280 Living June 2013

280 Living

June 2013 | Volume 6 | Issue 10

neighborly news & entertainment

Wedding Trends

The future is

‘NOW’ Trinity cleared to move ahead with relocation

Explore the latest trends in local weddings. Area vendors told us what they are seeing in this issue.

Special page 18

High scores

Christine Haley set a state record for most lacrosse goals scored during a high school career. Learn more inside.

Sports page 25

INSIDE Sponsors ...... 4 280 News ..... 6 Community .. 7 Business ....... 10 Food .............. 12

School House ... 22 Sports ............... 24 Faith ................... 28 Opinion ............. 29 Calendar ........... 30

Pre-Sort Standard U.S. Postage PAID Birmingham, AL Permit #656

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By JEFF THOMPSON Over the past five years, the message in the windows has been a staple sight for U.S. 280 drivers. But by the close of 2015, “NOW” in lights will be just a memory.

As of last month, the message has already been changed. Trinity on 280 is all systems go.

In May, the Alabama Supreme Court decided not to hear cases filed by Brookwood Medical Services, Inc. and St. Vincent’s Hospital against Trinity Medical Center of Birmingham.

After more than four years of court battles, there are no more Trinity Medical Center CEO Keith Granger in front of the former HealthSouth buildhurdles to clear. ing on U.S. 280, which Trinity was cleared to move into last month when the Alabama “We are absolutely Supreme Court refused to hear cases against the hospital. Photo by Jeff Thompson.

ecstatic for the future,” Trinity CEO Keith Granger said.

“Clearly, we look forward to the opportunity to serve one of the fastest growing areas of the state.”

The decision means Trinity is allowed to move forward with plans to relocate from its facility on Montclair Road to the unfinished HealthSouth Corp. building in the Cahaba Center at Grandview. The 1 million-square-foot building was sold to Daniel Corp. in 2008, and Trinity Medical has sought to locate its operation there since then.

Granger said Trinity would begin construction at its new site by the end of the summer.

Work to complete the building, Granger said, would

See TRINITY| page 26

A family in goal Briarwood’s Box family has protected the Lions’ keep for nearly a decade

By JEFF THOMPSON Five miles off U.S. 280 on Alabama 119 there’s a single soccer goal situated in a pasture on a horse farm.

It’s known to its owners, the Box family, as a place to practice their sport.

At Briarwood Christian School, it’s known as “Goalie U.” Beneath its unassuming frame is where this year’s

5A State Champion keeper Jordan Box blocked his first shot, as did the last two BCS goalies, Jordan’s brothers Jonathan and Jeremy.

The Box family has tended the Briarwood goal for nearly the past 10 years, and as of this year, all four brothers who played varsity soccer at the school have a championship ring.

The story starts with the family’s eldest son,

Jonathan, who at 7 years old “stuck a knife in his eye,” as his mother Donna Box described. Seven surgeries later, he has vision in that eye and is doing well, she said. But after that incident, she wasn’t about to let him play football.

“We told him he could choose soccer or scouts,” she said. “So, he started

See BOX | page 27

Brothers Jonathan (back left), Jeremy (back right) and Jordan Box have served as the last three goalies for Briarwood soccer. Photo courtesy of Donna Box.

2 • June 2013

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June 2013 • 3

4 • June 2013

280 Living

About Us Photo of the month

Please Support our Sponsors Spain Park students Deion Wright dressed as Allan Adale and Aaron Aizenman as Robin Hood at Celebrate Hoover Day 2013. That evening, the two characters were featured last month’s production of “The Somewhat True Tale of Robin Hood,” but they braved the morning rain to join the fun at Veterans Park. Photo by Jeff Thompson.

Editor’s Note By Madoline Markham

A change in the wind and are, literally changWhen I first started editing this paper, we would ing overnight.

A few days before revisit the “big 280 news issues” — 280 traffic and the that, other news came that what seemed imempty hospital — on our possible had happened: cover once a year. Those pieces reached back to the Trinity Medical Center was clear to begin conbeginning of the storied history of the respective issues. struction on that glass structure full of potential They also looked ahead to we’ve been watching next steps that would lead to real change. for years. More notably, Madoline But for what felt like an there is little chance opposition can confront eternity, the hospitals continued to fight legal battles, and the them with another legal battle on these Alabama Department of Transporta- issues, as far as we can tell. tion (ALDOT) would submit a plan that Granted, even with this news, we would never get off the ground or just all know that 280 traffic won’t be say “something” was in the works. I re- completely clear with intersection ally thought we’d be writing no-news improvements, and all our medical news for years on end and that we’d concerns won’t vanish once we have perhaps never see anything change with a closer hospital. our own eyes.

But still, these remind me that longBut things changed last month. I got awaited hopes, the ones we start to beon 280 to drive to work and found con- lieve will never come to be, can come struction signs up. The next day, the to fruition, albeit often not in the way turning lanes into our office complex we thought. were shorter. The intersections were, What do you think about the Trin-

280 Living neighborly news & entertainment

Publisher : Creative Director : Executive Editor : Managing Editor : Advertising Manager: Sales and Distribution : Contributing Writers :

Interns :

Dan Starnes Keith McCoy Jeff Thompson Madoline Markham Matthew Allen Rhonda Smith Warren Caldwell Keith Richardson Rick Watson Kari Kampakis Rebecca Walden Lisa Johnsey Nathan Kelly Megan Smith Katey Courtney Mollie Bartholemew Chandler Jones Will Hightower Caroline Drew

ity and ALDOT’s plan for improving U.S. 280 intersections? We’re always looking to hear from you, our neighbors and readers.

And as for those back stories on 280 improvements and Trinity, you can find them on 280living.com if you’re looking for additional detail or context on what’s going on. After all, we are not your insta-news service. There’s plenty of media outlets doing that. Our job is to scoop out what’s going on in your neighborhood and dig deeper to find answers to questions you are asking or don’t yet know to ask.

As always, please let us know how we can better do that for you and your neighbors — email jeff@280living.com or madoline@280living.com any time.

As for the rest of this issue, be sure to check out what’s going on this month as we embrace the freedom, sunshine and, yes, even the humidity of summer, and celebrate our fathers, too.

Contact Information: 280 Living #3 Office Park Circle, Suite 316 Birmingham, AL 35223 313-1780 dan@280living.com Please submit all articles, information and photos to: jeff@280living.com P.O. Box 530341 Birmingham, AL 35253 Published by : 280 Living LLC For advertising contact: dan@280living.com Legals: 280 Living is published monthly. Reproduction or use of editorial or graphic content without prior permission is prohibited. 280 Living is designed to inform the 280 community of area school, family and community events. Information in 280 Living is gathered from sources considered reliable but the accuracy cannot be guaranteed. All articles/photos submitted become the property of 280 Living. We reserve the right to edit articles/photos as deemed necessary and are under no obligation to publish or return photos submitted.

Inaccuracies or errors should be brought to the attention of the publisher at (205) 313-1780 or by email.

Please recycle this paper

Alabama Allergy & Asthma Center (19, 22) Alabama Power (2) Alabama Shakespeare Festival (23) Allstate Insurance - Jay Barker Agency (8) Azia Medical Spa (20) Beaumont Pharmacy (24) Bellini’s (25) Birmingham Speech and Hearing Associates (17) Birmingham Zoo (28) Brookwood Medical Center (2) Bryant Heating and Air (26) Cahaba Beach Dog Park (1) Cahaba Dermatology and Skin Care Center (10) California Closets (20) Charles Dunn (8) Chiropractic Today (20) City of Chelsea (26) Comfort Keepers (16) Cousins Insurance Agency (26) Diana Holladay (15) Encore Rehabilitation (29) Eye Do (27) Four Corners Custom Framing (13) GeGe’s Salon (24) Granger Thagard Associates (8) Greater Shelby County Chamber of Commerce (25) Greystone Antiques & Marketplace (6) Hanna’s Garden Shop (13) Home Care Assistance (14) Home Search Solutions (14) Isbell Jewelers (18) Kobe Japanese Steakhouse (12) M&F Bank (11) Mosquito Squad of Birmingham (6) MoveDaddy (21) Mister Carwash (21) NAPA Auto Parts (5) Pak Mail (11) Pastry Art (18) Plain Jane Children & Gift Shop (16) Plastic Surgery Specialists (22) RealtySouth Marketing (9) Regus (23) Renaissance Consignment and Marketplace (17) Richard Joseph Salon and Spa (1) Royal Automotive (3) Salter Ferguson, LLC (27) Sew Sheri Designs (15) Skin Wellness Center of Alabama (9) SouthFirst Bank (31) Southeastern Jewelers and Engravers (7) St. Vincent’s One Nineteen (12, 32) Studio Red (16) The Altamont School (29) The Cuckoo’s Nest (15, 19) The Ditsy Daisy (27) The Urban Barn (21) Total Care 280 (7) Trinity Medical Center (30) Varsity Sports (25) Village Dermatology (5) World Cellular - Verizon Wireless (31)

June 2013 • 5

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6 • June 2013

280 Living

280 News ALDOT announces incentives to speed up U.S. 280 construction

By JEFF THOMPSON In May, the Alabama Department of Transportation (ALDOT) began its project to improve traffic flow on U.S. 280.

The project includes alterations to 27 intersections along the corridor from Hollywood Boulevard to Hugh Daniel Drive. Work is slated for completion in November.

According to ALDOT Division 3 Engineer Brian Davis, companies Dunn Construction and Apac MidSouth, Inc. were awarded the project in April on a joint bid of $15.6 million.

Davis said any lane closures required for the project would be conducted between 7 p.m. and 6 a.m. to avoid impeding rush hour traffic flow.

An incentive package is included in the agreement to hasten construction. Davis said contractors would receive a $10,000 bonus of per day for each day before August 5 the section between Cherokee Road and Green Valley Road is complete. ALDOT will charge the companies that amount for each day they are late.

For the entire project, contractors will receive a $50,000 bonus per day for each day the project is finished ahead of the Nov. 27 deadline. They will also be charged that amount for each day they extend beyond.

The project includes the removal of multiple traffic signals and median crossings along the nine-mile stretch and will require drivers entering from side streets to perform U-turns in many locations. ALDOT believes this reduction in the number of impediments to traffic flow will increase speeds and decrease travel times.

The launch marks the conclusion of six months of debate on the issue. Among many others, both the Mountain Brook City Council and a group of business owners from the area have met with ALDOT Director John Cooper to voice displeasure with certain aspects of the plan.

Both groups reported ALDOT indicated willingness to consider alternate changes to intersections, but only after sufficient time has passed to test the effectiveness of the current project.

Visit 280living.com for details on each intersection.

Fireworks spectacular to headline Hoover’s Freedom Fest

By REBECCA WALDEN and JEFF THOMPSON Fireworks will return to the Hoover Met this Fourth of July, but the show promises to be unlike any the stadium saw during its time hosting the Barons.

“I think, actually, my terms were this needs to be the best firework show around on the Fourth of July,” said Lansden Hill Jr., president and CEO of Pyro Shows.

Pyro Shows is a company based in Tennessee that produced fireworks displays for the Birmingham Barons before the team relocated, but the company has extended its reach far beyond the Hoover Met. It has hosted displays on multiple continents and has orchestrated the annual show at the National Mall in Washington D.C. for the past decade.

Hill said the company puts on approximately 800 shows each year – 200 shows on the Fourth of July alone – but this show in Hoover, part of the City’s new Freedom Fest celebration, is intended for a bigger audience.

“In designing the Fourth of July fireworks spectacular for the City of Hoover, we planned to use fireworks up to six inches in diameter,” Hill said. “Each six-inch shell is about the size of a grapefruit and weighs about three pounds.”

Hill said the company would launch more than 100 of these as part of the

Vendors & Consignors Welcome

Decorating & Upholstery Services Available We have over 70 Vendors with new merchandise arriving daily.

