November 14, 2013

inside

The Suburban Newspaper for Mountain Brook, Homewood, Vestavia Hills, Hoover and North Shelby County

OVER THE MOUNTAIN

JOU RNAL otmj.com

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ursd ay, November 14, 2013

Vol . 23 #22

Westmorland is March of Dimes Citizen of the Year

people page 12

A

Stress-free

Feast

Crestline community says goodbye to The Pig

news page 17

Virginia Hornbuckle Simplifies Thanksgiving Celebrations

Gala in The Gardens kicks off Antiques show at BBG

social page 25

Three of Virginia Hornbuckle’s favorite Thanksgiving side dishes are this turnip greens and apple salad, squash casserole and green beans with red peppers and mushrooms. Journal photo by Lee Walls Jr.

Thanksgiving Trimmings Mountain Brook Home Is Filled with Bountiful Decorations Page 18

Colonial Days Cherokee Bend Students Learn About Past at Colonial Fair Page 52

By Donna Cornelius

Journal features writer

Virginia Hornbuckle loved attending the University of South Alabama—except for one thing.

“I didn’t like college food, so I’d go out to eat,” she said. “My parents were generous, but that got expensive, and my dad told me I needed to learn to cook.”

Hornbuckle, who is from Memphis, Tenn., said that although her mother is a great cook and that her grandmother loved to entertain, she had to begin her own culinary education by cooking “basic stuff.”

“Then I started having people over and having dinner-date parties,” she said.

She was in her last year at USA when she realized the major she’d chosen wasn’t going to translate into the right career for her.

“I majored in social work,” Hornbuckle said. “When I was doing my senior project, I realized I wasn’t cut out for that.”

Her father, Ken O’Dell, helped her change directions.

“I told him I liked cooking and having people over, and he asked, ‘How can you make that a career?’” she said.

Today, Hornbuckle has answered her dad’s question. She went to culinary school at Johnson & Wales in Charleston, S.C. She’s owned her own catering company, worked as a food stylist and in See A Stress-free feast, page 21

Turning Points program helps disabled students work and learn

school page 50

34 • Thursday, November 14, 2013

Gift Guide

OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAl

holiday gifts over the mountain journal

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h art Deco platinum Diamond and sapphire filigree Ring Levy’s Fine Jewelry, 251-3381

toys

here’s one in every group: that person who cheerfully announces about mid-July that she’s finished her Christmas shopping. All of it. eFor most of us less industrious folks, however, the calendar has to hit mid-November before we start getting serious about checking names off our gift list. eTo help make that task less daunting, we’ve put together our annual Gift Guide, with lots of selections found close to home at Over the Mountain stores. Many neighborhood merchants are happy to offer suggestions for even the hardest of your hard-to-please relatives and friends. eAnd lots of local shops have free gift wrapping, too. eWe’ve found a wide variety of choices, from splurges to stocking stuffers and everything in between. If you’re ready to get cracking on your holiday shopping, check out our guide before you hit the streets with debit card in hand. eAnd if you’re that “I was done in July” person, congratulations. And never mind.

someone special

g

h colorful and fun, this exclusive christopher Radko children’s of alabama ornament is a gift that will be cherished for years to come and a portion of the sales goes to the hospital, $45.

Bromberg’s, 871-3276, Mountain Brook, 969-1776, The Summit.

home

festive

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nightzone football is a foam football with leD lights for nighttime play, $14.99-$24.99 Homewood Toy & Hobby, Learning Express and Snoozy’s Kids.

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your holiday parties will not only be memorable but beautiful with this oblong glass board /serving platter. perfect for serving cheese or any other festive goodies, $180. Wallace-Burke Fine Jewelry & Collectibles, 874-1044.

these alexis Bittar ruthenium chain link andpyrite earrings, handmade in Brooklyn new york, will have her looking holiday ready, $145.

John Williams Jewelers, 870-4367.

elf on the shelf hide and seek Game. you hide the elf, who talks and plays music so that other players can find him. Snoozy’s Kids, $17.99, Learning Express, $19.99.

this precious armoire and bed set for dolls up to 18-inches was hand painted by a local artist and is a classic gift for any girl.

Mary Charles’ Doll House, 870-5544.

i

f

g

h

if the antique lover on your list loves a touch of old-world elegance, this handsome four-foot antique italian olive jar is the perfect gift, $1,100. Interiors at Pepper Place, 323-2817

g pamper your loved one with aqualant spray moisture sealant and skin protectant. this luxurious product protects your skin from the drying effects of the wind and cold weather associated with the holidays, $36.

Rousso Medical Spa, 930-9595.

g

Learning Express, and Smith’s Variety and have an exclusive Deluxe spirograph art studio, $34.99 for ages 8 and up. Homewood Toy and Hobby, Snoozy’s and Smith’s have deluxe sets for $29.99 that are designed for ages 8 and up.

Joyous and glorious, these beautiful driftwood angels will beautify your home not only during the holidays but all through the year, $78. Crestline Pharmacy, 871-0317.

if someone you love likes to decorate her home down to the last detail, she will love these sweet home alabama kitchen towels! $20.

Marguerites Conceits, 879-2730.

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f

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this vintage handmade afghan kelum covered stool will not only warm the décor of your holiday home but create the perfect resting place for years to come. $300. Paige Albright Orientals, 877-3232.

chunky nativity sets that are handcrafted and painted by seniors are lovely collectibles and reminders of the reason of the season. Great for decorating or for children.

PrimeTime Treasures, 870-5555.

f everyone loves candles! they make fabulous hostess gifts and we carry many brands and scents including local crafter, southernness. prices start at $25.99. Dorothy McDaniel’s Flower Market, 871-0092.

f

h

these gorgeous firefly Designs bracelet fits any wrist size. handmade in Guatemala with swarovski crystals and beads, these mosaic masterpieces are sure to wow any lady on your list. priced at only $159, this stunning bracelet is affordable, too! Jewels By Rose, 979-5611.

he’ll be competing for cook time with this evo companion classic Wheeled cart! the ideal grill for creating a social cooking space. he’ll be the envy of the neighborhood, $3,150.

All South Appliance, 942-0408 Distinctive pillows make beautiful additions to any home. We have a beautiful assortment of pillows from our recent buying trip in istanbul, turkey. turkish silk ikat pillows are not only beautiful but sure to please. prices range from $155 - $275.

Centuries Interiors, 879-2295.

g hanukkah begins this year on thanksgiving Day, so what better gift than a hanukkah apron to enjoy all through the holiday season, $22.

The Cook Store, 8795277.

i h

corvette is one of the longest running automotive nameplates with one of the most robust lineages of any car and the newest addition, the c7 corvette stingray, will make you forget every Gt car that came before it. any hardworking santa will look great in it!

Edwards Chevrolet, 716-3300.

friends write holiday musical p. 4 • demarco running for bachus’ seat p. 16 • heritage ball a holiday tradition p. 24

Holiday Gift Guide begins on page 34

2 • Thursday, November 14, 2013

Opinion/Contents

The Right Brew

A Homewood coffee company has been recognized for its efforts to not only build community here in the Over the Mountain area but also for its commitment to ethical business practices as it works with coffee farmers around the world.

Jeff Huey, a partner in Seeds Coffee Co., was recently nominated for the 2013 Epoch Awards, which honor “unsung heroes” from around the world.

Huey, 33, was nominated for the award because of the work he has been doing since opening Seeds Coffee with some likeminded friends in March 2012.

The company first opened as a coffee roaster but expanded in Jeff Huey April of this year to include a cafe at 174 Oxmoor Road.

For the full story on Seeds Coffee and other OTM business news, see page 38.

On otmj.com Browse through more photos from the season’s most festive parties and check out events happening in our area online.

Coming Nov. 28

We’ll take you inside some of the homes on two upcoming holiday home tours and have the second part of our holiday gift guide in the next issue.

in this issue About Town 4 People 12 NEWS 16 LIFE 18 SOCIAL 24

WEDDINGS 31 Gift Guide 34 Business 38 Schools 50 Sports 56

OVER THE MOUNTAIN

J O U R N A L November 14, 2013

Publisher: Maury Wald Editor: Keysha Drexel Features Writer: Donna Cornelius Office Manager: Christy Wald Editorial Assistant: Stacie Galbraith Sports: Lee Davis Contributors: Susan Murphy, June Mathews, William C. Singleton III, Emil Wald, Marvin Gentry, Lee Walls Jr., Bryan Bunch Advertising Sales: Suzanne Wald, Julie Trammell Edwards, Tommy Wald Interns: Taylor Burgess, Ginny Cooper Vol. 23, No. 22

Over The Mountain Journal is a suburban bi-weekly newspaper delivered to Mountain Brook, Homewood, Vestavia Hills, Hoover and North Shelby County areas. Subscriptions for The Journal are available for $24 yearly. Mail to: Over the Mountain Journal, P.O. Box 660502, Vestavia Hills, AL 35216. Phone: (205) 823-9646. E-mail the editorial department at editorial@otmj.com. E-mail our advertising department at ads@otmj.com. Find us on the Web at otmj.com.

Copyright 2013 Over The Mountain Journal, Inc. All rights reserved.

The Journal is not responsible for return of photos, copy and other unsolicited materials submitted. To have materials returned, please specify when submitting and provide a stamped, self-addressed envelope. All materials submitted are subject to editorial review and may be edited or declined without notification.

OVER THE MOUNTAIN Journal

murphy’s law

O

It’s U-turn to Host Thanksgiving

would be around, like 2 a.m., but those ur daughter and her famhours bring their own problems, like ily phoned to say that drivers zigzagging down the middle they’ll be coming home for of the road, using the curbs as bumper Thanksgiving, and I am over-therails. Besides, I didn’t know how I’d moon excited. Now, I just have to explain it to the kindly officer of the hope that they get here. law if he found me wheels up on the This year, their trek over the river median hysterically crying. and through the woods will involve What I needed was a preemptive making their way down Highway 280 training session or two, you know, ask with all of its recent upgrades and that kindly officer of the law to do a improvements. I’ve been struggling ride-along and talk me through my first with the changes for weeks myself and U-Merge excursion. It certainly would to explain them over the phone to my have been better than the way I did it, daughter will be a challenge. white knuckling down the center lane “You see, some left turns have with Harold in the passenger seat yellbeen shifted to government-sanctioned Sue Murphy ing, “Turn here!” and then shaking his U-turns (go toward the light). Some head when I cowardly whizzed right by. crossovers have been eliminated comTo be truthful, for the first few pletely. There is merging going on Better 280 weeks, I made no turns at from all sides. Brush up on your It might have made all. I just powered down that center NASCAR training and wear a hellane until I reached my un-betterized met.” sense to plot the But that wasn’t a long The Alabama Department of new course out with destination. term solution. After giving myself a Transportation was very conscientious during the highway transition, masking tape on the modern woman pep talk (seriously, Susan, you can do this), I slapped sending out a nifty little flyer full of kitchen floor and on my sunglasses on a mid-morning maps and helpful hints. There’s even a bespectacled cartoon professor practice with a Hot Tuesday, popped Tom Petty into the CD player and headed out to make pointing to the words “Better 280” Wheels car, but I felt a U-turn. I signaled, I merged, I to give people hope for a brighter turned! Then I rewarded myself with tomorrow, but being a person of a little foolish... a chicken biscuit, not because I was very little map skill, I could have hungry, but because that’s where the benefited from some second-tier U-turn ended up, and I needed a little assistance. time to breathe.

I read the pamphlet several times, I watched other My daughter may not need a chicken biscuit on her people successfully negotiate the turns and merges, but way in from the airport, but when she hits the 280 corriI still felt unprepared to jump in at 45 miles per hour. It dor, I don’t want her to panic. (You’re a modern woman, might have made sense to plot the new course out with honey. You can do this.) I’m going to send her a copy of masking tape on the kitchen floor and practice with a the pamphlet (and maybe some Hot Wheels cars) so she Hot Wheels car, but I felt a little foolish, especially after my husband Harold caught me rehearsing a future Emmy can practice a few times before she gets here. Then I’ll just cross my fingers and hope for the best. acceptance speech (Best Actress in a Limited Series) in And when they pull into the driveway, I will be the bathroom mirror. thankful indeed. ❖ I contemplated making a practice run when no one

over the Mountain Views

What are you most grateful for this Thanksgiving?

“I’m thankful for my friends and my family.

I’m thankful we’ll get to eat a big Thanksgiving lunch together.”

“I’m most grateful for my friends and my family. I like to go outside and play with my cousins on Thanksgiving.”

“I’m thankful for my sister, Olivia. She just turned 5 in July. I’m glad to have a sister to play with so that I don’t get lonely.”

Isabella Foran Hoover

Palmer Covin Hoover

Madison Hunsberger Vestavia Hills

“I’m thankful for my mom and my dad because I love them. I love to celebrate Thanksgiving.”

Jack Glascock Hoover

OVER THE MOUNTAIN Journal

About Town

the traveller,s choice.

Thursday, November 14, 2013 • 3

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4 • Thursday, November 14, 2013

About Town

OVER THE MOUNTAIN Journal

The Play’s Their Thing Friends Team Up to Write Holiday Musical

By Ginny Cooper Journal intern

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ometimes when two people collaborate, the result is magical.

That’s what happened when Mountain Brook residents Jean Pierce and Bettie Pruitt teamed up to write a holiday musical for Birmingham Children’s Theatre.

The women’s play, “Santa’s Adventure in the Merrywood Mega Mall,� returns to the BCT’s Wee Folks Theatre on Nov. 24 with a tale about the excitement and magic of the holiday season. And when longtime friends and playwrights Jean Pierce and Bettie Pruitt put their heads together, holiday magic happens.

Pierce and Pruitt had been cowriting for almost a decade when Jim Rye, who was the artistic director of the BCT at that time, approached them with a request for a Christmas play. He gave them a title, “Santa’s Adventure,� and scheduled the production for the upcoming season. “He went ahead and put it on the program,� Pruitt said. “’Santa’s Adventure,’ period. Then we had to come up with an adventure. So we put our heads together and started thinking: What kind of adventure could Santa possibly have?�

The duo wanted to create a modern-day holiday story and so came up with the setting of a mall. “We wanted to make it modern, and we knew malls were a central part of the modern Christmas, so we decided that Santa would get locked in the mall and maybe couldn’t make it around the world,� Pierce said.

In the play, Santa loses track of time and gets trapped in the gigantic Merrywood Mega Mall. When he can’t get out, he becomes worried that he won’t make it out in time to deliver presents to all of the good little girls and boys around the world.

Shenanigans ensue as the only other people left in the mall--a ditzy giftwrap girl and a maintenance man, appropriately named Mr. Broom-attempt to help Santa escape.

The play is designed for children ages 2-6. Pierce and Pruitt said they carefully considered the age of their audience when they were crafting the Christmas tale. “We have a wonderful composer, Jay Tuminello, who writes all of the music for the shows,� Pierce said. “Every show is a musical, so that helps the children stay involved.� In addition, every show is 45 minutes to an hour, with no intermission because, as Pruitt pointed out, “Once one child has to go to the restroom, then they all want to go to the restroom.�

The script for “Santa’s Adventure in the Merrywood Mega Mall� has remained the same since its debut in 1991, but Pierce and Pruitt are looking forward to seeing the play again this year under new director Will Harrell. The women’s friendship goes back

Bettie Pruitt, left, and Jean Pierce have been writing plays together for more than 30 years. One of their plays, “Santa’s Adventure in the Merrywood Mega Mall,� will be staged at Birmingham Children’s Theatre next month.

Journal photo by Keysha Drexel

more than 60 years, but they have been writing plays together for only about half that time.

Pierce and Pruitt met when both were students at BirminghamSouthern College.

Pierce, who studied theater at Birmingham-Southern and did graduate work at the University of Utah, said she has worked as both an actress and director with almost every theater in town, including Town and Gown, Festival Theatre and Terrific New Theatre. “But of all of those, I prefer being here at BCT,� she said.

Santa's Adventures in the Merrywood Mega Mall

When: Nov. 24-Dec. 20 Where: Birmingham Children’s Theatre Details: The play for ages 2-6 tells what happens when Santa gets locked in a mall. More info: Visit www. bct123.org or call 458-8181.

Pierce has been involved with Birmingham Children’s Theatre for more than 40 years, since it was a production of the Junior League.

The theater is now the resident professional theater company of the Birmingham-Jefferson Convention Complex, where it operates the 150seat Dominick Studio Theatre, the 250-seat Wee Folks Theatre and the 950-seat Mainstage Theatre. Pierce had been involved with BCT for many years when Pruitt returned to Birmingham after following her husband, a career U.S. Air Force officer, around the world for more than 20 years. Pierce was quick to suggest that Pruitt get involved with the theater. “When I moved back, Jean said, ‘Oh, wouldn’t you like to volunteer at Children’s Theatre?’� Pruitt said,

laughing. The Birmingham Children’s Theater was, at the time, completely dependent on volunteers, she said.

Pruitt soon became very involved, despite having little previous experience. “I’ve always loved the theater, but I am in no way trained,� she said.

The two women were on a play committee together, responsible for selecting the plays to be performed each season. They found it difficult to find scripts both “appropriate and timely,� Pruitt said, so they agreed to write their own.

The women turned out to have a knack for the art. Their first play, “Backstage Baby,� ended up playing at the Kennedy Center in Washington, D.C., after the Director of Programs for Youth saw the show on a visit to Birmingham and booked it for a three-day stint at the prestigious theater. “We were part lucky--I don’t know, maybe we were smarter than we thought,� Pierce said.

Together, the two women have written six plays for BCT as well as numerous plays for UAB’s touring theatre, Bookends, a program designed to promote literacy. Wee Folks Theatre is actually named the Jean Prescott Pierce Wee Folks Theatre as a tribute to the hard work and support Pierce has given to the theater over the years, said Russ Hobbie, BCT’s marketing manager. “The Wee Folks Theatre was named for Jean a while ago for all the work that she has done here. She’s written more than 40 plays for BCT as well as directing them and acting in them, and so she was honored with this plaque,� Hobbie said.

The plaque is not by the front entrance as most might expect. “This is where the actors sneak back, and they come through here to the stage, so actors are the only ones who see this. People come, and they don’t know that this is the Jean Prescott Pierce Wee Folks Theatre,

See play, next page

Save the Date Birmingham

Children’s of Alabama 2013 Illuminations Tree Display Nov. 14-Dec. 5, 9 a.m.-9 p.m.

Children’s Russell and McWane Buildings Children’s of Alabama will present the 2013 Illuminations tree display Nov. 4-Dec. 5 in the main lobbies of the Children’s Russell and McWane Buildings from 9 a.m.-9 p.m. each day.

The event will feature about 40 trees designed and decorated by individuals, companies and organizations from the Birmingham area. The Illuminations tree

play,

Thursday, November 14, 2013 • 5

About Town

OVER THE MOUNTAIN Journal

program is held each year in conjunction with the annual Illuminations Ball, one of the hospital’s major fundraising events. The viewing of the trees is free and open to the public. For more information, call 638-9956.

Birmingham

Spring Valley School’s Sunshine on the Vine Nov. 15, 5:30 p.m.

Carraway-Davie House and Conference Center The Carraway-Davie House and Conference Center will be the setting for Spring Valley School’s Sunshine on the Vine fundraiser at 5:30 p.m. on Nov. 15.

Sponsored by Western Supermarkets, the auction and wine tasting will directly benefit the school. The event will feature wines for sampling, foods for tasting and an auction. Granger, Thagard & Associates will serve as auctioneers.

Items up for bid will include a vacation to Kinsale, Ireland, a beach vacation package, a rock climbing adventure, jewelry and much more. Individual tickets are $75. A reserved table for eight is $500. For more information, call Tery Young at 423-8660.

Hoover

Fashion Sense and Show Nov. 14, 11 a.m.

Hoover Country Club The Hoover Service Club will host the Fashion Sense and Show at 11 a.m. on Nov. 14 at the Hoover Country Club. The event will feature lunch and a fashion show of the latest styles modeled by Hoover Service Club members. Tickets are $18. For more information, call 981-1242.

Birmingham

“Funny Girl” Nov. 14-17 Theater LJCC Theatre LJCC will present “Funny Girl,” the musical story of Fanny Brice, one of the most celebrated entertainers

©2013 Porsche Cars North America, Inc. Porsche recommends seat belt usage and observance of all traffic laws at all times.

From previous page

it’s just the Wee Folks Theatre. That’s just a nod to the type of person that she is and to her incredible character,” Hobbie said.

Pierce and Pruitt said the best part of co-writing plays is working together.

“We work pretty well as a team because we know each other. One of us would get stuck on a scene, and the other would say, ‘Oh, let’s do so-andso,’ and it would just come together,” Pruitt said.

Pierce said she and Pruitt are likeminded in a lot of ways, which helps the creative process.

“We kind of think alike anyway, at least as far as taste and appropriateness, and we just go from there,” Pierce said.

Pierce said she loves to watch the children in the audience really embrace the plays she and Pruitt have written.

“It’s so rewarding to see the children connect with the story,” she said.

And while both women said they want their plays to be entertaining, they said they strive to make them meaningful as well.

“We’re very preachy, but we hope it’s without seeming preachy. That’s the thing, because if you put it in a humorous context, you can get a lot of messages across,” Pruitt said.

Their version of the classic story “Rumpelstiltskin” is an example of this theory at work. In the play, Rumpelstiltskin is no longer the purely-evil imp who ends up ripping himself in two but instead is just a lonely, ill-behaved misfit.

“The children could identify with this mean little person, always having temper fits, and we hope that it would make them think, ‘I don’t want to be like that,’” Pierce said.

The two women said they thought of their children and grandchildren as they crafted their plays. Both have children, grandchildren--and in Pierce’s case, great-grandchildren-who grew up watching the plays.

“Sometimes my grandson, who is a lawyer, comes to see my plays, and I get really nervous,” Pierce said.

“But he says, ‘Grandma, you haven’t lost your touch.’”

Both women said they couldn’t get a better review than that.

General admission tickets are $9 for children and $11 for adults. For more information, visit www.bct123. org or call 458-8181. ❖

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of her time, Nov. 7-17. Show times are at 7:30 p.m. on Nov. 7, 9, 14 and 16 and at 2 p.m. on Nov. 10 and 17. Tickets are $15 for adults and $12 for students. For more information, call Mindy Cohen at 879-0411, extension 233.

Birmingham

“Jesus Christ Superstar” Nov. 14-17 Virginia Samford Theatre Virginia Samford Theatre will present “Jesus Christ Superstar” Nov. 14-17. One of the most popular works for musical theater, the show earned five Tony nominations. Tickets are $30-$35. Show times are at 7:30

To: From:

Date:

6 • Thursday, November 14, 2013

About Town p.m. Nov. 14-16 and at 2:30 p.m. on Nov. 17. Virginia Samford Theatre is at 1116 26th St. South, Birmingham.

For more information, visit www. virginiasamfordtheatre.org or call 2511206.

The Perfect Gift.

Make it personal... a custom portrait or painting

by Judy Butler

Birmingham

Hand drawn and/or painted from photographs in your choice of media,charcoal, pencil, pastels, watercolor or oil/acrylic.

www.jbutlerart.com or call 205-907-0700 e-mail butlers101@aol.com

Introducing Bravo Ceramic Egg ~Just in time for the Holidays~

Model Train Exhibit Nov. 14-Jan. 26 McWane Science Center The holidays are picking up steam at the McWane Science Center in Birmingham with the return of the Magic Model Trains exhibit. Those visiting will discover trains of every shape and size in this popular exhibit, which will be on display Nov. 14-Jan. 26. The exhibit is included in the cost of admission to the museum and free for members.

Museum admission is $12 for adults and $9 for ages 2-12 and those older than 65. Children 2 and younger get in free. For more information, visit www. mcwane.org or call 714-8300.

Homewood

lImItEd tImE offEr $

695

Alabama Gaslight & Grill

Homewood Metro Lions Club Pecan Sale Nov. 15, 10 a.m.-5 p.m.

Piggly Wiggly on U.S. 31 The Homewood Metro Lions Club will hold its annual Camilla Pecan Sale in front of Piggly Wiggly on U.S. 31 in Homewood on Nov. 15 from 10 a.m.5 p.m. A $8 donation is requested for each 12-ounce bag of Camilla pecans.

The annual sale is the civic club’s major fundraiser of the year and will benefit the Alabama Lions Sight Association, Camp Seale Harris, Leader Dog for the Blind, Alabama Lions Eyeglasses Recycling Program, Alabama Lions Hearing Aid Recycling Program and other community projects.

Birmingham

Holiday Wreaths Nov. 15, 4-5:30 p.m.

Birmingham Botanical Gardens 2828 Linden Ave. Homewood • 870-4060 Head out to the Birmingham Botanical Gardens from 4-5:30 p.m. on Nov. 15 to see what you can do with a little mesh, wire hangers and a few ornaments.

Participants will learn how to make holiday Mike wreaths Over The Mountain Journal, PHONE: 205-823-9646 and leave FAX: 205-824-1246 with a Oct., 203 finished product.

This is your AD PrOOF from the OvEr THE MOuNTAiN JOurNAl for the All supplies Oct. 17, 2013 issue. Please fax approval or changes to 824-1246. will be provided.

For a personal touch, participants can bring old ornaments or family mementos to add to their wreaths. The cost is $25 for members and $35 for non-members. Free parking Please initial and fax back within 24 hours. is available. For more information, visit if we have not heard from you by 5 pm of the Friday before the press date,www.bbgardens.org or call 414-3950.

Please make sure all information is correct, including address and phone number!

2622 fargo drive Full Brick Home in the $220's! your ad will run as is. We print the paper Monday.

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Located in Twin Branch Estates

For more information go to JamesHarwell.com

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Over the Mountain Office 1220 Alford Avenue • 205.281.4731

North Shelby

North Shelby Library Turkey Craft Nov. 15, 4 p.m.

OVER THE MOUNTAIN Journal

North Shelby Library Get ready for Thanksgiving by making a whimsical turkey craft at the North Shelby Library. The craft session will be at 4 p.m. on Nov. 15 and is free and open to all ages. Registration is required. The library is at 5521 Cahaba Valley Road. For more information, visit www.northshelbylibrary.org or call 4395504.

Birmingham

Human Rights Award Ceremony Nov. 15, 6 p.m.

Birmingham Civil Rights Institute The Birmingham Civil Rights Institute will present its highest honor, the Fred L. Shuttlesworth Human Rights Award, to Ambassador Andrew Young on Nov. 15. Young is a noted Civil Rights activist and former mayor and congressman.

The event will begin with a 6 p.m. reception in the Sheraton Birmingham Hotel Ballroom followed by dinner and the awards program at 7 p.m. Tickets are $125 each or $2,000 for a table. For more information, visit bcri.org or call 328-9696, extension 236.

Birmingham

Illuminations Ball Nov. 15, 6 p.m.

Cahaba Grand Conference Center The Protective Life Corp. will present its 12th annual Illuminations Ball at 6 p.m. on Nov. 15 at the Cahaba Grand Conference Center. The evening will include a seated dinner and holiday dessert stations. Big Daddy’s New Band will provide live music for the event, which will include silent and live auctions by C King Benefit Auctions.

Tickets are $200. Sponsorship packages are available. For more information, call 638-9956.

Mountain Brook

Standing Room Only Nov. 15, 7:30 p.m.

Emmet O’Neal Library The Emmet O’Neal Library in Mountain Brook will present the first event in a new program series called Standing Room Only on Nov. 17. At 7:30 p.m., the series will kick off with an intimate performance by Duquette Johnson. Johnson and his string quartet will perform on the library’s Community Meeting Room stage. Local singersongwriter Rachel Herbert will open the show. The concert is free. Adult beverages will be served, so the show is open only to those 21 and older. Doors open at 7 p.m. For more information, visit www.eolib.org or call 445-1119.

Birmingham

Dirt Dash 5K Fun Run/Walk Nov. 16, 8 a.m.

Birmingham Botanical Gardens The Junior Board of the Birmingham Botanical Gardens will host the second annual Dirt Dash 5K Fun Run/Walk on Nov. 16 at The Gardens. Race day registration begins in the parking lot at 6:30 a.m. The 5K begins at 8 a.m.

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The walk begins at 9 a.m. Entries for the 5K received before Nov. 15 are $25; race day registration is $35. Entry fees for the one-mile family walk are $20 for adults and $15 for ages 7-17.

An awards ceremony will follow the race at 10 a.m. Family activities will be held at The Gardens from 8-10 a.m. The event will benefit The Gardens’ educational programs. To register online or for more information, visit www.bbgardens.org/funrun.

Vestavia Hills

Holiday Market Nov. 16, 9 a.m.-2 p.m.

Saint Mark UMC The United Methodist Women of Saint Mark United Methodist Church will present the annual Holiday Market on Nov. 16 in the church gym. The event will run from 9 a.m.-2 p.m. and will feature a wide variety of handmade items, including jewelry, knit and crochet items, mosaic crosses and more. There will also be goodies baked by church members and friends. Shoppers can recharge at the Coffee Shop, which will offer baked items, coffee and a light lunch. A card table playhouse will be given away to the shopper holding the winning ticket. Tickets can be purchased at the market. The church is at 2901 Columbiana Road, Vestavia Hills. For more information, visit www. saintmarkumc.org.

Hoover

Sue Scrofa Performance Nov. 16, 6:30 p.m.

Hoover Public Library Sue Scrofa will bring her indiepop music to Hoover on Nov. 16 for a performance at the Hoover Public Library at 6:30 p.m. Scrofa has been featured on “A Prairie Home Companion.” The event is free. For more information, call 444-7821.

Hoover

Historical Society Meeting Nov. 17, 2:30 p.m.

Artists on the Bluff Bill Hawkins of Gardendale will be the featured speaker at the Nov. 17 meeting of the Hoover Historical Society.

The meeting will be held at 2:30 p.m. at Artists on the Bluff, 569 Park Ave. in Hoover. Hawkins will speak on the Cherokee tribe preparing to move on the Trail of Tears to Oklahoma.

Birmingham

The Voices of Kristallnacht Nov. 17, 2:30 p.m.

