School Fun Club: Corn Hole & Corn Chips. 3:30 p.m.-4:30 p.m. Healthy competition and delicious snacks. 4/9,4/23 – Monday Movie. 3:30 p.m. 4/7, 4/21 – Cartoons & Cereal. 9:30 a.m.11:30 a.m. Teen Events

Leslie S. Wright Fine Arts Center. 8 p.m. Admission: $17-$80. More information: 975-2787. 4/13 – Opera Birmingham Presents: An Evening with Angela Brown. The Alabama School of Fine Arts, 1800 Rev. Abraham Woods, Jr. Blvd. Center. 8 p.m. More information: http://www. operabirmingham.org/performances.html. 4/13-4/15 – Alabama Ballet Presents: Alice in Wonderland with the Alabama Symphony Orchestra. Samford University’s Leslie S. Wright Fine Arts Center. 4/13 at 7:30 p.m., 4/14 at 2:30 and 7:30 p.m., and 4/15 at 2:30 p.m. Admission: $30-$55. More information: 975-2787. 4/14 – Birmingham Girls Choir auditions. Edgewood Presbyterian Church. 12 p.m.-2 p.m. More information: 916-SONG. 4/21-4/28 – Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland. BJCC. More information: www.bjcc.org. 4/27-29 – South Pacific. BJCC Concert Hall. 4/27 at 8 p.m., 4/28 at 2 and 8 p.m., 4/29 at 1 and 6:30 p.m. Admission: Tickets, $27.5067.50. More information: visit bjcc.org.

Special Events 4/7- Breakfast with the Easter Bunny. Birmingham Zoo. Call to make a reservation. More information: 879-0409. 4/7 – The Great Egg Drop. McWane Science Center. 10 a.m.-1 p.m. Building from 10 a.m.-11:45 a.m., egg drop at 12 p.m. Join us for an eggciting, eggstreme, hands-on fun eggstravaganza. Admission: included in cost; free, members. More information: www.mcwane.org/events. 4/11 – Native Spring Wildflowers. Birmingham Botanical Gardens. 8:30 a.m. Admission: Members, $40; Non-members, $45. . More information: 414-3950. 4/13 – Tunes ‘n Blooms. Birmingham Botanical Gardens. 6 p.m.-8 p.m. This premier event will preclude the Spring Plant Sale and will include food, drink and music. The event will also allow attendees an opportunity to shop the Plant Sale while doors are closed to the public. Tickets: Non-members, $15; Members, $10. More information: 414-3965. 4/14 – Girls Inc. Cajun Cook-off. Linn Park. 11 a.m.-3 p.m. All funds go to support Girls Inc. mission to inspire girls to be strong, smart and bold. Cook-off teams will be evaluated by a professional judges and event attendees in the People’s Choice. More information: www.bhamcajuncookoff.com.

4/19- Birmingham Revealed! 2012 Series: Birmingham Greek Food Traditions. Vulcan Park and Museum. 5:30 p.m.7 p.m. A panel discussion and cooking demonstration featuring George Sarris, Jimmy and Nicky Koikos and Niki Sespas, moderated by Greg Bass. Admission: in advance, $10; at the door, $15; Vulcan members, $7.50 online/at door. More information: 933-1409.

4/4 – Peeps Cuisine. 4 p.m. Come after school to make Peeps Pops, Peeps S’Mores and other marshmallow treats. Grades 6-12 only.

4/22 – Celebrate the Outdoors on Earth Day. Vulcan Park and Museum. 2 p.m. Celebrate the outdoors on Earth Day with live performances by Red Mountain Theatre Company’s Youth Programs and “Singin’ in the Rain” cast members. Admission: Free. More information: 3242424.

4/28 - Get Hooked. 2 p.m. Learn to crochet, or bring your knitting, sewing, smocking, beading, or other crafty project and join the fun! The library will provide light refreshments and instruction. Ages 10-adult.

Registration begins at 7 a.m., and awards and door prize giveaways start at 9 a.m. Admission: $30; Children under 12, free. More information: http:// www.active.com/5k-race/pelham-al/ readysetcure-2012 or contact Meagan Yeilding at myeilding@gmail.com.

4/23– White Elephant Bingo. Homewood Senior Center. Lunch of beef stronganoff, salad, a roll and dessert. Please bring a white elephant from home for the games. Admission: $5 for lunch. More information: 332-6500.

Music & Arts

4/17-20 – Take Two! A Ladies Consignment Sale. Vestavia City Center. Spring/summer 2012 consignment clothing event. Preview sales for volunteers and consignors on April 17. Sale will feature ladies’ clothing, shoes, purses and maternity. With more than 130 consignors, you will have access to beautiful items at affordable prices. Sizes range from 0-16 with prices starting at $3. Registration is now open! Deadline to consign untagged items is Monday, April 2. Receiving for tagged items will be Sunday, April 15 and Monday, April 16. More information; www.taketwoconsignment. com.