5475 Highway 280 Birmingham, AL • 205-995-4773 Open: Monday - Saturday 10 - 6 and Sundays 1 - 5.

The City of Hoover is planning to anchor its new event, Freedom Fest, with a large fireworks display by Pyro Shows. Photo courtesy Pyro Shows.

Hoover show. The shells travel at 200 miles per hour, reach altitudes of 600 feet and, when they explode, spread more than 600 feet in diameter.

For reference, imagine 600 feet as about the length of 15 school buses set endto-end. That, or about six blue whales.

The Freedom Fest fireworks spectacular will be accompanied by patriotic music. Both begin at 9 p.m., but according to Hoover Events Coordinator Erin Colbaugh, Hoover Mayor Gary Ivey’s plan was to “make an evening

out of it.”

Gates open at 5 p.m., but the City is inviting local car clubs to arrive at 4:30 p.m. and display near the Met’s front gate.

“If you have a car you want to display – anything from antique cars to muscle cars to hot rods – bring it in,” Colbaugh said. “There’s no charge.”

Beginning at 6 p.m., the City has arranged for performances by local bands Three on a String, Total Assets and Steve Padilla. Throughout the evening, a kids zone with inflatables will be set up on the

picnic side of the facility and concessions, including adult beverages, will be available for purchase.

Outside food won’t be allowed in the facility, and Colbaugh said the City would be checking bags at the gate.

“The main point is that Mayor Ivey wants to focus on this event being familyfriendly, safe and free,” Colbaugh said about Freedom Fest. “This event bills all that.”

For more, contact the City of Hoover at 444-7500 or visit hooveral.org.

June 2013 • 7

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Community Free Friday Flicks schedule Grab a blanket, family and friends and enjoy a free family-friendly movie every week this summer at Veterans Park next to Spain Park High School. Movies will be shown every Friday night from May 31-July 19.

Films start at dusk. Come early to visit vendors, get food and enjoy fun activities.

All movies shown are rated PG. For updates on rain delays or cancellations,

follow @BYMovieParties on Twitter.

The schedule for the summer is as follows: June 7: Ice Age Continental Drift June 14: Escape from Planet Earth June 21: The Odd Life of Timothy Green June 28: Hotel Transylvania July 5: The Lorax July 12: Madagascar 3 July 19: Wreck it Ralph

Area churches hosting Vacation Bible Schools Brook Highland Community Church. Will not hold VBS. Zentangle Workshop June 2, 1:30-3:30 p.m. Open to all ages. Visit brookhighlandchurch.org for more.

Chelsea Creek Community Church. June 17-21, 9 a.m.-noon. Open to ages K-fifth grade. Visit chelseacreekcc.org or call 9568435 for more.

Chelsea Village Baptist Church. June 10-14, 8:30 -11 a.m. Open to K-fifth grade. Visit chesleavillagebaptist.org/vbs.asp or call 5223683 for more.

Christ Church United Methodist. June 3-7, 9 a.m.-noon. Open to 4K- fifth grade. Contact Sarah Kloewer at skloewer@christchurchtv. org or visit awakenkids.wufoo.com/forms/ z7x3p3/ for more.

CrossBridge Church of Christ. June 10-13, 9 a.m.-noon. Open to kids of all ages. Call 991-1978 for more.

First Christian Church. July 22-26, 9 a.m.-noon. Open to ages 4-fifth grade. Call 991-5000 for more.

Liberty Crossings United Methodist Church. June 17-21, 9 a.m.-noon. Open to

K-fifth grade. Call 951-7707 for more.

Liberty Park Baptist Church. June 3-7, 8:55 a.m.-noon. Open to ages 4-fifth grade. Visit libertypark.org/vbs or call 969-1236 for more.

Meadow Brook Baptist Church. June 3-7, 9 a.m.-noon. Open to 5K-fifth grade. Call 991 –8384 for more.

Morningstar United Methodist Church.

July 29-August 1, 9-11:30 a.m. Open to ages 3-fifth grade. Community Worship Experience at 7 p.m. and open to all ages. Nightly nursery available for ages younger than 3. Call 6782572 or visit morningstarumc.co for more.

New Hope Cumberland Presbyterian.

June 26-28, 6-8 p.m.; June 29, 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Open to ages K-eighth grade. Call 9915252 for more.

Shepherd of the Hills Lutheran Church.

July 14, 1-5 p.m., July 15-18, 5-8 p.m. Open to ages K- fifth grade. Visit sothl.org/content/ vbs-2013 for more.

St. Catherine’s Episcopal Church. August 5-8, 6-8 p.m. Open to ages. Summer Day Camp June 18-21, 9 a.m.-3 p.m. Open to 5Kfourth grade. Call 991-8384 for more.

5299 Valleydale Road Suite 111 Birmingham, AL 35242 (two blocks from 280) www.southeasternjewelers.net • 980-9030

8 • June 2013

Akerman named principal at OLV Catholic

280 Living

Spain Park’s trio of triplets

National event to focus on Sacred Harp hymns

Dr. Warren Steel, professor of music at University of Mississippi, has attended every national convention, starting in 1980. Photo courtesy of Martha Beverly.

J. Mark Akerman

Our Lady of the Valley Catholic School has named J. Mark Akerman as principal, effective July 1. Akerman succeeds Sandra Roden, who is retiring after 19 years as principal and a combined 38 years in education in the Diocese of Birmingham.

“Mr. Akerman has devoted his career to Catholic education and brings to OLV extensive experience in Catholic schools, including 17 years in administration,” commented Msgr. Paul Rohling, V.G. Pastor of Our Lady of the Valley.

During his career, Akerman has been a leader of Catholic preschool, elementary and middle school programs. He holds two degrees from Appalachian State University, and has a masters degree in Education Administration and Supervision from Florida A&M University.

Akerman has been married to his wife, Angie, for 28 years, and they have two children: Cole, 18, and Emma, 11.

Akerman will become the school’s fourth principal in its 29-year history.

Our Lady of the Valley Catholic School has twice been named a U.S. Department. of Education Blue Ribbon School of Excellence. For more, visit olvbirmingham.com

Spain Park High School’s Class of 2013 includes three sets of triplets: Amanda, Carlton and Danielle Ivy; Paige, Connor and Catherine Burleson; and Sam, Hannah and A.J. Hudson.

Photo courtesy of Hoover City Schools.

When Spain Park High School’s Class of 2013 graduated last month, some of the students had more in common than a high school experience: a set of parents. Three sets of triplets were in the graduating class.

Who knows the odds of this happening in one city, at one school, in one graduating class. But for whatever reason – it’s happened at Spain Park High School – and it’s caused quite a buzz.

All three sets are fraternal, not identical. That being the case, many at the school haven’t even realized over the years that the three sets of triplets existed. All trekked through Hoover City Schools K-12, with two sets beginning at Greystone Elementary and one at Riverchase Elementary.

“We’ve all been (in the same school) since sixth grade and have come all the way up through high school together,” Carlton Ivy said.

Amanda, Carlton and Danielle Ivy; Paige, Connor and Catherine Burleson; and Sam, Hannah and A.J. Hudson comprise the trio of triplets. A tight bond not only exists within the individual triplet sets but also among the three sets collectively. Some of their families travel together. One of the Burlesons is dating a Hud-

son. You get the picture.

“It brings us closer. It’s the basis of our friendship, but there’s also so much more than that. We are all really, really good friends. Not just because we’re triplets but because we get along so well together,” Paige Burleson said.

The fraternal nature of their birth differs appearances just enough to throw people off. This May, however, it was impossible not to know these guys and gals are triplets. Photo opps were staged all around the front of the school, the media center and the courtyard.

Triplets stick together – as evidenced by their colleges and universities of choice. Four colleges/universities are represented among the nine: The University of Alabama; Auburn University; Birmingham-Southern College; and the University of Alabama at Birmingham. In fact, one triplet trio – the Ivys – all will be attending UA. “There’s always something in common between us, and we’ve grown a lot closer this senior year. It’s sad to see everyone go, but being triplets has really brought us closer,” Hannah Hudson said.

-Submitted by Hoover City Schools

First Christian Church will host the 34th Annual National Sacred Harp Singing Convention June 13-15. The event will feature three days of Southern hospitality, fellowship and shape note singing from the Sacred Harp Hymnal originally published in 1844. All events are open to the public.

Sacred Harp sings are participatory events.

There are no rehearsals and no performances.

People who love the unique style and traditions of Sacred Harp gather to enjoy singing hymns, odes and anthems from the Sacred Harp Hymnal in four parts, a cappella.

The singers sit in a hollow square with the voice parts facing one another. The melody is in the tenor line, and both men and women sing tenor and treble.

The National Sacred Harp singing Convention began in Birmingham in 1980 and has been held here each June since.

Last year, it welcomed 700 singers from 29 U.S. states, Ireland, Canada and the UK. Festivities will run 9:30 a.m.-2 p.m. daily and include a covered dish lunch.

First Christian Church is located at 4954 Valleydale Road. For more visit mcsr.olemiss. edu/~mudws/national.html or contact P. Gaston White at 879-1909 or pgwhite1909@ gmail.com.

June 2013 • 9

280Living.com

Scouts spend night aboard battleship

Cub Scout Pack 533 toures the USS Alabama in Mobile. Photo courtesy of Eric Denenberg.

Cub Scout Pack 533 of Birmingham recently spent the night aboard the USS Alabama in Mobile.

The Pack toured the USS Alabama, the USS Drum submarine and military aircraft and ground vehicles on the battleship quarters used

by Navy servicemen during World War II. Fifty Cub Scouts, fathers and grandfathers

in attendance gained a better understanding and appreciation for the contributions made by military personnel in times of conflict.

Cub Scout Pack 533 meets at Oak Mountain Church on Highway 119 and State Road 14. Anyone interested in Pack 533 can contact Cubmaster Carl Lund at 504-5200 for more information.

Summer concert at Morgan Creek Morgan Creek Vineyard is offering a summer concert on June 18. Enjoy the music of Stuart McNair and Louisiana Hayride and the annual fireworks show.

The event also includes a winery tour and

wine tasting. Guests are welcome to pack a picnic or purchase food on site. Admission is $10/person, and the event will last from 6-10 p.m. Call 672-2053 for more information, or visit morgancreekwinery.com.

2908 Central Avenue, Suite 150 • Homewood, AL 35209 398 Chesser Drive, Suite 3 • Chelsea, AL 35043 205.871.7332 • WWW.SKINWELLNESSAL.COM

10 • June 2013

280 Living

Business Spotlight

Read past Business Spotlights at 280Living.com

3557 Cahaba Beach Road 397-3647 cahababeachdogpark.com Monday- Friday, 7 a.m.-6 p.m.

Saturday, 7 a.m.- noon Sundays, 4-6 p.m.* *drop off and pick up only Dog Park open from dusk to dawn daily

Cahaba Beach Dog Park

By KATEY COURTNEY Ken and Ann Horne and their family have taken the typical dog park experience to the next level. Their new Cahaba Beach Dog Park opened behind Home Depot off Highway 280 last month.

A 7,700-square-foot facility, Cahaba Beach Dog Park offers doggie day care, boarding and grooming services, and training.

“Our daughter Stacy said we should open a high caliber dog park in the Birmingham area,” said Ken Horne. “Now, I’m proud to say that we’re being considered the ‘Disneyland for Dogs.’”

The boarding facility offers furry friends a vacation of their own while their owners are away. Pet owners can choose from a variety of packages including standard, junior, executive and presidential suites. Each suite holds a fiveinch memory foam bed and a web cam for owners to view their dogs remotely. Junior, executive and presidential feature televisions that play movies such as Rin Tin Tin and Lassie.

“We want the dogs that stay with us to be as comfortable as possible with us, and we want owners to know that their pets are being treated like royalty,” said Horne.

The facility’s private off-leash dog park offers more than three acres of shaded play areas, complete with tunnels, ramps, water features and trail ways. Furry friend owners can also enjoy a vending area and bocce ball with their four-legged friends, as well as a fort for kids.