Birmingham Museum of Art In commemoration of the 75th anniversary of Kristallnacht, the “Night of Broken Glass” that was the point of no return in the Holocaust, the Birmingham Holocaust Education Center will present “WITNESS: The Voices of Kristallnacht” on Nov. 17. The event will be at 2:30 p.m. in Steiner Auditorium at the Birmingham Museum of Art. The Seasoned Performers, under the direction of Ellise Mayor, will perform readings of first-person narratives by people who experienced Kristallnacht.

The performance is free and open to the public. For more information, contact Deborah Layman at 907-9639 or deborah.layman@gmail.com.

OVER THE MOUNTAIN Journal

Thursday, November 14, 2013 • 7

About Town Crestline Village merchants ready to usher in the holiday season are, from left: Hunt Mobley, Leslie Pittman, Jimmy Tracy, Suzan Doidge, John Bromberg and Will Haver.

COLLIER’S

Photo special to the Journal

Nursery

Crestline Village Hosting Holiday Open House Crestline Village merchants are getting ready to usher in the 2013 holiday season with a special event later this month.

On Nov. 21, the merchants of Crestline Village and the Mountain Brook Chamber of Commerce will host the second annual Holiday Open House event.

During the event, stores in Crestline Village will open their doors late to welcome shoppers and showcase their holiday wares.

Leslie Pittman, owner of Laura Kathryn, said the Holiday Open House is the perfect way to kick off the holiday shopping season.

“These events really drive traffic to our local stores and benefit all of us,” she said.

John Bromberg, who recently opened John-William Jeweller in Crestline Village with his brother, Billy, said he is glad to be a part of this year’s Holiday Open House.

“People like to shop from people they know and to support their community,” he said. “We hope this is the first of many events we are involved with to get people to shop locally.”

Jimmy Tracy, the owner of Tracy’s, said events like the Nov. 21 Holiday Open House give merchants in Crestline Village a chance to come together for a common goal.

“We all support each other and want to see each other do well,” he said. “It’s all about community here, and even though people throw that word around a lot, it does mean something here.”

For more information on the Crestline Village Holiday Open House, visit the Mountain Brook Chamber of Commerce’s website at www.welcometomountainbrook. com.

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8 • Thursday, November 14, 2013

About Town

OVER THE MOUNTAIN Journal

New Name, New Logo Junior League’s Market Noel Set for Nov. 20-23

The leaves are turning, the smell of pumpkin spice is in the air and wish lists are being penned. In other words, it’s time for a holiday market.

The Junior League of Birmingham debuts a new name and logo for its holiday market this year with Market Noel.

Mary Evans, Market Noel chairman, said the League wanted a fresh, updated look and decided to give the name more definition. The hope is that the event is a holiday shopping tradition that continues to grow each year, she said.

Market Noel is returning to the Cahaba Grand Conference Center for the fifth consecutive year on Nov. 20-23.

Parking is free, and the Cahaba Grand has an onsite café that allows attendees to enjoy a bite, kick their feet up and recharge.

The layout of the vendors’ areas in the ballroom and lobby has been reconfigured to allow easy movement from one area to the next, organizers said.

All proceeds from Market Noel will support the JLB’s 34 community projects, including Girls Inc.’s Mother-Daughter Connection and Teen Leadership programs, which prepare girls of diverse backgrounds to become productive members of society by providing a safe place to learn and grow with the freedom to take risks and try new things without fear of criticism.

Shoppers will be able to browse items from more than 100 local and national merchants while enjoying Christmas music.

The festivities begin Nov. 20 at 7 p.m. with a Sneak Peek party with hors d’oeuvres, wine and beer tastings

Organizers and participants are getting ready tor the Junior League of Birmingham’s annual holiday market, which this year has a new name.

From left: Lora Retherford, Mandy Majerik and Mary Evans.

Photo special to the Journal

and the chance to win a one-carat diamond from Diamonds Direct with the purchase of a glass of champagne.

Sophia Designs, a fashionable and local favorite, will be back at the event for the third year. Noha Nadler, an Over the Mountain resident and mother of four, creates timeless yet fashion forward handbags.

Nadler said she finds it rewarding to see loyal customers return to the holiday market year after year. Nadler will have her signature clutches in hand-dyed Egyptian fabrics and popular ostrich cross-body bags and satchels featured at her booth. Her metallic bags will also be available.

Michaela Swafford, owner and designer of MADE in the deep south, said she is thrilled to be returning to Market Noel for her second year.

MADE in the deep south creates one-of-a-kind pieces from vintage jewelry. Vintage pieces from all over the world are deconstructed

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and mixed with other materials to create “new,” standout jewelry.

Every MADE piece is unique and comes with a “story card” that provides its biography.

Joining Market Noel’s camp of new vendors is Merry Cheese Crisps, a Birmingham-based company selling a delicious new spin on a Southern favorite, the cheese straw. Meredith McMillan, the company’s founder and a Mountain Brook resident, said she is excited to be sharing her crisps at Market Noel.

“The crisps are a variation on an old family recipe that I made growing up with my mom. The flavor is sharp but not too spicy. Kids love them, too,” McMillan said.

Homewood’s own Father Goose, Charles Ghigna, a nationally renowned poet and author, has recently co-written a children’s book with his wife entitled “Christmas is Coming!” Both authors will make an appearance on Nov. 21 to sign copies of their latest book.

A seminar on holiday decorating from 6:30-7:30 p.m. on Nov. 21 will feature Mandy Majerik from HotHouse Design Studios.

“Stylish Tips for Holiday Home Decor” will be presented by Sidney Bragiel on Nov. 22 from 11:30 a.m.12:30 p.m. Bragiel will provide advice on how to spruce up your home for the holidays.

Also on Nov. 22, John Croyle of the Big Oak Ranch will sign copies of his book, “The Two-Minute Drill to Manhood: A Proven Game Plan for Raising Sons.”

Other highlights of the week include Market Morning on Nov. 21, which includes a brunch featuring country music singer Sara Evans. On Nov. 23, families can enjoy free photos with Santa and Mrs. Claus.

General admission shopping is from 9 a.m.-8 p.m. on Nov. 21 and 22 and from 9 a.m.-5 p.m. on Nov. 23.

Visit www.marketnoel.net to purchase tickets and to see a complete listing of participating merchants and event details. More information is at www.facebook.com/MarketNoel and on Pinterest and Twitter at JLBirmingham (#jlbmarketnoel).

Tickets also will be available at the door. All special event tickets include admission for shopping. ❖

OVER THE MOUNTAIN Journal

About Town

Thursday, November 14, 2013 • 9

10 • Thursday, November 14, 2013

About Town

Save the Date Cont.

OVER THE MOUNTAIN Journal

ironbowl tailgate

Birmingham

November Organ Recital Nov. 17, 4-5 p.m.

Independent Presbyterian Church The 49th annual November Organ Recital Series at Independent Presbyterian Church continues on Nov. 17 with a 4 p.m. recital

by David Baskeyfield.

Baskeyfield was the 2011 first prize winner and David Baskeyfield audience prize winner at the St. Albans International Organ Competition. The free concert will be at the church, 3100 Highland Ave. For more information, call 933-3700.

Hoover

Jason Bailey Performance Nov. 17, 2:30 p.m.

Hoover Library Mandolin virtuoso Jason Bailey will perform at the Hoover Public Library on Nov. 17. Bailey, who plays a variety of styles including bluegrass, Celtic and swing jazz, will play the mandolin at 2:30 p.m. The event is free. The library is at 200 Municipal Drive. For more information, call 444-7821.

Birmingham

Accessories

Prints

“Finish the Fight” Iron Bowl Tailgate Party Nov. 21, 6:30 p.m.

Ted’s Garage The Reed Foundation will host the ninth annual “Finish the Fight” Iron Bowl Tailgate Party on Nov. 21 at Ted’s Garage in Birmingham. The event begins at 6:30 p.m. and will feature tailgating from food trucks, complimentary wine and beer, a silent auction and live music by T.U.B. The UnKnamed Band. The Reed Foundation directly supports GI cancer research and patient care at UAB. Reservations must be made in advance at www.reedgifoundation.com/ events. can be purchased from Helen Faught at helenfaught@aol.com or 967-6459 or from Char Bonsack at 408-9084.

required. For more information, contact Leslie West at lwest@bham.lib.al.us or 332-6620.

homewood

Mountain Brook

Jamaican Cuisine with Chef “E” Nov. 18, 6 p.m.

Homewood Public Library A series called Healthy Eating from Around the World with Chef “E” continues at the Homewood Public Library at 6 p.m. on Nov. 18 with a program on Jamaican food. Chef “E” will teach participants the basic steps for preparing Jamaican food. The program will elaborate on the slow food movement’s philosophy of homegrown ingredients and family participation in meal preparation. Reservations are

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“City Mouse, Country Mouse” Nov. 20, 3:30 p.m.

Emmet O’Neal Library Birmingham Children’s Theatre will present an afterschool special on Nov. 20 with “City Mouse, Country Mouse” at the Emmet O’Neal Library in Mountain Brook. The theater will present its version of the classic tale at 3:30 p.m. This is a free event, and no registration is required. The show is recommended for ages 3 and older. For more information, visit www.eolib.org or call 879-0497.

Homewood

Lamps

Gifts

Frames

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Furniture

Tea, Live Auction and Shop & Go Nov. 18, 1-3 p.m.

Danberry Inverness The P.E.O. Chapter B will host a tea, live auction and Shop & Go on Nov. 18 from 1-3 p.m. at Danberry at Inverness, located at 235 Inverness Parkway. Storyteller Dolores Hydock will share a Thanksgiving story about surprising blessings, holiday hassles, sibling rivalry and the mysteries of sweet potato casserole. Tickets are $15 and

Birmingham

From left: Corporate board members Lee Edwards, Randy Reed, Charlie Collat and Frederic Smith are ready to “Finish the Fight” at the annual Reed Foundation’s Iron Bowl Tailgate Party on Nov. 21. Photo special to the Journal

Alison Kynerd Thomas, left, and Carol Riley are getting ready for Briarwood Presbyterian Church’s annual Christmas at the Caroline House event Nov. 19-20.

Christmas at the Caroline House Photo special to the Journal Nov. 19-20 Briarwood Presbyterian Church Briarwood Presbyterian Church will host its 15th annual Christmas at the Caroline House Nov. 19-20. An outreach of the church’s Women’s Ministry, the two-day event begins in the Fellowship Hall with a 9:30 a.m. brunch. Guests will be treated to a performance by the Briarwood Ballet, holiday music and a Christmas message from Anita Barker Barnes, daughter of the church’s founding pastor. There will also be a 6:30 p.m. supper on Nov. 19. The event will include holiday activities and tips and 25 centerpieces designed by the Briarwood women. The grand finale will be a Christmas tour of the Caroline House. A shuttle will take guests to the Caroline House from the church, located at Interstate 459 and Acton Road. Tickets are $10 and are available at the Briarwood Bookstore or online at www.briarwood.org/women. For more information, call 776-5311.

Spoken Word Series Nov. 21, 6:30 p.m.

Homewood Public Library The Live @ the Homewood Public Library: Spoken Word Series continues on Nov. 21 with a performance by critically acclaimed storyteller Elizabeth Vander Kamp. At the 6:30 p.m. program in the Round Auditorium, she will weave homespun stories, myths, legends and fairytales into her performances of “Priscilla Tulip Spring is Getting Married” and “Babe’s Back.” The event is presented by the Homewood Arts Council and supported by the city of Homewood. The event is free and open to the public. For more information, visit www.homewoodlibrary.org.

Hoover

Glue Gun Gang Meeting Nov. 21, 10:30 a.m. and 2:30 p.m.

Hoover Public Library The Hoover Public Library’s Glue Gun Gang will meet on Nov. 21 at 10:30 a.m. and 2:30 p.m. to create a holiday craft. The Glue Gun Gang is a new craft group just for adults. This month, the group will make whimsical candycovered topiaries for display during the holidays. Reservations are required.

For more information or to make reservations, call 444-7840.

Vestavia Hills

Town Village Holiday Market Nov. 22, 11 a.m.-2 p.m.

Town Village Retirement Community Town Village Retirement Community invites the public to its annual Holiday Market on Nov. 22. Shoppers can get a head start on their holiday lists at this event, which will run from 11 a.m.-2 p.m.

Town Village Retirement Community is at 2385 Dolly Ridge Road in Vestavia Hills.

Birmingham

United Way Food Drive Nov. 23-24 Birmingham Zoo The Birmingham Zoo will hold a United Way food drive Nov. 23-24. Guests will receive half-price admission when they bring a canned or nonperishable food item to donate to the United Way. The discount is limited to one ticket per guest. For more information, visit www.birminghamzoo. com.

Hoover

Handel’s “Messiah” Nov. 24, 3-5 p.m.

Riverchase UMC The Alabama Civic Chorale will present its 66th annual performance of Handel’s “Messiah” at Riverchase United Methodist Church at 3 p.m. on Nov. 24. The chorus is made up of about 100 people from churches throughout the Birmingham area and the state. The performance is free and open to the public. Riverchase UMC is at 1953 Old Montgomery Highway in Hoover. For more information, visit www. alabamacivicchorale.com.

Homewood

Community Thanksgiving Worship Service Nov. 24, 6 p.m.

Dawson Memorial Baptist Church

The churches of Homewood will celebrate their annual community Thanksgiving worship service at Dawson Memorial Baptist Church at 6 p.m. on Nov. 24. Father Martin Muller, pastor of Our Lady of Sorrows Catholic Church, will deliver the Thanksgiving message. The combined orchestras and adult choirs of Dawson and Trinity United Methodist will present music of the season. Participating churches are All Saints’ Episcopal, Bethel AME, Dawson Memorial Baptist, Edgewood Presbyterian, Friendship Baptist, Homewood Cumberland Presbyterian, Oakmont United Methodist, Our Lady of Sorrows Catholic, Second Presbyterian, Shades Valley Lutheran, Trinity United Methodist and Union Missionary Baptist. For more information, visit www. dawsonchurch.org or call 871-7324.

37th Annual Montclair Run Nov. 28, 8:30 a.m.

LJCC The 37th annual Sam Lapidus Montclair Run will be held on Nov. 28 at the Levite Jewish Community Center.

The 10K will begin at 8:30 a.m., and the one-mile fun run will start at 10 a.m. Registration for the 10K is $30 through Nov. 22 and $36 after that.

Registration for the fun run is $18.

All participants will receive a T-shirt commemorating the Thanksgiving Day event, which this year also coincides with the first day of Hanukkah. Proceeds will benefit the LJCC Sports and Fitness Department and the Alabama Center for Childhood Cancer and Blood Disorders at Children’s of Alabama. For more information or to register, visit www. bhamjcc.org. ❖

Send About Town information to kdrexel@otmj.com

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Thursday, November 14, 2013 • 11

About Town

OVER THE MOUNTAIN Journal

BRONZES • LAMPS • TERRA COTTA

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Play day in Mountain Brook

This Saturday! • November 23rd • 9:00-4:00 Meet the reps and play with the toys. There will be toy manufacturers and representatives available to answer questions and to demonstrate products.

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12 • Thursday, November 14, 2013

people

OVER THE MOUNTAIN Journal

Making an Impact

Westmoreland Is March of Dimes Citizen of the Year

By Ginny Cooper Journal intern

W

hen Dr. Andrew Westmoreland, president of Samford University since 2006, found out he had been named the 2013 March of Dimes Alabama Citizen of the Year, he said he was “rather stunned.”

And although he said that he was “clearly undeserving” of the award, those who know Westmoreland likely would disagree.

Since coming to Birmingham in 2006, Westmoreland has served as honorary chairman for the March of Dimes in 2008 and 2009.

He also was board chairman of the American Heart Association and served on the board of directors for M-Power Ministries, the advisory board of the Greater Birmingham Salvation Army and is a trustee for the Baptist Health System in Birmingham.

Westmoreland is active in the Birmingham Business Alliance and the Rotary Club of Birmingham and regularly volunteers with his wife, Jeanna, at their church, Shades Mountain Baptist.

In 2009, Westmoreland and his friend Dr. Shelley Stewart co-founded the Birmingham Kitchen Table, which hosts dinners and discussions designed “to bring people together to foster positive change,” Westmoreland said.

The mission of the organization aims to “create positive change by encouraging dialogue among diverse people,” he said.

The most rewarding aspect of all of this community involvement, Westmoreland said, is the human dimension.

“Although charities often use statistics to illustrate the magnitude of their work, the memorable pieces to me are always the impact on one life or one family. I suppose that I make sense of the world through stories,” he said.

Westmoreland is a graduate of Ouachita University, where he received a bachelor’s degree in political science in 1979. He earned a master’s degree in political science from the University of Arkansas at Fayetteville and a doctorate in higher education administration from the University of Arkansas at Little Rock.

He later became president of his alma mater, Ouachita Baptist University in Arkadelphia, Ark., before moving to Birmingham in 2006 to become president of Samford University.

Westmoreland said he believes that community service is intrinsically linked to the mission of Samford.

“Our institutional commitment to service cannot be separated from our desire to follow the life and witness of Christ,” he said.

Westmoreland’s vision for the university in the coming years is centered on this philanthropic spirit, he said.

“I think that our shared vision at Samford is to offer an extraordinarily high-quality education at a reasonable price, preparing students with the breadth and depth to meet the needs of a rapidly changing world,” he said. “We have the audacity to say that the world is better

Special Ops

How to Lend a Helping Hand for the Holidays

By Taylor Burgess Journal intern

The holiday season comes and goes so quickly that often we wish we had done more to help someone in need.

Here’s a list of just a few of the opportunities available to those who would like to give back this year: Alabama Rescue Relay

Volunteers are needed to transport dogs overnight from Alabama animal shelters to northern states. Drives usually occur on Saturdays and range from 60-100 miles, saving the lives of many dogs. To volunteer to drive, call Eric Taylor at 256-673-8947.

Barnes & Noble Holiday Charity Book Drive

Donors can bring books to Barnes & Noble at The Summit through Dec. 31. The store hopes to donate 3,000 books to Birmingham Reads, an initiative of Better Basics of Birmingham and the Birmingham Junior League. For more information, call 298-0665.

Birmingham Zoo ZooLight Safari

Volunteers are needed for ZooLight Safari, the Birmingham Zoo’s annual holiday festival set for Dec. 6-8, 13-15, 18-23 and 26-31.

Volunteers can assist with the hay ride, games and other activities. For more information, call 879-0409.

Community Grief Support Services

Bereavement volunteer training will be held at Edgewood Presbyterian Church Nov. 16 from 9 a.m.-3:30 p.m. The church is at 850 Oxmoor Road. For more information, call 870-8667.

Firehouse Shelter

Volunteers are needed to cook and serve meals, complete clerical work and help in the community garden at Firehouse Shelter. Math and basic literacy tutors are also needed to help residents in the Firehouse Shelter apartments. For more information, visit www.firehouseshelter.com or call 252-9571.

First Light Shelter

First Light, a shelter for homeless women and children, will mail greeting card gifts in honor or in remembrance of donors’ loved ones.

To volunteer at the shelter, call 3234277. To make a donation and send a gift, visit firstlightshelter.org/events/ holidaylights.html.

Samford University President Dr. Andrew Westmoreland is the 2013 March of Dimes Alabama Citizen of the Year. Photo special to the Journal

because of Samford, and I see examples every day that the statement is true.”

State Sen. Jabo Waggoner, March of Dimes board member, said he is thrilled to acknowledge Westmoreland as Alabama Citizen of the

Hands on Birmingham

Hands on Birmingham will hold its annual Family Volunteer Day from 8 a.m.-noon on Nov. 23. Sponsored

by Disney’s Friends for Change, Energen and UBS, the event includes family projects at camps, waterways, parks and gardens as well as painting murals and packing snacks for the Ronald McDonald house. For more information, call 458-8934 or visit handsonbirmingham.org/FVD. Home Instead Senior Care

The Home Instead national organization will partner with the Birmingham community for the Be a Santa to a Senior program, which provides gifts and companionship for local needy seniors. The program runs from Nov. 1-Dec. 6. Donors can choose from a list of recommended items to deliver to the Home Instead office at 2059 Columbiana Road, Suite 105 in Vestavia Hills. To volunteer to distribute gifts or for more

Year.

“We truly feel that Dr. Westmoreland and the relationship the March of Dimes shares with Samford University is something to be honored,” Waggoner said. “We can think of no one more deserving to receive this distinguished award this year than our chosen recipient.”

Founded in 1938 by Franklin D. Roosevelt, the March of Dimes is a national voluntary health agency that aims to improve the health of babies through research, community service, education and advocacy.

The March of Dimes has more than $1,000,000 invested in Alabama community programs and research projects focused on prenatal and child health.

The organization recognizes one person annually as the Alabama Citizen of the Year, with recipients ranging from Terry Kellogg, president and CEO of Blue Cross Blue Shield of Alabama, to James C. Lee, chairman and CEO of Buffalo Rock.

Westmoreland had a few suggestions for those looking to volunteer with the March of Dimes or with other organizations in their community.

“Getting involved is easy, but learning where to invest your time and what role to play is more difficult,” he said.

He said the first step is to “determine your own skills and interests.”

Westmoreland also stressed the need for volunteers.

“We live in a beautiful, broken world,” he said, “so opportunities are everywhere.”

To learn more about the March of Dimes, visit marchofdimes.com/Alabama. To learn about other local volunteer opportunities, visit the Alabama Association of Nonprofits at www. alabamanonprofits.org. ❖

information, call 822-1915.

Jimmie Hale Mission

Volunteers can serve meals during the holidays at the Mission’s Shepura Men’s Center and Jessie’s Place for homeless women and children.

Children can decorate holiday placemats that are distributed to the mission’s facilities. To sign up to serve, call 323-5878.

Operation Christmas Child

The Samaritan’s Purse-sponsored annual project will hold its National Collection Week for gift-filled shoeboxes Nov. 18-25. Donors can drop off gifts at any of 20 locations in the Birmingham area. To learn about collections sites and operating hours, call 800-353-5949. To learn how to participate and volunteer, call 915-4241.

Pecans for Autism

Order a variety of candied, chocolate-covered, salted and dipped pecans

Ronald McDonald House

With just seven full-time staff members, the Birmingham Ronald McDonald House relies on volunteers to help answer phones, cook nightly and holiday dinners and help with cleaning and landscaping. For more ways to help the families staying at the Ronald McDonald House this holiday season, visit www.rmhca.org or call 638-7255.

Salvation Army Angel Tree

Donors can sponsor a child in need from Nov. 15-Dec. 7 at Colonial Brookwood Village. Approximately 7,000 children need sponsorship this holiday season. For more information, call the Birmingham Salvation Army at 328-2420 or visit birminghamsalvationarmy@gmail.com.

Toys for Tots

Habitat for Humanity Greater Birmingham

In December, Habitat for Humanity will host its annual Home for the Holidays house build. Over 10 days, 10 organizations will provide volunteers to build a new home for a deserving Birmingham family. To learn more or to volunteer an organization, call 780-1234.

this holiday season to support autism.

Glenwood Autism and Behavioral Center started selling pecans to support its program more than 35 years ago. Custom gift packaging is available. For more information or to place an order, visit www.glenwood.org or call 729-2189.

Last year, Over the Mountain students joined other area teens to help with the Salvation Army Angel Tree project at the old Century Plaza in Birmingham.

Journal photo by Keysha Drexel

Toys for Tots, a U.S. Marine Corps program that distributes toys to underprivileged children, needs volunteers to unload, sort, bag, tag and carry toys. On Dec. 7, 9, 10, 11 and 12, volunteers can meet at the YMCA of Greater Birmingham to assist. For more information, contact David Hill at 801-7209 or dhill@ymcabham. org. ❖

Hoover Resident Wins National Award A Hoover resident has received one of only 11 awards presented nationally by a business honor society.

Katie Hamner, a senior at Judson College and former student at Indian Springs School in North Shelby, recently received a fellowship award from Sigma Beta Delta, an international honor society recognizing and promoting Katie Hamner achievement in business, management and administration.

Hamner is the third Judson College student to receive the honor in the last three years.

Although Hamner started out as a science major and business minor, she said she realized she enjoyed and excelled in her business classes even more than her science classes.

At the beginning of her junior year, she changed her major to business and her minors to biology and accounting.

With the minor in accounting, she will complete the prerequisites for a master of accountancy degree and be able to start graduate school immediately after graduating in December 2014.

At Judson, Hamner is a member of Tri Beta, the biology honor society, and the Business Club. She was an officer in the Science Club, a Student Government Association representative and a member of the Social Committee.

Hamner said she plans to continue her commitment to her community after she finishes her education.

“As an accountant, I can assist many underprivileged and underserved people who do not understand how to do their books or taxes but cannot afford to pay an accountant to help them,” she said.

Hamner said she plans to use the $1,000 scholarship to help pay for graduate school, where she plans to pursue a master’s degree in business administration and a master of accountancy degree and to sit for the CPA exams before possibly going on to law school.

OLS Pastor Pens Book Parishioners at Our Lady of Sorrows Church in Homewood have a new source of inspiration for their spiritual journeys.

OLS Pastor Rev. Msgr. Martin M. Muller has written a book called “Letters from the Pastor’s Desk,” which he has been discussing with his adult education classes. He also handed out copies of the books to those in the classes.

“We owe our thanks to God for many things,” Muller said. “Today, I thank Him that this book is completed.”

Muller said the book’s 50 chapters are based on his columns that appear in the OLS Sunday bulletin.

“If it hadn’t been for this parish, I would have never written this book,” Muller said. “I’ve been a pastor for 25 years. That comes out to 1,300 topics.”

All of his writings have a spiritual aspect, “whether it’s about baptism, whether it’s about confirmation, whether

Thursday, November 14, 2013 • 13

people

OVER THE MOUNTAIN Journal

it’s about Christmas, whether it’s about Lent, whether it’s about the spirituality of evolution or ecumenism. There’s got to be the spiritual aspect to it,” he said.

Muller shared his tips for writing with those in his classes.

“If you’re going to be a writer, ask (for) God’s help,” he said.

Muller said using an “economy of words” and rewriting are all part of the writing process.

Topics in the 50 short essays in the book cover everything from entitlement to prayer to sacraments to gratitude.

Muller also took the photos used on both covers of the new book.

This is Muller’s second book. He wrote his first book in 1960.

Vestavia Hills Trio Tackles Triathlon in Nashville

From left: Mary Rembert, Mary Coleman Allen and Mary Kathryn Allen of Vestavia Hills. participated in the Music City Triathlon in Tennessee.

Three Vestavia Hills women recently teamed up to tackle a triathlon.

Mary Kathryn Allen and her daughter Mary Coleman Allen joined Mary Rembert to participate in this year’s Music City Triathlon in Nashville.

The swimming, biking and running event has been held in downtown Nashville for six years. The triatholon has been a tradition for 36 years.

Mary Coleman placed first in her age division in the triathlon.

She is a 2013 graduate of Vestavia Hills High School and a freshman at Auburn University.

Photo special to the Journal

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14 • Thursday, November 14, 2013

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OVER THE MOUNTAIN Journal

Holiday Open House Sale Nov. 25th - Dec. 23rd

Lisa Ramirez, center, recently won the Christian & Smalls LLP Cumberland Diversity Scholar Award.She is pictured with Judge John L. Carroll, left, and Deborah Alley Smith. Photo special to the Journal

Cahaba Heights Resident Wins Diversity Scholar Award from Law Firm A law student from Cahaba Heights recently won a $5,000 award for her commitment to diversity in the legal field.

Lisa Ramirez was awarded the second annual Christian & Smalls LLP Cumberland Diversity Scholar Award, which is given to a second-year law student.

In addition to the academic scholarship award, Christian & Smalls attorneys will serve as mentors to Ramirez through her studies at Cumberland School of Law and as she begins her professional career.

“Our firm is proud of its culture of diversity and inclusion which has led to increased opportunities for diverse 2410 5th Avenue South • Birmingham, AL 35233 lawyers to excel and thrive and has placed diverse lawyers in positions (205) 320-0500 • www.5thavenueantiques.com of leadership,” said Deborah Alley Smith, managing partner at Christian & Z^ Small. “Lisa is a wonderful example of

Ϭ z SKA! academic success and commitment to ϯ

' ALA E / the community.” d G Z URIN Ramirez graduated from Mansfield

> F TO University in Mansfield, Pa., and is a O To: Heath Dean’s List student at Cumberland.

From: Over The Mountain Journal, 205-823-9646 ph., She is vice president of the Hispanic 205-824-1246, fax Interest Law Student Association that strives to promote the understanding Date: Nov. 2013 and awareness of the Hispanic/Latino “Alaska’s Operator ofOver the Year ” This is yourTour aD prOOF from the THe MOuNTaiN JOurNal theissues facing these culture and thefor legal -Anchorage Visitors Bureau or changes communities in the Birmingham metro Nov. 14,Convention 2013 issue. & please fax approval to 824-1246. ůĂƐŬĂ͛Ɛ ƉƌĞŵŝĞƌ ƚŽƵƌ ŽƉĞƌĂƚŽƌ ŽīĞƌŝŶŐ ŽŶĞͲŽĨͲĂͲŬŝŶĚ ĂĚǀĞŶƚƵƌĞƐ ŽŶ ŽƵƌ area. ĂůůͲŝŶĐůƵƐŝǀĞ ŝƟŶĞƌĂƌŝĞƐ ĨĞĂƚƵƌŝŶŐ ůĂƐŬĂ͕ ƚŚĞ zƵŬŽŶ dĞƌƌŝƚŽƌŝĞƐ Θ ƚŚĞ ĂŶĂĚŝĂŶ ZŽĐŬŝĞƐ͘ This summer, Ramirez clerked at the WE GUARANTEE WILDLIFE! Freddy Rubio Law Firm.

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The Hon. Judge John L. Carroll, ƩĞŶĚ ŽŶĞ ŽĨ ŽƵƌ Free͕ /ŶĨŽƌŵĂƟǀĞ dƌĂǀĞů ^ŚŽǁƐ ĂŶĚ ůĞĂƌŶ dean and professor at Cumberland ƚŚĞ FACTS ĂďŽƵƚ ůĂƐŬĂ ƚƌĂǀĞů͊ EŽ ƌĞƐĞƌǀĂƟŽŶƐ ƌĞƋƵŝƌĞĚ͘ School of Law, said he appreciated the Register at the show to WIN a 14-Day Denali Explorer Land & Cruise Package! firm investing in promising students like Ramirez.