4/27-4/28 – 2012 Relay for Life of Homewood. Homewood Central Park. 4 p.m.-5 a.m. Walk to honor cancer survivors and remember people we have lost, and raise funds and awareness to help save lives. More information: www.relayforlife. org/homewood. 4/27-29 – Spring Art Show. PrimeTime Treasures. Friday and Saturday, 10 a.m.-4:30 p.m.; Sunday, 1 p.m.-4:30 p.m. Sponsored by Vestavia Hills Art Association. 4/28 – Edgewood Elementary PTO Spring Festival. Edgewood Elementary.

4/25 – Bottlecap Bonanza. 4 p.m. Come by the library to make jewelry and magnets with bottle caps. Bring your favorite pictures or magazines and make it more personal. All other supplies and snacks will be provided. Grades 6-12 only.

4/3 – Red Mountain Theatre Company’s Concert Series 4 (The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee). RMTC Cabaret Theatre. 7:30 p.m. Featuring cast members of The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee performing special numbers. Admission: Tickets, $30-35. More information: 324-2424. 4/5 – Alison Krauss & Union Station, Featuring Jerry Douglas. BJCC Concert Hall. 8 p.m. Admission: $44.50 or $59.50. More information: visit bjcc.org. 4/7 – Casting Crowns with Matthew West, Royal Tailor. BJCC Arena. 7 p.m. Admission: $19-$77. More information: visit bjcc.org. 4/7 –LeAnn Rimes. Samford University’s

4/14 – Ready. Set. Cure. 5k Race. Oak Mountain State Park. 8 a.m. The second annual Ready. Set. Cure. 5K is sponsored by the Birmingham Chapter of the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society’s Junior Board. The purpose of the event is to raise funds so LLS can continue to research blood cancers and support patients who suffer from them.

4/21-5/6 – Symphony Volunteer Council’s Annual Decorators’ ShowHouse. Turtle Rock Estate, Vestavia Hills. The Decorators’ ShowHouse tour will include over 21 decorated areas in the home. Admission:

Presale, $15; Door, $20. Tickets benefit the Alabama Symphony Orchestra. Lunch is served daily from 11 a.m. - 2 p.m. for $13 and includes a beverage. A sweet shop will provide treats for $3. Showhouse hours are Monday through Friday, 10 a.m. - 3 p.m., Friday evenings, 6 - 9 p.m., Saturdays, 10 a.m. - 5 p.m., and Sundays, 1 - 5 p.m. More information: call 824-5198 or visit www. showhouse-AL.com. 4/21 – One Year After: The April 27th Tornadoes. McWane Science Center. 10 a.m.-6 p.m. Exhibit open that reflects the power and experiences of the storms on April 27, 2011. Admission: included in cost; free, members. More information: www. mcwane.org/events. 4/22 – Picnic for the Planet. Railroad Park. 11 a.m.-3 p.m. Celebrate Earth Day with good food and great company. Food and beverages will also be available for purchase. More information: 251-1155. 4/22 – Spring Wildflower Hike. Ruffner Mountain Nature Center. 1 p.m. Join us on a hike with board member Michelle Reynolds as she shares her love and knowledge about wildflowers. Reservations required. Admission: $7; $5, members. More information: 833-8264. 4/25 – Salvation Army Women’s Auxiliary Annual Membership Coffee. 1994 Shades Crest Road, Vestavia. 10 a.m.-12 p.m. Any ladies interested in becoming a member of the Women’s Auxiliary are cordially invited. More information: call Lynne Heaven at 967-3430. 4/28 - Tour de Blue: Cycling for Prostate Cancer Awareness. Birmingham Bicycle Company, 1105 Dunston Ave. 8 a.m. There are three ride options: 60, 75, and 100 miles. Admission: $40, includes an event t-shirt. More information: visit www. UrologyHealthFoundation.org 4/28 – Garden Art Party. B & A Warehouse, 1531 1st Avenue South, Birmingham, AL 35233. 7 p.m.-10 p.m. Cocktail buffet, live and silent auction featuring travel, restaurant, and wine packages. All proceeds benefit Alzheimer’s of Central Alabama. Admission: Individual, $95; Couple, $180. More information: 871-7970 or www.alzca.org.

Sports 4/5 – Samford University Softball vs. Middle Tennessee State. 4 p.m. and 6 p.m. Admission: Free. More information: samfordsports.com. 4/6-4/8 – Samford University Baseball vs. The Citadel. 4/6 at 6 p.m., 4/7 at 2 p.m. and 4/8 at 1 p.m. Admission: $5, adults; $3, children. More information: samfordsports. com. 4/14 – Samford University Women’s Tennis vs. Chattanooga. 12 p.m. Admission: Free. More information: samfordsports.com. 4/18 – Samford University Baseball vs. UAB. 6 p.m. Admission: $5, adults; $3, children. More information: samfordsports. com.