Owners Carlton, Ann and Ken Horne with Daisy. Not pictured are co-owners Mike and Stacy Seremet, Ken and Ann’s daughter and son-in-law. Photo by Katy Courtney.

“We plan on catering to humans, as well as animals,” Horne said.

In order to join the dog park, all pets must pass a temperate evaluation given by a certified animal behavior consultant and have vaccines on file from their veterinarian, so owners know every pet in the park is appropriate for group play. Monthly fees for park membership are $15 for single-pet families or $20 for multi-pet families; members also receive discounts on other services.

The park has also incorporated an

Dogs explore the facilities at the new Cahaba Beach Dog Park. Photos courtesy of Emily Gaunt Photography.

amphitheater to the complex that will host dog sport demos and community events for area animal outreach and assistance programs.

“We hope to incorporate fundraisers into our facility in the future. We want to continue to make a difference in the community and in the animal world. We want to keep moving forward,” Horne said.

In the process of building the facility, contractor Mark Thompson worked with the family to create an eco-friendly building. The bricks were excavated from a burned building

in Bessemer, and excavated rock from the property was used to line trail ways, play areas and water features. Most of the property’s original trees remain, with only some removed to add a play area.

“We thought this would be something nice to offer the community,” Horne said. “Our lives have gone to the dogs, and it is a nice place to keep pets while owners are away and to get pampered as well.”

To keep up with Cahaba Beach Dog Park, follow them on Facebook.

June 2013 • 11

280Living.com

Business Happenings New restaurants opening Tony Rays Pizza opens The newest pizza place in town recently opened on U.S. 280 near Hanna’s Garden Shop just west of Doug Baker Boulevard.

Tony Rays Pizza is independently owned

by Shane Ray and Anthony Enterkin, who dreamed of starting a pizza restaurant for years.

Ray has 15 years of experience in the restaurant industry, and Enterkin has more than 20. But this is the first restaurant either has owned.

“Our goal is, obviously, to have the best possible product, but also to have a consistent image,” Ray said. “We will have set uniforms and clean-cut servers, and will do our best to deliver pizza as fast as possible. Most companies these days have forgotten about image, but we are making it a priority.”

Visit tonyrayspizza.com or call 995-8669 for more.

Lock Corp Inc. opens in Chelsea Sam Sciara and his sister Michele Harrell recently launched Lock Corp Inc., a full-line lock and safe business in Chelsea. The company, which was founded with the help of Sciara’s neighbor, Randee Lanham, has been open for four weeks and is completely mobile.

Sciara, who has worked for both the FBI and U.S. Secret Service, has served the Birmingham community as a locksmith for more than 20 years. Lanham, after moving from Arizona and getting to know Sciara, began to encourage Sciara to open his own company because of all the positive feedback his customers were giving him.

“Sam is the best in the business,” Lanham said. “He works hard and just knows how to make things work. People love him. We have already had return business in the four weeks we have been open.”

The company can handle new lock installation, lock repair, duplicate keys, safes, file cabinets, master keying and more.

Call 565-7339 or email lockcorp@lockcorpinc.com for more.

Alabama Biscuit Co. set to open soon The Alabama Biscuit Company, which features a new twist on Southern-style biscuits, is set to open in June in Cahaba Heights. Owner Jonathan Burch’s vision for the company is to have local, organic biscuits that are both healthy and delicious.

“We will have stone-mill ground flour to make buttermilk biscuits that are healthy and organic,” Burch said. “We stay away from the gravy and fried chicken because people can’t eat that every day and be healthy – we want

our customers to bring their kids and be able to eat our biscuits regularly.”

The uncompromising nutritional standard Burch vows to uphold, along with innovative ways of topping the biscuits, make the Alabama Biscuit Company a unique place. Burch said his favorite way to enjoy a biscuit is with almond butter and wild blueberry jelly.

The company will take over the former Primavera location in Cahaba Heights. Besides a variety of biscuits, the company will serve wholesale and retail flour in bags, frozen biscuits to enjoy at home, and the popular Octane coffee. They will also offer several gluten-free options.

“We’re going to make things like our gluten-free dairy free muffins with coconut flour and almond flour because they’re tasty and good for folks, not because of the current gluten-free fad,” Burch said.

Walter Renneker is the architect designing the space, which will feature reclaimed wood from around Alabama that makes for a style Burch described as “agri-chic.” The black walnut table-tops and paneled walls from old picket fences make for a modernized look with a classic old south feel.

Visit the Alabama Biscuit Company’s Facebook page for more information and to see pictures of the biscuits they will be serving.

The Gingerbread Lady changes locations The Gingerbread Lady, which sells elaborate gingerbread houses, candy, jewelry and more, is moving locations in the Colonnade.

The new location, which recently opened, is next door to the Lady Fingers Salon.

The Gingerbread Lady has been making gingerbread houses for 52 years and features a wide variety of treats in her gift shop, which she describes as a year-round Christmas store.

With a motto of “expect the unexpected,” the Gingerbread Lady does everything from baby showers to White House gingerbread replicas.

The new store is updated with improved window fronts, ceramic tile floors and more space than the old one. The Gingerbread Lady plans to start gingerbread-decorating classes and is in the process of making an online store available to order houses.

For more, visit thegingerbreadlady.net or call the Gingerbread Lady at 960-7040.

Stein Mart on 280 closed An employee with the company confirmed Stein Mart in the Brook Highland shopping center is temporarily closed but could not release an expected duration for the closing. The store is located at 5275 U.S. 280 S. Suite 119.

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12 • June 2013

280 Living

Food My Daddy’s Carrot Cake And other recipes with a Bugs Bunny favorite

By LISA JOHNSEY Forty years ago, my father jotted down his friend’s recipe for carrot cake not knowing it would become a precious memory for my birthday for as long as I can remember. Now the recipe hangs on the wall in my kitchen

RECIPE

and serves as a sweet reminder of how much my dad means to me. Baking with him reminds me of some other carrot recipes we love.

My mom makes a delicious carrot raisin salad, which is an old fashioned dish that we enjoy paired with some of our favorite chicken salad and fruit for a light

My Daddy’s Carrot Cake

2 cups all purpose flour 2 cups sugar 1 1/2 cups Wesson oil 4 eggs 2 teaspoons baking soda 1 teaspoon salt 1 teaspoon cinnamon 3 cups grated carrots

and healthy lunch. While living in South Florida, I found a simple and delicious recipe for some glazed carrots. The shallots and dill add a delightful, savory flavor that complements the sweetness from the carrots and honey.

Try these new recipes from our table to yours!

RECIPE

Carrot Raisin Salad

1/2 cup golden raisins 2 pounds carrots, unpeeled 3 tablespoons sugar 3 tablespoons lemon juice 1/4 cup sour cream 1/2 cup mayonnaise Salt and pepper, to taste Fresh pineapple, diced, to taste

Mix dry ingredients in a bowl. Add oil and beat for two minutes. Add eggs and beat for two more minutes. Stir in carrots and mix well. Bake in three layers at 350 degrees for 35 minutes.

Cream Cheese Icing 1-8 oz. package cream cheese 1/2 stick butter 1 box confectioner’s sugar 2 teaspoons vanilla 1 cup chopped pecans Cream butter and cream cheese together. Add sugar and beat until blended. Add vanilla and nuts. Stir to combine. Spread evenly on the layers and frost cake.

Grate carrots and put in a large bowl. Stir in lemon juice and sugar. In a small bowl, add raisins and then water to plump them up. Mix together sour cream, mayonnaise, and salt and pepper. Drain the raisins and add to carrots. Add pineapple and sour cream mixture and stir to combine. Serve cold or at room temperature.

Lisa Johnsey and her father with her framed copy of his recipe for carrot cake.

RECIPE

Glazed Carrots

5-6 carrots 2 tablespoons butter 1 shallot minced 1/4 cup chicken stock 1 tablespoon honey 2 tablespoons fresh dill Salt and pepper, to taste Peel carrots and slice them diagonally into about 1/4-inch pieces. In a large saucepan, melt butter until foamy and add then shallots. When they are tender, add carrots and chicken stock. Turn heat to low and cover.

Continue to cook until carrots are tender, about 10-15 minutes. Add honey, salt and pepper, and dill. Serve immediately.

Note: I like to serve this as a side dish with grilled chicken or ham.

June 2013 • 13

280Living.com

Read all the past Restaurant Showcases at 280Living.com

Restaurant Showcase

Seasons 52

Summit

968-5152 245 Summit Blvd.

Seasons52.com Sunday-Thursday, 11 a.m.-10 p.m.

Friday-Saturday, 11 a.m.-11 p.m.

By MEGAN SMITH Butter isn’t an option at Season 52. But taste isn’t sacrificed either.

True to its name, the restaurant, now open at The Summit, changes its specialties every week and its menu four times a year with the seasons.

“We emphasize fresh,” said Karis Wells, field sales manager. “We keep the menu ever changing with a farm-to-table mentality.”

Seasons 52 uses natural cooking techniques such as grilling with an oak and mesquite wood fire grill and roasting, but never frying. Guest favorites include the Cedar Plank Roasted Salmon, Caramelized Sea Scallops, WoodRoasted Pork Tenderloin, Mesquite-Grilled Garlic Shrimp and Saffron Risotto, Grilled Lamb T-Bone Chops and the Oak-Grilled Filet Mignon. And everything on the menu is 475 calories or fewer.

“You can enjoy everything,” Wells said. “The portions aren’t too big or too small. Everything tastes incredible, and at 475 calories, it’s completely guilt-free.”

Bookends of the menu include a variety of flatbreads as appetizer choices and award winning “mini indulgence” desserts. Even the specialty martinis are under 475 calories.

The focal point of the restaurant’s offerings is pairing its ever-changing menu with an extensive wine list developed by George Miliotes, one of fewer than 200 Master Sommeliers in the world. More than 60 of its 100 wines can be ordered by the glass, encouraging diners to explore different pairings with each course.

Wells said the staff is trained to be knowledgeable on wine recommendations.

Seasons 52 Field Sales Manager Karis Wells emphasizes the freshness of the restaurant’s seasonal menu.

All dishes at Seasons 52, including the Mahi Mahi Tacos, are fewer than 475 calories.

“We don’t want guests intimidated by the menu,” Wells said.

Until 6 p.m. each day, the restaurant offers a $15 “flights and flatbread” option where guests pick three wines to sample, then can select a full glass of their favorite of the three and with their choice of flatbread.

The restaurant hosts a 2,000-bottle chilled wine chateau with more wine behind the bar for easy access. Bottles line horizontal and slanted shelves around the restaurant.

“We want to keep a comfortable atmosphere instead of the heavy atmosphere that many upscale restaurants have,” Wells said.

Upon arrival, guests are greeted with complimentary valet parking before approaching a window-wall entrance surrounded by autumn ledgestone columns.

Inside, a raised fireplace and a seating area await. Himalayan mahogany and more ledgstone decorate the interior with pops of accents colors near decorative wine bottles.

A larger chandelier spotlights the 12-person private chef’s table, and the restaurant also features three other private rooms.

No matter the size of the party, all guests can enjoy a live piano bar every night starting at 6 p.m. and complimentary Wi-Fi. Alternative menus with lactose-free, low sodium, gluten-free and vegan items also include a variety of options.

“We want to keep it interesting,” Wells said.

“People shouldn’t be punished for having a food allergy.”

14 • June 2013

280 Living

Summer fun around

Ruffner Mountain Nature Preserve. Photo courtesy Ruffner Mountain.

By MOLLIE BARTHOLEMEW Summer is upon us. Hitting the pool and playing around the neighborhood are great, but it’s also fun to get outside the U.S. 280 area for a new adventure. We’ve compiled a list of things to do just a short drive away, some outdoor and some indoor, some close by and some a little further away.

I’ve tried them all out with my family and recommend each and every one. You’ll also find contact information as well as the driving distance and time from Lee Branch to help you plan your trip.