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Samford University Honors Crestline Resident A Crestline resident has been honored for his service to Samford University.

William A. Nunnelley, director of public relations and senior editor,

received the 2013 President’s Award from Samford.

The award is given each year to a non-faculty employee whose “service regularly and consistently exceeds expectations and has reflected a high level of services, trustworthiness and respect,” according to university officials.

Nunnelley, who received two degrees from Samford, first joined the staff in 1964 and has served in a variety of public relations-related capacities, including sports information. In 1984, he developed and implemented the concepts for “Seasons,” the university’s quarterly news magazine, and has served as the publication’s only editor.

Samford’s Provost and Executive Vice President J. Bradley Creed said Nunnelley had won numerous national awards for his work, including two major national awards in 2013 from the Religion Communicators Council.

“I think the William Nunnelly fact that this individual was the immediate and top choice of everyone on the selection committee in some small way affirms what is a lifetime achievement award,” Creed said. “He is respected by colleagues across the campus, by media representatives across the U.S. and by a broad spectrum of community leaders.”

Quoting the nomination that was submitted for Nunnelley, Creed said, “It would be very easy to say, ‘Well, he was just doing his job.’ But, that would be a great misrepresentation of the contributions that he has quietly but effectively contributed to the university’s overall mission.”

Mountain Brook Resident Wins Blount Scholarship Faulkner Hereford of Mountain Brook is the recipient of one of the eight highest academic scholarships offered at the University of Alabama.

Hereford, a freshman at UA, was awarded the Blount Presidential Scholarship based on his academic, extracurricular, service and leadership achievements.

He was also selected as one of 26 incoming freshman University Fellows who participate in a program to promote the most able and dedicated students for leadership and service to

their community. He is a recipient of the Presidential Scholarship, Alumni Heritage Scholarship and the Alumni Scholar Award.

Hereford attended boarding school at Woodberry Forest School in Orange, Va., where he served as the Deputy Senior Prefect, the second highest student position. He was a two-year captain of the school’s varsity tennis team and academic team and captain of the varsity squash team.

Hereford served as the editor of the school newspaper and as assistant editor for the school yearbook, played piano in the Woodberry Forest Jazz Band and was a ropes course instructor.

Faulkner Hereford, right, of Mountain Brook, accepts an award from the head of Woodberry Forest School. Photo special to the Journal During boarding school, Hereford maintained his membership as a Boy Scout with Birmingham’s Troop 28 of Independent Presbyterian Church, reaching the rank of Eagle Scout in 2012.

Hereford graduated summa cum laude and was the school’s recipient of the Outstanding English Student Award and the William Arnold Campbell Award for Academics, Leadership and Character.

He is the son of Will and Laurie Hereford.

OTM Residents Win Phi Kappa Phi Award Two Over the Mountain residents have been honored by the nation’s oldest and most selective collegiate honor society for all academic disciplines.

Jennifer Fuller of Homewood and Cathryn Snow of Hoover are recipients of Phi Kappa Phi’s 2013 Love of Learning Awards.

The Phi Kappa Phi Love of Cathryn Snow Learning Award program was initiated in 2007 to help fund graduate or professional studies, doctoral dissertations, continuing education, career development and travel related to teaching and studies for active Society members.

The Phi Kappa Phi Love of Learning Award program grants $1 million each biennium to qualifying students and members. The funds are given through graduate fellowships, undergraduate study abroad grants, member and chapter awards and grants for local and national literacy initiatives.

Thursday, November 14, 2013 • 15

people

OVER THE MOUNTAIN Journal

Chess Tournament Winners Recognized Students in kindergarten through the 12th grade recently had a chance to showcase their chess skills at an annual tournament at the Emmet O’Neal Library in Mountain Brook.

Players competed for top honors in three age categories.

Parent volunteers helped with the event.

Many of the competitors in the tournament brushed up on their skills at the library’s weekly Chess Club meetings with coach Balagee Govindan.

The winner in the K-12 division was Cesar Juarez. Kapil Nathan finished in the top spot in the K-6 division, and Andrew Robertson took home first place in the K-3 tournament division.

Other K-3 winners were Omer Duvdevani, Nikhita Chintareddy, Aniteja Ponna, Lyle Barrocas and Henry Russell.

Rahul Boddupalli, Jordan De Los Santos, Mason Berger, Ravi Kiran and Ethan Shunnarah were the other winners in K-6 competition.

The other winners in the K-12 division were Zach Shunnarah and Gregory Murray.

Bell Center Names New Board Members The Bell Center for Early Intervention has added six new members to its board of directors.

The new members are Sonya DiCarlo, special projects reporter, CBS 42; Bill Holbrook, chief operating officer, Sterne Agee Group Inc.; Kim Lepley,

The winners of a chess tournament at Emmet O’Neal Library in Mountain Brook celebrate their victory. Front, from left: Rahul Boddupalli, Kapil Nathan, Andrew Robertson, Jordan De Los Santos, Omer Duvdevani, Aniteja Ponna, Lyle Barrocas, Henry Russell, Ethan Shunnarah and Nikhita Chintareddy.

Back: Mason Berger, library staff member Marie Carlisle, chess coach Balagee Govindan, Cesar Juarez, Zach Shunnarah, Gregory Murray and Ravi Kiran. Photo special to the Journal financial advisor, Merrill Lynch; Stacey Morales, president-elect, Service Guild of Birmingham; Bill Niketas, chief financial officer, Aggregates USA; Donna Smith, executive business director, Jim ‘N Nick’s Community Bar-B-Q; and Houston Smith, director of public relations, Alabama Power Company.

Wayne Miller of Miller Valve and Control is president of the center’s board of directors. Other board members are Trey Clegg, regional vice president, Brasfield & Gorrie; Jim Delk, president, Ligon Industries LLC; Nancy Ferren, president, Service Guild of Birmingham; John Grimes, community volunteer; Jeff Hicks, chief financial officer, RamTool; Jennifer Kilgo, professor and director of graduate programs in Early

Intervention/Early Childhood Special Education, University of Alabama at Birmingham; Libby Lassiter, executive vice president, Bayer Properties; Scott McCrory, president, Alabama Outdoors; Christie Mundy, adviser, Service Guild of Birmingham; Delane Myers, senior audit manager, KPMG LLC; Lee Perry, owner, Perry Design; Andy Rotenstreich, partner, Baker Donelson; Scott Shunnarah, district manager, Farmers Insurance; Caroline Sirkin, memberat-large, Service Guild of Birmingham; and Alice Womack, vice president, First Commercial Bank.

The Bell Center for Early Intervention provides services to infants and toddlers who are at risk for developmental delay.

About 100 children receive services at The Bell Center each year. ❖

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This is your AD PrOOF from the OvEr THE MOuNTAiN JOurNAl for the Nov. 14, 2013 issue. Please fax approval or changes to 824-1246.

Please make sure all information is correct, including address and phone number!

Please initial and fax back within 24 hours.

if we have not heard from you by 5 pm of the Friday before the press date, your ad will ru as is. We print the paper Monday.

Thank you for your prompt attention.

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16 • Thursday, November 14, 2013

u Over the Mountain

DeMarco Announces Candidacy for Bachus’ Seat

By William C. Singleton III Journal contributor

Republican State Rep. Paul DeMarco says he’s ready to represent the Over the Mountain community and much of central Alabama in Washington, D.C. A state legislator since 2005, DeMarco, 46, recently announced his plans to run for Alabama’s Sixth Congressional District, joining two other Republicans who hope to win the seat being vacated by U.S. Rep. Spencer Bachus.

“I’ve lived in this area my whole life. My family’s here,” DeMarco said. “I’ve been educated here. I share the dedication to make this a good place to live. I understand some of the difficulties small businesses have with some of the issues going on in Washington, D.C. I understand that economic development issues are important to job creation. So I take those issues and the work I’ve done at the state level and will represent our district at the national level.”

Chad Mathis, an Indian Springs orthopedic surgeon, and Gary Palmer, the Alabama Policy Institute’s chief development officer, have also thrown their hats into the race.

The official qualifying date isn’t until April. The Republican primary is scheduled for June 3.

The Sixth Congressional District includes parts of Jefferson, Shelby, Bibb, Chilton, Coosa, St. Clair and Tuscaloosa counties and surrounds Birmingham.

Political analysts expect several Republican hopefuls to flood the race with the veteran Bachus announcing

he is not seeking another term.

After more than 20 years in Congress, Bachus said in a prepared statement that it is time to move on.

“It is an Paul DeMarco honor that I never dreamed could have been possible for me, and the words ‘thank you’ are far from adequate,” said Bachus, who was first elected to Congress in 1992. “But as Ecclesiastes 3 says, ‘To everything there is a season,’ and I feel in my heart that now is the time for me to announce this decision and allow others to have the opportunity to serve.”

DeMarco was first chosen as state representative for District 46–which includes portions of Jefferson and Shelby counties, including the Over the Mountain communities–in a 2005 special election when Mark Gaines vacated the seat for an appointment as Jefferson County Probate Judge.

DeMarco was reelected in 2006 and 2010. He is chairman of the House Judiciary Committee and the Joint Oversight Committee for Alabama Homeland Security. He also serves as co-chairman of the Jefferson County House Delegation.

DeMarco said he believes his “conservative, reform-minded principles are now needed in Congress.”

“I have supported common sense and practical ways to make local and state government work best for the

people of Alabama,” he said.

For example, DeMarco said he sponsored legislation to create a county-manager form of government in Jefferson County. The idea behind the legislation was to hire a professional to run the daily operations of government rather than rely on elected officials who may not have the time or expertise to oversee the operation of county government.

“We had structural problems in how we operated and that (the county-manager form of government) is an important part of the reforms we’ve had here in Jefferson County to move forward,” DeMarco said.

DeMarco also sponsored legislation to make county government more transparent by requiring that the state auditor keep a searchable public database of state property valued at more than $499.

“Those same reform-minded principles are now needed in Congress because we have structural problems the way government operates in Washington, D.C.,” he said.

DeMarco said he plans to spend his time talking to the people of the district about their concerns.

“The good ideas do not come from the State Capitol or the United States Capitol, but the folks back home,” he said.

DeMarco is a partner in the law firm of Parsons, Lee and Juliano, P.C. He graduated from Auburn University in 1990 and received his law degree from the University of Alabama in 1993.

He and his wife, Jacqueline, live in Homewood. ❖

Former Miss Alabama Running for State House Seat Journal intern

A mother of four from Inverness recently announced she will run for a seat in the Alabama House of Representatives.

Amie Beth Shaver, a conservative activist, author and speaker, will run for the Alabama House District 43 seat in the June 2014 Republican primary.

Amie Beth Shaver District 43 includes the Valleydale and Riverchase areas

u Vestavia Hills

City Hopes Plan Spurs Action at Patchwork Farms

By William C. Singleton III Journal contributor

Vestavia Hills city officials hope a new conceptual plan will spark development of the remaining undeveloped portions of Patchwork Farms.

The City Council recently voted to allow the city manager to enter an agreement with Goodwyn, Mills, Cawood, Inc. and The Image Network, Inc. to develop a conceptual plan for Patchwork Farms.

According to the resolution, the consultants must receive input from stakeholders through a public meeting. City Manager Jeff Downes said three public meetings are tentatively scheduled for Dec. 11, 12 and 13, though more details will be forthcoming.

The agreement states that consulting fees should not exceed $28,000.

Patchwork Farms consists of more than 80 acres between Cahaba River and Caldwell Mill roads. The city had originally designed the area for retail shops, sports fields, a park, homes and a future school. However, those plans have changed over the years.

The city instead built sports fields off Sicard Hollow Road, across from the Liberty Park Sports Complex.

School officials have said they’re no longer interested in building a facility on their 22 acres.

Plans for homes on a portion of the property have since been abandoned. And the recent recession has chilled significant development interest in the property.

Instead of focusing on retail development, the city has shifted more

toward health and medical-related businesses. LifeTime Fitness has built a fitness center on 16 acres it owns, and Northport Holding has closed on the purchase of seven acres where it has proposed a 70,000-square-foot, 120-bed nursing facility.

A similar deal to sell seven acres to Capital Growth MedVest LLC so that Brookwood Medical Center could build a 50-bed rehabilitation facility and geriatric psychiatric unit has fallen through.

The city has more than 55 acres of the property undeveloped, including the school system’s portion.

With so much uncertainty regarding the direction of the property, the city needed a new approach, Downes said.

“Trying to establish a comprehensive vision of what would be supported in the area is crucial,” he said.

“It will get rid of uncertainties that kill deals.”

Hopefully, what will come from the meetings and the consultants is a comprehensive design process for the undeveloped land, Downes said.

The current plan has no information on what buildings should look like, how to coordinate traffic and transportation in the area and how other developments will impact the fitness center and the nursing facility, the city manager said.

“We need to come to some clarity (on what to do with the undeveloped Patchworks Farm property) and do that in an inclusive manner,” Downes said. “The deliverable of this will be a document that will be the working plan in all the efforts to bring energy to that site.” ❖

u hoover

Crews Clean Up Lake at Georgetown Park

u North Shelby

By Taylor Burgess

OVER THE MOUNTAIN Journal

of Shelby County and part of the Altadena neighborhood in Jefferson County.

Republican Mary Sue McClurkin now holds the seat but announced that she would not seek re-election in 2014. McClurkin, an Indian Springs resident, has held the post since 1998.

Shaver, who grew up in Shelby County and graduated from Samford University, announced her candidacy on Nov. 5 through a YouTube web spot titled “Come Along.” In the spot, Shaver described her platform, which hinges on the importance of reducing wasteful government spending.

Shaver describes her position on other social issues, including abortion, adoption, teen pregnancy, motherhood and faith, in her book “Who Moved the Line? America’s Character Crisis,” which she publicized on a

national speaking tour.

In 1994, Shaver became Miss Alabama with a platform centered on adoption. She has also been a spokeswoman for conservative Alabama grassroots organizations and is a frequent guest on conservative talk radio shows.

Shaver is the adopted daughter of Dr. Douglas Dickinson, a gastroenterologist at Brookwood Medical Center, and Barbara Dickinson.

She has been married for 16 years to Dr. Chris Shaver, a gastroenterologist at Birmingham Gastroenterology Associates in Homewood.

The couple’s children are 14-yearold Emmy, 12-year-old Wesley Kate, 10-year-old Will and 6-yearold Mollie. The family attends The Church at Brook Hills. ❖

The ducks at Georgetown Park are finding swimming spots scarce these days as the city of Hoover continues renovation efforts there.

In October, crews started draining water from the three-acre lake at Georgetown Park, located off Lorna Road between the Monte D’oro and Chapel Hills neighborhoods, Mayor Gary Ivey said.

“That lake hasn’t been dredged in a while, and it’s all part of our efforts to make our neighborhood parks better,” he said.

The project to clean up the lake at Georgetown Park is being done mostly by city crews, Ivey said.

“Most of it is being done with our people, so you don’t end up with hard numbers (for the project),” he said.

In May, the city replaced all of the playground equipment at Georgetown Park to create a handicapped-accessible playground. The playground area now has a “poured in place” rubberized safety surface along with new

swings and other equipment.

That project cost the city about $117,400 and made the playground at Georgetown Park one of several handicapped-accessible parks in Hoover.

The others are at Loch Haven Park, Veterans Park on Valleydale Road, Sertoma Park behind Green Valley Elementary School and the play area near Shades Mountain Elementary School.

Hoover also spent $180,000 to upgrade Hoover Central Park, located at 3468 Chapel Lane, with seven lighted baseball/softball fields, a track, playground, concession stand, restrooms, press boxes and a football/ soccer field.

It had been about 20 years since Hoover Central Park had any major renovations, Ivey said.

Depending on the weather, Ivey said, crews could finish the project at the Georgetown Park lake in four to --Keysha Drexel six weeks. ❖

Thursday, November 14, 2013 • 17

NEWS

OVER THE MOUNTAIN Journal

Crestline Says Goodbye to The Pig u Mountain Brook

By William C. Singleton III Journal contributor

Hundreds of Mountain Brook residents on Nov. 3 said their final farewells to their neighborhood Piggly Wiggly store and the employees who made their grocery shopping enjoyable for the past 30 years.

Though sad at the store’s closing, residents and employees were determined not to go out on a sour note.

Instead, they gathered in the parking lot of the Crestline Piggly Wiggly store at 93 Euclid Ave. and enjoyed home-cooked dishes provided by residents and barbecued ribs and chicken provided by Piggly Wiggly. They chanted “Long Live the Pig,” cheered as the store’s 60 employees were called forward to receive a monetary gift of $254 each as a token of the community’s appreciation and reminisced about good times.

“I would just like to say thank you for allowing me to be a part of your Crestline community,” said Arrelia Callins, a beloved Piggly Wiggly cashier for more than 30 years. “I have thoroughly enjoyed the years that I have been here.”

After Callins spoke, several Mountain Brook residents waited patiently in line to hug her and wish her well.

“I want to hear about your first date,” Callins said to 12-year-old Hannah Doss.

The Piggly Wiggly store, which has served Mountain Brook’s Crestline community since 1983, closed its doors at 6 p.m. Nov. 2 despite a “Save the Crestline Pig” campaign that included online petitions, several community meetings and an appearance at the City Council meeting.

Piggly Wiggly’s lease was set to expire on Nov. 30. Andy Virciglio, co-owner of Piggly Wiggly Food Stores of Jefferson County Inc., had tried to renegotiate a new lease with the owners of the Piggly Wiggly building--the Scott family--but the two couldn’t come to an agreement.

Residents have said the Scotts want to lease the space to a Walgreens, CVS Pharmacy or some other pharmacy.

Mountain Brook Mayor Terry Oden, who attended the “Party at the Pig” farewell celebration, said he doesn’t know what’s next for the space Piggly Wiggly has vacated.

“I don’t know, and I don’t know anybody else who knows except for the people who own the property, and they’re not talking,” he said.

Many neighbors said they hope a new grocery store takes the place of the Piggly Wiggly because the nearest grocer is nearly a mile and a half away in Mountain Brook Village.

“There are a lot of people who live around here who don’t drive, and the only way they can get to a grocery store is to walk,” Mountain Brook resident Downs Campbell, 65, said.

“Hopefully, they’ll find some land real soon and rebuild a store and put it back in the community.”

Crestline Piggly Wiggly owners Stanley Virciglio, right, and his son Andy Virciglio at the event at store, which closed on Nov. 2. Journal photo by Maury Wald

replace, he said.

“The employees who I worked with, they’re my sisters and brothers, and the community, we’ve been family for so many years,” Jones said.

“It’s just been a blessing to work with them, to serve them.”

Frank Campbell, now a store manager with the Piggly Wiggly in Homewood, said the outpouring of support illustrates the special relationship between Crestline and its Piggly Wiggly store. The community raised $15,240, which was divided among the store’s 60 employees.

“It started off being a job and formed into a beautiful relationship with the community,” Campbell said.

“They might do something else in this spot, but it will never be like this.

This is a once-in-a-lifetime thing. The bond that the community and store have, it’s not like any other place I’ve worked.” ❖

Help for those dealing with grief during the holidays Surviving the Holidays

Hannah Doss, left, says goodbye to longtime Piggly Wiggly cashier, Arrelia Callins.

Piggly Wiggly employee Reeves Barclay, left, with longtime customer Marsha Meadows.

Journal photo by William C. Singleton III

Journal photo by Maury Wald

But even if a new store rises from the void left by Piggly Wiggly, residents and employees say it won’t be the same.

“It is going to be hard to recapture what we had here,” said Katherine Cole, 56, as a tear rolled down her cheek. “We realized we really do have a family inside the grocery store. It’s not just a grocery store. We weren’t just buying groceries. We were estab-

lishing friendships and relationships.

Some of us came in here when we were children and now we’re grown, and most of the people who work here remember that.”

Mack Jones, 39, an employee with the Crestline Piggly Wiggly for 21 years, has found a job with the Piggly Wiggly store in Homewood, as have many of his co-workers.

But the memories will be hard to

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life

18 • Thursday, November 14, 2013

OVER THE MOUNTAIN Journal

Lisa Rutherford’s dining room table is ready for a Thanksgiving feast. Thanksgiving decorations include figurines like these porcelain Pilgrims and Indians. Rutherford uses a silver service set as a place to perch seasonal pumpkins and berries. Catherine Pittman Smith

Thanksgiving Trimmings Mountain Brook Home Is Filled with Bountiful Decorations

By Keysha Drexel

W

Journal editor

hile most people save the major decorating for the Christmas season, one Mountain Brook mom pulls out all the stops for every holiday--including Thanksgiving.

And now Lisa Rutherford has teamed up with an Over the Mountain photographer to capture her seasonal decorations in a keepsake book she hopes her family will treasure for years to come.

Catherine Pittman Smith, the owner of Catherine Pittman Smith Photography in Mountain Brook, uses her photography and storytelling skills to create custom coffee table books of her clients’ homes, vacation homes or other special places.

Last year, Smith, who lives in Homewood, created a custom coffee table book of Rutherford’s 1984 Georgianstyle home on Brookwood Trace.

“We were all just blown away by her work,” Rutherford said. “She really captured the soul of the house and brought it all together in the book in such a beautiful way.”

Rutherford and Smith got to know each other when the photographer came over for several photo sessions to

Camera-ready

Homewood Photographer Tells Stories with Her Pictures Catherine Pittman Smith said she can’t remember a time when she wasn’t fascinated by photography.

The Homewood photographer and owner of Catherine Smith Photography in Mountain Brook has been telling stories with her camera since she was a young girl growing up in Crestline.

“We went on a family trip to Charleston, South Carolina, in 1979, and I borrowed my father’s camera and just never really gave it

capture the home Rutherford has shared with her husband, Robert, and their sons, Bobby and John, for 17 years.

“This is where my boys grew up, where we built our lives, and to have Catherine be able to capture our family history in the book was just amazing,” Rutherford said.

While shooting photos for the first book, Smith said, she noticed how Rutherford liked to deck the halls for every major holiday in the calendar year.

“That’s how we came up with the idea for a second, smaller book to show all the decorations I do throughout the four seasons every year,” Rutherford said.

This year, Smith has photographed Rutherford’s elaborate decorations for Valentine’s Day, Easter, Independence Day and Halloween.

Rutherford, who grew up in Vestavia Hills, said she gets her love of celebrating the holidays from her mother and her grandmother.

“They loved to decorate. My grandmother didn’t have a lot, but she always put up something festive for every holiday, and that just became part of me, my family history, and it was something I wanted to carry on when I had my own family,” she said.

Rutherford said it doesn’t really feel like a holiday unless she breaks out the decorations.

“I can do it all pretty quickly now, but the

back,” she said.

Smith received a bachelor’s degree in history and English from Converse College and worked in public relations and marketing for several years.

But she never put down her camera.

“Capturing compelling images for over 20 years has been my job description, and my photography has always told a story, whether in my fine art work, portrait or wedding photography,” she said.

After being laid off from her public relations and marketing job in

‘Every year, when I pack up

Thanksgiving and the decorations from each Christmas decoraholiday, I think about what tions take the lonmight happen in the next gest,” she said.

For Thanksgiving, year before I pull them out Rutherford fills every again. It really makes you nook and cranny of stop and think about how her five-bedroom every holiday we spend home with items together is precious. That’s that reflect the first Thanksgiving, the really something to be blessings of abunthankful for.’ dant food and the Lisa Rutherford changing autumnal landscape.

“I’ve collected lots of turkeys and Pilgrims and Indians over the years, and gourds are a must-have for decorating at this time of the year. I have this embroidered turkey pillow that is one of the first things to come out each year for Thanksgiving,” she said.

Rutherford’s Thanksgiving collection includes tons of tiny Limoges porcelain pieces and salt and pepper shakers in a stunning variety of styles and shapes.

See Thanksgiving, page 20

2010, Smith said she decided to take a leap of faith and go into business for herself.

“It was a scary decision, but I stepped out in faith, and it has really turned into something meaningful,” she said.

Smith said her favorite part of her job is building relationships with clients like Lisa Rutherford.

“For me, it’s all about the relationships and capturing those moments for my clients,” she said.

“I feel very fortunate to be a part of those family memories.”

Smith said she decided to draw on her love of storytelling with her latest venture, creating custom coffee table books.

See smith, page 20

20 • Thursday, November 14, 2013

Finally!!!

A GLUTEN FREE

Bakery in Birmingham

The Funky Muffin opened July 2, 2013. We are the only 100% dedicated Gluten Free facility in the Birmingham area at this time,” says owner Carol Key. The Funky Muffin offers its name sake muffin, along with sandwich breads, pies, cakes, cupcakes, cookies and more.

“I felt the need to open a gluten free bakery so those that have to eat a gluten free diet, or even those that choose to eat this way, can have a place where they know there is no cross-contamination with regular foods.”

“For the holidays we are making gluten-free cornbread dressing. It can be special ordered for Thanksgiving or Christmas.

We will also be doing holiday pies like, sweet potato, pumpkin etc. We will have 2 sizes of dressing for you to choose from. The small size, serving up to 6 people is $20.00. The large size, serving up to 10 people is $32.00. In order to have the dressing for Thanksgiving please place your order by November 20th.”

“Come by and see us today!”

life “The trick is to store the decorations in the rooms where you are going to use them. In all of my rooms, I have areas where I store the decorations by occasion, and then all I have to do is pull them out and place them in those rooms,” she said.

Rutherford said she’s constantly changing up the look of her decor with the seasonal touches and adding new things all the time.

“It doesn’t matter if it’s the middle of summer, if I see something that will work for Thanksgiving, I get it,” she said. “It’s all about surrounding yourself with the little touches that make you smile.”

But Rutherford said her holiday decorating is also about much more than making her house beautiful for family and friends.

It’s also about marking the passage of time and celebrating every season she gets to spend with loved ones, she said.

“Every year, when I pack up the decorations from each holiday, I think about what might happen in the next year before I pull them out again,” she said. “It really makes you stop and think about how every holiday we spend together is precious. That’s really something to be thankful for.” ❖

thanksgiving From page 18

(Behind Full Moon and Next to Schaeffer Eye Center)

Look For the Blue “Gluten Free Bakery” Sign

thefunkymuffinbakery.com

205-408-9825

Tasty Holiday Hits

Virginia Hornbuckle came up with some favorite side dishes which might work well for your Thanksgiving table.

While casseroles are usually popular, consider serving a salad, too, Hornbuckle said. It’s nice to have a light option amidst all the rich food.

For more recipes or information, check out www.emeals.com or email Hornbuckle at hornbucklehomemade@yahoo.com.

“Yes, I love, love salt and pepper shakers, and every year, I have to explain to my family that they’re for decorative purposes only,” she said, laughing.

And while she enjoys shopping at Chickadee and other Over the Mountain retailers to add to her decorations collection, Rutherford said her most prized Thanksgiving decoration probably cost a quarter.

“It’s just this little turkey candle Turnip Green and Apple Salad that used to be my grandmother’s. It’s with Warm Bacon Vinaigrette probably 60 years old and maybe cost Makes approximately 10 to 12 servings 25 cents when she bought it, but it’s 6 slices bacon something I always remember being 1 ½ tablespoons harvest ground in her house at Thanksgiving, and so it mustard means a lot to me,” she said. ¼ cup light brown sugar Although her husband and her sons 3 tablespoons apple cider vinegar have kidded her about her holiday dec½ teaspoon salt oration over the years, Rutherford said 1 teaspoon black pepper she knows they appreciate her efforts.

10 cups sliced fresh turnip greens, “I think they would probably washed and dried 2 Braeburn apples, cored and sliced freak out if they came home for ½ cup pecan halves Thanksgiving and there were no deco½ cup sweetened dried cranberries rations out. I think they would miss it,” she said.

Cook bacon in a large skillet over Rutherford’s older son, Bobby, is medium heat until crispy; drain on paper 24 and works at JP Morgan in New towels.

Reserve 3 tablespoons bacon York City. Her younger son, John, is grease in skillet.

21 and is studying building science Add mustard to warm bacon grease, at Auburn University. The family whisking to combine. Add brown also has a 9-year-old golden retriever sugar to mustard mixture, whisking to named Ginger.

From page 18 combine. Slowly add vinegar to mustard “Now that the boys aren’t living at mixture, whisking to combine. Add salt home anymore, I especially appreciate In addition to the book on and pepper, whisking well.

Thanksgiving and any chance there is Rutherford’s house through four Place turnip greens, apple, pecans, for all of us to be together,” she said. seasons of holiday decorating, Smith and cranberries in a large heat-proof “I feel like putting up the decorations said she is also working on a book for a bowl. is a way to make it feel like home man who is battling cancer.

Pour bacon vinaigrette over greens when they get here.”

“He wants to be photographed with Rutherford said she believes the each of his children, and this is really details are important when decoratthe story of his life,” she said. “It’s ing for Thanksgiving or for any other humbling to be able to help him tell his holiday. story.”

Virginia Hornbuckle recently put “You want big, statement pieces, Smith is also working on a coffee on a holiday entertaining workshop but you also want plenty of little table book for a family’s plantation-style for PALS, which raises money for the vignettes and interesting things in the home in Alabama’s Black Belt. children’s department at Vestavia’s corners, on the mantles, pretty much Smith said her work is influenced Library in the Forest. She’s an active everywhere,” she said. by her Southern roots, her social member of the group, she said.

Rutherford To: said SmithKelly also has an conscience and her appreciation for “PALS has lots of good events,” eye for those kind of details. literature and history and that205-823-9646 she is she said. She advised visiting the From: Over The Mountain Journal, PHONE: “I think that’s why weFAX: clicked inspired by God. group’s website, www.librarypals.org, 205-824-1246 immediately and why I love her work Her work has been published in to find out about more workshops and Date: Nov. so much,” Rutherford said. “Catherine Flower Magazine and Birmingham fundraisers. understands the importance details Home and Garden magazine.

SheMOuNTAiN has Hornbuckle shared some of the This isofyour AD PrOOF from the OvEr THE JOurNAl for the in telling a story throughNov. pictures.” exhibited in Birmingham, tips shetopresented at the workshop 14, 2013 otmj issue.

Please faxTuscaloosa approval or changes 824-1246.