Save the Date 5/4- Birmingham Music Club Presents Second Annual Bravo!Birmingham. Samford University Wright Center. 7:30 p.m.-9 p.m. Admission: $45, $35, and $25. Children 12 and under and balcony seats $10. A $5 discount per ticket is offered for groups of 10 or more. More information: 726-2853 or visit www.samford.edu/ wrightcenter or www.bhammusicclub.org. 5/5 - 2nd Annual Homewood City Schools Spirit Scamper 5K/10K Race and 1 Mile Fun Run. Homewood High School. 7:30 a.m. Admission: $20 fee for Non–HCS Employees, $15 Employees and HCS student. Fun Run is Free. More information: http://pandora.homewood.k12.al.us/ wordpress/nspurlock or call 870-4203.

The Homewood Star

www.TheHomewoodStar.com

Homewood Happenings Nabeel’s owner receives proclamations from Homewood By CRAIG KLEIMEYER Homewood Mayor Scott McBrayer recently presented Nabeel’s owner John Krontiras with two proclamations at a city council meeting. Krontiras received one proclamation for the contributions his family has made to the city, and one was for his contributions for Nabeel’s. Before purchasing Nabeel’s in 1993, a restaurant that serves Greek, Italian and Mediterranean food, he worked for more than 25 years as an executive in marketing and information technology. Previously, Nabeel’s was an old neighborhood grocery store, and they later bought the beauty shop next door and converted it into a restaurant. Krontiras and his family have served and contributed to more than 16 cityrelated organizations in Homewood. He and his family have lived in Homewood since 1972, and all three of his children went to Homewood schools. Krontiras has

John Krontiras. Photo by Craig Kleimeyer.

served for years on the Board of Zoning and Adjustments, as well as on the Planning Commission for Homewood.

28:20 Boutique now open downtown 28:20 Boutique is now open on 18th Street across from At Home and next to Once Upon a Time. The store sells women’s clothing, accessories and gifts for 20-45-year-olds. The store’s name comes from Genesis 28:20, “God will be with me and will watch

over me.” 28:20 is located at 2900 18th Street South, Suite 110, and can be reached at 5407446. They are open Monday-Saturday, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. For more information, visit their Facebook page.

New Jo Joe’s diner in Edgewood Jo Joe’s Diner will open in the former Collage Catering space on Broadway next to GianMarcos the first week of April. The diner will serve breakfast and lunch and will be open Monday through Friday from 7 a.m. to 3 p.m. For breakfast, the menu will offer standard items such as bacon and eggs but also includes

homemade breakfast sausage and beignets. For lunch, menu items will include hot dogs, specialty sandwiches and a meat and vegetable special each day. Jo Joes will also serve hamburgers with freshly ground meat. Jo Joe’s is located at 903 Broadway Street and can be reached at 877-8058.

Once Upon a Time reopened Once Upon a Time has reopened in downtown Homewood. The store had temporarily closed after damage from flooding. The store sells clothing, furniture, gifts and other items for babies and

toddlers. The store is located at 2900 18th Street South and can be reached at 8707776. For more information, visit www. onceuponatimellc.com.

Red Mountain Expresso

Red Mountain Expresso, a drive-thru with two windows, has opened in the old Seattle Drip location on 18th Street. Red Mountain purchases their coffee from the award winning Dillanos Coffee out of Seattle (Roaster of the Year in 2011) and also serves gourmet sandwiches. They have added significant staffing, which greatly improves their drive-thru times. Added

menu items include Homemade Chicken Salad, Pimento Cheese Biscuits and a Hawaiian Club Slider. Red Mountain Expresso is located at 601 18th Street South. New hours are 6:30 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday through Friday, and 7 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Saturday. For more information call 541-1823 or visit www. redmountainexpresso.com.

Hart & Soul now serving Sunday brunch Hart & Soul in Edgewood is now serving brunch every Sunday. The menu changes weekly but always includes dessert, fruit and salad. Brunch is offered on Sundays from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. for $12.95 per person. Regular

hours are 6:30 a.m. to 9 p.m. Monday through Thursday, 7:30 a.m. to 9 a.m. Friday and Saturday, and 8:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. on Sunday. Hart and Soul is located at 1014 Oxmoor Road. Call 871-4420 for more information.

| April 2012 |

enhancing lif e wit h pl ants

S PRING P LANT S ALE M ORE T HAN 100,000

PLANTS

Scan the tag for a video about the event.

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New for 2012 The Gardens’ Junior Board presents

Wine/Beer, Food & Live Music

Former Mazer’s on Greensprings in Homewood, AL

Friday, April 13 6 - 8 p.m.

P R E V I E W P A R T Y : April 12 | 5 - 6:30 p.m. M E M B E R S -O N L Y S A L E : April 12 | 6:30 - 8:30 p.m.

205.414.3950 bbga r dens.o r g

PUBLIC PLANT SALE Friday, April 13 | 9 - 5 p.m. Saturday, April 14 | 9 - 5 p.m. Sunday, April 15 | 11 - 3 p.m.