280 Living Sales Manager Matthew Allen tries out the new Beanstalk Forest at Red Mountain Park.

Outdoor Fun

Ruffner Mountain Nature Preserve

Red Mountain Park

23 miles, 30 minutes.

Enjoy miles of tranquil forest-covered trails as well as heart-pumping ridgeline trails. The new architecturally “green” Treehouse Visitor Center boasts a woodland animal exhibit, and the back porch is a perfect place for a family picnic.

• For the GPS: 1214 81st St. S., Birmingham, AL 35206 Visit ruffnermountain.org or call 833-8264 for more.

17 miles, 30 minutes.

Birmingham’s newest green space offers o10 miles of hiking trails, seven miles of mountain biking trails and two miles of flat trails. The Tree House at the top of the ridge is a favorite for kids of all ages! For those with older kids seeking more adventure, a thrilling zip line tour through the canopy of trees or the new the Beanstalk Forest adventure will please even the least outdoorsy family member.

• For the GPS: 277 Lyon Lane, Birmingham, AL 35211 Visit redmountainpark.org or call 202-6043 for more.

Moss Rock Preserve and Waterfalls 15 miles, 25 minutes Spend a morning hiking the 10 miles of trails at

Moss Rock Preserve. The trails will whisk you past two cascading waterfalls and through a unique and historic boulder field. These huge rocks were once used by Native Americans as campsites, and today are popular for bouldering and rock climbing. The rocks are also a wonderland for kids; the tunnels are a great for a game of hide and seek.

• For the GPS: 617 Preserve Parkway, Birmingham, AL 35226 Visit exploresouthernhistory.com/mossrock.html.

Tannehill Ironworks Historical State Park 32 miles, 45 minutes Discover how Birmingham’s iron industry began on these 1,500 acres through blacksmith

June 2013 • 15

280Living.com

town Displays at the Southern Museum of Flight. Photo courtesy of Southern Museum of Flight.

demonstrations held at Tannehill on the weekends. A mini train also chugs 1 mile up to Farley Field. Many of the hiking trails available today were used by Confederate troops during the Civil War and are some of the most beautiful sections of the park. Skip rocks in the creek or even bring a fishing pole, as the creek is stocked with Rainbow Trout. Wrap up your visit with something delicious at the Sweet Shoppe for the short ride home.

• For the GPS: 12632 Confederate Parkway, McCalla, AL 35111 Visit tannehill.org or call 477-5711 for more.

Argo Drive-In 23 miles, 30 minutes An inexpensive and fun way to spend an evening with the family! Go back to the 1950s with an old-fashioned drive-in. Pack an appetizer-style picnic dinner the family can graze on, complete with homemade popcorn. If the evening proves to be a nice southern night, open your tailgate and line the back with pillows or use a blow up mattress in a friend’s truck bed. If you want to move outdoors, BYOC (bring your own chair), grab a blanket, and set up shop facing the screen. There is nothing like taking in a family flick under the southern night sky.

• For the GPS: 45 Woodland Road, Harpersville, AL 35078 Visit argodrive-in.com or call 672-8484 for more.

Indoor Fun Peanut Depot 14 miles, 25 minutes.

What could be better than a warm bag of peanuts on a cold and rainy day? Drive into the loft district and walk onto cobblestoned Morris Avenue to take a trip back in time. Take in the architecture as you walk into the turn-of-thecentury building that houses the Peanut Depot.

Let the kids enjoy the sights and sounds of the antique roasters roasting peanuts the original organic way. Be sure to take a bag to go – the first bag will likely be gone before you arrive back in Shelby County.

• For the GPS: 2016 Morris Ave, Birmingham, AL 35203 Visit peanutdepot.com or call 251-3314 for more.

Vintage Fire Truck Museum 15 miles, 25 minutes.

Imagine you are 5 years old, dreaming of hopping in an open-top fire truck, honking the horn, running the siren, and even pretending you are racing to a real fire. Now wake up – in downtown Birmingham, this is a reality. The Southern Vintage Fire Apparatus Association houses more than 20 vintage fire trucks dating back to 1917. Truck owners and museum staff couldn’t be any nicer or more excited to share their collection with your family. It is a morning well spent and a ball for all who are young and young at heart.

Contact Jerry Northington at 903-0050 to schedule a visit.

Southern Museum of Flight 20 miles, 30 minutes.

Let the kids take off on a morning of adventure at this museum of southern aviation history. The attraction is outstandingly familyfriendly and offers fun for toddlers through teens. A pilots’ playroom includes an indoor mini playground and many aircraft toys, a Moonwalk, an airplane open for exploration and a flight simulator for kids age 12 and over.

An F-4 Phantom provides shade for the perfect picnic spot, so pack a lunch for this high-flying fun morning.

• For the GPS: 4343 73rd St. N., Birmingham, AL 35206 Visit southernmuseumofflight.org or call 833-8226 for more.

Golden Flake Company 15 miles, 30 minutes.

Have you ever eaten a warm chip right off the delivery line? Well if not, you’re in luck.

Birmingham is home to one of the oldest and most recognizable snack companies in the nation, Golden Flake. The company offers walking tours to ages 5 and up Monday through Wednesday. Come hungry — you will have plenty of time to sample warm chips just off the line, as well as take some bags of fresh chips home with you and all for free!

• For the GPS: 1 Golden Flake Drive, Birmingham, AL 35205 Visit goldenflake.com/tours.html or call 323-6161 for more.

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16 • June 2013

280 Living

St. Vincent’s aims to build healthier community with annual Block Party

By JEFF THOMPSON This month, there’s only one place in town to take in a capella music, watch a canine relay team and learn about cancer from inside an inflatable colon.

The St. Vincent’s One Nineteen Block Party and Health Festival is scheduled for Saturday, June 8, from 5-8 p.m. rain or shine and features these highlights and more.

Organizers saw record attendance last year as more than 1,000 turned out for the event.

This year’s family-friendly festival promises a carnival atmosphere with additional live music and activities for children, but at its heart remains the mission of St. Vincent’s to build healthy communities. Organizers said the free health screenings offered at the event are slated to be more effective, comprehensive and numerous than in years past.

“It’s an event about awareness,” said Scott Goggins, service integration manager at St. Vincent’s One Nineteen. “We want all of Shelby County and the surrounding area to be healthy, and to us that all starts with preventative care.”

The event will give the community an opportunity to take advantage of free health screenings, including cholesterol, blood sugar, blood pressure, vision/hearing, skin cancer evaluations, colorectal take-home kits, prescription consultations, physical therapy consultations, and foot screening and analysis. Goggins

The Flyball Dogs demonstration team is scheduled to appear at this year’s Block Party.

said health professionals will be onsite to interpret results.

Health-related vendors such as the American Heart Association and the American Diabetes Association will also be at the event. And don’t forget about the inflatable colon. The walk-through educational tool will be set up to teach attendees about the importance of colorectal screening.

The event also includes a wealth of activities for children. Goggins said besides the two moonwalks and

Residents of the U.S. 280 area participate in a Spin Bike class at the 2012 St. Vincent’s One Nineteen Block Party and Health Festival. Photos by Freddy Beeson, courtesy of St. Vincent’s One Nineteen.

the obstacle course, face painting, hair coloring and balloon art will be available. In addition, the Hoover Police Department is landing its helicopter on site.

“I think the kids will love that,” Goggins said.

Live music is also on this year’s schedule. A capella singers from the Back in Time Band will be followed up by the sounds of The Double Feature Band with Cathy Palmer. Other highlights include a

demonstration from the Flyball Dogs as well as free Zumba, hula hoop and Spinning classes.

“It’s a pretty well-rounded event for the whole family,” Goggins said.

Other activities include free chair massages from Spa One Nineteen and the opportunity to visit healthy information booths from local organizations and physician offices.

“At St. Vincent’s One Nineteen it is our goal and mission to build a healthier community,” said

Stephanie Holderby, executive director of St. Vincent’s One Nineteen and vice president of the St. Vincent’s Ambulatory Healthcare Network. “The Block Party and Health Festival along with our monthly educational seminars and physician lectures provide us with the opportunity to promote real and total health.”

For more information about the Block Party and Health Festival, call 408-6600 or visit onenineteen.com.

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June 2013 • 17

280Living.com

Summer Fun Photo Contest

Capture the fun of summer with your camera, and send us your favorite shots of the backyard, lake, beach, mountain, neighborhood, and wherever you and your family are.

Our staff will choose the images that most colorfully capture a summer experience.

Prizes will be awarded to contest winners.

Category One: Any summer fun photo Category Two: A summer fun photo displaying a copy of 280 Living wherever you are To enter, email your photos in a jpeg format to photos@280Living.com.

Please send high quality images and include a caption and photo credit.

Only four entry photos are allowed per person.

280 Living neighborly news & entertainment

Deadline for entries is August 1, 2013. We will publish the winners in the September issue as well as post them on our Facebook page and 280Living.com

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2013 Wedding trends

18 • June 2013

Weddings are returning to a rustic chic. According to local vendors, styles for celebrations are all about the outdoors, as brides are choosing to mix Southern style with traditional class on their wedding days.

Go outdoors

Vendors are seeing more weddings take place in outdoor venues and locations other than churches.

The settings are more relaxed, and include sites from gardens to

barns. Joy Oglesby of Blue Moon Photography in Hoover said popular outdoor venues in the area include Mathews Manor in Springville (mathewsmanor.com); Windwood Farms, an equestrian facility in Pelham (windwoodequestrian.com); and The Sonnet House on Alabama 119 in Leeds (thesonnethouse.com).

Planning an event outdoors can require more work, as brides must make a backup plan as well.

“Always factor in a rain plan

and work with coordinator that is possible for any size party you have,” said Elizabeth Furst, events coordinator with Aldridge Gardens in Hoover. “Factor in preparation for cold as well, and always wear heel covers so you don’t sink into the grass.”

Bring on the boots

Heel covers won’t be a problem for many brides this year though, as more and more are choosing to walk

280 Living

Local vendors share what’s hot for celebrations this season

down the aisle in something other than stilettos.

“We’re seeing a lot of girls want dresses they can wear with cowboy boots, and they’re having their bridesmaids wear boots as well,” said Vickie Burgin, formalwear manager at Renaissance Consignment and Marketplace. “Since the beginning of the year, we’ve probably had a dozen brides ask about boots.”

Angela Paul, a consultant with Bella’s Bridal in Hoover, said while

the shoes are becoming less formal, the dresses aren’t.

“No matter what the venue is or the theme of the wedding, a bride’s gown can be as formal as anything,” Paul said. “We’ve seen ball gowns at beach weddings. Just put those cowboy boots on underneath.”

But if boots aren’t the way to go, brides are still finding ways to add flare to their feet. Oglesby said more than once this year she’s seen a bride’s “something blue” be her shoes.

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C R E AT I V E B A K E D G O O D S

June 2013 • 19

280Living.com

Photos courtesy of Blue Moon Photography.

Country chic

Rustic accents are also widely used in country-chic style. Vendors said burlap trims just about everything.

“We’re seeing mason jars used for receptions,” said Karen Jenkins, owner and manager of Hoover Florist.

“And burlap is in big time this year.

We’ve done bows on bouquets or wrapped the handles in burlap. We’ve also wrapped thin strips around the tops of the jars.”

Speaking of parties, this year’s receptions are also increasingly country. Often, brides are having their receptions at the same location

as the wedding.

“People are making their receptions more laid back,” Furst said. “Instead of formal, sit-down events, this year’s receptions have been more social with things like lawn games and casual food at stations.”

Pink is back

With flowers, Jenkins said brides are carrying bouquets with more color, while there is less color in arrangements for bridesmaids.

Furst said along with the burlap trimmings, pale pink and cream have been widely used in summer

weddings, and last fall she saw bright yellows and gray.

“Before, pink left the scene,” she said. “Now it’s making comeback in different shades.”