Rutherford said over the years, and Selma. plus more ideas for stress-free holiday she’s developed a time-saving strategy For more information, visit www.

Please make sure all information celebrations. is correct, for quickly putting up and taking down catherinepittmansmith.com. u Keep your get-togethers fun; the and storing her seasonal decorations.

--Keysha Drexel number! point is to enjoy yourself with family including address and phone

smith

Thanksgiving Tips

and friends. Tailor your celebration, whether it’s formal or informal, to your Please initial and fax back within 24 hours. so they’ll be comfortable and at not all rehabs if we have not heard from you by 5 pm of the Friday beforecrowd the press date, ease. your ad will run as is. We print the paper Monday. are alike.

A stressed-out host is no fun. Ask Thank you for your prompt attention. for help, whether it’s bringing a side item or dessert someone is known for or even getting help cleaning your house before the holidays u Know your limitations and work within them. If you’re short on time, on a budget or have limited oven space, plan accordingly.

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mixture, tossing gently to combine.

Green Beans with Red Bell Pepper and Mushrooms

Makes approximately 10 to 12 servings 24 oz. trimmed fresh green beans 4 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil, divided 1 red bell pepper 1 ½ cups sliced button mushrooms 1 teaspoon salt ½ teaspoon black pepper 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice Bring a large pot of water to a boil over high heat.

Working in batches, cook green beans in boiling water for 1 minute.

Remove beans with slotted spoon or tongs and place in an ice bath. Drain beans. (The recipe may be made to this point a day in advance and kept in the refrigerator in an airtight container) Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil over medium-high heat in a large nonstick skillet. Add half of beans to skillet.

Cook for 3-4 minutes or until beans begin to brown slightly, stirring often.

Place beans in a large heatproof bowl.

Repeat with 1 tablespoon olive oil and remaining beans.

Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in skillet over medium-high heat. Cook bell pepper in skillet for 3-4 minutes or until it begins to soften. Add bell pepper to beans.

Reduce heat to medium. Add remaining tablespoon olive oil to skillet. Cook mushrooms in skillet for 3-4 minutes or until softened. Add mushrooms to bean mixture.

Sprinkle mushrooms with salt, pepper and lemon juice, tossing gently to combine. freeze it for the holidays. u Expand your idea of what a holiday party should be. Try a cookie decorating party or holiday brunch. u Plan menu items that use different forms of cooking. If the turkey is in the oven all day, sauté your green beans and use your slow cooker. A slow cooker is for much more than Rotel dip; it’s a great way to cook without a lot of extra fat and also keeps your oven and stovetop open. u Work family heirlooms into the decorations for a special touch. “I fill an antique punch bowl that has been in my family for generations or my great-grandmother’s soup tureen with flowers for almost every get together,” Hornbuckle said. This is a great way to use slightly more delicate china that might not be used often. Just make sure to put a watertight container inside in case there are any cracks and so the arrangement doesn’t damage your family heirloom.

Use what you have to keep costs down. Cut some greenery from your yard, use an uncut pumpkin you decorated with for Halloween to make a vase, spray-paint some pinecones gold to add to your arrangement. Work with what your yard offers Citrus fruits and greenery are classic for Christmas and a less expensive way to fill out a table or bowl.

Think about who’s coming. If you’ll have lots of small children at your party, make sure your arrangement is out of reach or does not contain any poisonous plants. “Little kids will eat anything,” Hornbuckle said. ❖

OVER THE MOUNTAIN Journal

life

Thursday, November 14, 2013 • 19

magically designed for the one thing kids like to play with most. other kids.

Yes, of course you’ll find an awe-inspiring community brilliantly planned with lakes, a community pool, parks and walking trails, tennis courts, ball fields and playgrounds. Everything big kids and little kids could want. But when over 1,200 families chose Liberty Park as their new home, suddenly magic happened. And new kids found new friends, and new friends became best friends. And who is more fun to play with than your very best friends? Come discover the charms of Liberty Park today. After all, a little enchantment makes every day better.

New homes, new models and beautiful new neighborhoods now open.

Welcome Center open daily. Prices from the high $300s to over $2 million.

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All information contained herein deemed accurate but not warranted. Neither Liberty Park Properties nor its builders and agents are responsible for errors or omissions. Plan information subject to change without notice.

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205 945 6401 www.libertypark.com

A Stress-free Feast From page 1

test kitchen development at Hoffman Media and now comes up with recipes for eMeals, a comprehensive meal-planning resource.

Hornbuckle and her husband, Bill, met in college. They live in Vestavia Hills with their two small children.

“Bill had job offers here, so that’s what brought us to Birmingham,” she said. “I first came here to do an internship for Cooking Light magazine, and I stayed for Bill.”

While Hornbuckle knew she wanted to work in the food industry, she wasn’t interested in having a restaurant, she said.

“I managed a Taziki’s for a while, which was great management experience,” she said. “But it’s hard to have a restaurant job, because you have a lot of work at night and on weekends.

I wanted something that would give me more time with my family and friends.”

That’s when Hornbuckle started her own catering company, Delicious, in Cahaba Heights.

“I loved it, but I was working 70 or 80 hours a week. I didn’t want to turn anyone down,” she said.

One of Hornbuckle’s most popular creations at Delicious led to her next venture.

“I had sold so many pound cakes, and I began to sell them to Western, Piggly Wiggly, Murphree’s Market and some specialty shops,” she said. “After about a year of that, I was at the point where I was going to have to become

Thursday, November 14, 2013 • 21

life

OVER THE MOUNTAIN Journal

Virginia Hornbuckle’s simple yet festive arrangement can star as the centerpiece for Thanksgiving dinner or for any autumn occasion. She combined orange carnations, yellow ranunculus and eucalyptus leaves in an antique bowl. Journal photo by Lee Walls Jr.

a commercial bakery, and that had a whole new set of guidelines and would mean a big financial investment.

“Also, I was about burned out on pound cakes.”

Hornbuckle looked for other ways to use her culinary skills. She worked at Hoffman Media for about five years, she said, in recipe development and food styling.

“That was a fun job for me,” she said. “There was a new focus every day, and there were always new things to learn, which is one of my favorite things about cooking.”

After the couple’s second child was born, Hornbuckle began doing freelance work and now is able to work

from home for eMeals. She writes meal plans, including a slow cooker plan, for the website.

“I have a small kitchen, so slow cookers can be very useful,” she said.

When you’re feeding a crowd, it’s wise to be realistic about how much you can cook in your oven and on the stove and how much space you have in your refrigerator, she said.

Hornbuckle said her family typically celebrates Thanksgiving at her mother-in-law’s house.

“My husband is the youngest of six children, so we usually have about 30 people plus a few extra guests,” she said. “My mother-in-law is a great cook, and she always makes the dressing and her sweet potato casserole.

Everyone usually brings a side item or signature dish.” ❖

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22 • Thursday, November 14, 2013

life

No one should go HUNGRY on Thanksgiving Just $1.95 provides a meal. $97.50 feeds 50 $195 feeds 100 $585 feeds 300 Give the gift of a meal this Thanksgiving (205) 323-5878 • P.O. Box 10472 Birmingham, AL • 35202

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OVER THE MOUNTAIN Journal

Fun with Friends

Buddy Walk Supports Down Syndrome Programs

Down Syndrome Alabama held its 14th annual Buddy Walk on Oct. 20 at the Hoover Met. The event featured an afternoon of music from guest artist Dylan Scott, fun activities and a celebration walk that demonstrated Central Alabama’s

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Costs are average and include preparing meals. If gifts exceed expenses, extra funds will be used throughout the year.

Real fresh water pearls for real fans...

Grace Davis, center, and her friends from Vestavia Hills were the top fundraising team at the 2013 Buddy Walk in Hoover. Photos special to the Journal

Five-yearold twins Carson and Spencer Bradley and 13-monthold twins Macon and Sullivan Bradley participated in the 2013 Buddy Walk in Hoover.

Jonathan Hendrix, left, and guest artist Dylan Scott onstage at the concert preceding the Buddy Walk.

3301 Lorna Road, Ste. 1 • Hoover, Alabama • 205.978.5880

978-4546 Over The Mountain Journal, PHONE: 205-823-9646 FAX: 205-824-1246 Sept. 2009 This is your AD PROOF from the OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL for the Oct. 7, 2010 issue. Please fax approval or changes to 824-1246.

Please make sure all information is correct, including address and phone number!

Please initial and fax back within 24 hours.

If we have not heard from you by 5 pm of the Friday before the press date, your ad will run as is. We print the paper Monday.

Thank you for your prompt attention.

the nest

for all you birds

Please come in and shop our large selection of dining room tables!

Or custom order the table that best serves your space and style! Also, we have an eclectic mix of home furnishings and great accessories.

2720 19th place south • homewood, al. 35209 tue-fri 10:30-5 • sat 10:30-4 peckandhills@gmail.com phone 870-1264

commitment to improving the lives of individuals of all ages with Down syndrome.

About 1,500 people in 45 teams participated in this year’s event.

Proceeds support Down Syndrome Alabama programs that help serve more than 500 families and self-advocates in Central Alabama by offering support groups, educational workshops, an annual conference, medical and mental health resources, outreach efforts and other programs.

“The Buddy Walk is a success because of the commitment of our board of directors and the help of many volunteers, in both the planning stages as well as the day of the event,” said Susan Tolle, Down Syndrome Alabama executive director. “We are so grateful. However, it is our members with Down syndrome who inspire us and drive us every day to a commitment of providing a community where they will find an enviable quality of life from birth to old age.”

For more information on Down Syndrome at Alabama, contact Tolle atfrom is “ just arrived 988-0810 or at downsyndromealaEngland bama@gmail.com. ❖ and substitute

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Something to Brag About This year’s Boiling N’ Bragging event raised $62,000 for Critical Care Transport at Children’s of Alabama. The event was sponsored

by Rotary District 6860 at Otey’s Tavern in Mountain Brook. From left: Tom Greene, Jason Peterson, Cayce Williams, Michael Rogers, Ted Burns, Will Haver and Mark Rogers. ❖

OVER THE MOUNTAIN Journal

life

Thursday, November 14, 2013 • 23

24 • Thursday, November 14, 2013

social

OVER THE MOUNTAIN Journal

Holiday Tradition

Debutantes Will be Presented at Heritage Ball The Birmingham Debutante Club has announced members of the 2013 Debutante Club.

The 29 young women will be

presented at the annual Heritage Ball on Nov. 29 at the Country Club of Birmingham.

The ball is a longtime holiday

tradition in Birmingham. Debutantes have been feted during the weekend of Thanksgiving since the Debutante Club was founded in 1929. â?–

Lindsey Harris Badham, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Walker Percy Badham III.

Eleanor Heath Beauchamp, daughter of Dr. and Mrs. Robert Davidson Slaughter and Mr. Robert Mason Beauchamp.

Hannah Evelyn Jane Bromberg, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Eugene Brooks Bromberg.

Lenora Ireland Brown, daughter of Dr. and Mrs. Tom Tartt Brown Jr.

Mary Paty Bryant, daughter of Dr. Paty Bargeron Bryant and Dr. and Mrs. James Edward Bryant.

Joy Elizabeth Barrilleaux Cornay, daughter of Dr. and Mrs. W. J. Cornay III.

Jane Comer Crockard, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Francis Hearne Crockard III.

Frances Newman Deaton, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Ogden Shropshire Deaton.

Delia Thornton Folk, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Glover Mitchell Bruhn and Mr. and Mrs. Christopher Rush Folk.

Taylor Gore Hiden, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. William Mudd Hiden.

Margaret Richardson King, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Mark Steven King.

Margaret Day Lacey, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. John Anthony Lacey and Mrs. Tina Day Lacey.

Sarah Grace McCalley, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Robert Lanford McCalley Jr.

Palmer Corrine Miller, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Charles Mixson Miller Jr.

Virginia Shook Nelson, daughter of Mrs. Jere Brown Nelson and Mr. Gilmer Payton Nelson.

Margaret Alexandra Pitts, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. William Henry Pitts II.

Lillian Sloss Ratliff, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. William Thomas Ratliff III.

Elizabeth Grace Register, daughter of Mrs. Susan Hay Register and Mr. Jonathan Hugh Register.

Melissa Jane Teel Robinson, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Oliver Gordon Robinson III.

Callan Elizabeth Sherrod, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Peyton Candler Sherrod.

Elizabeth Foreman Sparrow, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. James Callen Sparrow.

Anne Dewitt Thompson, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Michael DeWitt Thompson.

Eugenia Maxwell Thompson, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Michael DeWitt Thompson.

Elizabeth Holland Tracy, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Jon Cooner and Mr. and Mrs. Timothy John Tracy.

Elizabeth Ann Williams, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Turner Butler Williams.

Marianne Coston Williams, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. John White Williams.

Virginia Clayton Clark, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Charles Lange Clark.

Christian Austin Linnea Israel, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. William Byron Israel.

Letty Woods Wyatt, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. William Hunt Wyatt.

Thursday, November 14, 2013 • 25

social

OVER THE MOUNTAIN Journal

Estate Jewelry Estate Silver Fine Photographs

Mary Adams Building • 1829 29th Avenue South, Homewood

(205) 870-3588

Antique Show Affair

Mon-Fri 10-5

Gala in The Gardens Kicks Off Annual Event

From left: Carolyn Englefield, Jim and Tricia Holbrook, Clinton Smith and Frannie Jones.

Photos special to the Journal

B

Richard Keith Langham and Barbara Burton.

Emily and Bill Bowron.

Left: Jacob Dorsett, Mark Kennamer and Jimmy Laughlin.

870-3589 Over The Mountain Journal, PHONE: 205-823-9646 FAX: 205-824-1246 Sept.

irmingham Botanical Date: Gardens kicked off its Antiques in The Gardens This is your AD PROOF from the OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL event Oct. 4 with Sterne Agee’s Oct. 6, 2011 issue. Please fax approval or changes to 824-1246 Gala in The Gardens.

More than 650 guests attended the exclusive, black-tie event that Please make sure all information is correc invited them to privately shop including address and phone number!

HANNA the sale, enjoy cocktails and hors ANTiquEs MAll d’oeuvres and dance to the sounds of the Tip Top Band. andCuriosities fax backand within Rooms and Please Rooms ofinitial Antiques, Fun! 24 hours.

For the eighth year, the gala If we haveDealer not heard from you by 5 pm of the Friday before the press date, Spaces Available your ad will run as is. We• 10:00-5:00 print the paper Monday. was part of the Antiques in The 2424 7th Ave. So. • 323-6036 • Mon-Sat Gardens event, presented by Thank you for your prompt attention.

IberiaBank. Antiques in The Gardens included 14 themed areas curated by local “tastemakers” and antiques more photos at dealers from across the Southeast.

The weekend’s festivities also included a silent auction at The Gallery and a special menu by Kathy G at The Gardens Cafe.

Proceeds from Antiques in The Gardens events benefit The Gardens’ educational mission, including its flagship program, Discovery Field Trips, which has offered free, curriculum-based sciTo: 323-6014 ence education to nearly 100,000 From: Over The Mountain Journal, PHONE: 205-823-9646 FAX: 205-824-1246 Birmingham city schools students Date: Nov 2013 over the last decade.

Among those attending the gala This is your AD PrOOF from the OvEr THE MOuNTAiN JOurNAl for were Carolyn Englefield, Jim and Nov. 14, 2013 issue. Please fax approval or changes to 824-1246.

Tricia Holbrook, Clinton Smith and Frannie Jones.

Others spotted at the event Please make sure all information is correct, were Emily and Bill Bowron, including address and phone number!

Richard Keith Langham, Barbara Burton and Suzette Doucet.

Please initial and fax back within 24 hours.

Also enjoying the 2013 gala if we have not heard from you by 5 pm of the Friday before the press date, your ad will run as is. We print the paper Monday. were Murray and Virginia Smith, Jacob Dorsett, Mark Kennamer, Thank you for your prompt attention.

Jimmy Laughlin and Birmingham Mayor William Bell. ❖

OTMJ.COM

above: Murray and Nancy Smith and Taylor and Lydia Pursell.

To: From:

26 • Thursday, November 14, 2013

social

OVER THE MOUNTAIN Journal

Interiors by

Kathy Harris The Alabama Ballet Company in the “Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde” costumes.

Photos special to the Journal

Ballet Benefit

Fall Extravaganza Features Shopping, Styles

The Ballet Women’s Committee hosted its annual Fall To: SMCS Extravaganza on Oct. 24.

From: Over The Mountain Journal, PHONE: 205-823-9646 The event was held at the Vestavia Country Club to benefit FAX: 205-824-1246 the Alabama Ballet.

Date: Nov, 203 Doors opened at 10 a.m.

“The Shoppe,” This is your AD PrOOF from the OvEr THE MOuNTAiNforJOurNAl for where the those attending could shop for holiNov. 14, 2013 issue. Please fax approval or changes to 824-1246. day gifts. The holiday shop was organized by Sarah Bryan and Brandi Vickers.

The event also included a Please join us for our Holiday Open House silent auction with more than Saturday, November 23rd 10-5 100 items. The silent aucPlease initial tion was organized by Julie Sunday, November 24thand 1-4fax back within 24 hours. if we have not heard from you by 5 pm of the Friday before the press with date, merchandising by Meyers adServed will run as is. We print the paper Monday.

Refreshmentsyour Will be Sherry Bohorfoush, Michelle Schmidtke and Timberly interiorkh@att.net 3949 Cypress Drive, Cahaba 970-4161 Thank you Heights for your prompt attention.

Harris.

A luncheon featured a runway debut of the Alabama Ballet’s costumes for its production of “Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde.” The Designs for every room. costume debut was followed by a fashion show featuring Stella more photos at Blue, Betsy Prince and Mountain Journal, phone 205-823-9646, fax 205-824-1246 Carriage House Weddings designs.

Patti Pierce was the raffle s your aD prOOF from the Over The MOunTain JOurnal for the prize winner and won estate diavember 1, 2012 issue. please fax approval or changes to 824-1246. mond earrings from Levy’s Fine Jewelry. please make sure all information is correct, Other committee members for the Fall Extravaganza included including address and phone number!

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Thursday, November 14, 2013 • 27

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Fun on the Links

Ladies Golf Association Champion Crowned

From left: Patti Salmon, Joy Clark, Susan Murphy, Brenda Dailey and Carolyn Hartman. Photo special to the Journal

The Ladies Golf Association of Vestavia Country Club recently crowned its 2013 Club Champion.

The group held its annual Club Championship Tournament Oct. 1-2. Joy Clark was the winner.

Susan Murphy won the Handicap Championship and the closest to the pin contest on the seventh hole.

Gloria Nelson won the points competition and the closest to the pin contest on the 14th hole.

Betty Tucker had the straightest drive at the tournament on the sixth hole.

Others joining in the golfing fun were Brenda Dailey, Betty Margaret Elliot, Jean Guthrie, Carolyn Hartman, Jean McCarley, Betty McDaniel, Lovie Montgomery, Patsy Norton, Reba Ribe, Patti Salmon, Cille Spader, Sue Strozier and Jane Young.

The awards were presented by Allen Austin, the club’s director of golf, at a luncheon following the second day of play.

Chairmen for the events were Joy Clark and Brenda Dailey. ❖

Silhouettes Celebrate Fall with Luncheon

Jonathan W. Gathings & Associates, LLC Attorneys at Law

Members of the Silhouettes Dance Club gathered recently to celebrate autumn.

The club held its annual fall luncheon at Vestavia Country Club on Oct. 18.

Members were welcomed to the event by the club’s president, Fay Hall. Martha Fuller arranged the luncheon for the group.

Members discussed plans for the club year, including two dances.

Rose Ann Kendrick, Kathleen Petznick, Anne Michaels and Kay Merrill are among the club’s event chairmen this year. ❖

Experience • Passion • Results

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Jonathan and Kim Over The Mountain Journal, PHONE: 205-823-9646 FAX: 205-824-1246 Oct. 2013 This is your AD PrOOF from the OvEr THE MOuNTAiN JOurNAl for the October 17, 2013 issue. Please email or fax approval or changes to 824-1246.

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OVER THE MOUNTAIN Journal

Football-themed Fun Gridiron Gala Raises Money for Autism Society

home the cash prize, but there’s Mary Catherine Collins earned always next year. a standing ovation when she Special guests Dawn performed on the Soundstage at South, Amy Mitchell and Todd Regions Field on Oct. 19 during Tomerlin received the ASA the Autism Society of Alabama’s President’s Award at the event. annual Gridiron Gala.

“This is our way of recogThe 13-year-old’s vocal pernizing and thanking these indiformance of “Over the Rainbow” viduals for their commitment to brought all 250 guests to their feet. our organization and for making Collins illustrated the importance a difference in the lives of those and purpose of the evening’s festiviaffected by autism spectrum ties, event organizers said. disorder,” said Peggy Stevens, Collins has been the recipient of board president of the organizaa Camp FROG scholarship for the tion. past five years, and it was there that Other ASA board members her vocal talent was shared with the are Bill Pearson, past president, Society for the first time.

Birmingham; Jonathan Nelson, A weekend at Camp FROG vice president, Birmingham; sponsored by the Autism Society Rod Harbin, treasurer, of Alabama is just one of the many Birmingham; Karen Vinson, programs that the Gridiron Gala for secretary, Montgomery; Nancy Autism Awareness supports.

Barnes, Huntsville; Angie “Over $50,000 was raised at this year’s event to benefit the mission Mary Catherine Collins, above sang “Over the Barber, Tuscaloosa; Donna Broome, Mobile; Ben Carlisle, and projects of ASA. We are hum- Rainbow” at the event. The 13-year-old’s vocal performance of “Over the Rainbow” brought all Birmingham; Christy Boyles, bled by the outpouring of support 250 guests to their feet. Below, Jerry, the Autism Cullman; Caroline Gomez, received from both individuals and Society of Alabama mascot, and Aubie, the Auburn; Fran Heisner, Dothan; businesses in our community who Auburn University mascot. Photos special to the Journal Darryl Littleton, Montgomery; were the essential piece in making Mathew Maini, Gadsden; it a successful event,” said Melanie Matt Moore, Birmingham; Jones, Autism Society of Alabama Jenny Morris, Huntsville; executive director.

Andrea Plante, Gulf Shores; Guests were greeted by tunes Lisa Riley, Tuscaloosa; Hanes from the Carver High School Drum Swingle, Mobile; and Jodie Corps and cheers from the Oak Smith, Birmingham.

Mountain High School cheerleaders.

The Gridiron Gala fundraisUniversity of Alabama mascot ing committee included Jenny Big Al and Auburn University’s Morris, chairman, and Jonathan Aubie made appearances along Nelson, Matt Moore, Lance with the Autism Society mascot, Taylor and Rod Harbin.

Jerry the Frog.

Sponsors for the event A silent auction featured items included BlueCross BlueShield, such as Oriental rugs and collectAT&T-Alabama, Honda Manufacturing, WIAT CBS 42, ibles from Pickwick Antiques, a weekend beach stay proBill and Paulette Pearson, Dale Seasoning, Jeff and vided by SunDestin and many golf trips.

Bama Hager, Regions Bank, Sen. Cam Ward and Julie Participants refueled with beverages provided by Good Ward, Hon. and Mrs. Spencer Bachus, Bob and Betsy People Brewery and United Johnson Brothers, dined on entree choices provided by Parkview Catering and enjoyed Brooks, Randy and Tracy Cron, Russ and Rachel Barton, Knights of Columbus, Southern Company, music by Hit Me with Music.

Joe Piper Inc., McGriff Seibels and Williams, PhRMA, Jack Granger, auctioneer, featured items up for bid, Milestones Behavioral Consulting, Shelby Dermatology, including an Alabama Crimson Tide Game Package, The E Group, Water Science Technology, Drummond the Atlanta Package, the Camo and Ammo Package, a Company, Summit Media, Zeekee Interactive, Good Deep Sea Fishing Excursion, Costa Rica and the Orlando People Brewing Company, Karen and Larry Vinson, Package.

Jenny and Paul Morris, Jenny Folsom, Servis First and After the live auction, three contestants were selected WJOX-FM. ❖ to compete in the $10,000 football toss. No one took

GOP Gathering

Shelby County Republican Women Attend Annual Meeting Several members of the Shelby County Republican Women recently traveled to Orange Beach for the annual meeting of the Alabama Federation of Republican Women.

The event was held at Perdido Point Oct. 26-27.

New officers were installed at the meeting.

Representing the Shelby County Republican Women at the event were Dee Shirley, presidentelect; Joan Reynolds, secretary-elect; Mallory Jackson; Dawn Ray, secretary, and Ann Eubank. ❖

Front, from left: Dawn Ray and Ann Eubank. Back: Dee Shirley, Joan Reynolds and Mallory Jackson. Photo special to the Journal

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OVER THE MOUNTAIN Journal

Digging into Gardening NSAL Hosts National President

The Birmingham chapter of the National Society of Arts and Letters recently hosted a very special guest.

NSAL National President Catriona Erler of Charlottesville, Va., presented a program on regional garden design in America at the chapter’s Oct. 18 luncheon meeting at Birmingham Country Club.

Erler also spoke on “Thinking outside the Boxwoods” at an event at the Birmingham Botanical Gardens.

Her presentation was illustrated with photos showing how garden designs vary from the East Coast to the West Coast.

After the program, Margie Denton gave the invocation preceding lunch. Jane Hinds decorated the luncheon tables at the club with roses from her garden.

Birmingham Chapter President Mildred Allen-Taub presided at the business meeting.

Erler discussed the national chapter’s perspective on the organization’s mission to encourage talented young people to develop their creative art through competitions and other awards.

In other business, Catherine Rogers and Jeannine McElroy were elected to the chapter’s nominating committee, which is chaired by Denton.

Jim Erler of Charlottesville, Robert Denton and Marie Lewis were among the guests at the luncheon meeting.

Chapter members attending the October event included Ben Middaugh, Carolyn Satterfield, Catherine Rogers, Cindy Free, Fay Hart, Jane Hinds, Janis Zeanah, Jeannine McElroy, Margie Denton,

From left: Catriona Erler, Jim Erler and Carolyn Satterfield. Photo special to the Journal

Melva Jones, Mildred AllenTaub, Nancy Jones, Nancy Morrow, Rebecca Rast, Edith and Robert Bauman, Ruth Jensen, Sara Vaughn, Sue Watkins, Tallulah Hargrove, Zelda Covey, Pat Southern, Libby Odom, Mel Robinson, Lynn Russell-Davis and Miriam McClung.

On the evening after the luncheon meeting, a welcoming party for Catriona and Jim Erler was held at the Mountain Brook home of Carolyn and Bill Satterfield. The Erlers and the Satterfields have been friends since both couples lived in Washington, D.C. Among those enjoying the party were Mildred AllenTaub, Ruth and Virgil Jensen, Margie and Robert Denton, National NSAL Board Member Nancy Morrow and Bart Morrow, Edith and Robert Bauman, Jane Hinds, Catherine and Brown Rogers, Rebecca Rast, Nancy Jones Cindy Free and Nancy Jones. and Janis Zeanah. ❖

From left: Mountain Brook Mayor Terry Oden, Doris White, Phillip Adler, Abe Zanayed and Forsyth Donald.

Photo special to the Journal

Card Camp

Adler Gives Bridge Seminar A noted bridge columnist recently held a seminar at Mountain Brook Club after he was invited to town by Over the Mountain residents Doris White and Forsyth Donald.

Phillip Adler hosted the Bridge Camp with 90 people attending. Some came from as far away as North Carolina and Boston to attend.

Adler is a columnist for the New York Times and for Uclick Universal, which is sent out worldwide. He has coached several international and world championship

bridge teams.

He was a national champion in England and has represented the U.S. at three world championships. He was the non-playing captain of the U.S. bronze medal-winning team in the McConnell Cup World women’s team and the silver medal-winning team in the 2012 D’orsi World Senior Team Championships.

Mountain Brook Mayor Terry Oden presented Adler with a proclamation and a key to the city on the first day of the seminar.

Abe Zanayed, manager of Abe’s Bridge Club on Montevallo Road, invited Adler to become an honorary member of the club.

While in Birmingham, Adler stayed at the home of Margie and Sid Davis. ❖

Thursday, November 14, 2013 • 29

30 • Thursday, November 14, 2013

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OVER THE MOUNTAIN Journal

Neighborly Events

Monte D’oro Association Celebrates 50 Years The Monte D’oro Homeowners’ Association celebrated the neighborhood’s 50th anniversary recently.

To mark the occasion, the group hosted a fall festival on Oct. 4.

The event included hotdogs, chips, desserts and trick-or-treat goodies for the neighborhood children, along with face painting and other fun activities.

Neighbors from about 75 homes in Monte D’oro came out for the festival.

Anna Lu Hemphill, the association’s president, has been working with members Susanne Wright and Eileen Lewis to coordinate other events to celebrate the 50th anniversary.

In August, the homeowners hosted an ice cream social. Plans are being made now for the group’s annual Christmas party. The Monte D’oro Homeowners’ Association also hosts an Easter egg hunt each spring. ❖

From left: Susanne Wright, Anna Lu Hemphill and Eileen Lewis.

Photo special to the Journal

Honoring Veterans, Past and Present Pelham UDC Chapter Kicks Off Year with Luncheon

johnwilliamjeweler.com

To: From: Date:

The Pelham 67 Chapter of the United Daughters of the Confederacy began its year with a luncheon at Mountain Brook Club.

Chapter members discussed plans for the year, including adopting Oakhill Cemetery, the burial site of many Confederate soldiers and generals, for Confederate

Billy Over The Mountain Journal, PHONE: 205-823-9646 FAX: 205-824-1246 Nov 2013 This is your ad proof from the over the mountain Journal for the nov. 14, 2013 issue. Please fax approval or changes to 824-1246.

From left: Mary Havill, Don Sorrell and Virginia Tucker. please make sure all information is correct, including address and phone number!

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a seafood feast please initial and fax back within 24 hours. for the holidays!

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Memorial Day. They also made plans to honor present-day veterans by putting together care packages of toiletry items for Veterans Day and Thanksgiving.

Don Sorrell, president of the local Civil War Roundtable, spoke to those attending the kickoff luncheon about the 11th Alabama Infantry and the hardships those troops endured.

Also at the meeting, members decided to send a memorial to the Civil War Trust Battlefield Preservation Committee for the Henry Simpson Legacy fund to honor Henry Simpson, a friend of the chapter and a frequent speaker.

Those attending the meeting included Judy Anderson, Mena Brock, Eleanor Cheatham, Grace Cooper, Linda Cooper and Nancy Denson.

Others at the luncheon were Anita Dillon, Dottie Drake, Eleanor Hassinger, Mary Havill, Harriet Heacock, Bly Keith, Ann King and Melissa McGehee.

Also at the meeting were Jane Morris, Bee Morris, Virginia Mylius, Dorothy Naughton, Joan Parker, Murray Phillips, Jane Randolph with husband Ted, Betty Stockham, Jean Tomlinson, Virginia Tucker, Edie Vann, Cordette Wall, Delores Wilkinson and Jennifer Zimmerman. ❖

Comeaux-Saia

Mr. Walter Louis Comeaux II and Ms. Kathleen Noel Smith, both of Baton Rouge, La., announce the engagement of their daughter, Allyson Kathleen Comeaux, to Samuel Graves Saia, son of Mr. and Mrs. Joseph Anthony Saiia of Birmingham.

The bride-elect is the granddaughter of Mrs. Clifford C. Comeaux

Broughton-Reeves

Mr. and Mrs. Thomas Ashford Broughton III and Mrs. Nan Chandler Broughton of Birmingham announce the engagement of their daughter, Virginia Anthony Broughton, to John Grady Reeves, son of Mr. and Mrs. Grady Andrew Reeves of Troy.

The bride-elect is the granddaughter of Mrs. Thomas Ashford

Watson-Roy

Mr. and Mrs. James Andrew Watson of Birmingham announce the engagement of their daughter, Katherine Blake Watson, to Michael Patrick Roy, son of Ms. Marianne Griffin of Birmingham and Mr. and

Thursday, November 14, 2013 • 31

Weddings & Engagements

OVER THE MOUNTAIN Journal

Sr. of Baton Rouge and the late Dr. Comeaux and Mrs. W.D. Smith of Shreveport, La., and the late Mr. Smith.

Miss Comeaux is a graduate of Louisiana State University with a bachelor’s degree in communication sciences and disorders and the University of Memphis with a master’s degree in speech-language pathology. She is employed with Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta as a speech-language pathologist.

The prospective groom is the grandson of the late Mr. Samuel Anthony Saiia and the late Ms. Lillian Virginia Saiia of Birmingham as well as the late Mr. and Mrs. Oliver Russell Graves of Birmingham.

Mr. Saia is a graduate of Auburn University with a bachelor’s degree in civil engineering and Emory University’s Goizueta School of Business with a master’s degree in business administration. He is employed in real estate development at Yellowhammer Investments.

The wedding will be Jan. 24.

Broughton Jr. and the late Mr. Thomas Ashford Broughton Jr. of Dallas, Mrs. Josephine Bush Chandler of Shreveport, La., and Dr. and Mrs. John David Chandler Sr. of Gilbertsville, Ky. Miss Broughton is a graduate of Mountain Brook High School and the University of Alabama. She was a member of Pi Beta Phi and was presented at the Beaux Arts Krewe Ball.

Miss Broughton is a third year law student at the University of Alabama School of Law. The prospective groom is the grandson of Mr. and Mrs. Grady Homer Reeves of Troy, Mr. and Mrs. Walter Herbert Hundley of Lufkin, Texas, and Mr. and Mrs. Herschel Hudson Phillips of Pensacola, Fla. Mr. Reeves is a graduate of Charles Henderson High School and Troy University, where he was a member of Sigma Alpha Epsilon. He is a third year law student at Thomas Goode Jones School of law.

The wedding will be Dec. 28.

Mrs. Kevin Roy of Vancouver, B.C. The bride-elect is the granddaughter of Mr. and Mrs. Thomas Joseph Thornton of Birmingham and Mrs. Frances Hart Watson and the late Mr. Watson of Brewton.

Miss Watson is a graduate of Mountain Brook High School and the University of Georgia, where she was a member of Kappa Kappa Gamma sorority. She is employed in Birmingham at United Way of Central Alabama.

The prospective groom is the grandson of the late Mr. and Mrs. Richard Griffin of Tulsa, Okla., and the late Mr. and Mrs. Alexander Cecil Roy of Winthrop, Mass.

Mr. Roy is a graduate of Mountain Brook High School and the University of Alabama, where he was a member of Phi Gamma Delta. He is employed in Birmingham at Arthur J. Gallagher Risk Management Services.

The wedding will be Jan. 25.

Thomas-Brown

Lane Ellen Thomas and Graham Ronald Brown were married on Aug. 24 at Canterbury United Methodist Church. The Rev. DeWitt Thomason Bell Jr. and the Rev. Samuel Lee Williamson officiated the ceremony.

The bride is the daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Robert Michael Thomas of

Schroepfer-Frederick

Leah Justine Schroepfer and Matthew Riley Frederick were married July 13 in Delaware, Ohio.

Pastor Mark Artrip and Pastor Todd Tracy officiated the ceremony.

Mountain Brook. She is the granddaughter of Mrs. Frances Manly Ferrell of Birmingham and the late Mr. Harold Cleveland Manly Jr. and Mr. and Mrs. L.S. Thomas Jr., all of Birmingham.

The groom is the son of Mr. and Mrs. John Anthony Brown of Goose Creek, S.C. He is the grandson of Mr. Joseph Armisted Neff of Charleston, S.C., and the late Mrs. Geraldine Ott Neff and the late Mr. and Mrs. Ronald Herbert Brown of Cheshire, England.

The bride was given in marriage by her father. Allison Brooke Westlake served as her maid of honor.

Bridesmaids were Evan Ashley Alderson, Melissa Manly Bonds, Stephanie Jean Cannon, Leslie Myer Crawford, Kori Louise Harrow, Rebecca Marguerite McCaleb, Laura Margaret Steul and Ashley Austin Vibert. Flower girls were Hallie Kay Head and Sara Frances Head.

The groom’s brother, Jonathan Neff Brown, served as his best The bride is the daughter of Mr. and Mrs. John Schroepfer of Powell, Ohio. The groom is the son of Mr. and Mrs. Mike Frederick of Homewood.

Given in marriage by her father, the bride was attended by her sisters, Lauren Evans as matron of honor and Elise Schroepfer as maid of honor. Bridesmaids were Marti Frederick, sister of the groom; Mary London Carswell; Madie Shelton; Megan Kauffman; Lindsey Petrel and Morgan Meyers.

The groom’s father served as his son’s best man. Groomsmen were Chase Inman, Richie Fordham, David Hayes, Ronald Nored, Justin Carter, Matt Watford and Josh Reebals.

Lincoln Evans, nephew of the bride, was the ring bearer.

After a honeymoon trip to Kauai, Hawaii, the couple lives in Opelika.

To have our wedding & engagement forms sent to you, call 823-9646.

man. Groomsmen were Jay Jeffrey Brown, Steven Michael Kimmel, Steven Michael Lloyd, Shawn Patrick McGregor, Christopher Marcus Mitchell, Scott Aaron Stanley and Kirk Michael Thomas, brother of the bride.

Music was provided by Dr. Lester Seigel, Kristi Tingle-Higginbotham and David Higginbotham.

The bride wore an ivory French Alencon lace V-neck Augusta Jones gown with a ruched silk taffeta cummerbund at her waist. The plunging V-back was accented with satin covered buttons and a full chapel-length train. Her waltz-length veil of ivory illusion was edged with lace and was handmade by the bride’s great-grandmother, Frances Kirk, for the bride’s mother to wear in her 1982 wedding.

Her cousin, Melissa Manly Bonds, also wore it in her 2010 wedding.

After a honeymoon trip to Jamaica, the couple lives in Birmingham.

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32 • Thursday, November 14, 2013

By Donna Cornelius

Journal features writer

The holiday season is filled with traditions, and the Over the Mountain Journal has one of its own: checking in with neighborhood toy gurus to find out what’s new this year. Our friends at Homewood Toy and Hobby, Learning Express, Smith’s Variety and Snoozy’s Kids have shared suggestions for toys and fun stuff for all ages. We think it’s a win-win situation: You get lots of ideas for the little folks on your list—and we get to play with some cool toys.

Please bear in mind that toy selections and prices may vary from store to store. For more information, call Homewood Toy and Hobby at 879-3986, Learning Express at 970-9710, Smith’s Variety at 871-0841 and Snoozy’s Kids at 871-2662.

Looking for a playful gift that won’t stretch your budget? This year, it’s a snap.

One of the top items on many kids’ must-have lists stars the humble rubber band.

All four Over the Mountain toy stores carry kits, looms and supplies for making bracelets and other wearable crafts from brightly-colored rubber bands. The most popular supplier is Rainbow Loom, although some stores carry other lines.

“This is the biggest thing since Beanie Babies,” said Melissa McCollum of Learning Express. “It’s a huge thing for boys as well as girls.”

Learning Express has classes for making rubber band crafts, including a session for boys only, McCollum said.

This gift is no budget buster, since prices range from about $2.99 for bags of rubber bands up to about $35 for deluxe kits, which are available at some stores.

Another item at three of the stores also has a simple ingredient: sand. But in Living Sands sets, the sand is synthetic and nontoxic. You can mold it and squish it to your heart’s content since it doesn’t dry out. Sets, depending on size, range from $24-$80 and are recommended for ages 3 and older.

While sands and rubber bands are having their moment in the spotlight, there are plenty of new toys to choose from, said Steve Sudduth of Smith’s Variety.

“There are more exciting toys this year than in the last three to four years,” Sudduth said.

He found one of those items, the Maxx Traxxx starter race car set, at the American Specialty Toy Retailing Association’s toy fair.

“It was my favorite thing at ASTRA,” Sudduth said. “The cars are gravity-powered, and the track lights up when the cars go by. It has eight feet of track. It’s awesome.”

Prices start at $19.99, and sets come in several sizes at Snoozy’s and Smith’s Variety. At Learning Express, the set is $14.99. It’s recommended for ages 6 and older.

Julie Marix at Homewood Toy and Hobby also found a fascinating item at the

Toy Story

Toy Joy

Fun Things for the Kids on Your Christmas List

OVER THE MOUNTAIN Journal

Playthings is “a classic toy that’s still a best seller.”

Even those as young as 12 months old can enjoy this toy. A farmer riding a tractor tows five animal friends in a wagon; you press the farmer to make the tractor go or press each critter to hear them talk. It’s $24.99.

Need more ideas? Here are some of our toy gurus’ top choices: Cool Creations:

Journal photos by Maury Wald

Tricia McCain owner of Homewood Toy & Hobby says Simon is always a favorite at Christmas time.

Melissa McCollum of Learning Express with a very popular item this year, the Rainbow Loom.

Mary Anne Glazner owner of Smith’s Variety says Kickin’ Putt continues to be a popular toy for family fun.

George Jones with Snoozy’s Kid’s likes the new knit cap with built-in speakers.

ASTRA fair. The Laser Game Khet 2.0 “is a chess game with a new twist,” she said.

Egyptian-themed game pieces have mirrors that light up. Players aim low-powered lasers at an opponent’s piece, keeping in mind that the mirrors can deflect the beams.

“It’s a strategy game,” Marix said. “And it was a Mensa Select Award winner, so it’s going to make you think.”

The game is for ages 9 and older and costs $45.99.

George Jones at Snoozy’s Kids loves demonstrating—OK, playing with—the Hover Cycle. It’s a remote control motorcycle with a rider aboard.

“The wheels light up, and the motorcycle hovers and goes sideways,” Jones said.

“On hardwood floors, it really goes. We’ve been through one order of these already.”

For ages 6 and up, the Hover Cycle is $39.99.

Not all popular toys are geared to today’s techno-savvy children. At Smith’s, an entire wall is dedicated to retro favorites. The books, games and tin toys are presented in what looks like the original packaging.

The No. 1 seller in this section, Sudduth said, is the Knitting Doll, which comes with a little painted wooden figure, wool and a wooden knitting needle.

“Retro has become really popular over the

last four years. It’s become almost a hipster thing,” Sudduth said.

At Snoozy’s, there’s timeless appeal in the Kid Kraft Laundry Play Set. It’s a stacked-style pretend washer and dryer with a laundry basket underneath. The toy is prettily painted in pastel colors, which means it won’t make a garish addition to a child’s room.

The play set is for ages three and older, Jones said. It’s $139.99.

Homewood Toy and Hobby offers timeless playthings, too.

“We always have classics like pogo sticks and stilts, and we sell a ton of games,” Marix said.

Lionel trains are still chugging along strongly, she said.

“They’re great to put under the tree, and some have Christmas-related themes,” she said.

McCollum at Learning Express said the Fun Time Tractor by International

Water Dancing Speakers hook up to iPads, phones, computers or “anything that makes noise,” George Jones said. The speakers have multi-colored LED lights, and water shoots up (don’t worry, the water’s contained within the tops of the speakers) to the beat of the music. “You can have your own little Bellagio with these,” Jones said.

At Snoozy’s, Smith’s and Homewood Toy and Hobby. $49.99, for kids in kindergarten up to teens.

Popar books are used with iPads or Android tablets. You open the book, and the page comes up on the screen in 3D. The onscreen picture then moves and talks to tell you interesting stuff about the book’s subject—construction, planets, princesses or bugs. At Smith’s. $19.99-$35.99, for ages 3 and up.

Spy Gear Stealth Com and Spy Gear Long Range Walkie Talkies are high-tech ways for kids to conduct all those covert ops. Or just to tell your brother to bring you a PB&J. At Snoozy’s and Homewood Toy and Hobby. $49-$60, for ages 8 and older.

“Safari: A Photicular Book” is like a “movie in your hand,” Jones said. Flip through the New York Times bestseller’s pages to see a giraffe loping or a cheetah streaking along.

At Snoozy’s, Homewood Toy and Hobby and Smith’s. $24.99, for all ages.

The Active Life:

Even if you’re not a “Duck Dynasty” fan, your kids will likely love the Bow and Mallow based on the popular TV show. And parents will appreciate the safety aspect since the bow is designed to shoot marshmallows, not pointy arrows.

At Snoozy’s, Homewood Toy and Hobby and Smith’s. $27.99, for ages 6 and up.

Another non-lethal bow and arrow set was invented by brothers, who probably got tired of hearing their mom scream, “Not in the house!” Two Bros Bows come with a soft-tipped arrow. At Smith’s. The bow and arrow set is $16.99; extra arrows are $3.99. For ages 6 and up.

Need another bow and arrow idea? Zing’s Legends Longbow set has a Hunger Games vibe. The arrows, with thick foam tips, can be shot more than 125 feet. At Homewood Toy and Hobby and Snoozy’s, $31.99. At Learning Express, $29.99. For ages 8 and up.

The Nightzone Football is a foam ball with LED glowing light-up strips, making it light up for nighttime play. The set includes six glowing bracelets, three for each team.

At Learning Express, $24.99. At Homewood Toy and Hobby, $14.99, ball only. For ages 6 and up. Also at Snoozy’s.

Slackline sets can be strung between trees so kids can try their balancing skills.

Clamps hold the lines in place not far off the ground. Some sets come with springs and seats for extra fun. At Homewood Toy and

Hobby, Learning Express, Smith’s and Snoozy’s. $74.99-$159.99. Prices and age recommendations vary depending on the set.

The Begin Again Kickin’ Putt comes with two dimpled balls and a Frisbee-like disc. You toss the disc, which has an indention in the top, and then try to throw the ball into the indention. You can play in teams; low score wins. Steve Sudduth at Smith’s said it can be played “from the time you walk to when you can barely walk”—in other words, it’s for almost all ages. At Smith’s, Snoozy’s and Homewood Toy and Hobby, $29.99.

Mattel’s Disney Planes Runway Flyers by Mattel can soar up to 25 feet. Just snap the plane in the runway launcher and then release. At Learning Express. $19.99, for 5 and up.

Your hand fits inside a mitt and works like a paddle with the Hit Mit. Designed for pairs play, the equipment is safe for inside and even in the water. At Homewood Toy and Hobby. $19.99, for any age.

Christmas Cheer

Squeeze the tummy of the Santa Pig Popper, and out pops a festive green ball. The pig is all dressed up in a Santa suit. At Learning Express, Poppers are also available in other styles and animals. $9.99, for ages 4 and up.

Parents, you know Dasher and Dancer—and the Elf on the Shelf. He’s back, in the Elf on the Shelf Hide and Seek game. You hide the elf, who talks and plays music so that other players can find him. It’s simple enough for little ones but fun for older kids, too. At Snoozy’s, $17.99. At Learning Express, $19.99. For ages 3 and up.

Countdown to Christmas is a wooden tree-shaped calendar that lets kids mark off the days with magnetic ornaments. On the big day, there’s a star for the top of the tree. At Homewood Toy and Hobby. $19.99, for all ages.

Two books with a local flavor are Steve Smallman’s “Santa is Coming to Alabama” and “Santa Is Coming to Birmingham,” with St. Nick soaring over Vulcan and other familiar places. Both are great gifts for families. Snoozy’s and Smith’s have both books; Homewood Toy and Hobby has the Alabama version. Learning Express has the Birmingham version. $9.99, for all ages.

With “The Night Before Christmas” Bedtime Shadow Book, a flashlight is used to cast silhouettes from the book’s pages onto the wall.

Parents, this may be just the thing for kids who are wide awake on Christmas Eve. Hand them the book, turn out the lights and hope for the best. At Snoozy’s. $12.99.

Fun and Games

Speed Stacks challenges players to stack cups in certain patterns as quickly as possible. There are even official competitions featuring this game, but it’s just as much fun to play it unofficially at home. At Smith’s and Learning Express, $7.99-$34.99. At Homewood Toy and Hobby, $16.99$34.99. For ages 5 and up.

Gear Cubes puzzles are takes on Rubik’s Cube. You twist, turn and move the parts with gears. At Smith’s. $19.99 and up, for ages 8-9 or anyone

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Toy Story

OVER THE MOUNTAIN Journal

who likes brainteasers.

Squigz from Fat Brain Toys comes with differently-shaped rubber pieces with suction cups. You can build all kinds of things or hook them onto other objects. “We play with this all the time,” Julie Marix said. At Homewood Toy and Hobby. $24.99, for ages 3 and up.

Ring Stix, a multi-award-winning game, now comes in a smaller size and in a glow-in-the-dark version. A player holds a stick in each hand and flings the sticks apart to launch the rings. The other player tries to catch the rings on his sticks. At Homewood Toy and Hobby, $14.99-$29.99. At Learning Express, $14.99. Some sets are for ages 6 and up; others are for 10 and up.

Steve Sudduth at Smith’s said Tapple is his favorite game. Cards have topics, and players try to name an item that fits the topic, press down the letter key that’s the same as the first letter of the item named and hit the corresponding button on an electronic device--before the timer buzzes. At Smith’s. $19.99, for ages 8 and up.

Cute Critters

Calico Critters are alternatives to traditional dollhouse sets because the little figures are animals, not people.

Homewood Toy and Hobby and Learning Express have a new School Bus Set for $49.99, while Learning Express’s Townhome Gift Set comes with a mouse family and mouse twins plus a bonus living room set for $99.99. More sets are available. For ages 3 and up.

Stuffies are large stuffed animals with seven secret pockets to hold children’s treasures. There’s a large variety of styles at Learning Express. $29.99, for ages 3 and up.

Animails are plastic dogs, turtles and other animals that make nifty gifts for those who live out of town. You write the address on the animal with a Sharpie, put on postage, drop the creature in the mail—and you’re good to go. At Smith’s. $9.99, for all ages.

For Little Hands

The Roll and Play cloth cubeshaped toy is an easy-to-play game.

You roll the cube as you would dice and see what color comes up. Draw a card of that color and follow the simple instructions, like making an animal sound or a happy face. Big brothers and sisters can help by playing along and reading the cards. At Smith’s and Learning Express. $19.99, for ages 18 months up to about 7-8.

Diggity Dog is a game for little ones that older siblings won’t mind playing. The game comes with four plastic dogs with magnetic noses to pick up bone-shaped playing pieces.

At Homewood Toy and Hobby, $23.99. At Learning Express, $24.99.

For ages 3 and up.

Early Melodies Pound and Tap Bench is designed for kids 12 months and older. Tap the hammer on the balls, and they fall to make sweet melodies. At Learning Express. $29.99.

Adora’s Giggle Time Baby has a soft body, a giggle box and is machine washable. Boy and girl dolls are available, and each comes with a carrier.

At Homewood Toy and Hobby and Smith’s. $39.99, for ages 2 and up.

Odds and Ends

Pillows shaped like cupcakes, ice cream cones and other treats are big sellers at Snoozy’s, Jones said. Kids can scrunch up with them or put them in their laps to use as resting places for laptops or homework. For boys, pillows come in a Warheads theme.

At Snoozy’s, $24.99.

The Jackpot Money Ball is a fun way for kids to save. You drop a coin, up to a quarter, in the see-through ball and try to make it go through a maze. If it reaches the bottom, the bank opens. At Smith’s and Learning Express. $29.99, older kids to adults.

Remember Spirograph? Plastic wheels and stencils that you use to make geometric designs? Learning Express and Smith’s have an exclusive Deluxe Spirograph Art Studio, $34.99 for ages 8 and up. Homewood Toy and Hobby and Smith’s and Snoozy’s have deluxe sets for $29.99 that are designed for ages 8 and up.

For girls who love to build things, check out Lego Friends’ Heartlake High. It’s a new building set with a feminine flair. At Learning Express, $49.99. At Homewood Toy and Hobby, $50.99. For ages 6 and up.

Y’all Balls are light, durable—and some are absolutely humongous, from 20-40 inches. They come in bright colors. At Smith’s, $19-$59.99.

At Homewood Toy and Hobby and Snoozy’s, $5.99-$12.99. At Learning Express, $11.99 and up. For ages 5 and up.

The Tooby Loops Fashion Fun Kit by Faber Castel lets kids transform loops into bracelets, headbands, props, custom pencils and more. At Learning Express. $19.99, for ages 5 and up.

Stocking Stuffers

Schwings are winged or lightning bolt-shaped cloth attachments for tennis shoes. They’re guaranteed to make you run faster. Well, no—but they do look pretty awesome. At Snoozy’s. $8.99.

Super Tubes let kids “grow” a dinosaur in water. At Homewood Toy and Hobby. For boys and girls, $3.99.

Flashbandz by Toysmith are colorful flashing bracelets that light up in the dark. At Learning Express. $3.99, for ages 3 and up.

Great Pretenders makes sparkly jewelry for little girls in pink, purple and other fun colors. At Smith’s and Homewood Toy and Hobby. $2.99$5.99.

For older girls, Snoozy’s has Alabama-themed necklaces. The necklaces have Lucite or metal charms shaped like our state. $24.99$29.99.

You can stretch, squeeze and tear pliable Crazy Aaron’s Thinking Putty.

Putties can be glowing, moving or color-changing. At Learning Express, $3.99-$14.99. At Smith’s, $10.99 for large tins. For ages 3 and up.

The seven-piece Desktop Drum Set has a surprisingly great sound for such a small instrument. It’s fun for older kids—and maybe for dad’s office, too. At Homewood Toy and Hobby. $10.99.

Who doesn’t need a Twirling Spaghetti Fork, which is just what it sounds like? At Smith’s. $9.99, for anyone who needs a little help with his pasta. ❖

MORE HOLIDAY SPIRIT THAN A SQUAD OF CHEERLEADING SNOWMEN

Get the inspiration you need to finally put those lights up with ‘Tis the Season.

Red Mountain Theatre Company turns the heat up on the traditional holiday festivities this Dec. 5 – 22.

Get your tickets today at redmountaintheatre.org or by calling 205-324-2424. You’ll be so full of holiday cheer your friends will start avoiding you.

Visit us at WWW . REDMOUNTAINTHEATRE . ORG

TICKETS: 205-324-2424

34 • Thursday, November 14, 2013

Gift Guide

OVER THE MOUNTAIN Journal

holiday gifts over the mountain journal

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h Art Deco Platinum Diamond and Sapphire Filigree Ring Levy’s Fine Jewelry, 251-3381

toys

here’s one in every group: that person who cheerfully announces about mid-July that she’s finished her Christmas shopping. All of it. eFor most of us less industrious folks, however, the calendar has to hit mid-November before we start getting serious about checking names off our gift list. eTo help make that task less daunting, we’ve put together our annual Gift Guide, with lots of selections found close to home at Over the Mountain stores. Many neighborhood merchants are happy to offer suggestions for even the hardest of your hard-to-please relatives and friends. eAnd lots of local shops have free gift wrapping, too. eWe’ve found a wide variety of choices, from splurges to stocking stuffers and everything in between. If you’re ready to get cracking on your holiday shopping, check out our guide before you hit the streets with debit card in hand. eAnd if you’re that “I was done in July” person, congratulations. And never mind.

someone special

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Nightzone Football is a foam football with LED lights for nighttime play, $14.99-$24.99 Homewood Toy & Hobby, Learning Express and Snoozy’s Kids.

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Your holiday parties will not only be memorable but beautiful with this oblong glass board /serving platter. Perfect for serving cheese or any other festive goodies, $180. Wallace-Burke Fine Jewelry & Collectibles, 874-1044.

These Alexis Bittar ruthenium chain link andpyrite earrings, handmade in Brooklyn New York, will have her looking holiday ready, $145.

John Williams Jewelers, 870-4367.

Elf on the Shelf Hide and Seek Game. You hide the elf, who talks and plays music so that other players can find him. Snoozy’s Kids, $17.99, Learning Express, $19.99.

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This precious armoire and bed set for dolls up to 18-inches was hand painted by a local artist and is a classic gift for any girl.

Mary Charles’ Doll House, 870-5544.

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Joyous and glorious, these beautiful driftwood angels will beautify your home not only during the holidays but all through the year, $78. Crestline Pharmacy, 871-0317.

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If someone you love likes to decorate her home down to the last detail, she will love these Sweet Home Alabama kitchen towels! $20.

Marguerites Conceits, 879-2730.

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If the antique lover on your list loves a touch of old-world elegance, this handsome four-foot antique Italian olive jar is the perfect gift, $1,100. Interiors at Pepper Place, 323-2817

Pamper your loved one with Aqualant Spray Moisture Sealant and Skin Protectant. This luxurious product protects your skin from the drying effects of the wind and cold weather associated with the holidays, $36.

Rousso Medical Spa, 930-9595.

Learning Express, and Smith’s Variety and have an exclusive Deluxe Spirograph Art Studio, $34.99 for ages 8 and up. Homewood Toy and Hobby, Snoozy’s and Smith’s have deluxe sets for $29.99 that are designed for ages 8 and up.

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This vintage handmade Afghan kelum covered stool will not only warm the décor of your holiday home but create the perfect resting place for years to come. $300. Paige Albright Orientals, 877-3232.

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Chunky nativity sets that are handcrafted and painted by seniors are lovely collectibles and reminders of the reason of the season. Great for decorating or for children.

PrimeTime Treasures, 870-5555.

f Everyone loves candles!

They make fabulous hostess gifts and we carry many brands and scents including local crafter, Southernness. Prices start at $25.99. Dorothy McDaniel’s Flower Market, 871-0092.

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These gorgeous Firefly Designs bracelet fits any wrist size. Handmade in Guatemala with Swarovski crystals and beads, these mosaic masterpieces are sure to wow any lady on your list. Priced at only $159, this stunning bracelet is affordable, too! Jewels By Rose, 979-5611.

He’ll be competing for cook time with this Evo Companion Classic Wheeled Cart! The ideal grill for creating a social cooking space.

He’ll be the envy of the neighborhood, $3,150.

All South Appliance, 942-0408 Distinctive pillows make beautiful additions to any home. We have a beautiful assortment of pillows from our recent buying trip in Istanbul, Turkey.

Turkish silk ikat pillows are not only beautiful but sure to please. Prices range from $155 - $275.

Centuries Interiors, 879-2295.

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h Colorful and fun, this exclusive Christopher Radko Children’s of Alabama ornament is a gift that will be cherished for years to come and a portion of the sales goes to the hospital, $45.

Bromberg’s, 871-3276, Mountain Brook, 969-1776, The Summit.

Corvette is one of the longest running automotive nameplates with one of the most robust lineages of any car and the newest addition, the C7 Corvette Stingray, will make you forget every GT car that came before it. Any hardworking Santa will look great in it!

Edwards Chevrolet, 716-3300.

g Hanukkah begins this year on Thanksgiving Day, so what better gift than a Hanukkah apron to enjoy all through the holiday season, $22.

The Cook Store, 8795277.

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Thursday, November 14, 2013 • 35

Gift Guide

OVER THE MOUNTAIN Journal

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A sweet gift idea that’s sure to please is a box of goodies from a Birmingham landmark, Savage’s Bakery.

Iced cookies, petit fours and cupcakes with a holiday theme will delight anyone on your list. Savage’s Bakery, 871-4901.

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Make this a holiday she’ll never forget with this 18-carat, double ceylon sapphire ring, signed by Bulgari.

A.M.W., Inc., 870-3588.

f Add the finishing touches to your holiday decorations with this set of three polka-dot flour sack kitchen towels! $12. Fancy Goods Variety, 978-1451.

If that someone special on your list values the very highest standards, traditional craftsmanship and timeless appeal they will love the Montblac pen, starting at $145. Barton Clay, 871-7060.

Get the best of both worlds! Old World class meets modern chic in this gorgeous chandelier for only $805.

Lighting & Lamp, 271-1423.

i f A monogrammed pottery bowl handmade by local artist Susan Dennis Gordon is the perfect gift for the decorator on Santa’s list, $45. Custom sizes, glazes and monograms available. Come see our entire collection.

Chickadee, 969-3138.

g Add to the seasonal charm of your home with Heartfelt Traditions hand-made pottery from Mississippi! Plate, $15, ornament, $15.

Wrapsody, 989-7277.

g f Exclusively at Wild Birds Unlimited – Buttons the Snowman, Preston the Penguin, and Rascal the Raccoon. They are great Christmas/holiday gifts for the nature lover on your list. $4.99 - $16.99.