Paul said this year’s brides aren’t necessarily looking for white or ivory dresses, and she’s seen an increasing number of requests for blush, light pink and light gold.

In addition, many of this year’s brides are choosing to honor the memory of loved ones in their weddings. Vendors have attached items like a grandmother’s broach and a father’s handkerchief to bouquets.

The first look

As a photographer, Oglesby said one trend she’s enjoyed is that many brides and grooms are choosing to see each other before the ceremony.

“We feel there’s a lot of reasons for it, she said. “For one, it helps get the butterflies out. It also allows some time for you and him so you’re not rushed.”

Taking time before the ceremony helps the photographer as well, she said.

“I think it’s an awesome trend,” she said. “It’s good for the photographer because we can do all the photos

before the wedding and you don’t have an hour-long gap between your ceremony and party.”

– From Staff Reports Thanks to Hoover Florist (hooverflorist.net), Blue Moon Photography (bluemoonstudios.net), Bella’s Bridal (bellasalabama.com), Aldridge Gardens (aldridgegardens. com) and Renaissance Consignment and Marketplace (renaissanceconsignment.com) for contributing to this article.

20 •June 2013

280 Living

Your Health Today

By Dr. Irma Palmer

“Eat more healthy whole grains.” How many times have you heard this? At least a million times from our schools, lunch programs, TV, media, grocery store items, health care professionals, etc. Even the food pyramid encourages more healthy whole grain to balance our nutrition, reduce our cholesterol, promote healthy bowel function and of course, for weight loss.

What if the entire concept was untrue and false? What if wheat and gluten have actually been the culprit all this time with the rise of our nation’s waistlines? That’s the message in a book I strongly recommend, Wheat Belly: Lose the Wheat, Lose the Weight, and Find your Path Back to Health, (Rodale 2011)

by William Davis, MD. Dr. Davis includes a vast list of health conditions related to wheat consumption, from acid reflux, ADD, ADHD, obesity, cholesterol, cardiac diseases, joint pain, mental fog, diabetes, migraines and so many more that the list is astonishing.

Quoting from his book, “Wheat is the Enron of the food world, the tobacco industry all over again.” His book is packed full of information revealing the colossal impact this mantra of “eat more healthy whole grain” has had worldwide.

The initial campaign of wheat hybridizing

was headed by Dr. Borlaug for a noble cause to reduce world hunger. For his efforts, he gained several prestigious awards. Unfortunately, at the time, the technology of genetic alterations, modifications and the forward thinking of how the new wheat would affect human health were not as advanced as they are today. However, information did develop showing how the new wheat was nutritionally adverse to our health. In fact, according to Dr. Davis, it’s the “biggest health blunder ever made in the history of nutritional advice”.

Remember the tobacco industry cover up, where the addicting effects of nicotine was known by a group of scientists yet the tobacco companies concealed the report intentionally? We are reliving this experience with wheat in tobacco’s place.

“Food scientists stumbled on the appetite stimulating effects of the gliadin protein in wheat over 25 years ago.” Yet, the promotion and propaganda continues because of the huge profit our sickness produces to those investing in the campaign. In the past, you would find wheat in the obvious products such as cakes, rolls, breads, etc. Today, you will find it in nearly everything. All canned, packaged, and frozen foods have some

Chiropractic Today Total Natural Health

Ditch the Wheat and Regain Your Health sort of wheat filler in them. The new wheat strain containing gliadin protein is filler that adds 440 additional calories we consume every day. If a person consumes these types of foods for an entire year, one can gain up to 45 additional pounds per year!

It’s no wonder why an increase in obesity, diabetes, cardiovascular disease and other health conditions have surged in this nation and worldwide.

Dr. Davis studied how wheat affected the blood sugar values of his patients. He was stunned to discover how one slice of whole-wheat toast raised the blood Glycemic index (GI) to 72 and a tablespoon of sugar raised it to 59. The Glycemic index means the extent to which a particular food increases the blood sugar relative to glucose. The higher the blood sugar glucose rises, the higher the blood insulin level goes. Essentially, the lower the GI values, the better for your health the food item is for you. It is important to note that different studies reveal the GI of sugar can range from 55 to 65. Also note that 12-grain or multigrain breads that contain more fiber have lower GI values typically in the range of 50 to 55.

So, where do we go from here? It’s an absolute must to become informed and

proactive in protecting your health. Don’t become a statistic. Move forward toward living a wellness-oriented lifestyle including the top five basics I have written about over the years.

Maximize on the Big Five to reclaim or enhance your health and your families by being strong in your faith, eating God’s foods abundantly, exercising your heart and body daily, protecting your mind and expanding your knowledge, and equally important, maintain a healthy spine and nervous system so that all systems function at their fullest capacity.

There’s no time like the present to engage in living life wide open. It’s summertime, a great time to develop healthy habits and routines. Kids are out of school, and getting creative in the kitchen is easier than in a rushed school schedule. Clean eating sites with delicious recipes are already on my website www.Chiropractictoday.com under the “Doc’s Faves” tab. You’ll also find exercise links and shopping links for hard to find food items, etc. We have additional information on Pinterest as well.

Keep in mind, life is not a dress rehearsal. Let’s strive for health because the alternative occurs without pursuit. Let me know how I can help.

420 Inverness Corners Birmingham, AL 35242

(205) 991-3511

www.ChiropracticToday.com

280Living.com

June 2013 • 21

Fathers seek to leave legacy using written word determined to leave something special for his wife and child since he would not be there to watch his son grow up. He decided The Rev. Mark Puckett believes to write a series of letters. After his death, the most important area where a dad his wife, family and friends read one of the should strive not to fail is in building letters at his funeral. relationships.

“It was a powerful, 13-page letter that “It’s hard to tell a guy who has a left everyone there moved and in tears,” wife and kids with a stable job and Puckett said. “The men in our church, a nice house that he has a need in including me, thought, if we were in that life,” said the pastor of Morningstar same situation, what would we do?”

United Methodist Church in Soon after, Puckett stumbled across a Chelsea. “What we found is that a man from Texas named Greg Vaughn who lot of relationships with dads and founded the ministry Letters from Dad. their loved ones are lacking.”

Vaughn has written a series of books that In Puckett’s dad’s generation, the came from his experience and memories Baby Boomers, fathers showed love from his father and started a curriculum by providing for their families, he said. for men to write letters.

He thinks that form of a father is an The first time Puckett ran the ministry, Americanized version of the dad’s 37 men in his congregation improved their role. Adding to that, he sees how TV marriages and relationships tremendously shows and commercials portray dads through it, he said. as morons.

“This is something that will forever “Bill Cosby was one of the last dads change your life,” he said. “Any guy that on TV that had some wisdom to him, holds his loved ones dear to his heart but and since then we’ve lost that,” he said. struggles in showing that emotion will “We wanted to create an environment benefit from this ministry.” that teaches dads to not only provide Puckett said all men, if they’re honest for their families, but to also instruct with themselves, want to leave a legacy and lead.” behind them. Some men leave legacies To confront this culture definition with a nice house or a vintage car. He of fatherhood, Puckett started a Letters thinks those are all great and meaningful from Dad Ministry at his church last things, but they are nothing like the written year. Over the course of 12 weeks, a words a dad can leave. group of men meet four times to spell Mark Puckett, pictured with his family, started a Letters To learn more about Letters to Dad out their thoughts to their loved ones from Dad ministry at Morningstar United Methodist ministry, visit graceproductscorp.com/ in letters.

Church in Chelsea. lettersfromdad/index.php. Morningstar will It was a personal experience of a friend of Puckett’s, then 28, that inspired him to him seven months to live if he went through the wrap up its session of the ministry this month and plans to offer another session at a later date. For start Letters to Dad. The friend had contracted a most intensive treatment.

After the father heard the news, he was more visit morningstarumc.co or call 678-2572. rare and deadly form of cancer. His doctor gave

By NATHAN KELLY

The Letters The foundation of each of the Letters from Dad is based the “five pillars of manhood.”

1. Blessing Letter It is designed for the spouse or the most important relationship in a man’s life.

2. Blessing of a Child It is intended to show a father’s children how much they mean to the dad.

3. Letter of Gratitude to Parents or Guardian Figure Puckett said he’s met men who never got to tell their parents how strong of a role they played in their lives. The letter is often as important as the letter to a wife or children, he said.

4. Sago Mine Letter Named after the Sago Mine tragedy that happened in West Virginia in 2006, the purpose behind the fourth letter is to say everything you would want loved ones to know in 19 minutes. When the miners had only 19 minutes of breathable air left, they wrote letters to their loved ones.

5. Lifetime Letter The final piece is kept until the man dies so he can add memories made with family and friends throughout the remainder of his life .

22 • June 2013

280 Living

School House

Students tackle global issues

Berry student wins art contest

Berry Middle School student Jade Jolly was recently named winner of the 2013 Alabama Pharmacy Association Poison Prevention Art Contest. Jade received a $100 cash prize, and her art will go on to compete at the national level. Runners up in the contest were Maggie Baldwin and Sarah Gray. Pictured from left are: art teacher Carolyn Warren; Gray; Baldwin; Berry Principal Dr. Kathleen Wheaton; Jolly; and Samford University professor Dr. Marshall Cates.

Sixth, seventh and eighth grade Liberty Park Middle School students participate at the 22nd Junior United Nations Assembly.

Recently, 27 Liberty Park middle school students participated in the 22nd Junior United Nations Assembly.

Sixth grade teams represented the countries of Kenya and Colombia. The Kenyan topic was worldwide water and sanitation problem, and the Colombia topic was child soldiers.

Seventh and eighth grade teams represented the countries of Estonia, Thailand and Ireland. The Estonia topic was decreasing school dropout rates. The Thailand topic was protecting the endangered Maylayan Tigers and the Ireland topic was the worldwide child abuse problem.

Students worked in teams to write resolutions, persuasive speeches and 30-second summaries. They also designed costumes, made flags and created display

boards to showcase their country and their country’s problem. The Assembly was held at Birmingham-Southern College.

Sixth grade participants on the Kenya team were: Frances Fowler, Alison Levine, Elizabeth Meeks, Robyn Sanders, Arlana Spencer, Beth Studdard and Grace Uldrich. Sixth grade participants on the Colombia team were: Bryce Hutchinson, Whit McDaniel, Campbell Miller, Eric Schroeder and Ian Schultz.

Seventh and eighth grade participants were: Ireland – Rachael Brooks, Chandler Clemmons, Bess Gordon, Nate Gordon and Ellie Wright; Thailand – Caitlin Crane, Grayson Gale, Lauren Laughlin, Kanely Lemke and Alayna Priebe; Estonia – Laurel Coomes, Emma Fox, Ella Guven, Samantha Jesse and Kaitlyn Munger.

Growing opportunities at Mt Laurel In April, Mt Laurel Elementary celebrated Earth Day by selling Seeds for Nooks. For $2 each, students were able to buy a packet of grass seed. Each class went out to Mt Laurel’s new play field across from the school throughout the day and planted their seeds. The money raised will be used to purchase Nooks for the classrooms. Mt Laurel was able to raise $620.80 from this fundraiser.

Be sure to check out the school’s new play field. The grass is already starting to grow!

Mt Laurel kindergarten student Lissy O’Kelley plants her “Seeds for Nooks” out on the school’s new play field.

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OMHS marketing students travel to Anaheim, Auburn Nine Oak Mountain High School students recently attended the International DECA Career Development Conference in Anaheim, Calif.

DECA is an association for marketing students. Six OMHS students participated

in Hospitality Services, Sports and Entertainment and Travel and Tourism competitions while three students attended the Leadership Development Academy.

Oak Mountain High School’s DECA advisor is Sandra Gallups.

Oak Mountain High School’s DECA chapter poses with Auburn’s mascot, “Aubie,” at JordanHare Stadium on a sports marketing field trip. Students toured the stadium and Auburn Arena and learned about the many career opportunities in the sports marketing industry.