Wild Birds Unlimited, 823-6500.

h Give Santa’s busy little helper an extra hand with this Taxi Wallet! It’s such a great size to tuck away in any purse or pocket. Great for day or night in lizard grain cowhide. Available in assorted colors, $62. Rosenberger’s, 870-0971.

If dogs are man’s best friends, what could be a better gift than this feel-good dog painting by local artist Kevin Webster? Custom paintings also available.

Arceneaux Gallery, 802-5800.

g Embroidered scarves from Nepal will add the perfect touch to any holiday outfit. Available in assorted colors, $65.

Betsy Prince, 871-1965.

g Dress up your kitchen and bath for the holidays or all year round with precious hand towels. Available in themes of Christmas, dogs, horses, lambs and more, starting at $10.

Attic Antiques, 991-6887.

f For a soft light at your holiday tables without the worry, these battery operated candles made out of real wax are perfect. They come with a remote control and prices range from $16.99 - $44.

Collier’s Nursery, 822-3133.

f She will love these lovely sachets filled with fragrant French lavender. They are as beautiful as they smell, $14.

Antiquities, 870-1030

You’ll be on the “nice” list for sure if you get her a Ronaldo Angelina bracelet created from sterling silver. This bracelet has beautiful etching details and is surrounded by 14-carat gold wire, $249.50.

The Blue Willow, 968-0909.

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A keepsake to treasure for generations, this beautiful German-made hand-carved lighted nativity will make a wonderful addition to your holiday decorations, $350. Lamb’s Ears, Ltd., 802-5700.

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For that person on your list who enjoys being outside under the stars on a cool night by the warm glow of a fire, this “industrial strength” fire pit will last forever and comes in a variety of sizes (stand included). Prices start at $325.

Frontera, Downtown, 320-1900, and Hoover, 987-2633.

36 • Thursday, November 14, 2013

gift guide

OVER THE MOUNTAIN Journal

someone special

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Designer handwoven sterling silver bracelets with one-of-a-kind, interchangeable, natural gemstones are a wonderful gift and sure to bring a smile. These stunning bracelets

by Mariposa range from $179 $579. Shay’s Jewelers.

979-5880.

f Deck out your bathroom this holiday season with these soap baubles. They are “jewelry” for your bath. They look wonderful on a cake plate and are great for your guest bath, $28 for a set of five gems.

Interiors by Kathy Harris, 970-4161.

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Fashionistas on Santa’s list will have so much fun with boot cuffs. They fit over or peek out of your boots. One size fits all, available in gray, tan or black, $12.50. Second Hand Rose, Cahaba Heights, 970-7997, Pelham, 987-7027.

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The Spinnaker Jacket is our new all-weather men’s jacket. With an adjustable hood, reflective details and a tougher-than-nails fabric, you’ll brave windy days and gray skies in style, $225. Vineyard Vines, 800-892-4982.

With Nest Candles’ Holiday Collection, the aroma of a sparkling holiday season is created by blending pomegranate, mandarin orange, pine, cloves and cinnamon with a hint of vanilla and amber. Starting at $20. Mantooth Interiors, 8795474.

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Laurel Bassett hand-dyed silk scarves, $74-$84.

Town & Country Clothes 871-7909.

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Whether you’re in the holiday snow or on the beach, Tom Ford Sunglasses, the “It” sunglasses trending with A-list celebrities, will be enjoyed all year, starting at $325. Monkees of Mountain Brook, 783-1240.

f She’ll look stunning in these vintage Chanel button bracelets. They are authentic vintage pieces strung on freshwater pearls and are also available as leather cuffs or gold or silver bands.

These pieces are fresh, versatile and playful.

Starting at $199. Gallery No. 9, 874-9235.

Maria Elena headbands with Swarovsky crystals on ivory ribbon are not just for weddings anymore but are perfect for any special occasion. The handcrafted designs balance the aesthetics of modern fashion with a signature vintage look. Starting at $500.

The White Room, 970-6767.

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Your precious angel will look so cute this holiday season in one of these monogrammed pocket, long sleeve, comfort color T-shirts! Add a pocket or monogram the existing pocket. Lots h of colors and fabrics available. $25.99 - $30. Kidz Closet & Santa needs to stay healthy and strong for his More, 979-0707. long trip Christmas Eve and these goodies from The Funky Muffin are just what the doctor ordered!

Chocolate chip cookies, $9 dozen, loaf sandwich bread, $7, s’mores kit, $6.50 and a jumbo funky muffin $3. All gluten free! The Funky Muffin Gluten Free Bakery, 408-9825.

h Santa’s helper will never loose her luggage at the airport again with this three-piece luggage set. It’s super durable and super cute! It features four 360-degree swivel wheels, combination locks and push- and-go handles, $389. Pieces also separately. a.k.a.

Girl Stuff, 802-7735.

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Santa’s helpers will love looking through our newest, greatest tennis rackets. The Head Radical Midplus, the Babolat Aeroprove Drive and the Wilson 95S, starting at $175 - $225.

Players Choice Tennis, 985-4989.

h Alabama and Auburn limited edition flip flops are perfect for fall Saturdays and make great holiday gifts. Tide and Tiger fans will love to wear their team colors all year.

Women’s, sizes 6 - 12 and men’s sizes 4-13, $34.99. Flip Flops & What Nots, 967-7429.

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Monogram necklaces add an air of sophistication to any holiday outfit and this one is no exception. She’ll be so delighted to find it under the tree, 2-inch style shown, $36. 1 1/2-inch, $32, and 1-inch, $28. Multiple colors available.

Private Gallery, 969-1559.

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For the seafood lover on your list one size fits all with a gift card from Snapper Grabber’s in Vestavia. Fresh seafood, gumbo, spices and more.

824-9799.

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Your loved one will be driving around in style with this holiday special of $100 off towards a new convertible soft top replacement. Offer valid through the end of the year.

Alabama Auto Tops, 251-4391.

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gift guide

OVER THE MOUNTAIN Journal

home

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f The art collector on your list will love the addition of a portrait by Arthur Stewart (1921-2001), an internationally-known portrait painter, with panels hanging at Milan’s La Scala opera house, the Pentagon in Washington D.C., and in the personal collection of Queen Elizabeth II. He established his studio at Glocca Morra Farm in Cahaba Heights in the late 1950s and was inducted in the Portrait Painters’ Hall of Fame in 1985. $525.

The Nest, 870-1264.

These mercury vanity bottles will not only add a soft feminine statement to her dressing room but can also be used as bud vases.

Available in assorted shapes and sizes, $12.

The Briarcliff Shop, 870-8110.

h This gilded cheese platter will add style to anyone’s dinner table. Combining ancient agate stone with modern electroplating techniques, these stunning pieces are a fusion of the old and the new, $490. Table Matters, 879-0125.

f Nature-inspired items are all the rage this year and these mounted German deer antlers will add rustic charm to your home just in time for the holidays! $79.

Tricia’s Treasures, 8719779.

f Custom art or a portrait by Judy Butler will bring joy into your home for generations.

Hand-drawn portraits are in your choice of media: charcoal, pencil, pastels, watercolor, oil or acrylic. Prices upon request. www.jbutlerart.com.

Judy Butler Portraits, 907-0700.

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h Handmade Miracle Party will keep those dips warm or cool for all your holiday parties this year. Not only are these pieces beautiful but they are also microwave and dishwasher safe. Multiple color are available for $45. Also keep your butter cool with the Miracle Pottery French butter bell, $32. A Little Something, 970-2077.

Beautifully detailed, handmade stoneware crosses

by Laurie Pollpeter Eskeneazi make such meaningful gifts to be enjoyed all year. A’mano, 871-9093.

What better gift to give than the mountain-fresh, cozy and comforting scent of Frasier Fir? Frasier Fir captures the holiday experience in a new, modern tradition that brings forth a feeling of warmth and joy to share with all.

Diffusers, refresher oil, all purpose cleaner, hand soap, bar soap, and a variety of candies.

Baker Lamps and Linens, 981-3330.

f This vintage Italian Majolica charger, “Grazia Deruta,” in a 20-1/2-inch diameter, is a musthave for collectors or decorators looking for that unique piece to add to their collection, $500.

Fifth Avenue Antiques, 3200500.

f During the blustery months of winter, it’s so nice to have a part of the outdoors inside.

This gourd art featuring the work of Peggy Mayo warms the soul! Bowls, vases and sculptures are all for sale. Prices range from $20 - $450. Sizes range from 1”x3” to 20”x20”.

Hanging Around Hoover, 987-7879

Holiday Open House November 23rd!

So Much More Than Antiques!

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Nothing embodies the warmth of the holidays like candles! Bask in the glow of these hand-poured soy candles representing surrounding neighborhoods, with a more than 60-hour burn time. We have fragrances for the holidays and all year round. Monograms Plus, 822-3353.

UrbanSuburban

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She’ll look sharp and stylish in these gorgeous one-of-a-kind pieces of jewelry by Sennod of New Orleans. Several different styles and chain lengths are available along with vintage vignettes to add to her collection. $150-$298. Mulberry Heights Antiques, 870-1300.

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Give the gift of a cleaner and healthier home. The Maids’ three- to four-person team will provide a 22-Step Healthy Touch Deep Cleaning, which makes each home a healthier place to live. $150-$300.

Mention the OTMJ and receive 10 percent off. The Maids, 871-9338.

Antiques • Art • Home 60+ Dealers

2421 Canterbury Road - Mountain Brook - 870-1030 Visit us on Facebook at facebook.com/shopantiquities

592-0777

5514 Crestwood Blvd

urbansuburbanantiques.com

38 • Thursday, November 14, 2013

business

The Right Brew

Seeds Coffee Owner Honored for Local and Global Efforts

By Keysha Drexel Journal editor

A Homewood coffee company has been recognized for its efforts to not only build community here in the Over the Mountain area but also for its commitment to ethical business practices as it works with coffee farmers around the world.

Jeff Huey, a partner in Seeds Coffee Co., was recently nominated for the 2013 Epoch Awards, which honor “unsung heroes” from around the world.

“These are the people that nobody sees and nobody really celebrates,” said Tim Abare of Atlanta, founder of the Epoch Awards. “This is about recognizing people who are open-handed with their times and their gifts and their talents.”

Huey, 33, was nominated for the award because of the work he has been doing since opening Seeds Coffee with some like-minded friends in March 2012. The company first opened as a coffee roaster but expanded in April of this year to include a cafe at 174 Oxmoor Road.

“I’m a pastor, so the idea for Seeds Coffee was birthed out of trying to find a way to build community among people who might be interested in religion and those that might not be, at this point,” he said. “We wanted a common place where people could get together, and we wanted to provide coffee in an ethical and sustainable way.”

Seeds Coffee roasts only fair trade coffee beans and seeks to protect coffee field laborers and their communities around the world, he said.

Huey and his business partners travel the globe to share the message of the Bible and empower farmers, he said.

“We want to buy quality beans from people who are doing it the right way and support them in those efforts and at the same time, we want to honor our customers by offering them great coffee at the right price,” Huey said.

The pastor of Five Points Community Church grew up in Mobile in a church-going family but then distanced himself from his religious upbringing while studying mass communication at Auburn University.

“I kind of dropped out of church and went my own way, but in my fourth year of school at Auburn, I really had a calling to not pursue the avenue I was pursuing and to instead pursue Jesus,” he said. “My dream was to be a sports anchor, but I knew there was something more satisfying that I wanted to do.”

So when he was 21, Huey shocked his friends--and even himself a little bit--and enrolled in seminary school.

“A lot of my friends thought that I had lost my mind,” he said. “It was shocking to me that I did it because

OTM Businesses Win Birmingham Business Alliance Awards Several Over the Mountain businesses were among those recently honored by the Birmingham Business Alliance.

The Birmingham Business Alliance hosted its 2013 Small Business Awards at the Sheraton Birmingham Hotel in October, naming the BBA Small Business Executive of the Year and award winners in nine competitive categories.

Jeff Huey, right, talks with Aurelio Villatoro, a coffee farmer and church planter in Huehuetenango, Guatemala. Photo special to the Journal

before, I wouldn’t have defined myself as a truth-seeker at all. I did lose some friends and got a few odd looks from my family, but I knew I had to live based on what I felt compelled to do. It’s kind of the same reason we started the coffee shop.”

The faith-defined purpose of the company is all about making people feel valued, Huey said, whether that means building friendships with customers at the cafe or with farmers halfway around the world.

“I guess it really is the Golden Rule in action,” he said. “The person serving you at the cafe cares about you and what’s going on in your day, and we care about the lives of the children of the farmers in Indonesia and want to make them better.”

Seeds Coffee offers coffee blends from Ethiopia, Indonesia, Kenya, Guatemala, Honduras and Brazil.

Most of the coffee is bought from private farmers in those countries.

“Traveling around the globe to these coffee farms is a learning tool, spiritually and also in a business way.

You really see that there are hundreds of people involved in bringing that pot of coffee to the table, and we want to make sure that these farmers are not getting run over by rich Americans who are only interested in making a profit,” he said.

Huey said he thinks the business’s early success comes down to being “honest and transparent and providing a welcoming environment people are attracted to while at the same time giving a great product.”

Huey, a self-described “coffee nerd,” wasn’t always crazy about java.

“Starbucks started getting popular in the late 1990s and even though I thought coffee was gross, I would go in there to study. I felt bad about not buying anything, so I would buy a sweet, syrupy coffee, but soon I couldn’t afford $4.50 for coffee every day.”

That’s when Huey decided to start drinking his coffee black.

“I would get a small black coffee and from there, I started to develop a taste and realize that you didn’t have to douse good coffee with a lot of creamer and sugar,” he said.

From there, Huey said, he sought to educate himself on the many ways coffee beans can be grown and processed and how that affects the taste of each cup.

“Now, I study coffee intensely-everything from how hot the water should be to brew it to the texture we get from grinding,” he said. “In Indonesia, for example, they grow and drink coffee in a completely different way than we do, and it’s been fun to learn about all those differences and nuances.”

At the moment, Huey said, he is loving an Ethiopian coffee that Seeds Coffee offers.

“It’s a really different tasting coffee in that it almost tastes like a tea,” he said. “It’s unique and very good.”

Huey said he was humbled to be among the 20 finalists for the 2013 Epoch Awards and was thrilled when those attending were served Seeds Coffee at the awards ceremony at the Fox Theatre in Atlanta on Oct. 28.

“It was a milestone experience that affirmed that we’re doing something that the Lord wants us to continue,” Huey said.

Plans are being made now to build an outdoor patio at the cafe and to create an outdoor playground for patrons’ children.

“We want to be the coffee shop that is community-driven and not one where you feel like you have to be hip to even come in,” Huey said.

Seeds Coffee is open Monday through Friday from 6:30 a.m.-10 p.m. and on Saturdays from 7:30 a.m.-11 p.m. For more information, visit www.seedscoffee.com or call 259-6405. ❖

OVER THE MOUNTAIN Journal

From left: Jim Meads, Becky White and Joe Meads of Sain Associates accept the Small Business of the Year Award for companies with up to 50 employees. Photos special to the Journal Brian Hilson, president of the BBA, said small business is an important component of the Birmingham region’s diverse local economy and therefore is worthy of celebration.

“Telling the story of Birmingham’s small businesses to the world is essential to our work at the Birmingham Business Alliance,” Hilson said. “That’s why once a year we honor small businesses and their champions, to understand what these companies do and how they operate, which reveals a lot about Birmingham’s thriving

Jennifer Skjellum, center, president of TechBirmingham, presents Louie Henry, left, and Harvey Nix of Proventix Systems Inc. with the Technology/Biotechnology Business of the Year Award. economy.”

Bob Dickerson, executive director of the Birmingham Business Resource Center, was named Small Business Executive of the Year. In a partnership with Samford University, Dickerson will serve as Executive in Residence at the university’s Brock School of Business during the 2013-14 school year.

In the nine competitive awards categories, Slice Brew & Pizza in the Lakeview district was named Emerging Business of the Year. Fleetio and Kemp

Management Solutions LLC were finalists.

Urban Cookhouse, which has locations in Homewood, Mountain Brook and at The Summit, received the Retail Business of the Year Award.

Dorothy McDaniel’s Flower Market and Gus Mayer were finalists in the retail category.

Tonya Jones of the Tonya Jones Salon in Cahaba Village Plaza received the Young Professional of the Year Award. Krista Conlin of KC Projects and Nicole Beachum of NicoleBeachum. com were finalists.

Proventix Systems Inc. on Valleydale Road received the Technology/ Biotechnology Business of the Year Award. ProctorU and Atlas RFID Solutions were finalists in that category.

Sain Associates on Perimeter Parkway received the Small Business of the Year Award for businesses with up to 50 employees. Sain Engineering Associations Inc. and Marketing 24/7

Elan Morosini, right, of Silvertron Café presents David Snyder of Urban Cookhouse with the Retail Business of the Year Award.

Inc. were finalists.

Other winners included McSweeney Holdings, which received the Small Business of the Year Award for businesses with 51-250 employees, and SARCOR LLC, which received the Dr. A.G. Gaston Emerging Minority or Woman-owned Business Award.

Big Brothers Big Sisters of Greater Birmingham was named Nonprofit of the Year for organizations with a budget of less than $1 million. Finalists were PreSchool Partners and Metro Changers Inc. In the category for nonprofits with a budget of more than $1 million, First Light Women’s and Children’s Shelter won the Nonprofit of the Year Award.

The Arc of Jefferson County and Pathways were finalists.

Also at the event, Susan Matlock, who is retiring as executive director of Innovation Depot, received special recognition for her work in building the largest business incubator in the Southeast.

Also receiving honorary awards at the 2013 event were the law firm of Bradley Arant Boult Cummings LLP as Small Business Champion of the Year; Glyn Agnew and Cassandra Ferguson, both of AT&T Alabama, as the Jesse J. Lewis Jr. Small Business Advocates of the Year, and the Birmingham Barons as Legacy Business of the Year.❖

New Interiors Shop Opens in Cahaba Heights Shoppers in Vestavia Hills now have a new place to find fresh options for their homes’ interiors.

restaurant.

The restaurant is owned and operated by Mason Jambon in Birmingham and partners Paul Primeaux and Deborah Sulzer in New Orleans.

For more information, visit www.

DixieFish.com.

Wedding Gown Shop Opens in Bluff Park

Donnie Drake and Greg Carroll opened DrakeCarroll Interiors in Cahaba Heights on Sept. 20.

Journal photo by Julie Edwards

DrakeCarroll Interiors opened Sept.

20 in Cahaba Heights on Dolly Ridge Road.

Owned by Donnie Drake and Greg Carroll, the shop is just across from Murphree’s Market and is open Monday through Friday from 10 a.m.-6 p.m. and on Saturdays from 11 a.m.-4 p.m.

Drake said he looked around at decor trends and realized they were becoming “taupe-drab” and needed some colorful inspiration.

To open the interiors business, Drake teamed up with Carroll, who has a background in education and an eye for color design.

The goal of the new business, Drake said, is to guide customers through their interior design decisions by providing fresh options in furniture and home decor.

For more information, visit www. drakecarroll.com or call 968-8132.

Dixie Fish Company Now Open on U.S. 280 Dixie Fish Company opened at 101 Resource Parkway, just past the River Ridge Shopping Center on U.S. 280 this fall.

The 9,500-square-foot restaurant has indoor and outdoor seating and a large patio bar.

Executive Chef Gregg Collier said the aim of the restaurant is to highlight the South’s style and flavor.

Collier is a graduate of the Culinary Institute of America at Hyde Park and has worked alongside some of New Orleans’ most celebrated chefs, including Jamie Shannon, executive chef of Commander’s Palace, the James Beard Award-winning Brennan

Mason Jabon and his partners have opened Dixie Fish Company on U.S. 280. Photo special to the Journal

Thursday, November 14, 2013 • 39

Business

OVER THE MOUNTAIN Journal

After working in retail in the Over the Mountain area for several years, a Vestavia Hills woman has opened her own business to cater to fashionconscious brides looking for good deals.

Meredith Carter, 25, opened Bustle, a luxury wedding gown consignment boutique in Bluff Park in August.

“I opened Bustle out of the love for the finer things and a realization that Birmingham is full of style-savvy brides who would die for a Vera Wang wedding gown at a fraction of the retail cost,” Carter said.

Bustle specializes in designer, vintage and sample wedding gowns on consignment, she said.

Before taking the helm of her own business, Carter worked at Doree, a

mile from where we grew up, so it’s a homecoming for us.”

The store’s new website is www. johnwilliamjeweller.com.

Homewood Design Company Expands A year after first opening its doors, a design company is expanding in Homewood and changing its name.

E Homewood Interiors opened in its 1,800-square-foot studio during last year’s Holiday Open House celebration in Homewood. Now, one year later, the company is moving into a new 20,000-square-foot gallery showroom and rebranding itself as Stock & Trade

Design Co. Located at 3408 Independence Drive, it offers a wide selection of custom upholstery, furniture, lighting, rugs, accessories, unique objects, antiques and custom pieces from local artisans.

“We’re committed to providing beautiful and affordable home furnishings--pieces infused with clean lines, modern sensibility and classic style,” said Christopher Rankin, one of the “faces” of the company.

Rankin said Stock & Trade Design Co. is a new venture for owners Michael and Marina Carey.

Barbara Williams and Kimber Bathie are also on the company’s design team.

For details, call 783-1350. ❖

From left: Barbara Williams, Christopher Rankin and Kimber Bathie of Stock & Trade Design Co. Photo special to the Journal

MONEY-SAVING ENERGY EFFICIENCY IDEAS

SIMPLE WAYS TO SAVE IN THE KITCHEN.

Meredith Carter of Vestavia Hills recently opened Bustle, a luxury wedding gown consignment boutique in Bluff Park. Photo special to the Journal women’s boutique on 18th Street in Homewood for four years. She was the store’s manager for two of those years in addition to being its primary buyer.

Bustle is at 589 Shades Crest Road, Suite A in Hoover. For more information, visit www.BustleGowns or call 5027484.

Jewelry Business Moves to Mountain Brook The former owners of The Diamond Dealer in Homewood have changed the name of their business and moved to a new location.

Brothers John and William “Billy” Bromberg recently opened John-William Jeweller at 81 Church Street in Crestline Village.

The business specializes in designer and antique jewelry.

Billy Bromberg said the name change and the relocation idea came about all at once.

“We received a call from a realtor with an offer for a spot in Crestline Village,” he said. “We saw it as a tremendous opportunity, even though relocating was not something we had discussed.”

Billy said he and John discussed using the timing of the move to re-launch The Diamond Dealer as JohnWilliam Jeweller.

“We will miss Homewood, but this (new) location is less than a quarter-

For over 50 years Alabama Power’s rates have been below the national average, but there are still some easy things you can do around your home to save money and energy.

1

2

3

4

Make sure your refrigerator seals are tight by closing the door on a dollar bill.

If it slides out easily when the door is closed, you may need an adjustment or new seals.

Cover foods in your refrigerator.

Uncovered foods release moisture affecting the temperature, taste of food and time the compressor has to run.

Use pots sized for each heating element and cover when boiling water. The water will boil faster and you will expend less energy heating a properly sized pot.

Run the dishwasher only when it is full, but not overloaded.

Scrape plates,but don’t pre-wash before putting them in the dishwasher. And, allow plates to air dry when possible.

Scan the code or visit AlabamaPower.com/save for more seasonal energy savings ideas.

© 2013 Alabama Power Company

POWI-3326 Appliances_5.75.indd 1

10/16/13 3:25 PM

40 • Thursday, November 14, 2013

Mountain brook special section

OVER THE MOUNTAIN Journal

Shop the Villages of Mountain Brook This Holiday Season!

Crestline Village

Open House November 21

Mountain Brook Village Open House December 5

English Village

Open House December 4

Holiday Parade

December 8, 3pm Mountain Brook Village

OVER THE MOUNTAIN Journal

A’Mano A’Mano is a unique store located in the Mountain Brook Shopping Center.

“Our vision at A’Mano is to showcase pottery, glass, gifts, jewelry and accessories by national and local artisans.” says owner, Lynn Ritchie, above. “We offer many one of a kind items.”

“It is hard to believe that this will be our 16th year in operation. We are always changing and growing.

“A’Mano is a great spot to find a special gift for an anniversary, birthday or special event. We are known for our wonderful selection of greeting cards, especially the “New Yorker” cartoon cards.

“The store will be open on Sundays from 1-5 p.m. after Thanksgiving. The residents of Mountain Brook and surrounding areas have faithfully supported our store and we are so appreciative. We host an Annual Customer

Mountain brook special section

Appreciation Night Sale and Party on Nov. 14 from 5-8 p.m. with 20 precent off all items.

We will serve festive food and beverages. The Dreamcakes cupcake truck will also be here!

“We will also have a party the night of Dec. 5

‘It is hard to believe that this will be our 16th year in operation.’ when the entire Mountain Brook Village hosts an Open House. Surprise store specials will be available that night as well.

“A’Mano has become a Mountain Brook tradition offering the perfect gift selection and complementary gift wrap always. Visit us at www.amanogifts.com and like us on Facebook for special offers and discounts!!

A’Mano is located at 2407 Culver Road in Mountain Brook, 871-9093.

Mountain Brook • 2707 Culver Road 871.9093

Bromberg’s Bromberg’s is a name that has been synonymous with quality in Alabama for 177 years.

Bromberg’s has been a part of Alabama traditions—from diamonds and fine jewelry to a selection of the finest gifts, china and crystal available anywhere in the south.

“We have thrived all these years because our customers are our friends and our neighbors,” says Ricky Bromberg, pictured above. “The Bromberg’s experience has always been about family and community, trust, quality and loyalty.”

Bromberg & Company was founded in 1836 and has the distinction of being the longest standing family-owned retail store in the US. The company opened it’s first Birmingham location in 1900. The Mountain Brook store opened in 1959 and has become a landmark in the com-

Thursday, November 14, 2013 • 41

munity.

“I have worked at the store as long as I can remember, literally beginning at age 6 operating the elevator at the downtown store. As a child, our family life and the store’s operations were so interwoven that I always knew this was what I wanted to do as my career.

“I view my role with a great sense of responsibility. Our business was built by six generations of my family and we owe it to them and of course, to all our customers to maintain our company’s mission to provide and unforgettable and enjoyable luxury shopping experience.”

To find out about the many special events happening at Bromberg’s this holiday season, like Bromberg’s on Facebook and go to www. brombergs.com to join our email newsletter list.

Bromberg’s is at 2800 Cahaba Road in Mountain Brook, 871-3276 and 131 Summit Blvd. The Summit, 969-1776.

42 • Thursday, November 14, 2013

Christine’s This year will be Christine’s 41st Christmas in Mountain Brook Village. The Christmas window has become a tradition that young and old look forward to each year according to Jean Clayton, owner, above.

She remembers the elaborate windows the stores in downtown Birmingham always had during the holiday season.

“For the younger children it is such magic,” Jean says of the display her shop does every year. “Diversity of merchandise keeps the store interesting. While frames, fragrances, linens and MacKenzie Childs are the mainstay, you will find a broad selection of gifts and accessories too.

“Gifts under $20 this year include a calendar tea towel made in France, “emergency”

Mountain brook special section

kits with 17 items (fits in handbag), AuburnAlabama gifts, Christmas pins, plus stocking stuffers.

MacKenzie-Childs Christmas candles come in a hand-painted candle holder, also suitable for use as a vase. New this year is the small leather purse that charges your phone on the go, up to two times. The purse holds essential items but will fit into your handbag. And, when you purchase $300 in merchandise, you will receive a MacKenzie-Childs ice bucket (retail value $74 See store for details).

“We offer complimentary gift wrap and accept Visa, MasterCard and American Express.”

Christine’s is located at 2411 Montevallo Road in Mountain Brook Village, 871-8297.

Bagatelle is located at 2415 Montevallo Road, 414-6001.

OVER THE MOUNTAIN Journal

Crestline Pharmacy The Hammers and Cobb families have remained close since they first became friends during their college days at Samford University.

Pictured above, from left, are Scooter and Susie Hammers and Jan and Mike Cobb.

Their children have grown up together and Crestline Pharmacy has been part of their lives since 1990.

“We feel like our employees and customers are family, too. There is always a friendly, neighborhood feeling around here. Some people come from just around the corner and others travel from various parts of town to enjoy the personal service we offer. We’re open seven days a week. We have in-store charge accounts and free delivery. We continue to welcome new customers to the pharmacy and to our gift shop.

“We offer familiar lines like Beatriz Ball,

Willow Tree, J. Devlin, Mark Roberts, Glory Haus, Magnolia Lane, Caffco, Mud Pie and others. A very popular trend this year is Driftwood and Naturals. We have a large selection of angels, nativities and ornaments, as well as

‘We feel like our employees and customers are family, too. There is always a friendly, neighborhood feeling around here.’

almost any gift or decorative item you might need for the holidays.

“We are now offering our entire Christmas line in the main store so that you can enjoy shopping during any of our regular store hours.

Please join us and let us share our friendly shopping experience with you!”

Crestline Pharmacy is located at 60 Church Street in Crestline, 871-0317.

2013 collection

christine's + bagatelle

2415 Montevallo Road . Mountain Brook Village . 871.8297

Crestline Pharmacy Christmas 60 Church Street

871-0317

Mon.- Fri. 8am-8pm • Sat. 8am - 6pm • Sun 10am-6pm

Mountain brook special section

OVER THE MOUNTAIN Journal

Henhouse Antiques Ashford Hill for Henhouse Antiques, nestled at the top of English Village, opened it’s doors 16 years ago this fall. Owners Barbara Ashford, above right, and Judy Hill, left, said they love

‘The shop has a wonderful selection of tables and chairs for holiday dining...Sparkling with ornaments, trees, tabletop pieces, hostess gifts and vintage jewelry, Henhouse Antiques looks forward to helping you celebrate the holidays.’

what they do!

Henhouse Antiques offers beautiful, unique pieces personally selected by Barbara and Judy.

Traveling Europe several times each year, they gather a collection of antique treasures which include furnishings as well as beautiful accessories from the traditional to the unexpected.

“Our collection is a fresh approach to decorating,” the owners said. “We enjoy mixing English with French, 18th century and primitive with formal.

“The shop has a wonderful selection of tables and chairs for your holiday dining, varying from formal English to French farm.

Sparkling with ornaments, trees, tabletop pieces, hostess gifts and vintage jewelry, Henhouse Antiques looks forward to helping you celebrate the holidays!”

Henhouse Antiques is located at 1900 Cahaba Road in English Village, 918-0505.

Life in the 21st Century means taking the best of history and making it work for you. ~designer Miles Redd~

English Village 1900 Cahaba Road Birmingham, AL 35223

905.918.0505 www.henhouseantiques.com

Lamb’s Ears, Ltd. Lamb’s Ears, Ltd. sells beautiful home décor items from rugs to furniture to lamps to original art.

“We are also well known for a wide variety of gift items for every taste and every price range,” say owners, Elizabeth Roberts, above left, and Julie Howell, right. “We also offer complimentary gift wrap.

“Lamb’s Ear began in Cahaba Heights 20-plus years ago. We moved to Crestline in May 2001. While we miss being in Cahaba Heights, we love Crestline Village and all the friends we have made here.

“Anyone who has owned their own business knows that it involves hard work, but we find every day a wonderful new adventure as we meet new customers and enjoy our long-

Thursday, November 14, 2013 • 43

standing customers who have followed us to Crestline.

“We’re carrying on the wonderful 12 Days of Christmas tradition from Dec. 9 - Dec. 21

‘We are also well known for a wide variety of gift items for every taste and every price range.’ during which we offer promotions and discounts on different items each day as well as serving special refreshments. In addition we’re having three jewelry trunk shows during the holiday season--Sherri Fairbairn on Nov. 25, Leigh Ann Hurst on Dec. 5 and 6, and Bittersweet Designs mid-December.

Lamb’s Ears, Ltd. is located at 70 Church Street in Crestline Village, 802-5700.

44 • Thursday, November 14, 2013

Smart Skin Med Spa “At Smart Skin Med Spa, we are taking your skin care to the next level by introducing to you Smart Skin’s new Home and Travel Device including our never-before-sold exclusive Smart Skin gel packed full of the highest amino acids, skin protectants, skin hydrators and collagens,”says Lacey Edwards, co-owner, pictured above.

“This device will help with fine lines, wrinkles, shrink pores and will even out skin tone, texture and promote over all skin health.

You can get these great benefits from your home skin care regiment by adding these five-minute treatments.

“If you are already a Smart Skin monthly skin care member, this device is perfect to enhance your monthly treatments at home or on the go. This device also makes a great gift

Mountain brook special section

for college student to help them maintain clean, clear and radiant skin even during those busy times-- or keep it for yourself to promote antiaging and maintain your skin’s health. This lightweight and cordless hand held device with

‘It’s time to take skin care one step further with Smart Skin.’ our Smart Skin gel is fun and easy to use. It’s time to take skin care one step further with Smart Skin.

“We have special introductory pricing available for pre-orders. Spend $350 and receive a $300 gift certificate to use towards skin care services or products.

The gift certificates can be used for yourself or broken up to be given as multiple gifts.”

Smart Skin Med Spa is located at 32 Church Street in Crestline, 871-8707.

Table Matters Table Matters is the place to visit for all of your entertaining needs, especially when it comes to the holidays! The friendly staff is happy to assist you as you browse their extensive selection of pottery, stemware, serving pieces, fine china and seasonal décor. In addition to tableware, Table Matters offers many items for home décor such as lamps, chandeliers, consoles, side tables, and coffee tables. Here are some of the staff’s picks for a great holiday gift: Harriet –Craven Tappas Plates; Mary Beth- Cashmere scented candle by Linneas Lights; Emily- Framed Geode Slice by Liz Legg; Brooke- American Barware by William Yeoward; GingerAnnieglass Dipping Bowl; and Ellen- Rablab Stone cheese slab.

OVER THE MOUNTAIN Journal

Table Matters began planning its fall and holiday trunk shows in early 2013.

“We specialize in ceramics and glass created by craftsmen from all over the country, “ says owner Patricia Murray above with potter Ian Craven.”

“I enjoy being able to bring these artists to Birmingham for our customers to meet and see special one-of-a-kind pieces.

“During our Holiday Open House we will host Liz Legg with her beautiful organic ceramic bowls and her new geo slices framed.

In addition, we will host Beth Ellis with her handmade gift tags. Personalization is available. Richie Watts will be here with his made in Mississippi pottery on Dec. 14 for a special signing event. Mark your calendars and we hope to see you!”

Table Matters is located at 2404 Montevallos Road in Mountain Brook, 879-0125.

V2V_BW ad.pdf

The Cook Store

The Cook Store is a kitchen specialty shop featuring functional pottery, pots, pans and gadgets for cooking and entertaining.

“The Cook Store has been a fixture in Mountain Brook since 1975,” says owner Wesley Lassen, above.

The Cook Store exclusively carries pottery skillets and sauce pans from The Pottery Works that are stovetop safe on both gas or electric cooktops. The store also offers kitchen linens, bakeware, cookware and more.

“You can choose from All Clad stainless steel cookware, Doughmakers bakeware, Wusthof knives and pottery from local potters like Tena Payne of Earthborn Studios, Wade Oliver Pottery and Gidge Black Pottery.

“We are looking forward to a crazy holiday season of selling, selling, selling and wrapping, wrapping and more wrapping. We have lots of great gift ideas for the person who has everything and the person who doesn’t have enough. Come check out our pottery, our many Himilayan Pink Salt items, Soapstone grills, whiskey stones, coasters, napkin rings, and lots more gift items. Our Holiday Open House is Dec. 5 and we will be open for the Christmas Parade on Dec. 8.”

The Cook Store is located at 2841 Cahaba Road in Mountain Brook Village, 879-5277.

Thursday, November 14, 2013 • 45

Mountain brook special section

OVER THE MOUNTAIN Journal

1

10/14/10

1:01 PM

Presents

Town & Country Clothes

Town & Country Clothes in Crestline Village in Mountain Brook, features unique clothing and accessories for women of all ages.

The store has been located in Crestline Village since 1943.

‘Our customers can find truly special gifts, with one-of-a-kind accessories, including handmade jewelry, hand-dyed wraps, artisan belts, and specialty shoes and purses.’

“Our customers can find truly special gifts, with one-of-a-kind accessories, including handmade jewelry, hand-dyed wraps, artisan belts, and speciality shoes and purses,” says Laurel Bassett, owner, above.

“Comfortable shoes from Bernie Mev, versatile purses from Baggallini, Lampe Berger fragrance oils, and Fairhope Soy Candles always make great gifts.”

Town & Country Clothes is located at 74 Church Street in Crestline Village, 871-7909.

Give what you love...

Love what you give!

Earthborn Studios Pottery by Tena Payne of Birmingham

2841 Cahaba Road Mtn. Brook Village • 879-5277 M-F 10-5 • Sat 10-4 www.thecookstoremtnbrook.com LaureL Bassett JeweLry and scarves, Bernie Mev shoes and BaggaLLini Purses aLways Make great gifts!

To: thecookstore@msn.com From: Over The Mountain Journal, PHONE: 205-823-9646 FAX: 205-824-1246 Date: Nov. 2013 This is your AD PrOOF from the OvEr THE MOuNTAiN JOurNAl for the 11-14-13., 2013 74 issue.

Please changes to 824-1246.

Church Streetfax•approval CrestlineorVillage Mon.-Fri. 10-5 & Sat. 10-4 • 871-7909

Please makewww.townandcountryclothes.com sure all information is correct, including address and phone number!

Please initial and fax back within 24 hours.

mountain brook chamber of commerce

January 25, 2014 register at welcome to mountainBrook.com

46 • Thursday, January 12, 2012

Holiday in the hills

A Little Something* AAA Alabama* AC Financial Partners Alfano Computer Solutions* Alliance Publishing Group Annabelle’s/Vestavia Hills Apothecary* ARC Realty* Artists Incorporated* Best Nails* Birmingham School of Music* The Blue Willow* The Bridge* Bruster's Real Ice Cream* Cahaba Fitness* Cameras Brookwood* Chickadee* Collage Designer Consignment* Contri Bros. Gift Basket Crabtree Computer/Sunshine Internet Marketing* Cross Construction DrakeCarroll Interiors* Fancy Goods Variety* First Partners Bank* Focus MD, Birmingham Golden Living-Riverchase The Heavenly Donut Company* Hilton Garden Inn-Liberty Park* Houliang Massage* In the Zone Publications Interiors and Antiques Market* Jewels by Rose*

OVER THE MOUNTAIN Journal

The Jimmie Hale Mission Kidz Closet* Klingler’s European Bakery & Café * La Catrina Mexican Cantina* Mary Kay Cosmetics-Susie Serio Mason Music-Cahaba Heights* Mia Moda* MiBella Wellness Center Milestones Behavior Consulting* Monograms Plus* The New York Butcher Shoppe* Newk's Eatery-Vestavia Hills* Old Oak Advisors Primrose School at Liberty Park* Promotional Creations* RealtySouth-Liz Phillips Guest Renasant Bank Mortgage Lending* Sarver Orthodontics* Seniors Helping Seniors Siham’s Grill and Sweets* St. Vincent’s Health System Standard Heating & Air Conditioning Co. State Farm Insurance-John Henley Agency* Subway-Liberty Park* Tucker Family Dentistry* Tutoring Club* TWO MEN AND A TRUCK* Vestavia Bowl* Vestavia Hills Parks & Recreation Foundation* Webster Electric* The Wine Cellar*

Stop by the Business Expo at the Tree Lighting Festival on December 3!

Visit www.vestaviahills.org for the most current list.

Thursday, January 12, 2012 • 47

Holiday in the hills

OVER THE MOUNTAIN Journal

Prize Passport

Pick up a Prize Passport from the Vestavia Hills Chamber of Commerce office or from any of the merchants listed on the opposite page with a star (*) by their name. Then collect stamps from 3 different business districts listed in the passport. Each district has a different stamp.

Once your passport is complete, turn it in at the Chamber Office (1975 Merryvale Road, Vestavia Hills, 35216) by December 6, or at the Tree Lighting Festival on December 3.

We will have a drawing on December 7 at 9:00 am at the Breakfast with Santa for an iPad, a Regions Bank bicycle, and a $100 Chamber gift check.

No purchase necessary to receive stamps. One entry per person.

North 31

South 31

Columbiana Road

Rocky Ridge

Liberty Park

Cahaba Heights

Calendar of Events Open House Kick Off Party November 14 Vestavia Hills Civic Center, 3:30-5:30 pm

& November 21 New Merkle House, 3:30-5:30 pm Join us for children’s crafts and light refreshments! The first 100 people who attend will receive an insulated tote bag filled with coupons and flyers from participating merchants.

Please only attend one party.

Merchant Open Houses November 14-16 North 31, South 31, & Columbiana Road

& November 21-23 Rocky Ridge, Liberty Park, & Cahaba Heights Participating merchants will be hosting open houses in their businesses and offering discounts and refreshments for shoppers. Be sure to pick up a Prize Passport and collect the merchant stamps to be entered in a drawing for an iPad and other prizes!

Tree Lighting Festival December 3 Vestavia Hills Civic Center, 6:00 pm Enjoy live entertainment, a business expo, the lighting of the tree and a visit with Santa!

Breakfast with Santa December 7 Vestavia Hills Civic Center, 7:30-10:00 am Enjoy a pancake breakfast with Santa. $1 Suggested Donation

Liberty Park Christmas Parade & Celebration December 8 Liberty Park Sports Complex to Alston Meadows, 2:00-4:00 pm Enjoy the city’s official parade followed by the Liberty Park Christmas Celebration with children’s activities, refreshments, live entertainment, pictures with Santa and more!

Visit www.vestaviahills.org for an extended list of events Presented by the City of Vestavia Hills & the Vestavia Hills Chamber of Commerce

48 • Thursday, November 14, 2013

Birmingham Speech and Hearing Associates Birmingham Speech and Hearing Associates is a private clinic providing audiology services as well as speech pathology diagnostics and therapy for children and adults. Complete hearing evaluations, audiology consultations, hearing aid sales, service and repairs are available for all major manufacturers including Oticon, ReSound, Phonak, Lyric, and Widex Birmingham Speech and Hearing is a family owned business which has been in the same location between Homewood and Mountain Brook for 30 years.

“I’ve been really fortunate to work alongside some wonderful people who have incredible professional expertise and who are

Holiday in the Hills

also my friends, says director Cynthia Serota, pictured above center with Ferne McClintock, left, and Christine Lanier.

“We really make an extra effort to be a very welcoming place, but because everyone here is so genuinely caring and friendly, concern for the well being of others just happens naturally.

“In a way, we really don’t look at our profession as work. We receive great reward from our efforts to help others make improvements to their lives. The technology and services we provide for our clients are absolutely state-of-the-art and of the highest quality.

“We operate each day with an emphasis on compassion and genuine caring for our clients and their families. Each person really does matter to us.”

Birmingham Speech and Hearing Associates is located at 4 Office Park Circle Suite 301, 871-3878.

OVER THE MOUNTAIN Journal

Kidz Closet & More

are and how they change over the years, and then satisfying their needs is very rewarding.

Kidz Closet & More carries children’s, teens, and maternity consignment clothes as well as new clothing for children up to size 16. They also carry gifts and toys.

“We do monogramming on site and have several custom/personalized items such as heat press shirts, hand stamped jewelry, drink tumblers, stationary, keychains, bag tags and more,” says owner Karol Leggett, above.

“We would like all Vestavia residents to shop locally, so we are stocked up on all gifts, ornaments, toys and clothing.”

“We have been in business since 2007 and listening to customer’s needs has always been a key.

We used to only carry clothing up to size 8 but we had so many customers wanting clothing for their girls that had outgrown those styles that we added tween clothing and now have a large selection.

Being able to listen to what our customers’ needs

Kidz Closet & More plans for 12 months for the winter holidays, and our first goal is to offer the community products that are both unique and at a fair price.

“Kidz Closet & More plans for 12 months for the winter holidays, and our first goal is to offer the community products that are both unique and at a fair price. We look for items that are not in every store, and that a child or adult would be excited to receive as a holiday gift. We also like to have events that are fun for all of our customers.”

Kidz Closet & More is located at 640 Montgomery Highway South in Vestavia Hills, 979-0707.

Holiday Open House!

Thursday, Friday & Saturday Nov. 14-16 Elves & Accessories 25% off Stockings, Tree Skirts, Aprons…

50% monogram of these items Enter to Win FREE merchandise..

1 entry for every $10 spent…

Ipad Drawing- bring in your Holiday in the Hills Passport

www.kidzclosetonline.com

640 Montgomery Highway Birmingham, Al 205.979.0707

Thursday, November 14, 2013 • 49

Holiday in the Hills

OVER THE MOUNTAIN Journal

Shopping Is Fun at Fancy Goods

Fancy Goods Variety

Wild Birds Unlimited Wild Birds Unlimited is a unique specialty shop that ‘brings people and nature together’ for the purpose of enjoying the hobby of backyard bird feeding. The store has been in the Hoover area since 1991.

“We offer bird feeders, bird baths, nature products, and other unique gifts for giving to and sharing with friends and family,” says owner Joe Perez.

“Our Certified Bird Feeding Specialists (Barb, Davina, Lisa, Lyn, Tracy, and Vernon) are experienced and friendly and willing to help you enjoy nature! We stock the best and the freshest bird food in town. We have seed blends that are specifically formulated for the local Birmingham area birds. Be sure to visit us during the Christmas season when we feature our Christmas seed blends, suet, cylinders,

and seed wreaths. Preston the Penguin, Buttons the Snowman, and Rascal the Raccoon (found exclusively at WBU) are our newest seed cylinder offerings.

“Come in to see our beautiful and unique items for your Christmas/holiday gift giving. We have many sizes and colors of hand-tuned Corinthian Bells wind chimes, decorative bird feeders and bird houses, our WBU exclusive Advanced Pole System, and our WBU branded and fully guaranteed tube feeders, hopper feeders, hummingbird feeders, and platform feeders.

Our Eliminator Squirrel Proof feeder is also the best squirrel proof feeder available, period!

“Come in and experience the unique shopping experience that is WBU! We offer complimentary gift wrapping for the gifts you purchase for your bird loving enthusiasts!”

Wild Birds Unlimited is located at 1580 Montgomery Highway, 823-6500.

Merry Christmas from

Wild Birds Unlimited

Birdfood • feeders garden accents • unique gifts 1580 Montgomery Hwy Birmingham • 823-6500 www.wbu.com/birmingham Joe Perez • Owner/Operator

Fancy Goods Variety is a variety store specializing in gifts, toys, party goods and gift wrap.

“We have been in business for one year and nine months. We opened our doors in February of 2012,” says Leslie Self, pictured above right with Carmen Clower, left, and Diane Clower, center.

“We are a Toys for Tots drop site through Dec. 7. We have a great selection of toys available.

“Our Holiday in the Hills kickoff on Nov. 15 from 4-6 p.m. will feature many door prizes.

Also, Customers who purchase for Toys for Tots will receive a sample of our Fancy Holiday Pecans, with recipe included. We have a wide selection of gifts, stocking stuffers packaging, decorations and serving pieces for the holidays all in one place.”

Fancy Goods Variety is open from 9 a.m. until 6 p.m., Monday through Friday and from 9 a.m. until 4 p.m. on Saturday.

Fancy Goods Variety is located at 2512 Rocky Ridge Road, #102 in Vestavia Hills, 978-1415.

978-1451

www.fancygoodsvariety.com

2512 Rocky Ridge Road, Suite 102, Vestavia Hills

Handy holiday app

50 • Thursday, November 14, 2013

Easing the Transition

SCHOOLS

OVER THE MOUNTAIN Journal

Turning Points Program Helps Disabled Students Work and Learn

By Taylor Burgess Journal intern

F

or Skip Taylor, a job coach in the Turning Points transition program, finding daily motivation is far from difficult.

“Each morning, it takes me about two seconds to get over myself,” Taylor said. “I work with people who I’ve never heard complain, and never will.”

The people with whom Taylor works are eight students with disabilities—four from Mountain Brook City Schools and four from Homewood City Schools—who have completed high school and received graduation certificates but can remain in the school system until they are 21 years old.

However, as the students can no longer attend classes at the high schools, Turning Points works to ease their transition into the workforce or higher education.

While in the program, students spend much of their time at Samford University, where they attend classes to learn money management and other practical skills as well as work at jobs under the supervision of Taylor and other Turning Points staff members.

Taylor, who grew up in Homewood on Saulter Road, adjacent to the Samford campus, said he sees Samford as the ideal location for the program.

“Students on campus have been very open and welcoming to us,” Taylor said. “When students notice us and engage and embrace us, there’s synergy created.”

Three days a week, Turning Points students gather in the morning at Samford’s Orlean Bullard Beeson School of Education.

“We started at two days a week, but we’re trying to get to five,” Taylor said. “Samford is extremely committed to what we’re doing.”

The students meet briefly in the classroom before going to their jobs.

Before leaving the classroom, the students are joined by Wendy Betsch, the program’s transition coordinator, who usually enters the room to enthusiastic greetings from students.

“She’s like a rock star to these kids when she walks in,” Taylor said.

From the education building, the students walk to two on-campus job sites, one in the cafeteria and the other in the university bookstore.

“The challenge is that even though they’ve all graduated, they’re at different skill levels. How do you meet all the needs?” Betsch said. “We match students’ skill sets with different job sites so they can do work that will best benefit them.”

In the past, Turning Points students have also worked in the university mailroom and stadium field house, Betsch said.

The students are diligent in their work and know what is expected of them, staff members said.

Student Kathryn Henckell, on entering the bookstore, walks directly to the manager’s office to receive her assignment—placing barcode stickers on water bottles.

Betsch said she believes the students, like Henckell, should be responsible.

“We want them to look at it as a real job,” she said. “They should come in, find the manager and check in, like they would anywhere else.”

Betsch also stresses the importance of job sites with management that supports Turning Points and is willing to work with the students at their skill levels.

In the cafeteria, students work other jobs.

Betts Colquitt wipes dust from windowsills, while Darryl Stephens sweeps the floor of food and trash from the cafeteria’s most recent meal.

Colquitt has held other food service jobs outside of the program and so is already familiar with many of her cafeteria duties.

Betsch said she believes jobs like these are crucial for the students’ transition process because they use skills that help them develop.

“When they sweep or clean the windowsills, they’re focused and can pay attention to detail,” she said. “Also, repetitive teaching is good for students with disabilities.”

Taylor, supervising the cafeteria students, does repetitive work of his own, filling out detailed progress reports that carefully track each student’s

From left: Mitchell Meisler, Darryl Stephens, Skip Taylor, Tonya Sauder, Betts Colquitt, Kathryn Hinkle, Wendy Betsch, Antonio Kelly, Markeisha Johnson and Mandy Hilsmeir with the Turning Points program stand outside the education building at Samford University. Journal photo by Keysha Drexel

morning progress at his or her work site. However, he works with as much verve as the students around him while explaining how he discovered his passion for the program.

“I’ve been working with special ability kids for over 10 years. I had been looking for a career change and ended up working with UCP (United Cerebral Palsy),” he said..

Then he got a call this summer asking him to join Turning Points.

“I thought, ‘This is the coolest thing I’ve ever heard of,’” he said.

Taylor said he had never seen an equivalent program in other school systems, much less one also working in partnership with a university.

Betsch said she, too, thinks the program is unique and regrets that other school systems can’t offer support to disabled students who have graduated.

“How do they assimilate into a family situation when they graduate? Without skills and assistance, many of these students will just end up back at home,” Betsch said.

To prevent this, students not only work campus jobs but in the afternoon also meet with speech therapists, train in other social skills, such as appropriate work dress, and exercise.

To further aid the students’ transition, Betsch and Taylor said they hope to see Turning Points expand.

“For the future, maybe, we’d like to give the students a dorm room to live in to prepare them for living in real life,” Betsch said. “The problem

is that when students age out of the school system, they have nothing to support them anymore, and it’s rare for employers to grab them.”

Betsch said she hopes that continuing to train students in necessary skills through expanding programs will give students a better chance.

Taylor said he remains confident that these skills are benefiting Turning Points students in tangible ways.

“Some businessmen bring clients into California Pizza Kitchen, where Betts [Colquitt] works, just for her alone,” he said.

Taylor said programs for disabled students have come a long way since he was a student himself.

“When I was a junior in high school, a girl who was a quadriplegic, sat in the front of my class,” he said. “Nobody helped her, and I wish someone had. Now, there are peer helpers for students in Mountain Brook and Homewood schools.”

While sweeping, Stephens finds a bright red toothpick. He stops working for a moment and brings it to Taylor, who takes the find with a smile and places it on the table next to the progress reports.

“People who were on the outside before because of their disabilities feel good because they have a job,” Taylor said. “With our students, there is no black or white, or cool or uncool—they never complain, and they always show up.”

For more information about Turning Points, contact Wendy Betsch at betschw@mtnbrook.k12. al.us. ❖

School Notes will stay together throughout the school year.

“We want our students to be more supported with the challenges they are facing in middle school, we want our faculty to be more connected to our students to increase our Catholic community, we want to give our students more connections and meaningful relationships with their classmates and we want our middle school to be more meaningful and effective for our students,” Principal Nathan Wright said.

Saint Francis Xavier School has a new advisory board. From left: Sarah Hart (guidance counselor), Braxton Buckner, Mateo Rodriguez, Gabriela Dailey, Sydney Swindall, Anna Arnold and Alex Downs. Photo special to the Journal

St. Francis Xavier Has New Advisory Board Saint Francis Xavier School has created a new advisory board to help middle school students Created with the help of teachers, administrators, students and parents, the advisory groups highlight social, emotional, academic and ethical

development for adolescents.

During the advisory time, students build social skills.

At orientation, the school’s counselor presented a slide show about the program, and students learned who their peer group leaders would be for the school year.

Advisory groups will not change throughout the year. Instead, groups

Hadder Joins Staff at Spain Park High School Melissa Hadder recently joined the administrative team of Spain Park High School in Hoover.

Hadder is assisting the school in curriculum and instruction, including school improvement plans, teacher evaluations and anything related to the school’s academic programs.

Before coming to Spain Park High, Hadder was the assistant principal at Calera High School in the Shelby County school system. Now in her

21st year in education, Hadder has also been a band teacher and school counselor.

“The people at Spain Park High School make it unique.

Everyone I have met-teachers, students, other administrators and parents-is focused on helping students achieve their Melissa Hadder full potential.

Conversations are encouraging and focused on learning. Each person is proud to be associated with this school,” Hadder said.

Hadder said the school’s outstanding team of professionals has created a positive learning environment for everyone.

“During my first week at Spain Park High School, one of the teachers remarked, ‘A bad day at Spain Park is better than a good day somewhere

else.’ I feel incredibly blessed to be a part of the administrative team at Spain Park High School. It is the highlight of my career,” she said.

Hadder has a bachelor’s degree from Troy State University, a master’s degree in school counseling from the University of West Alabama and a master’s certificate and educational specialist degree in educational leadership from the University of Montevallo.

She is married to John Hadder and has one daughter, Hope.

Hall-Kent Students Get Moving at Fun Run Event Students, teachers and parents from Hall-Kent Elementary School recently got outside to enjoy a brisk fall morning together.

The school held its annual Fun Run on Oct. 19.

Participants donned their lime green Fun Run shirts and hit the street early for the event. The shirts weren’t just for the event’s two-legged participants. One Hall-Kent family brought along their pet dog, who was also wearing a Fun Run shirt.

Thursday, November 14, 2013 • 51

SCHOOLS

OVER THE MOUNTAIN Journal

eighth-grader, Nick Buttrey portrayed Shang, Mulan’s romantic interest.

The roles of the ancestors were played by eighth-graders Bailey Glasgow, Anna Sherman and Reed McLean and seventh-graders Olivia Fant, Cassie Ambrose and Tessa Elward. The role of Shan-Hu was played by eighth-grader Cooper Gray.

Other seventh-graders featured in the play were Jackson Shield, Madelyn Vaughn, Alecia Hobdy, James Ciamarra, Emma Akerman and C.J. Romano.

Also in the play were sixth-graders Chandler Norman, Jaxon Bast, Justin Boackle, Avery Martin, Alyce Voisin, Julia Wolter and Kirsten Hassinger.

Fifth-grade actors in the show included Nick Stamps, Madison Como, Sarah Buttrey, Raquel Tamberello, Olivia Beland and Ella Donahue.

Second-grader Eden Donahue played the role of the cricket, and fourthgrader Zane Boackle played one of the Hun henchmen.

Michael R. Bridges directed the show.

Alabama First Lady Dianne Bentley, center, spoke to students in Katie Barwinczak’s class at Deer Valley Elementary. Photo special to the Journal

First Lady Visits Deer Valley Elementary School To celebrate U.S. Constitution Week in September, fourth-graders at Deer Valley Elementary School got a visit from Alabama First Lady Dianne Bentley.

Bentley spoke to the students at the school’s annual Constitution Week celebration on Sept. 12.

An advocate of literacy and education, Bentley read to the students and then answered their questions.

The students asked her about her favorite hobby,

quilting, and which team she pulls for in football. The First Lady told the students that she supports all the teams in the state but spent many years in Tuscaloosa.

She talked to the students about the state’s symbols, including the state flower, butterfly and fish.

She also shared photos of the Governor’s Mansion, including its pool, which is shaped like the state of Alabama.

Homewood Teacher Named Finalist for Award A Homewood Middle School teacher is a finalist for the National Outstanding New Career and Technical Teacher Award.

Briana Morton, a family and consumer science teacher at Homewood Middle, is one of five finalists selected to compete for the 2014 title given by the Association for Career and Technical Education.

Inspired to help students growing up in rural areas like the community she came from, Morton left a successful career in apparel merchandising to become a teacher.

To ensure her students are ready for college and careers, she has made it her mission to incorporate more technology into local classrooms. She has acquired more than $15,000 in classroom grants towards her mission.

Morton is the Region II ACTE Outstanding New Career and Technical Teacher.

ACTE’s Region II area includes Alabama, the Bahamas, Florida, Georgia, Kentucky, North Carolina, Puerto Rico, South Carolina, Tennessee and Briana Morton Virginia.

The national winner will be announced during ACTE’s VISION 2013 conference in Las Vegas on Dec. 4.

Seniors Honored at SMCS Senior football players, cheerleaders and band members were recently honored at Shades Mountain Christian School in Hoover.

The students were recognized in a

Vestavia West Hosts Fair Hundreds of kids and parents flocked to the West County Fair at Vestavia Hills Elementary West as the school celebrated with its fall carnival on Oct. 24.

In the parking lot, visitors could try their luck in the Strong Man Contest, Homerun Derby and Angry Birds

Launch or visit the carnival bake sale.

Inside, those who attended could visit the general store and enter a raffle to win giveaways, including an autographed football from the Philadelphia Eagles’ DeMeco Ryans.

In the lunchroom, Hungry Howie’s pizza and Moe’s Original Barbecue sandwiches were served, and Bruster’s Italian Ice was a popular choice for dessert.

Throughout the school, volunteers welcomed carnival-goers with the chance to win candy and prizes for participating in the ring toss, hole-inone golf, football toss and many other traditional games. Balloon animals were in high demand, and younger visitors enjoyed the moon bounce.

The event raised more than $20,000, which will be used for instructional materials and equipment.

Mary Charles’ Doll House New, Collectible Antique Dolls 2820 Petticoat Lane Mtn. Brook Village 870-5544 Open Thur. - Sat. 10am - 4:30pm

Mike A. Keller, DDS, PC Pediatric / Adolescent Dentistry Dr. Mike Keller, friends & staff are happy to recognize October members the NO SUGAR BUG CLUB To: ofMary Charles Robbins

Senior cheerleaders Nellie Revel, left, and Anna Raco received crowns at Shades Mountain Christian School’s senior night for their six years of dedication to cheering.

Photo special to the Journal

pre-game ceremony on Nov. 1 at the last home football game of the 2013 season.

Anna Raco and Nellie Revel were recognized for having been cheerleaders since they were in the seventh grade.

Senior football players honored were Philip Badewa, Rowan Henderson, Daniel Lindsey, Mikey Rogers and Richard Ramsey.