Garrett Cleveland, Theron Anderson, Lisa Patel, Ashton Norton, Austin Pitchford, Jackson Singleton, Hannah Danho, Mallory Rowe and John Barth in Anaheim.

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280 Living

Sports Spain Park honors spring signees

SPHS spring signees for 2013 are Jordan Ames, Amanda Ballew, Haven Eddy, Trey Hawker, Hannah Hudson, Jalon Hollie, Thomas Laney, Will McDonald, Ben Olinger and Grant Veteto.

Photo by Jeff Thompson.

In May, 10 Spain Park High School student athletes signed letters of intent to continue their athletic careers at the collegiate level. SPHS recognized the students with a Spring Signing ceremony at the school.

Signees

ff Jalon Hollie: Football, BirminghamSouthern College

ff Hannah Hudson: Lacrosse, BirminghamSouthern College

ff Thomas Laney: Golf, Limestone College ff Will McDonald: Baseball, Florida Gulf Coast University

ff Ben Olinger: Football, Jacksonville State

ff Jordan Ames: Swimming, BirminghamSouthern College

ff Amanda Ballew: Softball, BirminghamSouthern College ff Haven Eddy: Track and Field, Belmont University ff Trey Hawker: Baseball, Huntingdon College

University ff Grant Veteto: Baseball. Huntingdon College

At the ceremony, Spain Park Athletic Director Patrick Kellogg encouraged signing seniors to thank their families for support, often return to their alma mater and always remember they were Jaguars first.

Westminster track wins first state title The boys and girls track and field teams at Westminster School at Oak Mountain, the fourth smallest school in the state, have amassed five runnerup state trophies in the five years they have been a part of the Alabama High School Athletic Association. That all changed on a Saturday in May in Selma when Westminster girls track team captured its first AHSAA Championship trophy.

The team was lead by junior Katie Brooks Boone, who won the 100-meter, 200-meter, 300-meter hurdles (all school records) and placed second in the 400-meter. Eighth grader Maddie Hoagland won the 1600 meter and 3,200 meter, while senior Hope Thompson captured the gold in the triple jump.

The Westminster 4x800meter relay team of Morgan Reynolds, Sarah Kate Lipperd, Camilla Lemons and Maddie Hoagland won the gold and came within three seconds of breaking the 28-year record.

Other medalist were Alice Boone, who placed second in the 100-meter hurdles, and Morgan Reynolds, who placed third

Westminster girls track team members with their state championship trophy.

in the 800-meter run.

The team scored 120.33 points on their way to upending the reign of Cedar Bluff. The girls scored no less than 8 points in every

running event and scored 13.33 points in the field.

The team is coached

by Dale Carrell, Gregg Thompson, Leslie Callahan and Sissy Boone.

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By Tammy Rogers, Pharmacist What’s that in the air? I know you’ve seen it on your car, boat and driveway!

It appears every year about this time, and it causes many of us to suffer. The symptoms start with runny, itchy eyes, sneezing and maybe even coughing.

Sometimes the symptoms are so severe that you end up at the pharmacy counter or doctor’s office.

Many of you may recognize the symptoms and know that it’s seasonal allergy time. While we love spring and all the beautiful flowers that come with it, many folks experience severe allergies during this time of the year.

Today, there are many over the counter options to relieve your worst allergy symptoms.

Antihistamines and decongestants can help block pollen receptors and relieve congestion. There are many antihistamine options to choose from today, including Benadryl, Claritin and Zyrtec just to name a few. Claritin and Zyrtec relieve symptoms and are marketed to be non-sedating, while Benadryl, which is considered to be the gold standard, does cause sedation. All these products will help to relieve runny noses, itchy eyes and sneezing.

Products containing pseudoephedrine are available in the pharmacy without a prescription and help to relieve congestion. Sudafed is a popular decongestant that helps to relieve nasal congestion.

While nasal decongestant sprays such as Afrin and Dristian can help with nasal stuffiness and congestion on a short-term basis, these products should never be used for more than 3 days in a row. Using them for longer can lead to dependence and worsening of symptoms.

Nasal sprays containing saline, such as Ocean, or Cromolyn Sodium, can relieve symptoms and are safe to use everyday.

If you are experiencing seasonal allergy symptoms and aren’t sure which products are best for you, please stop by today and let me help you love spring again!

BEAUMONT PHARMACY &

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264 Inverness Ctr. Dr. • 205-991-7171 WWW.BEAUMONTPHARMACY.COM

June 2013 • 25

280Living.com

157 Resource Center Parkway Suite 102 Behind Logan’s Roadhouse on 280 Your source for teams sports

205-981-0291

University in August to study pre-physical therapy.

With a 4.37 GPA, what’s your study secret?

Time management and planning ahead for practice and other things that share my time. Also knowing when to move on, because not every subject can be my best subject. If I know a test or quiz is going to be difficult, I make the time to study because the rewards are worth it.

What’s your method for success on the field?

Keeping my head on a swivel! You’ve always got to be looking out for that next big opportunity and be ready at any second to make the play that your team needs. Also, always knowing exactly where you’re going before you get there. Everything’s got to be calculated and 100 percent or it isn’t worth the energy.

Christine Haley

When you’re 50 and you look back at yourself as a teenager, what characteristic will you remember most.

Resilience, almost to a fault. I don’t ever want to sit back and watch, and I can’t stand to leave any unfinished business. I don’t settle, which sometimes makes things difficult. The way I see it, anything worth doing is worth doing 110 percent.

Senior, Oak Mountain High School The 280 Living Athlete of the Month for June is Oak Mountain High School senior Christine Haley, a standout player on the Oak Mountain Varsity Women’s Lacrosse Team. Christine started all four years for Varsity Eagles lacrosse and served as team captain the past two seasons In 2013, Christine led the team to a 12-1 season and capped her high school career goal total at 321 – the highest in Alabama history for a single player.

She was recently selected as a first-team U.S. Lacrosse All American at the position of attack, and she was also selected to the first-string Alabama All-Star team at the same position.

Both are for achievements on the field, and this

What’s on your iPod? Country music – especially Tim McGraw, Luke Bryan and Hunter Hayes was Christine’s fourth year in a row of being selected to both.

Christine is also exceptional off the field. She was projected to graduate with a 4.37 overall GPA at OMHS. While at Oak Mountain, she participated in the following

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activities and organizations: Peer Assistants; National Honor’s Society; Spanish Honor Society; Mu Alpha Theta; yearbook staff; Student Government Association; and Fellowship of Christian Athletes.

Christine plans to attend Auburn

If you were given $1,000,000 and forced to spend it in a day, what would you buy?

I would buy a lifetime supply of Moe’s Mexican food and as many golden retriever puppies as I could fit in my house. My parents might not be happy, but I sure would be!

26 • June 2013

280 Living TRINITY

CONTINUED from page 1 cost approximately $80 million.

Trinity has selected Brasfield & Gorrie, in strategic partnership with A.G. Gaston, to serve as construction managers for completion of the hospital. Brasfield & Gorrie served as general contractor on the hospital’s original construction more than 10 years ago.

Currently, the hospital has portions that are move-in ready. Some patient rooms and parts of the intensive care unit are complete.

However, much of the structure is only framed and will need extensive work. Granger said construction on the building could be completed in approximately two years.

Coinciding with construction of the hospital, Trinity also plans to construct an office building and parking deck at the site. Granger said all three projects would be coordinated along a similar timeline.

The relocation is projected to launch substantial economic growth in the area.

According to a 2008 study conducted by economist Keivan Deravi, Ph.D., a professor at Auburn University of Montgomery, activities related to the first year of construction and operations are expected to generate approximately 4,000 jobs, $126 million in job earnings and more than $3.1 million in tax revenues.

Deravi’s study goes on to list projections based on massive development on the Grandview campus. Within the first three years following the beginning of construction, he projected an economic impact of more than $881 million for the area. However, he said those numbers hinged on whether Trinity Medical and Daniel Corp. completed their plans for “two adjacent medical office buildings, two hotels, numerous retail operations, an office building and four parking decks.”

Calls placed to Daniel Corp. Vice-President Jim Adams, a company spokesperson, were not returned by deadline. However, Daniel Corp. indicated previously that its plans did include growing the campus to include hotels, retail and even a residential section

over the next two decades.

“I was very careful to say those numbers were predicated on Trinity,” Deravi said.

“The whole area was built with the purpose of having a hospital as an anchor, and given that an anchor will be created, there’s no question of economic drive. That’s a prime commercial area. It’s high traffic, and that building is a high prize in an area of high visibility.”

Overall, Deravi’s study indicates total municipal, county and school tax collection over a 15-year period could reach more than $227 million. Trinity projects that when development is complete, an estimated 5,500 people could be employed at Grandview, creating approximately $405 million in annual earnings for the region.

“That hospital, from the time it was built, was an amazing building,” Deravi said. “It was a purpose-built facility. It could not have been converted to a bank, a construction company’s headquarters or a mall. It was always a hospital, and that the best – if not the only – use for that building.”

Deravi said when he performed the study, which was included in Trinity’s application to the State Health Planning and Development Agency for a Certificate of Need, he used figures that indicated the economy had rebounded from the 2008 economic crisis. In the study, Deravi anticipated work would begin in 2013-2014, and Granger said because of this Trinity was not adjusting the projections.

“Any retail in and around that area will be benefitted because of our decision,” Granger said. “It becomes a domino effect. When one business sees success in an area, it attracts more customers and other businesses grow with it.”

Stephen Preston, vice president of external affairs at Brookwood Medical Center, said his hospital respects the court’s decision but remains committed to its proposed freestanding emergency department to be built near the intersection of U.S. 280 and Alabama Highway 119.

“We call on Trinity Medical Center to walk its talk by dropping their long-standing opposition to this life-saving emergency care solution on Highway 280,” Preston said.

June 2013 • 27

280Living.com BOX

CONTINUED from page 1 soccer, and we learned quickly we knew nothing about it.”

Donna said that Jonathan’s stature led his coaches to try him at goalie, and it fit him perfectly.

“He was very dominant and aggressive,” Donna said. “People were afraid of him, and he did well. We were thinking that so long as he doesn’t try any headers, he’ll be all right.”

Jonathan played keeper for the Lions through his junior season when competition from the family farm caught up to him. All those years practicing with his younger brother, Jeremy, resulted in the two being pitted against each other in tryouts for the 2007 team, which would go on to win the state championship.

Jeremy, the younger, won the job, and his mom said it made for interesting times around the house.

Donna said Jeremy did not play in goal until he was 12 years old. He and his twin brother, Justin, were playing together in the American Soccer Jets Program, and the team was trying to reach a competitive level. Only, they didn’t have a keeper.

“His coach said, ‘I’ll train with you every day,’” Donna said. “Jeremy was this big, tall, thick kid, and he said, ‘Fine.’ He went out every single day and trained with this coach, and that year they went to state finals.”

Donna said Jonathan was the tougher keep, but toughness was a Box family philosophy in the goal.

Several years ago, in a playoff game against Hoover, twins Justin and Jeremy were locked in close match. Justin, the Box family’s only nongoalie soccer star, was playing defender, and his brother was in the goal.

“One kid came down for the ball with his cleats up,” Donna said. “Jeremy went down, too, and the kid’s cleats sliced his head open.”

Donna said by the time she made it Jeremy, his head had been wrapped in gauze.

“I’m going back in, Mom,” he said, his white turban protecting the wound. “I’ve got to finish this game.”

“Baby, your head’s split open,” she replied.

Briarwood Christian School goalie Jordan Box, left, allowed only one goal through his team’s run through the AHSAA 5A State Playoffs in 2013. Photo courtesy of Donna Box.

But Jeremy wouldn’t hear it. So Donna said she conceded, but only conditionally.

“I looked at his twin (Justin) and said, ‘If you let a shot get on him, you’re going to be in so much trouble.’”

Briarwood won the game, and Jeremy went to the hospital for five staples.