The senior members of the SMCS Band recognized at the ceremony included Karissa Annis, Blake Calhoun, Mavaney Christianson, Finley Cutts and Catherine Gibbons.

OLV Stages ‘Mulan Jr.’ Our Lady of the Valley School’s drama department recently presented “Mulan Jr.” at the OLV Family Life Center.

The cast featured nearly 100 performers from first through eighth grades. Mulan was played by Victoria Peters, an eighth-grader. Another

Emory Alexander Harper Alexander Carter Alexander Emilie Alonso Daniel Alonso Stella Alpaugh Joshua Anthony Alexandria Anthony Jarrett Anthony Sadie Arnold Ethan Asmus Blake Asmus Jorge Avelar Marianna Averyt Virginia Averyt Kathryn Bailey Jon Davis Bailey Jacob Baker Erinn Baker Albert Barkmann Eva Barnhart Elizabeth Barrineau Maggie Bearden Blaine Bearden Hayden Bell Hunter Bell Evelyn Berry Edward Berry Grace Bertram Elias Bertram Lauren Blankenship Elizabeth Blankenship Hope Blankenship Kalie Blalock Stephen Bogart Tony Bonar Frazer Branyon Katherine Bibb Branyon Jasper Bridges Reagan Bridges Makayla Broadhead McKenzie Broadhead Colton Broadhead Anna Cathryn Brown Rebecca Brown Rachel Brown Jared Bryant Jackson Bryant Reid Catherine Bunn Crenshaw Bunn Davis Bunn Blaine Burrell Raygen Busby Keenan Carter Zmaire Cates Achyut Chakilam Harini Chakilam

Chloe Chapman Kyle Chapman Leelyn Conn Destiny Conn Chip Cowin Miller Cox McKinnon Cox Harper Craft Marley Craft Arden Craft Jacob Crowe Brandon Crowe Isabel Cruz Will Cvacho Francie Cvacho Anna Grace Dasher Ben Dasher Isaiah Davis Andrew Davis Airrisha Dawson Sean Day Asia Day Thomas DeLawrence Madison Denham Meg Dobbins Will Dobbins Ben Dorsey Louise Doss Wirth Doss Hannah Doss Evans Dudley Graham Duncan Caroline Early Riley Edmiston Oniyah Edmonds Omar Edmonds Odaejah Edmonds Mollie Edwards Rory Edwards Avery Edwards Lauren Edwards Brock Eisele Gage Elam Anna Elliott Evie Elliott Ethan Estes Cameron Estes Kirsten Estes Crawford Eubanks Ethan Evans EJ Evans Pheobe Evans Austin Evans Rex Everette Stutts Everette Ransom Everette J Wesley Everette Mary Carlon Feagin

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From: Mountain ph., Justin205-823-9646 Studdard Stephen Owens Journal, Gracie Lee Over The Henry Tabb Dylan Owings Victoria Lee 205-824-1246, fax Charlie Tabb Karna Palaniappan Kurstyn lee Date: Lee May 2010 William Tabb Aaryn Palaniappan Bryonna Cole Tangye Max Paris Sadie Levans Elijah Thompson Elijah Parrish Tzophiyah Levans Judah Thompson Tripp Patterson Zachary Levans This is your AD PROOF from the OVER THE MO Zion Thompson Loa Patterson Langston Lily June 3, 2010 issue.

Please fax approval or Cate Thoss Kyle Paul Carson Lily Owen Tidwell Emily Pena Stephen Lily Addison Tierney Sophia Pena Rosalind Litsey Breese Tierney Kodee Phillips Timothy Little Garrett Tims Trae Phillips Erin Long George Tims Aidan Pope Owen Long Madison Torres Julia Pryor Luis Lopez Jackson Treadwell Leila Radney Daniel Lopez Luke Tulloch Billy Radney CJ Lorino Ryan Tulloch Charlotte Robbins Sloan Lowery Ann from Vandevelde Sophie Robbins Steele Lowery If we have not heard you by 5 pm of the Frida Vandevelde Crawford Robbins your Liz Champ Lyons ad will run as is. We print the pap Jackson Waldrop Wyatt Roberts Lawson Lyons Graham Waldrop Olivia Roberts LJ Mabry Miles Waldrop Richard Robles Kate Martin Major Walker Jason Robles Maury Martinez Thomas Walker Karyme Robles Brandon Martinez Jacob Walker Armando Robles Grady McClain Elle Warren Brooks Roney Madison McClintock Kayla Watkins Thomas Roney Melissa McClintock Peggy Weaver Adam Rudulph Alexia McCray Trenton Webber Leigh Russell Robin McDaniel Wills Webster Maggie Russell Jada McGee Emmalyn Wehrenberg Janiah Rutledge Jayla McGowan Ash Wehrenberg Kimberly Sarabia Regan McKenna Kyler Wehrenberg Jasmine Sarabia Madison McKenna Huston West Gavin Savage Landers McKie Rollins Wilkerson Lexi Savage Nicole McKie Garner Wilkerson Tyler Savage Colin McMicken Reece Willetts Ethan Sharble Hamp McMurray Lauren Willetts Olivia Sharble Jack McMurray Royce Williams Jeffrey Shine Collins McMurray Naja Williams Matthew Simon John Mears LilKarl Wilson Emma Simon James Mears Kamaure Wilson Callie Simon Meagan Millsap Callie Wilson Ashton Skalnik Makenzie Millsap Shepard Wingo Emma Slay Daniel Milton Hannah Grace Wolfe Kenley Smith Bennett Milton Hope Wolnski Ashley Smith Bella Mitchell Emily Wolnski Jayla Smith Jackson Mitchell Abigail Wolnski Chloe Kay Speer Quinton Moore Sarah Wolnski Mary Rayburn Morris Baylor Speer Ellie Wolter Kaiden Speer Samuel Morris Madison Woodruff Kamron Stanford Marianna Murray Jackson Woodruff Kaleb Stanford Olivia Nelson Stormy Yates Alex Stanley Braden Odom Shadow Yates Samuel Stewart Kacee Owens Hudson Youngblood Hannah Straughn Reid Owens John Michael Straughn Zachary Owens Emily Straughn Beth Owens

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Brookwood Dental Building • 2045 Medical Center Drive • Birmingham, Alabama • 870-7110

52 • Thursday, November 14, 2013

Stepping Back in Time

SCHOOLS

OVER THE MOUNTAIN Journal

Cherokee Bend Students Learn About Past at Colonial Fair Students at Cherokee Bend Elementary School recently took a step back in time to see what life was like for early American settlers.

The school’s fifth-grade classes participated in the fourth annual Colonial Fair on Oct. 18.

The Colonial Fair is held each year as a culmination of the students’ lessons on the colonization of the Americas after the Age of Exploration.

Before the Colonial Fair, students learned what life was like 300 years ago and studied the government, trade and geography of the colonies.

The students had to create a colonial profile for themselves and were then split into different colonies.

At the Colonial Fair, each colony went to a different station to learn how the colonists lived.

The students learned how to make candles and lanterns and munched on some freshly roasted corn.

They also learned about first aid and medicine during colonial times at the medical/apothocary station and what the typical day for a colonist their age might have been like.

The students also learned the dances that were popular with colonial children.

The students were able to bring home the items they made at each station at the Colonial Fair. ❖ -- Catherine Bodnar

From left: Mary Winston Hendry, Jane Ryland Elliott, Mary Carlisle Jones, Riley Brown and Ella Katherine Parker. Photos special to the Journal

The fifth-grade teachers at Cherokee Bend Elementary School have organized the Colonial Fair at the school for four years as a culminating event for their students’ studies on the colonization of America. They are, from left: Lyndsi Kirk, Hannah Peters, Brooke Gossett and Amanda Milazzo.

From left: Dean Hull, Braxton Wetzler and Tripp Davies came to school dressed in the kind of clothes that children in colonial times might have worn during Cherokee Bend Elementary School’s Colonial Fair.

School Notes Inverness Class Wins Scarecrow Contest A sure sign that fall has arrived in the Over the Mountain area is the appearance of scarecrows outside of Inverness Elementary School.

Each year, students at the school create scarecrows that are displayed on the hill in front of the school and then

moved to the Birmingham Zoo for the annual Boo at the Zoo celebration.

Each kindergarten through thirdgrade class comes up with a theme for its scarecrow. With the parents’ help and creativity, many different ideas take shape.

Local businesses sponsor a class scarecrow, and the money raised is used to buy items not included in the

school’s regular budget.

Jamie Cox’s first-grade class won the contest this year. The class scarecrow was sponsored by the Brian Campbell Allstate Agency. The theme of the winning scarecrow was “Cox’s Colorful Crayons” and was represented by a pumpkin-headed scarecrow with hay hair popping out of a large crayontype box with the different crayons

Jamie Cox’s class at Inverness Elementary won a scarecrow-making contest as part of the Birmingham Zoo’s annual Boo at the Zoo celebration.

Photo special to the Journal

representing students in the class.

The school’s scarecrows were moved to the zoo on Oct. 15. The school’s kindergarten class took a field trip at the end of October to see the scarecrows on display at the zoo.

Inverness Elementary School is located in North Shelby and is a part of the Shelby County School system.

Crossroads Art Students Celebrate Halloween Students at Crossroads School in Hoover got creative as they celebrated Halloween.

The art students at the school developed a one-of-a-kind seasonal display in the school’s cafeteria. The

collaborative effort brought together several art classes and took weeks to construct.

Each class created a portion of the display, which included soft sculpture ghosts, wire figures, beaded chandeliers, full-scale paper mache trees and pumpkins and a variety of small items to complement the Halloween theme.

“This labor-intensive endeavor gave students opportunity to assist and support one another and share in the completion and installation of the display,” said Sharon Thompson, the school’s art teacher.

The Halloween artwork was on display in the Crossroads cafeteria through the end of October.

Paul Curtis’ novel about the Civil Rights Movement.

Nelms set her sights on being cast in the play this summer after learning about the 50th anniversary of the Civil Rights Movement and taking part in the Birmingham Children’s Theatre’s Summer Academy.

Attending the summer academy was a departure for Nelms, who usually spends her summers swimming and going to basketball camp.

“I really like acting and I’d rather be on stage,” she said.

Nelms has also performed at workshops at the Red Mountain Theatre, in “Miss Nelson Is Missing” at the Children’s Dance Foundation and in her school’s production of “Dear Santa.”

The young actress will hit the stage again in December as Lucy in “Bluegrass Christmas Carol.”

Green Valley Celebrates 50 Years An elementary school in Hoover recently celebrated a milestone anniversary.

Green Valley Elementary School celebrated its 50th year in the community on Oct. 12 with an anniversary homecoming celebration.

Alumni, current students, dignitaries, friends, teachers and staff members gathered at the school on Old Columbiana Road to recognize its history and celebrate with a fall festival.

Green Valley Elementary opened in 1963 as a replacement for the old Patton Chapel School.

Green Valley Elementary School in Hoover celebrated its 50th anniversary last month. From left: Lenten Crittenden, Principal Jeff Singer, Josh Singer and Harper Crittenden.

Zoe Nelms a fifth-grader at Edgewood Elementary in the Birmingham Children’s Theatre’s production of “The Watsons Go to Birmingham, 1963.”

hoover

MEET &

GREET

TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 19

5:00 p.m. - 7:00 p.m.

Aldridge Gardens

3530 Lorna Road • Hoover, Al 35216

Join the Tobacco Free Taskforce of Jefferson County for an evening with fellow smokefree Hoover supporters. This meet and greet style event will provide an opportunity to network and meet other Hoover residents and businesses that support a smokefree Hoover.

Photo special to the Journal

Edgewood Student Takes to the Stage

Come hear what it means to be smokefree, why it is so important for our community, and how you can become more involved! For more information on this event, contact Ashley Lyerly at alyerly@breathehealthy.org.

Photo special to the Journal

§

A fifth-grader at Edgewood Elementary School in Homewood is learning that she loves to tread the boards as she performs in the Birmingham Children’s Theatre’s production of “The Watsons Go to Birmingham, 1963,” which premiered on Oct. 6.

Zoe Nelms is a member of the cast of the play, which is based on Christopher

Thursday, November 14, 2013 • 53

SCHOOLS

OVER THE MOUNTAIN Journal

Aldridge Gardens

KNOW

WHAT TO DO IN CASE OF

S USPECTED

C ONCUSSION

A concussion is an injury caused by a blow to the head in which the brain moves rapidly and may collide with the inside of the skull.

Even a minor fall or collision may be of concern, so be alert to symptoms such as headaches, unsteadiness, confusion or other types of abnormal behavior.

Stay ahead of the curve.

Any athlete with a suspected concussion: Should be IMMEDIATELY REMOVED FROM PLAY/ACTIVITY Should be urgently assessed medically Should not be left alone Should not drive a motor vehicle

CONCUSSION CLINIC 205.934.1041 www.Childrens AL.org/concussion IN CASE OF MEDICAL EMERGENCY, CALL 911 OR GO DIRECTLY TO YOUR LOCAL ER

54 • Thursday, November 14, 2013

Rain on Spain

sports

OVER THE MOUNTAIN Journal

Spain Park’s Dalton Brown looks for running room as an Enterprise defender closes in.

More photos at otmj.com

Jags Fall in Overtime Thriller

Journal photo by Marvin Gentry

By Lee Davis

Journal Sports Writer

The 2013 season was a memorable one for Spain Park football.

Most of the memories will be good ones. At least one of them will be not so good.

On the positive side, the Jaguars opened with a head-turning 8-0 record and won the Class 6A Region 4 title.

On the downside, Spain Park lost a true heartbreaker in the first round of the playoffs.

Falling behind Enterprise 27-7 after three quarters, the Jaguars rallied to a 20-point fourth quarter to tie the game in regulation. A 27-yard field goal by the Wildcats’ Jonathan Stinnett gave the visitors a 30-27 verdict and ended Spain Park’s season.

“It breaks your heart,” said Spain Park coach Shawn Raney, who saw his first Jaguar team end its season with an 8-3 mark. “We made too many mistakes. You can’t afford to do that in the playoffs against good teams.”

Spain Park lost despite a courageous performance by quarterback Mason Duke, who completed 17 of 33 passes for 300 yards and four touchdowns. Enterprise’s big advantage was too much to overcome.

“That’s the story of our season,” Raney said.

“We start slow but keep fighting. I’m very proud of that fact.”

The story of Spain Park’s final game began when Enterprise running back Tristian Quiles scored on a four-yard run to give the Wildcats a

Playoffs, From back cover

Vestavia rebounded with a season-closing win over Florence, but the echoes of the loss to the Spartans still reverberated.

Any doubts about the Rebels’ ability to make a strong run for a state championship ended on a cold night at Thompson Reynolds Stadium, as Vestavia took charge early and routed the Red Raiders 38-14.

The hosts set the tone early, when Rebel cornerback Brooks Sexton intercepted a Decatur pass. Five plays later, Jordan Johnson scored on a 16-yard run, and Vestavia led 7-0 with 8:11 remaining in the opening period.

A few minutes later, Wesley Hatchett added a 26-yard field goal, and the Rebels boosted their lead to 10-0 as the quarter ended.

7-0 lead with 3:58 remaining in the first period.

Duke directed the Jaguars to their first touchdown early in the second period. His 49-yard scoring strike to Dalton Brown and Thomas Taylor’s conversion tied the game at 7-7 with 9:01 left in the first half.

The tie didn’t last long. Shaquille Soloman returned the ensuing kickoff 96 yards for a touchdown, and Enterprise was back in front 14-7.

Stinnett added a 45-yard field goal, and the Wildcats were in command 17-7 at the half.

A rout appeared to be in the offing when Enterprise added two scores in the third period.

The first score was a 27-yard field goal by Stinnett. The second was a 47-yard touchdown run by Hezekiah Woods, giving the Wildcats a 27-7 bulge at the end of the third quarter.

When all seemed lost, Spain Park came to life.

Duke led the Jags on a four-play 82-yard drive to get back into the game. The quarterback’s 48-yard bomb to Brown cut the score to 27-13.

The extra point attempt sailed foul.

The momentum turned strongly in Spain Park’s direction on the next series. Only 30 seconds after the Jaguar touchdown, Spain Park linebacker Perry Young forced an Enterprise

Vestavia may have effectively sealed the verdict in the final minute of the first half. Sexton intercepted another pass and returned it 41 yards for a touchdown. Hatchett’s kick raised the margin to 17-0.

The Rebel onslaught continued in the third quarter. Johnson’s second touchdown run, this time from one yard out, increased Vestavia’s lead 24-0 with 8:11 left in the period.

Decatur battled back for a touchdown, but the Rebels matched it within three minutes.

Quarterback Landon Crowder’s five-yard run put Vestavia ahead 31-7.

Carter Jacobs ended Vestavia’s scoring with a one-yard touchdown dive with 6:57 remaining in the game.

The real highlight of the night was the play of the Rebel defense. Decatur managed only five first downs and 142 yards of total offense and suffered three turnovers.

Vestavia hosts Bessemer City in the Class 6A playoffs’ second round.

Top-ranked Hoover rolled to an easy 41-7 rout of Huntsville. Bradrick Shaw paced the Buccaneer running attack with 124 yards on 16 carries. Hoover’s defense allowed the visitors into Buc territory only twice in the game.

The Bucs, now 11-0 for the season, will host Shades Valley in the next round of the playoffs.

Florence ended Mountain Brook’s season with a 33-21 upset. Interceptions early in the game and later were costly for the Spartans, who battled back from an early 13-0 deficit.

The loss snapped a seven-game winning streak for Mountain Brook, which finished the year 7-4.

In the Class 5A playoffs, Homewood overwhelmed Russell County 42-7. Walter Rutledge rushed for 100 yards on 17 carries and scored two touchdowns. Quarterback Carson Griffis passed

Homewood’s Dewayne Orso attempts to block a pass in the Patriots’ first round win over Russell County Friday night. Journal photos by Marvin Gentry

Homewood’s Lawton Dorough picks up tough yardage in the win over Russell County.

fumble, and the Jags had the ball at the Wildcat nine-yard line.

Duke promptly passed 12 yards to Phillip Brown for a touchdown, and Enterprise’s fat margin slipped to 27-20.

With two minutes left in the game, Spain Park faced a do-or-die situation: The Jaguars had to drive 73 yards for a touchdown to earn a trip to overtime.

Duke and his teammates delivered. The quarterback connected on a long toss to Brown. Then he connected with Wade Streeter, who moved deep into Wildcat territory. The touchdown came on Duke’s six-yard strike to Derek Williams.

Taylor’s conversion tied the game at 27-27, sending it into overtime.

Spain Park got the ball first. On the first two plays, Street ran for short gains. On third down, Duke was sacked for a loss. On fourth down, Taylor narrowly missed a field goal attempt from 33 yards out.

Enterprise took advantage of the situation, opting to go for the winning field goal on first down. “If there had been a bad snap or something like that, we could have fallen on the ball and still had three more downs,” Wildcat coach David Faulkner later said.

Unfortunately for Spain Park, Enterprise didn’t need any more downs. Stinnett’s 27-yard field goal was perfect, and the Jaguars’ season was finished.

Otis Harris sparked the Jaguar running game with 122 yards on 19 carries. The Spain Park defensive unit was burned early in the game but stood tall in the final quarter, giving up only one first down in the period.

“You learn from this and go on,” Raney said.

“This one will be hard to forget.”

It will be, but Raney’s first year at Spain Park will offer plenty of good memories, too.

for 69 yards.

The Patriots, now 9-2 for the year, host Saraland in the playoffs’ second round.

Briarwood rolled to an easy 32-15 win over Eufaula. Quarterback Walker Lott completed 14 of 30 passes for 90 yards and rushed for 113 yards on 20 carries. Victor Gerald aided the cause with 112 yards on 22 carries.

The Lions, now 9-2 for the year, visit Jackson in round two of the Class 5A playoffs.

Homewood’s Maurice Mayo breaks up a pass intended for a Russell County receiver.

Thursday, November 14, 2013 • 55

sports

OVER THE MOUNTAIN Journal

Cross Country, From back cover

BIET Riders Qualify for Regional Competition The Birmingham Interscholastic Equestrian Team’s high school and middle school teams have both qualified for regional competition after a weekend of competition at Clairmont Show Stables in Sterrett Nov. 2 and 3.

Other participants in the Southern Equestrian Challenge IEA Zone 4 Region 1 competition were Vintage Creek Farm of Sterrett, Saint James Equestrian Team of Montgomery and Four Seasons Farm of Athens, Ga. In the Nov. 2 event, the BIET team won first place in the high school competition and second place in the middle school competition.

Gorman, From back cover

Spartans boys’ basketball team that won the state 6A title last winter.

“Everyone was so supportive,” she said. “All my teachers were great, and the entire school was excited about volleyball and what we had accomplished.”

As the only upperclassman on the Mountain Brook roster, Gorman saw her team from a unique perspective as it developed over the course of the season.

“One reason we were underestimated is because on paper we were a young team with a lot of sophomores and freshmen,” she said. “But they had been playing volleyball for a long time and had a lot of on-court maturity.

They also had a high skill level. It all added up.”

Gorman said being the only senior on the team was more of a privilege than a burden.

“I thought it would be a lot harder than it turned out to be,” she said. “The juniors and the other girls all played important leadership roles. I was just one of many, so there really wasn’t too much pressure on me to be a leader.”

Mountain Brook coach Haven O’Quinn and her staff also deserve a lot of credit, Gorman said.

“The coaches were crucial to our success,” she said. “They encouraged us to have fun every time we stepped on the court, and that mindset helped us play more loosely and aggressively.”

The season was satisfying for Gorman on a personal level as well.

Having played setter for three years, she moved to hitter for 2013. Gorman

Both the BIET high school and middle school teams won second place in the Nov. 3 event.

BIET has completed its regular season and is preparing for regional competition at the Georgia International Horse Park in March.

Team members are Arden McCullough, sixth grade, Westminster School at Oak Mountain; Sophia Giattina, 11th grade, Indian Springs School; Sadie Tauxe, eighth grade, Mountain Brook Junior High School; Cameron Shepherd, Ashlea Robinson, Madelyn Foster and Zoe Kuykendall, eighth grade, Simmons Middle School; Shelley Treleaven, had set the all-time career setter record for Mountain Brook, but Sara Chandler Mitchell didn’t miss a beat as the new starter in the position.

“To be a good setter, you have to be selfless and understand the strategy of the game,” Gorman said. “Your job is to distribute the ball to the right people and be the workhorse of the team. Sara personified that for us this season.”

Although Gorman excelled in volleyball, the sport wasn’t her entire life.

She is ranked second academically in Mountain Brook’s senior class and is a National Merit Finalist.

Gorman doesn’t plan to play volleyball in college and lists Notre Dame, the University of Virginia, Yale and Vanderbilt among her likely choices of schools.

“I know everyone says this, but the key to doing well in school and playing sports is smart time management,” she said. “I have to admit I’ve hit some bumps and didn’t always follow my own advice. It’s so tempting to just sit and chat during free time, so you have to discipline yourself to buckle down and do the work when the opportunity comes.”

10th grade, Stonecreek Montessori Academy; Catherine Burley, eighth grade, Chelsea Middle School; Amelia Sorrels and Bethany Sorrels, 10th grade, Pell City High School; Maddie Waddell, eighth grade, Briarwood Christian School; Ryelee Jordan, 12th grade, Thompson High School; Rebekah Sims, 12th grade, Evangel Christian School; Mattie Harden, ninth grade, Oak Mountain High School; Isabel Pickett, 11th grade, Spain Park High School; and Bella Bice, sixth grade, Red Mountain Community School.

Clair Allison is the team’s head coach.

Gorman began playing volleyball in fourth grade when she signed up for a church league team. “Most kids start looking for a sport when they are that age,” she said. “My mom had played volleyball when she was young and enjoyed it, and maybe I just gravitated toward it. My dad enjoyed volleyball, too, so I sort of followed them.”

By the time she reached her senior year of high school, Gorman had become one of Alabama’s most highlyregarded players. She earned All-State honors as a junior and played in the North-South All-Star game last summer.

While championship trophies and individual recognition may be a lot of fun, Gorman said volleyball’s greatest rewards weren’t tangible.

“What playing volleyball really did was teach me about the importance of perseverance,” she said. “We had some great victories when I was playing but also some terrible losses. The most important thing is that when you hit some rough patches, you pick yourself up and keep going.”

Claire Gorman and Mountain Brook picked themselves up all the way to the Elite Eight.

ever put out there,” said Lady Spartan coach Greg Echols. “We placed a junior, a sophomore, a freshman and two seventh-graders in our top five.

Everybody was part of something special, and I told the girls before the race just to have fun.”

Junior Jessica Molloy was Mountain Brook’s top finisher, taking second to Hewitt-Trussville’s Veronica Lyle.

Nicole Payne of Oak Mountain took third in the event, while Sydney Steely of Hoover finished fourth.

Madeline Held of Spain Park was sixth. Frances Patrick of Mountain Brook and Catherine Bunch of Vestavia Hills finished eighth and ninth, respectively. The Lady Spartan duo of Parker Cobbs and Anna Littleton finished 12th and 13th, respectively.

In Class 6A boys’ competition, Mac Macoy of Vestavia successfully defended his individual title, completing the course in 15:44.50.

The Rebels finished second in team competition, losing to pre-meet favorite Auburn. The Tigers totaled 47 points while Vestavia trailed with 57.

Mountain Brook was fourth with 121 points, and Hoover followed in fifth with 143.

Macoy won the individual crown despite being hampered by an injury.

“Because I was hurt, I missed out on some training,” he said. “But on race day, the adrenalin kicked in. I couldn’t have asked for anything better.

Peyton Price of Vestavia was fourth in the boys’ competition. Cole Stidfole of Oak Mountain was 14th, and Davis Kelly of Mountain Brook was 15th.

Homewood sophomore Andy Smith was the star of the boys’ Class 5A competition, taking first place with a time of 16:14.60. Smith led the Patriots to the team championship, as Homewood totaled 33 points to easily outdistance runner-up Scottsboro.

John Carroll Catholic was fourth with 145 points.

“I knew we could do it, but I also knew that anything can happen,” said Homewood coach Lars Porter. “Smith got the job done, and it’s exciting for him to win the individual title as a sophomore.”

In the individual standings, John

Gardner of John Carroll was third.

Mike Rohdy and Fulton Williams of Homewood were sixth and seventh, respectively. Alex Ngei of Homewood was 10th, and Hunter Poole of Homewood was 15th.

In girls’ 5A competition, John Carroll turned in a strong thirdplace performance behind champion Scottsboro. The Lady Cavs totaled 76 points, as the Lady Wildcats took the competition with 59 points. Lawrence County was second with 68 points.

In Class 6A boys’ competition, Mac Macoy of Vestavia successfully defended his individual title, completing the course in 15:44.50.

Journal file photo by Bryan Bunch

Bella Restrepo led the John Carroll runners with a fifth-place finish. The sister combination of Lindsey Granier and Lauren Granier finished seventh and ninth in the run.

Becky Thelman of Briarwood was fourth.

In boys’ Class 1A-2A competition, Dylan Pausic of Shades Mountain Christian was second in the individual run, completing the course in 16:42.40. In team competition, Westminster-Oak Mountain finished fifth with 138 points, as Montgomery Academy took the crown.

In girls’ Class 1A-2A competition, Westminster-Oak Mountain finished third with 55 points behind first-place Montgomery Academy and runner-up St. Bernard.

Maddie Hoagland of WestminsterOak Mountain was runner-up in the individual competition with a time of 19:31.80. Other Westminster-Oak Mountain runners placing were Sarah Kate Lipperd, 10th, and Camilla Lemons, 13th.

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OVER THE MOUNTAIN Journal

Thursday, november 14, 2013

Spartans Girls Take X-Country Title Again, Macoy Wins Boys’ Title, Pats Win 5A

Sports

Jaguars Fall in Overtime Thriller P. 54 BIET Riders Qualify for Regional Competition P. 55

Lee Davis

Net Gains The Mountain Brook girls’ cross country team won the schools 11th 6A state championship last Saturday.

Journal photos by Bryan Bunch

By Lee Davis Journal Sports Writer Some sports dynasties never seem to end.

The Mountain Brook girls’ cross country team is one of them.

The Lady Spartans easily won their 11th consecutive state Class 6A championship on a cool morning at Oakville’s Indian Mounds Park Saturday.

Mountain Brook totaled 44 points.

Hoover was a distant second with 95 points. Vestavia Hills was third with 118.

“This is the youngest team I have See cross country, page 55

Rebel running back Jordan Johnson picks up yardage in Vestavia’s first round win over Decatur.

Journal photo by Bryan Bunch

The Homewood boys’ cross country team totaled 33 points to easily outdistance runner-up Scottsboro in 5A.

Situation Normal Vestavia Rolls over Decatur; Bucs, Patriots, Lions Win

By Lee Davis

Journal Sports Writer

Although Vestavia Hills entered the Class 6A football playoffs with a region championship and an 8-2 record, there were some legitimate doubts about the

Rebels as they hosted Decatur last Friday.

Coach Buddy Anderson’s team had looked impressive most of the season, even in a 17-7 loss to archrival Hoover in a game that easily could have gone the other way.

In recent weeks, the Vestavia express had slowed just a bit, most notably on Oct. 25 when the Rebels were stunned 10-7 by a hungry Mountain Brook team.

Spartans’ Gorman Closes Career at Elite Eight

W

hen preseason prognosticators chose the top volleyball teams in Alabama for 2013, the Mountain Brook Lady Spartans didn’t get much respect.

“I don’t think we even made the ‘teams to watch’ list,” senior hitter Claire Gorman said, laughing. “We were pretty much underestimated from the very beginning.”

In the end, Mountain Brook had the last laugh.

Gorman and her teammates surprised just about everyone except themselves by winning their area and going all the way to the Elite Eight at the Birmingham Crossplex, the first time the Lady Spartans have ever reached Alabama’s greatest volleyball showcase.

Mountain Brook fell just shy of a state championship, but Gorman said she’d never forget the experience.

“On one hand, it was disappointing to come so close and not bring home a championship,” she said.

“But for us to make Mountain Brook history by reaching the Elite Eight for the first time was so special and was a great way to go out.”

Gorman said the community supported the volleyball team in much the same way it supported the See gorman, page 55

See playoffs, page 54

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