Jordan, the Lions’ keeper in 2013, watched both brothers play goal while growing up. At first, he didn’t seem like a soccer player to his mom. Donna said the family watched him run across the field at 4 years old, stop and say, “I’m done.”

“I told him, ‘You’re good, but you can’t run.’”

Turns out, he wouldn’t need to. He was in the goal at the farm by age 7 and playing “World Cup” with his brothers every other day, he said. And, with the help of some “amazing coaches,” Jordan helped lead his Lions to a championship in 2013.

In May Briarwood claimed the 5A State Title by defeating St. Paul’s Episcopal from Mobile 3-0. More impressive, Jordan only allowed one goal throughout the team’s

playoff run.

Jordan credited the performance in part to the team’s goal coach, his older brother Jeremy.

“He really helped allow me to know exactly what to do,” Jordan said. “Jeremy definitely didn’t always feel like coach. We had some moments of disagreement like you’d expect with a brother, but I was glad he was there to help.”

After graduation, Jordan plans to attend Ole Miss and major in geological engineering. He said he might try to walk on to the football team as a kicker. When he does, he’ll leave Briarwood without a Box in the box for the first time in years.

“I’ve had parents tell me they don’t want their kids in the goal,” said Briarwood Head Soccer Coach Mike Wallace. “They say it’s too much pressure. That family has given me three in the last 10 years.”

Donna acknowledged it isn’t common but also said the family never planned it. If she had it her way, she’d watch her boys block penalty kicks for as long as they chose to do so.

28 • June 2013

280 Living

Faith Jones named senior pastor at Meadow Brook Baptist

Chris Jones

Meadow Brook Baptist Church named Chris Jones as its new senior pastor last month.

Jones served as the church’s youth pastor for the past two years.

Originally from Jonesboro, Ark., Jones and his wife, Ashley, moved to Birmingham in 2007 while he completed his Master of Divinity degree from Samford University’s Beeson Divinity School. They welcomed a daughter, Kinsley, in 2011.

“I am delighted that God has blessed me with the opportunity to serve as the newest pastor of Meadow Brook Baptist Church,” Jones said.

“With great joy, I anticipate the continued work and love of God in this church and in North Shelby County.”

Meadow Brook Baptist Church is a fellowship of the Southern Baptist Convention and part of the Shelby Baptist Association. The church, located at 4984 Meadow Brook Road, has been a part of the community for more than three decades.

Life Actually By Kari Kampakis

Me, my man & 15 years It all started with a pair of blue helping me see the forest through swim trunks. the trees.

The fact that he was driving a ski Did I mention we have fun boat didn’t hurt. together? That we both love I knew Harry in college, but not country music, from Willie until a year after graduation did I really Nelson and George Jones to see him. He was at the beach with his Toby Keith and Zac Brown? friends; I was there with mine. We Although we didn’t date in were all hanging out and reveling in college, I feel like I was at the the freedom of being young, carefree KA house with him because I’ve Kampakis and financially independent. heard him rehash stories with his I turned to my friend sitting by me in the fraternity brothers a million times. Their stories boat. “Harry’s hot,” I whispered. are hilarious, the kind that make you bust a gut “I know,” she whispered back. “I’ve always laughing. Seeing Harry with his buddies makes had a thing for him.” me happy because he’s so happy. Reminiscing And thus began my story with my husband, puts him in his element. on a remarkable day 18 years ago, when the Gulf At home, Harry is met by four squealing water was sparkling and perfect, and the catch of girls each weeknight when he walks in from the day was standing right in front of me. work. Our daughters race to hug him and Less than a month later, I’d realize my new divulge details of their day. They talk at once, love interest wasn’t just the catch of the day – competing for attention and elbowing each he was the catch of a lifetime. other aside as if he’s a star. I keep thinking Harry and I celebrate 15 years of marriage they’ll outgrow this red-carpet treatment, this month. He is my soul mate, my rock, my but not yet. Again, it is Harry’s patience and best friend. He’s also an incredible father, listening ears that make them eager to share. better than I ever imagined. Our daughters His smiling face is all the invitation they need. adore him, and although they’re too young to Someone once told me, “Marry the guy fully comprehend how blessed they are to have who’ll be up with you in the middle of the him, one day they’ll know. night with a sick baby.” When I fell for Harry, I Our marriage isn’t perfect. We bicker and wasn’t thinking about babies, sleep deprivation push each other’s buttons. Harry tells me or midnight meltdowns. I wasn’t looking for a when I’m unreasonable; I tell him when he’s best friend or long-term companion. I just liked insensitive. But even in chaos and rough what I saw, and I was curious to know more. patches, he has my back, and I have his. He But lucky for me, Harry has proved to be loves me like I want to be loved. the guy who sticks by me in bewitching hours; Harry has so many great qualities, but what who never left my side after our first child was I love most are his patience and willingness to born because I was petrified; who does more listen. Harry is never too busy to listen, even than his fair share with the kids so I can write when I’m tired of listening to myself. And and pursue my dreams. While no one’s perfect, because he listens, he knows my heart. He I can say he’s perfect for me. When I’m with can counsel me through any decision or issue, him, I like myself better. I feel safe, accepted

Starnes Publishing

Winner of 26 awards in the 2013 Alabama Press Association Better Newspaper and Advertising Contests.

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and understood.

And if I’ve learned anything in 15 years, it’s the power of one kind act. Because when Harry makes a kind gesture – fixing me a grilled cheese sandwich after church, bringing me a cup of coffee on Saturday morning – I want to reciprocate. And when I do, he reciprocates back. Our marriage works best with this dynamic in motion, when we both leave pride at the door and serve each other. It doesn’t take anything grand or dramatic - just little reminders that we care.

I’ve also learned to keep our best memories alive and to stay strong as a twosome because one day it’ll be just us again. We’ll be back to living for each other’s company, and I don’t want to be twiddling my thumbs thinking, “I’m lost without the kids. What next?” I want to be high-fiving Harry and saying, “Alleluia, honey, we did it! That was exhausting but fun! Now, onto our golden years. What first?”

My dream is for us to enjoy another honeymoon period, to catch the bliss of a second wind.

I still have Harry’s blue swim trunks from that day. They’re old and faded but vibrant in memory. I love to remember my first impressions, and how I felt like I knew him before I did. I think that’s what a soul mate is, someone your heart recognizes inexplicably and who feels like they’ve been there all along, living in the wings of your life and waiting for the right moment to make the entrance that changes everything.

Kari Kubiszyn Kampakis is a Birmingham mom of four with a background in PR, writing and photography. For weekly inspiration, you can “like” her new Facebook page at “Kari Kampakis, Writer” or visit her blog at karikampakis.com. Email Kari at kari@ karikampakis.com.

June 2013 • 29

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Opinion My South By Rick Watson

That’s Life By Paul Johnson

Encyclopedia

In memory

older brother and sister were in I was curious about something high school. today, so I whipped out my I know my mom thought long iPhone, touched the Wikipedia and hard about what it would take icon and had the answer within to pay for the books, but all three a matter of seconds. of us were in school at the time That experience sent my and education was very important mind ambling down a path it to her. had not been down in years Apparently the salesman — my family’s first set of knocked the ball out of the park encyclopedias.

Watson because she agreed to buy the books.

I learned to spell encyclopedia She paid them off in installments with at a fairly early age. I didn’t watch a lot of TV, but I did watch Jiminy Cricket on Disney. I can money she made washing and ironing clothes still recall the little tune he sang “ENCY — for people around town.

My dad had a job, but it took all the money CLO — PEDIA.” In the early 1960s, a salesman knocked on he made to keep us fed so Mama paid for most our door in West Pratt. He was selling World of the extras by doing laundry.

A few days later the salesman delivered the Book Encyclopedias.

Not many salesmen got to the front porch, books. I can remember sitting on the kitchen much less got a chance to sit in our living room table pouring through the pages, traveling and drink a glass of sweet tea. But this one did. to places I had never imagined — London, He gave his spiel, and the words he used Prague and Minnesota.

I also learned about other things too. Like must have resonated with my mom, because he got a chance to get to second base — actually Aardvarks —who knew there was an animal with such a strange name? showing us the books.

The pages were thin as a whisper, and The salesman laid a cloth on our kitchen table and handled the books as if they were they smelled of knowledge. In a way, fine crystal. He laid a few out so we could those books were like the World Wide Web get a better look. They were bound in red without the porn.

A few years ago when we had to sell my leather, and the edges of the pages were mom’s house, I went through looking for the trimmed in gold.

My mother squeezed her dollars so World Book Encyclopedias, but I couldn’t tightly that George Washington thought he find them.

I’m guessing she gave them to someone had asthma.

The kids left the kitchen so that Mama could who had kids that might need them. I’d talk to the salesman about the price. I don’t like to think that whoever wound up with remember how much they were, but even then, the books got a chance to travel to places they were very expensive. I was nine, and my they’d never imagined.

I love to read. Because I love to of living, He has led me into read, I read a lot. Because I love the dangerous place of wild and to read, I am exposed to several terrifying wonder-full faith.” different authors. But there are -Dangerous Wonder some I return to time and time Calvin Miller: (1937-Aug again, to read something new 19, 2012): “Oftentimes Love is they have written or to return to so poorly packaged that when something I have read before, we have sold everything to needing a gentle reminder. This buy it, we cry in finding all our past April, the world lost one of substance gone and nothing in Johnson my beloved writers. Last August, the tinsel and the ribbon. Hate another one had passed. In this article, I dresses well to please the buyer.” -The Singer would like to share four quotes from four of Brennan Manning (1934-April 12, 2013): my favorites who are no longer with us in life “The faith that animates the Christian but whose influence may be felt in word. community is less a matter of believing in Henri Nouwen (1932-1996): “Becoming the existence of God than a practical trust in the Beloved means letting the truth of our his loving care under whatever pressure. The Belovedness become enfleshed in everything stakes here are enormous, for I have not said we think, say or do. It entails a long and in my heart, ‘God exists,’ until I have said, ‘I painful process of appropriation or, better, trust you.’” -Ruthless Trust incarnation. As long as ‘being the Beloved’ Larry Crabb (1944-): “Some of your fondest is little more than a beautiful thought or a dreams will shatter, and you will be tempted lofty idea that hangs above my life to keep to lose hope. I will seem to you callous or, me from becoming depressed, nothing really worse, weak — unresponsive to your pain. changes. What is required is to become the You will wonder if I cannot do anything or Beloved in the commonplaces of my daily simply will not. When all this comes to pass, existence and, bit by bit, to close the gap My word to you is this: Do not lose hope. I that exists between what I know myself to guarantee you the power to please me, not to be and the countless specific realities of have a good time. But pleasing me will bring everyday life.” -Life of the Beloved you great joy.” -Shattered Dreams Mike Yaconelli (1942-2003): “Five years I would welcome you to find a book or two ago I decided to start listening again to the of these writers this summer, and find grace, voice of Jesus, and my life hasn’t been the hope, inspiration and empowerment. same since. He has not been telling me what Paul Johnson is a professionally licensed to do, He has been telling me how much he marriage and family therapist, professionally loves me. He has not corrected my behavior, licensed counselor and nationally certified He has been leading me into His arms. And counselor. You may reach him at 807-6645 or He has not protected me from the dangers lifepracticalcounseling@gmail.com

30 •June 2013

Music Listings Courtyard Oyster Bar & Grill 280 Mondays: Dj Johnny D Tuesdays: Dj KOP May 1: Matt Hill & Sean Bunn / Whiskey Dix May 2: Dj Chuck J May 3: Southern By Grace / SK5 May 4: Bottle Rocket May 5: Jager Muffin / Hutch / Secondhand Jones May 8: Matt Hill & Sean Bunn May 9: Erica May 10: Dixieland Disciples / Matt Hill band May 11: Sexy Tractor May 12: Matt Broach / Aaron Blades May 15: Matt Hill & Sean Bunn / Whiskey Dix May 16: Dj Chuck J May 17: Pharmband / SK5 May 18: Stomp Hills May 19: Patrick / Whiskey Dix / Jager Muffin May 23: Erica / Heath May 24: Voodoo Jones / Matt Hill band May 25: Secondhand Jones / Heath May 26: Paul Sisson / Aaron Blades / Heath May 29: Matt Hill & Sean Bunn / Whiskey Dix May 30: Dj Chuck J May 31: Aaron Blades band / SK5

Community Calendar 280 Events June 1: Giving Hands 5K Starfish Strut. Veteran’s Park, 8 a.m.

One-mile run to support Giving Hands. Visit givinghandsandhope.org.

June 2: 117th Homecoming Service. Cahaba United Methodist Church, 3552 Cahaba Valley Road. 11 a.m. worship service followed by covered dish supper.

June 5: Medicare Educational Meetings. St. Vincent’s One Nineteen, 10 a.m.-noon. Free of charge. Register at 1-888-222-6165.

June 8: St. Vincent’s One Ninteen Block Party and Health Festival. St. Vincent’s One Nineteen, 5-8 p.m. Free of charge. Features carnival atmosphere, live music and health screenings. Call 1-888-222-6165.

June 11: Blood Pressure/Body Mass Index Screening. St. Vincent’s One Nineteen, 8-11:30 a.m.

Grey Bar

5426 Highway 280 874-6361 June 6: Jared White June 7: 90 Proof June 8: Outshine June 13: Jared White June 14: Atomic Radio June 20: Jared White June 21: Dance DJ Dance June 22: Outshine June 27: Jared White June 28: Rusty Busters June 29: 90 Proof July 4: Jared White

280 Living

June 11: Breakfast and Buddies Open House Event. Inverness Fire Station Park, 9-10:30 a.m. Hosted by Moms Club of Birmingham-Inverness. Email momsclubinverness@gmail.com.

Nineteen, 8 a.m.-noon. Class for children to learn how to cook healthy foods. $175/ session. Half day program with Camp One Nineteen available for $17/day. Call 4086550 and apply at onenineteen.com.

June 7: “Ice Age Continental Drift” at Veterans Park. Follow @ BYMovieParties on Twitter.

June 20: Coping Skills. St Vincent’s One Nineteen, 12:30-2:30 p.m. The class will cover pain management techniques for expectant mothers during delivery. $10/ couple. Register at 939-7878.

June 13-15: 34th Annual National Sacred Harp Singing Convention. First Christian Church, 9:30 a.m.-2:30 p.m. Free admission. Visit mcsr.olemiss.edu/~mudws/national.

June 21-22: QuiltFest 2013. Oak Mountain Middle School, 10 a.m.-5 p.m.

Event includes a quilt show, vendors, demonstrations, door prizes, and a silent auction to benefit Alzheimer’s of Central Alabama. $7 for 2-day admission, free for 5-under. Visit bhamquilters.com.

June 14: “Escape from Planet Earth” at Veterans Park. Follow @ BYMovieParties on Twitter.

June 15: Steel Strides 5K. Benefits the Muscular Dystrophy Association.

Veterans Park. $25 registration. Visit active. com.

June 17-21, 24-28: Thyme to Cook for Kids. St. Vincent’s One

June 21: “The Odd Life of Timothy Green” at Veterans Park. Follow @BYMovieParties on Twitter.

June 28: “Hotel Transylvania” at Veterans Park. Follow @ BYMovieParties on Twitter.

Birmingham Bake & Cook Call 980-3661 to register. All classes 6:30-9 p.m. and $40 unless otherwise listed.

June 4: Dinner and a Movie: Big Night! 6-9 p.m.

June 6: “Let’s Start the Summer Right” Small Bites Menu Blow-Out June 11: Skillet Suppers Shrimp & Grits, $45.

June 13: “Best of Summer” Fruit Desserts June 18: Dinner with Dad, $45.

June 20: Cast Iron Cooking for a Summer Season June 25: Knife Skills I

Community Events June 1: Juneteenth Culture Fest. Kelly Ingram Park, 11 a.m.-8 p.m.

Free music, food, games and entrance pass to the Civil Rights Museum. Call 328-9696.

June 1: Alabaster CityFest. Free day of live music, including a 5K fun run.

Visit alabastercityfest.com.

June 2: 7th Annual Preserve Jazz Festival. Outdoor jazz festival at The Preserve in Hoover presented by Tom Williams Lexus. Grammy Award-winning Spyro Gyra is the headliner. $40 general

admission. 3 p.m. Visit preservejazz.com.

7:30 p.m. Free Admission. Call 631-4680.

June 2: Vulcan’s 109th Birthday Bash. Vulcan Park, noon4 p.m. A festive outdoor community celebration for the whole family. $3 admission, free for 4-under and Vulcan Members. Visit visitvulcan.com.

June 8: 3rd Annual Black Creek Arts Festival. Art show with local artists’ work, musical entertainment and children’s arts activities. Free admission. 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Call 538-3676.

June 5-8: Miss Alabama Pageant. Leslie S. Wright Fine Arts Center, 7:30 p.m. Call 871-6276.

June 8: Alabama Symphony Orchestra Concert. Railroad Park, 8 p.m. Pre-concert picnic on the lawn at

June 13: Girls Night Out Operation Beach Ready. Fashion shows, food, local vendors, music and more at The Summit Club. $30. 6-10 p.m. Call 567-4668.

June 13: ArtCard: Porch Party and Blind Art Sale. Live

music, food and art sale benefitting Oasis Counseling. $25. 6-9 p.m. Visit oasiscounseling.org/artcard.

June 15: Day on the River. Free environmental education festival for children grades three to six at King’s Bend on the Locus Fork River. 9 a.m.-3 p.m. Call 919-6231.

June 15: Caribbean Festival.

Boutwell Auditorium, 11 a.m.-4 p.m.

Central Alabama Caribbean American Organization presents a day of fun Caribbean style. Free. Call 383-6645.

June 2013 • 31

280Living.com June 15: Dixie Reptile Show. BJCC, 9 a.m.-3 p.m. Adults $4, children $1. Visit dixiereptileshow.com.

on Saturday at 9 a.m. Benefits Birmingham AIDS Outreach. $50. Call 322-4197.

June 16: Bird House Extavaganza.

Ruffner Mountain Nature Center, 1-5 p.m. Visit ruffnermountain.org.

June 21-22: Rock the South 2013.

Heritage Park, 3 p.m. on Friday and noon on Saturday. Music festival celebrating recovery from the 2011 tornados, featuring Sara Evans, The Band Perry, Scotty McCreery, Hank Williams, Jr. and more.

June 22: Smith Lake Poker Run. Registration Party on Friday evening and poker run

There will also be a meet and greet with SEC football legends, hosted by Jay Barker. Two-day admission $49, one-day admission $30. Visit rockthesouth.com.

June 21-23: State Games XXXI. The largest amateur multi-sporting event in the state, featuring Olympic-style events for Alabama’s youth. Visit alagames.com.

Library Events awarded to each age group. Registration required.

June 12: North Shelby Baptist Puppet Team Show. City Hall Chamber, 2 p.m.

June 20 and 27: Book to Movie Nights.

5:30 p.m.

Story-Time Programming

June 24: Under the Hood. 6 p.m.

Mondays, June 3, 10, and 17: Toddler Tales. 9:30 and 10:30 a.m. Ages 19-36 months.

Registration required.

Contact Kate at 439-5512 or nsyouth@shelbycounty-al.org for more information.

Tuesdays, June 11 and 25: Baby Tales.

9:30. Ages birth to 18 months. Registration required.

Mt Laurel Public Library

Wednesdays: Mr. Mac (Storyteller Extraordinaire!). 10:30 and 11:30 a.m. All ages. No registration.

Wednesdays, June 5 and 19: Toddler Tales. 10 a.m. Ages 36 months and younger.

Registration begins two weeks prior to each storytime.

June 26: Starshine Faces. City Hall Chamber, 2 p.m.

North Shelby Library Special Programming Mondays: Movie Afternoon. Preschool movies shown at 1 p.m., and movie matinees shown at 3 p.m. All ages. No registration. Snacks served.

Tuesdays: Crafts. 2-2:30 p.m. All ages.

Registration begins one week prior to craft date.

June 6: Roger Day. 11 a.m. and 1 p.m.

Performance from world renowned children’s musical artist Roger Day. All ages. No registration.

June 7: Chuck E. Cheese Fundraiser.

Chuck E. Cheese on Highway 280, 3-9 p.m.

Celebrate the start of summer reading and help the library raise money.

June 13: Mobile Dairy Classroom. 10 a.m.

Learn all about milk, ice cream, and other foods that come from dairy cows. All ages. No registration.

June 13: Ice Cream Social. 6-6:45 p.m.

Bring the whole family and make your own sundaes.

All ages. No registration.

June 20: Blazer’s Animals. 11 a.m. All ages.

No registration.

Thursdays, June 6, 20 and 27: P.J. Story Time. 7 p.m. All ages. No registration.

For more, contact the Children’s Department at 439-5504 or northshelbyyouth@gmail.com or visit northshelbylibrary.org/children.html.

Teen Happenings Fridays: Gaming. 2-5:45 p.m.

June 3: Teen Summer Reading Kick-off.

Showing of Star Trek: Into Darkness at the Alabaster AmStar 14. 6:30 p.m. Admission for teens provided.

Parents and siblings are welcome to attend for $10 each. Participants must register in the department between May 20-31. Payment for non-teens is due at registration.

Story-Time Programming

Wednesdays, June 5 and 19: StoryTime with Ms. Kristy. 11 a.m. All ages. No registration.

Summer Reading Programming Thursdays, June 6 and 20: Craft Days.

2-4 p.m.

Wednesdays, June 12 and 26: Create fun items at the library. 11 a.m.-2 p.m. All ages with parent help. Registration required.

June 13: Ice Cream Social. 2-4 p.m.

June 28: McWane Center Diggin’ Dinos.

2 p.m. All ages. Registration required.

June 6: Lego Mania. 6 p.m.

June 10: Chef U with Angela Schmidt.

6 p.m.

June 13: Anime Night. 6 p.m.

June 27: Spy School. 1 p.m. Learn how to be a spy. Registration begins June 1.

June 17: 6th Annual Fear Factor Food Challenge. 6 p.m.

June 28: Lego Competition. Compete in original Lego building competitions, with prizes

June 20: Young Adult Writing Group.

4:30 p.m.

Childcare Worker:

Sunday and Wednesday.

References and background check are required.

St. Catherine’s Episcopal Church, Hwy 39, Chelsea, AL. • 205-618-8367 or rector@StCatherinesAL.com

Comfort Keepers

Chelsea Public Library June 19: Dr. Magic. City Hall Chamber, 2 p.m.

Classifieds

Adult Programming June 18: Uptown Art. 6-8 p.m. Create a piece of art with the help of a professional. $5 cost. Registration required.

Contact the Mt Laurel Library at 991-1660 or mtlaurellibrary@gmail.com for more information.

is currently hiring quality caregivers.

205-981-1800

HELP WANTED

FULL OR PART TIME SALES ASSOCIATE. HOURS AVAIL: 12-6: SUN-SAT Apply Rogers Trading Company, Hwy. 280, resource center parkway: send resume or application to jenrtc@aol. com No phone inquiries accepted

Part-time Help Needed Sales and Merchandising Computer knowledge needed.

Some Saturdays Plain Jane’s Women & Children Shop Lee Branch Shopping Center 205-991-1995

Home Instead Senior Care Looking for part time CAREGivers for Non-medical in home care.

Apply at: www.homeinstead.com/bham 205.822.1915

Help wanted

Meadow Brook Animal Clinic is looking to fill an eventual full time position. Experience is helpful but not required. It would be preferable if you lived close to the 35242 zip code, but we will not exclude any qualified applicant. Please email us at mac7019@gmail. com and we will send you an application.

32 • June 2013

280 Living